noun
Japanese giant salamander
Refers to the species Andrias japonicus, a large aquatic salamander native to Japan. The name literally means 'half-split', possibly from an old belief about its regenerative abilities.
See also: 大山椒魚
はんざきは特別天然記念物に指定されている。
The Japanese giant salamander is designated a special natural monument.
大山椒魚は「はんざき」とも呼ばれる。
The Japanese giant salamander is also called 'hanzaki'.
Synonym; 大山椒魚 is the more formal or scientific name, while はんざき is a common name often used in local or colloquial contexts.
The name はんざき (半割/半裂) literally means 'half-split'. One folk explanation is that the salamander can survive being torn in half, but the exact origin is uncertain.