穴場
Meanings
hidden gem; little-known great spot; well-kept secret place
Refers to a place that is excellent but not widely known, such as a restaurant, scenic spot, or event. Often used in travel and leisure contexts.
I found a hidden gem of a ramen shop that only locals know about.
This park is a little-known great spot for cherry blossoms.
betting booth (at a racecourse)
Colloquial term used at horse racing or other racecourses for a betting window or booth.
I bought a betting ticket at the betting booth before the race.
Usage patterns
- 穴場を見つけるto find a hidden gem
During the trip, I found a wonderful hidden gem.
- 穴場で買うto buy (a ticket) at the betting booth
He bought a betting ticket at the betting booth.
- 〈場所〉の穴場a hidden gem in a place
Please tell me some hidden gems in Kyoto.
- 穴場の〈場所〉a hidden-gem type of place (e.g. restaurant, spot)
I enjoyed a quiet lunch at a hidden-gem restaurant.
- 穴場を教えるto tell someone about a hidden gem
A local told me about a hidden gem that only residents know.