名産(めいさん)

Composed of 名(めい) (famous) and 産(さん) (product/produce). Refers to products that a particular area is renowned for, especially food items and traditional crafts.

Common collocations

• 名産(めいさん)品(ひん): famous local product
• 名産(めいさん)地(ち): area famous for a product
• ～の名産(めいさん): the specialty of ~
• 各地(かくち)の名産(めいさん): specialties from various regions

Similar words

• 特産(とくさん): special product — nearly synonymous, slightly more emphasis on uniqueness to the area
• 名物(めいぶつ): famous thing/specialty — broader, can include non-products like sights or events
• 土産(みやげ): souvenir — a gift bought while traveling, often a local specialty

Cultural note

Japan has a strong culture of regional specialties (名産(めいさん)品(ひん)). Every prefecture and major city is associated with particular foods or crafts. Buying local 名産(めいさん) as お土産(みやげ) (souvenirs) for family and coworkers is an important social custom when traveling.