遺跡

• Reading: いせき
• Romaji: iseki
• Kanji breakdown: 遺 (i/yui) — leave behind, bequeath; 跡 (seki/ato) — trace, mark, remains
• Pronunciation: /i.se.ki/

Meaning

Archaeological remains; ruins; relics; historic site.

Refers to places where traces of past human activity remain — ancient buildings, tombs, settlements, and other archaeological sites. Japan has many famous 遺跡, including Jōmon-period sites. Also used for ruins abroad like Machu Picchu or Pompeii.

Examples

1. 奈良には古代の遺跡がたくさん残っている。 Many ancient ruins remain in Nara.
2. 工事中に偶然遺跡が発見された。 Ruins were accidentally discovered during construction.
3. 夏休みに海外の遺跡を巡る旅行をした。 I went on a trip during summer vacation to tour ruins abroad.

Usage Guide

Context: history, archaeology, travel

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

Compound of 遺 (i, leave behind/bequeath) + 跡 (seki/ato, trace/mark). Literally 'traces left behind' — the physical remains of past civilizations.

Cultural Context

Era: Ancient

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal