バルコニー
バルコニー in 30 Sekunden
- バルコニー (barukonii) is the Japanese loanword for 'balcony', referring to an outdoor platform on upper floors.
- Technically, in Japan, it lacks a roof, distinguishing it from a 'beranda' which has one.
- It is primarily used for drying laundry and futons, making its sunlight exposure very important.
- It also serves as a leisure space and a critical emergency evacuation route in apartment buildings.
The word バルコニー (barukonii) is a direct loanword from the English 'balcony.' In the Japanese architectural and real estate context, it refers to an elevated platform that projects from the wall of a building, typically from the second floor or higher. While it sounds straightforward, the usage of this katakana word in Japan carries specific nuances that distinguish it from other similar terms like ベランダ (beranda). Understanding these nuances is key for any intermediate learner navigating Japanese housing or literature. In modern Japanese society, a バルコニー is often viewed as a luxury or a specific design choice that emphasizes open-air living and aesthetic appeal. Unlike traditional Japanese architecture which might use an 'engawa' (a wooden veranda), the バルコニー is a symbol of Western-style modernization in urban planning.
- Architectural Distinction
- In Japanese real estate terminology, a バルコニー is technically defined as an outdoor space that does not have a roof or cover directly above it. If the space has a roof (often provided by the floor above), it is technically a 'beranda'. However, in casual conversation, many people use these terms interchangeably.
新しいマンションには、とても広いバルコニーが付いています。(The new apartment comes with a very spacious balcony.)
When you are looking for an apartment in Japan, you will see バルコニー listed in the floor plans (madori). It is a vital space for many Japanese residents, not just for relaxation, but for practical daily chores. Because many Japanese households do not use electric clothes dryers, the バルコニー serves as the primary location for hanging laundry (sentakumono) to dry in the sun. It is also the designated spot for airing out futons. Consequently, the orientation of the バルコニー—specifically if it faces south (minamimuki)—is a major selling point in the Japanese housing market, as it ensures maximum sunlight for drying clothes and warming the room.
- Lifestyle Usage
- Beyond chores, the concept of 'balconing' or 'balcony gardening' (barukonii gaadeningu) has become popular in dense urban areas like Tokyo and Osaka. People use these small spaces to grow herbs, vegetables, or flowers, creating a 'mini-oasis' amidst the concrete jungle.
天気がいい日は、バルコニーでコーヒーを飲むのが好きです。(On days when the weather is nice, I like to drink coffee on the balcony.)
Furthermore, the term ルーフバルコニー (roof balcony) refers to a larger balcony situated on the roof of the floor below, offering even more space. This is considered a premium feature. In literature and film, the バルコニー often serves as a romantic or contemplative setting, much like in Western culture. It represents a threshold between the private interior of the home and the public exterior of the city. For a B1 learner, mastering this word involves not just knowing the object, but understanding its multifunctional role in Japanese urban life—from a laundry station to a private garden.
Using バルコニー in a sentence requires an understanding of basic Japanese particles and verbs related to space and movement. Since it is a location, the particles に (ni) and で (de) are most frequently used. You use に when indicating existence (there is a balcony) or movement to the balcony (going out to the balcony). You use で when describing an action that takes place on the balcony, such as reading or gardening. Because it is a katakana word, it follows standard noun rules and does not change form. It is often paired with verbs like 出る (deru - to go out), 干す (hosu - to hang/dry), and 眺める (nagameru - to gaze/look out).
- Particle Ni vs. De
- Use 'バルコニーに出る' (go out to the balcony) to show direction. Use 'バルコニーで朝食を食べる' (eat breakfast on the balcony) to show the location of the action.
洗濯物をバルコニーに干しました。(I hung the laundry on the balcony.)
When describing the attributes of a balcony, you can use adjectives like 広い (hiroi - spacious), 狭い (semai - narrow), or 日当たりのいい (hiatari no ii - sunny). In real estate listings, you might see compound terms like ワイドバルコニー (wide balcony) or サービスバルコニー (service balcony - a small balcony usually for air conditioning units or trash). For B1 learners, it is important to practice these combinations to sound more natural. For example, instead of just saying 'the balcony is big,' saying '日当たりのいいバルコニー' conveys a much more specific and desirable image in a Japanese context.
この部屋のバルコニーからは海が見えます。(You can see the ocean from the balcony of this room.)
In more formal or technical settings, such as an architectural meeting, you might hear バルコニー used alongside terms like 避難経路 (hinan keiro - evacuation route). In many Japanese apartment buildings, the balcony serves as a secondary escape route during fires, often featuring a hatch in the floor with a ladder leading to the floor below. Therefore, sentences like 'バルコニーに荷物を置かないでください' (Please do not place luggage on the balcony) are common in apartment building notices to ensure the evacuation route remains clear. This practical aspect of the balcony is a unique part of living in Japan that learners should be aware of.
You will encounter the word バルコニー in various everyday situations in Japan. The most common place is within the real estate industry. If you walk past a 'fudousanya' (real estate agent), the posters in the window will prominently feature the word バルコニー or its abbreviation 'B' in floor plans. Agents will emphasize a 'minami-muki barukonii' (south-facing balcony) as a key feature of a high-quality apartment. You will also hear it in lifestyle television programs, particularly those focused on home renovation (rifoomu) or interior design, where experts suggest ways to utilize the balcony space for 'uchi-kafe' (home cafe) experiences.
- Daily Conversations
- Friends might ask, 'バルコニーで何か育ててる?' (Are you growing anything on your balcony?) or 'バルコニーからの眺めはどう?' (How is the view from your balcony?). It is a common topic when visiting someone's new home.
昨夜はバルコニーで花火を見ました。(Last night, I watched fireworks from the balcony.)
In the context of hotels and travel, バルコニー is a standard term used in booking websites. A 'barukonii-tsuki' (with balcony) room is often more expensive than a standard room. You might hear hotel staff say, 'バルコニーでの喫煙はご遠慮ください' (Please refrain from smoking on the balcony), as many hotels now have strict non-smoking policies that extend to outdoor private spaces. Additionally, in urban areas, you might hear the word in the context of 'barukonii-goshi' (over/through the balcony), describing how someone spoke to a neighbor or observed something outside.
ホテルのバルコニーから、美しい夕日が見えた。(From the hotel balcony, I could see a beautiful sunset.)
Lastly, you might hear this word in weather reports or safety announcements. During a typhoon (taifuu), news anchors will warn residents: 'バルコニーにある植木鉢などは室内にしまってください' (Please move flowerpots and other items on your balcony indoors). This highlights the balcony as a place that is exposed to the elements and requires care during Japan's frequent natural events. For a learner, hearing バルコニー in these diverse contexts—from romantic manga to serious weather warnings—shows how integrated this Western architectural concept has become in Japanese life.
One of the most frequent mistakes English speakers make is assuming that バルコニー and ベランダ (beranda) are exactly the same in Japanese. While they are often used interchangeably in casual speech, the technical difference is significant in professional contexts like real estate or construction. As mentioned, a バルコニー has no roof, whereas a ベランダ does. If you are describing a space with an overhang, a Japanese person might correct you or feel that 'beranda' is more appropriate. Another common error is the pronunciation. English speakers often put the stress on the first syllable (BAL-cony), but in Japanese katakana, the pitch accent is usually flat or rises slightly, and every syllable (ba-ru-ko-ni-i) should be given equal length.
- Confusing with 'Engawa'
- Do not use バルコニー to describe the traditional wooden porch of a Japanese house. That is an 'engawa'. Using バルコニー for an engawa sounds culturally mismatched.
× 庭にバルコニーがあります。(There is a balcony in the garden.) → ○ 庭にテラスがあります。(There is a terrace in the garden.)
Another mistake is using the wrong particle for the action of hanging laundry. Learners often say 'バルコニーで洗濯物を干す' which is technically correct (hanging laundry *on* the balcony), but 'バルコニーに洗濯物を干す' (hanging laundry *onto* the balcony) is more common when focusing on the result of the action. Also, be careful with the word テラス (terasu - terrace). In Japan, a terrace is usually on the ground floor, while a balcony is on the second floor or higher. Calling a ground-floor patio a 'balcony' would be considered incorrect.
× バルコニーから降りました。(I went down from the balcony.) → ○ バルコニーから中に入りました。(I went inside from the balcony.)
Finally, avoid overusing the word when 'mado' (window) might be more appropriate. If you are just looking out, 'mado kara mita' (looked from the window) is often sufficient unless the specific vantage point of the balcony is relevant. In writing, ensure you use the correct katakana characters. Some learners confuse 'ko' (コ) with 'yu' (ユ) or 'ni' (ニ) with 'e' (エ). Precise katakana orthography is essential for being understood in written communication.
In Japanese, there are several words that describe outdoor or semi-outdoor spaces attached to a building. Understanding the subtle differences between these will greatly improve your descriptive ability. The most direct competitor is ベランダ (beranda). As discussed, the presence of a roof is the key technical differentiator. In everyday life, however, if you are talking about where you dry your clothes, 'beranda' is actually more common than 'バルコニー' because most Japanese apartment balconies do have a roof (the floor above).
- バルコニー vs. ベランダ
- バルコニー: No roof, often more modern/luxury feel.
ベランダ: Has a roof, more common in standard apartments.
このマンションには広いバルコニーがありますが、屋根はありません。(This apartment has a wide balcony, but it has no roof.)
Another alternative is テラス (terasu - terrace). This word is usually reserved for ground-level spaces, often paved or decked, that extend from a living room into a garden. If you are at a cafe sitting outside, you are on the 'terasu-seki' (terrace seating), not the 'barukonii-seki'. Then there is the traditional Japanese 縁側 (engawa), which is a wooden corridor running along the edge of a traditional house. While it serves a similar purpose of connecting the inside and outside, its cultural and architectural context is entirely different.
テラスで食事をするのは気持ちがいいですね。(Eating on the terrace feels great, doesn't it?)
In more poetic or literary settings, you might encounter the word 露台 (rodai), which is an older, more formal kanji-based word for balcony. However, this is rarely used in spoken modern Japanese. Finally, there is the term ウッドデッキ (uddo dekki - wood deck), which refers specifically to the material and is often used for ground-floor terraces or large balconies that have been renovated with wooden flooring. Choosing the right word depends on the floor level (ground vs. upper), the presence of a roof, and the overall 'vibe' of the building.
How Formal Is It?
Wusstest du?
In Japan, the distinction between 'balcony' and 'veranda' is so specific in real estate law that it can affect the price and the 'floor area' calculation of a property.
Aussprachehilfe
- Pronouncing it with English stress (BAL-cony) instead of equal mora timing.
- Shortening the final 'i' sound (barukoni instead of barukonii).
- Confusing 'ru' with 'lu' (though 'r' is standard in Japanese).
- Misplacing the long vowel mark in writing.
- Using 'u' instead of 'o' (barukunii).
Schwierigkeitsgrad
Katakana is easy to read but requires knowing the specific characters.
Simple katakana, but don't forget the long vowel mark (ー).
Very easy for English speakers as it's a loanword.
Clear and distinct pronunciation.
Was du als Nächstes lernen solltest
Voraussetzungen
Als Nächstes lernen
Fortgeschritten
Wichtige Grammatik
Particles に vs で for location
バルコニーにいる (To be on the balcony) vs バルコニーで食べる (To eat on the balcony).
Relative clauses modifying nouns
バルコニーがある家 (A house that has a balcony).
Potential form for visibility
バルコニーから富士山が見える (Mt. Fuji can be seen from the balcony).
Te-form for sequence of actions
バルコニーに出て、深呼吸した (I went out to the balcony and took a deep breath).
Katakana long vowel mark (ー)
バルコニー (Barukonii) - the dash indicates a long vowel.
Beispiele nach Niveau
これはバルコニーです。
This is a balcony.
Simple identification using 'desu'.
バルコニーはどこですか?
Where is the balcony?
Question form using 'doko desu ka'.
バルコニーがあります。
There is a balcony.
Existence using 'arimasu'.
きれいなバルコニーですね。
It's a beautiful balcony, isn't it?
Adjective 'kirei' with sentence-ending particle 'ne'.
バルコニーは小さいです。
The balcony is small.
Adjective 'chiisai' used as a predicate.
バルコニーに行きます。
I am going to the balcony.
Movement using particle 'ni' and 'ikimasu'.
私の部屋にはバルコニーがあります。
My room has a balcony.
Possession/Existence in a location 'ni wa'.
バルコニーで休みます。
I rest on the balcony.
Action in a location using 'de'.
バルコニーで花を育てています。
I am growing flowers on the balcony.
Continuous action 'te-imasu'.
広いバルコニーがある家を探しています。
I am looking for a house with a wide balcony.
Relative clause modifying 'ie' (house).
バルコニーに洗濯物を干しました。
I hung the laundry on the balcony.
Past tense 'shimashita' with target particle 'ni'.
バルコニーのドアを閉めてください。
Please close the balcony door.
Request form 'kudasai'.
今日はバルコニーで朝食を食べました。
Today I ate breakfast on the balcony.
Location of action 'de'.
バルコニーから海が見えます。
The sea can be seen from the balcony.
Potential/Spontaneous verb 'mieru'.
バルコニーに猫がいます。
There is a cat on the balcony.
Existence of animate object 'imasu'.
バルコニーは二階にあります。
The balcony is on the second floor.
Location using 'ni arimasu'.
バルコニーに出ると、涼しい風が吹いてきた。
When I went out to the balcony, a cool breeze started blowing.
Conditional 'to' indicating a natural consequence.
このマンションのバルコニーは、日当たりがとてもいいです。
The balcony of this apartment gets very good sunlight.
Noun phrase 'hiatari' describing the quality of the space.
バルコニーに置いてあった椅子が、雨で濡れてしまった。
The chair that was placed on the balcony got wet in the rain.
Regretful past 'te-shimatta' and relative clause.
タバコはバルコニーではなく、喫煙所で吸ってください。
Please smoke in the smoking area, not on the balcony.
Contrastive 'de wa naku'.
バルコニーの手すりが低いので、気をつけてください。
The balcony railing is low, so please be careful.
Reasoning 'node' and advisory 'ki o tsukete'.
週末はバルコニーを掃除するつもりです。
I plan to clean the balcony this weekend.
Intention 'tsumori desu'.
バルコニーに避難用のはしごが設置されています。
An evacuation ladder is installed on the balcony.
Passive/State 'te-imasu'.
アパートのバルコニーから、隣の人の声が聞こえる。
I can hear the neighbor's voice from the apartment balcony.
Spontaneous perception 'kikoeru'.
ルーフバルコニーを活用して、小さな家庭菜園を始めました。
I utilized the roof balcony to start a small home vegetable garden.
Compound noun 'roof balcony' and 'te-form' for sequence.
バルコニーに置く家具は、耐水性の高いものを選んだほうがいい。
It is better to choose furniture with high water resistance for the balcony.
Advice 'hou ga ii' and relative clause.
管理規約により、バルコニーでのバーベキューは禁止されています。
According to the management rules, BBQ on the balcony is prohibited.
Formal passive 'kinshi sarete imasu' and 'ni yori' (according to).
バルコニーの床にウッドパネルを敷いて、雰囲気を変えてみた。
I tried laying wood panels on the balcony floor to change the atmosphere.
Attempting action 'te-mita'.
都会のマンションでは、バルコニーが唯一のプライベートな屋外空間だ。
In urban apartments, the balcony is the only private outdoor space.
Categorical 'da' (plain form of desu).
台風が近づいているので、バルコニーの荷物を片付けておこう。
Since a typhoon is approaching, let's clear the items from the balcony in advance.
Preparatory action 'te-okou'.
バルコニーから花火大会を鑑賞するのは、最高の贅沢だ。
Watching a fireworks festival from the balcony is the ultimate luxury.
Nominalized verb 'kanshou suru no wa'.
建築基準法では、バルコニーの幅についても規定がある。
In the Building Standards Act, there are also regulations regarding the width of balconies.
Topic particle 'wa' with focus particle 'mo'.
バルコニーは、内部空間と外部空間を媒介する緩衝地帯としての役割を担っている。
The balcony plays the role of a buffer zone that mediates between internal and external spaces.
Formal academic 'wo ninatte iru'.
日本の都市住宅において、バルコニーは実用性と審美性の間で揺れ動いてきた。
In Japanese urban housing, the balcony has fluctuated between practicality and aesthetics.
Formal locative 'ni oite' and 'yureugoite kita' (historical progression).
彼はバルコニーに佇み、眼下に広がる夜景を眺めながら物思いに耽っていた。
He stood on the balcony, lost in thought while gazing at the night view spreading out below.
Literary verbs 'tatazumi' and 'fukutte ita'.
バルコニーの奥行きを1.5メートル以上にすることで、居住性が格段に向上する。
By making the balcony depth 1.5 meters or more, the livability improves significantly.
Conditional 'ni suru koto de' (by doing).
分譲マンションにおいて、バルコニーは共用部分とみなされ、勝手な改造は許されない。
In condominiums, balconies are considered common areas, and unauthorized modifications are not permitted.
Passive 'minasareru' and 'yurusarenai'.
バルコニー越しに交わされる挨拶が、希薄になりがちな近所付き合いを繋ぎ止めている。
Greetings exchanged across balconies keep neighborhood relationships, which tend to be thin, connected.
Compound particle 'goshi ni' and auxiliary 'gachi' (tendency).
その建築家は、バルコニーを単なる付帯設備ではなく、建物の表情を決定づける要素として捉えた。
The architect viewed the balcony not as a mere accessory, but as an element that determines the building's character.
Contrastive 'dewa naku' and 'toraeta' (perceived).
バルコニーの排水溝が詰まると、階下への漏水トラブルに発展しかねない。
If the balcony drain gets clogged, it could potentially develop into a water leakage problem for the floor below.
Negative potential 'kanenai' (could happen).
バルコニーの造形美が、このモダニズム建築のファサードにリズムと陰影を与えている。
The sculptural beauty of the balconies lends rhythm and shadow to the facade of this modernist building.
Sophisticated vocabulary 'zoukeibi' and 'fasaado'.
バルコニーという装置が、都市の喧騒から隔絶された静謐な思索の場を提供している。
The device known as the balcony provides a place of tranquil contemplation, isolated from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Metaphorical use of 'souchi' (device) and 'seihitsu' (tranquility).
震災時の避難経路としてのバルコニーの重要性は、近年の防災意識の高まりと共に再認識されている。
The importance of balconies as evacuation routes during earthquakes has been rediscovered alongside the recent rise in disaster prevention awareness.
Complex noun modification and 'to tomo ni' (along with).
バルコニーに放置された廃品が、住環境の荒廃を示唆する象徴的な光景となっている。
The discarded items left on the balcony have become a symbolic sight suggesting the decay of the living environment.
Abstract 'shisa suru' (suggest) and 'shouchouteki' (symbolic).
バルコニーにおける『私』と『公』の境界線は、洗濯物という極めて私的な記号によって曖昧にされる。
The boundary between 'private' and 'public' on the balcony is blurred by the extremely private symbols of laundry.
Philosophical 'kyoukaisen' and 'aimai ni sareru' (blurred).
過密な都市空間において、バルコニーは空を私有化するための唯一の手段とも言えるだろう。
In overcrowded urban spaces, the balcony can be said to be the only means to privatize the sky.
Speculative 'ieru darou' and 'shiyuuka' (privatization).
バルコニーの防水工事を怠ることは、建物全体の構造的整合性を損なうリスクを孕んでいる。
Neglecting balcony waterproofing work carries the risk of compromising the structural integrity of the entire building.
Technical 'kouzouteki seigousei' and 'harande iru' (pregnant with/carries).
ロミオとジュリエットのバルコニーの場面は、時代を超えて人々の想像力を刺激し続けている。
The balcony scene from Romeo and Juliet continues to stimulate people's imagination across eras.
Cultural reference and 'shigeki shi tsuzukete iru' (continues to stimulate).
Häufige Kollokationen
Häufige Phrasen
— To take a short break or catch one's breath on the balcony.
仕事の合間にバルコニーで一息つく。
— The night view from the balcony.
バルコニーからの夜景を独り占めする。
— To cool off on the balcony (usually in summer).
お風呂上がりにバルコニーで涼む。
— Balcony vegetable garden.
バルコニー菜園でハーブを収穫した。
— Balcony waterproofing.
バルコニーの防水工事が必要だ。
— Able to go out onto the balcony.
この窓からバルコニーに出られます。
— Reading on the balcony.
休日の午後はバルコニーで読書を楽しむ。
— The evacuation hatch on the balcony.
バルコニーの避難ハッチの場所を確認する。
— A privacy screen for the balcony.
バルコニーに目隠しを設置した。
— To be lost in thought/melancholy on the balcony at dusk.
夕暮れ時、バルコニーで黄昏れる。
Wird oft verwechselt mit
Technically has a roof; バルコニー does not. Used interchangeably in casual talk.
Usually ground floor; バルコニー is upper floor.
Traditional Japanese porch; バルコニー is Western-style.
Redewendungen & Ausdrücke
— To lean out from the balcony (often used to describe someone looking intently or dangerously).
彼はバルコニーから身を乗り出して下を見た。
Neutral— The balcony acts as a second living room (a lifestyle concept).
家具を置いて、バルコニーを第二のリビングにする。
Lifestyle— To connect via the balcony (referring to social interaction between neighbors).
都会ではバルコニーでつながる近所付き合いもある。
Social— Across or through the balcony.
バルコニー越しに隣人と話す。
Neutral— The sense of openness provided by a balcony.
バルコニーの開放感がこの部屋の魅力だ。
Neutral— To be driven out to the balcony (often used for smokers in a non-smoking house).
お父さんはバルコニーに追いやられてタバコを吸っている。
Informal— To decorate/color the balcony (usually with plants).
色とりどりの花がバルコニーを彩っている。
Literary— The view/outlook from the balcony (more formal than 'naggame').
バルコニーからの眺望は抜群だ。
Formal— To stand still on a balcony (poetic).
月明かりの下、彼女はバルコニーに佇んでいた。
Literary— Effective utilization of balcony space.
狭いバルコニーの有効活用法を考える。
NeutralLeicht verwechselbar
Both are outdoor platforms.
Beranda has a roof (often from the floor above), Barukonii does not.
雨が降っても、ベランダなら洗濯物が濡れにくい。
Both provide outdoor seating.
Terasu is on the ground level; Barukonii is elevated.
カフェのテラスでランチを食べる。
Both are exterior structures.
Poochi is at the entrance; Barukonii is attached to rooms.
玄関のポーチで靴を脱ぐ。
Both are high outdoor spaces.
Okujou is the entire roof of a building; Barukonii is a specific platform for a unit.
屋上で星を見る。
Both can be used for flooring.
Dekki refers to the wooden platform itself, often on the ground or a large balcony.
ウッドデッキでBBQをする。
Satzmuster
[Place] に バルコニー が あります。
アパートにバルコニーがあります。
バルコニー で [Verb-masu].
バルコニーで本を読みます。
バルコニー から [Noun] が 見えます。
バルコニーから山が見えます。
バルコニー に [Noun] を 干します。
バルコニーに布団を干します。
[Adjective] バルコニー が ほしい です。
日当たりのいいバルコニーがほしいです。
バルコニー に [Noun] を 置かないでください。
バルコニーにゴミを置かないでください。
バルコニー は [Noun] としての 役割 を 果たしている。
バルコニーは避難経路としての役割を果たしている。
バルコニー 越しに [Action]。
バルコニー越しに会話を楽しむ。
Wortfamilie
Substantive
Verben
Adjektive
Verwandt
So verwendest du es
High (Daily life, real estate, travel)
-
Using 'バルコニー' for a ground floor deck.
→
テラス (terasu)
In Japan, 'balcony' implies an upper floor.
-
Spelling it as 'バルコニ' without the long vowel.
→
バルコニー
Katakana loanwords often preserve the long vowel at the end.
-
Assuming all balconies have roofs.
→
ベランダ (beranda)
If it has a roof, 'beranda' is the more accurate term.
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Using 'バルコニー' to describe a traditional engawa.
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縁側 (engawa)
The cultural context of an engawa is very different from a Western balcony.
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Saying 'バルコニーを干す'.
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バルコニーに洗濯物を干す
You don't 'dry the balcony'; you dry laundry 'on' the balcony.
Tipps
Laundry Rituals
The balcony is the heart of Japanese housework. Learning words like 'hosu' (to dry) and 'sentakumono' (laundry) goes hand-in-hand with 'balcony'.
Emergency Access
Never block the evacuation hatch or the thin partition between you and your neighbor. These are vital for fire safety.
Real Estate Lingo
When looking at floor plans, look for 'B' or 'バルコニー'. 'W-バルコニー' means two balconies.
Small Spaces
Balcony gardening is a huge hobby. Search for 'barukonii gaadeningu' for inspiration on using small spaces.
Be Quiet
Sound travels easily between balconies. Keep conversations and music at a low volume to maintain good 'kinjo-zukiai' (neighborly relations).
Sunlight Matters
The term 'hiatari' (sunlight) is often paired with balcony. A sunny balcony can significantly lower your heating bills.
Drainage
Check the balcony drains (haisuikou) regularly. Leaves and dirt can cause flooding during heavy rain.
Smoking
Smoking on balconies is a major source of conflict in Japan. It's best to avoid it if you live in an apartment.
Common Area
Technically, you don't 'own' your balcony; it's a common area you have the right to use. This means you can't build permanent structures on it.
Morning Coffee
Despite the utility, many Japanese enjoy 'uchi-kafe' (home cafe) vibes on their balcony. It's a great way to enjoy the seasons.
Einprägen
Eselsbrücke
Imagine a 'BAR' on a 'COOL' 'KNEE' sticking out of a building. BAR-U-KO-NII.
Visuelle Assoziation
Picture a cat sitting on a high railing with the Tokyo skyline in the background.
Word Web
Herausforderung
Try to describe five things you can see from your imaginary Japanese balcony using only Japanese adjectives.
Wortherkunft
Derived from the English word 'balcony', which itself comes from the Italian 'balcone'.
Ursprüngliche Bedeutung: A large window or a platform projecting from a wall.
Indo-European (via Germanic/Latin into Italian and English, then borrowed into Japanese).Kultureller Kontext
Be aware that in Japan, talking loudly or having a BBQ on a balcony is often considered 'meiwaku' (a nuisance) to neighbors.
In the West, balconies are often for leisure; in Japan, they are highly functional utility spaces first.
Im Alltag üben
Kontexte aus dem Alltag
Real Estate
- 南向きバルコニー
- バルコニー面積
- ルーフバルコニー付き
- サービスバルコニー
Daily Chores
- 洗濯物を干す
- 布団を干す
- バルコニーを掃く
- ゴミを置く
Hobby
- バルコニー菜園
- ガーデニング
- ウッドデッキを敷く
- 椅子を置く
Safety
- 避難ハッチ
- 手すりに登る
- 荷物を置かない
- 落下防止
Leisure
- 夜景を眺める
- 涼む
- コーヒーを飲む
- 読書する
Gesprächseinstiege
"あなたの部屋にはバルコニーがありますか? (Does your room have a balcony?)"
"バルコニーで何か植物を育てていますか? (Are you growing any plants on your balcony?)"
"バルコニーからの眺めはどうですか? (How is the view from your balcony?)"
"日本ではバルコニーに洗濯物を干すのが普通ですよね。 (In Japan, it's normal to hang laundry on the balcony, isn't it?)"
"理想のバルコニーはどんな感じですか? (What is your ideal balcony like?)"
Tagebuch-Impulse
今日は天気が良かったので、バルコニーで過ごしました。何をしましたか? (Today the weather was good, so I spent time on the balcony. What did you do?)
もし広いバルコニーがあったら、どんな家具を置きたいですか? (If you had a wide balcony, what kind of furniture would you want to put there?)
バルコニーから見える景色について詳しく書いてください。 (Write in detail about the scenery you can see from the balcony.)
バルコニーでのガーデニングについて、あなたの考えを書いてください。 (Write your thoughts on balcony gardening.)
アパートのバルコニーでバーベキューをすることについて、どう思いますか? (What do you think about having a BBQ on an apartment balcony?)
Häufig gestellte Fragen
10 FragenUsually no. Most apartment rules (kanri kiyaku) prohibit it due to smoke and fire risks. Always check your contract.
Yes, it is the standard way to dry clothes in Japan. However, some high-end apartments forbid hanging items over the railing.
A very small balcony, often near the kitchen or bathroom, intended for air conditioner outdoor units or temporary trash storage.
It receives the most sunlight throughout the day, which is essential for drying laundry and keeping the room warm in winter.
No. In Japan, balconies are considered 'common areas' for exclusive use, so they are not included in the calculated living space (menseki).
Move everything indoors. Strong winds can turn flowerpots and chairs into dangerous projectiles.
It is an emergency evacuation hatch (hinan hatchi). In case of fire, you open it and use the ladder to go down to the floor below.
It depends on the building rules. Many modern apartments have banned 'hotaru-zoku' (firefly tribe - people who smoke on balconies at night) due to neighbor complaints.
A roof balcony (ruufu barukonii) is located on the roof of the unit below, providing a much larger, flat space.
Usually with a broom and a small amount of water. Be careful not to let large amounts of water leak onto the neighbors' balconies below.
Teste dich selbst 180 Fragen
Write a sentence: 'There is a cat on the balcony.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a sentence: 'I hung the laundry on the balcony.'
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Write a sentence: 'I want an apartment with a wide balcony.'
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Write a sentence: 'You can see Mt. Fuji from the balcony.'
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Write a sentence: 'Please don't smoke on the balcony.'
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Write a sentence: 'I am growing tomatoes on the balcony.'
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Write a sentence: 'The balcony has good sunlight.'
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Write a sentence: 'Because of the typhoon, I brought the plants inside from the balcony.'
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Write a sentence: 'I plan to clean the balcony tomorrow.'
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Write a sentence: 'The balcony scene in Romeo and Juliet is famous.'
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Write a sentence: 'Please check the evacuation hatch on the balcony.'
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Write a sentence: 'I enjoy drinking coffee on the balcony in the morning.'
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Write a sentence: 'The balcony is a common area of the apartment.'
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Write a sentence: 'He was standing on the balcony looking at the night view.'
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Write a sentence: 'The balcony provides a sense of openness.'
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Write a sentence: 'I put a wood deck on the balcony floor.'
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Write a sentence: 'Don't lean out from the balcony.'
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Write a sentence: 'The neighbor's voice can be heard from the balcony.'
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Write a sentence: 'A south-facing balcony is ideal for laundry.'
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Write a sentence: 'The balcony drain is clogged.'
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Describe your house's balcony in Japanese.
Read this aloud:
Du hast gesagt:
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Say: 'I'm going to the balcony to dry the laundry.'
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Ask: 'Does this hotel room have a balcony?'
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Explain why you like balconies.
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Warn someone: 'Don't climb on the balcony railing.'
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Say: 'I can see the fireworks from the balcony.'
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Talk about balcony gardening.
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Discuss the difference between balcony and veranda.
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Say: 'Let's have coffee on the balcony.'
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Explain typhoon safety for balconies.
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Say: 'The view from the balcony is the best part of this room.'
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Describe a roof balcony.
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Say: 'I'm cleaning the balcony today.'
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Ask for a south-facing balcony at a real estate agent.
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Say: 'I felt a cool breeze on the balcony.'
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Describe the night view from a balcony.
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Say: 'Please don't leave trash on the balcony.'
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Explain 'hiatari' in relation to a balcony.
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Say: 'The balcony is wet because of the rain.'
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Discuss balcony privacy.
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Du hast gesagt:
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Listen and identify the location mentioned: 'バルコニーに洗濯物を干してきますね。'
Listen and identify the action: 'バルコニーで本を読んでいました。'
Listen and identify the problem: 'バルコニーの電気が切れています。'
Listen and identify the warning: 'バルコニーから身を乗り出さないで!'
Listen and identify the object: 'バルコニーに避難はしごがあります。'
Listen and identify the person's wish: 'もっと広いバルコニーがほしいなあ。'
Listen and identify the orientation: 'このバルコニーは南向きです。'
Listen and identify the weather context: '台風が来るから、バルコニーを片付けよう。'
Listen and identify the sound: 'バルコニーから隣のテレビの音が聞こえる。'
Listen and identify the adjective used: 'とても日当たりのいいバルコニーですね。'
Listen and identify the noun: 'バルコニーの手すりを拭いてください。'
Listen and identify the time: '昨夜、バルコニーで月を見ました。'
Listen and identify the plant: 'バルコニーでトマトを育てています。'
Listen and identify the rule: 'バルコニーでのBBQは禁止です。'
Listen and identify the architectural term: 'ルーフバルコニーがこの部屋の特徴です。'
/ 180 correct
Perfect score!
Summary
バルコニー is a vital part of Japanese urban living, serving as a multi-purpose outdoor space for laundry, gardening, and safety. Example: 'バルコニーで洗濯物を干す' (Hanging laundry on the balcony) is a daily ritual for many.
- バルコニー (barukonii) is the Japanese loanword for 'balcony', referring to an outdoor platform on upper floors.
- Technically, in Japan, it lacks a roof, distinguishing it from a 'beranda' which has one.
- It is primarily used for drying laundry and futons, making its sunlight exposure very important.
- It also serves as a leisure space and a critical emergency evacuation route in apartment buildings.
Laundry Rituals
The balcony is the heart of Japanese housework. Learning words like 'hosu' (to dry) and 'sentakumono' (laundry) goes hand-in-hand with 'balcony'.
Emergency Access
Never block the evacuation hatch or the thin partition between you and your neighbor. These are vital for fire safety.
Real Estate Lingo
When looking at floor plans, look for 'B' or 'バルコニー'. 'W-バルコニー' means two balconies.
Small Spaces
Balcony gardening is a huge hobby. Search for 'barukonii gaadeningu' for inspiration on using small spaces.
Verwandte Inhalte
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Mehr home Wörter
上に
B1Auf; über. Wird für die physische Position verwendet.
不在
B1Abwesend; nicht anwesend.
手頃な
B1Erschwinglich, angemessen (Preis). Ein Preis, der nicht zu hoch ist und den man sich leicht leisten kann. Bsp.: Dieses Telefon ist erschwinglich.
お先に
B1Excuse me for going first; said when leaving before others.
仲介
B1Vermittlung oder Agentur, oft im Zusammenhang mit Immobilien oder Geschäften.
あっ
B1Ah! ; ein Ausruf plötzlicher Erkenntnis oder Überraschung. Es wird verwendet, wenn man etwas bemerkt oder jemanden erkennt.
エアコン
A2Das Wort 'エアコン' steht für Klimaanlage, die in Japan sowohl zum Kühlen als auch zum Heizen verwendet wird.
冷暖房
B1Der Begriff <mark>冷暖房</mark> (reidanbō) bezeichnet ein kombiniertes Heiz- und Klimaanlagensystem für einen Raum oder ein Gebäude.
風通しの良い
B1Gut belüftet; luftig. Beschreibt einen Raum mit gutem Luftzug.
~可
A2Ein Suffix, das 'erlaubt' oder 'gestattet' bedeutet. Es wird häufig auf Schildern und in offiziellen Dokumenten verwendet.