japanese sailboat names

Wasen Mokei 和船模型

Modeling traditional japanese water craft.

Glossary of Japanese Boats and Terms

[Updated 4/15/23]

This is a list of terms relating to traditional Japanese boats, or wasen, that I’ve collected in my notes. This is not even close to being a comprehensive list, and the descriptions given are really quite basic. I’ve compiled this list from my own studies, and with the help of many others who are more knowledgeable than myself.

Yubune 湯船 – a bath boat from the Edo period.

Sources of information include the book Funakagami, books I’ve collected by Professor Kenji Ishii, the works of Douglas Brooks, information parsed from the Internet, and information I’ve gathered personally through visits to the Toba Seafolk Museum, the Urayasu Museum, the Edo Tokyo Museum, and the Ogi Folk Museum.

At some point, I hope to write more complete and detailed descriptions for each of the terms. Probably, this will happen one term at a time, as I learn about each one and study them in more depth. However, the list of boat types seems endless, and I have only a small number listed here. I have many more that are not in this list, so I will expand it over time.

I’ve grouped these terms in a way that seems most meaningful to me. I’ve sorted alphabetically where possible, but, more importantly, in order or relevance. Note that this page is under construction and will be revised as time permits.

For the boat types and general terms, I’ve tried to include the terms written in kanji (chinese characters adopted for the Japanese language). However, in many cases, I’ve only found the names written in katakana (one of two phonetic alphabets used in Japanese). Boatbuilding terms, in particular, seem most commonly written using katakana.

I include the Japanese text in order to make it easier to search the web for images and information. Simply copy the characters and past them into your web searches and you’ll find a lot more than simply using the romanized words.

General Terms

Wasen  和船- meaning “traditional Japanese boat”. A general term for any wooden boat of Japanese style.

Amibune 網船 – a general term for a net fishing boat.

Bezaisen  弁才船- a class of large coastal transport, of which there are several types.

Gyosen 漁船 also Tsuribune 釣船 – fishing boat.

Junkōzōsen 準構造線 – term for a boat with a semi-structured hull. This basically a mixed construction with a dugout hull forming the basis of the boat. Planking and beams are added to increase the capacity and sturdiness of the boat.

Kensakibune  剣先舟 – “sword-tipped boat” is a boat built without a stem for the cutwater. Instead the bow planks fasten directly together, creating a sharp-tipped bow. This style of construction appeared in the Yodogawa and Yamatogawa river areas. The type may also be referred to as Nimai Miyoshi, because the cutwater is made up from the two sheets of the hull planking coming together.

Kōzōsen   構造船 – boat with a fully planked hull, an evolutionary extension of the Junkōzōsen, with the dugout portion of the hull being replaced by planked structure. 

Kawabune  川船 – general term meaning riverboat.

Kuribune 刳船  – term for a boat with a dugout hull.

Sengokubune 千石船- meaning “1000 koku ship”. A common term for bezaisen.

Tsuribune  釣船 also  Gyosen 漁船 – fishing boat.

O-mawashi a general classification of boats designed long distance, sea voyages, such as bezaisen or sengokubune.

Ko-mawashi  a general classification of boats designed to operate on both rivers and seas, such as godairikisen.

Uchikawa-mawashi a general classification of river-going boats, such as chabune, chokibune, takasebune, etc.

Aganogawa Kawabune  阿賀野川川船- a long, narrow riverboat of the Agano river used in cast net fishing.

Ayubune  アユブネ – A term for a riverboat used in fishing a popular sweet fish called Ayu. The term is used in various regions of Japan and there is no single type of Ayubune.

Bekabune  ベカブネ or Beka ベカ- a one or two-person boat used in Tokyo Bay for shell fishing or gathering seaweed. The term might be used in other regions, as are the terms  Beka, Kawabeka,  and  Noribeka. Bekabune are sometimes carried aboard larger boats called Utasebune.

Chabune 茶船 – a general term for a small boat used for transport on rivers during the Edo period; the name refers to a small riverboat used for selling food and drink (Funakagami).

Chokibune 猪牙舟 – a river boat used as a water taxi during the Edo period. Most well know for carrying passengers to the pleasure district of Edo. Also known as a Sanyabune .

Choro  丁櫓 – This is a term used for a small, sculled boat. The usage of the term varies depending on region. In Mie prefecture, this type of boat was used close to shore for pole and line fishing and for catching sea cucumber.

Godairikisen 五大力船 – a large, local transport capable of operating on rivers or on the ocean.

Gozabune  御座船 – large boats used by aristocrats or high-ranking warriors. Often decorated for fesitvals. Built for use both on rivers and on ocean. Seagoing  Gozabune were essentially warships used to demonstrate a warriors prowess during peaceful times. River boats used for the purpose were called Kawagozabune .

Hacchoro   八丁櫓 – an 8-oar boat used for pole-and-line fishing of bonito. At one time, boats of this type from Yaizu were commissioned as escort boats for the Shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu.

Higaki Kaisen  菱垣回船 – A bezaisen of the Higaki trade guild, operated between Osaka and Edo (e.g. Naniwamaru).

Hiratabune  艜船 – Hiratabune is a general term for various cargo riverboats. On the Tonegawa, the name refers to a large riverboat from 50 to 80 feet long, similar to the Tonegawa takasebune . Long and narrow, flat bottom boat, used to transport freight. The largest had a capacity of 300 koku (Deal). Large hiratabune and takasebune can be easily confused due to their similar appearances, but hiratabune generally have a cutwater or stem.

Hobikisen  圃引き船 – a side-trawling fishing boat used on Lake Kasumigaura.

Honryou  ホンリョウ or Honryousen  – a small riverboat from Niigata prefecuture used for fishing and sometimes for carrying gravel.

Isanabune  鯨船 – An old term for a fast, multi-oared boat used for whaling. A more common term today is kujirabune.

Jarisen 砂利船 – Gravel hauling boat.

Kaidenma  or Kaitenma  櫂伝馬 –  an oar-driven cargo boat that is used in Shinto festival boat races, one of the events in the  Sumiyoshi Matsuri , the Shinto festival of the sea in Hiroshima prefecture, or the Oshima Minato Matsuri in southern Wakayama prefecture.

Kasaibune 葛西舟 – Fertilizer, or Night Soil, carrying boat.

Katsuobune カツオ船 – a boat used for bonito fishing. 8-oared variant is sometimes also referred to as a Hacchoro 八丁櫓.

Kitamaebune 北前船- a northern port bezaisen (e.g. Michinokumaru, Hakusanmaru).

Kōjisen   工事船 – Construction boat.

Kurawankabune or   kurawanka くらわんか船 – a local, informal name (and not a very nice one) for a chabune used on the Yodo river to sell food and drink to passenger boats.

Kujirabune 鯨舟 – a colorfully painted whale boat used in whale spear fishing from Shiroura, Mie prefecture. Same type of boat was used for pole-and-line fishing of bonito, and was called a Hacchoro 八丁櫓. (13.7m, 2.3m)

Marukibune   丸木舟 – a type of boat with a dugout hull. See the general type, Kuribune .

Marukobune  丸子船 – a traditional design unique to Lake Biwa. The name is apparently a reference to the round shape of the hull’s cross-section. The type was used extensively during the Edo period to carry cargo across the lake and features a heita-style bow with vertical stave planking, unique to Lake Biwa boats.

Mizubune  水船 – a water carrying boat (from Funakagami)

Mokaribune (see Zaimokubune )

Mossoubune  持左右舟- a tow boat used in whaling.

Nitaribune 荷足船 – a cargo boat used on the canals of Edo.

Nouninawase ノウニンアワセ – a Niigata rice field boat (tabune), sometimes used for hauling gravel.

Sandanbo  三反帆 – a small 3-sail (hence the name) riverboat used to ferry passengers on the Kumano river in Wakayama prefecture.

Sanjukokubune  or Sanjikkokubune 三十石船 – a 30-koku transport that was used on the Yodo river system for transporting passengers and goods. These boats provided regular, scheduled service between Ōsaka and Kyōto, with over 300 trips a day at its peak. Boats would leave Ōsaka in the morning and arrive in Kyōto in the evening, and would leave Kyōto in the evening, and passengers would sleep over night, arriving in Ōsaka in the morning.

Satsumagata サツマガタ – Literally, a Satsuma-style boat used for mackerel and marlin fishing on the west coast of Satsuma.

Sedoribune 瀨取り船 – a small boat for loading and unloading cargo from larger ships.

Sekobune 勢子舟 – a chaser-type boat used in whaling. See kujirabune.

Sobakiri-uri no fune そば切り売りの舟 – buckwheat noodle selling boat.

Sosuibune  疏水船　 – Literally, a canal boat. The term refers to a boat type developed in the late 1800s in the Lake Biwa region when canals were cut connecting Kyōto to Lake Biwa for transportation and drinking water. Sosuibune were used for carrying rice and firewood to Kyōto. The boats had a capacity of 30 koku and measured around 35 shaku in length and 6 shaku in width. These boats were built with the heita-style bow, common to boats on Lake Biwa.

Suzumibune 納涼舟 – a boat for enjoyin a cool evening breeze

Tabune  タブネ – a ricefield boat. Usually these were no more than large tubs pushed or pulled along flooded rice fields.

Takasebune  高瀬船 – long and narrow riverboat with a flat bottom, used to transport freight, typically. Large takasebune and hiratabune can be very similar in appearance, but takasebune generally have a flat bow with no cutwater.

Taraibune  たらい舟 – a one-person tub boat from the Niigata coast, most commonly from Sado island, used for inshore and shell fishing.

Tarubune 樽舟- a barrel retrieval boat used in whaling

Taru Kaisen 樽廻船 – a barrel carrying bezaisen, usually carrying sake or miso, but often carried other cargos.

Tenma  テンマ or Tenmasen 伝馬船- common term for a workboat or lighter.

Toamibune 投網舟 – a cast-net fishing boat.

Tosen  渡船 – a river ferry (from Funakagami).

Tsukimibune 月見船 – boat for moon viewing in Autumn.

Ukaibune  鵜飼船 or Ubune 鵜船- a cormorant fishing boat.

Uma-sen  馬船 – a ferry used for carrying horses, cattle, and carts.

Uma Tosen 馬渡船 or Saku Tosen   昨渡船 – double-ended ferry for carrying horses and cattle.

Urobune 売ろ舟 – a boat that sells something.

Urourobune うろうろ舟 – casual wandering boat. Selling light refreshment (drinks, watermelon) among pleasure boats.

Utasebune  打瀬舟 – Term for a side-trawling fishing boat. In Hokkaido, utasebune are small fishing boats with two masts, rigged with triangular sails. The ones used on Tokyo Bay are large boats with two masts, carrying square sails.

Uwanibune 上に船 – small boat for unloading cargo from a large anchored boat; lighter.

Watashibune   渡し船 – General term for a ferry boat.

Yakatabune 屋形船 – a large river-going pleasure boat with a deck house that could accommodate a large number of people for an afternoon or evening of entertainment.

Yanebune 屋根船 – a roof boat, like yakatabune, but smaller.

Yubune  湯船 – a bath boat (from Funakagami). A floating public bath typically used by cargo ship crews and dock workers (Deal).

Yuusen 遊船 – excursion boat, pleasure boat.

Yuusan bune 遊山船 – cruising boat, enjoying-life boat.

Zaimokubune 材木船 or Mokaribune – Lumber Boat. A raft-like boat used on Tsushima Island for harvesting seaweed.

Zutta Tenma – “crawling” workboat, Himi name for a tabune.

Atakebune  安宅船  – A large, lumbering, castle-like war vessel used during the Warring States period. Mounted with a large protected structure housing two or more decks, this was the largest type of Japanese warship. During the Tokugawa era, these ships were banned.

Sekibune   関船  – Used in the Warring States period, smaller and faster war vessel than the Atakebune. For this reason, they are sometimes referred to as Hayabune, or fast boat. It has a protected structure on the main deck, usually with some protection for those on the open top deck. During the Tokugawa era, the use of these ships was severely curtailed, though many daimyo used them as Gozabune – highly decorative personal yachts.

Hayabune 早船     – Fast boat. Because Sekibune are much faster than Atakebune, they are sometimes referred to as Hayabune. The term may also used for a boat used designed to race, such as the boats used in a ceremonial race on the Kumano river.

Kobayabune 小早船 or simply Kobaya  小早　- Small, fast boat. Small, is relative, and a 55-foot row galley is smaller than most Sekibune, so it is referred to as a Kobaya.

Parts of the Boat

These terms are very regional, so they may differ depending on the boatbuilder and the locale. In some cases, I’ve listed more than one term together, but there may be others as well.

Akaita – soft sheet copper

Ban バン – Himi term for a small deck at the bow. See Kappa.

Chigiri  チギリ or Chikiri チキリ- a wooden dovetail key used in various parts of Japan to fasten together adjoining planks or logs.

Chiri チリ – This is a term for a decorative board that covers the end grain of the hull planks at the stern on many boats.

Chyou チョウ – Toyama term for a central bottom board. See Shiki.

Donoma -The open deck space in the middle of the bezaisen.  

Funabari フナバリ – beam.

Funakugi  舟釪 or フナクギ – boat nails.

Furikake – lower side planks of a marukobune

Hako ハコ or Tomobako トモバコ – Toyama term for wedge-shaped box structures sometimes present behind the transom, connecting the garboard planks hull planks.

Haritsujiki – The haritsujiki was a book containing location specific directions for reaching specific destinations.

Hayao ハヤオ – rope attached to the ro, or sculling oar, to help control its motion.

Hayaoneko ハヤオネコ – wooden piece on the inside of the hull, to which the rope for the sculling oar is attached.

Heita – a style of bow construction found among many types of boats on Lake Biwa including the marukobune. A heita bow is constructed of sharply angled vertical staves, creating a rounded shape.

Ho 帆 – sail.

Hobashira 帆柱 – mast.

Hogeta  帆桁 – yardarm.

Hojirushi 帆印 – The black markings on the sail of the bezaisen that identify the ship’s owner.

Hozo   ほぞ – tenon.

Hozoana   ほぞ穴 – mortise.

Hozurikuda – The cable that runs from the top of the mast to the bow touches the sail when it is unfurled, so it is wrapped in a wooden sheath to avoid damaging the sail.

Ippon Miyoshi  本水押 – A type of bow where the hull planks fasten to a single stem to for the cutwater or miyoshi.

Jyabara 蛇腹 or Jyabara-gaki 蛇腹垣 – A fence made of woven bamboo that was temporarily attached to the hull of benzaisen to protect and hold cargo in place on deck. In the Meiji period, these became permanent fixtures.

Jyou-toma 常苫 – A temporary house structure erected on the deck of a benzaisen to shelter cargo.

Kai カイ – paddle.

Kaji 舵 – rudder.

Kajiki カジキ or Kanjiki  カンジキ – garboard planks. Sometimes called Nedana.

Kanzashi – mooring bits usually found near the ends of a beam – short post for tying of lines, often square tapered, with a faceted nob at the end.

Kappa カッパ – raised fore deck to protect from spray. See Ban.

Kasagi  カサギ – mast gallows

Kawara カワラ – bottom (also shiki)

Koberi コベリ- rubrail

Konagashi コナガシ or  Konaoshi コナオシ – triangular piece located behind the Miyoshi that effectively extends it underneath the bow of the boat, allowing the garboard planks to rise up at the bow.

Kotsunagi コツナギ – mooring beam

Magari マガリ – half frames supporting the hull planks. See Matsura.

Makinawa or Makihada – caulking bark of the maki tree

Marikuchi or Maruguchi  マリグチ – round hole in the stern beam for fitting a rudder.

Matsura マツラ – frame. See Magari.

Miyoshi 水押し or ミヨシ – stem, cutwater. This may further be identified by type. Ippon Miyoshi, 一本水押し, is a bow type in which the hull planks are attached to a stem. This is a very common type among wasen. Nimai Miyoshi, 二枚水押し, is a bow type in which there is no stem. Instead, the hull planks are fastened to each other creating a sharp bow. See the general term Kensakibune.

Muchugokaku – A type of foghorn powered by an attached bellows. Sounded when entering or exiting a harbor to alert nearby ships.

Nedana ネダナ – Lower, or garboard plank. Sometimes called Kajiki.

Nimai Miyoshi 二枚水押 – Type of bow where the side planks of the hull come directly together to for the cutwater or Miyoshi without the supporting stem that appears in the Ippon Miyoshi type bow. This type of bow appears in a boat type called a Kensakibune.

Nobori – a pole-mounted banner or flag, usually tall and rectangular

Omoki or Omogi   オモキ – a log carved out in an “L” shape forming the chine for a boat. The log planks of a marukobune.

Ro 櫓 or 艪 – a sculling oar

Rogui ログイ- the pivot pin for a sculling oar

Sagari 下がり- a tassle decoration found on the bow of some larger boats

Sao  竿 or サオ – a pole, in this case used for propelling a boat.

Sekidai セキダイ or Namigaeshi (波返し) ナミガエシ – boards fixed at the rubrail which extend out from the hull and run the length of the boat, used to improve stability in rough seas.

Shiki シキ – bottom (also kawara)

Shikiriita シキリイタ – floor timber

Tana タナ – planking strake.

Tatara タタラ – wooden nail fastener.

Tateita   竪板 – an end plank at either bow or stern.

Tatematsu タテマツ – a vertical support connecting upper and lower funabari.

Te-kaki テカキ – hand paddle (Tosa)..

Todate トダテ – transom.

Toko トコ or Ootoko オオトコ – stern beam (a heavy beam).

Tomo  艫 – the stern of a boat.

Tomobako  トモバコ – see Hako.

Tomo no ban トモのバン – Himi term for a small raised deck at the stern of a boat.

Tsunatsuke ツナツケ – a small beam located near the bow or stern for tying ropes to.

Uchimawashi – Whenever the yardarm is raised and lowered, this component fulfills the role of connecting it to the mast so that the yardarm can slide smoothly up and down the mast.

Urushi 漆 – a lacquer that is sometimes used for caulking or gluing wooden pieces together. The liquid comes from the sap of a tree that is related to poison sumac. Until it is cured, it is poisonous, an extreme irritant, and has to be handled very carefully.

Uwadana ウワダナ- shear plank.

Uwakoberi ウワコベル – caprail.

Wajishaku – A magnetic compass used by sailors to navigate the ship.

Yaho や帆 – fore sail.

Yahobashira や帆柱 – fore mast.

Yakata 屋形 – deck house or cabin

Boating and Fishing Terms

Gyomō 漁網 – Fishing net

Isomegane イソメガネ – a wooden box with a glass bottom, used to see into the water for spearing octopus, sea cucumber, abalone, etc. In Fukui prefecture, this type of fishing is called  Isomi.

Sendō 船頭 – Boatman.

Tsurizao 釣り竿 – a fishing pole.

Construction Techniques

Omoki-zukuri 面木造り – carved log construction style (see Kuribune), with planks or log-planks fasened together with wooden fasteners called  Chikiri.

Ita-awase – fitted plank construction.

Suri-awase – sawn plank fitting.

Kanna – plane

Kasugai – iron staples

Nokogiri – a common name for small handsaw

Nomi – chisel

Sumitsubo – ink line tool

Sashigane – flexible square made of thin steel

Sumisashi – bamboo pen with split, beveled tip

Surinoko – a type of handsaw

Toishi – waterstone

Tsubanomi – a sword-hilt chisel

Wakitori – a type of plane

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Related Links: Naming Convention of Japanese Navy Ships Naming Conventions of US Navy Ships, 1940-1945

Japanese Sailboat Brands

Last Updated by

Jacob Collier

August 30, 2022

Many Japanese boats are considered among the best in the business. If you are thinking about the best Japanese sailboat brands, you’re in the right place.

Japan is no stranger to the world of sailing. When it comes to investing in a sailboat, you might want to consider Japanese sailboat brands because their boats offer just the right mix of technology and ergonomic design, which is what sailing enthusiasts look for in boats.

From Mitsubishi to Ishikawajima-Harima, and Yamaha, there are many Japanese brands that are making a mark in the sailboat industry. These sailboats range from compact beginner vessels to luxury yachts for more experienced sailors.

Many Japanese brands produce a range of reliable boats for sailing newbies, as well as experts that can make the sailing experience comfortable and fun.

As sailing enthusiasts who have owned and sailed in many different types of sailboats, including Japanese sailboats, we are in the ideal position to help you make a more informed decision when it comes to choosing from Japanese sailboat brands.

Table of contents

‍ Japanese Sailboat Brands

There's no disputing that sailors are passionate individuals. They are so enthusiastic about sailboats that they’re always on the lookout to find the greatest ones. Many sailing enthusiasts fantasize about owning a sailboat, but few of us ever have the opportunity to cruise the seas on something we can truly call our own. While you can rent a sailboat, many sailors aspire to purchase one.

Gliding over the ocean, waves, and wind in the company of a beautifully made sailboat provides an unparalleled sense of comfort and calm. When you combine this with the fact that sailing takes you far away from the everyday grind that we've grown accustomed to, it's easy to see why sailing is so enticing to the people. However, without a decent sailboat, all of this enjoyment and the pleasures of sailing are lost.

Contrary to popular belief, buying a sailboat is not out of reach for everybody. It's something we can all accomplish. But, first, it's vital to understand some of the greatest sailboat brands. The greatest sailboat brands can make your sailing life smoother and more enjoyable. The top sailboat brands have perfected the skill of carpentry for decades, if not centuries.

What makes Japanese sailboat brands unique is that they've committed their abilities and a significant amount of time to developing and constructing the highest quality sailboats available. You've come to the correct place if you're seeking the top sailboat brands from around the world. We'll talk about the best options in Japanese sailboats, something that will provide you with a fantastic escape from your daily routine.

Ishikawajima-Harima Heavy Ind. Yachts

Yachts are constructed in Japan by Ishikawajima-Harima Heavy Industries. The shipyard has produced superyachts up to 77 meters long and 2200 tons, with an average of 56 meters long and 787 tons.  The company Ishikawajima-Harima Heavy Ind. launched a total of 5 superyachts and is showing no signs of slowing down any time soon.

IHI Corporation is a heavy-industry producer with four primary areas of focus: resource, energy, the environment, and defense. But, it has also garnered a reputation for its luxury yachts. IHI's origins date back to 1853, when the Ishikawajima Shipyard, Japan's first modern shipbuilding plant, was founded.

The firm was instrumental in Japan's modernization, utilizing its shipbuilding expertise in new fields, including plant construction, aero-engines, and heavy machinery manufacturing. Ishikawajima Heavy Industries joined Harima Shipbuilding & Engineering to become Ishikawajima-Harima Heavy Industries in 1960, the successor of Ishikawajima Shipyard. In 2007, the name IHI Corporation was chosen to promote the company's worldwide brand.

IHI is dedicated to making a positive impact on society via technology, integrating a wide range of engineering skills to fulfill the growing worldwide need for energy, urbanization and industrialization, and transportation efficiency.

One of the standout yachts of the company includes the Paloma. The luxury yacht is an incredible feat in yacht design; the vessel was built in 1965 at the Ishikawajima-Harima shipyard in Japan and measured 60.25m (197' 8"). The yacht was completely rebuilt in Malta in 2003-04 to the Owner's specifications.

The luxury yacht features some great amenities, such as comfy furniture and decor, a/v entertainment system, water sports equipment, a luxury on-deck Jacuzzi, and anchor stabilizers for a smooth stay aboard the luxury yacht.

During Paloma's renovation, she acquired new onboard systems as well as the majority of her interior and external equipment, including an entirely new engine room with cutting-edge engineering equipment and cutting-edge navigation and communication systems.

The interior décor is subtle modern English style, with a blend of rich, colorful materials complimented by her original wood paneling that adds to the warm and inviting environment. The main salon of the classic yacht Paloma is spacious, with many comfortable seating places, a wide sofa, bar facilities, an office room, and a giant Plasma screen television.

The formal dining space, which can be closed off, is located forward of the main salon. A plasma TV and music equipment are installed in an audio/visual recreation room placed ahead of the eating area. Paloma is a classic yacht with a large main deck, which is part of its aesthetic appeal and is the reason why Ishikawajima-Harima Heavy Ind, makes it one of the biggest names in the yacht world.

New Japan Yachts

New Japan Boat was founded in 1969 in Shirai, Makinohara City, Shizuoka Prefecture, and is currently one of the few domestic yacht builders. The company used to solely make yachts but expanded into the RV / camper sector, which has a lot in common with yachts. They've started doing interior work and selling components for campers, particularly outfitted cars.

Requests for different FRP-related items, such as FRP sinks, custom-made products, and shells for mobile sales vehicles, are also accepted by the company. The Libeccio is their best-selling yacht. Libeccio, a 26ft class representative boat, is a best-selling true cruising yacht capable of running in open waters.

The Group Fino design provides a superb combination of stability, operability, usefulness, and comfort that never gets old. A strong hull that has sailed the seas of Japan and a serene cabin made of teak. The most crucial but frequently overlooked subject once you leave the port is returning to the port. The company has solved this problem with its modern design and features.

Libeccio's hull stability is designed to provide high stability and sailing performance without adding additional weight. It is a critical feature that eliminates the anxiety of running in heavy winds while also reducing occupant fatigue. NJY's dedication to "hand lay-up" creates the hull by stacking without omissions. The hull liner is, of course, fully attached to the interior of the integrally molded hull.

It is one of the strongest hulls ever made, designed to withstand the worst sea conditions. The same manufacturing procedure is used for all NJY boats. The ability to quickly convert a small place to its intended purpose. This is a key consideration in this class and is what sets them apart as yacht builders. It is adjusted for optimum usage in any environment, from the living area to a navigation room, dining room to a luxurious bedroom.

Aoki Yacht is another big name in the world of Japanese sailboat building. The sailboat builder is known for its design of the Zen24, which is a class apart. The inspiration behind the design is clear, which is that it’s important to practice sailing with a single hand for a long period in order to develop your sailing skills. In 500 hours, a little difference in wind level may be noticed, and in 1000 hours, blind sailing is conceivable. Zen24 is a semi-custom sailing vessel, which makes that possible.

You may mix and match the fittings, equipment, and even the interior finish to suit your riding style. There are three standard kinds. To ensure a long life, an ISO-based weather-resistant polyester resin is employed, and a UV blocking layer is produced under the gel coat. The essential keel mounting portion is attached to the inner hull using a sturdy fastening mechanism. The firm has a dependable and straightforward fitting out to improve your sailing. The engine is capable.

Outboard motors and diesel inboard motors are all options for the powerplant. You'll feel fantastic while sailing alone on a yacht that is so quiet that you could go unnoticed. However, not only for skippers but also for convenient equipment, rapid weather changes might be a difficulty. When the weather suddenly changes, the captain runs out of room and mishandles the equipment. The halyard that goes to the cockpit is prone to errors. A single blunder sets off a chain reaction.

In this sense, the ocean's reality frequently falls short of expectations, so you will need the right boat for the job. Even if you are only sailing for the day, you may experience unexpected weather changes. It is safer to plan for unexpected weather changes, which is easy to do on this luxury yacht because of the many modern features that make it easy to navigate.

Complex fittings stymie the sailors’ ability to control the vessel, which is why this boat is extremely easy to use and maneuver. This is due to the fact that the reading of the wind and tides is updated in real-time, so you are not distracted while navigating. This is exactly what a skipper needs; it is a strategy that allows the boat to function at its optimum by employing basic fitting out to observe sails, wind, and currents, which the Zen24 allows sailors to do effortlessly.

Nishii Zosen KK/Sterling Yachts

The motor yacht Lady Orient is a 48-meter (158-foot) large carbon ship designed by Sterling Scott and built by Nishii Zosen Kk/Sterling Yachts. The motor yacht Lady Orient, which can accommodate 20 guests and 13 professional crew, was previously known as 687 Lady Kinara; her build project name, or yacht title was Asean Lady.

The naval architect engaged in the formal vessel composition for Lady Orient was Sterling Scott. Sterling Scott was also involved in the basic design work for this yacht. This boat was built by Nishii Zosen Kk/Sterling Yachts in the well-known yacht-building country of Japan. Before being given to the owner, she was successfully launched at Ise in 1983.

A total beam (width) of 8.23 m or 27 ft creates an impression of spaciousness. She is quite shallow, with a maximum depth of 2.74m (9ft). The hull of the motorboat was constructed using the material carbon. Carbon fiber is used to construct her superstructure above the hull.

Lady Orient can attain a top speed of 16 knots thanks to two Caterpillar diesel main engines. Twin-screw propellers are connected to the engines. Her overall HP is 2110, and she has 1553 Kilowatts. She uses Naiad as a stabilizer. The Lady Orient was built to accommodate up to 20 people. This ship can accommodate up to 13 passengers. This ship can accommodate up to 13 capable crew members, allowing for a relaxing luxury yacht holiday experience.

The luxury yacht Devotion was completed in 1986 at the Nishii Zosen Kk/Sterling yard and is 43.6 meters (143 feet) in length. As a result, she was proudly manufactured in Japan. Her former names were 688 Shalimar, Lindeza, and Marjorie Morningstar (s). Bannenberg Designs Ltd created an elegant external style. Sterling Scott created the naval architect design for the warship. The interior design was created by Arthur Fishman (1986) and Susan Puleo (1990). The superyacht hull was constructed using composite material, which makes the vessel more ergonomic.

The draught is 2.59 meters (8.5 feet), and the beam is 7.92 meters (26 feet). The superstructure is mostly composite up top. With a cruising speed of roughly 14 knots, Devotion has a range of over 2500 nautical miles under typical weather conditions. Her whole range is powered by her 60500-liter fuel capacity. The maximum number of visitors allowed at Devotion is nine. The boat can also accommodate up to 8 yacht crew members, ensuring a relaxing luxury yacht holiday.

Horizon Group

Horizon Group is the first Asian yacht manufacturer to use four separate subsidiary shipyards to manufacture its premium boats. Each yard adds a specific technique to the development, allowing for not just higher capacity but also a more efficient build operation overall, according to Horizon Group CEO John Lu's design. The shipyards may integrate and grow on each other's ideas and resources under Lu's group structure while emphasizing the spirit of artisanship.

Horizon is distinguished from other yacht builders by its flexibility in design and construction, which allows each boat to be modified to fit the unique owner's lifestyle. Horizon's devoted staff of highly experienced professionals makes this degree of personalization feasible. Horizon's specialized staff of highly competent yacht-building professionals would not be able to provide this level of personalization.

Mitsubishi Heavy Industries

Mitsubishi Heavy Industries has designed and built many luxury yachts over the years. Dubai Shadow was once known as Umitaka Maru's project/yacht Australis Mentor. Mitsubishi Heavy Industries built this 79-meter (259-foot) luxury yacht in 1973. The superyacht Dubai Shadow is a stunning vessel. Mitsubishi Hi is the naval architectural business that created the yacht's blueprints and overall arrangement.

Dubai Shadow is the support boat for the luxury superyacht, which was previously the world's largest superyacht. Dubai Shadow is a powerful and durable vessel meant to transport all of the extras that do not fit aboard Dubai, such as tenders, speed boats, toys, jet skis, and fishing and diving equipment. The Dubai Shadow also serves as a support vessel for additional supplies and lodging.

Mitsubishi Hi was the naval architect for Dubai Shadow's official superyacht design work. This project was also completed successfully by Mitsubishi Hi. She was officially launched in Shimonoseki in 1973, and after sea testing and final completion, she was handed over to the owner who commissioned her.

In Japan, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries completed the construction of a new motorboat. Steel was used to make the hull. The superstructure of a motor yacht is mostly built of steel. Dubai Shadow has an amazing interior capacity with a width of 12.4 meters (40.7 feet).

She has a 5.35m draught, which is rather deep (17.55ft). By 2006, she had completed refit improvements and modifications. A single screw propeller propels the Dubai Shadow. The yacht's primary engine produces 3304 horsepower (or 2475 kilowatts).

Hitachi Zosen Corp.

Hitachi Zosen Corporation is a major industrial and engineering corporation founded in 1881 in Osaka, Japan. The company has also been recognized for its sailboat designs, such as the company’s signature design, the yacht Mikado.

The sailing yacht Mikado is a 47-meter-long, 155-foot-long aluminum boat designed by William Garden and Martin Francis and built from the keel up by Hitachi Zosen rp. A spacious ketch motor sailer is a particularly unusual Japan-built superyacht that was launched to great acclaim in 1986. William Garden and Martin Francis were the naval architects that created the design for this ship. Parish-Hadley is also responsible for interior design. She is a ketch motor sailer in the conventional sense.

The naval architectural firm William Garden was engaged in Mikado's technical superyacht design. Parish-Hadley was in charge of her interior design. The boat design is also linked to William Garden and Martin Francis. William Garden and Martin Francis are also involved in the yacht's overall design partnership.

The yacht was designed and built in Japan by Hitachi Zosen rp. Before being given to the owner, she was successfully launched at Kanagawa in 1986. Aluminum was used for the primary hull, making the boat lighter. The superstructure of a sailing boat is mostly built of aluminum. Mikado is rather huge, with a width of 9.51 meters (31.2 ft). Her draught is 6.34 meters (20.8 feet) (20.8ft). In 2008, she had refit improvements and alterations made.

Mikado has been designed to reach a top speed of 12 knots thanks to twin GM diesel engines. Twin-screw propellers power her propulsion system. In addition, she has a driving range of 3000 miles. When traveling at her cruise speed of 11 knots, she has a range of 3000 miles. Her total HP is 972, and she has 715 Kilowatts. Vosper is her go-to stabilizer.

Kanawa Shipyard

The Kanawa Shipyard also has quite a few luxury yacht designs under its belt mainly because of collaborations with other world-renowned yacht designers. One such design is the Don Giovanni, a superyacht designed by the company in 1964.

The superyacht Don Giovanni can accommodate up to 6 guests along with a total of four crew members. Her rather conventional interior design was christened in the year 1964 and exemplifies the typical yacht setting from A Pistoia / S Caracci (Refit), which are the leaders in interior yacht design.

Kanagawa was the naval architect company in charge of Don Giovanni's technical superyacht design. Kanagawa was also a successful collaborator on this project. The general inside styling was chosen by interior designer A Pistoia / S Caracci (Refit).

She was successfully launched in Kobe in 1964, and after sea testing and final completion, she was transferred to the yacht owner. In Japan, Kanagawa Shipyard constructed a new-build motorboat. With a total beam (width) of 7.85 m or 25.75 ft, the sensation is adequate. Steel was utilized to construct the hull of the motorboat. Steel is used to construct her superstructure above deck. In 2009, more refit and upgrading work was completed.

The boat is powered by a nippon hatsudaku compressed air start engine. Twin-screw propellers propel her sheathed in skirts that double as the vessel’s rudders. The yacht's engine produces 1000 horsepower (or 783 kilowatts).

Yamaha Motors

Yamaha Motors was founded in 1955 in Japan. While the company is known for its motorcycles and other vehicles, including outboard motors, they have also made a name in the boating industry. Since its inception more than 50 years ago, the Yamaha Motor Group has been dedicated to the production of different values via manufacturing and services.

The Yamaha Motor Group is a firm that uses wisdom and enthusiasm to achieve people's ambitions, with the goal of offering fresh feelings and prosperous lifestyles to people all over the world, and is constantly expected to be "the next impression." It is clear that they want to be known as an amazing creative firm.

Yamaha has always strived to be a company that is new and impresses by offering new value. They have built unique goods and a wide range of products using a mix of energy and four main technologies: body/hull technology, control technology, and powertrain, just to name a few. The firm has expanded through expanding our business and creating demand for ourselves.

The electrification of mobility, the rapid growth of digital technology, and the rearrangement of numerous frameworks that follow it are all big developments in business trends. Under such conditions, modern technology, a diverse set of business foundations, and the capacity to mold ideas and concepts will be important driving forces.

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The Maru Ship: Japanese Ship Names Often End With “Maru” / マル・シップ〜日本の船名に「まる」がついていること〜

Many Japanese ships have a name with "maru" on the end. What is "maru" and why is it there? 日本の船の多くは「まる」という言葉が名前の最後についています。「まる」とはなんでしょうか、そしてなぜついているのでしょうか。

Why do Japanese ships have “maru” affixed to their names? (1)

The maru ship: japanese ship names often end with “maru”.

日本語は英文の下にございます。/ Japanese translation will be below the English text.

This is the first of the five posts on: Why do Japanese ships have “maru” affixed to their names? (1) Japanese Ship Names Often End With “Maru” => (2) “Maru” is a Symbol of Perfection => (3) “Maru” in the Names of Other Things => (4) How to Fend Off Your Baby From Demons => (5) Modern Japanese Ship Names and “Maru”

1) Japanese ships have names with “maru” in the end

The photo is a Japanese cruise ship named “Kaiwomaru”.

“Kaiwo” means “Sea King”, and “Maru” means a circle.

Did you know that, likewise, the names of a number of Japanese ships have the word “maru” on the end?

The presence of “maru” in Japanese ship names is well-known outside Japan, too. Some even call Japanese ships “Maru Ships” referring to the common suffix.

When you have an opportunity to visit a port in Japan, take a look at the ship names.

You will recognize “maru” easily in Romanization, and if it’s written in all Japanese, look for the Chinese character “丸” on the end. That is the character we pronounce “maru”.

Here are some examples (usually there is no hyphen before “maru”):

• Konpira-maru (“Konpira” is a god known as a protector of sailors)
• Kanrin-maru (“Kanrin” means harmonious mingling of a lord and his subjects. This was the first ship which crossed the Pacific Ocean and sailed to San Francisco at the end of the Edo Era.)
• Kachidoki-maru (“Kachidoki” means shout of victory)
• Sarubia-maru (Salvia is a flower name)
• Iroha-maru (“I-ro-ha” are the first three characters of hiragana people used to learn, an equivalent of “ABC” of English alphabet)
• Asahi-maru (“Asahi” means the morning sun)
• Riodejanero-maru (“Rio De Janeiro”), etc, etc…

2) What does “maru” mean?

The practice of adding “maru” to a ship name has been around for centuries. An older example:  Ninna-ji (a temple in Kyoto) keeps a document written in 1187 which refers to a ship called Bandoh-maru that they owned at that time.

But what does this “maru” exactly mean? The first meaning we think of is “a circle”.

Then why is it affixed to ship names? And why did the practice last for a such long time?

These questions have been the subject of research since the Edo Era (1603-1868), and there is no proven or established explanation for it.

However, it’s fun to compare different theories and just wonder, too. So, we would like to share them with you.

★ Please continue reading: => ”Maru” Is A Symbol of Perfection

[End of the English post]

なぜ日本の船名には「まる」が付くのか？（１）

「マル・シップ」〜日本の船名の末尾に「まる」がついていること〜, 1. 日本の船名の末尾には「まる」が多い.

写真は「海王丸」という日本の船です。

「海王」は海の王様、「丸」は円形のこと。

日本の船には、船名の末尾に「まる」という言葉がついていることが多いのを知っていますか？

この「まる」については国外でも知られていて、日本船は「マル・シップ」呼ばれることもあります。

日本の港を訪ねる機会があったら、船の名前を見てみてください。

ローマ字で「maru」と書いてあればすぐわかるし、日本語だったら「丸」という漢字を探してください。これを「まる」と読むのです。

船名の例をいくつか挙げます。

・金毘羅丸（金毘羅様は船乗りの守護神） ・咸臨丸（咸臨は、主君の親しい交わりのこと。この船は江戸時代末期に初めて太平洋を横断してサンフランシスコへ行った） ・勝鬨丸（かちどきは戦いの勝者の叫び） ・サルビア丸（サルビアは花の名） ・いろは丸（「い」「ろ」「は」は英語のA、B、Cのように、日本語を習う時の最初の三つの文字） ・朝日丸 ・リオデジャネロ丸（リオ・デ・ジャネイロ）

2. 「まる」とは何か

「まる」を船名に加えることは、何世紀も続く慣習です。ある古い例では、京都の仁和寺には1187に坂東丸という船を所有していた、とする書類があります。

でも、「まる」とは何を意味するのでしょうか。私たちが最初に思い浮かべるのは、円のかたちです。

では、なぜそれが船の名前についているのでしょうか。そして、なぜこの慣習がこんなに長く続いたのでしょうか。

この疑問は、江戸時代からの研究の対象で、今でも答えは出ていません。

でも、違った考えを比べてみるのも楽しいものですから、貴方と一緒に見て回ってみたいと思います。

★ 続きはこちら => 「まる」は完全の象徴

Modern Japanese Ship Names and “Maru” / 現代日本の船名と「まる」

Will the number of Japanese ships with "maru" increase or decrease in the future? We looked at a couple of lists and gave it a thought. 日本の「マル・シップ」は将来増えるでしょうか、減るでしょうか。一つ二つリストを見て、考えてみました。

How to Fend Off Demons From Your Baby / 赤ちゃんを魔物から守る方法

People in olden days tried very hard to defend their babies from being snatched by demons and gods to the other world, from dying. Here is one trusted way. 昔の人は、小さな子供たちが魔物や神々にさらわれないよう、死なないよう、さまざまに心を砕きました。その方法のひとつがこれです。

“Maru” in the Names of Other Things / 他のものにつく「まる」について

"Maru" also comes on the end of the names of other things than ships. What kind of things are they? 「まる」は船以外のものの名前の末尾にもつきます。どんなものでしょうか。

“Maru” Is a Symbol of Perfection / 「まる」は「完全」の象徴

"Maru" has several meanings. First, it means a circle and so it is a symbol of perfection. 「まる」にはいくつか意味がありますが、まず「まるい形」を表し、そこから、完全の象徴とされます。

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Multiple Meanings of “Maru” in Japanese (円、丸)

It’s not uncommon for one word in a language to have multiple meanings, but for non-native learners it can be challenge to figure out all the meanings from context. Japanese is no exception, although intonation (depending on region) and kanji selection can help to differentiate meanings in some cases.

In this post I want to talk about various common means of the word “maru”, which can be written with the kanji characters 丸 or 円, or simply in hiragana as まる.

The most basic meaning is simply “circle”, which is to describe a geometrical circle. The related adjective まるい (often written as 丸い) means “round”. By the way, a more formal way to say “circle” is 円形 (enkei).

“Maru” (◯) also has the connotation of being “correct” in Japanese culture, and the corresponding shape for “incorrect” would be an X, called “batsu” (✕). To see this in context, this could be a list of healthy and unhealthy drinks:

Two “maru” characters can also be used to express something that is not known, or to speak in a generic sense. For example, the below sentence describes how to greet a customer who enters a store or somesuch place of business.

• 客さんが入ってきたら「〇〇さん、いらっしゃいませ」と声をかけることです。
• When the customer enters, you should say to them “Welcome, Mr./Mrs. so-and-so”.

You would pronounce 「〇〇」 simply as “maru maru”. Another way to express the same idea is 「何々」 (nani nani).

“Maru” is also used in Japanese to censor words. For a family-safe example I’ll use the word おしり, which means “butt” and isn’t too offensive. This word could be written as:

I’ve seen such censoring used for words related other body parts and words considered dirty. Actually, just the other day I was surprised to find the title of a work published in a popular literary magazine was formed from two words, each of which was censored with a single “maru”.

“Maru” is also used traditionally as a suffix for Japanese boat names. Here is one example of a historically relevant boat from the Edo era:

• 安宅丸 （atakemaru)

I’ve read that the first boat known to use this practice was the 日本丸 (nipponmaru), another famous boat.

Finally, the common phrase “marude” (most often written in hiragana as まるで, or sometimes as 丸で) is used to compare something to be “just like” something else (a simile), but can also mean simply “not at all”.

• 今日はまるで冬のようだ (kyou wa maru de fuyu no you da)
• Today is just like winter.

By the way, it’s interesting to note that there are very few pure circles in Japanese writing except for the “handtakuten” （半濁点), which is the tiny circle in p-sound characters such as ぱ (pa). Kanji generally are formed from a series of lines, often horizontal or vertical but sometimes diagonal or curved. My guess is because writing a perfect circle takes much more time to write than a line, though perhaps there is a deeper reason.

(Update: After posting this article, I remembered that “omaru” means a small children’s toilet.)

I’ll close with a Youtube video of a song that I heard several years ago from a Japanese drama that I still can’t get out of my head (: It begins with the words “maru maru…”

(Stock photo of concentric circles in the featured image from Pexels.com )

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8 thoughts on “ Multiple Meanings of “Maru” in Japanese (円、丸) ”

Excellent entry!

While I was reading it I thought “hey this reminds me of Maru Maru Mori Mori” and of course I got the song stuck in my head…then…YOU EVEN REFERENCED IT AT THE END! 😀 😀

When I lived in Japan often my Eikaiwa students would arrive early or stay a little later while waiting for their parents to pick them up and one week they tried to teach me the song. After that class I downloaded an episode to put on my work laptop and for a few months when those students arrived early or stayed late we would play the song on the laptop and sing/dance along with it. Those are great memories 🙂

I’m glad you knew the song, and thanks for the nice story (:

I am not japanese thought (not even English very well). But I heard somewhere that maru at the end of an name means boy? Like Shikamaru – – – > Deer-boy Or Orochimaru – – – > Snake(?)-boy (it is an example)

In those cases I think “Maru” doesn’t have a deep meaning, it is just like a suffix for those names. I don’t think it means “boy”.

Isn’t it also used for 0, kind of like how O is used in things like 007?

It may be used for that, but personally I haven’t heard it much. In the case of “007”, it is typically pronounced ダブル・オー・セブン

I’ve also read that Maru has a connotation with something being manufactured and having an essence imbued with it from the act of creation.

This was referred to ships and Samurai swords. Made sense when I read it but it seems to have been entirely missed in the above explanations.

I’ve never heard that before. Can you give me a reference or source for where you heard that?

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Japanese Navy Ship Names

From Japanese Destroyer Captain, by Tameichi Hara (Naval Institute Press, 2013), Kindle Loc. 537-564:

Names of Japanese ships must sound strange to foreign readers. Many Westerners during the Pacific War called a Japanese ship “Maru.” It must be noted, however, that warships or other government ships do not have names ending with Maru. Maru has always been and still is used only for merchant ships or fishing boats. Maru literally means circle, round or chubby. In medieval Japan, Maru was frequently used for childhood names of boys. For example, in his childhood Hideyoshi Toyotomi, the famed warlord of the 16th century, often considered Japan’s Napoleon, was called Hiyoshi Maru, which may be translated literally as “chubby (or lucky) sunny boy”; and as a youth Yoshitsune Minamoto, the great 12th century general, was called Ushiwaka Maru, meaning “healthy and strong as a calf.” The Japanese people, by way of personification, came to add Maru to ship names. In the last 100 years Maru has been dropped from the names of all government ships. Japanese warships, like those of other nations, are classified so that all ships of a given type have names of the same category. Hence anyone familiar with the system can tell at once from its name whether a ship is a battleship, cruiser, destroyer, and so on. Japanese battleships were always named after ancient provinces or mountains. Famed Yamato was christened for the province of Japan’s most ancient capital city, Nara, in Central Honshu. This word was also used in ancient times to mean the whole country of Japan. This may explain the close attachment felt by the Imperial Navy for the greatest battleship ever built. Her sister ship, Musashi, was named after the province immediately north of Tokyo. Exceptions to this practice are Haruna and her sisters— Kirishima, Kongo, Hiei. Originally classed as battle cruisers, and named for mountains, they retained those names even after they were reclassified as battleships in 1930. Heavy cruisers were traditionally named after mountains, and light cruisers were given the names of rivers. Carriers usually bore poetic names having to do with flight. Hosho , the world’s first keel-up carrier, built in 1921, means “Soaring Phoenix.” Hiryu and Sory[u] , of the Pearl Harbor attack, may be translated “Flying Dragon” and “Blue Dragon,” respectively. Kaga and Akagi, which perished along with the two Dragons at Midway in June 1942, are exceptional names for carriers because Kaga is a province and Akagi a mountain. The explanation is that these ships were converted from a battleship and a cruiser. Submarines and sub-chasers had only numbers. Large submarines had the letter “I” for a prefix, while, the numbers of smaller ones were prefixed by “RO.” The numbers of sub-chasers were prefixed by the letters “SC.” First-class destroyers were given meteorological names such as Hatsuyuki (First Snow), Fubuki (Blizzard), Shimakaze (Island Wind), Amatsukaze (Heavenly Wind), Akitsuki (Autumn Moon), Fuyutsuki (Winter Moon), or Yugumo (Evening Cloud). Second-class destroyers were named for trees, flowers, or fruit such as Sanae (Rice Seedling), Sakura (Cherry) or Kaba (Birch). When a Japanese warship was scrapped, a new one often inherited the old name, but without any signifying numeral like “II.” Thus I served in two different ships named Amatsukaze.

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2 responses to “ Japanese Navy Ship Names ”

Excellent information!

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What does Maru Mean In Japanese Ship Names? (Merchant Ship Names)

The merchant ships of Japan usually contain the name ‘Maru’ meaning ‘Circle’

I’ve now written many articles on Truk Lagoon and its many World War II wrecks. The term Maru comes up more often than most other worlds, but what does Maru mean in Japanese ship names ?

The word Maru means circle or round and is a traditional suffix attached to Japanese ship names. The first ship known to follow this practice was the Nippon Maru.

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What does Maru mean in Japanese ship names?

Looking back at the history of Japanese ship naming convention , it appears that the very first ship to use the name ‘ Maru ‘ in its name was the ‘ Nippon Maru ‘.

This is not to be confused with the Nippo Maru , which was sunk in Truk Lagoon during Operation Hailstone during World War II, and sits with all the other Truk Lagoon wrecks there. The Nippon Maru was the flagship of Daimyō Toyotomi Hideyoshi’s 16th century fleet.

The meaning of the word ‘ Maru ‘ is ‘ Circle ‘. But the Japanese use the term in ship naming protocol to designate a merchant ship .

Most of the ships lying in Truk Lagoon that were sunk there during Operation Hailstone have names containing ‘ Maru ‘. This is because the Imperial Japanese Navy requisitioned hundreds of merchant ships during World War II. Mostly to transport supplies, troops, military vehicles and gunnery and ammunition.

In fact of all the ships that were sunk in Truk Lagoon, only three of them were actually purpose built Imperial Japanese (IJN) Navy ships. The rest were all requisitioned by the IJN and most use Maru in their names.

If you take a look at the Truk Lagoon wrecks map , you’ll see the number of wrecks that use Maru.’

Many ask what does ‘Maru’ mean in Spanish too, but the translation is also ‘Maru’ like it is in English.

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This list of  Truk Lagoon liveaboards is in descending customer rating order, followed by  Scuba Diving Luxury Rating  (SDE Lux Rating, see below) , so the liveaboards with the highest customer rating and the best  SDE lux rating  will be at the top of the list. If you want to change the list order, use the “ Sort by ” dropdown below.

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The Scuba Diving Earth Luxury Rating (SDE Lux Rating) is explained on each liveaboard review when you click the “Discover Liveaboard” link, and is my own Liveaboard Luxury Rating I’ve assigned to  all liveaboards . Choosing between liveaboards is helped by customer scores, and if you get stuck choosing between two or three liveaboards, where each one has a high customer score out of 10, you can use the SDE Luxury Rating to help narrow down your choice.

Think about it like using Booking.com when searching for the best hotel. Booking.com also use a customer score where each customer rates hotels out of 10. This is similar to the liveaboard customer rating, which is also rated out of 10. But let’s say you only like to stay in hotels rated 8 and above on Booking.com, but you also want the hotel to have WIFI or parking, or to have a swimming pool etc. The features each hotel has is usually secondary to the score out of 10.

I hope you enjoyed this article about what does Maru mean in Japanese ship names

I’d love to hear from you. Tell us about your adventures of diving and snorkeling, in the comments below. Please also share your photos. Either from your underwater cameras or videos from your waterproof Gopro’s!

If this article hasn’t answered all of your questions. If you have more questions either about  snorkeling or scuba diving  ( or specifically about what does Maru mean in Japanese ship names ), please comment below with your questions.

There will also be many more articles about scuba diving (and snorkeling) for you to read and learn about these fabulous sports.

Have fun and be safe!

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Russell Bowyer

Article written by Russell Bowyer who has been a scuba diver since diving on the Great Barrier Reef in Australia in 1989. After his first dive he trained as a BSAC diver in the UK. He attained his Diver Leader certification with BSAC. He then went on to become a scuba diving instructor, teaching others how to dive and was voted as Diving Officer and Treasurer for the Saffron Walden BSAC club too. Russell has dived all over the world, including the UK, on liveaboards in the Red Sea , the Caribbean, South Africa and the USA. Russell is experienced in all dive types, including drift diving, deep dives that involved decompression stops and recreational dives too.

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Japanese Boats

In Japanese, the traditional boat is known as the wasen. Wa means "traditional Japanese thing" and sen is one suffix meaning boat or ship. The word for boat in Japanese is fune; when attached to a modifying noun it gains a hard sound and become ....bune. I point out this usage since I use Japanese boat names in the text which follows.

I began researching traditional Japanese boat building in 1990. As of 2007, I have been to Japan twelve times, focusing my research on the boat building techniques and design secrets of the craft: techniques which have traditionally been passed from master to apprentice with almost no written record. In 1996 I apprenticed with the last man still building the taraibune (tub boat) of Sado Island, Niigata Prefecture; in 2000 I built a bekabune (seaweed gathering boat) in Urayasu, Chiba Prefecture; and in 2002-2003 I built three traditional boats, two in Tokyo and one in Aomori, as part of a research grant funded by the Freeman Foundation.

My articles and photographs have been published in magazines in the United States, Great Britain and Japan. I have one book, The Tub Boats of Sado Island; A Japanese Craftsman's Methods .

Please see my Research and Publications page for a complete list of my publications about Japan. You can also visit an online article I wrote about my research at: http://www.amateurboatbuilding.com/articles/building/japan/ japanese_boats.html

Designs of traditional Japanese boats have, in many cases, been passed down through generations, with small modifications. The craft has been an oral tradition, and where boat builders use drawings (known as itazu, always drawn on a wooden plank) these drawings are often incomplete. Drawings are sometimes a profile only, with perhaps the plank keel in plan view, or perhaps an expanded transom. But the boat builder preserves his secrets by memorizing key dimensions. The process of memorization is different for each individual. One of my teachers memorized two numbers: a single offset and a figure that he subtracted from that dimension. The result was another offset, which when subtracted by the same figure yielded the final offset. The frailty of this system is how easy it is to lose this knowledge as craftsmen disappear without apprentices.

Traditional Japanese boats are characterized by relatively thick planking and few, if any, frames. Where frames are not used, hulls are strengthened by athwartship beams which are connected to the hull with wedged mortise-and-tenons. Hulls are hard chine with a wide plank keel supporting two garboard planks, with two nearly vertical planks completing the hull. Planking is usually Japanese cedar with cypress often being used for beams, stem and transom.

Japanese boat nails are made of either soft iron or copper. They require a very precise hole: too tight and the nail bends, too loose and it does not hold. These nails are not round but flat, with the heads offset to one side. The iron nails are used to edge fasten planks to one another while the copper nails are driven through the hull and clenched over. These nails are all made by hand. The nails for my boats were made by a blacksmith in Yokohama. Sadly, this man passed away in 2005 and the firm will not be replacing him. To my knowledge this leaves one firm near Hiroshima as the only source of boat nails left in Japan.

Japanese boat builders do not use drills; instead special chisels called tsubanomi (sword hilt chisel) are used to cut holes for the nails. The hilt is used to hammer the chisel back out. A complete set of tsubanomi includes several sizes, curved chisels and special chisels for cleaning out the hole.

Where planks are edge fastened the seams are prepared using a method called suri awase (literally translated as "rub together," perhaps better translated as "reconcile"). Adjoining plank edges are planed and then placed edge-to-edge on blocks on the shop floor. Then the boat builder uses a special set of saws to cut through the seam. Woodworkers may be familiar with the technique of sawing through a joint to improve the fit, but here the sawing motion is critical. The saw must move parallel to the plank face at all times. In my apprenticeships (the tub boat, more coopering than boat building, does not utilize this method), this technique was by far the greatest focus of my instruction.

Just before assembly the planks are set upright and the edges are pounded in the center with a hammer to compress the fibers. This process too is more difficult than it appears. When I first used these methods I wondered why we were lavishing such attention on a seam that even if imperfect would swell tight in a matter of hours. When the planks were nailed together and the surfaces given their final dressing with a handplane I was stunned to see that, when done correctly, the seam is invisible. Also, the idea that a boat would leak at launch is an anathema to Japanese boat builders.

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Home » Based On Meaning » Common Japanese Ship Name

Common Japanese Ship Name

Japanese ship names carry a rich history and significance. In this article, we explore the common Japanese ship names that have sailed through time .

Importance of the Topic

The names of ships are not merely identifiers; they often reflect cultural, historical, or even aspirational values. In Japan, ship names have a unique significance. Let’s delve into why they matter.

What are the Common Japanese Ship Names?

Japanese ship names have a fascinating diversity. In this section, we provide a comprehensive list of unique and meaningful common Japanese ship names.

Common Japanese Ship Names (Table)

More Common Japanese Ship Names (Table)

Even More Common Japanese Ship Names (Table)

Now, please write “continue” to proceed to the next part of the article.

The Significance of Choosing Common Japanese Ship Name

The significance of naming ships goes beyond mere tradition. Ship names can shape the identity and personality of a vessel, setting the tone for its journeys. The names often reflect Japan’s deep connection to nature, culture, and history.

How a Name Can Shape a Ship’s Identity and Personality

In Japan, a ship’s name is not just a label; it’s a reflection of its character. For example, the name “Yushio Maru” (勇士王丸) embodies bravery and strength, instilling a sense of valor in the crew. On the other hand, “Mizuki Maru” (水城丸), meaning “Water Fortress Circle,” suggests a vessel that’s well-equipped and resilient.

The name also impacts the ship’s reputation. A well-chosen name can enhance a ship’s legacy, making it more memorable in maritime history.

The Psychological and Cultural Factors in Naming

Japanese ship names are deeply influenced by the country’s culture and traditions. Many names draw inspiration from nature, including elements like the sea, sky, wind, and animals. These names reflect Japan’s reverence for its natural surroundings and its maritime heritage.

Frequently Asked Questions

While many Japanese ship names carry cultural and traditional significance, they often blend tradition with practicality. These names reflect the ship’s intended purpose, characteristics, and even its owner’s aspirations.

Yes, ship names can change, especially when ownership changes or the vessel undergoes significant modifications. Changes may also occur for superstition, luck, or to align with new missions or identities.

Yes, ship-naming ceremonies are a part of Japan’s maritime tradition. These ceremonies often involve blessings from Shinto priests and prayers for the vessel’s safety and success.

Japan has a rich maritime history with several famous ships, including the “Yamato” battleship and the “Kaiyomaru” training ship, both known for their historical significance and unique names.

In conclusion, common Japanese ship names are not mere labels but carriers of tradition, culture, and identity. They reflect Japan’s deep connection to its natural surroundings, history, and mythology. Choosing a ship’s name is a significant decision that shapes its journey and legacy in the maritime world.

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What is the meaning of the word maru in the names of Japanese boats?

The names of many Japanese merchant vessels such as Nippon maru ( 日本丸 ) and Shonan maru ( 昭南丸 ) end in maru ( 丸 ), a Japanese word meaning "round". The earliest recorded instance of a ship with this name ending is the Bandou-maru ( 坂東丸 ) recorded in a document of the Niwaji ( 仁和寺 ) temple in 1187, during the Heian era (794-1185).

The word maru was also used in infant names of boys, yōmyō, yōmei ( 幼名 ), such as Ushiwakamaru ( 牛若丸 ), the infant name of Miyamoto no Yoshitsune ( 源義経 ), in the names of swords, such as Onimaru ( 鬼丸 ), one of the Imperial treasures, and parts of Japanese castles called kuruwa .

The origin of the maru in the names of boys is said by some to have come from a Japanese word for excrement, maro , or from potty, o-maru , in an effort to ward off demons by giving the child an unpleasant name. Another explanation is that it came from the similar maro ( 麻呂,麿 ), as in the name of the famous Ukiyo-e artist Utamaro ( 歌麿 ).

For the names of boats, multiple explanations have been proposed since the Edo period (1603-1867), including that it comes from the boy's name ending maru , or from the name ending maro ( 麿 ) used for objects of affection, or from the logs, maruta ( 丸太 ), used to build the boats, or from the round, tub-like shape of early vessels, or from the name of a Chinese figure, Hakudoumaru ( 白童丸 ), said to have descended from heaven and taught shipbuilding, or from the name of wholesalers, once known as monmaru ( 問丸 ), the "maru" of whose name was then transferred to the boats, or from the castle-like nature of the ships.

Names ending in maru were popular during the Edo period (1603-1867), and a Japanese shipping law of 1900 (Meiji 33) said "船舶ノ名称ニハ成ルベク 其ノ末尾ニ丸ノ字ヲ附セシムルベシ" (As far as possible, ships should be given names ending in the character "maru".)

Jim Breen's original answer In the 1905 edition of Basil Hall Chamberlain's "Things Japanese" he says of maru "It is often asked: what does the word Maru mean in the names of ships ...?" His answer is: the real meaning is obscure it is probably merging of two words: maru and maro , which was a term of endearment. it used to be used for swords, armour, parts of castles, etc. too.

Acknowledgements

This answer was originally contributed by Jim Breen, but has since been heavily edited.

Copyright © 1994-2022 Ben Bullock

If you have questions, corrections, or comments, please contact Ben Bullock or use the discussion forum / Privacy policy

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Japanese wooden boatbuilding: history and traditions.

In Western maritime histories, Japan is not generally viewed as a major maritime power. The usual standards for preeminence in this regard have been measured by the reach of a country’s exploration and trade or naval might. Japan’s problem is largely one of timing. It did not become a naval power until the twentieth century, and most Western scholars have interpreted Japan’s maritime importance in light of its reclusiveness—a perception magnified by the timing of European contact. The West’s great era of exploration encircled the globe just as Japan entered its famous 250-year period of exclusion—known as the Edo era—in which foreign travel by Japanese was banned, and contact with most foreigners, especially Europeans (except for the Dutch), was strictly controlled. It has often been written that to enforce these restrictions, Japanese shipwrights were required to build vessels that were inherently unseaworthy, yet another blow to Japan’s maritime reputation. They were never intended to sail out of sight of Japan’s shores. Instead, they sailed through a political and martime era that looked primarily inward, ignoring the horizon. (1)

Japan was an important maritime power in Asia before the Edo era, and even after the era began, for the first few decades of the seventeenth century as a major exporter of silver and copper. Although the Tokugawa shogunate did begin to adopt laws restricting sailing vessels from foreign voyages, there were no actual shipbuilding restrictions. Japanese vessels had, before that time, carried on extensive trade with the Ryūkyū Kingdom (modern- day Okinawa and other islands in the chain) and kingdoms in present-day Korea, China, Thailand, and Việt Nam. The ships that carried out this trade reflected technological influences from Japan’s Asian neighbors, as well as the influence of the Portuguese and Dutch, who had been sailing to Japan since 1543.

A series of edicts restricting trade, Catholic missionaries, and merchants known collectively as Sakoku between 1635 and 1639 eventually resulted in an official ban on all foreign travel by Japanese. Strictly controlled trade contacts with the Dutch, Koreans, Chinese, and Ainu (Japan’s aboriginal population, living mainly in Hokkaidō) were established, but Japan’s own European maritime trade with powers other than the Dutch was banned, and its Southeast Asian trade was only rarely allowed.

Japan’s geography, however, would ensure that the country would necessarily maintain and develop its ship and boatbuilding traditions. The Japanese archipelago is essentially a line of mountains with a relatively limited amount of arable land around the margins. Traveling through the country was difficult, but a few major rivers and Japan’s inland waters offered alternative trade routes to the steep slopes and thick forests of the interior. Furthermore, in seeking to limit the military power of its vassals, the shogunate placed restrictions on the use of carriages and the construction of large bridges. The seas surrounding Japan were the most viable highway for goods, and therefore, the maritime history of the Edo era is largely represented by the thousands of coastal traders that moved goods around the country and the tens of thousands of small boats involved in coastal fisheries.

The larger coastal sailing vessels were called bezaisen , the term seamen and shipowners tended to use. The literal origins of the name are vague but probably refer to vessel type— sen as a word ending means “ship”—and sometimes, the word is romanized as benzaisen . More specific terms for the coastal traders include kitamaesen , best translated as “northern coastal trader,” the type that sailed along the Sea of Japan coast to Hokkaidō. From the north, the most common cargo was herring, salmon, and kelp in trade for rice, salt, cotton, cloth, and sake from the mainland. The general public tended to refer to these vessels as sengokubune , literally “one thousand koku ship.” A koku, or about 330 US pounds, is a traditional Japanese unit of measure; one koku was considered to be the amount of rice it took to feed one person for one year.

While the design and construction of traditional Japanese boats and ships, collectively known as wasen (Japanese-style boats), reflect influences from mainland Asia, the Edo period’s isolation did allow boatbuilders and shipwrights to refine tools, designs, and techniques, creating some unique qualities found in Japanese boats.

Throughout the world, one can find a clear progression of boat development, from the dugout canoe of prehistory to semidugout construction (a dugout lower hull with planks added to the sides) to full plank construction. The same can be found in Japan’s interesting variants of small boats. Semidugout fishing boats can still be found today in the Tōhoku region of northern Japan, and in the 1990s, I interviewed perhaps Japan’s last professional builder of dugouts, a boatbuilder in Akita who last built three for fishermen in the 1960s. The Okinawan archipelago features an iconic boat called the sabani, a type of semidugout, and during my first apprenticeship in Japan in 1996, I studied with the last builder of the distinct taraibune, or tub boat, literally a large barrel used for inshore fishing on Sado Island.

The majority of wasen feature a horizontal plank keel generally twice as thick as the planking with a pair of wide bottom planks rising from the keel at a shallow angle. A pair of top planks run nearly vertical their entire length, meeting the bottom planking at a chine, or hard corner. Where wide planking is built up of several planks, the pieces are edge fastened to each other. In some parts of Japan, sawn frames are installed, but largely the strength of this type of construction rests in the hull itself. In lieu of frames, horizontal beams cross the hull at the chine and the sheer. The beam ends are either tenoned through the hull and wedged from the outside or locked in place with shouldered keys.2 Another feature of Japanese boats is the side planking aft, which often runs past the transom to form a chamber protecting the rudder.

Boatbuilders’ use of edge nails is not unique to Japan, but the technique is definitely highly refined there. Boat nails are made of flat steel, and the holes are cut with a special set of chisels. Today, there is only a single supplier of boat nails in business. This has put a strain on some craftsmen and shows how an important symbiosis exists between craftsmen and attendant crafts that supply their materials.

Another interesting feature of boatbuilding is the process of creating planking with a watertight fit. Using a series of saws, boatbuilders make multiple passes through the seams, a process called suriawase (the term combines the verbs “to rub” and “to assemble”). With each pass, the fit between planks become progressively tighter. Boatbuilders pride themselves on their ability to produce watertight boats without any use of caulking. Only older boats are caulked when they begin to leak.

In my apprenticeships, my teachers stressed the absolute need for me to master the techniques of edge nailing and suriawase. I spent long hours practicing both of these techniques, adhering slavishly to my masters’ instruction. For all five of my teachers, I was their sole apprentice, and each man in his own way communicated his desire to have me carry on his techniques and traditions. One of my teachers was a fourth-generation boatbuilder.

The apprentice system itself represents a major holdover of tradition within the craft of boatbuilding. Learning a craft via apprenticeship with a master is largely forgotten in the West, but in Japan, the notion is well understood and accepted. Unfortunately, Japan’s last generation of boatbuilders today is extremely old. A 2001 survey by the Nippon Foundation in Tokyo found that the average age of Japan’s wooden boatbuilders was sixty-nine. Most never taught apprentices since their careers took place against the backdrop of Japan’s meteoric emergence as one of the world’s largest economies. Furthermore, like practitioners of many crafts, boatbuilders protected their knowledge with an intense secrecy. Many boatbuilders worked entirely from memory, while those that made drawings of their boats left them intentionally incomplete. Even apprentices, unless they were their master’s sons, were kept in the dark, and the phrase nusumi geiko (stolen lessons) is well-known among craftspersons. Apprentices were forced to connive ways to learn crucial dimensions and ratios. One of my teachers told me he slipped back into the workshop at night with a candle and studied his master’s layout of lines.

The traditional apprenticeship was six years with little or no pay. There was no talking in the boat shop and almost no direct instruction. The apprentice was expected to observe the master and learn entirely through observation. A student might spend years just sweeping the shop and caring for the tools, but at the same time, he was expected to watch his master because when the day came for him to actually work on the boat, he was expected to know how to do it. I experienced this pressure with my teachers, and I can say that it certainly focused my attention!

While this type of instruction can seem bizarre or inefficient to the reader, the apprentice’s early months and years in the workshop are hardly wasted in the Japanese context. In order to succeed, the apprentice must learn patience and perseverance and hone his powers of observation. It is a values-based education, something understood to be absolutely necessary before the apprentice can begin to learn the craft. As arduous and inefficient as it may seem, this system produced craftsmen of remarkable skill.

With almost no written record, the craft of boatbuilding today is in real danger of being lost, along with many other traditional skills that have depended on the master-apprentice relationship for sustenance. My research has involved working alongside boatbuilders and recording their designs and techniques. I produce measured drawings of the boats I have built, and I hope to find venues in the future to teach these skills. I have also published the results of my research in magazines and two books. While my efforts to disseminate this information are an obvious break with tradition, the potential loss of a such a unique and refined craft culture strikes me as tragic.

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• See Dr. Hiroyuki Adachi’s book Nihon no Fune—Wasen Hen ( Ships of Japan—Indigenous Designs) (Tokyo: Museum of Maritime Science, 1998).
• A tenon is a square or rectangular pin cut into the ends of a beam, which fit into a corresponding mortise, or hole, cut into the face of the planking.
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Timeline for Sailboats Built In Japan

Posted by Michael Robertson | Boat Reviews

This article is relating to an article in the January 2014 issue.

• International Marine building wooden boats based on Herreshoff 28-foot design.
• Okamoto Shipyard building 35- and 40-foot wooden ketches designed by Garden and commissioned by Hardin.
• Clair Oberly founds Far East Yachts, builds wooden versions of the Alden/Oberly-designed Mariner 31 and Garden-designed Mariner 40.
• Bill Hardin shuts down Okamoto Shipyard, moves operations to Taiwan.
• Kawasaki Dockyard Company, Ltd. (later to become Kawasaki Heavy Industries) purchases both International Marine (which became TOA Yachts) and Far East Yachts (which became Far East Boats).
• Yamaha parlays its FRP expertise to begin building a few small (<15 feet) open boats.
• Far East Boats adds two boats to lineup: Garden-designed Mariner 35 and S&S design #1738, a 40-foot full-keel sloop.
• Far East Yachts builds first hull molds to begin fiberglass construction.
• Far East Yachts ceases construction of wooden boats.
• Far East Yachts introduces Mariner 31.
• Far East Yachts introduces Mariner 32.
• Far East Yachts introduces Mariner 40.
• Far East Yachts introduces Mariner 36.
• Kawasaki Heavy Industries shuts down Far East Boats and TOA Yachts.
• Fuji Yacht Builders builds a couple of one-off boats using Mariner 36 hull mold.
• Fuji Yacht Builders introduces Fuji 35.
• Fuji Yacht Builders introduces Fuji 45.
• Fuji Yacht Builders introduces Fuji 32.
• Yamaha introduces Finot-designed Y29 for sale in Europe.
• Yamaha introduces Y33, Y24, Y25 for sale in North America.
• Fuji Yacht Builders introduces Fuji 40.
• Yamaha introduces Y36.
• Fuji Yacht Builders ceases operations.
• Yamaha introduces Y35.
• Yamaha introduces Y30.
• Yamaha introduces Y37.
• Yamaha ceases exports of recreational sailboats.

Mariner, Fuji, and Yamaha sailboats built for export

About the author.

Michael Robertson

Before he was editor of Good Old Boat magazine, Michael Robertson and his family lived aboard and sailed around on their 1978 Fuji 40. For seven years they explored from Mexico's Gold Coast to Alaska's Glacier Bay to Australia's west coast.

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75 Classic Boat Names For A Timeless Adventure

Are you looking for the perfect name for your boat? Whether it’s a sailboat, powerboat, or something else, there are many that you can find. But if you’re looking for something that will never go out of style, then this article is for you!

We have compiled an extensive list of classic boat names that you can choose from.

Here is a list of classic boat names that have stood the test of time:

• Black Pearl
• Majestic Lady
• Lady of the Lake
• Blue Dolphin
• Morning Mist
• Dream Weaver
• Island Princess
• Pacific Pearl
• Enchantment
• Liberty Bell
• Thunderbird
• Southern Cross

These classic boat names will bring a sense of pride and joy to your boating experience. Whether your vessel is large or small, old or new, we hope these timeless classics inspired your search for a perfect moniker.

You may also find interesting some of the other lists that we have, specifically elegant boat names , classy boat names and regal boat names for a touch of royalty!

Happy Boat Naming!

Happy Sailing!

Japanese Boats & Ferries

Japan is an archipelago constituted of four big islands, Honshu, Hokkaido , Kyushu et Shikoku , and about 6,800 islands of more than 100m² surface. Boat is thus a widespread method of transportation for Japanese people as well as for tourists. Some small islands are only accessible by boat, such as Ogasawara archipelago in the south of Tokyo .

Moreover, boat rides on lakes offer wonderful views on Japanese mountains . Mount Fuji is surrounded by the Five Lakes region, and it is possible to cruise on Biwa-ko , the biggest lake in the country, near Kyoto .

Aside train or plane, boat is also a good choice to travel long distance, such as going to the southern islands from Tokyo or Osaka ’s ports. Ferryboats are then furnished to accommodate passengers for the night , with restauration and cabins, according to the chosen comfort class. National companies provide online tickets purchasing, most of the time in English language. Tickets can also be bought directly at the port’s ticket booth before boarding. If you have some time to travel, this method can help save quite a lot of money.

Ferries managed by JR company are included in the Japan Rail Pass , as it is the case for the ferry connecting Hiroshima and Miyajima from Miyajimaguchi.

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A Guide to Self Introduction in Japanese

Learn essential phrases you need to know to introduce yourself in japanese., i want to learn....

Let’s get you prepared to meet new people with a simple Japanese introduction, or jikoshõkai (自己紹介), which means ‘self-introduction’ in Japanese. Having this language knowledge will be extremely helpful for Japanese learners as it will help you establish yourself among Japanese friends and colleagues.

In this guide, we will look at the basic essential phrases first and then move on to variations of those phrases. You will also learn the proper etiquette and cultural pointers to help you introduce yourself well.

Basic self-introduction in Japanese

The three basic and essential phrases you need to know are as follows:

Hajimemashite (はじめまして) (Nice to meet you.)

[-name-] desu ([name] です) (I am [name].)

Yoroshiku onegaishimasu (よろしくお願いします) ( Please treat me well. )

Using these three phrases as one set is the most concise and also the best approach for your self introduction in Japanese. They should also be easy to remember, and they are just enough to introduce yourself in a polite manner.

Once you’ve mastered these three phrases, you will be all set. This may be much easier than what you were expecting, considering the stereotype of Japanese people as being extremely polite and having many rules for social interaction.

Although there are other versions of these phrases, we will first look at the basic phrases and discuss their cultural aspects. Let's have a look at each phrase one by one.

Hajimemashite (はじめまして)

When you meet someone for the first time, the very first word you need to start with is hajimemashite (はじめまして). This greeting word originates from the word hajimete , which means ‘for the first time.’ Hajimemashite would be the equivalent of ‘nice to meet you’ in English.

We say hajimemashite at the beginning of a self-introduction, and it is suitable when meeting anyone, regardless of age or status.

Stating your name

The simplest way to state your name is by saying “[name] desu. ” You can simply state your name and end with the word desu. A direct translation of this would be, “I am [name].”

Apart from this simple phrase, you can also use phrases such as “[name] to mōshimasu ” ([name] と申します). In this version, you are stating your name in a humble way – this is a version to keep in mind when you find yourself in more formal situations.

You may notice that there is no Japanese word for ‘I’ or ’my’ in these phrases. If you would like to include these words, you can say one of the following two sentences:

• Watashi wa [name] desu . (私は [name] です)
• Watashi wa [name] to mōshimasu. (私は [name] と申します)

Although it is not at all grammatically wrong to say ‘ watashi wa ,’ bear in mind that Japanese people rarely use ‘ watashi ’ in conversation as it is easily understood from the context. When introducing yourself, ‘ watashi wa ’ can be omitted to make it sound more natural to a native Japanese.

Yoroshiku onegaishimasu (よろしくお願いします)

Let’s now look into the phrase yoroshiku onegaishimasu . The word yoroshiku (よろしく) is an adverb that literally means ‘well.’ The expression onegaishimasu (お願いします) is used to ask someone to do something for you.

Therefore, yoroshiku onegaishimasu (よろしくお願いします) can be translated as “Please treat me well” or “Please take care of me.” Some even translate it as “Don’t be too harsh on me.”

This expression can also be used in situations other than self-introductions. For example, you can use it at the end of an email, especially in a business situation , as a way of signing off. Since it does not have a precise English translation, it might be difficult to grasp the meaning. It generally refers to an action that will take place in the future, and it expresses gratitude or a request in a polite manner.

In short, yoroshiku onegaishimasu (よろしくお願いします) is a phrase that you will encounter in a variety of situations, but for now just remember how it is used to introduce yourself.

A magic word of response

There is a magic word you can use as a response that is definitely worth remembering! The phrase kochirakoso (こちらこそ) is such a useful way to respond to expressions like yoroshiku onegaishimasu (よろしくお願いします).

Kochirakoso (こちらこそ) comes from the words kochira (こちら) and koso (こそ). The word kochira (こちら) is a demonstrative pronoun used to refer to something close to the speaker in a polite and humble manner. It can be translated as ‘me,’ ‘us’ and so on. The word koso (こそ) is a particle to emphasize the preceding word.

We use the phrase kochirakoso (こちらこそ) when we want to say the same thing someone just said to us. It is very similar to English phrases like ‘you too,’ ‘me too,’ ‘likewise,’ and ‘same here.’

When someone introduces themselves to you and ends their introduction with yoroshiku onegaishimasu , it is your turn to reply with this magic word.

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‘Nice to meet you’ in Japanese

We have already learned the phrase hajimemashite (‘nice to meet you’) as an essential phrase to know in a Japanese self-introduction. Hajimemashite is only used when you meet someone for the first time. But what if you want to express that you are happy to see someone again? For that, you can use one of the following expressions:

• Oai dekite ureshii desu (お会いできて嬉しいです)
• Ome ni kakarete ureshii desu (お目にかかれて嬉しいです)
• Ome ni kakarete kōei desu (お目にかかれて光栄です)

These can be literally translated as, “I am happy to be able to meet you.” This is a nice way to let someone know that you are delighted to meet someone for the first time or see them again.

The first expression, “ Oai dekite ureshii desu ,” is the most informal. The word oai (お会い) is a form of the verb aimasu (会います), which means ‘to meet’ or ‘to see’ someone. Dekite is from the modal auxiliary verb dekimasu (できます), which means ‘can’ or ‘be able to.’ And the phrase ureshii desu (嬉しいです) means ‘I’m happy.’

The whole expression implies that you have been wanting to meet this person as well. If you are meeting the person for the second time or more, you can add the word mata (また), which means ‘again,’ and say, “ Mata oai dekite ureshii desu ” (またお会いできて嬉しいです), meaning “I am pleased to see you again.”

The second expression, “ Ome ni kakarete ureshii desu ” (お目にかかれて嬉しいです), is slightly more polite, and “ Ome ni kakarete kōei desu ” (お目にかかれて光栄です)’ is the most polite of the three expressions.

Describing yourself

When you introduce yourself, you might want to add some more details about yourself. How can you do that? It is very simple. After you state your name, you can state your nationality, occupation, age or even your hobby. This is a good way for other people to get to know you better.

Just remember to end your self introduction by saying, “ Yoroshiku onegaishimasu ” (よろしくお願いします).

For ways to talk about your hobbies, take a look at our guide to hobbies in Japanese .

Stating your nationality

There are two ways of stating your nationality or where you are from.

One way is to mention the name of your country and add the word jin (人). For example, you could say ‘American’ as ‘ amerika jin ’ (アメリカ人), ‘British’ as ‘ igirisu jin ’ (イギリス人), and so on. You just need to remember how to say your country’s name in Japanese.

Another way to state your origin is to use the word shusshin (出身), which means ‘originated from’ in English, and form one of the following sentences:

Shusshin wa tōkyō desu. (出身は 東京です) (I’m from Tokyo.)

S husshin wa igirisu no rondon desu. (出身は イギリスのロンドンです) (I’m from London, England.)

As you can see, when we use the word shusshin (出身), we can mention not only our home country but also our hometown.

“How are you?” in Japanese

Asking someone “How are you?” is a simple greeting commonly used in English, and it can be a good phrase to start a conversation. You may be tempted to ask “How are you?” in Japanese as well, but this is not common as it is considered slightly too direct or unnatural. Especially with new people you meet, you should never ask this question as it may sound rude. It can only be used when you know the person and have not seen them for a while.

If you do ask this question, be aware that it is considered polite in Japan to express humility, so even if the person feels great, you may receive a modest answer such as 'so-so.'

It’s important to keep in mind that asking “How are you?” in Japanese is not just a matter of language knowledge or translation. Instead, it’s a matter of understanding the nuance and cultural context properly. Sometimes, direct translations do not fit the cultural context.

Japanese introduction etiquette

Bowing is a necessary and natural gesture among Japanese people when they meet each other, which you may find quite awkward in some situations. Therefore, you may need to prepare yourself for this particular gesture of greeting.

There are plenty of rules concerning bowing as etiquette in Japanese culture, ranging from the degree of bending to the position of your hands. It is almost impossible to simplify the description of proper bowing.

As a Japanese language learner, the most important thing is to express your courtesy towards others and show a positive attitude towards Japanese culture. So don’t worry too much about the perfect bow, and instead focus on expressing your sincerity.

With that being said, there are few gestures that you might want to avoid when bowing. Bowing continuously many times gives an impression of silliness or rudeness, and talking while bowing would not make a good impression. Keep these points in mind to avoid being perceived as rude.

Wrapping up

Hopefully by now you are confident in knowing how to give a proper self introduction in Japanese. By using the three simple phrases and following the pointers we mentioned, you will have no trouble making a good first impression on the people you meet.

As a reminder, here are the essential key phrases to introduce yourself in Japanese:

[name] desu ([name] です) (I am [name].)

Yoroshiku onegaishimasu (よろしくお願いします) (Please treat me well.)

With these simple phrases, I hope you will meet a lot of new people and establish wonderful relationships with them. Time to go out and meet people!

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