Learning a new language can be an exciting and rewarding adventure. One of the fundamental aspects to grasp when diving into any language is how to count. In Japanese, there are a few different ways to count to ten, each with varying levels of formality and complexity. In this article, we will explore three of these methods – the standard counting system, the traditional method, and the Japanese sign language.

1. Standard Counting System

The most commonly used system for counting in Japanese is quite straightforward. Here’s how you can count to ten using basic numbers:

1. 一 (いち) – Ichi

2. 二 (に) – Ni

3. 三 (さん) – San

4. 四 (し / よん) – Shi / Yon

5. 五 (ご) – Go

6. 六 (ろく) – Roku

7. 七 (しち / なな) – Shichi / Nana

8. 八 (はち) – Hachi

9. 九 (きゅう / く) – Kyuu / Ku

10. 十 (じゅう) – Juu

This system is used in daily life situations and generally accepted in polite conversations.

2. Traditional Method

If you want to incorporate a more traditional aspect into your counting method, here is how you can count to ten based on established Japanese customs:

1. 一つ（ひとつ）- Hitotsu

2. 二つ（ふたつ）- Futatsu

3. 三つ（みっつ）- Mittsu

4. 四つ（よっつ）- Yottsu

5. 五つ（いつつ）- Itsutsu

6. 六つ（むっつ）- Muttsu

7. 七つ（ななつ）- Nanatsu

8. 八つ（やっつ）- Yattsu

9. 九つ（ここのつ）- Kokonotsu

10. 十（とお）- Toh

These traditional expressions for counting objects are highly rooted in Japanese culture and often used when dealing with small quantities.

3. Japanese Sign Language

Just like any other sign language, the Japanese Sign Language (JSL) is a major communication mode for deaf individuals. This method is helpful to learn as an alternative way to count to ten non-verbally:

1. Hold up your index finger, pointing upwards – Ichi.

2. Hold up two fingers (index and middle finger), forming a V shape – Ni.

3. Form a W shape with your fingers by raising the index, middle, and ring fingers – San.

4. Hold up four fingers, with the thumb folded inwards – Shi / Yon.

5. Hold up all five fingers on one hand – Go.

6. Use one hand to show five fingers, while holding up the thumb on your other hand – Roku.

7. Use one hand to show five fingers, then add two more by raising the index and middle finger of your other hand – Shichi / Nana.

8. Show five fingers on one hand while holding up three fingers on the other hand – Hachi.

9. Use one hand to show five fingers, then form a claw-shaped gesture with all four fingers on the other hand besides the thumb – Kyuu / Ku.

10. Make a fist with your left hand and form an X shape with your right arm placed over it – Juu.

Now that you know