Translation guide
Refers to physical remnants of the past, such as ruins, artifacts, or archaeological sites. Japanese has several terms that vary by scale, context, and formality.
Referring to excavated or visible remains of ancient structures, settlements, or tombs.
The most common and general term for archaeological sites, ruins, or historic remains. Used for anything from ancient settlements to castle ruins.
These historic remains are from the Jomon period.
Excavation work is being carried out at the historic site.
Specifically refers to officially designated historic sites, often protected by law. More formal and administrative than 遺跡.
Specifically ancient burial mounds or tumuli, especially from the Kofun period. Not a general term for all remains.
Referring to physical objects or structures that remain from an earlier time, often in a broader or more figurative sense.
Refers to relics or artifacts left behind by past people. Often used for objects found at archaeological sites, but can also mean mementos or remains of a deceased person.
These relics are clues to understanding ancient life.
Means vestiges, traces, or lingering signs of something that is mostly gone. Often used for intangible or atmospheric remains, like the feeling of a past era.
Refers to historic spots or places of historical interest, often associated with famous events or people. More about the location's historical significance than physical remains.
Specifically referring to the ruined remains of castles, temples, or other man-made structures.
Refers to ruins or abandoned buildings, often with a connotation of desolation. Commonly used for modern ruins as well as ancient ones.
There were old ruins in the mountains.
Specifically the ruins or site of a castle. Very common in place names and tourism.
遺跡 is the general term for any archaeological site or ruins. 史跡 is an official designation for sites protected by law (e.g., 国指定史跡). Use 遺跡 in everyday conversation unless referring to the legal status.
These ruins are designated as a historic site.
For abandoned modern buildings or structures, use 廃墟 (はいきょ). 遺跡 implies ancient or archaeological remains.
The historic remains date back to the 8th century.
Many historic remains have been discovered in this area.
This is a nationally designated historic site.
This ancient tomb was built in the 5th century.
街には古い城下町の名残がある。
The town still has vestiges of the old castle town.
この地は多くの旧跡に恵まれている。
This area is blessed with many historic spots.
この公園は城跡に作られた。
This park was built on the ruins of a castle.