Planning a trip to Japan? Whether you’re exploring the bustling streets of Tokyo, enjoying Kyoto’s ancient temples, or soaking in a hot spring in Hakone, knowing basic Japanese phrases for travel can make a huge difference. While Japan is a welcoming country with an increasing number of English-friendly places, you might still encounter situations where English isn’t widely spoken.
By learning a few essential expressions, you can navigate restaurants, hotels, public transportation, and even emergency situations with ease. More importantly, locals appreciate the effort when travelers try to speak Japanese, even just a little! A simple “Arigatou” (thank you) or “Sumimasen” (excuse me) can go a long way in making your trip smoother and more enjoyable.
In this guide, we’ll cover basic Japanese phrases for travel that will help you
- Greet people and use polite expressions naturally
- Communicate at airports, hotels, restaurants, and shops
- Ask for directions and handle public transportation
- Deal with emergencies confidently
We’ll also share pronunciation tips, cultural insights, and even a downloadable cheat sheet for quick reference. So, whether you're a first-time visitor or a frequent traveler to Japan, mastering these basic Japanese phrases for travel will ensure a stress-free and enjoyable journey. Let's get started!
Why Learning Basic Japanese Phrases for Travel is Essential
Basic Japanese Greetings & Polite Expressions: Essential Phrases for a Smooth Trip
When traveling in Japan, using basic Japanese phrases for travel can make a great first impression. Even if you don’t speak the language fluently, knowing a few greetings and polite expressions will help you connect with locals and navigate different situations with ease.
Here are some essential greetings and expressions that every traveler should know:
1. Hello & Goodbye
-
こんにちは (Konnichiwa) – Hello
→ Used during the day. It’s a safe and polite way to greet someone. -
さようなら (Sayounara) – Goodbye
→ A formal way to say goodbye, but not commonly used in casual situations. Instead, many people say じゃあね (Jaa ne), which means “See you!”
2. Thank You & Excuse Me
-
ありがとう (Arigatou) – Thank you
→ To be extra polite, say ありがとうございます (Arigatou gozaimasu). -
すみません (Sumimasen) – Excuse me / Sorry
→ This is a super useful word! Use it to get someone’s attention or to apologize.
3. Asking for Help & Making Requests
-
お願いします (Onegaishimasu) – Please (when requesting something)
→ You’ll hear this a lot in restaurants and shops. If you need help, saying this politely can go a long way. -
〜は英語で何と言いますか? (~ wa eigo de nan to iimasu ka?) – How do you say ~ in English?
→ Useful when trying to learn new words or ask for an English translation.
These basic Japanese phrases for travel will help you navigate Japan with confidence. Even if you only remember a few, locals will appreciate your effort!
At the Airport: Essential Basic Japanese Phrases for Travel
Welcome to Japan! Whether you just landed in Tokyo, Osaka, or Fukuoka, the first step of your journey begins at the airport. While major airports in Japan have English signs and staff who speak some English, knowing a few basic Japanese phrases for travel can make your arrival much smoother.
Here are some useful phrases to help you navigate immigration, customs, baggage claim, and transportation.
1. Immigration & Customs
-
日本にはどれくらい滞在しますか? (Nihon ni wa dorekurai taizai shimasu ka?) – How long will you stay in Japan?
→ You might be asked this question. You can respond with something like:
"1週間です。" (Isshūkan desu.) – One week. -
申告するものはありません (Shinkoku suru mono wa arimasen) – I have nothing to declare.
→ If you don’t have anything to declare at customs, this phrase is handy.
2. Baggage Claim & Transportation
-
荷物を受け取る場所はどこですか? (Nimotsu o uketoru basho wa doko desu ka?) – Where can I pick up my luggage?
→ If you’re unsure where to go, ask an airport staff member. -
バス乗り場はどこですか? (Basu noriba wa doko desu ka?) – Where is the bus stop?
→ Japan has excellent airport bus services, often more convenient than trains. -
この電車は東京駅に行きますか? (Kono densha wa Tōkyō-eki ni ikimasu ka?) – Does this train go to Tokyo Station?
→ Useful when navigating the train system from the airport.
Japan’s airports are very organized, but being able to use these basic Japanese phrases for travel will help you feel more confident upon arrival. Next stop: your hotel!
At the Hotel: Basic Japanese Phrases for Travel
Checking into your hotel in Japan? If you’re staying at a high-end hotel in Tokyo or Osaka, you’ll have no problem communicating in English. Luxury hotels usually have multilingual staff, so English will work just fine. However, if you’re staying in a budget hotel or a local inn (ryokan) in the countryside, English proficiency may be limited.
To make things even trickier, hotel staff in Japan often use keigo , a highly formal and polite way of speaking. This can make even simple conversations difficult for non-Japanese speakers. But don’t worry! Here are some basic Japanese phrases for travel to help you check in, check out, and request services. Plus, we’ve included some polite phrases you might hear from hotel staff.
1. Common Phrases from Hotel Staff
When checking in, the front desk staff may greet you with polite expressions. Here are some you might hear:
-
ご予約はございますか? (Goyoyaku wa gozaimasu ka?) – Do you have a reservation?
→ This is a very polite way of asking if you have a booking. -
お名前をお伺いしてもよろしいですか? (Onamae o ukagatte mo yoroshii desu ka?) – May I have your name?
→ Instead of the casual "名前は?(Namae wa?)", hotel staff will use this polite phrase. -
パスポートを拝見してもよろしいでしょうか? (Pasupōto o haiken shite mo yoroshii deshou ka?) – May I see your passport?
→ Foreign travelers are often asked to show their passports at check-in.
If you don’t understand, you can simply respond with
🗣 すみません、もう一度お願いします (Sumimasen, mou ichido onegaishimasu) – Sorry, could you say that again?
2. Checking In & Out
-
予約しています (Yoyaku shiteimasu) – I have a reservation.
→ If the staff asks "ご予約はございますか?", you can reply with this. -
チェックインをお願いします (Chekkuin o onegaishimasu) – I’d like to check in.
→ A simple way to let the staff know you’re ready. -
チェックアウトは何時ですか? (Chekkuauto wa nanji desu ka?) – What time is checkout?
→ Useful for planning your departure.
3. Requesting Services
-
Wi-Fiのパスワードを教えてください (Wi-Fi no pasuwādo o oshiete kudasai) – Can you tell me the Wi-Fi password?
→ Hotels usually have free Wi-Fi, but passwords aren’t always displayed. -
タクシーを呼んでください (Takushī o yonde kudasai) – Please call a taxi.
→ Especially useful when staying in rural areas where taxis aren’t readily available. -
エアコンのリモコンが動きません (Eakon no rimokon ga ugokimasen) – The air conditioner remote isn’t working.
→ Japanese hotel rooms often have remote-controlled air conditioning.
Hotels in Japan are known for their hospitality, and using these basic Japanese phrases for travel will help make your stay even more enjoyable!
If you don’t understand keigo (formal Japanese), or if your translation app doesn’t recognize it, don’t worry! You can simply ask the staff to speak in simpler Japanese or use basic English. Most hotel staff will do their best to accommodate you.
Here’s how you can ask:
🗣 「もっと簡単な日本語でお願いします。」 (Motto kantan na Nihongo de onegaishimasu.) – Please use simpler Japanese.
🗣 「簡単な英語で話してもらえますか?」 (Kantan na eigo de hanashite moraemasu ka?) – Could you speak in simple English?
Even if they aren’t fluent in English, they will usually try to communicate in an easier way. Japanese hospitality is all about making guests feel comfortable, so don’t be afraid to ask!
At a Restaurant: How to Respond to Common Questions
Dining out in Japan is an amazing experience, but it can be a little tricky if you don’t speak Japanese. While many restaurants in big cities have English menus, smaller local restaurants and izakayas (居酒屋, Japanese pubs) often do not. In fact, some izakayas even have a "No Foreigners" policy, which can be frustrating. This is usually due to language barriers rather than discrimination.
That said, don’t be afraid to ask for an English menu! Even if you don’t say the full sentence, simply asking "English menu?" will usually work just fine. Let’s go over some common questions you might hear and how to respond.
Getting a Table
- How Many People?
When you enter a restaurant, the staff will usually ask
🗣 「何名様ですか?」 (Nan-mei sama desu ka?) – How many people in your group?
👤 How to respond
- "Two." (Simple and effective!)
- ✌️ (Hold up two fingers)
- 「2人です。」 (Futari desu.) – We are two people.
Even just showing a number with your fingers works perfectly!
- Smoking or Non-Smoking?
Although smoking is now banned in most restaurants, some places may still ask
🗣 「おタバコは吸われますか?」 (O-tabako wa suwaremasu ka?) – Do you smoke?
👤 How to respond
- 「吸いません。」 (Suimasen.) – I don’t smoke.
- 「禁煙席をお願いします。」 (Kin’ensēki o onegaishimasu.) – A non-smoking seat, please.
If you don’t understand, just say “No smoking” or shake your head.
- Counter or Table?
Some restaurants let you choose where to sit.
🗣 「カウンター席とテーブル席、どちらがよろしいですか?」 (Kauntā seki to tēburu seki, dochira ga yoroshii desu ka?) – Would you like a counter or table seat?
👤 How to respond
- "Table, please."
- 「テーブル席でお願いします。」 (Tēburu seki de onegaishimasu.) – A table seat, please.
- "Counter is okay."
- 「カウンターで大丈夫です。」 (Kauntā de daijoubu desu.) – The counter is fine.
Even just saying "Table" or "Counter" is enough!
Ordering Food
-
おすすめは何ですか? (Osusume wa nan desu ka?) – What do you recommend?
→ Great for discovering new dishes! -
これをください (Kore o kudasai) – I’ll have this.
→ Pointing at the menu and saying this works perfectly! - English Menu?
Many restaurants in tourist areas have English menus, but some don’t. Instead of asking a full sentence, you can simply say
🗣 "English menu?"
🗣 「イングリッシュメニューある?」 (Ingurisshu menyū aru?) – Do you have an English menu?
🗣 「英語のメニューはありますか?」 (Eigo no menyū wa arimasu ka?) – Do you have an English menu?
👤 Possible responses from staff:
✔️ 「はい、あります!」 (Hai, arimasu!) – Yes, we do!
❌ 「すみません、英語のメニューはありません。」 (Sumimasen, eigo no menyū wa arimasen.) – Sorry, we don’t have an English menu.
If there’s no English menu, don’t panic! Many places have photo menus, so you can point at what you want.
📌 Note: Izakayas (Japanese pubs) usually don’t have English menus. Some izakayas also have a "No Foreigners" policy, but this is mostly because of language barriers. If you're not sure, look for restaurants with English signage or menus displayed outside.
Paying the Bill
-
お会計お願いします (Okaikei onegaishimasu) – The bill, please.
→ In Japan, you usually ask for the bill instead of waiting for it to be brought to you. -
クレジットカードは使えますか? (Kurejitto kādo wa tsukaemasu ka?) – Can I use a credit card?
→ Many places still only accept cash, so it’s good to check.
Don’t Stress About Speaking Japanese!
Japanese restaurant staff always use polite Japanese (keigo, 敬語), but you don’t need to respond the same way! Simple English, basic Japanese, and gestures work just fine.
✅ "Two!" (Holding up two fingers) → Works perfectly!
✅ "English menu?" → They’ll understand!
✅ Point at a picture on the menu → Easy ordering!
Japan is famous for its hospitality, so just relax and enjoy the amazing food!
Shopping & Asking for Prices: Basic Japanese Phrases for Travel
Shopping in Japan is an exciting experience! Whether you're exploring department stores in Tokyo, browsing street markets in Kyoto, or hunting for souvenirs in Osaka, knowing a few basic Japanese phrases for travel will make your shopping trip much smoother.
While major stores often have English-speaking staff, smaller shops and local markets may not. But don’t worry! With a mix of simple Japanese and gestures, you’ll be able to ask for prices, make purchases, and even ask about discounts.
Here are some essential phrases to help you shop with confidence.
1. Asking for Prices
When you find something you like, you can ask:
🗣 「これはいくらですか?」 (Kore wa ikura desu ka?) – How much is this?
→ Works in any shop, just point at the item while asking.
🗣 「全部でいくらですか?」 (Zenbu de ikura desu ka?) – How much is it in total?
→ Useful when buying multiple items.
👤 Possible Responses from Staff:
✔️ 「〇〇円です。」 (〇〇 en desu.) – It’s 〇〇 yen.
❓ If you don’t understand the number, ask:
🗣 「もう一度お願いします。」 (Mou ichido onegaishimasu.) – Could you say that again?
💡 Tip: Prices in Japan usually include tax, but some stores show tax-excluded prices. If unsure, ask:
🗣 「税込みですか?」 (Zeikomi desu ka?) – Is tax included?
2. Asking About Payment
Not all stores accept credit cards, so it's good to ask:
🗣 「クレジットカードは使えますか?」 (Kurejitto kādo wa tsukaemasu ka?) – Can I use a credit card?
✔️ 「はい、使えます。」 (Hai, tsukaemasu.) – Yes, you can.
❌ 「現金のみです。」 (Genkin nomi desu.) – Cash only.
If you need an ATM, ask:
🗣 「近くにATMはありますか?」 (Chikaku ni ATM wa arimasu ka?) – Is there an ATM nearby?
3. Asking for a Discount
In department stores, prices are fixed, but at flea markets or souvenir shops, you might be able to negotiate.
🗣 「もう少し安くなりますか?」 (Mou sukoshi yasuku narimasu ka?) – Can you give me a discount?
🗣 「これ、2つ買ったら安くなりますか?」 (Kore, futatsu kattara yasuku narimasu ka?) – If I buy two, can I get a discount?
👤 Possible Responses from Staff:
✔️ 「いいですよ!」 (Ii desu yo!) – Sure!
❌ 「すみません、値下げできません。」 (Sumimasen, nesage dekimasen.) – Sorry, no discounts.
💡 Tip: Bargaining is uncommon in Japan, so don’t expect major discounts—but it’s worth asking at markets!
4. When Paying
- 「これをください。」 (Kore o kudasai.) – I’ll take this.
- 「袋はいりません。」 (Fukuro wa irimasen.) – I don’t need a bag.
→ Many stores charge for plastic bags, so bring a reusable one!
Shopping in Japan: What You Need to Know
Cash is still king – Many smaller stores only accept cash.
No tipping – Unlike in some countries, tipping is not expected.
No heavy bargaining – Discounts are rare, except in markets.
Tax-free shopping – Some stores offer tax-free shopping for tourists! Look for a "Tax-Free" sign and show your passport.
Using these basic Japanese phrases for travel will make shopping in Japan a fun and stress-free experience. Enjoy your shopping adventure!
Using Public Transportation: Basic Japanese Phrases for Travel
Getting around Japan is easy thanks to its efficient public transportation system. Trains, buses, and taxis are all reliable, but figuring out routes and tickets can be a bit confusing—especially since English isn’t always available.
With a few basic Japanese phrases for travel, you can confidently navigate Japan’s transportation system and get to your destination smoothly. Whether you're taking a bullet train, catching a local bus, or hailing a taxi, these phrases will help!
1. Buying Train or Bus Tickets
Most major stations have English ticket machines, but if you need to ask, use these phrases:
🗣 「○○までの切符をください。」 (○○ made no kippu o kudasai.) – A ticket to ○○, please.
→ Replace ○○ with your destination, e.g., 「東京までの切符をください。」 (Tōkyō made no kippu o kudasai.) – A ticket to Tokyo, please.
🗣 「1日乗車券はありますか?」 (Ichinichi jōshaken wa arimasu ka?) – Do you have a one-day pass?
→ Useful in cities with unlimited ride day passes, like Kyoto or Osaka.
🗣 「この電車は新宿に行きますか?」 (Kono densha wa Shinjuku ni ikimasu ka?) – Does this train go to Shinjuku?
✔️ 「はい、行きます。」 (Hai, ikimasu.) – Yes, it does.
❌ 「いいえ、行きません。」 (Iie, ikimasen.) – No, it doesn’t.
💡 Tip: Many people use IC cards (Suica/Pasmo/ICOCA) for convenience. Just tap and go!
2. Asking for Directions
Lost? Ask a station worker or a kind stranger:
🗣 「○○駅はどこですか?」 (○○-eki wa doko desu ka?) – Where is ○○ Station?
→ Example: 「渋谷駅はどこですか?」 (Shibuya-eki wa doko desu ka?) – Where is Shibuya Station?
🗣 「ここから○○までどのくらいかかりますか?」 (Koko kara ○○ made dono kurai kakarimasu ka?) – How long does it take to get to ○○ from here?
💡 Tip: Use Google Maps for route guidance, but double-check schedules because some trains don’t run late at night.
3. Taking a Taxi
Most taxi drivers don’t speak English, so knowing a few phrases can be helpful.
🗣 「○○までお願いします。」 (○○ made onegaishimasu.) – Please take me to ○○.
→ Example: 「東京駅までお願いします。」 (Tōkyō-eki made onegaishimasu.) – Please take me to Tokyo Station.
🗣 「ここで止めてください。」 (Koko de tomete kudasai.) – Please stop here.
🗣 「クレジットカードは使えますか?」 (Kurejitto kādo wa tsukaemasu ka?) – Can I use a credit card?
→ Many taxis still prefer cash, so it’s good to ask.
💡 Tip: Many taxis now accept cashless payments (Suica, Pasmo, credit cards), but smaller companies might be cash-only.
4. Key Transportation Etiquette in Japan
No talking on the phone – Silence your phone and avoid talking loudly.
Queue properly – Stand in line when boarding trains and buses.
Priority seats – Give up your seat for the elderly, disabled, and pregnant passengers.
Exit quickly – Be ready to step off when the train arrives at your stop.
Using these basic Japanese phrases for travel, you’ll navigate Japan’s transportation system like a pro! Safe travels!
Basic Japanese Phrases for Travel: Your Ultimate Survival Guide
Emergency Phrases: Basic Japanese Phrases for Travel
Nobody wants to face an emergency while traveling, but being prepared is always a good idea. Whether you lose your passport, feel sick, or need help from the police, knowing a few basic Japanese phrases for travel can make a huge difference.
Japan is a very safe country, and people are generally helpful, but English might not always be understood in emergency situations. Here are some key phrases to use when you need urgent help.
1. Asking for Help
If you need immediate help, these phrases are essential:
🗣 「助けてください!」 (Tasukete kudasai!) – Help me!
→ Use this if you're in danger or need urgent assistance.
🗣 「英語を話せる人はいますか?」 (Eigo o hanaseru hito wa imasu ka?) – Is there someone who speaks English?
→ Useful if you need someone to translate.
🗣 「警察を呼んでください。」 (Keisatsu o yonde kudasai.) – Call the police, please.
→ In case of theft, trouble, or any crime-related issue.
🗣 「救急車を呼んでください。」 (Kyūkyūsha o yonde kudasai.) – Call an ambulance, please.
→ If someone is seriously injured or sick.
💡 Tip: Japan’s emergency number is 110 for police 🚔 and 119 for fire/ambulance 🚑.
- Tokyo English Lifeline (TELL) ☎️
→ 日本在住外国人向けの24時間対応の相談窓口(英語OK)。 - Japan Healthcare Info 🏥
→ 英語が通じる病院や薬局の検索ができる。
2. At the Police Station
If you need to report something to the police, use these phrases:
「スリにあいました。」 (Suri ni aimashita.) – I was pickpocketed.
「財布をなくしました。」 (Saifu o nakushimashita.) – I lost my wallet.
「パスポートをなくしました。」 (Pasupōto o nakushimashita.) – I lost my passport.
💡 Tip: If you lose your passport, go to the nearest police station (交番, kōban) and then contact your embassy.
3. At the Hospital or Pharmacy
If you feel unwell or need medicine, these phrases will help:
「具合が悪いです。」 (Guai ga warui desu.) – I feel sick.
「熱があります。」 (Netsu ga arimasu.) – I have a fever.
「お腹が痛いです。」 (Onaka ga itai desu.) – I have a stomachache.
「頭が痛いです。」 (Atama ga itai desu.) – I have a headache.
🗣 「英語が話せる医者はいますか?」 (Eigo ga hanaseru isha wa imasu ka?) – Is there a doctor who speaks English?
💡 Tip: Large hospitals in cities often have English-speaking doctors, but smaller clinics may not.
Stay Safe in Japan!
Japan is a very safe country, but emergencies can happen anywhere. With these basic Japanese phrases for travel, you’ll be better prepared to handle unexpected situations. Stay safe and enjoy your trip!
Bonus: Japanese Etiquette & Cultural Tips – Travel Like a Local!
Japan is famous for its rich culture and strong emphasis on etiquette. While Japanese people are very understanding towards tourists, knowing some basic Japanese phrases for travel and following local customs will make your trip even more enjoyable.
Here are some essential etiquette tips to help you avoid awkward moments and travel like a local!
1. Bowing Etiquette
In Japan, people bow instead of shaking hands. The deeper the bow, the more respect it shows.
🗣 「ありがとうございます。」 (Arigatou gozaimasu.) – Thank you.
💡 Tip: A slight bow when saying thank you is appreciated.
If someone bows to you, you don’t have to bow perfectly—just nod your head in return!
2. Taking Off Shoes Indoors
In Japan, you must remove your shoes in certain places:
Homes
Traditional inns (ryokan)
Some restaurants and temples
💡 Tip: If you see a step-up at the entrance, it’s a sign to take off your shoes.
3. Train Etiquette
No talking on the phone – Silence your phone and avoid loud conversations.
Wait in line – Japanese people queue in an orderly fashion.
Don’t eat or drink – Unlike in some countries, eating on local trains is considered rude.
🗣 「すみません、降ります。」 (Sumimasen, orimasu.) – Excuse me, I’m getting off.
💡 Tip: Bullet trains (Shinkansen) are the exception—eating is allowed!
4. Paying at Restaurants
- No tipping! Leaving tips can actually confuse restaurant staff.
- Pay at the counter instead of leaving money on the table.
- Use the tray when handing money to cashiers.
🗣 「お会計お願いします。」 (Okaikei onegaishimasu.) – The bill, please.
💡 Tip: Many restaurants have self-checkout machines now!
5. Public Trash Cans Are Rare!
Japan is incredibly clean, but one surprising thing for visitors is the lack of public trash cans. Unlike in many countries, you won’t find trash bins on every street corner.
Why? After past security incidents, many trash cans were removed for safety reasons. While this may feel inconvenient, it’s something Japanese people have accepted as part of daily life. Tourists are expected to follow the same rule.
💡 Tip: Convenience stores (konbini) usually have trash bins, but only for items purchased there. If you bought something elsewhere, don’t throw it away in a convenience store bin!
🚫 Never litter! Japan takes cleanliness seriously, and littering is strongly frowned upon. If you can’t find a bin, carry your trash with you until you find a proper place to dispose of it.
Even though it may be inconvenient, this rule helps keep Japan safe and clean, and visitors are expected to follow it just like locals.
6. Handling Cash & Credit Cards
Japan still relies heavily on cash. Many small shops and restaurants don’t accept credit cards.
🗣 「クレジットカードは使えますか?」 (Kurejitto kādo wa tsukaemasu ka?) – Can I use a credit card?
💡 Tip: Always carry some yen, especially in rural areas!
7. “No Foreigners” Signs – Why? (外国人お断りのお店について)
Some restaurants, especially small izakayas (Japanese pubs), may have signs saying "No Foreigners." This is usually due to:
❌ Language barriers
❌ Complicated ordering systems
❌ A desire to maintain a local atmosphere
8. Speaking English in Japan (日本で英語は通じる?)
While English is not widely spoken, people will try to help! If someone doesn’t understand you, try:
🗣 「簡単な日本語でお願いします。」 (Kantan na Nihongo de onegaishimasu.) – Please use simple Japanese.
🗣 「英語で大丈夫ですか?」 (Eigo de daijoubu desu ka?) – Is English okay?
💡 Tip: Using basic Japanese phrases for travel like "Sumimasen" (Excuse me) and "Arigatou" (Thank you) goes a long way!
Enjoy Your Trip with Confidence!
By following these etiquette tips and using basic Japanese phrases for travel, you’ll have a smooth and respectful experience in Japan. Locals appreciate when visitors make an effort, so don’t be shy—give it a try!
Summary: Master Basic Japanese Phrases for Travel & Enjoy Japan!
Traveling in Japan is an unforgettable experience, and while English is becoming more common, knowing some basic Japanese phrases for travel can make your trip smoother and more enjoyable.
This guide covered everything you need to communicate effectively in Japan, from greetings and ordering food to asking for directions and handling emergencies. Here’s a quick recap of the key points.
Key Takeaways from This Guide
- Basic Greetings & Polite Expressions – A simple "Arigatou" (ありがとう) or "Sumimasen" (すみません) can go a long way!
- At the Airport & Hotel – Learn how to check in, ask for Wi-Fi, and understand polite Japanese from hotel staff.
- Ordering at Restaurants – No need to stress! Simply saying "English menu?" or pointing at the menu works fine.
- Shopping & Asking for Prices – Always ask, "Kore wa ikura desu ka?" (これはいくらですか?) to check the price.
- Using Public Transportation – IC cards like Suica make travel easy, and trains run on time—don’t be late!
- Emergency Phrases – Know how to ask for help, call the police, or find a doctor who speaks English.
- Japanese Etiquette & Culture – Follow local customs like taking off your shoes indoors and respecting quiet zones.
- Bonus: Cheat Sheet & Learning Resources – Use Google Translate, download a phrasebook, and try simple Japanese!
By using these basic Japanese phrases for travel, you’ll gain confidence, have better interactions with locals, and truly enjoy the culture.
Final Travel Tips
Don’t worry about perfect Japanese – Short phrases, gestures, and a smile work wonders!
Download a translation app – Google Translate or Yomiwa can save the day.
Respect local customs – Be mindful of manners, queue properly, and don’t litter.
Have fun and explore! – Japan is welcoming to visitors, so enjoy the experience!
With this guide in hand, you’re ready to navigate Japan like a pro and make amazing memories!