JLPT N2
西方
西方 is a formal word for “the west.” It’s used for geographical directions. But with a different reading, it refers to the Buddhist “Western Paradise.”
Readings
1 Noun
The West / Western Direction
Refers to the direction west or a region to the west. This is a more formal or written-style equivalent of 西 (nishi).
2 Noun
The Western Paradise (Buddhism)
In a Buddhist context, this refers to the “Western Pure Land” (西方浄土 - saihou joudo), the paradise where the Amida Buddha is said to reside.
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