Translation guide
Refers to bodies of water surrounded by land, such as lakes, rivers, and canals, as opposed to the open sea. In Japanese, this concept is expressed through specific terms depending on context, such as geography, law, or navigation.
inland waters (general)
Most common translation; covers geographical, legal, and general uses.
To refer to inland bodies of water in a geographical or descriptive sense.
The most direct translation, used in geography and law to mean inland waters, including lakes, rivers, and canals.
The inland waters of this region support a rich ecosystem.
A more explicit term meaning 'inland water area', often used in environmental or scientific contexts.
Pollution of inland waters has become a problem.
To refer to inland waters as defined in international law (e.g., UNCLOS) or maritime regulations.
In legal contexts, 内水 specifically refers to waters on the landward side of the baseline of a country's territorial sea, such as bays, rivers, and ports.
Literally 'domestic waters', sometimes used in legal or policy documents to refer to waters under national jurisdiction, including inland waters.
To refer to inland waterways used for transportation or recreation.
To refer to inland waters as a resource for fishing or fish farming.
Commonly used in the context of inland fisheries and aquaculture, literally 'inland water surface'.
Inland water fisheries contribute to the local economy.
Means 'fresh water', often used when the focus is on the type of water rather than the geographical location.
内水 is the broadest term for inland waters. 内陸水域 emphasizes the geographical aspect (inland water areas). 内水面 is specifically used in fisheries and aquaculture contexts. Choose based on context.
Inland waters are defined in international law.
Protect the ecosystem of inland water areas.
Fishing in inland waters is my hobby.
Do not translate 'inland waters' word-for-word as 内陸の水 (inland water) or 陸地の水域 (water area of land). These are not natural Japanese terms. Use the established terms above.
The ship sailed through inland waters.
Inland waters are important for biodiversity.
Under international law, the right of innocent passage does not apply to inland waters.
This law regulates fishing in domestic waters.
内水航行の許可が必要だ。
Permission for inland water navigation is required.
淡水魚の養殖が盛んだ。
Freshwater fish farming is thriving.