村

Village

むら (mura)

JLPT N4

Interesting Fact

Story of 村 Kanji: 木 = Tree 寸 = hand/measuring hand (later associated with measurement or control) The idea was "land marked out around trees by human hands," which evolved into a settlement or village. Early villages often formed where there were trees for timber, shade, and water nearby.

Memory Trick

A wooden sign is nailed to a large tree. It simply says: 🏡 "Village →" Travelers know they've arrived. Whenever you see 村, remember the tree marking the entrance to the village.