Japanese word for ocean

When learning Japanese, one of the most beautiful and essential words you’ll come across is "海(うみ/umi/)", which means "ocean" or "sea". How is it used in Japanese? Let's learn together.

The kanji "海"

The kanji "海(うみ/umi/)" is composed of three elements:

氵 (sanzui): A radical that represents water. It appears in many words related to water, such as "湖 (みずうみ/mizuumi/) lake" and 泳(およ)ぐ/oyo(gu)/ to swim.

毎 (まい /mai/): The other part of the kanji, which on its own means “every” or “each.”

Together, they symbolize nature of the ocean.

How to Use "海" in Sentences

Now that you know the word "海(うみ/umi/)", let's explore how you can use it in everyday conversation.

• 海(うみ)に行(い)きたい！/Umi ni ikitai!/ "I want to go to the ocean!"

This is a simple expression often used in summer when people head to the beach for relaxation.

• 海(うみ)がきれいですね。/Umi ga kirei desu ne./ "The ocean is beautiful, isn’t it?"

A common way to express appreciation for nature, especially when looking at the ocean during sunset or sunrise.

Related Words and Phrases

Here are a few more words related to "海(うみ/umi/)":

• 海岸 (かいがん/kaigan/): Coastline or seashore.
• 海(うみ)の幸(さち) /umi no sachi/: Seafood (literally “blessings of the sea”).
• 海辺 (うみべ/umibe/): Beach or seaside.

What is 海の日?

"海(うみ)の日(ひ)/umi no hi/" is a Japanese national holiday celebrated on the third Monday of July. It honors the ocean's importance to Japan as a maritime nation and promotes awareness of the ocean's role in daily life.

People often use the holiday to visit beaches, enjoy marine activities, and reflect on the sea's contributions to the country's prosperity.

Many schools in Japan begin their summer vacation on the day of the sea. As Japanese people, we feel that summer has begun on the day of the sea.