Translation guide
A shelf used to display items, such as in a store, museum, or home. Japanese distinguishes between general display shelves, built-in alcoves, and specific types like glass cases.
陳列棚
display shelf (general)
A shelf for showing items, often in a retail or home setting.
The most direct and common term for a display shelf, especially in stores or exhibitions.
新商品を陳列棚に並べました。
We arranged the new products on the display shelf.
Often used for shelves in museums, galleries, or exhibitions where items are displayed for viewing.
美術館の展示棚に古い陶器が置いてあります。
Old pottery is placed on the display shelf in the museum.
A decorative shelf, often in a home, used to display ornaments or collectibles. Implies a more aesthetic purpose.
リビングの飾り棚に家族の写真を飾っています。
I display family photos on the decorative shelf in the living room.
A built-in shelf within a tokonoma, used to display art or flowers.
Refers specifically to the shelf inside a tokonoma. Often used for displaying a vase or scroll.
床の間の棚に生け花を飾りました。
I placed an ikebana arrangement on the display shelf in the alcove.
A staggered shelf unit often found in a tokonoma or traditional Japanese room, used for displaying ornaments.
違い棚に香炉と茶碗を置いています。
I have an incense burner and a tea bowl on the staggered display shelf.
A shelf with glass doors or panels, often used in stores or museums to protect items.
Commonly used for a glass display case with shelves. Often implies a freestanding unit.
貴重な宝石はガラスケースの中の棚に展示されています。
The precious jewels are displayed on a shelf inside a glass case.
A showcase, often with glass, used in retail. Can refer to the entire unit, including shelves.
パン屋のショーケースの棚にクロワッサンが並んでいます。
Croissants are lined up on the shelf in the bakery's display case.
陳列棚 is for commercial display (products). 展示棚 is for exhibition (art, artifacts). 飾り棚 is for decorative display at home. Use 棚 alone if context is clear.