Translation guide
The study and practice of making maps. In Japanese, this is typically expressed with the term 地図学 (chizugaku) for the academic field, or 地図製作 (chizu seisaku) for the act of map-making.
Referring to cartography as a scientific discipline or field of study.
The standard term for the academic study of maps and mapping. Used in university departments and scholarly contexts.
彼は大学で地図学を専攻している。
He is majoring in cartography at university.
Referring to the practical activity of creating maps.
Literally 'map production', this is the most common way to describe the act of making maps, whether by hand or digitally.
この会社は地図製作を専門としている。
This company specializes in cartography.
Similar to 地図製作, but slightly more casual and often used for smaller-scale or personal map-making projects.
旅行のために地図作成を始めた。
I started making maps for my trip.
Referring to cartography in a historical, artistic, or traditional context.
A broader term for drafting or drawing plans, including maps. Often used in technical or historical contexts.
古い製図技術が展示されている。
Old cartography techniques are on display.
In everyday conversation, Japanese speakers rarely use the word 'cartography' directly. Instead, they might simply say 地図を作る (to make a map) or refer to the specific type of map. Reserve 地図学 and 地図製作 for formal or technical contexts.