Way in Japanese
"way" in Japanese, with the kanji that carry the meaning.
式
shiki
6 Japanese kanji carry the meaning "way". The most common choice is shown first.
Top pick
way, path, the Way
Reading: dou
12 strokes · wisdom, peaceful, mysterious
Where it comes from
Composed of '辶' (advance) and '首' (head). The direction one heads toward - the path.
What it carries
Life's path, way of discipline, path to truth. Fundamental concept in Japanese culture: martial arts, tea ceremony, calligraphy.
Related kanji for "way"
way
you · wisdom
Combines 'tree' (木) with 'sheep' (羊, implying beauty), from the beautiful appearance of trees. Developed into meanings of appearance, state, and honorific usage.
way
to · wisdom
Composed of advance and surplus. Advancing on surplus road.
way
teki · wisdom
Combines 'movement' (辶) with 'reason' (由), representing guiding along paths and enlightening.
the other way(also: armpit, another place, flank)
kyou · wisdom
Combines 'flesh' (月) with 'sandwich' (夾), representing body parts sandwiched from both sides—armpits.
way of doing(also: rut, wheel, track)
ki · wisdom
Composed of vehicle and nine. Track of vehicle.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Japanese kanji for way?
The most common kanji for "way" is 道, read as dou. It means way, path, the Way. Related kanji: 様 (way), 途 (way), 迪 (way), 脇 (the other way), 軌 (way of doing).
How many strokes does 道 have?
道 has 12 strokes.