Translation guide
The tenth month of the traditional Japanese lunar calendar, known as Kannazuki (神無月), is a culturally significant period when Shinto deities are said to gather at Izumo Taisha, leaving the rest of Japan 'without gods.'
The standard name for the tenth month of the lunar calendar, widely recognized in traditional contexts.
The most common Japanese name for the tenth month of the lunar calendar. Literally 'month without gods,' referring to the belief that all Shinto deities leave their shrines and gather at Izumo Taisha during this month.
旧暦の十月は神無月と呼ばれます。
The tenth month of the lunar calendar is called Kannazuki.
Simply 'tenth month' in the lunar calendar context. Less culturally specific than 神無月, but can be used when referring to the month without the mythological connotation.
旧暦の十月には収穫祭が行われます。
Harvest festivals are held in the tenth month of the lunar calendar.
Emphasizing the cultural belief that gods leave their shrines during this month, except in Izumo where they gather.
A descriptive phrase meaning 'the month without gods,' directly explaining the concept behind 神無月. Useful for clarifying the meaning to someone unfamiliar with the term.
神無月は、神のいない月という意味です。
Kannazuki means 'the month without gods.'
The alternative name used in Izumo region, where the month is called 'month with gods' because deities assemble there.
Used only in the Izumo region to refer to the same tenth lunar month. Literally 'month with gods,' contrasting with 神無月. This term is regional and not commonly used elsewhere in Japan.
出雲では、十月を神在月と呼びます。
In Izumo, the tenth month is called Kamiarizuki.
Kannazuki (神無月) is deeply tied to Shinto beliefs. During this month, many shrines hold special ceremonies, and it is considered a time when prayers may not reach the gods (except at Izumo). When using this term, be aware that it carries cultural and religious connotations beyond simply denoting a month.
The lunar calendar's tenth month roughly corresponds to November in the modern Gregorian calendar. When discussing dates, clarify whether you mean the lunar month or the solar month (十月, じゅうがつ) to avoid confusion.