Translation guide
The Japan Coast Guard is a government agency responsible for maritime safety, security, and law enforcement in Japanese waters. This entry explains how to refer to it naturally in Japanese.
海上保安庁
Japan Coast Guard
Referring to the Japan Coast Guard as an institution or agency.
The official name of the Japan Coast Guard. Used in formal, written, and spoken contexts.
海上保安庁は日本の領海を守っています。
The Japan Coast Guard protects Japan's territorial waters.
Common abbreviation of 海上保安庁, used in news headlines and casual conversation.
海保の巡視船が出動した。
A Japan Coast Guard patrol vessel was dispatched.
Referring to the people who work for the Japan Coast Guard.
A Japan Coast Guard officer. This is the official term for uniformed personnel.
彼は海上保安官になりたいそうです。
I heard he wants to become a Japan Coast Guard officer.
A staff member of the Japan Coast Guard, including non-uniformed personnel.
海上保安庁の職員が説明してくれた。
A Japan Coast Guard staff member explained it to me.
Referring to ships, aircraft, or other assets of the Japan Coast Guard.
Patrol vessel, the most common type of Japan Coast Guard ship.
巡視船が不審船を追跡した。
The patrol vessel pursued the suspicious ship.
A Japan Coast Guard helicopter. Often used in rescue operations.
海上保安庁のヘリが救助に向かった。
A Japan Coast Guard helicopter headed to the rescue.
In news reports, 海上保安庁 is often shortened to 海保 (かいほ). This is widely understood but less formal.