The Japanese surname “Saito,” while quite common, is associated with a multitude of kanji variations. In Japan, names like “斎藤” (Saito) or “齊藤” (also Saito) are frequently used, but even locals often grapple with the correct kanji. The confusion arises not only from the choice between “齋” and “齊,” but there are over 80 additional variations of characters that can also represent the same sound.

Recently, Japanese manga artist Bonro Aoki shared a comic on his personal account on X, illustrating this very dilemma. When typing “saito” phonetically, he discovered several similar yet distinct kanji options pop up on his screen—such as “斎藤,” “齊藤,” and “斉藤.” He found the inconsistencies puzzling, especially when some characters unexpectedly included the letter “Y.”

Upon further investigation, he learned that the pronunciation “saito” indeed corresponds to an astonishing 85 different kanji representations. This complexity traces back to the early days of Japan’s family registration system, where clerks, unfamiliar with the precise writing of “齋,” often introduced various similar yet slightly different characters.

Netizens have chimed in on this revelation, expressing surprise at the existence of 85 variants. Comments included thoughts like, “Shouldn’t ‘斉藤’ and ‘渡辺’ just be standardized?” and “If public servants made errors in writing these names, they ought to own up to it.” Others echoed sentiments regarding the perplexing inclusion of “Y,” with some even noting that other characters like “藤” also exhibit subtle distinctions based on parts or angles. Those with the surname “Saito” themselves may find this whole situation quite bewildering.