Quick answer
向 is the kanji for "Face". It is a JLPT N3 kanji. The main reading is む.く (muku). Stroke-order practice is available below.
Meaning
Face
Also : Defy · Facing · Approach · Confront · Direction
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Readings
kun = Japanese reading · on = Chinese reading
Practice writing
Trace the kanji stroke by stroke with a visual guide.
Stroke Order
6 strokes
Radicals
Memory Aid
The kanji 向 represents 'YONDER'. Think of this shape as a picture representing the concept of yonder.
On-reading: こう — sounds like 'ko' in 'coat'. Kun-reading: む.く.
Example Sentences
目標に向かって努力を続けます。
もくひょうにむかってどりょくをつづけます。
I'll continue making efforts toward my goal.
外向きな姿勢で仕事をしています。
そとむきなしせいでしごとをしています。
I work with an outward-looking attitude.
Vocabulary using 向
Grammar to study at this level
- [Verb dictionary/nai form] + ように～ように (you ni) - So that
- [Verb dictionary form] + ことにする～ことにする (koto ni suru) - Decide to
- [Verb dictionary form] + ことになる～ことになる (koto ni naru) - It has been decided that
- [Noun/Verb te-form] + ばかり～ばかり (bakari) - Only / Nothing but
- [Verb/Adjective plain form] + はずだ～はずだ (hazu da) - Should be / It is expected
Last updated Jun 11, 2026
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