川 — stream, river, river or three-stroke river radical (no. 47)
Learn the correct stroke order for 川 (stream), a 3-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 3 — start from the green dot
Common Words
Usage & Examples
Usage Notes
The kanji 川 (stream) is taught in grade 1 of Japanese elementary school and appears at JLPT N5 level. It has 3 strokes with radical 巛.
In newspaper frequency rankings, 川 is #181, 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 川 have?
The kanji 川 (stream) has 3 strokes. Watch the animation above to see the correct order.
What is the correct stroke order for 川?
川 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 川 mean?
川 means: stream, river, river or three-stroke river radical (no. 47). On'yomi readings: セン. Kun'yomi readings: かわ.
What JLPT level is 川?
川 is a JLPT N5 kanji. This is a beginner-level kanji.