Translation guide
The bottom of a river, including both dry and underwater areas. Japanese distinguishes between the dry riverbed, the underwater riverbed, and the broader river area.
The part of the riverbed that is above water, typically dry and often covered with stones or gravel.
Refers to the dry, stony area beside a river, often used for recreation. This is the most common word for a dry riverbed.
子供たちが河原で遊んでいる。
The children are playing on the riverbed.
Alternative kanji for 河原, same meaning and reading. Both are common.
川原にテントを張った。
We pitched a tent on the riverbed.
The bottom surface of a river that is underwater.
Specifically the bottom of a river, underwater. Used when talking about depth, sediment, or things on the river floor.
川底は砂で覆われている。
The riverbed is covered with sand.
川底に沈んだ自転車が見える。
You can see a bicycle sunk to the riverbed.
Technical term for riverbed, used in geography or engineering contexts.
The broader river environment, often including the riverbed and surrounding land.
Refers to the land along a river, often including the riverbed and banks, sometimes used as a park or sports ground.
河川敷でバーベキューをした。
We had a barbecue on the riverbed area.
河原 (かわら) is the dry, stony part of a riverbed, often above water. 川底 (かわぞこ) is the bottom underwater. Use 河原 for picnics and playing, 川底 for depth and underwater features.
Saying 河原に魚がいる (Fish are on the dry riverbed) would be unnatural. Use 川底 for underwater contexts.
Measure the riverbed gradient.