Sign Language Translator

Japanese Sign Language (JSL)

Japanese Sign Language (JSL) is a stable, indigenous sign language used by the Deaf community in Japan. It serves as the first language for many Deaf individuals and has developed naturally within this community. JSL features regional dialects as well as generational and stylistic variations. It is a separate language from spoken Japanese, with its own structure and vocabulary.

About Japanese Sign Language

Japanese Sign Language (日本手話, Nihon Shuwa) is the native sign language used by the deaf community in Japan. Unlike written or spoken Japanese, JSL has its own grammar and syntax, making it a complete and distinct language rather than simply a signed form of Japanese.

Learning JSL can help bridge communication gaps and promote inclusivity. This gallery provides a visual reference for common signs used in everyday communication.

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Hello in Japanese Sign Language
こんにちは (Hello)
Right hand open, palm facing forward, raised to head level.
Thank you in Japanese Sign Language
ありがとう (Thank you)
Touch your chin with fingertips of one hand, then extend forward.
Yes in Japanese Sign Language
はい (Yes)
Closed fist with thumb extended, nod up and down.
No in Japanese Sign Language
いいえ (No)
Index finger wagging side to side.
Please in Japanese Sign Language
お願いします (Please)
Both hands together in prayer or asking position.
Name in Japanese Sign Language
名前 (Name)
Index and middle fingers of both hands coming together.
Food in Japanese Sign Language
食べ物 (Food)
Hand motion mimicking eating from bowl to mouth.
Water in Japanese Sign Language
水 (Water)
W handshape tapped at chin, like drinking.
Family in Japanese Sign Language
家族 (Family)
Both hands showing connection and group.
Friend in Japanese Sign Language
友達 (Friend)
Two index fingers coming together side by side.
Work in Japanese Sign Language
仕事 (Work)
Both fists making alternating downward motions.
School in Japanese Sign Language
学校 (School)
Both hands open, palm down, moving up and down.

Japanese Sign Language Alphabet

Learn the Japanese Sign Language alphabet with our comprehensive visual guide below.

あ in sign language

あ in sign language

あ in sign language

あ in sign language

う in sign language

う in sign language

え in sign language

え in sign language

お in sign language

お in sign language

か in sign language

か in sign language

き in sign language

き in sign language

く in sign language

く in sign language

け in sign language

け in sign language

こ in sign language

こ in sign language

さ in sign language

さ in sign language

し in sign language

し in sign language

す in sign language

す in sign language

せ in sign language

せ in sign language

そ in sign language

そ in sign language

P in sign language

た in sign language

ち in sign language

ち in sign language

つ in sign language

つ in sign language

て in sign language

て in sign language

と in sign language

と in sign language

な in sign language

な in sign language

に in sign language

に in sign language

ぬ in sign language

ぬ in sign language

の in sign language

の in sign language

は in sign language

は in sign language

ひ in sign language

ひ in sign language

ふ in sign language

ふ in sign language

へ in sign language

へ in sign language

ほ in sign language

ほ in sign language

ま in sign language

ま in sign language

み in sign language

み in sign language

む in sign language

む in sign language

め in sign language

め in sign language

も in sign language

も in sign language

や in sign language

や in sign language

ゆ in sign language

ゆ in sign language

よ in sign language

よ in sign language

ら in sign language

ら in sign language

り in sign language

り in sign language

る in sign language

る in sign language

れ in sign language

れ in sign language

ろ in sign language

ろ in sign language

わ in sign language

わ in sign language

を in sign language

を in sign language

ん in sign language

ん in sign language

FAQs About Japanese Sign Language

Is Japanese Sign Language different from ASL?

Yes, 🇯🇵 Japanese Sign Language (JSL) is completely different from 🇺🇸 American Sign Language (ASL). They have different grammar, vocabulary, and cultural influences. JSL is uniquely rooted in Japanese language and culture.

Does Kimiko use Japanese Sign Language?

If you're referring to a character named Kimiko (e.g., from *The Boys*), yes she communicates using a version of Japanese Sign Language in the show. However, the signs may be adapted or fictionalized for storytelling.

How common is Japanese Sign Language?

JSL is used by tens of thousands of Deaf and hard-of-hearing people in Japan. While exact numbers vary, it's an established and recognized part of the Deaf community in Japan.

How do you say "yes" in JSL?

👍 To say "yes" in JSL, make a fist with your dominant hand and nod it downward, mimicking a head nod.

Can you learn Japanese Sign Language without knowing Japanese?

Yes, but knowing Japanese helps. While JSL is a language of its own, some signs are influenced by Japanese words or grammar. Still, you can learn JSL independently, just as people learn any second language.

Is Japanese Sign Language the same as English?

No. JSL is not based on English and has completely different signs, sentence structure, and cultural context.

How do you say "sorry" in Japanese Sign Language?

🙏 Bring your hand into a fist and gently rub it in a circular motion over your chest similar to the universal sign for apology.

How to say "I love you" in Japanese Sign Language?

❤️ Cross both arms over your chest like a hug. Alternatively, point to yourself ➡️ then to the person ➡️ and make a heart gesture with both hands. This is widely understood and affectionate.

How to say "thank you" in Japanese Sign Language?

🙇‍♀️ Extend your hand out from your chin, palm facing up similar to a polite bow gesture. It’s graceful and respectful.

What is Japanese Sign Language called?

Japanese Sign Language is called 日本手話 (Nihon Shuwa) in Japanese.

What does patting someone's head mean in Japanese Sign Language?

🧠 This gesture can have different meanings based on context, but in JSL, gently patting the top of the head may signify “child” or can also be an affectionate gesture. It’s important to be aware of the cultural context.

How do you say "how are you?" in Japanese Sign Language?

🙂 Point to the person and use the facial expression for concern or care while using a motion like a question mark. JSL relies heavily on facial expressions for conveying emotions and tone.

How do you say "hello" in Japanese Sign Language?

👋 Use a simple wave near your face with a slight bow. This is a polite and common greeting in JSL.

How do you say "idiot" in Japanese Sign Language?

🤦 The sign can vary by context, but be cautious: using derogatory terms can be offensive. Always prioritize respectful communication when using any sign language.

How do you say "stupid" in Japanese Sign Language?

😓 Like "idiot", this varies and should be used carefully. Usually, it involves a flicking motion near the forehead, but it depends on tone and facial expression. Avoid unless necessary, especially with strangers.

How do you say "moron" in Japanese Sign Language?

🙅‍♂️ Similar caution applies while there may be signs for insults, they should be used responsibly. Sign languages also carry social and emotional nuance.

How do you say "hi" in Japanese Sign Language?

👋 A casual wave with a smile works just like "hello" simple, friendly, and universally understood in the Deaf community.