名所

めいしょ

famous place

JLPT N2

Character Breakdown

Meaning and Usage

"名所" (めいしょ) refers to a famous or well-known place, often a tourist attraction or a site of cultural or historical significance. It is commonly used when talking about sightseeing spots or places worth visiting.

Common Contexts

You will often hear "名所" in travel conversations, guidebooks, and when locals recommend places to visitors. It usually implies a place that is recognized widely for its importance or beauty.

Collocations and Patterns

  • 名所を訪れる (めいしょをおとずれる): to visit a famous place
  • 名所案内 (めいしょあんない): guide to famous places
  • 名所旧跡 (めいしょきゅうせき): famous historic sites

Register and Nuance

"名所" is neutral and polite, suitable for both casual and formal contexts. It is not used for everyday places but specifically for notable or famous locations.

Common Mistakes

Learners sometimes confuse "名所" with "場所" (ばしょ), which means any place or location. Remember, "名所" specifically refers to places famous for some reason, not just any place.

Example Sentences

きょうとにはおおくのれきしてきなめいしょがあります。

Kyoto has many historical famous places.

りょこうのけいかくをたてるとき、めいしょをおとずれることがたのしみです。

When making travel plans, visiting famous places is something I look forward to.

このまちのめいしょをあんないしてもらえますか?

Can you show me around the famous places in this town?