三さん種しゅの神じん器ぎ

expression, noun

the Three Sacred Treasures; the Imperial Regalia of Japan

Refers to the mirror, sword, and jewel that symbolize the legitimacy of the Japanese imperial throne. Used in historical, cultural, and mythological contexts.

• 三さん種しゅの神じん器ぎは、鏡かがみと剣つるぎと勾まが玉たまからなる。

  The Three Sacred Treasures consist of the mirror, the sword, and the curved jewel.

expression, noun

three status symbols; three must-have items

Colloquial, idiomatic use likening a set of three highly desirable items to the imperial regalia. Often used humorously or in marketing, e.g., the 'three sacred treasures' of a new home (TV, fridge, washing machine) or of a salaryman (watch, car, golf clubs).

• 昭しょう和わの時じ代だい、新しん生せい活かつの三さん種しゅの神じん器ぎはテレビ、冷れい蔵ぞう庫こ、洗せん濯たく機きだった。

  In the Showa era, the three status symbols for a new household were a TV, a fridge, and a washing machine.