[For Seniors] Looks readable but you can't read it! Fish Kanji Quiz

Last updated:2025/7/2

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There are many kanji characters that represent fish, and a lot of them are pretty difficult, aren’t they?

Do you know which kanji are used for the fish you usually eat, like sushi, sashimi, or grilled fish?

Unless you’re a real fish enthusiast, there are probably some you don’t know.

In this article, we present a kanji quiz about fish.

We’ve gathered kanji for a variety of fish, starting with familiar ones you often see at the dining table.

Of course, the goal is to get the answers right, but what’s really important in a quiz is the thinking process!

It’s perfect for older adults.

It also works as brain training, so have fun and give it a try!

[For Seniors] Looks Readable but You Can’t Read It! Fish Kanji Quiz (1–10)

How do you read/pronounce “河豚”?

Porcupinefish
pufferfish
crucian carp

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pufferfish

In China, where kanji originated, they lived in freshwater rivers, so the character for “river” (河) was used. It’s also said that the character for “pig” (豚) was applied because their bellies puff up and their calls sound like “boo-boo.”

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How do you read the character '鰤'?

yellowtail
Skipjack tuna
Suzuki

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yellowtail

It is said that this character was chosen because December, known as Shiwasu in the old lunar calendar, is when it comes into season, and because it signifies having grown to reach the position of a teacher, that is, a “shi.”

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How do you read the character “𩸽”?

Skipjack tuna
flatfish
Atka mackerel

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Atka mackerel

It is said that the character for “flower” was used because when they are juveniles, their body color is very beautiful, and when they form schools, they look like flowers.

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How do you read/pronounce “柳葉魚”?

shishamo (smelt; a small saltwater fish commonly grilled in Japan)
piranha
bitterling

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shishamo (smelt; a small saltwater fish commonly grilled in Japan)

Willow leaves are called Susuhamu or Shushuhamo in the Ainu language, which then became Susamo or Sushamo and is said to have eventually turned into “shishamo.”

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