南 — south
Learn the correct stroke order for 南 (south), a 9-stroke kanji.
Stroke Order
Step-by-Step Diagram
Try Writing It
Practice writing each stroke in the correct order and direction. Start from the green dot.
Draw stroke 1 of 9 — start from the green dot
Common Words
Usage & Examples
Usage Notes
The kanji 南 (south) is taught in grade 2 of Japanese elementary school and appears at JLPT N5 level. It has 9 strokes with radical 十.
In newspaper frequency rankings, 南 is #341, making it one of the most commonly used kanji.
Example Words in Context
Practice Sheet
Trace then write on your own. Print this row as a PDF practice sheet.
Related Kanji
Frequently Asked Questions
How many strokes does 南 have?
The kanji 南 (south) has 9 strokes. Watch the animation above to see the correct order.
What is the correct stroke order for 南?
南 follows the standard Japanese stroke order as taught in schools. Use the step-by-step diagram or the "Try Writing" tool above to practice each stroke in sequence.
What does 南 mean?
南 means: south. On'yomi readings: ナン, ナ. Kun'yomi readings: みなみ.
What JLPT level is 南?
南 is a JLPT N5 kanji. This is a beginner-level kanji.