Translation guide
Lacquerware refers to objects coated with lacquer, a natural or synthetic finish. In Japanese, the most common term is 漆器 (しっき), but there are specific words for different types and contexts.
The broad category of lacquered objects, such as bowls, trays, and boxes.
The standard, neutral term for lacquerware in general. Used in everyday conversation and writing.
この漆器は手作りです。
This lacquerware is handmade.
漆器の椀で味噌汁を飲む。
I drink miso soup from a lacquerware bowl.
Literally 'lacquered thing', a more casual or traditional term often used in crafts or regional contexts.
輪島の塗り物は有名です。
Wajima lacquerware is famous.
Referring to particular lacquered objects like bowls, trays, or boxes.
Used as a modifier meaning 'lacquer-coated', often attached to the object name. For example, 漆塗りのお盆 (lacquerware tray).
漆塗りのお椀を買いました。
I bought a lacquerware bowl.
この漆塗りの箱はアンティークです。
This lacquerware box is an antique.
Using 漆器の + object is also possible but less common than 漆塗りの.
漆器の盆を探しています。
I'm looking for a lacquerware tray.
Referring to famous styles of lacquerware from specific regions in Japan.
Wajima lacquerware, a famous style from Ishikawa Prefecture known for its durability and elaborate decoration.
輪島塗の箸は高級品です。
Wajima lacquerware chopsticks are luxury items.
Aizu lacquerware from Fukushima, known for its practical, everyday use items.
会津塗の椀は丈夫です。
Aizu lacquerware bowls are sturdy.
Kyoto lacquerware, often featuring delicate designs and gold powder (蒔絵).
京漆器の技法は繊細です。
The techniques of Kyoto lacquerware are delicate.
Discussing lacquerware in the context of traditional crafts or art forms.
Lacquer art, referring to the artistic or decorative aspect of lacquerware.
彼は漆芸の展覧会を開いた。
He held an exhibition of lacquer art.
A specific technique of sprinkling gold or silver powder onto wet lacquer to create designs. Often associated with high-end lacquerware.
この蒔絵の箱は江戸時代のものです。
This maki-e box is from the Edo period.
漆器 (しっき) is the standard modern term. 塗り物 (ぬりもの) is more traditional and often used in craft contexts or regional dialects. In everyday conversation, 漆器 is safer.
この地域では塗り物が盛んです。
Lacquerware is thriving in this region.
When describing a specific object, 漆塗りの (urushi-nuri no) is the most natural way to say 'lacquerware X'. For example, 'lacquerware tray' is 漆塗りの盆, not 漆器の盆 (which is understandable but less common).
私は漆器を収集しています。
I collect lacquerware.
この店は美しい漆器を売っています。
This shop sells beautiful lacquerware.