Inner strength
Harmony
wa / わ
Dictionary meaning
Harmony, calm, and coming together. In other contexts it can refer to Japan, mixing, or a mathematical sum.
Your intended symbolism
Your personal symbolism is separate from the dictionary meaning. Explain what you want this choice to express to a fluent Japanese reader and your artist.
Context & cautions
和 has several meanings. For the specific word ‘peace,’ 平和 (heiwa) is a common two-character word.
Size & legibility: discuss with your artist
There is no universal minimum tattoo size based on stroke count. Ask your artist to check line weight, the gaps between strokes, placement, and how the lettering may age. Preview dimensions include transparent margins and are not a safe minimum size.
Typeface, output quality & sources →- On’yomi
- ワ・オ · wa / o
- Kun’yomi
- Selected: なごむ · nagomu; やわらぐ · yawaragu
Selected readings are shown. On’yomi are readings of Chinese origin; kun’yomi are native Japanese readings. The word and context determine which is used.
Dictionary reference: Japanese dictionary entry ↗
Dictionary links are references only. They do not mean that the linked organization certifies, endorses, or supervises this site.
PICTURE YOUR PLACEMENT
See your kanji on skin
Explore where your kanji could sit before discussing the final placement with your artist.
BEFORE YOU INK
Your meaning check
For Yu Kyokasho Bold lettering.
- Dictionary meaning
- Harmony, calm, and coming together. In other contexts it can refer to Japan, mixing, or a mathematical sum.
- Context & limits
- 和 has several meanings. For the specific word ‘peace,’ 平和 (heiwa) is a common two-character word.
- Complete writing & selected reading
- 和 · wa / わ
Loading your checklist…
These are your own acknowledgements, not professional verification or approval to tattoo. Review the final drawing and stencil together before tattooing.
Saved only in this browser. Your checklist is included when you add this kanji to an artist consultation sheet. It is not synced or sent to analytics. Changes to the entry’s meaning, reading, or lettering typeface reset these checks.
From character to lettering
This is a typeset reference, rather than a tattoo stencil. Check the final drawing, orientation, and intended meaning with a fluent Japanese reader and your artist.
Dictionary reference: Kanjipedia — 和 ↗
Read the before-the-ink guide →
