Curator: Prof. Elena Rostova Date: 2/18/2026 Dept: Visual Arts & Sciences

THREE IN JAPANESE

The number three in Japanese has a unique and interesting representation. It is written as san in the kanji system, which is a logographic writing system used in Japan. This character is composed of three vertical lines, each representing a different aspect of the number. The first line symbolizes the concept of "one," the second line represents "two," and the third line signifies "three" itself. This visual representation is a beautiful and concise way to express the number in Japanese.

In addition to the kanji, the Japanese language also uses the numerical system for writing numbers. The word for three in this system is さん, which is a simple and straightforward representation. This numerical form is widely used in everyday communication and is easily understood by all Japanese speakers.

Supplementary Figures

Fig 1. Circle Symbol

Three ancient Japanese paper lanterns, each intricately carved with intricate patterns, hang gracefully in a serene temple garden. The soft glow of the lanterns illuminates the peaceful atmosphere, inviting visitors to reflect and find inner peace.

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Fig 2. Cycle Symbol

A bustling Japanese street market scene with three colorful food stalls displaying an array of fresh sushi, tempura, and grilled skewers. The vibrant colors and aromatic scents entice passersby, capturing the essence of Japanese culinary delights.

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Fig 3. Alphabets

Three delicate Japanese paper fans, adorned with traditional paintings of koi fish, are displayed on a wooden shelf. The fans showcase the beauty of traditional art, offering a glimpse into the cultural heritage of Japan.

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Fig 4. Number

A serene Japanese tea ceremony setup featuring three elegant ceramic tea bowls, each filled with a different type of matcha. The arrangement evokes a sense of mindfulness and the art of savoring the moment.

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Fig 5. Kanji

Three traditional Japanese kimonos, each in a different vibrant color, hang gracefully on a wooden rack in a boutique. The kimonos showcase the elegance and craftsmanship of Japanese textiles, attracting fashion enthusiasts and cultural explorers.

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Fig 6. How to count in Japanese | Full Potential Martial Arts Academy

A Japanese garden pond with three graceful koi fish swimming in perfect harmony. The vibrant colors of the fish stand out against the lush greenery, creating a captivating scene that symbolizes balance and tranquility.

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Fig 7. Japanese Number 3 Chart for Classroom Learning

Three Japanese paper lanterns, each with a unique design, are illuminated in a small, cozy garden. The warm glow creates a cozy atmosphere, perfect for evening meditation or a peaceful moment under the stars.

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Fig 8. Numbers in Japanese Kanji | Japanese Teacher Mari

A Japanese restaurant's interior featuring three large, ornate paper screens that divide the dining area. The screens add a touch of traditional elegance, enhancing the dining experience and providing a sense of privacy.

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Fig 9. Japanese Counting Kanji at Janelle Mayo blog

Three Japanese calligraphy brushes, each with a different ink color, are carefully arranged on a wooden desk. The brushes showcase the precision and artistry of Japanese calligraphy, inspiring artists and enthusiasts alike.

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Fig 10. Japanese Numbers: Counting in Japanese from 1-100+ » Fluent in 3 Months ...

A Japanese temple's entrance adorned with three vibrant paper lanterns, each depicting different Buddhist symbols. The lanterns create a welcoming atmosphere, inviting visitors to explore the spiritual significance of the temple.

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Fig 11. How To Say Numbers In Japanese

Three traditional Japanese tea cups, each with a unique floral design, are arranged on a wooden tray. The cups evoke a sense of hospitality and the art of sharing a moment of tranquility over a cup of tea.

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Fig 12. Kanji - 三 - 365 Nihongo

A Japanese garden path lined with three types of carefully trimmed hedges, creating a geometric pattern. The hedges offer a sense of structure and order, providing a peaceful retreat in a bustling urban setting.

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Fig 13. Japanese Numbers | Kanji Counting Chart

Three Japanese paper umbrellas, each with a different pattern, are displayed in a small, indoor garden. The umbrellas add a touch of whimsy and create a cozy, shaded area for relaxation.

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Fig 14. Japanese Numbers: How to Count from 1 to 100 - Busuu | Basic japanese ...

A Japanese restaurant's menu featuring three carefully crafted sushi rolls, each with a unique ingredient combination. The rolls showcase the creativity and precision of Japanese culinary art, enticing food enthusiasts.

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Fig 15. 1 to 10 Japanese Counting Flashcards - Languages - Primary

Three Japanese paper fans, each with a different traditional pattern, are displayed on a wall in a cultural museum. The fans provide a glimpse into the history and craftsmanship of Japanese fan-making traditions.

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Fig 16. Japanese Numbers - The Number System of Japanese | Basic japanese words ...

A Japanese garden pond with three koi fish, each with a unique color, swimming in a synchronized dance. The vibrant colors and graceful movements create a mesmerizing spectacle, attracting visitors and nature enthusiasts.

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Fig 17. Japanische Zahlen

Three Japanese paper lanterns, each with a different size, are hung in a row along a riverbank. The lanterns create a magical atmosphere, perfect for a romantic evening stroll or a peaceful moment by the water.

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Fig 18. Japanese Numbers and Counting - SakuraMani

A Japanese tea house's interior, featuring three traditional tatami mats and a small, ornate tea set. The space exudes a sense of simplicity and tranquility, inviting guests to immerse themselves in the art of tea.

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Fig 19. Japanese Numbers 1 10 - Paul Terry

Three Japanese paper screens, each with a different landscape painting, are displayed in a modern art gallery. The screens showcase the fusion of traditional Japanese art with contemporary design.

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Fig 20. Japanese Number System - How to Write Japanese Numbers | Japanese ...

A Japanese garden path leading to a small pond with three carefully placed stone lanterns. The lanterns guide visitors along the path, creating a sense of mystery and inviting exploration.

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Fig 21. Learning Japanese: Counting in Japanese from 1-100+ | Basic japanese ...

Three Japanese paper fans, each with a different pattern, are arranged on a shelf in a traditional Japanese room. The fans add a touch of elegance and provide a cooling breeze during hot summer days.

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Fig 22. Guide till japansk läsning och skrivning: De 3 versionerna av japanska ...

A Japanese restaurant's dining area, featuring three large, ornate paper lanterns that hang above the tables. The lanterns create a warm and inviting ambiance, enhancing the dining experience.

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Fig 23. 1から10000までの日本語の数え方

Three Japanese calligraphy brushes, each with a different ink color, are displayed in a glass case. The brushes are a testament to the precision and artistry of Japanese calligraphy, attracting art collectors.

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Fig 24. How to say 3 in Japanese? - Japanese Numbers

A Japanese temple's garden with three carefully arranged rock formations, each representing a different aspect of nature. The formations evoke a sense of tranquility and the beauty of simplicity.

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Fig 25. How many characters are in the Japanese alphabet? | Japanese Teacher Mari

Three Japanese paper umbrellas, each with a different pattern, are displayed in a small, indoor garden. The umbrellas create a whimsical and cozy atmosphere, perfect for a peaceful retreat.

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Fig 26. How to say 3 in Japanese - Numbers Converter | Convert Japanese

A Japanese restaurant's menu featuring three unique sushi rolls, each with a different ingredient combination. The rolls showcase the creativity and precision of Japanese culinary art, enticing food enthusiasts.

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Fig 27. What are the Japanese alphabets?: Let's see Hiragana origin

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