展望台

• Reading: てんぼうだい
• Romaji: tenboudai
• Kanji breakdown: 展 (ten) — spread, unfold; 望 (bou) — look, hope; 台 (dai) — platform, stand
• Pronunciation: /teɴ.boː.dai/

Meaning

An observation deck or viewing platform; a structure built for enjoying panoramic views.

A compound noun combining 展望 (panoramic view) with 台 (platform/stand). Found at scenic spots, tall buildings, mountains, and tourist attractions throughout Japan. Famous examples include Tokyo Tower and Tokyo Skytree observation decks. Often features telescopes and informational signs about visible landmarks.

Examples

1. 展望台から街全体を見渡すことができる。 You can look out over the entire city from the observation deck.
2. 東京タワーの展望台はいつも観光客で賑わっている。 Tokyo Tower's observation deck is always packed with tourists.
3. 山の展望台まで歩いて三十分くらいかかった。 It took about thirty minutes to walk up to the observation deck on the mountain.

Usage Guide

Context: tourism, sightseeing, architecture, travel

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

From 展望 (tenbou, panoramic view/outlook) + 台 (dai, platform/stand). Literally 'panoramic view platform,' describing a raised structure specifically designed for viewing scenery.

Cultural Context

Era: Modern

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal