Translation guide
The phrase 'land of the gods' refers to a mythical or sacred place inhabited by deities. In Japanese, this concept is most commonly expressed through the word 神国 (shinkoku), which historically refers to Japan as a divine nation protected by the gods. Other expressions exist for mythical realms or poetic descriptions.
Referring to Japan as a country created and protected by the gods, often in historical, nationalistic, or poetic contexts.
Literally 'god country'. A traditional term for Japan, emphasizing its divine origins and protection by Shinto deities. Often used in historical or nationalistic discourse.
日本は神国であると古くから信じられてきた。
Japan has long been believed to be the land of the gods.
A more general phrase meaning 'country of god/gods'. Can refer to Japan or any divine realm, but less idiomatic than 神国 for Japan specifically.
この神の国は永遠に栄えるだろう。
This land of the gods will prosper forever.
Literally 'country of the gods' (plural). More poetic and less common for Japan; can refer to mythological realms.
神々の国、日本。
Japan, the land of the gods.
Referring to a mythical place where gods reside, such as Takamagahara in Japanese mythology, or a general divine realm.
The heavenly plain in Shinto mythology where the gods dwell. Equivalent to a 'land of the gods' in a literal mythological sense.
神々は高天原に住んでいるとされる。
The gods are said to live in Takamagahara.
A descriptive phrase meaning 'land where gods live'. Can be used for any mythical divine realm.
それは神の住む国のような美しい場所だった。
It was a beautiful place, like a land of the gods.
Plural version of the above, emphasizing multiple gods. Slightly more poetic.
神々の住む国を想像してみてください。
Imagine a land of the gods.
Using 'land of the gods' in a figurative sense to describe a place of extraordinary beauty, peace, or spiritual significance.
Literally 'land of the gods'. A poetic expression that can describe a sacred or breathtakingly beautiful place.
この島はまさに神々の地だ。
This island is truly a land of the gods.
Meaning 'like a land of the gods'. Used as a simile to describe a place.
その景色は神の国のような美しさだった。
The scenery was as beautiful as a land of the gods.
Directly translating 'land of the gods' as 神の国 (kami no kuni) can sound overly dramatic or unnatural in everyday conversation. Use it only in poetic, historical, or mythological contexts. For casual descriptions, use a simile like 神の国のような (kami no kuni no you na).
神国 (shinkoku) is a fixed historical term specifically for Japan, while 神の国 (kami no kuni) is a more flexible phrase that can refer to any divine realm. Use 神国 when discussing Japanese nationalism or Shinto concepts; otherwise, 神の国 is safer.