Translation guide
An heirloom is a valuable object passed down through generations. In Japanese, the most common equivalent is 家宝 (かほう), but the concept can also be expressed through words like 先祖伝来の品 or 形見, depending on context.
A valuable item inherited within a family, often with historical or sentimental value.
The standard word for a family heirloom or treasure. It implies something precious passed down through generations.
A traditional plant variety maintained by gardeners and farmers, not commercially mass-produced.
Refers to open-pollinated, traditional varieties that breed true. Common in gardening and farming contexts.
家宝 is a family treasure passed down, often with monetary or historical value. 形見 is a keepsake from a deceased person, focusing on sentimental value. An heirloom can be both, but 形見 does not necessarily imply it was passed down through generations.
Avoid translating 'heirloom' directly as 相続品 (そうぞくひん) or 遺産 (いさん), as these refer to inheritance in a legal/financial sense, not the sentimental or traditional aspect.
この時計は我が家の家宝です。
This watch is our family heirloom.
Literally 'an item handed down from ancestors'. Used when emphasizing the generational aspect.
That sword is an heirloom passed down from our ancestors.
A keepsake or memento from a deceased person. It can be an heirloom if passed down, but focuses on the memory of the giver.
I treasure the ring that was my grandmother's keepsake.
A descriptive phrase meaning 'something that has been passed down for generations'. More explanatory than a single word.
This pot is something that has been handed down for generations.
This tomato is an heirloom variety.
Native or traditional variety, often used for crops that have been grown in a region for a long time.
I'm growing heirloom vegetables.
Literally 'traditional vegetables'. Often used for heirloom vegetable varieties with cultural significance.
Kyoto's heirloom vegetables are very delicious.