Translation guide
In Japanese culture, certain trees are considered sacred, often found at shrines and temples. This guide covers how to refer to such trees, from general terms to specific types.
神木
sacred tree (general)
The speaker wants to refer to a tree that is considered sacred in a general sense, often associated with a shrine or religious site.
The most common and direct term for a sacred tree, especially one on shrine grounds. Literally 'god tree'.
この神社の神木は樹齢千年以上です。
This shrine's sacred tree is over a thousand years old.
A more honorific version of 神木, often used for especially revered trees at major shrines. The prefix 御 (ご) adds respect.
伊勢神宮の御神木はとても有名です。
The sacred tree of Ise Grand Shrine is very famous.
Refers to a tree believed to house a spirit or have spiritual power. Less common and more mystical than 神木.
その霊木には精霊が宿ると言われています。
It is said that a spirit dwells in that sacred tree.
The speaker wants to refer to a particular species of tree that is traditionally considered sacred in Japan.
Sakaki tree, an evergreen sacred in Shinto, used in rituals and often planted at shrines. Its branches are used as offerings.
神社の入り口に榊が植えてあります。
Sakaki trees are planted at the entrance of the shrine.
Camphor tree, often found as a massive, ancient sacred tree at shrines. Known for its size and longevity.
Ginkgo tree, sometimes considered sacred and often planted at temples and shrines, especially large old specimens.
The speaker wants to discuss the concept of sacred trees in Japanese culture, mythology, or religion, rather than a specific tree.
The belief or worship of sacred trees, a common element in Shinto. Used when talking about the cultural phenomenon.
日本には古くからご神木信仰があります。
There has been a belief in sacred trees in Japan since ancient times.
A term from Shinto referring to a tree or space believed to be a place where kami descend. More ritualistic and archaic.
神籬として榊が使われます。
Sakaki is used as a sacred tree for kami to descend upon.
御神木 is more respectful and often used for famous trees at major shrines. In casual conversation, 神木 is sufficient for most shrine trees.
A tree is only 神木 if it is on shrine grounds or has a religious significance. A very old tree in a park is not automatically a sacred tree; use 巨木 (きょぼく, giant tree) or 老木 (ろうぼく, old tree) instead.
その神社の大楠は樹齢八百年です。
The great camphor tree at that shrine is 800 years old.
The ginkgo tree at the temple turns golden in autumn.