Translation guide
Guanyin is the Chinese name for the bodhisattva of compassion, known as Kannon in Japanese. This entry explains how to refer to Guanyin/Kannon in Japanese, covering religious contexts, common names, and cultural references.
Referring to the Buddhist deity of mercy and compassion, known as Guanyin in Chinese and Kannon in Japanese.
The standard Japanese name for the bodhisattva of compassion. Used in most contexts, including temples, prayers, and general discussion.
浅草の浅草寺には観音様が祀られています。
At Senso-ji in Asakusa, Kannon is enshrined.
観音経はよく読まれているお経です。
The Kannon Sutra is a commonly recited sutra.
A more formal, full name for Kannon, meaning 'the one who perceives the sounds of the world.' Used in sutras and formal Buddhist contexts.
観世音菩薩は慈悲の象徴です。
Kanzeon Bosatsu is a symbol of compassion.
An alternative name used in some Buddhist texts, particularly in the Heart Sutra. Less common in everyday reference.
般若心経では観自在菩薩と呼ばれています。
In the Heart Sutra, he is called Kanjizai Bosatsu.
Using a respectful title when speaking about or to Kannon, often in prayer or at temples.
The most common respectful way to refer to Kannon, adding the honorific suffix 様 (さま). Used in everyday speech and at temples.
観音様にお参りしてきました。
I went to pray to Kannon.
観音様のご加護がありますように。
May we receive Kannon's protection.
Refers to Kannon as a bodhisattva (菩薩). Common in Buddhist contexts and when discussing the deity's role.
観音菩薩は人々を救うために多くの姿に変身します。
Kannon Bosatsu transforms into many forms to save people.
Referring to particular iconographic forms of Kannon, such as the thousand-armed or eleven-faced versions.
Thousand-armed Kannon, a popular form representing the ability to reach out to all beings.
三十三間堂には千手観音像が千体あります。
At Sanjusangen-do, there are a thousand statues of Senju Kannon.
Referring to temples or locations that are dedicated to Kannon or have 'Kannon' in their name.
Many temples are named with the suffix 観音, such as 浅草観音 (Asakusa Kannon) for Senso-ji. This pattern is common in temple names.
浅草観音は東京で最も有名なお寺の一つです。
Asakusa Kannon is one of the most famous temples in Tokyo.
A sacred site or pilgrimage route dedicated to Kannon, such as the Saigoku Kannon Pilgrimage.
西国三十三所は有名な観音霊場です。
The Saigoku 33 temples are a famous Kannon pilgrimage.
In Chinese Buddhism, Guanyin is often depicted as female, but in Japanese Buddhism, Kannon is generally considered genderless or can appear in either male or female form. When speaking Japanese, avoid assuming a specific gender unless referring to a particular statue or depiction.
観音様は男性とも女性とも言われています。
Kannon is said to be both male and female.
The Chinese name 'Guanyin' is not commonly used in Japanese. If you say 'Guanyin' to a Japanese speaker, they may not immediately understand. Always use 'Kannon' (観音) in Japanese contexts. If you need to clarify the Chinese origin, you can say 中国の観音 (ちゅうごくのかんのん, 'Chinese Kannon').
Eleven-faced Kannon, a form with eleven heads symbolizing the ability to see suffering in all directions.
十一面観音は奈良の長谷寺で有名です。
Juichimen Kannon is famous at Hase-dera in Nara.
Kannon with the wish-fulfilling jewel and wheel, often depicted in a relaxed pose.
如意輪観音は半跏思惟の姿で表されます。
Nyoirin Kannon is depicted in a half-lotus contemplative pose.