* 始 (はじまる - hajimaru): This is probably the closest single kanji and is often used for the *beginning* of something, like the beginning of a story, a year, or a project. It implies a starting point.
* 開 (ひらく - hiraku): This means "to open" and can be used to describe the beginning of something like a ceremony, a meeting, or a store. It suggests the start of an event or activity.
* 発 (はつ - hatsu): This means "to start," "to begin," or "to develop" and is often used for the beginning of a journey, a movement, or a process. It implies initiation and movement.
* 起 (おこる - okoru): This means "to begin," "to rise," or "to occur," and might be used to describe the start of an incident, an event, or a problem. It indicates something coming into existence or action.
Therefore, you need to consider the *type* of beginning you're talking about to choose the most appropriate kanji. If you can provide context, I can give you a more precise answer.