Originally published on metropolis.co.jp on February 2013
相合傘
あいあいかさ
ai ai kasa
When it comes to romantic expression, school age Japanese kids are no different than their Western counterparts. Mostly. Instead of a simple mathematical expression (John + Jane = Forever), they use an “umbrella of togetherness” to lay bare their true feelings.
Similar to many kanji, this doodle is a pictogram. It’s just like writing your name next to the other person’s and bringing them closer. Aw.
相
ai
Together, mutually, fellow (can also be read as “saga” meaning one’s nature or destiny)
合
ai
To come together, unite
傘
kasa
Umbrella
