Translation guide
A barrier or fence made of rails, typically found on balconies, stairs, bridges, or decks.
The physical structure of a railing, such as on a balcony, staircase, bridge, or deck.
The most common and general word for a handrail or railing, especially on stairs, balconies, and corridors. It emphasizes the handrail part.
階段の手すりにつかまってください。
Please hold onto the stair railing.
ベランダの手すりが壊れている。
The balcony railing is broken.
Often used for railings on bridges, verandas, or traditional architecture. It can refer to the entire balustrade, not just the handrail.
A more general term for a fence or railing, often used for barriers around dangerous areas, construction sites, or animal enclosures. Can imply a less refined structure.
Refers specifically to ornate railings on traditional Japanese bridges, temples, or shrines. Literary or technical.
手すり is the safest choice for most everyday railings (stairs, balconies). 欄干 is common for bridges and traditional structures. 柵 is more like a fence or barrier, often temporary or less refined.
橋の欄干にもたれて川を眺めた。
I leaned on the bridge railing and looked at the river.
It's dangerous, so please don't go beyond the railing.
It's a bridge with beautiful vermilion railings.