后 — empress, queen, after
Learn the correct stroke order for 后 (empress), a 6-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 6 — start from the green dot
Common Words
Usage & Examples
Usage Notes
The kanji 后 (empress) is taught in grade 6 of Japanese elementary school and appears at JLPT N1 level. It has 6 strokes with radical 口.
In newspaper frequency rankings, 后 is #1583, making it a moderately common 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 后 have?
The kanji 后 (empress) has 6 strokes. Watch the animation above to see the correct order.
What is the correct stroke order for 后?
后 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 后 mean?
后 means: empress, queen, after, behind, back, later. On'yomi readings: コウ, ゴ. Kun'yomi readings: きさき.
What JLPT level is 后?
后 is a JLPT N1 kanji. This is an advanced kanji.