Translation guide
Refers to bodies of water surrounded by land, such as lakes, rivers, and canals, as opposed to the open sea. In Japanese, this concept is expressed through specific terms depending on context, such as geography, law, or navigation.
To refer to inland bodies of water in a geographical or descriptive sense.
The most direct translation, used in geography and law to mean inland waters, including lakes, rivers, and canals.
この地域の内水は豊かな生態系を支えている。
The inland waters of this region support a rich ecosystem.
A more explicit term meaning 'inland water area', often used in environmental or scientific contexts.
内陸水域の汚染が問題になっている。
Pollution of inland waters has become a problem.
To refer to inland waters as defined in international law (e.g., UNCLOS) or maritime regulations.
In legal contexts, 内水 specifically refers to waters on the landward side of the baseline of a country's territorial sea, such as bays, rivers, and ports.
国際法上、内水には無害通航権は認められていない。
Under international law, the right of innocent passage does not apply to inland waters.
Literally 'domestic waters', sometimes used in legal or policy documents to refer to waters under national jurisdiction, including inland waters.
この法律は国内水域における漁業を規制する。
This law regulates fishing in domestic waters.
To refer to inland waterways used for transportation or recreation.
Specifically means 'inland waterway', emphasizing navigable rivers and canals.
内陸水路を使って貨物を運ぶ。
Transport goods using inland waterways.
Can also be used in navigation contexts, but 内陸水路 is more specific for waterways.
内水航行の許可が必要だ。
Permission for inland water navigation is required.
To refer to inland waters as a resource for fishing or fish farming.
Commonly used in the context of inland fisheries and aquaculture, literally 'inland water surface'.
内水面漁業は地域経済に貢献している。
Inland water fisheries contribute to the local economy.
Means 'fresh water', often used when the focus is on the type of water rather than the geographical location.
淡水魚の養殖が盛んだ。
Freshwater fish farming is thriving.
内水 is the broadest term for inland waters. 内陸水域 emphasizes the geographical aspect (inland water areas). 内水面 is specifically used in fisheries and aquaculture contexts. Choose based on context.
内水は国際法で定義されている。
Inland waters are defined in international law.
内陸水域の生態系を守る。
Protect the ecosystem of inland water areas.
内水面での釣りが趣味だ。
Fishing in inland waters is my hobby.
Do not translate 'inland waters' word-for-word as 内陸の水 (inland water) or 陸地の水域 (water area of land). These are not natural Japanese terms. Use the established terms above.
船は内水を航行した。
The ship sailed through inland waters.
内陸水域は生物多様性にとって重要だ。
Inland waters are important for biodiversity.