Back

On'yomi
キン・ゴン
KIN / GON
Kun'yomi
こと
koto

harp · koto

Details

Strokes12
Frequency#1591
Radicaljade(5)

Stroke Order

Loading...
Strokes12

Component Breakdown

=

玨 + 今

Cultural Context

Etymology

Composed of two jades and thread. Beautiful sound like jade.

Symbolism

Koto, music, art. Represents Japanese traditional instrument.

Words & Expressions

Four-Character Compounds

琴瑟相和

きんしつそうわ

pair of persons (especially a married couple) being intimate and harmonious; being happily married; pair of persons (especially a married couple) being intimate and harmonious

Proverbs & Idioms

琴瑟相和す

きんしつあいわす

The koto and zither harmonize

A metaphor for a happy marriage

Frequently Asked Questions

What does 琴 mean in Japanese?

琴 means harp, koto.

How do you read 琴?

On'yomi: キン、ゴン (KIN, GON). Kun'yomi: こと (koto).

How many strokes does 琴 have?

琴 has 12 strokes. Its radical is 玉 (jade).

Is 琴 a good kanji for a tattoo?

Yes. 琴 (harp, koto) has a clear positive meaning and no embarrassing alternate readings, making it a solid tattoo choice.