1. Introduction
Japanese numbers play a fundamental role in daily life in Japan, making them an essential part of learning the language. From buying groceries and telling the time to managing schedules and handling money, numbers are everywhere. Unlike English, which uses a single numerical system, Japanese employs two main numbering systems. Each system has its own rules, pronunciation, and usage, and understanding the differences is crucial for accurate communication.
The first system is native Japanese numbers, which have been used historically in Japan for counting general items, expressing age, and traditional purposes. The second system, known as Sino-Japanese numbers, was borrowed from Chinese centuries ago and is now widely used for formal contexts, such as dates, addresses, money, and larger numbers. Both systems coexist, so learners must know when and how to use each.
Another key aspect of Japanese numbers is their connection to counters—special words that accompany numbers to count objects, people, or animals. For example, saying “three apples” in Japanese is different from “three pencils” because the counter changes depending on the object’s shape or type. This integration of numbers with counters makes Japanese counting unique and requires dedicated practice.
Learning Japanese numbers is not just about memorizing digits; it’s about understanding context. For instance, the same number can have multiple pronunciations depending on the situation. This is particularly true for numbers like 4 and 7, which can have unlucky or alternative pronunciations in different contexts. By mastering numbers, learners gain an essential foundation for reading, speaking, and understanding everyday Japanese.
2. The Two Types of Japanese Numbers
In Japanese, numbers are divided into native Japanese numbers and Sino-Japanese numbers, each with its own specific use. Native numbers, also called wago, are primarily used for counting small objects, expressing age, or referring to time in a traditional sense. For instance, saying “one apple” or “three children” would typically use native Japanese numbers combined with the appropriate counter. Native numbers are limited to smaller quantities and are rarely used for formal writing or financial matters.
On the other hand, Sino-Japanese numbers, also known as kango, are used for official and practical purposes, such as dates, money, phone numbers, addresses, and large quantities. These numbers are directly borrowed from Chinese numerals and often sound similar to Chinese pronunciations. For example, one in native Japanese is hitotsu, while in Sino-Japanese it is ichi. Knowing this distinction is important because using the wrong system can sound unnatural or even confusing to native speakers.
Some numbers have multiple pronunciations depending on which system is used. For example, four can be pronounced as shi (Sino-Japanese) or yon (both systems in certain contexts), and seven can be shichi or nana. Being aware of these differences is crucial, especially when dealing with sensitive matters such as money, where accuracy is key.
By learning both systems, beginners can comfortably navigate Japanese in real-life situations. Practicing both native and Sino-Japanese numbers simultaneously helps with fluency and understanding, ensuring that learners are not limited to only informal or only formal contexts.
3. Japanese Numbers from 0 to 10
Mastering numbers from 0 to 10 is the first step in learning Japanese numerals. These numbers form the foundation for counting larger quantities, telling age, reading dates, and forming more complex numbers. While learning these digits, it’s important to recognize the difference between Sino-Japanese numbers, used in formal and large-number contexts, and native Japanese numbers, used for counting small objects and age.
Here is a quick overview of numbers 0–10:
| Number | Sino-Japanese | Native Japanese |
| 0 | zero / rei | – |
| 1 | ichi | hitotsu |
| 2 | ni | futatsu |
| 3 | san | mittsu |
| 4 | shi / yon | yottsu |
| 5 | go | itsutsu |
| 6 | roku | muttsu |
| 7 | shichi / nana | nanatsu |
| 8 | hachi | yattsu |
| 9 | kyuu / ku | kokonotsu |
| 10 | juu | too |
Learning these numbers is not just about memorization; pronunciation practice is key. For instance, some numbers like 4 (shi/yon) and 7 (shichi/nana) have alternative pronunciations due to cultural and historical reasons. Using the wrong one can sometimes carry a negative connotation, especially in formal situations.
Once you master 0–10, forming numbers up to 99 becomes much easier. For example, 21 in Sino-Japanese is ni juu ichi (two tens and one), which follows a logical pattern. Native numbers, however, are primarily used for counting objects in combination with counters, so understanding context is essential.
By starting with 0–10 and practicing daily, learners gain a strong foundation for both conversational and written Japanese. Using visual aids, flashcards, and real-life objects can help reinforce these numbers and make learning interactive and fun.
4. Numbers from 11 to 20
After learning the basic numbers 0–10, the next step is understanding numbers from 11 to 20. In Japanese, these numbers are mostly Sino-Japanese, formed by combining 10 (juu) with the smaller digits. For example, 11 is juu ichi (10 + 1), 12 is juu ni (10 + 2), and so on. This pattern continues up to 19, making it logical and relatively easy to memorize once you know 1–10.
It’s important to note that native Japanese numbers are rarely used above 10, so for numbers like 11–20, Sino-Japanese numbers are standard in both written and spoken forms. For example, while juu go represents 15 in Sino-Japanese, there isn’t a common native Japanese counterpart for everyday use. Using these numbers correctly ensures your counting sounds natural and professional.
Another important point is pronunciation. Numbers like 14 (juu yon) and 17 (juu nana) can have alternative readings (juu shi, juu shichi), but in modern Japanese, yon and nana are preferred to avoid confusion or negative connotations, as shi can mean death. This cultural nuance is vital for learners to sound respectful and natural.
Once comfortable with 11–20, you can easily combine numbers to form higher numbers in the tens, hundreds, and thousands. For instance, 21 is ni juu ichi (two tens and one), 19 is juu kyuu (ten plus nine), following a simple logical structure that repeats in larger numbers.
Practicing 11–20 with real-life examples, like counting books, coins, or days, can solidify understanding. This approach ensures learners not only memorize numbers but also grasp practical usage, an essential step in achieving fluency.
5. Tens, Hundreds, and Thousands
Japanese numbers become increasingly systematic as you move beyond 20. Tens, hundreds, and thousands follow a predictable structure, which makes forming larger numbers easier. Tens are formed by combining the base number (2–9) with juu (10). For example: 30 is san juu (3 × 10), 50 is go juu (5 × 10), and 90 is kyuu juu (9 × 10).
Hundreds follow a similar pattern, but there are some pronunciation changes due to historical phonetic shifts. For example, 100 is hyaku, 200 is ni hyaku, 300 is san byaku, 400 is yon hyaku, 600 is roppyaku, and 800 is happyaku. These irregular pronunciations are important to memorize for accurate speaking and listening comprehension.
Thousands work similarly: 1,000 is sen, 2,000 is ni sen, 3,000 is san zen, 8,000 is hassen. Again, irregular pronunciations occur due to phonetic blending, which is common in Japanese numbers. Paying attention to these rules helps learners avoid common mistakes and speak naturally.
When you reach 10,000, Japanese uses a different base unit called man. Unlike English, which groups numbers by thousands, Japanese groups numbers by 10,000. For example, 20,000 is ni man, 100,000 is juu man, and 1,000,000 is hyaku man. This unique system may take practice but becomes intuitive once you understand the pattern.
By mastering tens, hundreds, and thousands, learners can confidently count, read prices, talk about years, and handle larger numbers in everyday life. Combining these numbers with proper counters (discussed next) is the next step to complete practical number usage.
6. Counting Objects in Japanese
Counting objects in Japanese is unique because numbers almost always require a counter, a word that classifies the type of object being counted. There are dozens of counters, and each depends on the object’s shape, size, or category. For example, -hon counts long cylindrical objects like pens or bottles, -mai counts flat objects like paper or plates, and -ko counts small, round items like apples or candies.
The choice of counter is not optional; saying a number without the correct counter can sound confusing or incorrect. For instance, one pen is ippon (not just ichi), three sheets of paper are san mai, and five candies are go ko. Using counters appropriately displays fluency and cultural knowledge in Japanese.
Some counters have irregular readings, which must be memorized. For example, hon (long objects) changes pronunciation depending on the number: 1 → ippon, 3 → san bon, 6 → roppon, 8 → happon. These exceptions are common, so repeated practice and listening are key to mastering them.
Counting objects is widely used in daily life, from ordering food to describing items in your home or classroom. Combining native numbers with counters is the standard for small objects, while Sino-Japanese numbers are used for larger quantities or formal situations.
By practicing counters with real objects, learners can make counting interactive and memorable. This step bridges the gap between simple number memorization and practical Japanese communication, allowing learners to count naturally in everyday conversations.
7. Telling Age in Japanese
Telling age in Japanese is slightly different from English because it uses native Japanese numbers combined with the counter -sai. For example, one year old is issai, five years old is gosai, and ten years old is jussai. Unlike English, where age is simply a number, Japanese incorporates this counter to indicate the concept of “years of age.”
It’s important to note some pronunciation nuances. Numbers 1, 8, and 10 change when combined with -sai:
- 1 year → issai (not hitoshi-sai)
- 8 years → hassai
- 10 years → jussai
This irregularity stems from historical phonetic rules, and native speakers automatically understand these forms. Practicing them helps learners avoid sounding awkward or unnatural.
For children, teachers, or casual conversations, knowing how to say age correctly is very useful. For example, when introducing a child, one might say: Watashi no musuko wa go sai desu (“My son is five years old”). Using the correct native numbers with -sai makes the statement polite and natural.
In addition, understanding age-related vocabulary is useful in cultural contexts. In Japan, the New Year or birthday often determines the age, and knowing the correct form is essential in social interactions. Mastering -sai prepares learners to combine numbers with counters and use them confidently in daily conversations.
8. Japanese Numbers for Dates
Dates in Japanese primarily use Sino-Japanese numbers along with special words for days of the month. The first three days, for example, have unique names: 1st → tsuitachi, 2nd → futsuka, 3rd → mikka. From the 4th onward, the day typically combines the Sino-Japanese number with the counter -nichi. For instance, the 11th is juu ichi nichi, the 20th is hatsu ka nichi, though some exceptions exist due to historical usage.
Months, on the other hand, are simpler: January is ichi gatsu, February is ni gatsu, and so on. Therefore, a full date like February 3rd would be ni gatsu mikka. Knowing this system allows learners to read calendars, understand schedules, and communicate plans accurately.
Pronunciation nuances are important in dates. For example, 14th can be pronounced juu yokka, and 24th as ni juu yokka, using the special form -yokka instead of the regular -nichi. These irregular forms are limited to specific days, so memorizing them is essential for fluency.
Using numbers correctly in dates is also critical in formal and business settings. For instance, contracts, appointments, and tickets always use Sino-Japanese numbers to avoid confusion. Practicing dates with real-life examples, such as birthdays or holidays, helps learners internalize the patterns.
By mastering dates, learners not only read Japanese calendars but also develop the ability to discuss schedules, events, and planning in everyday conversations, which is a practical and essential skill.
9. Japanese Numbers for Money
When dealing with money, Japanese numbers always use Sino-Japanese numerals. This system is consistent for all monetary amounts, making it important to learn for anyone traveling, shopping, or studying in Japan. For instance: ¥100 → hyaku en, ¥1,000 → sen en, ¥10,000 → ichi man en. The use of Sino-Japanese numbers ensures clarity and formality in financial matters.
Large amounts follow the same logical pattern. For example:
- ¥50,000 → go man en (5 × 10,000 yen)
- ¥100,000 → juu man en (10 × 10,000 yen)
- ¥1,000,000 → hyaku man en (100 × 10,000 yen)
Understanding this system is crucial because Japan groups numbers differently than English. Japanese groups by 10,000 units (man) rather than 1,000, which can be confusing for beginners. For example, ¥1,000,000 is expressed as hyaku man en rather than “one million yen.”
Pronunciation rules for large numbers are also important. Numbers like 300 → san byaku or 8,000 → hassen have irregular readings, and these must be learned to avoid misunderstandings, especially in transactions or banking.
Practicing money-related numbers with real-life scenarios, like reading price tags, paying at stores, or discussing budgets, is highly effective. Mastery of Japanese monetary numbers is not just about reading and speaking; it also gives learners confidence in practical, everyday life situations in Japan.
10. Telephone Numbers in Japanese
Reading telephone numbers in Japanese is straightforward but requires attention to pronouncing each digit individually using Sino-Japanese numbers. Unlike counting objects or telling age, you don’t combine numbers; every digit is read separately. For example, a phone number like 090-1234-5678 is pronounced as zero kyuu zero – ichi ni san shi – go roku nana hachi.
When pronouncing zeros in numbers, you can use either zero (commonly in modern contexts) or rei (traditional). Both are acceptable, but zero is more commonly used in everyday conversation and business in Japan. Consistency is important, so pick one and stick with it in formal situations.
Learning telephone numbers is crucial because Japanese phone numbers follow a specific grouping pattern: usually 3-4-4 digits for mobile numbers and varying formats for landlines. For instance, 03-1234-5678 (Tokyo landline) is read as zero san – ichi ni san shi – go roku nana hachi. Practicing with real numbers will make you comfortable with this format.
Telephone numbers are also used in emergency situations, booking tickets, or communicating with friends, so correct pronunciation ensures clarity. Repetition and practice with audio recordings of Japanese numbers can help learners memorize the sequence naturally.
By mastering telephone numbers, learners gain confidence in handling everyday communication and understand the functional aspect of Sino-Japanese numbers beyond basic counting.
11. Japanese Large Numbers
Japanese has a unique system for large numbers, which differs from Western counting. Instead of grouping by thousands, Japanese numbers use 10,000 (man) as the base unit. For example:
- 10,000 → man
- 100,000 → juu man
- 1,000,000 → hyaku man
- 10,000,000 → sen man
This system is essential to understand when reading newspapers, handling money, or talking about large quantities. For instance, 2,500,000 is expressed as ni hyaku go juu man (2 × 1,000,000 + 500 × 10,000).
Irregular pronunciation occurs with hundreds and thousands within large numbers, such as 300 → san byaku and 8,000 → hassen. These exceptions must be memorized to ensure accurate reading and speaking.
Large numbers are often combined with Sino-Japanese numbers, especially in business, finance, and formal writing. Understanding the man unit allows learners to read numbers efficiently without confusion. For instance, a train schedule listing 12,000 passengers as ichi man ni sen is much easier to interpret if you know this system.
Mastering large numbers also develops the ability to discuss population, prices, distances, or statistics in Japanese. Once learners understand the logic of man, higher numbers become predictable and manageable.
12. Tips to Memorize Japanese Numbers
Memorizing Japanese numbers requires more than repetition; it requires strategic practice. Here are some effective techniques:
- Flashcards – Write each number with both Sino-Japanese and native forms. Include pronunciation cues to reinforce memory. Reviewing them daily improves retention.
- Use counters – Associate numbers with objects in your environment. For example, count books, pens, or fruits using the correct counters (-hon, -mai, -ko). This contextualizes learning.
- Listen and repeat – Audio resources, songs, or Japanese TV shows help with correct pronunciation and rhythm, especially for numbers with irregular readings like san byaku or hassen.
- Start small and build – Learn numbers 0–10 first, then 11–20, followed by tens, hundreds, and thousands. Gradually increase complexity without overwhelming yourself.
- Practice real-life scenarios – Try reading phone numbers, prices, or dates in Japanese. Engaging in practical exercises reinforces learning and builds confidence.
Consistency is key. Daily exposure and active use of numbers in speech and writing accelerate mastery. Combining visualization, listening, and practice makes numbers stick naturally.
13. Common Mistakes to Avoid
When learning Japanese numbers, beginners often make mistakes that can lead to confusion or sound unnatural to native speakers. Being aware of these common pitfalls early on helps learners build confidence and avoid unnecessary errors. One of the most frequent mistakes is confusing the pronunciations of certain numbers, particularly 4 and 7. In Sino-Japanese, 4 can be pronounced as shi or yon, and 7 as shichi or nana. While shi and shichi are technically correct, they are often avoided in daily conversation because shi sounds like the word for “death,” and shichi can sometimes be unclear in rapid speech. Using yon for 4 and nana for 7 is safer and more natural in most situations.
Another common error is using native Japanese numbers instead of Sino-Japanese numbers in contexts where formal counting is required. For instance, dates, money, phone numbers, and addresses always use Sino-Japanese numbers. Saying futatsu gatsu mikka instead of ni gatsu mikka for February 3rd, or hitotsu en instead of ichi en for ¥1, can sound awkward and incorrect. Learners should practice distinguishing when each system is appropriate to avoid such mistakes.
Forgetting counters for objects is another area where beginners often stumble. In Japanese, numbers alone are rarely used without a counter. Saying san pen instead of san bon (three pens) or go sheet instead of go mai (five sheets of paper) can lead to confusion. Counters are essential in conveying accurate quantity and shape, and mastering them is key for natural communication.
Additionally, learners sometimes mispronounce irregular forms of hundreds and thousands, such as san byaku (300), roppyaku (600), hassen (8,000), or san zen (3,000). Incorrect pronunciation can confuse listeners, especially in financial or formal contexts. Repetition and listening practice help reinforce these exceptions.
By being aware of these common mistakes, learners can improve accuracy and sound more natural when speaking Japanese. Regular practice, careful listening, and using real-life examples will help avoid errors and build confidence in both casual and formal situations.
14. Conclusion
Learning Japanese numbers is a foundational step in mastering the language, and it goes far beyond memorizing digits. Japanese numbers are deeply integrated into everyday life—from telling time, counting objects, and expressing age, to handling money, reading dates, and using telephone numbers. Understanding both native Japanese numbers and Sino-Japanese numbers, along with the correct use of counters, ensures that learners communicate accurately and naturally in various contexts.
One of the key takeaways is that numbers in Japanese are context-dependent. Native numbers are typically used for counting objects and ages, while Sino-Japanese numbers are preferred for dates, money, phone numbers, and large numbers. Misusing these systems can lead to confusion or sound unnatural. Additionally, irregular pronunciations, such as san byaku (300) or hassen (8,000), require careful attention and practice.
Consistency, repetition, and practical application are essential for mastering Japanese numbers. Using flashcards, listening to audio resources, counting real-life objects, and practicing phone numbers, dates, or money transactions can dramatically improve retention and fluency. Engaging with numbers in everyday situations bridges the gap between memorization and practical use.
Finally, mastering Japanese numbers builds confidence in daily communication, travel, business, and cultural interactions. Numbers are everywhere in Japan, and knowing how to read, pronounce, and apply them correctly allows learners to navigate life more smoothly and interact with native speakers with ease. By practicing regularly and paying attention to common mistakes, learners can confidently use Japanese numbers in any situation.
In summary, Japanese numbers are not just symbols—they are a practical tool that connects language, culture, and daily life. Mastery of numbers opens the door to deeper understanding of the Japanese language and provides a solid foundation for further learning.
15. FAQs
1. What are Japanese numbers?
Japanese numbers are numerical symbols and words used in the Japanese language. They consist of two main systems: native Japanese numbers for counting objects and ages, and Sino-Japanese numbers (borrowed from Chinese) for dates, money, phone numbers, and large numbers.
2. What is the difference between native and Sino-Japanese numbers?
Native Japanese numbers (wago) are used for counting small objects and age. Sino-Japanese numbers (kango) are used in formal contexts such as money, dates, phone numbers, and large numbers. Choosing the correct system depends on the context.
3. How do you count from 0 to 10 in Japanese?
Numbers 0–10 in Japanese are: 0 → zero/re i, 1 → ichi/hitotsu, 2 → ni/futatsu, 3 → san/mittsu, 4 → shi/yon/yottsu, 5 → go/itsutsu, 6 → roku/muttsu, 7 → shichi/nana/nanatsu, 8 → hachi/yattsu, 9 → kyuu/ku/kokonotsu, 10 → juu/too.
4. How do you count objects in Japanese?
In Japanese, you use counters to count objects. For example, -hon for long objects (pens, bottles), -mai for flat objects (paper, plates), and -ko for small objects (candies, apples). Example: ippon → one long object, sanmai → three flat objects.
5. How do you tell age in Japanese?
To tell age, use native numbers with the counter -sai. Examples: 1 year old → issai, 5 years old → gosai, 10 years old → jussai. Some numbers change pronunciation due to historical rules.
6. How are dates written in Japanese?
Months use Sino-Japanese numbers with -gatsu, and days use special words or Sino-Japanese numbers with -nichi. Example: February 3rd → ni gatsu mikka, 11th → juu ichi nichi. Some days, like 14th → juu yokka, have irregular forms.
7. How do you say money amounts in Japanese?
Japanese yen uses Sino-Japanese numbers. Examples: ¥100 → hyaku en, ¥1,000 → sen en, ¥10,000 → ichi man en. Large numbers follow a unique grouping by 10,000 (man).
8. How are telephone numbers read in Japanese?
Each digit is read separately using Sino-Japanese numbers. Example: 090-1234-5678 → zero kyuu zero – ichi ni san shi – go roku nana hachi. Zeros can be pronounced as zero or rei.
9. What is the largest number in Japanese counting?
Japanese counting uses the unit man (10,000) as a base for large numbers. Examples: 10,000 → man, 100,000 → juu man, 1,000,000 → hyaku man, 10,000,000 → sen man.
10. What are common mistakes in Japanese numbers?
Common mistakes include confusing 4 (shi/yon) and 7 (shichi/nana), using native numbers instead of Sino-Japanese for dates or money, and forgetting object counters. Mispronouncing irregular hundreds or thousands is also common.
11. How can I memorize Japanese numbers easily?
Effective strategies include using flashcards, practicing with real objects, listening and repeating audio resources, starting with 0–10, and gradually moving to higher numbers. Regular practice in real-life scenarios helps retention.
12. Why is learning Japanese numbers important?
Numbers are everywhere in Japan—money, dates, time, phone numbers, and more. Mastering them helps in daily communication, traveling, business, and understanding Japanese culture. Numbers are also the foundation for learning higher-level language skills.
