古木

• Reading: こぼく
• Romaji: koboku
• Kanji breakdown: 古 (ko) — old, ancient | 木 (boku/ki) — tree
• Pronunciation: /ko.bo.kɯ/

Meaning

Old tree; ancient tree. A tree of great age, often revered for its size, longevity, and spiritual significance.

A noun used in botany, cultural heritage, and religious contexts. Japan has a deep tradition of reverence for 古木, especially those designated as natural monuments (天然記念物). Sacred trees (御神木) at shrines and temples are often 古木 with origins tied to local mythology. Distinct from 老木, which emphasises aged appearance rather than historical or cultural significance.

Examples

1. 境内に立つ古木は樹齢八百年とされ、村人たちに長年守られてきた。 The ancient tree standing in the temple precinct is said to be 800 years old and has long been protected by the villagers.
2. 古木の根元に苔が生え、長い年月の重みを静かに物語っていた。 Moss grew at the base of the old tree, quietly bearing witness to the weight of long years.
3. 林道を歩いていると、幹まわり数メートルもある古木に突然出くわした。 Walking along the forest path, we suddenly came upon an ancient tree with a trunk several metres in circumference.

Usage Guide

Context: cultural heritage, Shinto shrines, nature writing, botany

Tone: reverent

Origin & History

Compound of 古 (ko, 'old, ancient') and 木 (boku/ki, 'tree'). A simple but evocative compound that appears in classical and modern Japanese to describe trees of remarkable age and presence.

Cultural Context

Era: Classical–Modern

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal