1.
canal; waterway
An artificial waterway constructed for navigation, irrigation, or water supply.
パナマ運河は太平洋と大西洋を結んでいる。
The Panama Canal connects the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans.
運河を船が通る。
Boats pass through the canal.
この運河は江戸時代に作られた。
This canal was built during the Edo period.
USAGE: Refers to artificial waterways, as opposed to natural rivers.
FAMOUS CANALS:
- パナマ運河 (Panama Canal)
- スエズ運河 (Suez Canal)
- 小樽運河 (Otaru Canal - famous tourist spot in Hokkaido)
IN JAPAN: Many historical canals were built for transporting goods, especially during the Edo period. Some have been preserved as scenic spots.
RELATED:
- 水路 (waterway, channel)
- 川 (river - natural)