Frequently Asked Questions
How do I type Japanese characters?
This keyboard provides Hiragana characters. Click on the characters to type. For Kanji, you would typically use an IME (Input Method Editor) with romanization.
What is Hiragana?
Hiragana is one of three Japanese writing systems. It's a syllabary with 46 basic characters used for native Japanese words and grammatical elements.
How do I type Katakana?
Katakana characters may be available via Shift or a separate layer. Katakana is used for foreign words, emphasis, and technical terms.
How do I type Kanji?
Kanji (Chinese characters) typically require an IME system where you type in romaji (Roman letters) and select the appropriate kanji. This basic keyboard focuses on kana.
What's the difference between Hiragana and Katakana?
Both represent the same sounds but are used differently: Hiragana for native words and grammar, Katakana for foreign words and emphasis. Each has 46 basic characters.
Can I type in romaji (Roman letters)?
This is a Japanese character keyboard. For romaji, use the English keyboard. Most Japanese typing systems use romaji input that converts to kana/kanji.
How do I type small characters (っ, ゃ, ゅ, ょ)?
Small kana characters (sutegana) are used for double consonants and combined sounds. They're available on the keyboard, often via Shift or dedicated keys.
How do I type the long vowel mark (ー)?
The long vowel mark ー (chōonpu) is used in Katakana to extend vowel sounds. It's available on Japanese keyboards, typically on the top row.
What is the dakuten (゛) and handakuten (゜)?
Dakuten ゛ and handakuten ゜ are diacritical marks that modify kana sounds (e.g., か→が, は→ぱ). They're usually typed automatically with the modified character.
Can I type Japanese punctuation?
Yes, Japanese uses special punctuation: 。(period), 、(comma), 「」(quotation marks). These are available on Japanese keyboards.