Ever felt so happy that you could barely stay still?
Like your heart is bouncing just thinking about what’s coming?
That’s when the Japanese onomatopoeia “Uki Uki” bursts out — a sound of pure, bubbling excitement.
What is “Uki Uki”?
“Uki Uki” is a Japanese onomatopoeia that expresses a cheerful, upbeat mood.
It’s used when someone is feeling super happy, excited, or full of anticipation.
It’s the sound of joy bubbling up inside you — light, bright, and hard to hide.
Pronunciation
oo-kee oo-kee
Categories
Emotion / Feeling
Examples in Daily Life
Example 1: Looking forward to the weekend
She checked the weather for Saturday — sunny and warm.
She was already uki uki just thinking about the picnic.
Example 2: Waiting for a friend at the station
He stood by the gate, uki uki, bouncing on his toes.
It had been a long time since they last met.
Cultural Note
In English, we say “I’m so excited!”
But Japanese can express that with just a sound: “Uki Uki!”
You’ll see it in manga when a character is skipping with joy or sparkling with anticipation.
It’s playful, light, and often shown with hearts or music notes around the character.
How Do You Say It?
Say it with a smile:
Uki Uki!
Say it while bouncing:
Uki Uki!
Say it like your heart is wearing a party hat:
Uki Uki!
What Does “Uki Uki” Look Like?
It looks like bubbles rising in a lemonade glass,
like a character with stars in their eyes,
like sunshine dancing on a puddle.
Watch & Feel the “Uki Uki” World!
Feel the “Uki Uki” — Joy in the Air
Experience “Uki Uki” through a cheerful moment.
The soft colors, the light rhythm, the gentle joy — it’s all there.
Even if nothing big is happening, “Uki Uki” captures the joy of little things:
a sunny morning, a good surprise, or just a happy heart for no reason.
Let your heart bounce along.
Try Using It!
When your plans make you smile all day…
When the weather is just right for your favorite dress…
When your heart feels lighter than usual…
Say it out loud or in your heart:
Uki Uki!
Comments