Translation guide
A shop that sells materials and tools for home improvement and do-it-yourself projects.
Where is the nearest DIY store?
A large store selling building materials, tools, and home improvement supplies.
The most common and natural term for a DIY store or home improvement center in Japan. It covers a wide range of products from lumber to gardening supplies.
I bought paint at the DIY store on the weekend.
A direct loanword from English, understood but less common than ホームセンター. Often used for smaller, specialized DIY shops.
I got my tools at the local DIY shop.
Literally 'Sunday carpenter shop'. An older or more traditional term, rarely used today. Might be seen in older signage.
That DIY store has already closed down.
A smaller shop focusing on tools, fasteners, and hardware rather than full home improvement.
ホームセンター is the go-to word for large chains like Cainz, Komeri, or Viva Home. It's understood by all Japanese speakers and covers everything from lumber to pet supplies.
You can get lumber cut at the home center.
I looked for a power drill at a professional tool store.