Translation guide
The Chinese "Dipper" constellation refers to the Big Dipper asterism within the Chinese constellation system, known as 北斗七星 (Hokuto Shichisei) or simply 北斗 (Hokuto). This guide covers how to refer to this constellation in Japanese, including its cultural and astronomical significance.
Referring to the seven-star asterism known as the Big Dipper, part of the Chinese constellation system.
The standard Japanese term for the Big Dipper, literally 'Northern Dipper Seven Stars'. Used in both astronomical and everyday contexts.
今夜は北斗七星がよく見える。
Tonight, the Big Dipper is clearly visible.
Short for 北斗七星. Common in compound words or when the context is clear.
北斗は北の空に見える星座だ。
The Big Dipper is a constellation visible in the northern sky.
An alternative name for the Big Dipper, less common than 北斗七星. Sometimes used in literary or poetic contexts.
北斗星が夜空に輝いている。
The Big Dipper is shining in the night sky.
Referring specifically to the Chinese lunar mansion 'Dipper' (斗宿), one of the 28 mansions.
The Chinese constellation 'Dipper', one of the 28 lunar mansions. Used in traditional Chinese astronomy and astrology contexts.
斗宿は二十八宿の一つです。
The Dipper mansion is one of the 28 lunar mansions.
The 'Southern Dipper' (six stars), part of the Chinese constellation system, corresponding to part of Sagittarius. Often contrasted with the Northern Dipper (北斗七星).
南斗六星は北斗七星と対になる星座です。
The Southern Dipper is a constellation that pairs with the Northern Dipper.
北斗七星 (Hokuto Shichisei) refers to the Big Dipper asterism commonly known in the West, while 斗宿 (Toshuku) is the Chinese lunar mansion 'Dipper', which is a different grouping of stars. In everyday Japanese, 北斗七星 is the default term for the Big Dipper.
The Big Dipper is culturally significant in Japan, appearing in folklore and as a symbol of guidance. It is also associated with the god Myōken (妙見), often depicted with a sword and the Big Dipper.