Today’s Kanji – Fire 火 (hi) – Learn Japanese

The kanji for fire 火is pronounced “hi” in Japanese. It consists of three strokes, which represent the sparks and the movement of the fire. When you see this kanji, you can easily imagine the intensity and heat that fire can generate.

In Japanese culture, fire has a prominent place. From ancient Shinto rituals to festival celebrations, fire plays a central role in many traditions. For example, the Omizutori festival at Todaiji Temple in Nara includes a fire ceremony where monks run the length of a balcony holding burning torches. It is an impressive spectacle and symbolizes purification and renewal.

Fire is also associated with passion and enthusiasm in Japan. A person with “spirit of fire” (火の気, hi no ki ) is said to have a passionate and energetic personality. Additionally, fire is associated with summer, a season filled with festivals, barbecues, and outdoor activities. It is the perfect time to enjoy the warmth of the sun and the cheerful embers of a campfire.

The kanji 火 is also used for common Japanese words and phrases. Some examples include:

–火曜日 (kayōbi) : Tuesday. The kanji 火 is used here to represent the third day of the week, which is considered the day of Mars, the Roman god of war, who is associated with fire.

–火事 (kaji) : fire. This term is used to refer to an uncontrolled and destructive fire.

–火山 (kazan) : volcano. In Japan, there are many active volcanoes and the country is located on the “Pacific Ring of Fire”, an area of ​​high seismic and volcanic activity.