Buy a Thing calligraphy wall scroll here!
Personalize your custom “Thing” project by clicking the button next to your favorite “Thing” title below...
6. Dignity / Honor / Sanctity / Integrity
7. Let Us Try
8. Treasure
9. Shitsuke
11. Time is more valuable than Jade
12. Sorry / Feel Apologetic / Regret
13. Peaceful Warrior
14. Defense / Defend
15. Forest
16. Essence
17. Queen
19. Under the Protection of the Dragon Saint
20. Luo / Raku
21. Training / Drill
22. Clear Blue Sky
23. Sparrow
24. Treasure
25. Bon Voyage
26. Strong / Healthy
27. Fujin
28. Knowledge of Ultimate Truth
31. Love and Honor
32. Tao / Dao of the Heart / Soul
33. Courage To Do What Is Right
35. Good Intentions / Good Will / Good Faith
37. Five Red Bats
38. Trust No One / Trust No Man
39. Integrity
40. Love and Honor
41. Five Elements Tai Chi Fist
42. Phenomenon
43. Sacrifice / Devotion / Dedication
44. Ice / Frost
45. Great Aspirations / Ambition
47. Sensei / Master / Teacher / Mister
49. Devotion / Dedication / Attentive / Focused
50. Justice / Rectitude / Right Decision
51. Sword
52. Confucius: Golden Rule / Ethic of Reciprocity
53. Daoism / Taoism
54. Banzai / Wansui
55. Banzai
56. Mountain Travels Poem by Dumu
57. Dedication
無所畏懼 means “fear nothing,” but it's the closest thing in Chinese to the phrase “fear no man” which many of you have requested.
This would also be the way to say “fear nobody” and can be translated simply as “undaunted.”
無 is the simple way to express “nothing.”
However, this single character leaves a bit of mystery as to what you might really mean if you hang it as a wall scroll. I'm not saying that's a bad thing; as you can decide what it means to you, and you won't be wrong if you stay within the general context.
More info: 無 is usually used as a suffix or prefix for Chinese and Japanese words (also old Korean). It can be compared to “un-” or “-less” in English. It can also mean “not to have,” no, none, not, “to lack,” or nothingness.
何も不可能じゃない is a Japanese phrase that means “nothing is impossible.”
This is just one of a few ways to express this idea. This one is probably the most common but other valid versions include these:
何も不可能でない
何事も不可能ではない
Some shorter versions that just mean “not impossible” include these:
不不可能
不可能はない
Another common phrase that roughly means “No such thing as impossible” looks like this: 不可能なことはない
Some others include these...
Impossible things are possessed not by me: 無理なことなんてない
Where there's a will, there's a way: 精神一到何事か成らざらん
If you want any of these other versions for your wall scroll, just contact me and I'll set it up for you.
Note: Because this selection contains some special Japanese Hiragana characters, it should be written by a Japanese calligrapher.
永遠に私の心の中に means “forever in my heart” or “always in my heart” in Japanese.
The character breakdown:
永遠 (eien) eternity; perpetuity; immortality; permanence.
に (ni) indicates the location of a person or thing.
私の (watashi no) my; mine.
心の中 (kokoro no naka) the middle of one's mind; the midst of one's heart.
に (ni) indicates the location of a person or thing (makes this “in” the middle of one's heart).
Note: There’s more than one way to say "Forever in My Heart" in Japanese, so you’ll find another version in our database. This is the very verbose version.
Note: Because this selection contains some special Japanese Hiragana characters, it should be written by a Japanese calligrapher.
尊嚴 is a form of honor that means showing great respect for yourself, other people, and the rules you live by.
When you are honorable, you keep your word. You do the right thing regardless of what others are doing.
尊嚴 is the kind of personal honor or dignity that is of great value. If you lose this, you have lost yourself and perhaps the reputation of your family as well.
While this is not directly the same thing as “face” or “saving face” in Asian culture, it is associated with the same concept in China.
In Japan, they currently use a more simplified second character for this word. The ancient Japanese form is the same as China but after WWII some Kanji were changed. If you want the modern Japanese version, just click on the Kanji image shown to the right, instead of the button above.
Essayons
嘗試 is a close match for the English phrase “let us try” or the French word “Essayons.”
Essayons the motto of Combat Engineers in the U.S. Army.
This word can also be translated as “to try” or “to attempt.”
Even if you're not a Combat Engineer, this word should inspire you to attempt to accomplish difficult things. If you don't try, you are certain to fail; if you do try, at least there is a chance of success.
The worst thing is not failure, the worst thing is not trying at all.
寶 means precious thing or treasure.
This can also mean precious, a gem, a pearl, or anything valuable.
The version of this character shown to the left is the traditional Chinese and ancient/traditional Japanese version. In modern Japan and China, this character has been simplified. This simplified version is shown to the right. If you want this modern Japanese/simplified version, just click the Kanji on the right, instead of the button above. If your audience is Chinese or Korean, I recommend the ancient/traditional form. Only consider the simplified form if your audience is younger Japanese people.
躾 is shitsuke which means to discipline, to train, training, or teach manners in Japanese.
躾 means the same thing in Chinese, but not as commonly used.
和平武士 means “Warrior for Peace” (a warrior who fights for peace) in Chinese.
Note this is not the same thing as a “peaceful warrior.”
See Also: Peace
平和的武士 means “Peaceful Warrior” in Chinese. This does in fact sound like an oxymoron in Chinese - but many of you have asked for this special title.
Note this is not the same thing as “warrior for peace.”
See Also: Peace
防 is a single Chinese character and Korean Hanja that means to protect, defend, guard against, prevent, ward off, or counter.
防 means the same thing in Japanese, though seldom seen alone as a single Kanji. When written alone, it could be the Japanese surname Fusegi.
森 is the Chinese, Japanese Kanji, and old Korean Hanja for forest.
This can also refer to a dense forest-like place or thing. It can also refer to a shrine grove or sacred grove (a forest of religious significance).
精髓 is the Chinese, Japanese Kanji, and old Korean Hanja for essence.
This can also be translated as marrow, pith, quintessence, kernel, spirit, etc.
This often refers to the nature or basis of whatever element, plant, animal, being, person, or thing you are talking about.
The original Chinese version (also Korean Hanja) and modern Japanese version of the second character differ a tiny bit:
vs.
Both versions are so close that both Chinese and Japanese people will recognize this word. If you want the specifically-Japanese version, click on this link instead of the button above: Order Essence in Japanese
甘味 is sweet or sweetness in Chinese characters, Japanese Kanji, and old Korean Hanja. This refers to a sweet taste, sugary taste, or sweet flavor. It can also be a noun meaning sweets, dessert, or cake.
This can also refer to charm or appeal (of a woman or lovely thing).
神龍庇護 is not the most common thing to say in Chinese, but it is grammatically correct and a cool title.
The first character means “supernatural or saintly.” The second is “dragon.” The last two mean protection. You could also translate this as something like “Protected by the Dragon God” or more closely “Holy Dragon.”
Surname
駱 is a character that can be a Chinese surname Luo or a Japanese surname Raku.
The original meaning of this character is a camel, but that is rather archaic. The surname is the first thing that comes to mind for any Chinese or Japanese person.
If training or drill is important to you (especially for military drill and training), 訓練 might be just the thing for a drill master to hang behind his/her desk.
This term is universal in Chinese, Japanese Kanji, and old Korean Hanja. It can also mean practice or exercise, depending on context.
雀 is the shortest way to say small bird, or sparrow in Chinese, Japanese, and Korean.
In Chinese, this can also be a colloquial way to speak of a freckle.
In Japanese, it's a nickname for a talkative person - not a bad thing, as it can also be a knowledgeable person
In Chinese, 珍寶 means treasure, something you value highly, or something very precious to you.
In Japanese, 珍寶 has a meaning like “rare treasure.”
珍 can mean a precious thing or treasure. 寶 can mean a jewel or gem, a treasure, or simply precious. Together these two characters reinforce each other into a word that clearly means treasure.
一路平安 is a wish for someone to have a pleasant journey.
It's probably the closest way to translate “bon voyage” into Chinese.
The first two characters mean one road or one path. The second two characters mean “safe and sound” or “without mishap.”
一路平安 means the same thing in Japanese but is not the most common selection for a wall scroll.
健やか is a verbose way to say strong and healthy in Japanese. 健やか is the “strong” that is appropriate for an athlete.
Beyond “healthy,” it can also mean strength, persistence, vigorous, or invigoration.
Japanese also use the first Kanji to mean the same thing. This version adds two hiragana which serve to emphasize or amplify the word and clarify the meaning.
Note: Because this selection contains some special Japanese Hiragana characters, it should be written by a Japanese calligrapher.
夫人 is a Japanese word that romanizes as Fujin.
I added this because several people have searched for Fujin. 夫人 can mean: lady; madam; Mrs.; consort of the emperor; wife; wife of a nobleman (aristocrat, etc.); the wife of a king. 夫人 means the same thing in Chinese, Japanese, and old Korean.
夫人 is an odd choice for a wall scroll, but I have fulfilled your search for Fujin, I think.
眞智 can mean the wisdom or knowledge of ultimate truth.
眞智 is also the absolute knowledge of the non-thing or that which is immaterial. This makes more sense when you consider that true wisdom includes the knowledge of both the real and unreal, or what is material and immaterial.
In Japan, 眞智 (Masatoshi) can also be a given name.
信賴 can also be translated as confidence, reliance, or dependence; thus, it can also mean “to rely on” or “to depend on.”
Trust is having faith in someone or something. It is a positive attitude about life. You are confident that the right thing will happen without trying to control or make it happen. Even when difficult things happen, trust helps us to find the gift or lesson in it.
There is a slight deviation in the Japanese Kanji form of the second character. If you want the modern Japanese version, please click on the special Kanji shown to the right instead of the button above. Note that the traditional Chinese form is still readable and understood by Japanese people.
See Also: Confidence | Truth | Honor
鉄心石腸 is a Japanese proverb that suggests you should have the inner-strength and will as hard and steadfast as iron.
It's the Japanese way of saying, “stay strong.” This is an especially uplifting thing to say to a person in distress or recovering from a disaster. It's kind of the survivor's creed.
If you literally translate this, it means “iron will, stone guts” or “iron heart, rock-hard bowels.”
深情厚義 means to love and honor.
This is more or less the kind of thing you'd find in marriage vows.
The first two characters suggest deep love or deep emotions, passion, and feelings.
The last two characters mean generous justice or thick honor (the third character is an adjective that means generous or thick). It just means that you will honor your lover's wishes and treat them justly and righteously (fairly).
This is the longer four-character version, there is also a short and sweet two character version.
See Also: Love and Honor
心道 means “The Way of the Heart” or “The Way of the Soul.” The first character means “heart” but can also mean soul, spirit, mind, or your essence. In this case, it is most accurately translated with the heart or soul meaning.
The second character is Dao as in Daoism. Please note, this is the same thing as Tao as in Taoism (just Romanized differently - it's always been the same in Chinese for about 2300 years.
義を見てせざるは勇なきなり is a Japanese proverb that means “Knowing what is right and not doing is a want of courage.”
I've also seen it translated as:
To see what is right, yet fail to do so, is a lack of courage.
To know righteousness, but take no action is cowardice.
You are a coward if you knew what was the right thing to do, but you did not take action.
Knowing what is right without practicing it betrays one's cowardice.
Note: Because this selection contains some special Japanese Hiragana characters, it should be written by a Japanese calligrapher.
友 is the simplest way to express the idea of friends or friendship in Chinese.
It can mean friend, companion, or pal in Japanese. In Korean, it can mean friend, companion, or associate.
This single character is open to interpretation, so it can mean different things to different people (not necessarily a bad thing, as you can decide what it means to you). If you want a more concisely-defined word, you should probably pick one of our multi-character friendship-related words.
See Also: Best Friends | Friendly | Friendship
善意 is a word that means good intentions, goodwill, or to things done in good faith in Chinese, Japanese, and old Korean Hanja.
It's the reason you do good deeds or the desire you have inside yourself to do the right thing.
This can also be translated as benevolence, kindness, virtuous mind, positive mindset, or favorable sense.
善意 is also used in the legal context for things done in good faith (regardless of outcome).
In Japanese, this can be the personal name Yoshi or Yoshii.
軍紀 means military discipline or military principles.
If maintaining your military discipline is important to you personally or important to your military unit, this is the wall scroll to have up behind your desk. In fact, it's the kind of thing I expect to see behind the desk of a First Sergeant or maybe a hardcore NCO.
Note: In some rare contexts, it could be extended to mean “morale,” but “discipline” is much closer to the commonly-held definition.
Note: This term is not well-known outside the military services in Asia (not used by the common person).
See Also: Self-Discipline
紅五蝠 is a play on words in Chinese because of some homophones.
The first thing you need to know is that the word for bat, 蝠, sounds exactly like the word for good fortune, 福. Thus, bats are often associated with good luck and good fortune in Chinese culture.
Five bats (五福 / 五蝠) means “five fortunes,” referring to luck, prosperity, wealth, happiness, and longevity.
The word red, 红, has the same sound as 宏 meaning vast, great, or magnificent. Therefore, a red bat means “vast fortune.”
Altogether, five red bats represent vast reaches of the five fortunes.
無法信任 is the kind of thing you expect to hear in a spy movie.
“Trust no one, 007!”
The first two characters express the idea of “no way” or “cannot.”
The last two characters mean “trust.”
The characters must go in this order due to Chinese grammar issues and in order to sound natural.
Note: This is not an ancient Chinese phrase by any means. It's just that we received a lot of requests for this phrase.
This is as close as you can get to the phrase “trust no man,” though technically, no gender is specified.
Integrity is living by your highest values. It is being honest and sincere. Integrity helps you to listen to your conscience, do the right thing, and tell the truth. You act with integrity when your words and actions match. Integrity gives you self-respect and a peaceful heart.
Please note that the second Kanji sometimes has an alternate form in Japanese. Let us know if you want the alternate form shown to the right.
Note: This entry is cross-listed as “honesty” because it also fits that definition.
Beyond Integrity, this word also means "upright" and "honest" in Chinese. Means "integrity," "honesty" or "frankness" in Japanese.
情義 means to love and honor in Chinese. 情義 is more or less the kind of thing you'd find in marriage vows.
The first character suggests emotions, passion, heart, humanity, sympathy, and feelings.
In this context, the second character means to honor your lover's wishes and treat them justly and righteously (fairly). That second character can also be translated as “obligation,” as in the obligation a husband and wife have to love each other even through difficult times.
In the context outside of a couple's relationship, this word can mean “comradeship.”
Japanese may see this more as “humanity and justice” than “love and honor.” It's probably best if your target is Chinese.
This is the short and sweet form, there is also a longer poetic form (you can find it here: Love and Honor if it’s not on the page you are currently viewing).
See Also: Love and Honor
五行太極拳 is a certain school or style of Tai Chi (Taiji).
The characters literally mean “Five Elements Tai Chi Fist.”
Notes:
In Taiwan, it would be Romanized as “Wu Hsing Tai Chi Chuan” - see the standard Mandarin method above in the gray box (used in mainland China and the official Romanization used by the Library of Congress).
The last three characters are sometimes translated as “Grand Ultimate Fist,” so the whole thing can be “Five Elements Grand Ultimate Fist” if you wish.
I have not confirmed the use of this title in Korean but if it is used, it's probably only by martial arts enthusiasts. The pronunciation is correct, as shown above for Korean.
I must first say that 現象 is an odd thing to put on a wall scroll in Asian cultures. It won't make a lot of sense alone unless you have a special or personal meaning that you attach to it for yourself.
These two characters mean phenomenon in Chinese, Japanese, and Korean Hanja. They can also be translated as “a happening,” depending on context.
The sum of these characters is a little different than their individual meanings. But I will break it down anyway...
The first character means present, existing, actual, apparent, now, or current.
The second character alone means pattern after, imitate, image, shape, sign (of the times), form, appearance, to be like, to resemble, to take after, to seem, or elephant.
(complete bodily devotion)
獻身 is used to describe being so devoted to something that you will make sacrifices for that goal/thing/person.
You can also translate this word as any of the following:
This can be a dedication to or for someone but is often used as a dedication or making sacrifices for your country, public service, or a cause. For instance, an Olympic athlete makes great sacrifices to train in his/her sport for their country and compatriots.
While the form shown to the upper-left is considered an ancient Japanese version, in modern Japan, they use the simplified version of the first Kanji (shown to the right). Click on the Kanji at the right instead of the button above if you want this modern Japanese version.
If you are looking for a more religious meaning of devotion, see Faith.
See Also: Confidence | Dedication
冰 is the Japanese Kanji for “ice” or “frost.”
冰 is also the way to write “ice” in old Korean Hanja.
Note: This form is not commonly used anymore in Chinese - though still understood for the most part.
FYI: There was a time when Japan did not have a written language and simply absorbed Chinese characters into their language by meaning. When this occurred around the 5th century, the character shown here was a common but alternate way to write “ice” in Chinese, so it was the one that ended up being absorbed into the Japanese language. Not long after that, a similar thing happened in Korea - although Korea has replaced virtually all of the Chinese characters they once used with the new Hangul writing system.
鴻鵠之誌 is a Chinese proverb that implies that having grand ambitions also means that others will not understand your great expectations and ideas.
Though the actual words come from a longer saying of Confucius, which goes, “The little swallows living under the eaves wouldn't understand the lofty ambitions of a swan (who flies far and wide).”
This Confucius quote has led to this idiomatic expression in China that means “think big.” What you'd be saying is “The lofty ambitions of a swan.”
Note that Chinese people sometimes refer to the little swallow as one who does not “think big” but is, instead, stuck in a rut or just leading a mundane life. Therefore, it's a compliment to be called a swan but not a good thing to be called a swallow.
If you like or collect and maintain koi fish, 錦鯉 is the wall scroll for you.
Technically, this is a certain and revered species of “koi fish” in Japan, but it is the most normal selection for a wall scroll (more normal than the actual Kanji for “koi” or “fish” alone.
This literally means “brocade carp” or “embroidered carp.” This term is also used to mean the same thing in China (which is the origin of koi fish breeding and cultivation, several generations before they became popular in Japan).
For those of you that don't know, the Kanji for “koi” (which is pronounced “goi” in this entry) really means “carp.” If you want the word that means “koi fish,” it would just be the generic word for “carp fish.” That would include both colorful carp and the more mundane gray carp (the ones people eat if they don't mind lots of bones).
先生 is sensei, which is associated in the west with a master or instructor of karate, aikido, judo, and other Japanese martial arts.
In reality, this is a term of respect for almost any professional or skilled person (doctor, lawyer, teacher, etc.). Sometimes, it is used for musicians and artists who have achieved a certain level of fame, skill, or accomplishment.
It should be noted that this is also a courtesy title in Chinese but more like calling someone “mister” or “gentleman.” It doesn't have the “master” or “teacher” meaning in Chinese - see our Chinese “Master / Sifu / Shi Fu” entry if your audience is Chinese.
In Korean Hanja, this means teacher, instructor, schoolmaster, or schoolmistress.
This entry is for educational purposes. 先生 is kind of a strange thing to put on a wall scroll. It's a title that is used more orally to show respect rather than something written in calligraphy. If you feel it is appropriate in your circumstances, we will create a piece of sensei Japanese calligraphy artwork for you.
Courage in the face of Fear
勇敢 is about courage or bravery in the face of fear.
You do the right thing even when it is hard or scary. When you are courageous, you don't give up. You try new things. You admit mistakes. This kind of courage is the willingness to take action in the face of danger and peril.
勇敢 can also be translated as braveness, valor, heroic, fearless, boldness, prowess, gallantry, audacity, daring, dauntless, and/or courage in Japanese, Chinese, and Korean. This version of bravery/courage can be an adjective or a noun. The first character means bravery and courage by itself. The second character means “daring” by itself. The second character emphasizes the meaning of the first but adds the idea that you are not afraid of taking a dare, and you are not afraid of danger.
勇敢 is more about brave behavior and not so much the mental state of being brave. You'd more likely use this to say, “He fought courageously in the battle,” rather than “He is very courageous.”
專心 makes a word that means “paying attention with your heart.”
It's often translated as “dedication,” as in “be absorbed in” or “concentrate one's efforts.” It's also used to mean “with the single mind,” “whole-heartedly,” “paying attention,” “undivided attention,” “concentration (-ed),” “engrossed,” “devotionally (listening/watching),” and/or “attentive.”
The first character means “for a particular person, occasion, or purpose,” “focused on one single thing,” “concentrated,” and sometimes, “special.”
The second character means “heart” or “mind” by itself.
My favorite translation, which comes from the Oxford Advanced Chinese/English Dictionary, is, “wholehearted devotion.”
If it seems like the meaning of this word is quite open, you are correct. The context in which the word is used matters a lot. It can mean different things depending on how you use it. This makes it kind of nice as you can decide what this means to you (within some limits). This is always positive in meaning, so even if a Chinese person reads it differently than you, it will still have a good meaning.
In Japanese, they tend to use a variation of the second character which has one less stroke. If you want your calligraphy written this Japanese form, please click on the Kanji shown to the right instead of the button above. Note: Japanese and Chinese people will recognize either form.
Also means: honor loyalty morality righteousness
義 is about doing the right thing or making the right decision, not because it's easy but because it's ethically and morally correct.
No matter the outcome or result, one does not lose face if tempering proper justice.
義 can also be defined as righteousness, justice, morality, honor, or “right conduct.” In a more expanded definition, it can mean loyalty to friends, loyalty to the public good, or patriotism. This idea of loyalty and friendship comes from the fact that you will treat those you are loyal to with morality and justice.
義 is also one of the five tenets of Confucius's doctrine.
There's also an alternate version of this character sometimes seen in Bushido or Korean Taekwondo tenets. It's just the addition of a radical on the left side of the character. If you want this version, click on the image to the right instead of the button above.
This is also a virtue of the Samurai Warrior
See our page with just Code of the Samurai / Bushido here
See Also: Judgment | Impartial | Confucius Tenets
劍 is pronounced “jian” in Chinese. When you say it, imagine that you are making the sound of a sword as it clashes with a metal shield. This might get you closer to the correct pronunciation in Chinese.
I actually wonder if this word came from the metallic ringing sounds of a sword in battle - but such knowledge is lost in history.
The sword is a symbol of a warrior. The one thing that a soldier in ancient China lived and died by. A warrior with his skills and sword proves himself of great value. A warrior who losses his sword instantly becomes worthless.
劍 is an excellent scroll for someone in the military (especially officers of all services - as well as enlisted NCO Marines since they still carry swords even if mainly for ceremonial purposes). Or perhaps someone who practices variations of kung fu or tai chi that involve weapons.
Please note that while this character is understood with the sword meaning in Japanese, you might be looking for the word “katana” which also means sword in Japanese but means “knife” in Chinese.
There are other ways to write sword, and here are a few...
If you are particular about the version you receive, please let me know when you place your order (Note: Special styles are only available from one of our master calligraphers).
Do not do to others what you do not want done to yourself
Some may think of this as a “Christian trait,” but actually, it transcends many religions.
This Chinese teaching dates back to about 2,500 years ago in China. Confucius had always taught the belief in being benevolent (ren), but this idea was hard to grasp for some of his students, as benevolence could be kind-heartedness or an essence of humanity itself.
When answering Zhong Gong's question as to what "ren" actually meant, Confucius said:
己所不欲勿施于人 or "When you go out, you should behave as if you were in the presence of a distinguished guest; when people do favors for you, act as if a great sacrifice was made for you. Whatever you wouldn't like done to you, do not do that thing to others. Don't complain at work or home.”
Hearing this, Zhong Gong said humbly, “Although I am not clever, I will do what you say.”
From this encounter, the Chinese version of the “Golden Rule” or “Ethic of Reciprocity” came to be.
The characters you see above express, “Do not do to others whatever you do not want to be done to yourself.”
See Also: Confucius Teachings | Benevolence
Literally: The Way or Road
道 is the character “dao” which is sometimes written as “tao” but pronounced like “dow” in Mandarin.
道 is the base of what is known as “Taoism.” If you translate this literally, it can mean “the way” or “the path.”
Dao is believed to be that which flows through all things and keeps them in balance. It incorporates the ideas of yin and yang (e.g. there would be no love without hate, no light without dark, no male without female.)
The beginning of Taoism can be traced to a mystical man named
Lao Zi (604-531 BC), who followed, and added to the teachings of Confucius.
More about Taoism / Daoism here.
Note that this is pronounced “dou” and sometimes “michi” when written alone in Japanese but pronounced “do” in word compounds such as Karate-do and Bushido. It's also “do” in Korean.
Alternate translations and meanings: road, way, path; truth, principle province.
Important Japanese note: In Japanese, this will generally be read with the road, way, or path meaning. Taoism is not as popular or well-known in Japan so Daoist/Taoist philosophy is not the first thing a Japanese person will think of when they read this character.
See our Taoism Page
Old Japanese / Traditional Chinese & Korean
萬歲 is the traditional Chinese, Korean Hanja, and ancient Japanese way of writing banzai.
In modern times, the first character was simplified in Japan and China. So you might want to select the other entry for universal readability.
While it has become a popular, if not an odd, thing to scream as you jump out of an airplane (preferably with a parachute attached), banzai is actually a very old Asian way to say “hooray.” The Japanese word “banzai” comes from the Chinese word “wan sui,” which means “The age of 10,000 years.” It is actually a wish that the Emperor or the Empire live that long.
Imagine long ago when the Emperor made a rare public appearance. 萬歲 is what all people would yell to their leader in respect.
So if you like it as a hooray, or you want to wish someone that they live for 10,000 years, this is the calligraphy for you.
Other translations include Cheers! (not the drinking kind), hurrah!, long live [name]!, and congratulations!
To other things with banzai in their names, I am still waiting for the promised sequel to Buckaroo Banzai.
Notes: Sometimes people confuse banzai with bonsai. A bonsai is a miniature tree. They have nothing to do with each other.
Modern Japanese Version
万歲 is the modern Japanese way to write banzai.
We've made two almost identical entries for this word, with just a variation on the first character. In the last century, 萬 was simplified to 万 in Japan and China. The new generation will expect it to be written as 万 but the old generation can still read the more traditional 萬 form. You must make your determination as to what version is best for you. If your audience is mostly Japanese, I suggest 万歲.
While it has become a popular, if not an odd, thing to scream as you jump out of an airplane (preferably with a parachute attached), banzai is actually a very old Asian way to say “hooray.” The Japanese word “banzai” comes from the Chinese word “wan sui” which means “The age of 10,000 years.” It is actually a wish that the Emperor or the Empire live that long.
Imagine long ago when the Emperor made a rare public appearance. This is what all of the people would yell to their leader in respect.
So if you like it as a hooray, or you want to wish someone that they live for 10,000 years, this is the calligraphy for you.
To other things with banzai in their names, I am still waiting for the promised sequel to Buckaroo Banzai.
Other translations: hurrah, long life, congratulations, cheers, live long.
Notes: Sometimes people confuse banzai with bonsai. A bonsai is a miniature tree. They have nothing to do with each other. Further, Bonzai is not a word at all - although it would make a great name for a calcium supplement for older people.
This poem was written almost 1200 years ago during the Tang dynasty.
It depicts traveling up a place known as Cold Mountain, where some hearty people have built their homes. The traveler is overwhelmed by the beauty of the turning leaves of the maple forest that surrounds him just as night overtakes the day, and darkness prevails. His heart implores him to stop, and take in all of the beauty around him.
First, before you get to the full translation, I must tell you that Chinese poetry is a lot different than what we have in the west. Chinese words simply don't rhyme in the same way that English or other western languages do. Chinese poetry depends on rhythm and a certain beat of repeated numbers of characters.
I have done my best to translate this poem keeping a certain feel of the original poet. But some of the original beauty of the poem in its original Chinese will be lost in translation.
Far away on Cold Mountain, a stone path leads upwards.
Among white clouds, people's homes reside.
Stopping my carriage I must, as to admire the maple forest at nights fall.
In awe of autumn leaves showing more red than even flowers of early spring.
Hopefully, this poem will remind you to stop, and “take it all in” as you travel through life.
The poet's name is “Du Mu” in Chinese that is: .
The title of the poem, “Mountain Travels” is:
You can have the title, poet's name, and even “Tang Dynasty” written as an inscription on your custom wall scroll if you like.
More about the poet:
Dumu lived from 803-852 AD and was a leading Chinese poet during the later part of the Tang dynasty.
He was born in Chang'an, a city in central China and the former capital of the ancient Chinese empire in 221-206 BC. In present-day China, his birthplace is currently known as Xi'an, the home of the Terracotta Soldiers.
He was awarded his Jinshi degree (an exam administered by the emperor's court which leads to becoming an official of the court) at the age of 25 and went on to hold many official positions over the years. However, he never achieved a high rank, apparently because of some disputes between various factions, and his family's criticism of the government. His last post in the court was his appointment to the office of Secretariat Drafter.
During his life, he wrote scores of narrative poems, as well as a commentary on the Art of War and many letters of advice to high officials.
His poems were often very realistic and often depicted everyday life. He wrote poems about everything, from drinking beer in a tavern to weepy poems about lost love.
The thing that strikes you most is the fact even after 1200 years, not much has changed about the beauty of nature, toils, and troubles of love and beer drinking.
Dedicated to One Thing
專用 is the dedication you might have to your job or a person.
Trivia: It is the same word used as an adjective in front of the word for “network” to say “dedicated network” in Chinese.
Please note: While this is a word in Korean, the meaning is private or “exclusive use.” So this is best if your audience is Chinese.
See Also: Devotion | Passion | Tenacious | Commitment
This in-stock artwork might be what you are looking for, and ships right away...
Gallery Price: $67.00
Your Price: $36.88
These search terms might be related to Thing:
Brief and to the Point
Eternal Energy / Eternal Matter
Even a Fool May Sometimes Come Up With a Good Idea
Idea / Concept
Idea / Thought
Idea / Thought / Meaning
Ironman Triathlon Event
Mind Over Matter
Mind Your Own Business
Phenomenon
Prosperous Business
Thought / Thinking / Idea
War Machine
The following table may be helpful for those studying Chinese or Japanese...
Title | Characters | Romaji (Romanized Japanese) | Various forms of Romanized Chinese | |
Fear No Man Fear Nothing | 無所畏懼 无所畏惧 | wú suǒ wèi jù wu2 suo3 wei4 ju4 wu suo wei ju wusuoweiju | wu so wei chü wusoweichü |
|
Nothing Nothingness | 無 无 | mu | wú / wu2 / wu | |
Nothing is Impossible | 何も不可能じゃない | nan mo fukanou janai nanmofukanoujanai nan mo fukano janai | ||
Forever In My Heart | 永遠に私の心の中に | ei en ni watashi no kokoro no naka ni | ||
Heroic Spirit | 英氣 英气 | yīng qì / ying1 qi4 / ying qi / yingqi | ying ch`i / yingchi / ying chi | |
Dignity Honor Sanctity Integrity | 尊嚴 尊严 / 尊厳 | son gen / songen | zūn yán / zun1 yan2 / zun yan / zunyan | tsun yen / tsunyen |
Let Us Try | 嘗試 尝试 | cháng shì chang2 shi4 chang shi changshi | ch`ang shih changshih chang shih |
|
Treasure | 寶 宝 | takara | bǎo / bao3 / bao | pao |
Shitsuke | 躾 | shitsuke | ||
Warrior for Peace | 和平武士 | hé píng wǔ shì he2 ping2 wu3 shi4 he ping wu shi hepingwushi | ho p`ing wu shih hopingwushih ho ping wu shih |
|
Time is more valuable than Jade | 不貴尺之壁而重寸之陰 不贵尺之壁而重寸之阴 | bù guì chǐ zhī bì ér zhòng cùn zhī yīn bu4 gui4 chi3 zhi1 bi4 er2 zhong4 cun4 zhi1 yin1 bu gui chi zhi bi er zhong cun zhi yin | pu kuei ch`ih chih pi erh chung ts`un chih yin pu kuei chih chih pi erh chung tsun chih yin |
|
Sorry Feel Apologetic Regret | 抱歉 | bào qiàn / bao4 qian4 / bao qian / baoqian | pao ch`ien / paochien / pao chien | |
Peaceful Warrior | 平和的武士 | píng hé de wǔ shì ping2 he2 de wu3 shi4 ping he de wu shi pinghedewushi | p`ing ho te wu shih pinghotewushih ping ho te wu shih |
|
Defense Defend | 防 | bou / bo | fáng / fang2 / fang | |
Forest | 森 | mori | sēn / sen1 / sen | |
Essence | 精髓 / 精髄 精髓 | sei zui / seizui | jīng suǐ / jing1 sui3 / jing sui / jingsui | ching sui / chingsui |
Queen | 女王 | jo ou / joou / jo o | nǚ wáng / nv3 wang2 / nv wang / nvwang | nü wang / nüwang |
Sweet Sweetness Charm | 甘味 | kanmi / amami / umami | gān wèi / gan1 wei4 / gan wei / ganwei | kan wei / kanwei |
Under the Protection of the Dragon Saint | 神龍庇護 神龙庇护 | shén lóng bì hù shen2 long2 bi4 hu4 shen long bi hu shenlongbihu | shen lung pi hu shenlungpihu |
|
Luo Raku | 駱 骆 | raku | luò / luo4 / luo | lo |
Training Drill | 訓練 训练 | kunren | xùn liàn / xun4 lian4 / xun lian / xunlian | hsün lien / hsünlien |
Clear Blue Sky | 青天 | seiten | qīng tiān qing1 tian1 qing tian qingtian | ch`ing t`ien chingtien ching tien |
Sparrow | 雀 | chie / suzume | què / que4 / que | ch`üeh / chüeh |
Treasure | 珍寶 珍宝 | chin hou / chinhou / chin ho | zhēn bǎo / zhen1 bao3 / zhen bao / zhenbao | chen pao / chenpao |
Bon Voyage | 一路平安 | ichiro heian ichiroheian | yī lù píng ān yi1 lu4 ping2 an1 yi lu ping an yilupingan | i lu p`ing an ilupingan i lu ping an |
Strong Healthy | 健やか | sukoyaka | ||
Fujin | 夫人 | fu jin / fujin | fū ren / fu1 ren5 / fu ren / furen | fu jen / fujen |
Knowledge of Ultimate Truth | 眞智 | masatoshi | zhēn zhì / zhen1 zhi4 / zhen zhi / zhenzhi | chen chih / chenchih |
Trust To Have Faith | 信賴 信赖 | shinrai | xìn lài / xin4 lai4 / xin lai / xinlai | hsin lai / hsinlai |
Stay Strong Iron Will | 鉄心石腸 | tesshin sekichou tesshinsekichou teshin sekicho | ||
Love and Honor | 深情厚義 深情厚义 | shēn qíng hòu yì shen1 qing2 hou4 yi4 shen qing hou yi shenqinghouyi | shen ch`ing hou i shenchinghoui shen ching hou i |
|
Tao Dao of the Heart Soul | 心道 | xīn dào / xin1 dao4 / xin dao / xindao | hsin tao / hsintao | |
Courage To Do What Is Right | 義を見てせざるは勇なきなり | giomitesezaruhayuunakinari giomitesezaruhayunakinari | ||
Friend Friendship | 友 | tomo | yǒu / you3 / you | yu |
Good Intentions Good Will Good Faith | 善意 | zen i / zeni | shàn yì / shan4 yi4 / shan yi / shanyi | shan i / shani |
Military Discipline | 軍紀 军纪 | gun ki / gunki | jūn jì / jun1 ji4 / jun ji / junji | chün chi / chünchi |
Five Red Bats | 紅五蝠 红五蝠 | hóng wǔ fú hong2 wu3 fu2 hong wu fu hongwufu | hung wu fu hungwufu |
|
Trust No One Trust No Man | 無法信任 无法信任 | wú fǎ xìn rèn wu2 fa3 xin4 ren4 wu fa xin ren wufaxinren | wu fa hsin jen wufahsinjen |
|
Integrity | 正直 | shoujiki / shojiki | zhèng zhí zheng4 zhi2 zheng zhi zhengzhi | cheng chih chengchih |
Love and Honor | 情義 情义 | qíng yì / qing2 yi4 / qing yi / qingyi | ch`ing i / chingi / ching i | |
Five Elements Tai Chi Fist | 五行太極拳 五行太极拳 | go gyou tai kyoku ken gogyoutaikyokuken go gyo tai kyoku ken | wǔ xíng tài jí quán wu3 xing2 tai4 ji2 quan2 wu xing tai ji quan wuxingtaijiquan | wu hsing t`ai chi ch`üan wuhsingtaichichüan wu hsing tai chi chüan |
Phenomenon | 現象 现象 | genshou / gensho | xiàn xiàng xian4 xiang4 xian xiang xianxiang | hsien hsiang hsienhsiang |
Sacrifice Devotion Dedication | 獻身 献身 | ken shin / kenshin | xiàn shēn xian4 shen1 xian shen xianshen | hsien shen hsienshen |
Ice Frost | 冰 氷 | koori / kori | bīng / bing1 / bing | ping |
Great Aspirations Ambition | 鴻鵠之誌 鸿鹄之志 | hóng hú zhī zhì hong2 hu2 zhi1 zhi4 hong hu zhi zhi honghuzhizhi | hung hu chih chih hunghuchihchih |
|
Koi Fish Nishiki Goi | 錦鯉 锦鲤 | nishiki goi nishikigoi | jǐn lǐ / jin3 li3 / jin li / jinli | chin li / chinli |
Sensei Master Teacher Mister | 先生 | sen sei / sensei | xiān shēng xian1 sheng1 xian sheng xiansheng | hsien sheng hsiensheng |
Bravery Courage | 勇敢 | yuu kan / yuukan / yu kan | yǒng gǎn / yong3 gan3 / yong gan / yonggan | yung kan / yungkan |
Devotion Dedication Attentive Focused | 專心 / 専心 / 耑心 专心 | sen shin / senshin | zhuān xīn zhuan1 xin1 zhuan xin zhuanxin | chuan hsin chuanhsin |
Justice Rectitude Right Decision | 義 义 | gi | yì / yi4 / yi | i |
Sword | 劍 剑 | ken / tsurugi | jiàn / jian4 / jian | chien |
Confucius: Golden Rule Ethic of Reciprocity | 己所不欲勿施於人 己所不欲勿施于人 | jǐ suǒ bú yù wù shī yú rén ji3 suo3 bu2 yu4, wu4 shi1 yu2 ren2 ji suo bu yu, wu shi yu ren jisuobuyu,wushiyuren | chi so pu yü, wu shih yü jen chisopuyü,wushihyüjen |
|
Daoism Taoism | 道 | michi / -do | dào / dao4 / dao | tao |
Banzai Wansui | 萬歲 万岁 | banzai / manzai | wàn suì / wan4 sui4 / wan sui / wansui | |
Banzai | 万歲 / 萬歲 万岁 | banzai | wàn suì / wan4 sui4 / wan sui / wansui | |
Mountain Travels Poem by Dumu | 遠上寒山石徑斜白雲生處有人家停車坐愛楓林晚霜葉紅於二月花 远上寒山石径斜白云生处有人家停车坐爱枫林晚霜叶红于二月花 | yuǎn shàng hán shān shí jìng xiá bái yún shēng chù yǒu rén jiā tíng chē zuò ài fēng lín wǎn shuàng yè hóng yú èr yuè huā yuan3 shang4 han2 shan1 shi2 jing4 xia2 bai2 yun2 sheng1 chu4 you3 ren2 jia1 ting2 che1 zuo4 ai4 feng1 lin2 wan3 shuang4 ye4 hong2 yu2 er4 yue4 hua1 yuan shang han shan shi jing xia bai yun sheng chu you ren jia ting che zuo ai feng lin wan shuang ye hong yu er yue hua | yüan shang han shan shih ching hsia pai yün sheng ch`u yu jen chia t`ing ch`e tso ai feng lin wan shuang yeh hung yü erh yüeh hua yüan shang han shan shih ching hsia pai yün sheng chu yu jen chia ting che tso ai feng lin wan shuang yeh hung yü erh yüeh hua |
|
Dedication | 專用 专用 | zhuān yòng zhuan1 yong4 zhuan yong zhuanyong | chuan yung chuanyung |
|
In some entries above you will see that characters have different versions above and below a line. In these cases, the characters above the line are Traditional Chinese, while the ones below are Simplified Chinese. |
Successful Chinese Character and Japanese Kanji calligraphy searches within the last few hours...
All of our calligraphy wall scrolls are handmade.
When the calligrapher finishes creating your artwork, it is taken to my art mounting workshop in Beijing where a wall scroll is made by hand from a combination of silk, rice paper, and wood.
After we create your wall scroll, it takes at least two weeks for air mail delivery from Beijing to you.
Allow a few weeks for delivery. Rush service speeds it up by a week or two for $10!
When you select your calligraphy, you'll be taken to another page where you can choose various custom options.
The wall scroll that Sandy is holding in this picture is a "large size"
single-character wall scroll.
We also offer custom wall scrolls in small, medium, and an even-larger jumbo size.
Professional calligraphers are getting to be hard to find these days.
Instead of drawing characters by hand, the new generation in China merely type roman letters into their computer keyboards and pick the character that they want from a list that pops up.
There is some fear that true Chinese calligraphy may become a lost art in the coming years. Many art institutes in China are now promoting calligraphy programs in hopes of keeping this unique form
of art alive.
Even with the teachings of a top-ranked calligrapher in China, my calligraphy will never be good enough to sell. I will leave that to the experts.
The same calligrapher who gave me those lessons also attracted a crowd of thousands and a TV crew as he created characters over 6-feet high. He happens to be ranked as one of the top 100 calligraphers in all of China. He is also one of very few that would actually attempt such a feat.
Check out my lists of Japanese Kanji Calligraphy Wall Scrolls and Old Korean Hanja Calligraphy Wall Scrolls.
Some people may refer to this entry as Thing Kanji, Thing Characters, Thing in Mandarin Chinese, Thing Characters, Thing in Chinese Writing, Thing in Japanese Writing, Thing in Asian Writing, Thing Ideograms, Chinese Thing symbols, Thing Hieroglyphics, Thing Glyphs, Thing in Chinese Letters, Thing Hanzi, Thing in Japanese Kanji, Thing Pictograms, Thing in the Chinese Written-Language, or Thing in the Japanese Written-Language.