Translation guide
An heirloom is a valuable object passed down through generations. In Japanese, the most common equivalent is 家宝 (かほう), but the concept can also be expressed through words like 先祖伝来の品 or 形見, depending on context.
A valuable item inherited within a family, often with historical or sentimental value.
A traditional plant variety maintained by gardeners and farmers, not commercially mass-produced.
Refers to open-pollinated, traditional varieties that breed true. Common in gardening and farming contexts.
このトマトは固定種です。
This tomato is an heirloom variety.
家宝 is a family treasure passed down, often with monetary or historical value. 形見 is a keepsake from a deceased person, focusing on sentimental value. An heirloom can be both, but 形見 does not necessarily imply it was passed down through generations.
Avoid translating 'heirloom' directly as 相続品 (そうぞくひん) or 遺産 (いさん), as these refer to inheritance in a legal/financial sense, not the sentimental or traditional aspect.
This watch is our family heirloom.
Literally 'an item handed down from ancestors'. Used when emphasizing the generational aspect.
その刀は先祖伝来の品だ。
That sword is an heirloom passed down from our ancestors.
A keepsake or memento from a deceased person. It can be an heirloom if passed down, but focuses on the memory of the giver.
祖母の形見の指輪を大切にしている。
I treasure the ring that was my grandmother's keepsake.
A descriptive phrase meaning 'something that has been passed down for generations'. More explanatory than a single word.
この壺は代々受け継がれてきたものです。
This pot is something that has been handed down for generations.
Native or traditional variety, often used for crops that have been grown in a region for a long time.
在来種の野菜を育てています。
I'm growing heirloom vegetables.
Literally 'traditional vegetables'. Often used for heirloom vegetable varieties with cultural significance.
京都の伝統野菜はとても美味しい。
Kyoto's heirloom vegetables are very delicious.