1.
ginkgo tree
A deciduous tree with distinctive fan-shaped leaves that turn golden yellow in autumn. One of the oldest tree species on Earth.
銀杏並木が黄金色に染まっている。
The ginkgo avenue is turning golden.
銀杏の葉が道に落ちている。
Ginkgo leaves have fallen on the road.
秋になると銀杏を拾う人がいる。
In autumn, there are people who gather ginkgo nuts.
銀杏 = ginkgo nut (different reading)
公園に大きな銀杏の木がある。
There is a large ginkgo tree in the park.
銀杏の葉は扇のような形をしている。
Ginkgo leaves are shaped like fans.
銀杏 refers to ginkgo trees.
Multiple readings:
- 銀杏 - the tree
- 銀杏 - the edible nut/seed
Common expressions:
- 銀杏並木 (ginkgo tree-lined avenue)
- 銀杏の葉 (ginkgo leaf)
- 銀杏 (ginkgo nut - eaten roasted or in dishes)
Counter: 本 (for trees)
Cultural note:
Ginkgo trees are commonly planted along streets in Japan. Famous ginkgo avenues include Meiji Jingu Gaien in Tokyo, which turns bright yellow in November. The ginkgo leaf is the symbol of Tokyo Metropolitan Government. 銀杏 (ginkgo nuts) are eaten in autumn dishes like 茶碗蒸し, but they have a strong smell when fresh.