noun
large junk (capacity 1,000 koku of rice)
Historical term for a large Japanese sailing ship used in the Edo period, capable of carrying 1,000 koku (approx. 150 tons) of rice.
See also: 石
江戸時代、千石船が日本海を往来して物資を運んだ。
In the Edo period, large junks called sengokubune plied the Sea of Japan carrying goods.
弁才船 is a broader term for traditional Japanese sailing ships, while 千石船 specifically refers to those with a 1,000-koku capacity.
Compound of 千石 (1,000 koku) and 船 (ship), referring to the vessel's cargo capacity.