(ひほう)

ひほう
noun
hidden treasure, secret treasure
1. hidden treasure, secret treasure, prized possession
A valuable object that is kept hidden or secret. Often used for treasures held by temples, shrines, or museums that are rarely shown to the public, or for legendary treasures in stories.
(てら)秘宝(ひほう)公開(こうかい)された。
The temple's hidden treasure was put on public display.
この博物館(はくぶつかん)には世界(せかい)秘宝(ひほう)(あつ)められている。
This museum has gathered treasures from around the world.
冒険家(ぼうけんか)たちは、古代文明(こだいぶんめい)秘宝(ひほう)(もと)めてジャングルの奥地(おくち)へと()かった。
The adventurers headed deep into the jungle in search of an ancient civilization's hidden treasure.

USAGE:
Used in two main contexts: (1) real treasures held by temples, shrines, or institutions, often rarely displayed to the public, and (2) legendary or fictional hidden treasures in adventure stories and games.

SIMILAR WORDS:

  • 宝物(たからもの): a general word for treasure or prized possession, used in everyday speech
  • 国宝(こくほう): national treasure, an official designation for culturally significant objects
  • 財宝(ざいほう): treasure, riches (emphasizes monetary value)

COMMON COLLOCATIONS:

  • 秘宝(ひほう)(てん): hidden treasures exhibition
  • 秘宝(ひほう)公開(こうかい)する: to put a hidden treasure on display
  • 秘宝(ひほう)(さが)す: to search for hidden treasure
  • (てら)秘宝(ひほう): a temple's hidden treasure