What Does 東 Mean in Japanese?
東 means east, the direction associated with sunrise.
You will see it on station signs, maps, addresses, and in regional names.
Learn it together with 西, 南, and 北 to build a complete set of direction vocabulary.
Reading
On’yomi: トウ (tou)
Kun’yomi: ひがし (higashi)
Basic Information
| Kanji | 東 |
|---|---|
| Meaning | east |
| Stroke Count | 8 |
| JLPT Level | N4 |
How to Understand This Kanji
東 can indicate a direction, an area located to the east, or the eastern part of a larger region. It often contrasts directly with 西 and combines naturally with 北 and 南.
Common Words
- 東（ひがし / higashi） — east
- 東口（ひがしぐち / higashiguchi） — east exit
- 東側（ひがしがわ / higashigawa） — east side
- 東部（とうぶ / toubu） — eastern part
- 東洋（とうよう / touyou） — the East, the Orient
- 東西（とうざい / touzai） — east and west
Example Sentences
-
駅の東口で会いましょう。
えきのひがしぐちであいましょう。 / Eki no higashiguchi de aimashou.
Let’s meet at the east exit of the station.
-
町の東側に大きな公園があります。
まちのひがしがわにおおきなこうえんがあります。 / Machi no higashigawa ni ookina kouen ga arimasu.
There is a large park on the east side of town.
-
この電車は東へ向かいます。
このでんしゃはひがしへむかいます。 / Kono densha wa higashi e mukaimasu.
This train heads east.
When Learners Usually See This Kanji
The kun’yomi ひがし is common when 東 stands alone. The on’yomi トウ appears in compounds such as 東京, 東口, and 東洋. Learn 東 together with 西, 南, and 北.
Summary
東 means east and is essential for directions, maps, transportation, and regional vocabulary.