Translation guide
Describes decorative items worn in the hair. Japanese has many specific terms depending on style, material, and tradition, but a few general words cover most modern needs.
The most common, all-purpose way to refer to any decorative item worn in the hair.
The standard, neutral word for any hair ornament, from simple clips to elaborate pieces. Safe for everyday use.
彼女はいつもきれいな髪飾りをつけている。
She always wears a pretty hair ornament.
この髪飾りは手作りです。
This hair ornament is handmade.
Loanword from English, common in fashion contexts and among younger speakers. Slightly more trendy or commercial feel.
新しいヘアアクセサリーを買った。
I bought a new hair accessory.
Specific terms for ornaments used in kimono styling, tea ceremony, or traditional arts.
Ornamental hairpin, often worn with kimono. Can be simple or elaborate, with dangling chains or seasonal motifs.
着物に合う簪を探しています。
I'm looking for a kanzashi that goes with my kimono.
Another term for traditional hairpin, often used interchangeably with 簪, but can refer to a simpler stick-type ornament.
祖母の髪挿しを受け継ぎました。
I inherited my grandmother's hairpin.
A kanzashi decorated with flowers, often silk flowers. Worn by maiko (apprentice geisha) or for special occasions.
Modern, functional hair ornaments that hold hair in place.
General term for any clip used in hair, including snap clips, claw clips, and barrettes.
ヘアクリップで前髪をとめる。
I pin back my bangs with a hair clip.
Specifically a barrette, a clasp-type hair clip often used to hold back sections of hair.
このバレッタは留めやすい。
This barrette is easy to fasten.
A hair band or Alice band, often worn across the top of the head. Note: this word comes from the character in Tolstoy's novel, not from English.
Ornaments used to tie hair back, often decorative as well as functional.
The most common term for a hair elastic or hair tie. Can be plain or decorative.
ヘアゴムが切れちゃった。
My hair tie snapped.
A scrunchie, a fabric-covered elastic hair tie. Very common in casual fashion.
このシュシュ、色がかわいいね。
This scrunchie has a cute color.
An ornamental comb worn in the hair, often for traditional styles.
General word for comb, but in context of hair ornament, it refers to a decorative comb inserted into an updo, often lacquered and adorned.
花嫁の髪には美しい櫛が飾られていた。
The bride's hair was adorned with a beautiful ornamental comb.
If you're talking about a modern, Western-style hair ornament, ヘアアクセサリー or 髪飾り is safer. 簪 (かんざし) specifically evokes traditional Japanese styles and may sound odd for a plastic snap clip.
The direct translation 'ヘアオーナメント' is not commonly used in Japanese. Stick to the terms above for natural communication.
舞妓さんの花簪は季節ごとに変わります。
A maiko's flower kanzashi changes with the seasons.
Wearing a hair band makes the area around my face look neater.