Translation guide
The central or primary hall in a building, especially in temples, shrines, or public facilities. Japanese has several specific terms depending on the context.
The main worship hall in a Buddhist temple, where the principal image is enshrined.
The most common term for the main hall of a Buddhist temple. It houses the principal object of worship.
このお寺の本堂は江戸時代に建てられました。
The main hall of this temple was built in the Edo period.
Specifically the main hall in a Buddhist temple complex, often used for older or historically significant temples, especially those with a 'golden hall'.
法隆寺の金堂は世界最古の木造建築の一つです。
The main hall of Horyuji is one of the oldest wooden buildings in the world.
The main sanctuary or hall of worship in a Shinto shrine.
The main sanctuary of a Shinto shrine, where the deity is enshrined. Usually off-limits to the public.
神社の本殿は一般の人は入れません。
The main hall of the shrine is not open to the public.
The worship hall in front of the main sanctuary where visitors pray. Often translated as 'main hall' in tourist contexts, but technically distinct from 本殿.
The main hall or large room in a public building like a community center, school, or concert hall.
Commonly used for large halls in modern buildings, such as concert halls or event spaces.
式典は市役所の大ホールで行われます。
The ceremony will be held in the main hall of the city hall.
Loanword from English, used for the main hall in hotels, conference centers, etc.
ホテルのメインホールでパーティーがあります。
There is a party in the main hall of the hotel.
The main living or reception room in a traditional Japanese house.
A large room in a traditional Japanese house, used for receiving guests or family gatherings. Often has a tokonoma alcove.
お客様を広間に通しました。
We showed the guests into the main hall.
A tatami-floored room for guests, often the main reception room. Can be translated as 'main hall' in a traditional context.
本堂 (ほんどう) is for Buddhist temples, while 本殿 (ほんでん) is for Shinto shrines. Using the wrong term can cause confusion.
お寺の本堂と神社の本殿は違います。
The main hall of a temple and the main hall of a shrine are different.
For most tourist situations, 本堂 is understood as the main hall of a temple. For modern buildings, 大ホール or メインホール is safe.
参拝者は拝殿でお祈りをします。
Worshippers pray at the main hall.
この家の座敷はとても広いです。
The main hall of this house is very spacious.