Translation guide
A deep valley with steep sides, often with a river flowing through it. In Japanese, the most common word is 峡谷 (kyōkoku), but 渓谷 (keikoku) is used for narrower, stream-cut valleys, and 谷 (tani) is the general word for valley.
The speaker wants to refer to a canyon in a general sense, such as the Grand Canyon or a large, dramatic gorge.
The standard word for 'canyon' or 'gorge'. Used for large, deep valleys with steep walls, often formed by rivers. Suitable for famous canyons like the Grand Canyon.
グランドキャニオンは世界最大の峡谷の一つです。
The Grand Canyon is one of the largest canyons in the world.
その峡谷は深さが1000メートル以上ある。
That canyon is over 1000 meters deep.
Often translated as 'ravine' or 'gorge', but can overlap with 'canyon'. Typically refers to a narrower, V-shaped valley with a stream or river, often in mountainous areas. More scenic and less massive than 峡谷.
秋の渓谷は紅葉が美しい。
The autumn ravine is beautiful with fall colors.
私たちは渓谷沿いにハイキングを楽しんだ。
We enjoyed hiking along the gorge.
General word for 'valley'. Can be used for canyons in casual contexts, but it's less specific. Often combined with other words (e.g., 渓谷, 峡谷) to specify a canyon.
Using 谷 alone may not convey the steepness or grandeur of a canyon. Use 峡谷 or 渓谷 for clarity.
あの谷はとても深いね。
That valley is really deep, isn't it?
The speaker wants to emphasize a narrow, steep-sided valley with a stream, often in a natural, scenic setting.
Best for narrow, V-shaped valleys carved by streams. Common in place names and nature descriptions.
その渓谷には清流が流れている。
A clear stream flows through that ravine.
Can also be used for narrow canyons, but 渓谷 is more precise for stream-cut valleys.
The speaker refers to a street with tall buildings on both sides, resembling a canyon.
Literal translation of 'urban canyon'. Used in contexts like 'concrete canyon' or 'city canyon'.
マンハッタンの都会の峡谷を歩く。
Walking through the urban canyons of Manhattan.
Literally 'valley between buildings'. A more idiomatic way to describe the feeling of being surrounded by skyscrapers.
ビルの谷間から見える空は狭い。
The sky visible from between the buildings is narrow.
峡谷 (kyōkoku) is a broader term for deep valleys with steep sides, often large-scale. 渓谷 (keikoku) specifically refers to narrow valleys carved by mountain streams, emphasizing the presence of water and scenic beauty. In many contexts, they are interchangeable, but 渓谷 is more common for hiking destinations and nature spots.
While 谷 means 'valley', it is not specific enough for 'canyon' in most cases. However, in compound words or casual speech, it can be understood from context. For clarity, prefer 峡谷 or 渓谷.
この峡谷は狭くて、両側の壁が迫ってくるようだ。
This canyon is narrow, and the walls seem to close in on you.