Translation guide
In Japanese, the term for 'provincial capital' depends on the administrative context. For modern prefectures, use 県庁所在地 (prefectural capital). For historical provinces, use 国府 or 国衙. For Chinese provincial capitals, use 省都.
The city where the prefectural government is located.
Standard term for the capital city of a prefecture. Literally 'prefectural office location'.
前橋は群馬県の県庁所在地です。
Maebashi is the prefectural capital of Gunma.
A shorter, more literary term for prefectural capital. Often used in formal or written contexts.
県都に新しい美術館が建設された。
A new art museum was built in the prefectural capital.
The capital of an old province (kuni) before the Meiji era.
The historical provincial capital in the Ritsuryō system. Often used in historical contexts.
この町はかつて国府が置かれていた。
This town was once the site of the provincial capital.
Refers to the provincial government office, often synonymous with the capital. More administrative nuance.
The capital city of a province in China or other countries with provinces.
Standard term for the capital of a Chinese province. Can be used for other countries with provinces.
杭州は浙江省の省都です。
Hangzhou is the provincial capital of Zhejiang.
A more literal translation, but rarely used. 省都 is preferred.
省庁所在地は交通の要所であることが多い。
Provincial capitals are often transportation hubs.
A shrine was built on the site of the provincial government office.