帰省
Returning home; visiting one's parents' home.
帰省 en 30 secondes
- 帰省 (kisei) means returning home to family or hometown.
- Common during Japanese holidays like New Year's and Obon.
- Implies reconnecting with roots and family ties.
- Often used with する as 帰省する (kisei suru).
Understanding 帰省 (きせい - kisei)
The Japanese word 帰省 (kisei) is a noun that describes the act of returning to one's hometown or visiting one's parents' home. It carries a strong sense of familial connection and tradition, particularly during major holidays and vacation periods in Japan.
- Core Meaning
- The act of going back to one's family home, often in a different city or region.
- Cultural Significance
- 帰省 is a deeply ingrained custom in Japan. It's a time for individuals to reconnect with their roots, spend time with elderly parents and relatives, and participate in family traditions. This often involves traveling long distances, sometimes across the country.
夏休みには、多くの人が故郷へ帰省します。
The most common times for 帰省 are during the Obon festival in August and the New Year holidays. During these periods, transportation networks are extremely busy as people travel to be with their families. It's not just about visiting parents; it can also mean returning to the home where one grew up, even if parents are no longer living there, to pay respects at family graves or simply to revisit familiar surroundings.
- When to Use It
- Use 帰省 when talking about:
- Traveling back to your parents' house.
- Going to your hometown during holidays.
- Visiting family members in your original home.
- The general concept of returning home for family reasons.
The act of 帰省 is a significant part of Japanese social life, reflecting the importance placed on family ties and filial piety. It's a time of reunion, reflection, and often, a break from the hustle and bustle of urban life.
年末年始の帰省ラッシュは大変です。
- Related Concepts
- While 帰省 is specific to returning home, it's often associated with terms like 故郷 (kokyō - hometown), 実家 (jikka - parents' home), and 休暇 (kyūka - vacation). The act of 帰省 is a primary reason for taking holidays in Japan.
Constructing Sentences with 帰省 (きせい - kisei)
帰省 is a noun, but it is very frequently used with the verb する (suru), meaning 'to do', to form the compound verb 帰省する (kisei suru), which means 'to return home' or 'to visit one's parents' home'. This is the most common way you will encounter and use the word.
- Basic Structure: Noun + する
- The most fundamental way to use 帰省 is in the form 帰省する (kisei suru). This verb indicates the action of returning home.
私は来週、帰省します。
Translation: I will return home next week.
- Specifying Destination: ～へ/に帰省する
- You can specify where you are returning to using the particle へ (e) or に (ni), followed by the destination.
夏休みに実家へ帰省する予定です。
Translation: I plan to return to my parents' home during summer vacation.
- Expressing Frequency: ～を帰省する
- While less common than specifying the destination, you can sometimes use を (o) to indicate the period of time or event for which you are returning home.
お正月には毎年帰省します。
Translation: I return home every year for New Year's.
- Using 帰省 as a Noun
- Although less frequent, 帰省 can also be used as a standalone noun, often in contexts discussing the concept or planning of such trips.
今年の帰省は早めに計画しました。
Translation: I planned this year's homecoming early.
- Past Tense and Future Plans
- The verb form 帰省する can be conjugated like any other verb. For past tense, you'd use 帰省しました (kisei shimashita), and for future plans, 帰省する予定です (kisei suru yotei desu).
去年は帰省できませんでした。
Translation: I couldn't return home last year.
Real-World Usage of 帰省 (きせい - kisei)
帰省 is a word deeply embedded in the fabric of Japanese society, and you'll hear it frequently in various contexts, especially around major holidays and during discussions about family and travel.
- Holiday Travel Discussions
- During Obon (August) and New Year's (late December/early January), 帰省 becomes a ubiquitous topic. News reports will cover the 帰省 rush (帰省ラッシュ - kisei rasshu), detailing traffic jams and crowded train stations. People will talk about their plans: 'When are you going for 帰省?' or 'I'm looking forward to 帰省 this year.'
今年の年末は、実家へ帰省するつもりです。
Translation: I intend to return to my parents' home this year-end.
- Family Conversations
- In conversations with Japanese friends or colleagues, especially if they have moved away from their hometown for work or study, the topic of 帰省 will naturally come up. They might mention how long it's been since their last 帰省 or how their parents are looking forward to their visit.
親が私の帰省をとても楽しみにしています。
Translation: My parents are really looking forward to my homecoming.
- Workplace Discussions
- In Japanese workplaces, especially in the lead-up to holidays, colleagues might ask each other about their 帰省 plans. This is a common way to make small talk and understand who will be away from the office.
田中さんは、帰省でしばらくお休みされます。
Translation: Mr./Ms. Tanaka will be on leave for a while due to returning home.
- Media and Popular Culture
- You'll hear 帰省 in Japanese dramas, movies, and songs, often depicting themes of family reunions, nostalgia, or the bittersweet feeling of leaving home again after a visit.
この時期になると、帰省をテーマにした歌がたくさん流れます。
Translation: Around this time of year, many songs with the theme of returning home are played.
Avoiding Pitfalls with 帰省 (きせい - kisei)
While 帰省 is a straightforward concept, learners can sometimes misuse it or confuse it with similar words. Being aware of these common mistakes will help you use it more accurately.
- Mistake 1: Using 帰省 for General Travel
- Incorrect: 週末、友達の家へ帰省しました。 Correct: 週末、友達の家へ遊びに行きました。 Explanation: 帰省 specifically refers to returning to one's own family home or hometown. It is not used for visiting friends' houses or for general leisure travel to other cities unless it's to your family's residence there.
これは帰省ではありません。
- Mistake 2: Confusing with 帰国 (きこく - kikoku)
- Incorrect: 日本に帰省する。 Correct: 日本に帰国する。 Explanation: 帰省 (kisei) is for returning to your hometown or parents' home within Japan (or in general, your home country if you are abroad). 帰国 (kikoku) specifically means returning to one's home country, usually by a foreigner returning to their native land after being abroad.
外国人が自国に帰ることを帰国と言います。
- Mistake 3: Overusing the Noun Form
- Incorrect: 私は帰省をしました。 Correct: 私は帰省しました。 Explanation: While 帰省 is a noun, it's most commonly used as part of the verb 帰省する (kisei suru). Saying 帰省をしました is grammatically correct but sounds slightly unnatural and redundant compared to the direct verb form 帰省しました.
「帰省をしました」より「帰省しました」の方が自然です。
- Mistake 4: Forgetting the Familial Aspect
- Incorrect: 私は長期休暇で帰省しました。 Correct: 私は長期休暇で実家に帰省しました。 Explanation: While 帰省 implies returning home, it's good practice to sometimes specify 'parents' home' (実家 - jikka) or 'hometown' (故郷 - kokyō) to make the context clearer, especially if the listener might not assume it's a family visit. Simply saying you took a long vacation and returned home might be ambiguous if you have multiple homes or are returning to a place you no longer consider your primary family residence.
Distinguishing 帰省 (きせい - kisei) from Related Terms
While 帰省 is specific, several other Japanese words relate to returning or visiting. Understanding their nuances is key to precise communication.
- 帰省 (kisei) vs. 帰国 (kikoku)
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帰省 (kisei): Returning to one's hometown or parents' home. This is generally used for travel within one's own country or to the home of one's family, regardless of nationality.
帰国 (kikoku): Returning to one's home country. This term is typically used when a foreigner living abroad returns to their native country, or when a Japanese national returns to Japan after living overseas.
Example Comparison:
- A Japanese person living in the US returning to Tokyo for the holidays: 東京に帰省します。 (Tokyo ni kisei shimasu.)
- An American living in Japan returning to the US for Thanksgiving: アメリカに帰国します。 (Amerika ni kikoku shimasu.)
私は帰省しますが、友人は帰国します。
- 帰省 (kisei) vs. 帰宅 (kitaku)
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帰省 (kisei): Returning to one's family home or hometown, often implying a longer trip and a visit to relatives.
帰宅 (kitaku): Returning home, typically to one's own residence after being out. This is a more general term for coming back to your dwelling.
Example Comparison:
- 仕事の後、帰宅します。 (Shigoto no ato, kitaku shimasu.) - After work, I will return home (to my own place).
- お盆には実家に帰省します。 (Obon ni wa jikka ni kisei shimasu.) - I will return to my parents' home for Obon.
遅くなったので、早く帰宅します。
- 帰省 (kisei) vs. 戻る (modoru)
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帰省 (kisei): A specific noun/verb for returning to family home/hometown.
戻る (modoru): To return, to go back. This is a general verb that can be used in many situations, including returning to a place, returning an item, or returning to a previous state. It's less specific than 帰省.
Example Comparison:
- 旅行から戻る。 (Ryokō kara modoru.) - To return from a trip.
- 故郷に帰省する。 (Kokyō ni kisei suru.) - To return to one's hometown.
この本は図書館に戻る必要があります。
- 実家 (jikka) vs. 故郷 (kokyō)
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実家 (jikka): Parents' home. This refers to the physical house where one's parents live, and is often the destination of 帰省.
故郷 (kokyō): Hometown. This is a broader term that refers to the place where one grew up or has strong ties to, not necessarily just the parents' current residence. One might 帰省 to their 故郷, which often includes visiting their 実家.
Example Usage:
- 帰省の際には、まず実家に寄ります。( Kisei no sai ni wa, mazu jikka ni yorimasu.) - When returning home, I first stop by my parents' house.
- 故郷は自然が豊かです。( Kokyō wa shizen ga yutaka desu.) - My hometown is rich in nature.
How Formal Is It?
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Le savais-tu ?
The character 省 (sei) can also mean 'province' or 'to save', but in the context of 帰省, its meaning is specifically 'to visit' or 'to inspect', reflecting the traditional duty of visiting one's parents.
Guide de prononciation
- Pronouncing 'ki' too long.
- Not stressing the 'sei' syllable sufficiently.
- Confusing it with similar-sounding English words.
- Adding an extra vowel sound after 'sei'.
- Pronouncing the 's' sound as 'z'.
Niveau de difficulté
The word itself is straightforward, but understanding the cultural context and nuances when reading often requires B1-level comprehension. Texts discussing holiday travel or family traditions will frequently feature this word.
Using it correctly in writing is relatively easy once the core meaning and common verb form (帰省する) are understood. More advanced use might involve nuanced discussions of cultural practices or personal experiences.
Pronunciation is not difficult. Understanding when to use it (e.g., distinguishing from 帰宅 or 帰国) is key for natural conversation. It's a common topic during holiday seasons.
It's frequently heard during holiday periods and in conversations about family. Recognizing the context will help learners identify its meaning easily.
Quoi apprendre ensuite
Prérequis
Apprends ensuite
Avancé
Grammaire à connaître
Using する verbs (サ変動詞)
帰省する (kisei suru) is a common example. Other する verbs include 勉強する (benkyō suru - to study) and 料理する (ryōri suru - to cook).
Particles へ (e) and に (ni) for direction
実家へ帰省する (jikka e kisei suru) or 実家に帰省する (jikka ni kisei suru) both indicate the destination of returning home.
Past tense conjugation of verbs
帰省しました (kisei shimashita) - I returned home. This follows the standard polite past tense conjugation of する verbs.
Expressing intentions with 〜予定です (yotei desu)
来月帰省する予定です (Raigetsu kisei suru yotei desu) - I plan to return home next month.
Using nouns with particles (e.g., 帰省の準備 - kisei no junbi)
The particle の connects the noun 帰省 to the noun 準備, indicating possession or association.
Exemples par niveau
家にかえる。
I return home.
お父さんとお母さんに会いにいく。
I go to see my father and mother.
ふるさとにいく。
I go to my hometown.
お正月は家族とすごす。
I spend New Year's with my family.
電車でふるさとにいく。
I go to my hometown by train.
母が待っている。
My mother is waiting.
夏休みに帰る。
I return during summer vacation.
田舎は静かです。
The countryside is quiet.
夏休みに、私は田舎の祖父母の家へ帰省します。
During summer vacation, I will return to my grandparents' home in the countryside.
Uses 帰省します (kisei shimasu) for returning home.
年末年始は、家族と過ごすために故郷へ帰省する人が多いです。
Many people return to their hometowns to spend time with family during the New Year holidays.
Describes a common practice of 帰省.
父は仕事で海外にいるので、母だけが実家で待っています。
My father is abroad for work, so only my mother is waiting at our parents' home.
Mentions 実家 (jikka - parents' home) as the destination.
子供の頃、毎年夏に祖母の家へ帰省するのが楽しみでした。
When I was a child, I used to look forward to returning to my grandmother's house every summer.
Uses the past tense of 帰省.
帰省の準備で、荷造りをしています。
I am packing my luggage in preparation for returning home.
Uses 帰省 as a noun in the phrase 帰省の準備 (kisei no junbi - preparation for returning home).
新幹線に乗って、故郷へ帰省します。
I will take the Shinkansen to return to my hometown.
Specifies transportation for 帰省.
久しぶりに両親に会えるのが嬉しいです。
I am happy to be able to see my parents after a long time.
Focuses on the emotional aspect of 帰省.
今年のゴールデンウィークは、帰省しないで東京で過ごします。
This Golden Week, I will spend it in Tokyo instead of returning home.
Describes a situation where 帰省 is *not* happening.
長年住んでいた街を離れ、都市部で就職したため、両親との距離ができ、年に一度の帰省が唯一の親孝行の機会となっています。
Having left the town where I lived for many years and found employment in the city, a distance has grown between my parents and me, making my annual homecoming the only opportunity for filial piety.
Uses 帰省 as a noun, discussing its significance in filial piety (親孝行 - oyakōkō).
故郷への帰省は、単なる物理的な移動ではなく、自身のルーツや家族との絆を再確認する精神的な旅でもあります。
Returning to one's hometown is not merely a physical move, but also a spiritual journey to reaffirm one's roots and bonds with family.
Explores the deeper meaning of 帰省.
帰省ラッシュの時期は、航空券や新幹線のチケットの予約が非常に困難になります。
During the homecoming rush period, booking flight tickets and Shinkansen tickets becomes extremely difficult.
Highlights practical challenges associated with 帰省.
最近では、オンラインでの帰省や、VR技術を活用した仮想的な帰省も話題になっています。
Recently, online homecomings and virtual homecomings utilizing VR technology have also become a topic of discussion.
Discusses modern adaptations of 帰省.
祖母が病気になったため、予定を変更して急遽帰省することにした。
My grandmother became ill, so I changed my plans and decided to return home urgently.
Shows an urgent reason for 帰省.
都会の喧騒から離れ、田舎の静けさの中で過ごす帰省は、私にとって最高の休息です。
Returning home to spend time in the quiet of the countryside, away from the hustle and bustle of the city, is the best rest for me.
Emphasizes the restorative aspect of 帰省.
子供の頃の思い出が詰まった実家への帰省は、いつも懐かしさに満ちています。
Returning to my parents' home, filled with childhood memories, is always full of nostalgia.
Connects 帰省 with memories and nostalgia.
親元を離れて暮らす若者にとって、帰省は成長した姿を見せる機会でもあります。
For young people living away from their parents, returning home is also an opportunity to show how much they have grown.
Discusses the social aspect of 帰省 for young adults.
現代社会における帰省の意義は、単に家族との再会に留まらず、自己のアイデンティティ形成や地域社会との繋がりを再構築する上で、ますます重要性を増していると言えるでしょう。
The significance of returning home in modern society can be said to be increasingly important, not just for reuniting with family, but also for the formation of self-identity and the rebuilding of connections with the local community.
Discusses the evolving significance of 帰省 in contemporary society.
都市部への人口集中が進む一方で、地方の過疎化も深刻化しており、帰省を通じて都市住民が地方の現状を再認識する機会が求められています。
While the concentration of population in urban areas is progressing, depopulation in rural areas is also becoming serious, and opportunities for urban residents to re-recognize the current situation in rural areas through homecoming are being sought.
Links 帰省 to broader societal issues like urbanization and depopulation.
SNSの普及により、帰省先での出来事をリアルタイムで共有することが可能になったが、それがかえって家族間のコミュニケーションを希薄にするという指摘もある。
With the spread of SNS, it has become possible to share events at one's hometown in real-time, but there are also suggestions that this can, conversely, dilute communication between family members.
Examines the impact of technology on the experience of 帰省.
多忙な現代人にとって、年に数回の帰省は、精神的なリセットを図り、日々のストレスから解放されるための貴重な機会となっている。
For busy modern people, returning home a few times a year has become a precious opportunity to achieve mental reset and be freed from daily stress.
Highlights the therapeutic value of 帰省 for busy individuals.
帰省先での親戚付き合いは、時に面倒に感じることもあるが、それは古き良き日本の人間関係のあり方を体現しているとも言える。
Interactions with relatives during homecoming can sometimes feel burdensome, but it can also be said that they embody the way of good old Japanese human relationships.
Addresses the complexities of family relationships during 帰省.
コロナ禍を経て、帰省に対する価値観が変化し、感染リスクを考慮した上で、より慎重な判断が求められるようになった。
Through the COVID-19 pandemic, values regarding returning home have changed, and after considering the risk of infection, more cautious judgments have come to be required.
Discusses the impact of recent global events on the practice of 帰省.
子供の成長とともに、帰省の目的も変化し、単に親に会うだけでなく、子供に祖父母との触れ合いの機会を提供することが重要になってくる。
As children grow, the purpose of returning home also changes, and it becomes important not just to see parents, but also to provide children with opportunities to interact with grandparents.
Explores the evolving purpose of 帰省 as a family grows.
地方創生という観点から、帰省客の消費行動が地域経済に与える影響を分析し、その活性化策を検討することが急務となっている。
From the perspective of regional revitalization, it is urgent to analyze the impact of the consumption behavior of returning visitors on the local economy and to consider measures for its activation.
Connects 帰省 to economic implications for rural communities.
グローバル化の進展により、日本国内での帰省に加え、国際的な帰省、すなわち海外在住の日本人が母国へ一時的に戻るケースも増加傾向にあり、その社会経済的影響は多岐にわたる。
Due to the advancement of globalization, in addition to domestic homecomings within Japan, cases of international homecoming, that is, Japanese residents living abroad temporarily returning to their home country, are also on the rise, and their socioeconomic impacts are diverse.
Expands the concept of 帰省 to include international contexts and discusses its broad impact.
帰省という慣習は、個人のライフステージや価値観の変化に伴い、その形態や目的を多様化させている。親元を離れて独立した個人が、家族との関係性を維持・発展させるための、より能動的かつ戦略的なコミュニケーションの場へと変容しつつある。
The custom of homecoming is diversifying its forms and purposes in line with changes in an individual's life stage and values. It is transforming into a more active and strategic space for communication, enabling independent individuals living away from their parents to maintain and develop family relationships.
Analyzes the evolution of 帰省 as a practice, emphasizing active communication and relationship maintenance.
地方創生政策における「関係人口」の概念は、帰省を契機とした地方との新たな関係構築を促進するものであり、都市住民が一時的に地方に滞在し、地域活動に参加する動きは、帰省の概念を拡張する可能性を秘めている。
The concept of 'related population' in regional revitalization policies promotes the construction of new relationships with rural areas triggered by homecoming, and the movement of urban residents temporarily staying in rural areas and participating in local activities holds the potential to expand the concept of homecoming.
Connects 帰省 with the policy concept of 'related population' and regional revitalization.
帰省時の親族間の贈答習慣は、単なる物質的な交換に留まらず、世代間の価値観や社会規範の伝達、あるいは相互扶助の精神を具現化する複雑な社会的儀礼としての側面を有している。
The custom of gift-giving among relatives during homecoming is not limited to mere material exchange, but also has aspects of a complex social ritual that embodies the transmission of intergenerational values and social norms, or the spirit of mutual aid.
Examines the anthropological and sociological dimensions of gift-giving during 帰省.
帰省がもたらす心理的効果は、幼少期の記憶の追体験による安心感や自己肯定感の向上に寄与する一方で、親との関係性の変化や、期待に応えなければならないというプレッシャーから、複雑な感情を抱かせる場合もある。
The psychological effects brought about by returning home can contribute to a sense of security and improved self-esteem through re-experiencing childhood memories, while on the other hand, changes in relationships with parents and the pressure to meet expectations can also lead to complex emotions.
Delves into the nuanced psychological impacts of 帰省.
現代のライフスタイルにおいては、遠隔地への帰省が困難な場合も多く、リモートワークの普及は、時間的・地理的な制約を緩和し、帰省の頻度や形態に新たな選択肢をもたらしている。
In modern lifestyles, returning home to distant locations is often difficult, and the spread of remote work is mitigating temporal and geographical constraints, bringing new options for the frequency and form of homecoming.
Discusses how remote work is reshaping the practice of 帰省.
帰省先で直面する地域社会の課題、例えば高齢化や後継者不足などは、都市住民が自身のルーツを再考し、地域への関与を深めるきっかけとなりうる。
Issues in the local community encountered during homecoming, such as aging populations and a shortage of successors, can serve as an impetus for urban residents to reconsider their roots and deepen their involvement with the region.
Highlights how 帰省 can foster awareness of and engagement with local issues.
帰省という行為は、個人のアイデンティティの源泉を探求し、自己の存在意義を確認するための、文化的・社会的な儀式としての側面を依然として色濃く保持している。
The act of returning home still strongly retains its aspect as a cultural and social ritual for exploring the source of an individual's identity and confirming the meaning of one's existence.
Emphasizes the enduring ritualistic and identity-affirming nature of 帰省.
グローバル化と情報化社会の進展は、帰省という伝統的慣習の概念的枠組みを拡張し、物理的な移動を伴わない仮想的帰省や、関係人口の創出といった新たな実践形態を生み出している。
The progression of globalization and the information society has expanded the conceptual framework of the traditional custom of homecoming, giving rise to new forms of practice such as virtual homecoming that does not involve physical movement, and the creation of related populations.
Analyzes the radical transformation of the concept of 帰省 in the context of globalization and digital advancements.
帰省における親族間の相互作用は、単なる感情的な絆の確認に留まらず、世代間での社会文化的コードの伝達、あるいは家父長制的な権力構造の再生産といった、より複雑な社会力学を内包している。
Interactions among relatives during homecoming are not limited to the confirmation of emotional bonds but also encompass more complex social dynamics such as the transmission of socio-cultural codes between generations, or the reproduction of patriarchal power structures.
Critically examines the intricate social and power dynamics inherent in family interactions during 帰省.
地方創生が喫緊の課題となる中で、帰省客の消費行動や地域への関与度を定量的に分析し、持続可能な地域社会の構築に資する政策立案へと繋げていくことが、学術的にも政策的にも喫緊の要請となっている。
As regional revitalization becomes an urgent issue, it is an academic and policy imperative to quantitatively analyze the consumption behavior and degree of engagement with the region of returning visitors, and to link this to policy formulation that contributes to the construction of sustainable local communities.
Focuses on the empirical and policy-oriented aspects of 帰省, linking it to regional development strategies.
帰省という慣習が内包する「郷愁」や「原風景」への回帰願望は、現代社会における個人のアイデンティティの不安定化や疎外感といった問題に対する、文化的な応答メカニズムとして機能している。
The desire to return to 'nostalgia' and 'original scenery' inherent in the custom of homecoming functions as a cultural response mechanism to issues such as the destabilization of individual identity and feelings of alienation in modern society.
Explores the psychological and philosophical underpinnings of 帰省 as a response to modern societal anxieties.
コロナ禍以降、帰省のあり方は、感染リスク管理という新たな次元を獲得し、移動の自由と公衆衛生の維持という相反する要請の間で、社会全体としてその最適解を模索し続けている。
Since the COVID-19 pandemic, the nature of homecoming has acquired a new dimension of infection risk management, and society as a whole continues to seek optimal solutions between the conflicting demands of freedom of movement and the maintenance of public health.
Analyzes the complex ethical and practical challenges arising from the intersection of 帰省 and public health concerns.
帰省先での家族間のコミュニケーションにおける非言語的要素の重要性は、言語的表象では捉えきれない感情や関係性の機微を理解する上で不可欠であり、文化人類学的な分析対象としても注目されている。
The importance of non-verbal elements in communication between family members during homecoming is indispensable for understanding the nuances of emotions and relationships that cannot be captured by linguistic representation, and it is also attracting attention as an object of anthropological analysis.
Focuses on the semiotic and anthropological significance of non-verbal communication during 帰省.
帰省を契機とした地方への移住や二拠点生活への関心の高まりは、従来の「帰る場所」としての帰省の概念を超え、地域社会との持続的な関係性を構築する新たなライフスタイルの萌芽を示唆している。
The increasing interest in relocating to rural areas or adopting a dual-residence lifestyle, triggered by homecoming, suggests the emergence of new lifestyles that build sustainable relationships with local communities, going beyond the traditional concept of homecoming as merely a 'place to return to'.
Explores how 帰省 can act as a catalyst for new forms of settlement and community engagement.
帰省という文化的実践は、個人のアイデンティティ形成における「場所」と「帰属」の概念を深く反映しており、その変容過程を追うことは、現代社会における人間関係やコミュニティのあり方を考察する上で示唆に富む。
The cultural practice of homecoming deeply reflects the concepts of 'place' and 'belonging' in the formation of individual identity, and tracing its transformation process is rich in implications for considering the nature of human relationships and communities in modern society.
Philosophically examines 帰省 as a cultural practice intertwined with fundamental human needs for place and belonging.
Collocations courantes
Phrases Courantes
帰省します (きせいします - kisei shimasu)
帰省する予定です (きせいする よてい です - kisei suru yotei desu)
帰省できませんでした (きせいできませんでした - kisei dekimasen deshita)
帰省の準備 (きせい の じゅんび - kisei no junbi)
実家へ帰省 (じっかへ きせい - jikka e kisei)
故郷へ帰省 (こきょうへ きせい - kokyō e kisei)
長期帰省 (ちょうき きせい - chōki kisei)
帰省ラッシュ (きせい ラッシュ - kisei rasshu)
帰省先 (きせいさき - kiseisaki)
親の元へ帰省 (おや の もと へ きせい - oya no moto e kisei)
Souvent confondu avec
帰宅 means returning to one's own residence after being out. 帰省 is specifically returning to a family home or hometown, often implying a longer trip and a visit to relatives.
帰国 means returning to one's home country. 帰省 is generally used for returning home within one's country, or to one's family home regardless of nationality.
旅行 is general travel for leisure or business. 帰省 is a specific type of travel with the purpose of visiting family or one's hometown.
Expressions idiomatiques
"親孝行の帰省 (おやこうこう の きせい - oyakōkō no kisei)"
A homecoming undertaken with the primary intention of showing filial piety and caring for one's parents.
両親が高齢になったため、今年は親孝行の帰省を計画しています。 Ryōshin ga kōrei ni natta tame, kotoshi wa oyakōkō no kisei o keikaku shite imasu. Since my parents have become elderly, I am planning a homecoming this year with the primary intention of showing filial piety.
Neutral"一年の計は元旦にあり、帰省は年末にあり (いちねん の けい は がんたん に あり、きせい は ねんまつ に あり - ichinen no kei wa gantan ni ari, kisei wa nenmatsu ni ari)"
A proverb suggesting that the year's plans are made on New Year's Day, and the year's homecoming is done at the end of the year. It highlights the importance of these times.
「一年の計は元旦にあり、帰省は年末にあり」という言葉通り、年末には必ず実家に帰ります。 'Ichinen no kei wa gantan ni ari, kisei wa nenmatsu ni ari' to iu kotoba dōri, nenmatsu ni wa kanarazu jikka ni kaerimasu. As the saying goes, 'The year's plans are made on New Year's Day, and the year's homecoming is done at the end of the year,' so I always return to my parents' home at the end of the year.
Proverbial"里帰り出産 (さとがえり しゅっさん - satogaeri shussan)"
Giving birth in one's hometown or parents' home. While not directly about 'returning home' in the sense of visiting, it involves returning to a familiar family environment for a significant life event.
長女は、里帰り出産で無事に生まれました。 Chōjo wa, satogaeri shussan de buji ni umaremashita. My eldest daughter was safely born through a hometown delivery.
Neutral"帰省先での再会 (きせいさき で の さいかい - kiseisaki de no saikai)"
Reunion at the homecoming destination.
帰省先での旧友との再会は、昔話に花を咲かせた。 Kiseisaki de no kyūyū to no saikai wa, mukashi banashi ni hana o sakaseta. The reunion with old friends at my hometown brought back many old memories.
Neutral"帰省の挨拶 (きせい の あいさつ - kisei no aisatsu)"
Greetings exchanged upon returning home.
帰省の挨拶もそこそこに、すぐに親を手伝い始めた。 Kisei no aisatsu mo soko soko ni, sugu ni oya o tetsudai hajimeta. Without much delay in greeting my parents upon returning home, I immediately started helping them.
Neutral"帰省の土産 (きせい の みやげ - kisei no miyage)"
Souvenirs brought back from one's hometown or brought along for family.
帰省の土産に、地元の銘菓を買ってきた。 Kisei no miyage ni, jimoto no meika o katte kita. I bought local specialty sweets as souvenirs for my homecoming.
Neutral"帰省の途中で (きせい の とちゅう で - kisei no tochū de)"
On the way during homecoming.
帰省の途中で、昔の友人にばったり会った。 Kisei no tochū de, mukashi no yūjin ni battari atta. On the way home for the holidays, I unexpectedly ran into an old friend.
Neutral"帰省が叶う (きせい が かなう - kisei ga kanau)"
To be able to return home (often implies overcoming obstacles).
長年の願いが叶い、今年はついに帰省が叶った。 Naganen no negai ga kanai, kotoshi wa tsuini kisei ga kanatta. My long-held wish came true, and this year I was finally able to return home.
Neutral"帰省の理由 (きせい の りゆう - kisei no riyū)"
The reason for returning home.
帰省の理由を聞かれ、少し言葉に詰まった。 Kisei no riyū o kikare, sukoshi kotoba ni tsumatta. When asked the reason for my homecoming, I hesitated for a moment.
Neutral"帰省しきれない (きせい しきれない - kisei shikirenai)"
Unable to return home completely or as much as one wants.
仕事が忙しすぎて、年に数回しか帰省しきれない。 Shigoto ga isogashisugite, nen ni sūkai shika kisei shikirenai. I'm too busy with work, so I can only return home a few times a year.
NeutralFacile à confondre
Both involve 'returning home'.
帰宅 is returning to your own residence after being out (e.g., from work or school). 帰省 is returning to your parents' home or hometown, often for a holiday or extended visit. Think of 帰宅 as 'coming back to your apartment' and 帰省 as 'going back to Mom and Dad's house'.
仕事が終わったので、早く帰宅したい。 Shigoto ga owatta node, hayaku kitaku shitai. Work is finished, so I want to return home quickly (to my own place). 夏休みは、実家に帰省します。 Natsuyasumi wa, jikka ni kisei shimasu. During summer vacation, I will return to my parents' home.
Both involve 'returning'.
帰国 specifically means returning to one's home country. It's typically used by foreigners returning to their native land or Japanese nationals returning from abroad. 帰省 is returning to one's family home or hometown, usually within the same country, or to the family home even if you are a foreigner.
私はアメリカに帰国する予定です。 Watashi wa Amerika ni kikoku suru yotei desu. I plan to return to America (my home country). 私は日本に帰省します。 Watashi wa Nihon ni kisei shimasu. I will return home to Japan (my family home, even if I am not Japanese).
Very similar meaning, often interchangeable.
里帰り is very close in meaning to 帰省, often meaning 'returning to one's parents' home' or 'hometown'. It's sometimes used more specifically for women returning to their maternal home, especially for childbirth (里帰り出産 - satogaeri shussan). While 帰省 is a general term for returning home, 里帰り can sometimes carry a slightly more traditional or personal nuance.
結婚後、初めて実家に里帰りしました。 Kekkon go, hajimete jikka ni satogaeri shimashita. After getting married, I returned to my parents' home for the first time. 夏休みに故郷へ帰省します。 Natsuyasumi ni kokyō e kisei shimasu. I will return to my hometown for summer vacation.
General verb for 'to return'.
戻る is a general verb meaning 'to return' or 'to go back' to any place. It can be used for returning home (帰宅), returning to a previous state, or returning an item. 帰省 is a specific noun/verb for returning to one's family home or hometown, carrying strong cultural connotations of family ties and tradition.
旅行から戻る。 Ryokō kara modoru. To return from a trip. 故郷に帰省する。 Kokyō ni kisei suru. To return to one's hometown.
Often the destination of 帰省.
実家 is a noun meaning 'parents' home' or 'one's family home'. It is the *place* one returns to. 帰省 is the *act* of returning to that place. You don't say 'I do parents' home'; you say 'I return to parents' home' (実家に帰省する - jikka ni kisei suru).
実家は田舎にあります。 Jikka wa inaka ni arimasu. My parents' home is in the countryside. お盆に実家へ帰省します。 Obon ni jikka e kisei shimasu. I will return to my parents' home for Obon.
Structures de phrases
Noun + は/が + 帰省します。
私は夏休みに帰省します。 Watashi wa natsuyasumi ni kisei shimasu.
Noun + へ/に + 帰省します。
実家へ帰省します。 Jikka e kisei shimasu.
Noun + は + 帰省 + します。
年末年始は帰省します。 Nenmatsu nenshi wa kisei shimasu.
Noun + を + 帰省する + noun (time/event).
お盆に帰省する。 Obon ni kisei suru.
Noun + を + 帰省 + する + 予定です。
来週、帰省する予定です。 Raishū, kisei suru yotei desu.
Noun + が + 帰省 + できませんでした。
仕事が忙しくて、帰省できませんでした。 Shigoto ga isogashikute, kisei dekimasen deshita.
Noun (reason) + ために + 帰省します。
親に会うために帰省します。 Oya ni au tame ni kisei shimasu.
Noun + の + 帰省 + は + Noun + です。
今年の帰省は、例年より早いです。 Kotoshi no kisei wa, reinen yori hayai desu.
Famille de mots
Noms
Verbes
Apparenté
Comment l'utiliser
High, especially during holiday seasons.
-
Using 帰省 for general travel or visiting friends.
→
Using 帰省 for returning to family home/hometown; using 旅行 (ryokō) for general travel or 遊びに行く (asobi ni iku - to go visit) for friends.
帰省 specifically implies returning to one's roots and family. General travel or visiting friends requires different vocabulary.
-
Confusing 帰省 with 帰国.
→
帰省 for returning home/hometown; 帰国 (kikoku) for returning to one's home country.
帰国 is used when a foreigner returns to their native country or a Japanese national returns from abroad. 帰省 is more general for returning to family.
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Saying 帰省をしました (kisei o shimashita) instead of 帰省しました (kisei shimashita).
→
帰省しました (kisei shimashita).
While grammatically possible, 帰省をしました sounds redundant. 帰省する is a する verb and is used directly, like 勉強しました (benkyō shimashita).
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Using 帰省 for returning to one's own current residence.
→
Using 帰宅 (kitaku) for returning to one's own residence after being out.
帰省 is about returning to a family home or hometown, often implying a longer visit. 帰宅 is simply coming back home after being away for a short period.
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Overlooking the cultural significance.
→
Understanding that 帰省 is tied to family values, holidays, and tradition in Japan.
Simply translating 'return home' might miss the cultural weight and specific context that 帰省 carries in Japanese society.
Astuces
Distinguish from 帰宅 and 帰国
Remember that 帰省 is for returning to your family home or hometown. 帰宅 (kitaku) is for returning to your own residence after being out, and 帰国 (kikoku) is for returning to your home country. Using the correct term ensures clarity.
Prioritize the Verb Form
While 帰省 is a noun, it's most frequently used as part of the verb 帰省する (kisei suru - to return home). Sentences like '私は帰省します' (Watashi wa kisei shimasu) are more natural than '私は帰省をしました' (Watashi wa kisei o shimashita).
Understand the Holiday Context
帰省 is deeply linked to major Japanese holidays like New Year's and Obon. Recognizing this context will help you understand when and why the word is used so frequently during those times.
Pair with Related Nouns
Often, 帰省 is used in conjunction with nouns like 実家 (jikka - parents' home) or 故郷 (kokyō - hometown). For example, '実家へ帰省する' (jikka e kisei suru - to return to parents' home) or '故郷へ帰省する' (kokyō e kisei suru - to return to hometown).
Stress the Second Syllable
The stress in 帰省 (kisei) falls on the second syllable: ki-SEI. Practice saying it clearly and naturally.
Connect with Family Affection
Use a mnemonic like imagining 'kissing' (ki-sei) your parents goodbye upon returning home to remember the word and its familial connotation.
Consider the Nuance of 里帰り
While similar, 里帰り (satogaeri) can sometimes imply a woman returning to her maternal home, especially for childbirth. 帰省 is a more general term for returning home.
Particles for Destination
When specifying where you are returning, use particles like へ (e) or に (ni) after the destination noun, e.g., '実家へ帰省する' (jikka e kisei suru).
Recognize the 'Rush'
Be aware of the term 帰省ラッシュ (kisei rasshu - homecoming rush), which describes the heavy travel during holidays. This indicates the widespread importance of 帰省.
Write About Your Own Experiences
Try writing a short paragraph about your ideal homecoming or a past experience, using 帰省 and related words. This reinforces your understanding and usage.
Mémorise-le
Moyen mnémotechnique
Imagine a person 'kissing' (ki-sei) their parents goodbye when they leave their hometown after a visit. The act of 'kissing' symbolizes the affection and the reason for the return.
Association visuelle
Picture a train or a car driving towards a traditional Japanese house with lanterns lit, symbolizing a warm homecoming during a festival.
Word Web
Défi
Try to write a short paragraph about your own ideal homecoming, using the word 帰省 and other related vocabulary.
Origine du mot
The word 帰省 is a compound word formed from two kanji: 帰 (ki) and 省 (sei). The character 帰 means 'to return' or 'to go back', and 省 means 'to visit' or 'to reflect'. Together, they literally mean 'to return and visit'.
Sens originel : The literal meaning is 'return and visit', specifically implying visiting one's parents or hometown.
Sino-Japanese (derived from Chinese characters)Contexte culturel
When discussing 帰省, be mindful that for some individuals, their relationship with their family or hometown might be complex or even negative. While the word itself is neutral, the experience can vary greatly. It's generally safe to assume positive connotations unless otherwise indicated.
In English-speaking cultures, the concept of 'going home' for holidays exists, but it often lacks the same depth of cultural obligation and tradition as Japanese 帰省. While visiting family is important, it's generally more of a personal choice rather than a deeply ingrained societal expectation tied to specific festivals and ancestral reverence.
Pratique dans la vie réelle
Contextes réels
Holiday travel plans
- 夏休みに帰省します。
- 年末年始は故郷へ帰省する予定です。
- 帰省の準備をしています。
Discussing family
- 親元へ帰省する。
- 久しぶりに実家へ帰省した。
- 親が帰省を喜んでくれた。
Workplace conversations
- 帰省のため、しばらくお休みをいただきます。
- 田中さんは今週帰省中です。
- 帰省ラッシュを避けるために早めに移動します。
Nostalgic recollections
- 子供の頃の帰省は楽しかった。
- 帰省すると、いつも懐かしい気持ちになる。
- 帰省先での思い出を語る。
Societal trends
- 帰省の意義は変化している。
- 地方への帰省客が増加している。
- 帰省が地域経済を活性化させる。
Amorces de conversation
"今年の夏休みは、どこかに帰省する予定はありますか？"
"帰省するなら、どんなお土産を買っていきたいですか？"
"帰省する時、一番楽しみにしていることは何ですか？"
"都会から故郷へ帰省する際に、一番大変なことは何だと思いますか？"
"もし日本で帰省するとしたら、どの時期が一番良いと思いますか？"
Sujets d'écriture
My ideal homecoming would involve...
Describe a memorable experience you had during a homecoming trip.
How do you think the concept of 'returning home' is similar or different in your culture compared to Japan?
If you could choose any time to return to your hometown, when would it be and why?
What are the most important things to pack or prepare for a homecoming trip?
Questions fréquentes
10 questionsThe most common and natural way to say 'return home' or 'visit one's parents' home' is by using the verb form 帰省する (kisei suru). As a noun, 帰省 is often used in combination with する (suru) or in phrases like 帰省の準備 (kisei no junbi - preparations for returning home).
The most significant periods for 帰省 are the New Year holidays (年末年始 - nenmatsu nenshi) and the Obon festival (お盆 - Obon) in August. These are times when many people travel back to their hometowns or parents' homes to be with family.
While visiting parents' homes is a primary aspect, 帰省 can also refer to returning to one's hometown in general, even if parents are no longer living there, or if one is returning to the house they grew up in. The core idea is returning to one's roots and family connections.
Yes, a foreigner living in Japan can use 帰省 to refer to returning to their parents' home in their home country. However, if they are returning to their home country after living abroad, the term 帰国 (kikoku) is more specific and often preferred. If a foreigner is visiting their Japanese parents' home in Japan, 帰省 is appropriate.
帰宅 (kitaku) means returning to one's own residence after being out (like coming home from work). 帰省 (kisei) is specifically about returning to one's family home or hometown, usually for a longer period and with a focus on family reunion and tradition.
While 帰省 is broadly used for returning home/hometown, the phrase 故郷に帰る (kokyō ni kaeru - to return to one's hometown) is also very common and specific. 帰省 often implies returning to parents' homes, while 故郷に帰る emphasizes the place where one grew up.
帰省ラッシュ (kisei rasshu) refers to the 'homecoming rush' – the period of extremely heavy travel and traffic congestion that occurs when large numbers of people travel back to their hometowns during major holidays like New Year's and Obon.
Generally, 帰省 is strongly associated with family ties and one's original home. If you are returning to a place where you used to live but have no family connection there anymore, you would more likely use terms like 戻る (modoru - to return) or 訪れる (otozureru - to visit).
帰省 itself is a neutral term. The verb form 帰省する (kisei suru) is also neutral and commonly used in everyday conversation. More humble or formal variations exist, but the core word is widely applicable.
Common phrases include 帰省します (kisei shimasu - I will return home), 帰省する予定です (kisei suru yotei desu - I plan to return home), 帰省の準備 (kisei no junbi - preparations for returning home), and 実家へ帰省 (jikka e kisei - returning to parents' home).
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Summary
帰省 (kisei) signifies returning to one's family home or hometown, a culturally significant act in Japan, especially during holidays, emphasizing familial bonds and a connection to one's origins. It is most commonly expressed as 帰省する (kisei suru).
- 帰省 (kisei) means returning home to family or hometown.
- Common during Japanese holidays like New Year's and Obon.
- Implies reconnecting with roots and family ties.
- Often used with する as 帰省する (kisei suru).
Distinguish from 帰宅 and 帰国
Remember that 帰省 is for returning to your family home or hometown. 帰宅 (kitaku) is for returning to your own residence after being out, and 帰国 (kikoku) is for returning to your home country. Using the correct term ensures clarity.
Prioritize the Verb Form
While 帰省 is a noun, it's most frequently used as part of the verb 帰省する (kisei suru - to return home). Sentences like '私は帰省します' (Watashi wa kisei shimasu) are more natural than '私は帰省をしました' (Watashi wa kisei o shimashita).
Understand the Holiday Context
帰省 is deeply linked to major Japanese holidays like New Year's and Obon. Recognizing this context will help you understand when and why the word is used so frequently during those times.
Pair with Related Nouns
Often, 帰省 is used in conjunction with nouns like 実家 (jikka - parents' home) or 故郷 (kokyō - hometown). For example, '実家へ帰省する' (jikka e kisei suru - to return to parents' home) or '故郷へ帰省する' (kokyō e kisei suru - to return to hometown).
Exemple
お盆には実家に帰省する予定だ。
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