Are you curious about how to say “monkey” in Japanese? Look no further! In this section, we will provide you with a friendly guide to learn the Japanese word for monkey. We’ll cover the translation of monkey in Japanese and how it is written in Japanese characters. By the end of this section, you’ll be able to impress your friends with your knowledge of how to say monkey in Japanese!
So, let’s get started. The Japanese word for monkey is “saru.” It’s a simple word to remember and pronounce, and it’s used throughout Japan to refer to these adorable primates. In Japanese writing, the word for monkey is written as “猿,” which is composed of two kanji characters. You may come across other variations or phrases related to monkeys in Japanese language, but “saru” is the most commonly used term.
How to Say Monkey in Japanese
If you’re interested in learning how to say “monkey” in Japanese, you’ve come to the right place. The Japanese language has several different ways to express the word “monkey,” and we’ll cover them all in this section.
How to Pronounce Monkey in Japanese
The Japanese pronunciation of monkey is “saru” (さる). The “a” sound is pronounced like the “a” in “father,” and the “u” sound is pronounced like the “oo” in “moon.”
| English | Japanese (Hiragana) | Japanese (Kanji) |
|---|---|---|
| Monkey | さる | 猿 |
Japanese Term for Monkey
Aside from the general term “saru,” which means monkey in Japanese, there are also specific words for different types of monkeys. For example, the Japanese macaque, a type of monkey commonly found in Japan, is called “nihonzaru” (にほんざる).
Monkey Word in Japanese
The word for monkey written in Japanese characters is “猿,” pronounced as “saru.” The kanji characters used to write the word for monkey depict a combination of the radical for “dog” and “mountain,” which is fitting for the agile and tree-dwelling monkeys.
Now that you know how to say monkey in Japanese, you can impress your Japanese-speaking friends with your newfound knowledge.
Monkey in Japanese Writing
Now that you know how to pronounce monkey in Japanese, it’s time to explore how it’s written in Japanese characters. The Japanese word for monkey is written as 猿 (さる) in Japanese.
The first character, 猿, means monkey in Japanese, while the second character, さる, is the hiragana reading of the kanji. Japanese often uses kanji characters alongside hiragana and katakana to represent words.
It’s interesting to note that in Japanese, certain animals have alternative names based on the situation or context in which they are mentioned. For instance, in Japanese folklore, monkeys are sometimes referred to as saru-gami, meaning “monkey god.”
It’s important to note that learning how to read and write Japanese characters is a lifelong journey. However, mastering the basics will help you understand the language better and enhance your appreciation of Japanese culture.
Fun Facts About Monkeys in Japan
Monkeys are not only fascinating creatures, but they also hold cultural significance in Japan. Here are some fun facts about monkeys in Japan:
| Fact | Monkey Expression in Japanese |
|---|---|
| In Japanese folklore, monkeys are often portrayed as mischievous and playful creatures. | サルの惑わせ (saru no madowase) |
| The Japanese macaque, also known as the snow monkey, is native to Japan and can be found in hot springs during the winter months. | ニホンザル (nihonzaru) |
| In Japanese tradition, the three wise monkeys – “see no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil” – are often depicted as monkeys. | 三猿 (san’en) |
| Monkeys have been used in paintings, carvings, and other forms of art in Japan for centuries. | サル (saru) |
These are just a few examples of the many ways that monkeys are intertwined with Japanese culture. Keep these expressions in mind the next time you encounter monkeys on your travels in Japan.
Monkeys in Japanese Folklore
Monkeys have played a significant role in Japanese folklore throughout history. One famous story is the legend of the Monkey King, Sun Wukong, who was the main character in the Chinese novel “Journey to the West”. The story was later adapted into Japanese literature and became known as “Saiyuki”. In this version, the Monkey King is named Son Goku and is one of the four main characters who embark on a journey to obtain sacred Buddhist scriptures.
The Three Wise Monkeys
Another well-known monkey reference in Japanese culture is the “Three Wise Monkeys”. This iconic image features three monkeys covering their eyes, ears, and mouth, respectively. The monkeys represent the proverbial principle of “see no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil”.
| Monkey | Japanese |
|---|---|
| See no evil | Mizaru |
| Hear no evil | Kikazaru |
| Speak no evil | Iwazaru |
The “Three Wise Monkeys” have been an enduring symbol in Japanese culture and are often found on souvenirs and merchandise throughout Japan.
Monkey Related Places to Visit in Japan
Japan is an amazing destination for monkey lovers, with several places where you can experience these fascinating creatures. Here are some recommended monkey-related places to visit during your trip to Japan:
| Place | Location | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Jigokudani Monkey Park | Nagano Prefecture | Famous for its hot spring-loving snow monkeys, who relax in the warm waters during winter. |
| Iwatayama Monkey Park | Kyoto | Home to over 100 Japanese macaques, who roam freely through the park and interact with visitors. |
| Takasakiyama Natural Zoological Garden | Kyushu | A large monkey park that is home to over 1,000 Japanese macaques. Visitors can watch monkey shows and feed the animals. |
In addition to these parks, there are also several temples and shrines in Japan that are associated with monkeys, including the famous Saruhashi Monkey Bridge in Yamanashi Prefecture.
Visiting these monkey-related destinations is a great way to experience the unique culture and natural beauty of Japan while also getting up close and personal with these fun-loving creatures.
Conclusion
Congratulations! You now know how to say “monkey” in Japanese and have learned some interesting facts about monkeys in Japan. Keep exploring the Japanese language and culture, and don’t forget to visit some of the recommended monkey-related places during your travels.
FAQ
Q: How do you say “monkey” in Japanese?
A: The word for monkey in Japanese is “saru.”
Q: How is “monkey” pronounced in Japanese?
A: “Saru” is pronounced as “sa-roo” in Japanese.
Q: Are there different terms for monkey in Japanese?
A: Yes, there are various terms used to refer to monkeys in Japanese, such as “saru,” “honzaru,” and “sarumawashi.”
Q: How is “monkey” written in Japanese characters?
A: The word “monkey” is written as 猿 in Japanese.
Q: Are there any additional phrases related to monkeys in Japanese?
A: Yes, there are other phrases and expressions related to monkeys in Japanese, such as “saru no koya” which means “monkey’s home” or “monkey’s habitat.”
Q: Are there any cultural significance or unique expressions related to monkeys in Japan?
A: Monkeys hold cultural significance in Japan and are often associated with playfulness, intelligence, and mischief. There are various expressions and idioms involving monkeys in the Japanese language.
Q: Can you recommend any places in Japan to visit and see monkeys?
A: Some popular places in Japan where you can experience monkeys up close include Jigokudani Monkey Park in Nagano, Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama in Kyoto, and Monkey Mountain in Takasaki.