Japanese words for hobbies and pastimes

In this article, we will explore various Japanese words related to hobbies and pastimes. Understanding these terms will not only enhance your vocabulary but also help you discuss your interests more naturally in Japanese.

趣味 (しゅみ, shumi) – Hobby
私の趣味は読書です。
This word is used to describe hobbies in general. It can be anything from reading to sports.

読書 (どくしょ, dokusho) – Reading
彼は毎晩、寝る前に読書をしています。
Reading, whether it be books, magazines, or digital content, is a popular pastime among all age groups.

映画鑑賞 (えいがかんしょう, eigakanjou) – Watching movies
週末はよく映画鑑賞をします。
Watching movies is a common leisure activity and a great way to understand cultural nuances.

料理 (りょうり, ryouri) – Cooking
彼女は料理が得意です。
Cooking not only serves as a daily necessity but also as a creative outlet for many.

写真撮影 (しゃしんさつえい, shashinsatsuei) – Photography
旅行中は特に写真撮影を楽しんでいます。
Photography can capture moments and scenery, making it a beloved hobby for travelers and creatives alike.

釣り (つり, tsuri) – Fishing
彼は週末ごとに釣りに行きます。
Fishing is a relaxing pastime that allows people to connect with nature.

手芸 (しゅげい, shugei) – Handicrafts
彼女は手芸で色々なものを作ります。
Creating handicrafts can be a therapeutic activity, offering a sense of accomplishment upon completion.

絵画 (かいが, kaiga) – Painting
彼は休日に絵画を描くのが好きです。
Painting allows individuals to express their emotions and interpretations of the world on canvas.

ガーデニング (がーでにんぐ, ga-deningu) – Gardening
私たちはガーデニングで家の周りを美しくしています。
Gardening can be a fulfilling pastime that beautifies your living space and can even provide homegrown produce.

登山 (とざん, tozan) – Mountain climbing
彼は登山で日本の山々を制覇したいと思っています。
Mountain climbing is not only physically challenging but also offers spectacular views and a strong sense of achievement.

ダンス (だんす, dansu) – Dancing
彼女は週に三回ダンスのクラスに通っています。
Dancing is an artistic form of expression and a great way to stay active.

音楽鑑賞 (おんがくかんしょう, ongakukanjou) – Listening to music
音楽鑑賞は私のストレス解消法の一つです。
Listening to music can be a soothing activity and is easily integrated into other daily tasks.

スポーツ (すぽーつ, supo-tsu) – Sports
彼は様々なスポーツを楽しんでいます。
Playing sports is not only good for physical health but also for socializing and teamwork.

ボードゲーム (ぼーどげーむ, bo-doge-mu) – Board games
友達とボードゲームをするのが週末の楽しみです。
Board games are a fun way to challenge the mind and enjoy time with friends or family.

漫画 (まんが, manga) – Comics
彼は漫画集めが趣味です。
Reading manga is a significant part of contemporary Japanese culture and a hobby enjoyed by people of all ages.

ビデオゲーム (びでおげーむ, bideo ge-mu) – Video games
弟はビデオゲームで遊ぶのが大好きです。
Playing video games is a popular pastime worldwide and involves various genres to suit different interests.

書道 (しょどう, shodou) – Calligraphy
彼女は書道で美しい文字を習得しようとしています。
Calligraphy is an art form that focuses on writing characters beautifully and is deeply connected with Japanese culture.

旅行 (りょこう, ryokou) – Traveling
年に何回かは旅行に行くようにしています。
Traveling allows individuals to explore new places, cultures, and experiences.

Understanding these Japanese words for hobbies and pastimes can greatly enhance your ability to share your interests with others in Japanese. Whether it’s discussing your latest read or planning a mountain trek, these vocabularies will help you connect more deeply with Japanese speakers and culture.

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