棋 Japanese Chess

Radical Combination

• 木

  Tree
• 其

  Crab

Meaning

Primary

Japanese Chess

Alternatives

Shogi, Go

Mnemonic

Next to a tree, you find a crab playing Japanese chess (aka shogi). Hey, why not? In New York people play chess in the park, and in Japan crabs play shogi next to a tree.

Sometimes this also means go, which is a different strategic board game from China. Kind of confusing, but just think "strategic East Asian board game" and you're in the right territory for this kanji.

Hints

Anyway, picture this tree crab using its claws to set up the shogi pieces. It looks so experienced and confident. Then it fixes its beady, intimidating little eyes on you, raises its big claw, and makes a "come here" gesture. A challenge?

Readings

On’yomi

き

Kun’yomi

ご

Nanori

None

Mnemonic

If you can beat the tree crab at a game of Japanese chess, it'll give you key (き). What kind of key? The key to whatever treasure you desire. Pretend you're in a crab- and shogi-based JRPG, and this crab is the final boss. A magic key is a fitting reward, right?

Hints

Imagine beating the crab at shogi and receiving, with due reverence, the key it bestows on you. Heft it in your hands: it's heavy and made of gold. What will you open with this key?