山
🌿 Nature3 strokesJLPT N5
Mountain
やま・さん
📖 Meaning & Origin
The 山 radical is a direct pictogram of a mountain with three peaks. It appears in kanji related to mountains, geography, and natural landscapes.
📚 Kanji by JLPT Level
N5N4(Coming soon)N3(Coming soon)N2(Coming soon)N1(Coming soon)
💡 Teacher's Memory Tip
Three peaks rising from a flat base — that's 山. The tallest peak is in the middle, just like a classic mountain silhouette.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
What does this radical mean?
The 山 radical means 'mountain.' It is one of the most visually obvious radicals — three vertical strokes of different heights make a mountain outline.
Which N5 kanji have this radical?
At N5 level, 山 (mountain) is the key kanji. As you advance to N4/N3, you'll encounter more kanji built on 山.
How can I remember this radical?
Draw three vertical lines — tall, taller, tall — on a flat base. The shape is a mountain. Simple and unforgettable.
Other N5 Radicals
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