Translation guide
The English word 'church' can refer to a Christian place of worship, a specific denomination or organized religion, or a religious service. This guide covers how to express these meanings naturally in Japanese.
Referring to a Christian church building.
The standard word for a Christian church building. Can be used for any denomination.
あの教会はとても古いです。
That church is very old.
日曜日に教会に行きます。
I go to church on Sundays.
Loanword from English, often used in names of specific churches or in a modern context.
あそこに新しいチャーチができた。
A new church has opened over there.
Refers to a consecrated building, often used for Catholic or Orthodox churches, or a temple-like hall. More formal/literary.
その聖堂は美しいステンドグラスで有名です。
That church is famous for its beautiful stained glass.
Referring to a Christian denomination or the institution of the Church.
Also used for the Church as an institution or denomination. Context makes the meaning clear.
カトリック教会の教え
the teachings of the Catholic Church
教会と国家の分離
separation of church and state
Specifically means 'denomination' or 'sect'. Used when distinguishing between branches of Christianity.
Referring to a church service or the act of going to church.
Means 'worship service'. Commonly used for the event itself.
礼拝は何時に始まりますか。
What time does the church service start?
日曜日の礼拝に参加する。
Attend Sunday worship.
Specifically the Catholic Mass. Not used for Protestant services.
日曜日のミサに行く。
Go to Mass on Sunday.
The most natural way to say 'go to church' (the activity). Literally 'go to church'.
毎週日曜日に教会に行っています。
I go to church every Sunday.
While チャーチ is sometimes used for church buildings or in names, it is not natural for referring to the Church as an organization or denomination. Use 教会 instead.
カトリック教会
the Catholic Church
Christianity is a minority religion in Japan, so churches are less common than temples (寺, てら) and shrines (神社, じんじゃ). When describing a church to someone unfamiliar, you might say キリスト教の教会 (Christian church).
There are many Protestant denominations.