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A1 noun #3,669 am häufigsten 10 Min. Lesezeit

海峡

kaikyō
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Erklärung 海峡 in your Level:
At the A1 level, you are just beginning to learn basic Japanese nouns. '海峡' (kaikyou) might seem like a difficult word because it contains complex kanji, but the concept is simple: it is a 'strait' or a narrow piece of water between two pieces of land. Think of it like a 'water road' between islands. At this level, you don't need to write the kanji, but you should recognize the sound 'kaikyou' when you hear about famous places in Japan. For example, if you visit Hokkaido, you might hear about the 'Tsugaru Kaikyo'. You can use it in very simple sentences like 'Umi no kyou' (the sea's narrow part) to help you remember. Even though the prompt labels this A1, in reality, Japanese students learn this word in elementary school geography. For an English speaker at A1, focus on the fact that 'kai' means 'sea' (as in 'umi') and 'kyou' means 'narrow'. It is most useful for identifying names on a map or understanding that a ferry is crossing a specific body of water. You might see it on a travel brochure. Just remember: Kaikyou = Strait. It's a noun, so you can use it with 'desu' (It is a strait) or 'arimasu' (There is a strait). Don't worry about the complex grammar yet; just treat it as a vocabulary item for locations.
At the A2 level, you can start using '海峡' (kaikyou) in more descriptive sentences. You know basic particles like 'ni', 'o', and 'de', so you can say things like 'Kaikyou o watarimasu' (I cross the strait) or 'Kaikyou ni hashi ga arimasu' (There is a bridge over the strait). You might also start to learn the kanji. The first kanji '海' (sea) is very common, and the second one '峡' (gorge) is more specific but easy to remember because it has the 'mountain' radical on the left. At this level, you can understand weather reports that mention 'kaikyou' when they talk about wind or waves. You might also encounter it in simple history or geography readings. You should be able to distinguish 'kaikyou' from 'umi' (sea) and 'kaigan' (coast). A 'kaikyou' is specifically the narrow part where ships pass through. If you are planning a trip to Japan, knowing this word helps you understand ferry routes. You can also use adjectives to describe it, such as 'semai kaikyou' (a narrow strait) or 'fukai kaikyou' (a deep strait). This level is about building context—knowing that 'kaikyou' is a place where something happens, like a boat moving or a bridge being built.
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At the B1 level, you are expected to use '海峡' (kaikyou) in a variety of contexts, including discussing travel experiences, geography, and perhaps basic environmental issues. You should be comfortable with the kanji and its reading. You will likely encounter this word in intermediate listening materials, such as news clips or documentaries about Japan's islands. You can now use more complex verb forms, like 'Kaikyou o watatte iru toki...' (While crossing the strait...). You should also be aware of common compound words like 'kaikyou tonneru' (strait tunnel) or 'kaikyou oudan' (crossing a strait). At this level, you might learn about the cultural significance of straits in Japan, such as the famous whirlpools in the Naruto Strait. You can explain why a strait is important: 'Kaikyou wa bouseki ni totte juuyou desu' (Straits are important for trade). You are also starting to see the word in literature or song lyrics, where it might have a more emotional or symbolic meaning. Your ability to distinguish 'kaikyou' from 'suidou' (channel) or 'unga' (canal) becomes more important here as you aim for more precise Japanese. You can describe the difficulty of navigating a strait due to 'shio no nagare' (tidal currents).
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At the B2 level, '海峡' (kaikyou) is a word you should be able to use fluently in discussions about geography, international relations, and history. You understand that straits are not just physical features but also strategic locations. You can discuss the 'Taiwan Kaikyou' (Taiwan Strait) and its role in global politics, or the 'Hormuz Kaikyou' (Strait of Hormuz) in the context of energy security. You are familiar with formal expressions like 'kaikyou o tsuuka suru' (to pass through a strait) and can use the word in written reports or formal presentations. You also understand the nuances between 'kaikyou' and 'suidou', knowing that 'kaikyou' is generally used for larger, more significant passages. In terms of culture, you can appreciate the imagery of the 'kaikyou' in Enka music or modern novels, recognizing it as a motif for separation or a threshold. You can also discuss the engineering challenges of building bridges like the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge. Your vocabulary is rich enough to use related terms like 'seto' or 'kyoukoku' (canyon) to contrast with 'kaikyou'. You can read newspaper articles about maritime accidents or territorial disputes in straits without much difficulty. At this level, the word is a tool for discussing complex topics involving logistics, defense, and national identity.
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At the C1 level, your understanding of '海峡' (kaikyou) extends to its technical and legal definitions. You can discuss 'kokusai kaikyou' (international straits) and the specific legal regimes that govern them under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). You are aware that Japan has five 'specified sea areas' (tokutei kaiki) in straits like the Soya and Tsugaru Straits, where the territorial sea limit is kept at 3 nautical miles instead of 12 to allow for the passage of international vessels, including those carrying nuclear weapons. This is a highly specialized level of knowledge. You can use 'kaikyou' in academic writing, analyzing the historical impact of straits on migration, trade, and warfare. You can interpret the symbolic use of 'kaikyou' in high literature, where it might represent a psychological barrier or a point of no return. You are also capable of understanding and using technical maritime jargon associated with straits, such as 'tsuuka tsuukou-ken' (right of transit passage). Your command of the word is indistinguishable from a native speaker with a high level of education, allowing you to engage in professional debates or deep cultural analyses involving Japan's maritime geography.
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At the C2 level, you have a masterly command of '海峡' (kaikyou) and all its connotations. You can use it with absolute precision in any context, from a scientific paper on oceanography to a poetic critique of Japanese Enka. You are familiar with the most obscure historical straits and their roles in ancient maritime routes. You can discuss the etymology of the kanji '峡' in depth, comparing its usage in Chinese and Japanese contexts. You understand the subtle emotional weight the word carries in various regional dialects or historical periods. In discussions of geopolitics, you can provide nuanced arguments about the 'Malacca Kaikyou' (Strait of Malacca) and its impact on global supply chains, using 'kaikyou' as a focal point for complex socio-economic theories. You can effortlessly switch between formal, academic, and literary registers when using the word. Your ability to use 'kaikyou' in metaphors is sophisticated—for example, describing a narrow window of opportunity as a 'kaikyou' that must be navigated with extreme skill. You are not only a user of the language but a connoisseur of its geographical and cultural nuances, viewing the 'kaikyou' as a vital link in the tapestry of human history and the physical world.
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海峡 in 30 Sekunden

  • 海峡 (kaikyou) means 'strait' or 'channel', a narrow sea passage between land.
  • It is essential for Japanese geography, describing links between its many islands.
  • Commonly used with verbs like 'wataru' (cross) and adjectives like 'semai' (narrow).
  • It holds deep cultural significance in Japan, often appearing in traditional Enka songs.
The Japanese word 海峡 (かいきょう - kaikyou) is a geographical term that translates directly to 'strait' or 'channel' in English. It is composed of two kanji characters: 海 (umi), meaning 'sea' or 'ocean', and 峡 (hazama/kyou), meaning 'gorge', 'ravine', or 'narrow valley'. When combined, they literally describe a 'sea gorge'—a narrow passage of water that connects two larger bodies of water and is typically flanked by land on both sides. In a country like Japan, which is an archipelago consisting of thousands of islands, the concept of a kaikyou is fundamental to understanding the nation's geography, history, and transportation networks.
Geographical Context
A kaikyou is defined by its restrictive width relative to the expansive seas it connects. For example, the Tsugaru Strait connects the Sea of Japan with the Pacific Ocean.
Navigational Use
In maritime contexts, this word identifies critical shipping lanes where vessels must navigate carefully due to narrow paths and often strong tidal currents.

日本には多くの有名な海峡があります。 (Japan has many famous straits.)

People use this word most frequently in educational settings, news reports regarding maritime boundary disputes or shipping accidents, and in travel contexts when discussing ferries or bridges that cross between islands. For instance, the Kanmon Strait (関門海峡) is a household name in Japan because it separates the main island of Honshu from Kyushu.

ドーバー海峡はイギリスとフランスの間にあります。 (The Strait of Dover is between England and France.)

Understanding this word is essential for reading maps and weather reports in Japan. Because straits often have unique weather patterns—such as high winds or fog—you will hear weather forecasters mention specific kaikyou names daily. Culturally, the word often carries a sense of separation or a challenging crossing, a theme frequently explored in Japanese literature and folk music (Enka), where the strait represents a physical and emotional barrier between lovers or a person and their hometown.
Symbolic Meaning
Metaphorically, it can represent a difficult transition point or a bottleneck in a process, though this is less common than the literal geographical usage.

この海峡を渡るのは危険です。 (Crossing this strait is dangerous.)

鳴門海峡の渦潮は有名です。 (The whirlpools of the Naruto Strait are famous.)

船は静かに海峡を通過した。 (The ship quietly passed through the strait.)

Using 海峡 in a sentence is relatively straightforward as it functions as a standard noun. However, there are specific verbs and particles that commonly accompany it to describe movement, location, or state. The most common verb used with kaikyou is 渡る (wataru - to cross). When you want to say you are crossing a strait by boat or bridge, you use the particle 'o' to indicate the space being traversed. For example, 'Kaikyou o wataru' (to cross the strait). Another frequent verb is 通過する (tsuuka suru - to pass through), which is more formal and often used in shipping or military contexts.
Directional Particles
When describing the location of a strait, use 'ni' or 'de'. For example, 'Kaikyou ni hashi ga kakatte iru' (A bridge spans the strait).
Naming Conventions
In Japanese, the name of the place comes before 'kaikyou' without any particle. For instance, 'Tsugaru-kaikyou' or 'Bering-kaikyou'.

私たちはフェリーで海峡を渡りました。 (We crossed the strait by ferry.)

If you are describing the properties of the strait, you might use adjectives like 狭い (semai - narrow), 深い (fukai - deep), or 険しい (kewashii - treacherous/steep). Because straits are often windy, the phrase kaikyou no kaze (the wind of the strait) is a common poetic and descriptive expression.

その海峡は潮の流れが非常に速い。 (The tidal currents in that strait are extremely fast.)

In academic or news writing, you will see it used in compound nouns like 海峡横断 (kaikyou oudan - crossing the strait) or 海峡トンネル (kaikyou tonneru - strait tunnel). These compounds help condense information. For example, the Seikan Tunnel is often referred to as a kaikyou tonneru.
Common Verb Pairings
1. 渡る (wataru - to cross)
2. 臨む (nozomu - to overlook/face)
3. 隔てる (hedateru - to separate)

二つの国は狭い海峡で隔てられている。 (The two countries are separated by a narrow strait.)

ジブラルタル海峡は地中海の入り口です。 (The Strait of Gibraltar is the entrance to the Mediterranean.)

彼は泳いで海峡を渡る計画を立てた。 (He planned to swim across the strait.)

You will encounter the word 海峡 in a variety of real-world scenarios, ranging from the mundane to the highly specialized. One of the most common places is in geography classes and textbooks. Japanese students learn about the major straits surrounding their country early on, as these define the national borders and regional divisions. In news broadcasts, the word appears frequently in reports about international relations, especially concerning the Taiwan Strait (台湾海峡) or the Strait of Hormuz (ホルムズ海峡), which are geopolitically sensitive areas.
Travel & Tourism
If you take a ferry from Aomori to Hakodate, or travel across the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, you will see '海峡' written on signs, tickets, and maps everywhere.
Weather Reports
Meteorologists often warn of 'kaikyou-bu' (strait areas) having higher waves or stronger winds compared to the open sea or sheltered bays.

ニュース：海峡付近で強風注意報が出ています。 (News: A strong wind warning is in effect near the strait.)

In Japanese pop culture, particularly in the Enka genre of music, the word is iconic. Enka songs often use the 'kaikyou' as a metaphor for the physical and emotional distance between lovers. The cold winds and crashing waves of a northern strait perfectly mirror the loneliness and longing of the singer. Songs like 'Tsugaru Kaikyo Fuyugeshiki' (Tsugaru Strait Winter Scenery) are cultural touchstones that every Japanese person knows.

演歌の歌詞：海峡を越えて、あなたに会いに行く。 (Lyrics: Crossing the strait, I go to meet you.)

Furthermore, in history documentaries, you will hear about the Mongol Invasions (where the straits played a defensive role) or the construction of the Seikan Tunnel under the Tsugaru Strait. In maritime industries, sailors and logistics experts use the term to discuss routes and fuel efficiency, as passing through a strait often involves paying tolls or adhering to specific international laws.
Literary Usage
Novelists use the word to set a dramatic scene, often highlighting the isolation of an island or the danger of a sea voyage.

明石海峡大橋は世界最長の吊り橋の一つです。 (The Akashi Kaikyo Bridge is one of the longest suspension bridges in the world.)

船乗りたちは海峡の険しい波を恐れていた。 (The sailors feared the treacherous waves of the strait.)

地図でこの海峡を探してください。 (Please find this strait on the map.)

While 海峡 is a relatively specific term, learners of Japanese often confuse it with other water-related vocabulary. The most common mistake is using it interchangeably with 水道 (suidou) or 運河 (unga). While all three involve narrow passages of water, their nuances are distinct.
海峡 vs. 運河 (Unga)
An 'unga' is a man-made canal (like the Suez Canal), whereas a 'kaikyou' is a natural formation. Calling the Tsugaru Strait an 'unga' would imply it was dug by humans.
海峡 vs. 水道 (Suidou)
While both mean 'channel' or 'strait', 'suidou' is often used for smaller, narrower passages between islands, or it can mean 'waterworks/plumbing'. Using 'suidou' for a major international strait like the Bering Strait sounds unnatural.

間違い：パナマ海峡 (Mistake: Panama Strait - it should be Panama Canal/運河).

Another mistake involves the pronunciation and kanji. The 'kyou' in kaikyou uses the character 峡, which is somewhat rare. Students often confuse it with 狭 (semai - narrow). While the meanings are related, they are not interchangeable in writing. Furthermore, ensure you don't confuse kaikyou with 海岸 (kaigan - coast). A 'kaikyou' is a passage you go through, while a 'kaigan' is the edge of the land you walk along.

間違い：海峡を散歩する (Mistake: To take a walk in the strait - you'd walk along the 'kaigan'/coast, not in the water of the strait).

In terms of grammar, beginners sometimes forget that 'kaikyou' is a formal noun and might try to use it in very casual slang, where it doesn't quite fit. It's a geographical term, so it maintains a certain level of descriptive dignity. Lastly, be careful with the particle usage; use 'o' when crossing through it, but 'ni' when stating something is located within it. Mixing these up can change the meaning from 'crossing the strait' to 'being in the strait'.
Summary of Confusion
1. Confusing with Canal (運河)
2. Confusing with Coast (海岸)
3. Incorrect Kanji (狭 vs 峡)
4. Particle errors (o vs ni)

正しい：津軽海峡を渡る。 (Correct: Cross the Tsugaru Strait.)

間違い：津軽海峡を歩く。 (Mistake: Walk the Tsugaru Strait - unless you are Jesus or in a tunnel!)

船は海峡の真ん中で止まった。 (The ship stopped in the middle of the strait.)

To enrich your Japanese vocabulary, it's helpful to compare 海峡 with other words that describe bodies of water or passages. While 'kaikyou' is the standard word for 'strait', several synonyms and related terms exist depending on the size, location, and nature of the water passage.
水道 (Suidou)
Meaning 'channel' or 'waterway'. It is often used for smaller straits between islands, especially in the Seto Inland Sea. Examples include the Bungo Channel (豊後水道). It also commonly means 'tap water' or 'water supply'.
瀬戸 (Seto)
A more traditional Japanese word for a narrow strait or channel. It's famous in the name 'Seto Naikai' (Seto Inland Sea). It implies a place with many islands and narrow, often shallow, passages.

この水道は小型船しか通れません。 (Only small boats can pass through this channel.)

For larger expanses of water, you might use 海原 (unabara - the vast ocean) or 沖 (oki - offshore/open sea). If you are talking about a bay or an inlet, use 湾 (wan). For example, Tokyo Bay is 'Tokyo-wan'.

東京湾はとても広いです。 (Tokyo Bay is very large.)

Another related term is 瀬 (se), which refers to a shallow part of a river or sea, or a rapid current. In some contexts, 門 (mon - gate) is used in the names of straits, such as 'Kanmon' (関門), which literally means 'The Gateway of the Barrier'. This highlights the strategic importance of the passage as a gateway between regions.
Register Differences
'Kaikyou' is the scientific and formal term. 'Seto' or 'Suidou' are more descriptive of local geography. 'Unga' is strictly for man-made structures.

パナマ運河は船の近道です。 (The Panama Canal is a shortcut for ships.)

鳴門の瀬は流れが急だ。 (The currents in the Naruto shallows are swift.)

船は広い海原へと出て行った。 (The ship went out into the vast ocean.)

How Formal Is It?

Wusstest du?

The kanji 峡 is also used for 'gorges' on land. In Japan, because mountains often drop directly into the sea, the transition from a mountain gorge to a sea strait is a common geographical feature.

Aussprachehilfe

UK /kaɪ.kjoʊ/
US /kaɪ.kjoʊ/
The stress is relatively even, but there is a slight pitch drop after the first syllable 'kai' in standard Tokyo Japanese (Heiban accent).
Reimt sich auf
Tokyo (東京) Doukyou (同郷 - same hometown) Saikyou (最強 - strongest) Aikyou (愛嬌 - charm) Koukyou (公共 - public) Soukyou (宗教 - religion, though actually shuukyou) Houkyou (補強 - reinforcement) Joukyou (状況 - situation)
Häufige Fehler
  • Pronouncing 'kyou' as two syllables (ki-yo). It should be one.
  • Shortening the 'ou' sound to a short 'o'.
  • Confusing the 'kai' sound with 'kei'.
  • Mixing up the pitch accent, making it sound like 'kyo' (today).
  • Ignoring the 'i' in 'kai', making it sound like 'ka'.

Schwierigkeitsgrad

Lesen 3/5

Kanji for 'kyou' is slightly advanced (N2 level), but the word is common.

Schreiben 4/5

The kanji 峡 has many strokes and is easy to miswrite.

Sprechen 2/5

Pronunciation is simple if you master the long vowel 'ou'.

Hören 2/5

Clear phonetic profile, though can be confused with other 'kyou' words.

Was du als Nächstes lernen solltest

Voraussetzungen

海 (Sea) 山 (Mountain) 狭い (Narrow) 船 (Ship) 渡る (To cross)

Als Nächstes lernen

湾 (Bay) 半島 (Peninsula) 潮流 (Tidal current) 航路 (Sea route) 領海 (Territorial waters)

Fortgeschritten

隘路 (Bottleneck) 地政学 (Geopolitics) 排他的経済水域 (EEZ) 大陸棚 (Continental shelf)

Wichtige Grammatik

Noun + を渡る (Crossing a space)

海峡を渡る。

Noun + に面する (Facing a location)

海峡に面した町。

Noun + を通じて (Through/via)

海峡を通じて貿易を行う。

A と B を隔てる (Separating A and B)

海峡が二つの島を隔てている。

Noun + 沿い (Along)

海峡沿いの道。

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Beispiele nach Niveau

1

これは海峡です。

This is a strait.

Simple noun + desu structure.

2

海峡は青いです。

The strait is blue.

Using a basic adjective with the noun.

3

海峡に船があります。

There is a ship in the strait.

Using 'ni arimasu' for location.

4

海峡を渡ります。

I cross the strait.

The particle 'o' marks the space being crossed.

5

あの海峡は狭いです。

That strait is narrow.

Using 'ano' (that over there) and 'semai' (narrow).

6

海峡の近くに住んでいます。

I live near the strait.

Using 'no chikaku ni' (near).

7

有名な海峡はどこですか？

Where is the famous strait?

Question form using 'doko' (where).

8

海峡はきれいです。

The strait is beautiful.

Using the na-adjective 'kirei'.

1

フェリーで海峡を渡りましょう。

Let's cross the strait by ferry.

Using '-mashou' for a suggestion.

2

海峡には大きな橋がかかっています。

A big bridge spans the strait.

Using 'kakatte iru' to describe a bridge spanning a distance.

3

海峡の天気は変わりやすいです。

The weather in the strait is changeable.

Using 'kawariyasui' (easy to change).

4

この海峡は北海道と本州の間にあります。

This strait is between Hokkaido and Honshu.

Using 'A to B no aida' (between A and B).

5

海峡の波は今日とても高いです。

The waves in the strait are very high today.

Possessive 'no' linking sea and waves.

6

昨日は海峡が霧で見えませんでした。

Yesterday, the strait couldn't be seen because of fog.

Using 'de' for cause/reason (fog).

7

海峡を泳いで渡る人はすごいです。

People who swim across the strait are amazing.

Noun modification with a verb phrase.

8

海峡の名前を教えてください。

Please tell me the name of the strait.

Polite request with '-te kudasai'.

1

海峡を渡るには、約一時間かかります。

It takes about an hour to cross the strait.

Using 'ni wa' to indicate the purpose/condition.

2

強い風のせいで、海峡のフェリーが止まりました。

Because of the strong wind, the strait ferry stopped.

Using 'no sei de' for a negative cause.

3

この海峡は、昔から交通の要所でした。

This strait has been a key point for transportation since ancient times.

Using 'yousho' (key point/strategic location).

4

海峡の下には長いトンネルが通っています。

A long tunnel runs beneath the strait.

Using 'no shita' (underneath).

5

海峡を通過する船の数は、年々増えています。

The number of ships passing through the strait is increasing year by year.

Using 'nen-nen' (year by year).

6

海峡の景色を楽しむために、展望台へ行きました。

I went to the observatory to enjoy the view of the strait.

Using 'tame ni' for purpose.

7

その海峡は、二つの異なる海流が混ざる場所です。

That strait is a place where two different ocean currents mix.

Relative clause describing the 'basho' (place).

8

海峡の向こう側に、小さな島が見えます。

On the other side of the strait, you can see a small island.

Using 'mukougawa' (the other side).

1

国際海峡としての法的地位を検討する必要があります。

It is necessary to examine the legal status as an international strait.

Formal noun 'houteki chii' (legal status).

2

海峡の幅が狭いため、大型船の航行は困難です。

Because the width of the strait is narrow, navigation for large ships is difficult.

Using 'tame' as a formal reason.

3

この海峡は、地政学的に非常に重要な意味を持っています。

This strait has a very important geopolitical significance.

Using 'chiseigaku-teki' (geopolitically).

4

海峡横断道路の建設には、膨大な費用がかかりました。

The construction of the cross-strait road cost a huge amount of money.

Compound noun 'kaikyou oudan douro'.

5

海峡に生息する独自の生態系を保護しなければなりません。

We must protect the unique ecosystem that inhabits the strait.

Using 'seikutai-kei' (ecosystem).

6

悪天候により、海峡の航路が一時閉鎖されました。

Due to bad weather, the strait's shipping route was temporarily closed.

Passive voice 'heisa sareta' (was closed).

7

海峡の潮流を利用した発電技術が注目されています。

Power generation technology using the strait's tidal currents is attracting attention.

Using 'chouryuu' (tidal current).

8

海峡を挟んで、二つの文化が独自に発展しました。

Across the strait, two cultures developed independently.

Using 'o hasande' (across/sandwiching).

1

領海法に基づき、特定の海峡における領海の幅が制限されている。

Based on the Territorial Sea Act, the width of the territorial sea in specific straits is limited.

Formal 'motozuki' (based on).

2

海峡の深層部における水温の変化が、地球温暖化の影響を示唆している。

Changes in water temperature in the deep parts of the strait suggest the effects of global warming.

Using 'shisa shite iru' (suggesting/implying).

3

海峡の防衛は、国家安全保障上の最優先事項の一つである。

The defense of the strait is one of the top priorities for national security.

Using 'kokka anzen houshou' (national security).

4

その小説は、海峡を越える移民たちの苦難を克明に描いている。

The novel vividly depicts the hardships of migrants crossing the strait.

Using 'kokumei ni' (vividly/minutely).

5

海峡の堆積物を分析することで、過去の気候変動を解明できる。

By analyzing the sediments of the strait, we can clarify past climate changes.

Using 'kaimei dekiru' (can clarify/solve).

6

海峡における船舶の衝突事故を防ぐため、厳格な航行ルールが定められた。

To prevent ship collisions in the strait, strict navigation rules were established.

Using 'genkaku na' (strict).

7

海峡の潮汐エネルギーは、再生可能エネルギーの有望な供給源である。

The tidal energy of the strait is a promising source of renewable energy.

Using 'yuubou na' (promising).

8

海峡を巡る領土問題は、依然として解決の糸口が見えていない。

The territorial issues surrounding the strait still show no signs of resolution.

Using 'itoguchi' (clue/thread/sign).

1

海峡という隘路が、歴史の転換点において決定的な役割を果たしてきた事実は否定できない。

It cannot be denied that the bottleneck of the strait has played a decisive role at turning points in history.

Using 'airo' (bottleneck/narrow path) as a metaphor.

2

海峡の複雑な水理学的特性は、現代のシミュレーション技術を以てしても完全な予測は困難である。

The complex hydraulic characteristics of the strait are difficult to predict perfectly, even with modern simulation technology.

Using 'o motte shite mo' (even with).

3

万葉集における海峡の詠まれ方は、当時の日本人の自然観を如実に物語っている。

The way straits are composed in the Man'yoshu vividly tells of the ancient Japanese view of nature.

Using 'nyojitsu ni' (vividly/realistically).

4

海峡の閉鎖は、グローバルなサプライチェーンに対して壊滅的な打撃を与える蓋然性が高い。

The closure of the strait has a high probability of dealing a devastating blow to the global supply chain.

Using 'gaizensei' (probability/likelihood).

5

海峡の深淵に眠る難破船の残骸は、過ぎ去った時代の沈黙の証人である。

The wrecks of sunken ships sleeping in the depths of the strait are silent witnesses to a bygone era.

Poetic expression 'chinmoku no shounin' (silent witness).

6

海峡における主権の行使は、国際慣習法との整合性を常に問われる。

The exercise of sovereignty in the strait is always questioned for its consistency with international customary law.

Using 'seigousei' (consistency/integrity).

7

海峡の潮流が織りなす複雑な模様は、カオス理論の生きた実例のようである。

The complex patterns woven by the strait's currents are like a living example of chaos theory.

Using 'orinasu' (to weave/create).

8

海峡という境界線は、単なる地理的区分を超え、精神的な隔たりをも象徴している。

The boundary of the strait transcends simple geographical division, symbolizing a spiritual gap as well.

Using 'chouetsu' (transcend).

Synonyme

水路 瀬戸 チャンネル 瀬 水道

Gegenteile

大洋 大海

Häufige Kollokationen

海峡を渡る
海峡を越える
海峡に臨む
海峡の潮流
海峡横断
国際海峡
海峡大橋
海峡の風
海峡トンネル
海峡を隔てて

Häufige Phrasen

津軽海峡

— The strait between Honshu and Hokkaido. Famous for its cold weather and the Seikan Tunnel.

津軽海峡をフェリーで渡る。

鳴門海峡

— The strait between Awaji Island and Shikoku. Famous for large whirlpools.

鳴門海峡の渦潮を見に行く。

関門海峡

— The strait separating Honshu and Kyushu. A major industrial and shipping hub.

関門海峡にはトンネルがあります。

ドーバー海峡

— The Strait of Dover, between the UK and France.

ドーバー海峡を泳いで渡る。

ジブラルタル海峡

— The Strait of Gibraltar, connecting the Atlantic and Mediterranean.

ジブラルタル海峡は戦略的に重要だ。

台湾海峡

— The Taiwan Strait. Often mentioned in geopolitical news.

台湾海峡の緊張が高まっている。

ホルムズ海峡

— The Strait of Hormuz. Critical for global oil shipping.

ホルムズ海峡の安全が守られる。

海峡の冬景色

— Winter scenery of a strait, a common poetic theme.

海峡の冬景色は寂しい。

明石海峡

— The strait between Kobe and Awaji Island, home to the world's longest suspension bridge.

明石海峡大橋は美しい。

宗谷海峡

— The La Pérouse Strait between Hokkaido and Sakhalin.

宗谷海峡は日本の北端にある。

Wird oft verwechselt mit

海峡 vs 水道 (Suidou)

Suidou is often used for smaller channels or plumbing; Kaikyou is for larger, major straits.

海峡 vs 運河 (Unga)

Unga is man-made (canal); Kaikyou is natural (strait).

海峡 vs 海岸 (Kaigan)

Kaigan is the beach/coastline; Kaikyou is the water passage itself.

Redewendungen & Ausdrücke

"海峡を越える"

— To overcome a great physical or emotional barrier. Often used in stories of reunions.

十年の時を経て、彼は海峡を越えて帰ってきた。

Literary
"狭き海峡"

— A metaphor for a very difficult and narrow path or choice.

人生の狭き海峡を通り抜ける。

Metaphorical
"海峡の荒波"

— The rough waves of a strait; metaphorically, the hardships of life or society.

社会の海峡の荒波に揉まれる。

Poetic
"一筋の海峡"

— A single narrow passage; can imply a thin hope or a specific route.

一筋の海峡を頼りに進む。

Literary
"海峡の風に吹かれる"

— To experience the harsh realities of a coastal or maritime life.

海峡の風に吹かれて育った。

Descriptive
"海峡を隔てる"

— To be separated by a significant but narrow gap; often used for relationships.

二人の心は海峡を隔てているようだ。

Literary
"海峡の番人"

— Someone who guards a strait; can refer to a lighthouse or a military presence.

彼は海峡の番人として一生を終えた。

Honorific/Literary
"海峡を渡る風"

— A message or influence that travels across borders or barriers.

海峡を渡る風のように、新しい文化が届いた。

Poetic
"海峡の夜明け"

— The beginning of a new journey after a difficult crossing.

海峡の夜明けを静かに待つ。

Literary
"海峡の底"

— The very depths of a strait; can imply hidden secrets or deep sorrow.

悲しみは海峡の底よりも深い。

Poetic

Leicht verwechselbar

海峡 vs 峡谷 (Kyoukoku)

Shares the 'kyou' kanji.

Kyoukoku is a canyon/gorge on land with a river; Kaikyou is a passage in the sea.

グランドキャニオンは巨大な峡谷です。

海峡 vs 海岸 (Kaigan)

Shares the 'kai' (sea) kanji.

Kaigan is the land-sea boundary; Kaikyou is a specific sea passage.

海岸で貝殻を拾う。

海峡 vs 海洋 (Kaiyou)

Shares the 'kai' (sea) kanji.

Kaiyou refers to the ocean as a whole/global system; Kaikyou is a specific narrow part.

海洋汚染が深刻だ。

海峡 vs 海流 (Kairyuu)

Shares the 'kai' (sea) kanji.

Kairyuu is the movement of water (current); Kaikyou is the geographical place.

この海峡は海流が速い。

海峡 vs 海原 (Unabara)

Related to the sea.

Unabara means the vast, open ocean; Kaikyou is the narrow part.

果てしない海原を行く。

Satzmuster

A1

[Place] は海峡です。

ここは海峡です。

A2

[Place] に海峡があります。

あそこに海峡があります。

B1

[Vehicle] で海峡を渡ります。

フェリーで海峡を渡ります。

B2

[Reason] のため、海峡の航行が禁止された。

嵐のため、海峡の航行が禁止された。

C1

海峡を巡る [Issue] が浮上している。

海峡を巡る領有権問題が浮上している。

C2

海峡という隘路は、[Metaphor] を象徴する。

海峡という隘路は、人生の試練を象徴する。

B1

海峡の向こうに [Object] が見える。

海峡の向こうに山が見える。

A2

海峡はとても [Adjective] です。

海峡はとても広いです。

Wortfamilie

Substantive

海峡 (Strait)
峡谷 (Canyon/Gorge)
山峡 (Mountain gorge)

Verben

渡る (To cross)
隔てる (To separate)

Adjektive

狭い (Narrow)
険しい (Treacherous)

Verwandt

海 (Sea)
湾 (Bay)
岬 (Cape)
半島 (Peninsula)
島 (Island)
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So verwendest du es

frequency

Common in geography, news, and travel; less common in daily urban life unless living near the coast.

Häufige Fehler
  • Using 'kaikyou' for a canal. → Use 'unga' (運河).

    A strait is natural; a canal is artificial. Japanese is strict about this distinction.

  • Pronouncing it as 'kaikyo'. → Pronounce it as 'kaikyou'.

    The long vowel 'u' is essential. Without it, the word changes or becomes unrecognizable.

  • Writing '狭' instead of '峡'. → Write '峡'.

    Though 'semai' (narrow) is related in meaning, the kanji for 'strait' is specifically '峡'.

  • Using 'ni' to mean crossing the strait. → Use 'o' (海峡を渡る).

    The particle 'o' is used for the space through which movement occurs.

  • Confusing 'kaikyou' with 'kaigan'. → Use 'kaikyou' for the passage and 'kaigan' for the coast.

    They share the 'sea' kanji but describe completely different geographical features.

Tipps

Think Archipelago

Always remember that Japan is made of islands. This makes 'kaikyou' a very important word for describing how people move between those islands.

Mountain Radical

The left side of 峡 is 山 (mountain). This helps you remember that a strait is a water passage flanked by high land or mountains.

The Long 'O'

Pay close attention to the long 'ou' at the end of 'kaikyou'. If you say it too short, it might sound like 'kyo' (today) or 'kyo' (giant).

Map Study

Look at a map of Japan and find the Tsugaru and Kanmon straits. Seeing them visually will help the word 'kaikyou' stick in your mind.

Enka Connection

If you enjoy music, search for 'kaikyou' in song titles. It's a great way to hear the word used with emotional weight.

Particle Precision

Use 'o' (を) for movement through the strait. This is a common pattern for many Japanese movement verbs like 'wataru' or 'tooru'.

Compound Power

Learn 'kaikyou' as part of compounds like 'kaikyou tonneru'. It's often easier to remember long, specific words than short, abstract ones.

Context Clues

If you see '海' and then a complex character with a 'mountain' radical, it's almost certainly 'kaikyou' in a geographical context.

Ferry Signs

If you travel by ferry in Japan, look for '海峡' on the route maps. It's a very practical word for travelers.

Kaikyou vs Unga

Always distinguish between natural (kaikyou) and man-made (unga). This shows a high level of vocabulary precision.

Einprägen

Eselsbrücke

Imagine a giant 'KAI'ju (monster) standing in the 'KAI' (sea) trying to squeeze through a narrow 'KYOU' (gorge).

Visuelle Assoziation

Picture two mountains (the 峡 kanji has a mountain radical) with a river of blue sea (海) flowing between them.

Word Web

Sea Strait Narrow Ship Ferry Bridge Island Current

Herausforderung

Try to name three straits in Japan and use 'kaikyou' in a sentence for each one.

Wortherkunft

The word is composed of Sinitic (Chinese-derived) characters. '海' (kai/umi) dates back to ancient Oracle Bone script representing water and a mother-like abundance. '峡' (kyou/hazama) represents a mountain (山) and a narrow passage (夾).

Ursprüngliche Bedeutung: A sea gorge or narrow water passage between mountains.

Sino-Japanese (Kango).

Kultureller Kontext

Be aware that some straits (like the Taiwan Strait) are politically sensitive topics in international conversation.

English speakers might use 'strait' or 'channel' (like the English Channel). In Japan, 'kaikyou' covers both.

Tsugaru Kaikyo Fuyugeshiki (Song by Sayuri Ishikawa) Akashi Kaikyo Bridge (Engineering marvel) The Battle of Dan-no-ura (Fought in the Shimonoseki Strait)

Im Alltag üben

Kontexte aus dem Alltag

Geography Lesson

  • 海峡の定義
  • 日本の主な海峡
  • 地図で確認する
  • 海峡の役割

Ferry Travel

  • 海峡を渡るフェリー
  • 乗船時間
  • 海峡の揺れ
  • デッキからの景色

Maritime News

  • 海峡での衝突
  • 航行の自由
  • 海峡の閉鎖
  • タンカーの通過

Music/Enka

  • 海峡の別れ
  • 冬の海峡
  • 海峡を越える想い
  • 北の海峡

Engineering

  • 海峡大橋の建設
  • 海底トンネル
  • 海峡の地質調査
  • 潮流発電

Gesprächseinstiege

"日本で一番有名な海峡はどこだと思いますか？ (Which strait do you think is the most famous in Japan?)"

"海峡をフェリーで渡ったことがありますか？ (Have you ever crossed a strait by ferry?)"

"海峡に大きな橋を架けるのは大変な仕事ですね。 (It's a big job to build a bridge over a strait, isn't it?)"

"ドーバー海峡を泳いで渡るニュースを見たことがありますか？ (Have you ever seen news about people swimming across the English Channel?)"

"海峡の近くは風が強いことが多いですが、大丈夫ですか？ (It's often windy near straits; are you okay?)"

Tagebuch-Impulse

もし海峡を自分の力で渡るとしたら、泳ぎますか、それとも船を作りますか？ (If you were to cross a strait on your own, would you swim or build a boat?)

海峡の向こう側にある未知の土地について想像して書いてください。 (Write about an unknown land on the other side of a strait.)

「海峡」という言葉から連想する感情や景色について述べてください。 (Describe the emotions and scenery you associate with the word 'kaikyou'.)

日本の有名な海峡（津軽や鳴門など）を一つ選び、その特徴を調べて書きましょう。 (Choose one famous Japanese strait and research its characteristics.)

海峡を隔てた二つの国が仲良くなるためのアイデアを書いてください。 (Write ideas for two countries separated by a strait to become friends.)

Häufig gestellte Fragen

10 Fragen

Kaikyou (海峡) is the standard word for 'strait' and is used for major passages like the Tsugaru Strait. Suidou (水道) usually refers to narrower channels between islands or is used in specific traditional names. Suidou also means 'waterworks' or 'tap water', so context is key.

No, for man-made canals, you must use 'Unga' (運河). Using 'Kaikyou' for a canal would be factually incorrect in Japanese.

For '海' (sea), think of water (氵) and a mother (毎). For '峡' (strait), think of a mountain (山) and a narrow person (夾) squeezed between landmasses.

Use 'o' (を) when crossing it (海峡を渡る) and 'ni' (に) when something is located there (海峡に島がある).

In Enka, the strait symbolizes a physical barrier that separates people, often mirroring the emotional distance or the cold, harsh reality of life in northern Japan.

Yes, as an archipelago, Japan has hundreds of straits, though only a few like Tsugaru, Kanmon, and Naruto are famous nationwide.

Generally, no. For narrow parts of a river, words like 'kyoukoku' (gorge) or 'seto' are more appropriate. 'Kaikyou' is specifically for the sea.

It is called 'Igirisu Kaikyou' (イギリス海峡) or sometimes 'Doobaa Kaikyou' (ドーバー海峡) for the narrowest part.

Yes, it spans the Akashi Strait, so it is the 'Akashi Kaikyou Oohashi'.

It is common in geography, travel, and news, but you wouldn't use it daily unless your life involves the sea or you're discussing travel plans.

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writing

Translate to Japanese: 'I cross the strait by ferry.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate to Japanese: 'This strait is very narrow.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write the kanji for 'kaikyou'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate to Japanese: 'There is a bridge over the strait.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate to Japanese: 'The waves in the strait are high today.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate to Japanese: 'The Tsugaru Strait is cold.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate to Japanese: 'A ship is passing through the strait.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate to Japanese: 'I want to see the strait.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate to Japanese: 'The strait separates the two islands.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate to Japanese: 'Crossing the strait takes time.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate to Japanese: 'The view of the strait is beautiful.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate to Japanese: 'Is that a strait?'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate to Japanese: 'The strait's current is fast.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate to Japanese: 'We live near the strait.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate to Japanese: 'The strait is important for shipping.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate to Japanese: 'He swam across the strait.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate to Japanese: 'The strait is between England and France.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate to Japanese: 'A new tunnel was built under the strait.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate to Japanese: 'The wind of the strait is strong.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate to Japanese: 'Let's look at the map of the strait.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'Tsugaru Strait' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'I cross the strait' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'The strait is narrow' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'Wait for the ferry at the strait' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'The view of the strait is beautiful' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'The wind is blowing in the strait' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'A bridge over the strait' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'The ship passed through the strait' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'The current of the strait is fast' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'I live near the strait' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'There is a tunnel under the strait' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'Which strait is this?' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'The strait is between two islands' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'I want to swim across the strait' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'The strait is deep' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'The strait is important' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'Look at the strait on the map' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'The strait separates the countries' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'The strait is famous for whirlpools' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'The waves in the strait are high' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen and transcribe: '海峡を渡るフェリーに乗ります。'

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen and transcribe: 'この海峡は潮流が速いです。'

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen and transcribe: '海峡の下にはトンネルがあります。'

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen and transcribe: '明石海峡大橋はとてもきれいです。'

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen and transcribe: '冬の海峡は波が高い。'

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen and transcribe: '海峡の名前を忘れてしまいました。'

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen and transcribe: '船が海峡を通過しています。'

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen and transcribe: '海峡を隔てて隣の島が見えます。'

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen and transcribe: 'あの海峡はとても狭いです。'

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen and transcribe: '海峡の景色を楽しみましょう。'

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen and transcribe: '海峡の風が冷たいです。'

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen and transcribe: '海峡を泳いで渡るのは不可能です。'

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen and transcribe: '海峡の地図を買いました。'

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen and transcribe: '海峡の向こうに朝日が見えます。'

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen and transcribe: '海峡の安全を守ります。'

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:

/ 190 correct

Perfect score!

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