Convert Point (pt) to Ken (ken) instantly.
About these units
Point (pt)
A point is a typographic unit traditionally equal to 1/72 of an inch (in digital typography) or 0.352777 mm. Historically, however, the point system varied widely across regions and printing houses. In the era of metal movable type, each foundry often produced its own proprietary sizes, making typefaces and point values incompatible between printers. The modern point was standardized largely due to the demands of the publishing industry and later digital systems, especially PostScript and desktop publishing software. The point became essential because typography requires extremely fine control over letter height, line spacing, and layout—far beyond what conventional measurement systems could easily express. Designers and typesetters rely on points to specify the sizes of fonts, the spacing between lines (leading), and the thickness of rules or strokes. In digital environments, the point remains foundational even though screen resolutions vary. Software uses points as virtual units that are converted into pixels depending on display density. Thus, the point bridges the traditional world of print with modern digital rendering, maintaining continuity in the long history of written communication.
Ken (ken)
The ken is a traditional Japanese unit of length, typically about 1.8 meters, though historically it ranged from 1.6 to 1.9 meters depending on the era and region. The ken is deeply tied to traditional Japanese architecture, especially temple and shrine construction. In classic building design, the ken measured the spacing between pillars in wooden structures. Because Japanese architecture emphasizes modularity and harmonious proportions, the ken allowed builders to create spaces that were both structurally efficient and aesthetically consistent. Many tatami room layouts are also derived from ken-based proportions. Beyond architecture, the ken carried symbolic importance in religious and cultural contexts. Temples were often laid out using ken multiples, reinforcing a sense of order, symmetry, and sacred geometry. Even though modern Japan uses the metric system, the ken persists in the restoration and preservation of historical buildings.