Translation guide
The country China is most commonly referred to as 中国 (Chūgoku) in Japanese. This guide covers how to say 'China' in various contexts, including formal, historical, and culinary uses.
中国
China (country)
Referring to the modern nation of China in general conversation.
The standard, neutral word for China. Used in almost all contexts.
中国に行ったことがありますか。
Have you ever been to China?
中国の人口は多いです。
China's population is large.
The official full name: People's Republic of China. Used in formal, political, or news contexts.
中華人民共和国は1949年に成立しました。
The People's Republic of China was established in 1949.
Referring to China in a historical, traditional, or cultural sense, often distinct from the modern nation-state.
Still the most common word, but context makes it clear you mean historical/cultural China.
中国の歴史は長いです。
China has a long history.
Often used in compounds to refer to Chinese civilization or culture, e.g., 中華料理 (Chinese cuisine), 中華思想 (Sinocentrism). Can sound somewhat literary or formal.
Historical term for China, now considered derogatory and offensive. Avoid using. Included only for recognition in historical texts.
This term is offensive. Do not use it to refer to China or Chinese people.
When 'China' appears as part of a compound word or phrase, such as 'China Sea' or 'China town'.
Most compounds use 中国 (Chūgoku) as the prefix.
中国語を勉強しています。
I am studying Chinese (language).
中国茶は種類が豊富です。
Chinese tea comes in many varieties.
Used in many culinary and cultural compounds, e.g., 中華街 (Chinatown), 中華鍋 (Chinese wok).
横浜中華街に行きましょう。
Let's go to Yokohama Chinatown.
Indicating that something is made in China or comes from China.
Means 'made in China'. Commonly seen on products.
このおもちゃは中国製です。
This toy is made in China.
Means 'produced in China', often used for agricultural products or raw materials.
中国産のニンニクが安いです。
Garlic from China is cheap.
The term 支那 was historically used for China but is now considered a racial slur. Never use it in modern Japanese. Stick to 中国.
I like Chinese food.
This old map says 'Shina'.