Translation guide
The main administrative building of a city government. In Japan, this is typically called 市役所 (shiyakusho). Note that the English term can also refer to the city government as an institution, not just the building.
Referring to the physical building where city government offices are located.
Referring to the city government as an organization or authority, not just the building.
Often used to mean the city government or municipal authorities. In many contexts, 'city hall' as an institution is simply 'the city'.
Using 'city hall' as a landmark or destination.
Common in addresses or bus stop names, meaning 'in front of city hall'.
市役所前でバスを降りてください。
Please get off the bus at City Hall.
For smaller municipalities, use 町役場 (まちやくば) for towns or 村役場 (むらやくば) for villages. 市役所 is only for cities (市).
In designated cities like Tokyo's 23 wards, each ward has its own office called 区役所 (くやくしょ). This is equivalent to a city hall for that ward.
Standard term for a city hall or city office building. Used for cities (市).
市役所は駅の近くにあります。
City hall is near the station.
明日、市役所に行かなければなりません。
I have to go to city hall tomorrow.
Also means city hall, but more formal and often refers to the building itself rather than the administrative function. Used in official contexts.
新しい市庁舎が建設中です。
A new city hall is under construction.
市は新しい公園を建設する計画です。
The city (city hall) is planning to build a new park.
Can also refer to the city government as an institution, though it primarily means the building. Context will clarify.
市役所に問い合わせてください。
Please contact city hall.