Planning a trip to Japan? While many people in major cities speak some English, knowing a few key Japanese phrases can make your journey smoother and more enjoyable. This guide will help you with basic communication, cultural etiquette, and useful travel tips!
1. Essential Greetings & Politeness Phrases
Being polite goes a long way in Japan! Start with these basic greetings:
こんにちは (Konnichiwa) – Hello
おはようございます (Ohayou gozaimasu) – Good morning
こんばんは (Konbanwa) – Good evening
ありがとう (Arigatou) – Thank you (Add ございます (gozaimasu) for extra politeness!)
すみません (Sumimasen) – Excuse me / Sorry
🔹 Cultural Note: Bowing is the standard way of greeting in Japan. A small bow shows politeness, especially when thanking someone or apologizing.
2. Getting Around: Transportation Phrases
Navigating Japan’s train and bus systems is easier with these key phrases:
(駅) はどこですか？ ((Eki) wa doko desu ka?) – Where is (the station)?
この電車は東京に行きますか？ (Kono densha wa Tokyo ni ikimasu ka?) – Does this train go to Tokyo?
いくらですか？ (Ikura desu ka?) – How much is it?
Suica / Pasmo カードを使えますか？ (Suica/Pasmo kādo o tsukaemasu ka?) – Can I use my Suica/Pasmo card?
🔹 Tip: Consider getting a Japan Rail Pass for unlimited train travel, especially for long-distance trips!
3. Ordering Food at Restaurants
Japanese food is a highlight of any trip! Use these phrases to order with ease:
メニューをください (Menyuu o kudasai) – May I have the menu?
これをください (Kore o kudasai) – I’ll take this one (pointing at the menu)
お水をください (Omizu o kudasai) – May I have some water?
お会計をお願いします (Okaikei o onegaishimasu) – Check, please
🔹 Fun Fact: Many restaurants have plastic food displays outside, so you can point at what you want to order!
4. Shopping & Buying Souvenirs
Buying gifts? Here’s how to ask for help while shopping:
これはいくらですか？ (Kore wa ikura desu ka?) – How much is this?
カードで払えますか？ (Kaado de haraemasu ka?) – Can I pay with a card?
もっと大きいサイズはありますか？ (Motto ookii saizu wa arimasu ka?) – Do you have a bigger size?
免税できますか？ (Menzei dekimasu ka?) – Can I get tax-free shopping?
5. Emergency Phrases
Hopefully, you won’t need these, but just in case:
助けてください！ (Tasukete kudasai!) – Help, please!
病院はどこですか？ (Byouin wa doko desu ka?) – Where is the hospital?
警察を呼んでください (Keisatsu o yonde kudasai) – Please call the police
英語を話せますか？ (Eigo o hanasemasu ka?) – Can you speak English?
6. Bonus: Japanese Etiquette for Travelers
Take off your shoes before entering homes, temples, and some restaurants.
Don’t talk loudly on public transport—Japanese people value quiet spaces.
Hand cash with both hands when paying at stores.
Avoid tipping—it’s not customary in Japan.
