Aspiration
Original intention / Beginner’s mind
shoshin / しょしん
Dictionary meaning
The feeling or intention one had when first beginning something. It can also refer to being at the start of learning.
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
Remembering why you began is one personal theme. The spelling also has the separate reading ubu for innocence or inexperience; shoshin is selected here.
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 →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.
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.
Read the before-the-ink guide →
