Translation guide
In Japanese, the most common word for 'bookstore' is 本屋 (ほんや). However, there are several other terms that differ in formality, size, and whether they sell new or used books. This guide helps you choose the right word depending on the context.
Referring to a typical bookstore that sells new books, often small or medium-sized.
I bought a magazine at the bookstore in front of the station.
A more formal term for 'bookstore', often used in names of stores or in written language. Can refer to a bookstore within a larger building.
That bookstore is open until 10 p.m.
Referring to a large bookstore, often part of a chain, with multiple floors and a wide selection.
Referring to a store that sells second-hand or antiquarian books.
Referring to the book section or bookstore within a department store, shopping mall, etc.
Means 'book section' or 'book department'. Used when the bookstore is not a standalone shop.
Let's meet at the book department in the department store.
本屋 (ほんや) is casual and used in daily conversation. 書店 (しょてん) is more formal and often appears in written language or store names. For example, you would say '近くの本屋に行く' (I'm going to the nearby bookstore) but a sign might read '○○書店'.
That bookstore has a good selection.
Maruzen Bookstore has a long history.
図書館 means 'library', not 'bookstore'. Be careful not to mix them up.
I borrowed a book from the library.
This bookstore chain has 100 stores nationwide.
神田の古書店街を散策した。
I strolled through the used bookstore district in Kanda.