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The Best Japanese Translation Apps For Japan Travel

Concerned about communicating in Japan? Make your travels in Japan as smooth and hassle-free as possible with a translation app. Discover the translation apps we’ve tested in real life and find out which ones actually work with our in-depth guide.

Six translation apps for Japan travel.

One of the most intimidating things about traveling somewhere new like Japan used to be language barriers – being unable to communicate your needs and wants to people, or indeed understand anything they were saying to you.

Fortunately, you won’t need to slip Douglas Adams’ small, yellow, leech-like Babel Fish into your ear to understand what anyone’s saying on your travels. Instead, you can use today’s modern equivalent on your smartphone to communicate with locals: a translation app.

In this guide, we show you some of the best translation apps out there for traveling in Japan. By ‘best’ we mean useful and practical – translation apps are never 100% accurate, but they’re fantastic for breaking down those language barriers.

This guide contains the following sections:

Japanese–English and English–Japanese Translation Apps for iPhones

  • What makes a useful travel app?
  • Test-driving translation apps for Japan travel – Text translation – Image translation – Voice translation

Final thoughts

Spoiler: It’s not 100% accurate, but out of all the apps I tested, Photo Translator performed best with handwritten menus.

There are quite literally hundreds of translation apps out there. The goal was to find useful, intuitive apps that non-Japanese speakers could use to communicate with locals, figure out what’s what, and generally get around. For this reason, I didn’t include grammar-focused Japanese-learning apps, ‘phrasebook’ apps, or dictionary apps.

I took six translation apps out into the Tokyo wilderness for a spin. These were downloaded from the App Store on an iPhone, though some of these will also be available on Android. I’ve noted wherever this is the case.

In no particular order, these are the apps I tested:

1. Google Translate

There are three main parts to this app: photo, voice, and text translation. Using this app, you point your phone camera at the text you want to read, and the optical character recognition (OCR) technology “reads” the text and displays the translation directly on your phone screen, displacing the original text. You can also type in English text that will be translated into Japanese (or other languages) and vice versa.

There’s also an option to speak into the phone’s inbuilt microphone. Google Translate records and renders your words into text, then produces a translation. This is then read out to you in the target language. Google Translate also works offline. It’s available on iOS and Android (but of course) and is free for use.

This app allows you to write or ‘draw’ kanji characters onto the screen. This does rely on some prior knowledge of Japanese, Chinese, or Korean characters. You are also able to hold the phone up to a given text or set of words and have Waygo render a translation. The app limits you to 10 free translations a day; beyond this, you’ll need to purchase the app. Available on iOS . There’s also an official website .

3. iTranslate

This app offers text, voice, and photo translation. While you can translate between English and Japanese, there are around 40 language pairs available. As a bonus, it works offline once you’ve downloaded the requisite language packs. I tested this with a free trial of the paid version. Available on iOS and Android .

Developed by Naver, this app does text, voice, and photo translation. It also allows you to have a simultaneous conversation in two languages using the app. You’ll be passing the phone back and forth between you and another person speaking a different language into the phone. PapaGo also translates between various Asian languages, including Korean, Vietnamese, Thai, and Chinese. If you’re traveling around Asia, you might want to check this out. You will need to be connected to the internet to use this app, but on the bright side, it’s free. Available on iOS and Android .

5. Japanese Translator Offline

In this app, you’ll type in the sentence you need and it spits out a Japanese rendering for you. You can also speak into the app. As the name suggests, you won’t need WiFi to use this. It’s a free app. At this point in time, to our knowledge, this is iOS only .

6. Photo Translator + +

This is the companion app to Japanese Translation, also by Evolly.app. You can either upload a photo with Japanese text from your camera library or take a photo of what you’re looking at, and it will give you a translation superimposed on top of the original text. This particular free app will require you to watch the occasional video ad (30 seconds at most, and usually about 10 seconds), but it’s a small price to pay. Available on iOS and Android .

A handwritten drinks menu I tried the apps on.

What makes a useful Japanese translation travel app?

The real test, of course, is;

  • a) how practical they are when you’re actually traveling around Japan
  • b) how useful they are for communicating
  • c) how easy and intuitive the apps themselves are to use. I’ve compared these apps by their respective functions.

These are a few of the criteria I considered when testing the apps:

Text translation:

  • If I typed in English sentences, would they be translated into accurate or understandable Japanese?
  • Similarly, if a native Japanese speaker typed in something, would the English rendering be accurate?

Image translation:

  • How good is the app at deciphering and capturing Japanese text?
  • Would the app be able to render this text into understandable English?
  • Could the app read handwritten menus and signs?

Voice translation:

  • How accurately can the app decipher English-language sentences spoken into the phone?
  • How accurate were the Japanese translations of our words?
  • Would this be as accurate for Japanese speakers?

Test-Driving Japanese Translation Apps for Japan Travel

Using Google Translate’s text input.

Text Translation

Google Translate has improved in leaps and bounds over the last few years, which is evident in the above-average quality of its translations. It does reasonably well with sentences a traveler might potentially ask. For the best results – and this is true of all the apps below – you want to communicate in simple sentences that leave no room for ambiguity.

In the same way, Japanese to English translations work best with uncomplicated sentences and concepts. You might not be having deep, philosophical conversations with another local – unless you’re willing to sit down for a good length of time – but you will at least find out where the nearest bathroom is.

Using iTranslate Pro’s text input.

iTranslate fared decently, though the translations that emerge aren’t always 100% correct. For instance, in the middle example, the word for “top up” is translated to “上げる” or “raise,” which doesn’t make any sense in Japanese. Contextually, someone might eventually understand it. If you receive a puzzled look in return when you show them a translated sentence, your intended meaning might have been lost in translation, so consider rephrasing.

Something else I noticed with iTranslate is that it does not always perform well with compound sentences. The third sentence above has two parts: defining ‘warabimochi’ and asking if it’s vegan. The translation that emerged only translated the first half of the sentence and not the second. This is something that can happen with translation apps generally, so you’ll want to keep your queries and statements short and simple.

Using Japanese Translator Offline.

As expected of an app specializing in Japanese–English translations, this performed well. The interface is clean and straightforward. The Japanese translations the app gives you are generally on the formal side, but that’s an observation rather than a complaint. It’s great for casual travelers. But, this is also a useful app for beginner to intermediate learners of Japanese, as you’ll see not only what you wanted translated, but also similar example sentences to reinforce your learning.

Additionally, it’s worth mentioning that Japanese Translator Offline is good at capturing sentences spoken into the app – I tested all the examples above by typing and speaking them in. It works well with Japanese-language input too.

Text translations for PapaGo.

Not only were they accurate, PapaGos’s Japanese translations of our text-based queries were some of the most natural-sounding out of all the apps we used. They won’t always be ‘formal’ but they sound like someone you might actually hear talking on the street, which is a nice bonus. The app itself is also easy to use, with colour-coded and easily understandable functions.

Image Translation

Reading text on a Dyson vacuum cleaner box with Google Translate.

I had high hopes for Google Translate’s much-feted Word Lens. I trained the phone camera on printed text on the side of a Dyson vacuum cleaner box to reasonably clear results. The translation wasn’t perfect – the first sentence is more accurately rendered as “Continuing to challenge even with repeated failures” – but the technology itself is impressive.

Four instances of using Google Translate in the wild.

Word Lens produces decent on-the-spot translations when you hover over clear, printed text. But you have mixed results in various real-life situations. The menu on the left is imperfectly translated, and the non-Japanese reader would be hard-pressed to order from it, though the app did its best with the vertical text.

The third example above (second to right) shows Word Lens trying to interpret a handwritten menu. In general, the app does not do well (yet) hovering over handwritten text regardless of legibility, so it’s not useful in many Japanese restaurants. It does better when you take a photo of something and use the app to read it from your library.

Still, if you just want to figure out what flavour of chocolate you’re buying from the convenience store (far right), Google Translate’s photo function doesn’t do too badly.

Using Waygo in the wild.

For all the praise it has received for its East Asia-specific character recognition, Waygo was surprisingly unhelpful when it came to practical use in Japan. It was able to read some printed text but not most things I trained the camera on, whether handwritten, printed, vertical, or horizontal.

More instances of using Waygo. From left to right: a sandwich board, a handwritten menu, a train ticket, and an entrance ticket to the Golden Pavilion.

In more cases than not, it was unable to detect any text or find any translations for the text I looked at. There was just one occasion where it managed to translate something accurately! The OCR technology just was not up to par with some of the other apps I tried out.

Waygo is purportedly useful for language learners in East Asia when it comes to identifying kanji characters, especially in China. But if you’re looking for a straightforward and intuitive translation app for Japan travel, Waygo isn’t it – especially not with just 10 free translations a day. Given the existence of other better apps out there, you can skip this.

Reading a handwritten sign. A rough translation is: “A request to customers. When it is busy and when you are queuing, please stand close to the person in front of you as much as possible. Please cooperate for queuing. Thank you.”

With PapaGo’s photo translation function, you point your phone camera at a scene or text that you want to read. Once you snap a photo, the app scans it for any text and highlights any Japanese text in white outlined box. You can then tap on each highlighted box to read what it says.

To its credit, PapaGo performs much better than Google Translate when it comes to deciphering handwritten text, even if what comes out is barely understandable or outright inaccurate. The middle translation is just on the mark; the second should read “please cooperate and queue.”

More instances of using PapaGo in the wild.

The left translation should have read “mutton keema” towards the end, and 温玉 is an onsen egg rather than a “hot ball” – but it’s possible to at least get an idea of what’s on the menu, even if it’s written on a chalkboard in vertical text.

Also, ‘salmon-bashing warship’ is a direct translation of what’s written there, even if it actually refers to gunkan-style sushi with chopped salmon.

iTranslate’s results are a mixed bag when it comes to image translations.

Out of all the apps here, iTranslate proved the least useful for image translations. Sometimes it wouldn’t be able to detect any printed text in the image, and when it did, it wasn’t the most pleasant to read. If you tried to move the borders of the white box on the screen, your translation would disappear. It’s not the most intuitive app around.

Reading a drinks menu – it’s not half bad.

Photo Translator was the surprise winner in the battle of photo translation here. You won’t go thirsty with the drinks menu in front of you, for one thing. It helps to first take a photo of what you want to decipher and upload it to the app from your library.

Translating the entrance ticket to the Temple of the Golden Pavilion.

I wasn’t seriously expecting the app to be able to read the ticket you receive from the Temple of the Golden Pavilion in Kyoto. The translation that came out wasn’t really accurate, but it does give you a sense of what’s on the ticket.

Reading gas bills and information from TEPCO.

In general, though, this app out-performed even Google Translate when it came to reading and translating more complex texts. If you ever have to read longer printed sentences in Japanese, this is the app to use.

Voice Translation

Testing Google Translate’s voice recognition software.

Google Translate’s voice recognition is surprisingly good. It picks up English sentences accurately as long as you speak quite clearly, and the resulting translations are fine. It worked with a Malaysian accent, too.

Testing simple sentences with PapaGo.

PapaGo’s voice recognition also works well for simple English sentences that a traveler might ask about directions and food allergies. Though it ultimately doesn’t make too much difference, PapaGo’s Japanese (female) voice rings clear and cheerful. Coupled with the bright green background and large, clear text, the app is just that much more fun to use than the others mentioned here.

A number of sentence tests with JTO.

Japanese Translator Offline managed to capture all the sentences above into the microphone on the first go – I liked this app a lot. While not pictured, it also performs admirably for Japanese-language input.

Testing both English and Japanese-language voice recognition.

iTranslate works fine in English in most cases, though the Japanese-language input leaves a little bit to be desired. (The sentences should have captured and translated: “Sorry, everything contains dashi” and “Sorry, we can’t remove the dashi.”) The onus will be on the Japanese local to get this right, however!

Comparing voice recognition software on three apps.

I did a comparison of the same phrase across three of the apps above. They produced accurate if slightly different translations. In this case, PapaGo’s rendering was the most natural, using Japanese that the average speaker would most likely use. However, all of them get the point across.

Trying to ask for directions to the inn.

What is so far true across all the apps I tested, though, is that they’re not great at picking up Japanese words mixed in with English sentences. ‘Ryokan,’ which refers to a Japanese-style inn, proved to be a good test for the voice recognition function – it’s not easy for non-Japanese speakers to pronounce accurately.

The first three sentences from PapaGo above resulted from attempts to ask for directions to the ryokan – “real kind” was possibly the closest it came. Saying it in Japanese, on the other hand, produced perfectly understandable results.

Asking for directions to the inn.

This was also true of Google Translate’s voice recognition, though it outperforms PapaGo in these terms if you’re willing to try a few times. It took several attempts for it to understand that I was saying ‘ryokan’ instead of ‘dokkan,’ ‘Yukon,’ ‘know you can,’ and other variants.

Testing out Japanese words mixed into English sentences.

I also asked a friend to say some sentences with Japanese words mixed in to the English. To wit, the original sentences spoken into PapaGo above were:

  • 1) I need a bowl of sukiyaki (beef and vegetables cooked in soy, sugar, and sake)
  • 2) Where is the kissaten (a retro Japanese-style cafe)
  • 3) I would like the tempura please.

Asking for directions to Meiji-jingumae Station.

When it came to asking for directions to Meiji-jingumae Station, only Google Translate managed to pick up something approximate. The rest of the apps didn’t quite pan out. (One of the attempts with Japanese Translator Offline came out with the chuckle-inducing “which way to make you think of my station.”)

Why should this be the case? The short answer is that the technology for machines to recognize several languages in a single sentence just hasn’t reached the point where it can displace multilingual humans. (On the bright side, it means that interpreters won’t be out of a job just yet.)

What this means for an app user: for best results, speak clearly, in simple English-only sentences with key words that communicate exactly what you’re trying to say. If you have place names or particular words in Japanese you want to say, a typed translation is likely to give you better results than a spoken one.

Japanese-only menus become a great deal more approachable with translation apps – up to a point.

Is there a particular app I would recommend? As you can see, each had their strengths and weaknesses. None of them were 100% accurate – they all had their fair share of funny errors and misunderstandings. But, outside of Waygo, most of the apps on this list performed quite well. Most of them were available for offline use, but they worked best when the phone was connected to WiFi. Choosing one will boil down to personal preference: whether you like the interface, what you’re using it for, and whether it gets the job done for you.

If you wanted to choose just one app for traveling in Japan, PapaGo would be a decent contender. It’s the most natural-sounding out of all the apps above – and the voice issuing from the app actually sounds quite friendly – so it’s useful for communicating with locals. It also fared reasonably well in practical situations like reading menus and deciphering signs. The only real downside is that you’d need to have pocket WiFi to use this app on the ground.

If you’d rather speak into the phone than type your text in, Google Translate probably has the edge on the other apps, but only by a slight margin. PapaGo and Japanese Translation also perform well when it comes to voice translation.

For better-than-average translations, Japanese Translation is a good choice, especially for anyone who’s actually learning Japanese. As I’ve shown above, the app gives you not just a translation but also related examples existing in its database. The accompanying Photo Translator app by the same company (Evolly) is great for image translations, especially if you want to understand entire paragraphs in a single go – for example, to read printed signboards for an artifact or attraction.

Bear in mind that these translation apps are technologies in flux. A few years ago, machine translation wasn’t capable of producing translations that made any sense; they’ve now reached the point where they’ve begun to be more useful out in the field. I expect that all of the apps above will continue to improve with time.

So, download a couple of them for your travels in Japan and have fun with them. The most important thing with these translation apps to actually use them in the wild. Any of these will make communicating with people that much easier, and as a bonus, you might end up with a few hilarious gaffes and stories at the end of it.

About the author: Florentyna Leow is a writer and photographer based in Tokyo. When she’s not eating or roaming the streets for food, she can be found with a book and pen in hand. Her work has appeared in Lucky Peach, Roads & Kingdoms, and Kyoto Journal. Her newsletter can be found here and her photographs can be found at @furochan_eats , @doorwaysofasia , and @lovemeleafme on Instagram.

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  • Compare Japan flight prices and timings to find the best deals
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Japanese Phrases for Tourists: 116 Essential Phrases for Your Japanese Vacation

Before I traveled to Japan for the first time, everyone assured me that “Everybody speaks English there,” and I wouldn’t need to use Japanese at all.

But in reality, most of the people I encountered in Japan had a fairly elementary level of spoken English .

For a better travel experience, you should learn some basic travel words and phrases in Japanese.

Greetings and Basic Japanese Phrases

Airport phrases you’ll hear, airport phrases you’ll use, asking for directions, receiving directions, transportation phrases, hotel phrases, eating and drinking in japan: what you’ll hear, eating and drinking in japan: what you’ll say, shopping in japan: phrases you’ll hear, shopping phrases you’ll use, number of items in japanese, tips to use your new phrases: politeness and pronunciation, how to study these japanese travel phrases.

Download: This blog post is available as a convenient and portable PDF that you can take anywhere. Click here to get a copy. (Download)

Businessman,Shaking,Hands

I’ll provide the hiragana, kanji and romaji for each word, and will explain the use of certain Japanese phrases for tourists in context.

1. Hello — konnichiwa

2. good morning — ohayou gozaimasu, 3. nice to meet you — hajimemashite, 4. goodbye — sayounara, 5. please — onegaishimasu, 6. thank yo u — arigatou gozaimasu, 7. you’re welcome — dou itashimashite, 8. excuse me/sorry — sumimasen.

This is definitely one to memorize. I say すみません at least 30 times a day in Japan. It’s a magical word.

It helps you push through a crowd, get attention from a waiter, ask for directions or be excused for basically any touristy blunder.

Simply saying すみません and gesturing is a pretty good way to express that you need help, but don’t speak Japanese.

9. Yes — hai

10. no — iie, 11. let’s eat/ “bon appetit” — itadakimasu .

Similar to the French “ bon appetit” , this is what Japanese people say before they eat. It doesn’t have a literal translation in English, but it’s a way to give thanks for a meal .

You should also remember this phrase’s pair: ごちそうさま (gochisousama) or ごちそうさまでした (gochisousama deshita). These phrases are used at the end of a meal and translate as “What a good meal,” or “Thank you for the meal,” the latter being the more polite form.

12. I don’t understand — wakarimasen 

13. i don’t speak japanese —   nihongo o hanashimasen, 14. do you speak english — eigo o hanashimasu ka , 15. can you please repeat that — mou ichido itte kudasai, 16. can you please speak slowly — yukkuri hanashite kudasai, 17. what is your name — onamae wa nan desu ka, 18. my name is… — watashi no namae wa…, 19. what is this — kore wa nan desu ka.

これ and それ literally just mean “this” and “that.”

20. How much does this cost? — kore wa ikura desu ka? 

If you’re pointing at something that you can’t reach, you say それは いくらですか?

21. Can you please help me? — tasukete moraemasuka ?

japan-airlines-plane-on-runway

Japanese airports aren’t just places to land: they’re an entire cultural showcase on their own. For example, at the Narita Airport , you’ll see pet hotels , gacha machines , the (in)famous smart toilets and even a Pokémon Store !

22. Welcome, please come in — yokoso, o-hairi kudasai

23. please show your ticket — chiketto o misete kudasai, 24. please show your passport — pasupooto o misete kudasai, 25. what is your reservation name — yoyaku-mei wa nan desu ka, 26. the flight is delayed — furaito chien shiteimasu, 27. the flight has been canceled — furaito kyanseru saremashita, 28. baggage claim is this way — baggeji kureimu wa kochira desu, 29. we have arrived at … airport — … kuko ni tochaku shimashita, 30. we will depart for … airport — … kuko e shuppatsu shimasu, 31. there is a delay in the flight — furaito ni okure ga arimasu, 32. there are restrictions on carry-on baggage — kinai mochikomi no nimotsu niwa seigen ga arimasu.

red-passport-tucked-into-baggage-handle

33. Please tell me how to get to the airport — kuko e no ikikata o oshiete kudasai

34. is this a departure flight — korewa shuppatsu-bin desu ka, 35. is this an arrival flight — korewa tochaku-bin desu ka, 36. where is the boarding gate — tojyo-guchi wa doko desu ka, 37. i’ll check my baggage — tenimotsu azukemasu, 38. please call a taxi — takushii o yonde kudasai, 39. i’d like to rent a car — rentakaa o karitai desu, 40. where is the gate for the connecting flight — noritsugi-bin no geeto wa doko desu ka.

shoes-on-three-white-arrows-pointing-left-center-and-right

Asking for directions is sort of daunting, especially when the person answers in a whole stream of fast-paced Japanese.

But you’ll find that Japan is one of the best places to be a lost and hopeless tourist. There’s always someone nearby who’s more than happy to help. I’ve even had people take time out of their days to walk me where I needed to go!

Simply say wherever it is that you want to go followed by どこですか? — doko desu ka? (Where is …?).

41. I want to go… (here) — (koko) ni ikitai desu 

Say ここ if you have an address written down or a point marked on a map of where you want to go.

If you know the name or address of the place where you want to go, simply say the place name followed by に行きたいです . For example, if you want to go to Shinjuku station, you simply say 新宿駅に行きたいです   — Shinjuku eki ni ikitai desu . (I want to go to Shinjuku station.)

42. Where is the…? — …wa doko desu ka?

43. can you please show me where we are on the map — watashitachi ga doko ni iru no ka, chizu de oshiete kudasai.

This might seem like an odd question (and a bit of a mouthful), but it can be a lot more helpful than asking for directions from someone who doesn’t know English.

44. Is it near? — chikai desu ka?

45. is it far — tooi desu ka.

white-arrow-pointing-right-set-against-blue-circle-circumscribed-with-white-lines-against-blue-background

46. Go straight ahead — massugu itte kudasai 

47. turn left — hidari ni magatte kudasai, 48. turn right — migi ni magatte kudasai.

High,Speed,Train,In,Motion,On,The,Railway,Station

In Japan, public transportation is how most people get around. If you’re not used to taking the bus, train or anything similar, better keep the following phrases handy!

49. Take me to this address, please — kono jyusho made tsureteitte kudasai

50. what is the fare — ryoukin wa ikura desu ka, 51. stop here, please — koko de tomatte kudasai, 52. does this bus go to (street name) — kono basu wa … ni ikimasu ka, 53. does that train stop at … — sono denshya wa … de tomarimasu ka, 54. a map, please — chizu o onegai shimasu, 55. this hotel — k ono hoteru, 56. the subway — chikatetsu , 57. the train station — denshya no eki, 58. the bus stop  — basutei, 59. the taxi stand — takushii noriba, 60. the exit — deguchi, 61. the entrance — iriguchi, 62. the bathroom — toire.

white-bed-and-pillows-in-hotel-room

Like other service-oriented businesses in the country, Japanese hotels subscribe to the concept of omotenashi , which roughly translates to pouring your whole heart into service. That means you can expect employees at Japanese hotels to go above and beyond when it comes to making you feel welcome.

63. I have a reservation under the name of … — … no yoyaku o shiteimasu

64. i would like to check-in — chekkuin shitai desu, 65. what time is check-in — chekkuin wa nanji desu ka, 66. is breakfast included — choshoku wa fukumareteimasu ka, 67. where is my room — watashi no heya wa doko desu ka, 68. please give me a wake-up call at …  — … ni weikuappu kooru onegaishimasu., 69. where is the nearest convenience store — ichiban chikai konbini wa doko desu ka, 70. can you recommend a good restaurant nearby — chikaku no oishii resutoran o shokaishite moraemasu  ka, 71. what time is check-out — chekkuauto no jikan wa nanji desu ka, 72. where can i store my luggage — nimotsu wa dokoni azukeraremasu ka, 73. is there wi-fi in the hotel — hoteru ni wa wai-fai ga arimasu ka, 74. where is the nearest atm — ichi-ban chikai atm wa doko desu ka, 75. i’d like to have some extra towels, please — yobun no taoru o kudasai., 76. what time is breakfast served — choshoku wa nanji kara desu ka, 77. excuse me, i need an iron and ironing board — sumimasen, airon to iron-dai ga hitsuyo desu..

Traditional,Japanese,Machiya,House,Or,Ryokan,Restaurant,With,Black,Lacquered

Like Japanese hotels, Japanese restaurants also practice omotenashi. Here are some of the more common phrases you’ll hear from Japanese restaurant staff.

78. Welcome — Irasshaimase

79. how many people in your party — nan mei sama desu ka, 80. this way, please — kochira e douzo, 81. certainly (in response to your order) — kashikomarimashita, 82. thank you for waiting — omatase itashimashita.

Beef,Sliced,On,Topped,Rice,(gyuu-don),-,Japanese,Food,Style

The best restaurants in Japan are the authentic ones that don’t cater to tourists. But these are also the places that have no English menus, and sometimes no English-speaking waitstaff.

Luckily, it’s very common for Japanese menus to feature photos of all the dishes. And many places have models of their dishes on display, so you likely won’t be going in completely blind.

Use these phrases , and you should be in and out of a restaurant without too many hiccups.

83. A table for two, please —  futari you no teeburu o onegai shimasu

You can also replace futari with the number of people who you need to have seated:

  • one — hitori ( 一人 )
  • three — sannin ( 三人 )
  • four — yonin ( 四人 )

If you’re confused about Japanese numbers and counters, don’t despair. You can just do as the locals do and indicate the number of diners by holding up your fingers.

84. The menu, please — menyu o onegai shimasu

85. what are today’s recommendations — kyo no osusume wa.

If everything on the menu looks appetizing and you’re not quite sure what to order, use this phrase.

86. Water, please — mizu o onegai shimasu

87. two beers, please — biiru o nihai onegai shimasu, 88. can i please have (one, two) of this — kore o (hitotsu, futatsu) onegai でdekimasu, 89. do you have a vegetarian dish — bejitarian youno ryouri ga arimasu ka.

I’ve traveled in Japan with vegetarians twice, and this question usually draws quite strange looks. Vegetarianism basically doesn’t exist in Japan, although Japanese cuisine is generally quite vegetarian-friendly.

It might work better to say これは肉ですか? — kore wa niku desu ka? , to say “is this meat?” Follow up with 私は肉を食べません — watashi wa niku o tabemasen,  which means “I don’t eat meat,” if you want to make yourself understood.

90. Is … in it? — … wa haitte imasu ka?

Alternatively, you can also ask if specific ingredients are included in your food, so you’ll know whether you should order it or not.

91. That’s okay — daijyoubu desu

You can also use this expression to ask someone if they’re okay. Just add the question particle  ka to the end: 大丈夫ですか ? — daijyoubu desu ka? 

92. The check, please — okanjyou o onegai shimasu 

Say the above, or you can do as the locals do and catch the waiter’s eye (with a smile!) and draw a clockwise circle in the air with your index finger pointing towards the roof.

In some restaurants, you need to bring the check to the cash register which is usually located by the restaurant’s doorway.

93. Cheers! — kanpai!

94. it was delicious — oishikatta desu, 95. water — mizu, 96. wine — wain, 97. beer — biiru , 98. tea — ochya, 99. coffee — coohii, 100. juice — juusu, 101. meat — niku, 102. chicken — toriniku , 103. pork — butaniku, 104. beef  — gyuniku , 105. fish — sakana , 106. rice — gohan, 107. bread — pan , 108. vegetables — yasai  , 109. fruit — kudamono.

white-maneki-neko-beckoning-to-shopper

When you’re met with cries of いらっしゃいませ!, you’re not really expected to respond to this greeting. As for me, I just smile and say こんにちは which means, of course, “hello.”

Walking into a department store is particularly surreal, with each assistant taking cues from the others, so that every time a customer walks in, いらっしゃいませ bounces around the entire floor.

110. Are you looking for something? — nani ka osagashi desu ka?

111. is that all — ijyou de yoroshii desu ka, 112. here it is / here you go — hai, douzo.

woman-holding-pink-blue-and-green-shopping-bags-on-her-shoulder-and-behind-her-back

113. I would like this — kore o onegai shimasu

114. i would like one of those — sore o hitotsu onegai shimasu, 115. i would like to pay in cash  — genkin de onegai shimasu, 116. i would like to pay by credit card — kurejitto kaado de onegai shimasu.

The only real challenge with ordering meals in Japanese is the use of counters.

We have counters in English, too (for example “sheets” of paper, “glasses” of water, “blades” of grass), but not as many or as complicated as in Japanese.

Luckily Japanese has a “universal” counter, つ ( tsu ), which you can use for anything, including food.

The numbers one to four as つ counters are pronounced 一つ ( hitotsu )、 二つ ( futatsu )、 三つ ( mittsu ) and 四つ ( yottsu ). You can use this counter for drinks too, and the waiter will understand you.

However, if you want to be a little more impressive, you can use the drinks counter: 杯 ( hai/bai/pai depending on the number used with it). The numbers one to four using this counter are 一杯 ( ippai )、 二杯 ( nihai ) 、 三杯 ( sanbai ) and 四杯 ( yonhai ).

If you want to learn more about counters, this post explains them  in more detail.

All the examples I’ve given are in the polite, neutral form of speech . You basically can’t go wrong speaking this way in Japan, so you don’t need to worry about making any social faux pas!

Some notes on pronunciation:

  • Avoid turning vowels into dipthongs (vowel sounds that run into each other, like the oi in “coin”). Pronounce each vowel on its own even when there are two vowels next to each other. Onegai is read as “o-ne-ga-i,” not “o-ne-gai”
  • The sound  ou and repeated vowels like ii and  ee are exceptions: they show an elongation of the sound.  Ohayou is read as “o-ha-yoh,” not “o-ha-yo-u.”
  • Treat ん (n)  as its own syllable.   Konnichiwa is read “ko-n-ni-chi-wa,” not “ko-ni-chi-wa.” It’s subtle, but it makes a difference!
  • Repeated consonants are pronounced. For an example of how to do this, just read the word “bookkeeper” out loud.
  • The small kana っ like in いって signify a break between the sounds —”it-te,” not “i-te.”
  • Small y- kana like ゃ in おちゃ add the  y sound to the preceding syllable —”o-chya,” not “o-chi-a.”
  • は (ha)  as a particle is pronounced wa,  and を (wo)  as a particle is pronounced  o.

The beauty of Japanese is that it’s an extremely phonetic language, so if you say the words exactly as you read them, you can’t really get them wrong.

Having said that, people will probably struggle to understand you if you speak in a strong non-Japanese accent, so it might pay to listen to some spoken Japanese before you start practicing pronunciation.

The most important thing to remember is that, unlike English speakers, Japanese speakers don’t put emphasis on the second or third syllable of a word—there’s some emphasis on the first syllable, but it’s subtle.

Some ways that you can listen to Japanese being spoken is by watching Japanese films , television programs , anime or YouTube clips .

The Japanese language program FluentU has a little bit of everything in the media, with interactive subtitles and customizable flashcards for a well-rounded learning experience.

Maybe this seems like a lot, but learning Japanese travel phrases for tourists will make your trip run more smoothly, and the people you meet will appreciate your effort.

Speaking the local language tends to get people on your side. They’re less likely to try to rip you off, and often will want to become your best friend.

I like to make little phrasebooks for myself when I travel, so I can have these Japanese travel phrases and vocabulary always on hand.

I’ve been treated to tea and dinner in people’s homes, and once was driven around a city with a personal guide/impromptu friend all day, just because I struck up conversations in the local language.

Don’t be scared! Give it a try!

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travel japanese translation

Japanese Board

Master the Basics: How to Say Travel in Japanese

If you’re planning a trip to Japan or simply interested in learning the language, it’s essential to master the basics of how to say travel in Japanese . In this section, we will explore the various ways to express the term “travel” in Japanese, including the Japanese word for travel and common travel phrases.

Understanding these terms will not only help you communicate effectively when discussing travel-related topics, but also allow you to dive deeper into the language and culture of Japan. So, let’s get started on learning how to say travel in Japanese !

How to Express the Concept of Travel in Japanese

When it comes to expressing the concept of travel in Japanese, there are several ways to do so depending on the situation. One way to say “travel” in Japanese is to use the word 旅 (tabi), which means “journey” or “trip”. This word can be used in various contexts, such as when talking about a personal trip or a business trip.

Another commonly used term is 旅行 (ryokou), which specifically refers to a trip or journey for leisure or vacation purposes. This term is often used when discussing travel plans or destinations.

Other Ways to Express Travel in Japanese

There are several other phrases in Japanese that can be used to convey the concept of travel. For example, you can use the phrase 出張 (shucchou) to refer to a business trip, or 旅先 (tabisaki) to refer to a travel destination.

Additionally, you can use the phrase 移動する (idou suru) to describe the act of moving from one place to another, which can include travel-related activities such as taking a train or bus.

Using Context to Determine the Best Word or Phrase

When choosing which word or phrase to use to express travel in Japanese, it’s important to consider the context in which it will be used. For example, if you are discussing your travel plans with someone, it may be more appropriate to use the term 旅行 (ryokou) to convey your leisurely trip, rather than the more general term 旅 (tabi).

Similarly, if you are discussing a work-related trip, using the term 出張 (shucchou) may be more appropriate than using the word 旅 (tabi).

Overall, being aware of the various ways to express travel in Japanese will help you communicate effectively when discussing travel-related topics in Japanese.

Common Words and Phrases for Travel in Japanese

When traveling in Japan, it’s important to have a basic understanding of the language. Here are some common words and phrases related to travel in Japanese:

Transportation

Destinations.

Learning these words and phrases will help you communicate with locals and navigate through your travels in Japan.

Essential Travel Vocabulary in Japanese

Expanding your vocabulary with essential travel-related words and expressions in Japanese is crucial for having a smooth travel experience. Here are some of the essential travel vocabulary words and phrases you need to know:

Knowing these essential travel vocabulary words and phrases in Japanese will not only help you communicate with locals but also make your travel experience in Japan smoother and more enjoyable.

Useful Travel Phrases in Japanese

As you travel through Japan, it’s important to be able to communicate with the locals. Here are some useful travel phrases in Japanese that will make your journey more enjoyable:

Remember to use these phrases with appropriate manners, such as adding “san” after the person’s name when addressing them.

By familiarizing yourself with these useful travel phrases in Japanese, you’ll be able to navigate through your journey with greater ease and confidence.

Congratulations on mastering the basics of how to say travel in Japanese! By understanding the different ways to express travel in Japanese, you have equipped yourself with essential tools for communicating effectively during travel-related conversations.

Remember to also explore common words and phrases related to travel in Japanese, and expand your vocabulary with essential travel-related words and expressions. Using useful travel phrases in Japanese will help you communicate with locals and make your travel experience more enjoyable.

Learning the Japanese word for travel and how to express travel in Japanese is not only useful but also enriching for anyone interested in the language and culture of Japan. Use your newly acquired skills to open doors to meaningful conversations and deeper connections during your travels in Japan.

Q: How do I say “travel” in Japanese?

A: The word for “travel” in Japanese is “ryokō” (旅行).

Q: What are some other ways to express the concept of travel in Japanese?

A: Besides “ryokō” (旅行), you can also use the term “tabi” (旅) to refer to a journey or trip. Additionally, “kōtsū” (交通) can be used to talk about transportation related to travel.

Q: What are some common words and phrases related to travel in Japanese?

A: Some common words and phrases include “eki” (駅) for train station, “ryokan” (旅館) for a traditional Japanese inn, and “tabemono” (食べ物) for food. Additionally, “kankō” (観光) is used to refer to sightseeing.

Q: Can you provide me with some essential travel vocabulary in Japanese?

A: Sure! Here are a few essential travel-related words and expressions: “hoteru” (ホテル) for hotel, “takushī” (タクシー) for taxi, “kōen” (公園) for park, “michi” (道) for road, and “kiken” (危険) for danger.

Q: What are some useful travel phrases in Japanese?

A: Here are a few useful phrases to use while traveling in Japan: “Sumimasen, [place] e ikimasu ka?” (すみません、[place]へ行きますか?) which means “Excuse me, does this go to [place]?” and “Eigo o hanasemasu ka?” (英語を話せますか?) which means “Do you speak English?”

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travel japanese translation

How to Say ‘I’m Traveling’ and Talk About Travel in Japanese**

Traveling is a wonderful way to explore new places, cultures, and experiences. When discussing travel in Japanese, you can enhance your interactions and connect with others who share a passion for exploration. In this guide, we’ll delve into how to say “I’m traveling” and engage in conversations about travel in the Japanese language.

**I’m Traveling:**

1. **旅行しています (Ryokou shiteimasu):**

   To express “I’m traveling,” use the phrase “旅行しています.” This straightforward phrase conveys your current journey and sense of adventure.

2. **出張中です (Shucchou-chuu desu):**

   If you’re on a business trip, say “出張中です,” which means “I’m on a business trip.” This phrase differentiates between leisure travel and work-related travel.

**Discussing Travel:**

1. **旅行の計画を立てています (Ryokou no keikaku o tateteimasu):**

   To discuss travel plans, use this phrase, which means “I’m making travel plans.” It’s a great way to initiate conversations about your upcoming adventures.

2. **新しい場所を探索しています (Atarashii basho o sousaku shiteimasu):**

   When talking about exploring new places, say “I’m exploring new locations.” This phrase captures the essence of discovery during your travels.

3. **異文化を体験しています (Ibunka o taiken shiteimasu):**

   If you’re experiencing different cultures, use this phrase, which means “I’m experiencing different cultures.” It reflects the enriching aspect of travel.

4. **観光名所を巡っています (Kankou meisho o megutteimasu):**

   When discussing visiting tourist attractions, say “I’m touring tourist spots.” It’s a way to share your sightseeing adventures.

5. **地元の食事を楽しんでいます (Jimoto no shokuji o tanoshindeimasu):**

   To talk about enjoying local cuisine, use this phrase, which means “I’m enjoying local meals.” It’s perfect for conversations about culinary experiences.

**Sharing Travel Experiences:**

1. **美しい景色を見つけました (Utsukushii keshiki o mitsukemashita):**

   Share your awe by saying “I found beautiful scenery.” It’s a way to express your admiration for the picturesque views you encountered.

2. **素敵な人々と出会いました (Suteki na hitobito to deaimashita):**

   To talk about meeting wonderful people, say “I met lovely individuals.” This phrase emphasizes the social aspect of travel.

3. **貴重な体験をしています (Kichou na taiken o shiteimasu):**

   Express that you’re having valuable experiences by saying “I’m having precious experiences.” This phrase underscores the transformative nature of travel.

**Asking About Travel:**

1. **どこに行っていますか? (Doko ni itteimasu ka?):**

   To ask “Where are you going?” use this question. It’s a common way to inquire about someone’s travel destination.

2. **旅行は好きですか? (Ryokou wa suki desu ka?):**

   To ask “Do you like to travel?” use this question. It’s a way to initiate a conversation about someone’s travel preferences.

3. **どんなところがお気に入りですか? (Donna tokoro ga okiniiri desu ka?):**

   To ask about favorite places, say “What places do you like?” This question can lead to discussions about preferred travel destinations.

**Discussing Travel Plans:**

1. **次はどこに行く予定ですか? (Tsugi wa doko ni iku yotei desu ka?):**

   To ask about someone’s upcoming travel plans, use this question, which means “Where are you planning to go next?”

2. **休暇にどこかへ行くつもりです (Kyuuka ni dokoka e iku tsumori desu):**

   If you’re planning to go somewhere for vacation, say “I plan to go somewhere for vacation.” This phrase indicates your holiday intentions.

3. **友達と旅行する予定です (Tomodachi to ryokou suru yotei desu):**

   If you’re planning to travel with friends, use this phrase, which means “I plan to travel with friends.” It reflects your social travel plans.

**Sharing Travel Tips:**

1. **現地の言葉を学ぶと便利ですよ (Genchi no kotoba o manabu to benri desu yo):**

   Offer a travel tip by saying “It’s useful to learn the local language.” This advice can enhance communication during your travels.

2. **旅行前に気候を調べておくといいです

 (Ryokou mae ni kikou o shirabete oku to ii desu):**

   Suggest researching the climate before traveling by saying “It’s a good idea to check the weather before traveling.” This tip helps with packing appropriately.

3. **地元の食事を試してみることをお勧めします (Jimoto no shokuji o tameshite miru koto o osusume shimasu):**

   Recommend trying local cuisine by saying “I recommend trying local meals.” This suggestion encourages immersive cultural experiences.

In conclusion, discussing travel in Japanese involves a variety of phrases and expressions that allow you to convey your travel plans, share experiences, ask about others’ adventures, and provide valuable tips. Traveling is a universal language that opens doors to new experiences and connections. Whether you’re exploring historical sites, enjoying culinary delights, or immersing yourself in different cultures, using these phrases will help you engage in meaningful conversations about your journeys.

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I'm Krisada, the creator of JLPT TUTOR. I created this site to share the path of my Japanese learning That I achieved my JLPT N1. You may struggle with Kanji , Grammar , Listening, reading and fail again and again. I know how you feel when you see "Not Pass" I want to share what I learnt in this past through this website. Hope you enjoy

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What is the translation of "travel" in Japanese?

"travel" in japanese, travel {vb}, travel {noun}, traveler {noun}, traveling {noun}, traveller {noun}, translations, travel [ traveled; travelled|traveled; travelled ] {verb}.

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Context sentences

English japanese contextual examples of "travel" in japanese.

These sentences come from external sources and may not be accurate. bab.la is not responsible for their content.

Monolingual examples

English how to use "travel" in a sentence, english how to use "traveler" in a sentence, english how to use "traveling" in a sentence, english how to use "traveller" in a sentence, synonyms (english) for "travel":.

  • change of location
  • move around
  • trash collector
  • trashy reputation
  • traumatic epilepsy
  • traumatic experience
  • traumatic neurosis
  • traumatology
  • travel about
  • travel agency
  • travel agent
  • travel all over
  • travel allowance
  • travel allowance paid to salaried sumo wrestlers for tournaments held outside Tokyo
  • travel bureau
  • travel clothes
  • travel diary

More translations in the French-English dictionary .

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Basic Travel Phrases in Japanese (with Etiquette)

Lorena Macedo

Irasshaimase! (いらっしゃいませ), or "welcome!" to your guide to Japanese travel phrases.

If you're planning a trip to Japan or simply interested in learning Japanese , this guide to using and understanding Japanese travel phrases is a must-read.

You don't need to learn the entire language before you make the trip of a lifetime. Still, knowing some key phrases, cultural differences and mannerisms will make Japan more accessible for English speakers.

Related: Saying Hello in Japanese: Pronouncing Japanese Greetings

First, we'll discuss the Japanese language and writing styles. Then, we'll cover some essential Japanese travel phrases, including "please", "thank you", "excuse me" and "I don't understand Japanese". Formality in Japanese will be explained, followed by restaurant vocabulary and etiquette.

Next, we'll cover certain phrases related to transport and travel, followed by pronunciation tips for common phrases used in Japan. Finally, we will answer frequently asked questions about Japanese phrases and travel to Japan.

The Japanese Language

Japanese words can be written in symbols or in Romanized characters, so beginners can still read and write before they learn the Japanese script.

However, when you learn Japanese characters you can better understand the nuances of the language.

Kanji are Chinese characters taken from the Chinese script and used in Japanese writing. This writing system was introduced to Japan in the 4th or 5th century, as Japan had a talking system but no means to write it down. Kanji are complex symbols that represent words or ideas.

However, Kanji characters are used along with the more recently created syllabic scripts of Hiragana and Katakana, which represent sounds.

Some people find these scripts easier to read as the symbols are simpler. Hiragana is generally used to represent Japanese words, while Katakana represents foreign words imported into the Japanese language.

While it is possible to write everything in Hiragana or Katakana, i t w o u l d l o o k l i k e t h i s . So, it is better to replace words with Kanji when possible. Japanese people use the three scripts interchangeably, as they are needed.

travel japanese translation

10 Essential Japanese Phrases

  • Konnichiwa (こんにちは) – Hello/ good afternoon
  • Ohayo Gozaimasu (おはよう ご ざ い ます) - Good morning
  • Konbanwa (こんばんは) - Good evening This phrase is made up of Ohayo (おはよう), meaning "early" and Gozaimasu (ご ざ い ます) meaning "is"/"am"/"are". So, its literal translation is "it is early". As you can see below, Gozaimasu can be added to Arigatou, meaning "thank you", to make it more polite.
  • Arigatou (Gozaimasu) (ありがとう (ご ざ い ます)) – Thank you (polite way)
  • Onegaishimasu (お願い し ます)/ Kudasai (くだ さい) - Please
  • Sumimasen (すみません) – Excuse me
  • Hai (はい) - Yes/ I understand
  • Iie (いいえ) - No
  • Nihongo ga wakarimasen (日本語がわかりません) - I don't understand Japanese
  • Gomen nasai (ごめんなさい) - I'm sorry

Formality In Japanese

Social hierarchy, or your rank compared to others, determines how you will talk to someone in Japanese.

The generally accepted pecking order puts parents above children, teachers above students, customers above shopkeepers, bosses above employees, and elders above younger people.

Moreover, familiarity plays a part in how formal or informal you are with someone. Families will speak more casual Japanese with one another, while strangers use formal terms. Good friends drop formalities entirely and use slang to communicate.

Japanese words are conjugated based on formality. Formal Japanese can be divided into three categories: polite language, honorific language, and humble language.

There is also an informal way of communicating in Japanese, but when you learn Japanese, you often learn the formal first as the conjugation is easier.

Gozimasu and Arigatou

You do not need to worry too much about this as an absolute beginner. Just remember that you can make simple adjustments such as adding gozimasu (ご ざ い ます) to ohayō (おはよう) when saying "good morning" to make it more formal, or to arigatou (ありがとう) to say "thank you" the formal way.

Domo arigato (共 ありがとう) "thank you so much" is also formal. This is a phrase many westerners are familiar with due to the song Mr Roboto by Styx!

Arigato or domo used in isolation are two ways to say "thanks", informally. Use the latter two with friends and family.

travel japanese translation

Onegaishimasu and Kudasai

Finally, let's revisit when we use Onegaishimasu (お願い し ます) and Kudasai (くだ さい) for "please".

  • Kudasai is the more familiar term, while onegai shimasu is more polite and honorable.
  • So, you can ask for water, for instance, by using Kudasai (ください) or onegai shimasu ( を お願い し ます), depending on who you are talking to. For example:
  • Mizu o onegai shimasu ( 水を お願い し ます) - I would like water, please (formal)
  • Mizu o kudasai (水 お ください) - Give me water, please (informal)

Kudasai is a familiar request word that you use when you know you are entitled to something.

For instance, asking a friend or peer for something, or making a request from someone of a lower rank than you. Take a look at the following phrases:

  • Mō yamete kudasai (もう やめて くだ さい ) - Please stop
  • Chotto matte kudasai (ちょっと 待って くだ さい) - Wait a minute, please
  • Kutsu o nuide kudasai (靴を脱いで くだ さい) - Please remove your shoes
  • Shio o watashite kudasai ( 塩を渡して くだ さい) - Pass the salt, please

If you are speaking to a teacher, elder, or boss in Japan and don't understand something, you can ask: Mou ichido onegai shimasu (もう一度お願いします) - Could you repeat that, please?

As well as language, gestures also play a part in formality and respect in Japanese culture. One such gesture is the bow, and it matters how deep you bend!

A short bow at 15° is appropriate for a casual greeting. A 30° bow is good for greeting strangers and bosses, while a 45° bow conveys deep respect or an apology.

10 Food & Drink Basic Phrases in Japanese

  • Menyū (メニュー) - Menu
  • O-sake (お酒) – General term for alcohol (not to be confused with the below)
  • Nihonshu (日本酒) – Japanese saké (rice wine)
  • Bīru (ビール) - Beer
  • Mizu (水) - Water
  • Gohan (ご飯) - Rice
  • Misoshiru (みそ汁) - Miso Soup
  • Sushi (すし) - Sushi
  • Mochi (餅 ) - Mochi (a traditional Japanese glutinous rice cake)
  • ___ o Kudasai ( をください) – I would like __, please ___ o onegai shimasu (を お願い し ます) - I would like ___ please

In addition to food and drink, you might want to know how to ask for other specific services in a Japanese restaurant.

  • Kin'en seki (禁煙席) - Non-smoking seat
  • Kurejittokādo wa tsukaemasu ka? (クレジットカードは使えますか) - Do you accept credit cards?

travel japanese translation

Japanese Restaurant Etiquette

It is not enough simply to know a few polite phrases in Japanese. You will also need to understand a bit about restaurant etiquette.

In many Japanese restaurants, there are low tables with cushions, rather than or in addition to western-style tables and chairs.

Cushions will be placed on tatami floors, which are a traditional kind of mat flooring in Japanese restaurants. You should never wear shoes or slippers on tatami flooring, and avoid stepping on anyone's cushion except your own.

Japanese Restaurant Vocabulary in Context

When the food comes, it is customary to wait for everyone's meals to arrive, then say:

  • Itadakimasu (いただきます) - "I gratefully receive (this meal)"

You should say this before starting to eat. This is similar to the French "bon appetit".

However, if a dish is best eaten hot and it arrives before the others, the following phrase can be used:

  • Osaki ni douzo (お先 に どうぞ) - "Please go ahead"

Other useful Japanese resturant phrases include:

  • Daijyoubu Desu (だいじょうぶです) - "I'm fine now" (this is a polite way to decline something from a waiter offering you more water or food).

You can conclude the meal by saying the phrase:

  • Gochisousama deshita (ごちそうさま でした) - "Thank you for the feast."

This expresses gratitude to the chef and for the ingredients of the meal.

At the end of your meal, you should use the following:

  • Okaikei wo onegaishimasu (お会計 を お願いします) - "The check, please."

Manners in Convenience Stores

The following piece of vocaulary will be useful:

  • Konbini (コンビニ) - Convenience store

In Japan, simple things like unfolding your bills before you hand them over to the cashier and not throwing down your coins are considered polite as they make the worker's job easier.

Customer service in Japan is famously excellent, so treat the clerk with respect and kindness, as you should in any other foreign country.

travel japanese translation

10 Transportation-Related Phrases to Get Around Japan

  • ___wa doko desu ka ( は どこ です か) – Where is __?
  • Eki (駅) - Train station eg. Eki wa doko desu ka (駅 は どこ です か) - Where is the train station?
  • Basu noriba (バスのりば) - Bus stop
  • Dono Densha (どの電車)/ Dono basu (どのバス) – Which train?/ Which bus?
  • (Tōkyō) ni ikitai ( ([東京) に行きたい) – I want to go to (Tokyo)
  • Kippu (切符) – Ticket
  • Katamichi kippu (片道切符)/ Kaeri no kippu (帰りの切符) - One-way ticket/ return ticket
  • Hoteru (ホテル) - hotel
  • Toire ( = トイレ) - Bathroom / toilet
  • Ikura desu ka (いくら です 化) - How much is it?

Japanese travel phrases in context

Now, you can start to put some of the words we have learned together to create a proper phrase.

  • Hiroshima e no kaeri no kippu o onegai shimasu, ikura desu ka (広島への帰りの切符をお願いします、いくらですか) - "I would like a return ticket to Hiroshima, how much is it?"

These essential Japanese travel phrases will come in handy when visiting Japan, as an estimated 70% of the population does not speak English.

You'll find more people with some level of English in the top destinations, such as Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka, while you might hit a language barrier in smaller towns.

Basic Japanese Phrases and Pronunciation in Japanese

An important phrase you will likely say a lot is desu ka ( です か).

This indicates a question when placed at the end of a sentence. So, let's make sure you can say it correctly, as it may not be pronounced as you'd expect.

You want to pronounce desu like “dess.” Remember, the “u” sound at the end is dropped.

This happens a lot with words that end with “u” sounds, including:

  • Arigatou Gozaimasu (ありがとう ご ざ い) - "thank you" (which is pronounced "arigatou gozaimas").

We have already seen desu ka in the phrase ikura desu ka, " how much is it?", and wa doko desu ka , "where is it?".

It is also used in the following key Japanese phrases:

  • O genki desu ka (お元気 です 化) - How are you? (Pronounced "o genki dess ka").
  • Nani desu ka (何ですか なにですか) - (polite) What?
  • Sou desu ka (そうですか) - Is that so?/ Really? The response, Sou desu (そうです), pronounced "so dess", means "that is so" or "yes, really".
  • Kore wa na ndesu ka (これ わ なん です か) - What is this?

You can create many more Japanese phrases for asking questions by using desu ka , so try to remember this pronunciation as it will get you a long way.

Basic Greetings Tourists Should Know in Japan

If you only have a short time before your trip to Japan, at the very least learn these simple greetings and make sure you know the dos and don'ts of public affection.

  • Kon'nichiwa, watashinonamaeha ___ (こんにちは、私の名前は) - "Good afternoon, my name is ___"
  • Konbanwa, hajimemashite (こんばんは、はじめまして) - "Good evening, nice to meet you."
  • Namae wa nandesu ka? (名前はなん です か) - "What is your name?"

Making Friends in Japan

Now that you know how to greet Japanese people appropriately, you can start to build a relationship with them.

Generally, when you meet people while traveling abroad, you ask:

  • Eigo o hanashimasu ka? (英語を話せますか) - "Can you speak English?"
  • Anata wa doko no kuni no shusshindesu ka (あなたはどこの国の出身 です か) - "Which country are you from?"
  • Doko no shusshindesu ka? ( どこの出身 です か) - "Where are you from?" (more simple phrase).
  • Anata wa doko ni sun deru nodesu ka? (あなたはどこに住んでるの です か) - "Where do you live?"

If you would like to become friends or make a date, you might want to gauge the person's interests:

  • Anata wa (eiga ga) sukidesuka? (あなたは (映画が) 好き です か) - "Do you like (the cinema)?"

travel japanese translation

Travel Tips for Japan

Remember Japanese manners! This includes restaurant etiquette, limiting public displays of affection, using polite language, and respecting the culture.

You cannot expect everyone in the world to speak your language, but by using a simple Japanese phrase here and there you can show that you are willing to try and meet them halfway.

Choose the season wisely. Visit Japan in Winter for the ski season, or in Spring for unforgettable views of cherry blossoms.

Or, choose an Autumn trip to avoid tourist crowds and peak travel seasons. The same applies to Summer, though this is typhoon season, which puts a lot of tourists off.

What is Ryokou?

Ryokou (旅行) is a Japanese noun meaning "travel" or "trip".

Broken down, 旅 is the kanji character meaning "travel", "trip", or "journey", and 行 is the kanji character used to express the act of going or visiting.

Use this next phrase if you want to impress your new Japanese friends by using their local language:

  • Watashi wa ryokou ga sukidesu (私は旅行が好きです) - "I love traveling".

If you're studying Japanese so you can take a trip to Japan, this is undoubtedly true!

How to Learn Japanese Naturally

If you are looking for additional resources for learning Japanese, check out Lingopie .

This is an online streaming platform that is designed to get you speaking Japanese and learning Kanji with ease through immersion in Japanese TV and movies.

Lingopie provides an authentic and natural way to learn other languages and makes learning Japanese fun.

This is a great tool for busy people who cannot sit through hours of Japanese classes every week.

Simply relax in the evening and watch half an hour of Japanese TV. Allow your brain to absorb the language naturally and pick up useful phrases and pronunciation.

And if you want to keep binge watching awesome shows check out our other Japanese articles. We listed 9 Japanese Movies on Netflix that can help your studies and we also did a guide to learning Japanese with anime ! We also recommend you to check out our free guide " Best way to learn Japanese ".

travel japanese translation

Summing up: Basic Travel phrases in Japanese

Now you can travel to Japan armed with some useful Japanese phrases and a basic understanding of the culture and mannerisms of the country.

You will be able to conduct yourself appropriately while dining, make your way around train stations, and if you speak slowly and clearly, begin to build relationships.

Remember, nobody will expect you to speak Japanese fluently, but if you can use these simple phrases, your travels will be simplified.

The average Japanese native speaker is unlikely to speak English fluently. You may hit a language barrier, but if you remember your polite gestures and restaurant etiquette, you can still do very well in Japan and impress the locals.

Hopefully, this guide has given you some travel inspiration. Have a wonderful time on your trip and good luck on your path to learning Japanese!

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Japanese Travel Phrases for an Enjoyable Trip to Japan

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Are you traveling to Japan and want to learn practical Japanese travel phrases? This article is designed to help you learn the most useful Japanese words for travel.

It’s always good to learn basic words when you travel to a foreign country. Not only does it make getting around easier, but it also allows you to enjoy communicating with the locals.

In general, Japanese people are not so good at speaking English , free wifi services aren’t very prevalent (especially outside of the central cities), and Japan is still more of a cash-based society than you may think. However, Japanese people are very kind; they’ll listen to you patiently and do their best to help. So just use these basic Japanese travel phrases to talk to Japanese people when you want to ask something.

When you speak even a little bit of Japanese, locals will appreciate your effort and will be more friendly. Here’s JapanesePod101’s list of practical Japanese travel phrases for your travels to Japan!

Table of Contents

  • Greeting/Communication
  • Asking for Directions
  • Restaurants
  • When You Need Help
  • Conclusion: How JapanesePod101 Can Help You Learn More Japanese

Log

1. Greeting/Communication

Airplane Phrases

To begin our list of essential Japanese travel phrases, we’ll go over greetings and basic travel phrases in Japanese for solid communication. These simple Japanese travel phrases can make a world of difference in your conversations and overall experience in Japan.

  • Romanization: Kon’nichiwa
  • English Translation: Hello

In terms of must-know Japanese travel phrases, you probably already know that this is the most common Japanese greeting word . You can say this to anybody for any occasion during the daytime.

  • Romanization: Hai / Iie
  • English Translation: Yes / No

Hai is “Yes” and it’s pronounced like the English word “Hi.” In Japan, saying yes also means that you understand. Iie is “No” and it’s pronounced ‘EE-eh.’

3- ありがとうございます

  • Romanization: Arigatō gozaimasu
  • English Translation: Thank you

Arigatō gozaimasu is the polite way to say “Thank you” in Japanese, and you can use this for any occasion. In case of a casual situation, you can just say Arigatō , or even more casually, Dōmo (どうも) which means “Thanks.”

4- いいえ、いりません

  • Romanization: Iie, irimasen
  • English Translation: No, thank you.

It literally means “No, I don’t need it,” in Japanese. At a restaurant, say this phrase when a waiter offers to fill your glass of water and you don’t want more.

  • Romanization: Sumimasen
  • English Translation: I’m sorry / Excuse me

This word is usually used to say “sorry” or “excuse me” . Say this when you bump into someone in a crowd or when you ask someone for directions. Japanese people also use this to mean “thank you,” in some cases, such as when someone picks up something you dropped.

  • Romanization: Onegai shimasu
  • English Translation: Please

When you request something, it’s polite to say Onegai shimasu . When someone offers you something and says please, she/he would say Dōzo (どうぞ) in Japanese.

  • Romanization: Watashi wa XX desu.
  • English Translation: I am XX.

Watashi is “I,” wa is “am/is/are,” and desu is a present-tense word that links subjects and predicates; it’s placed at the end of a sentence. You can put your name, or your nationality, such as: Watashi wa Amerika-jin desu (私はアメリカ人です) which means “I am American.”  

Many Different Flags

8- 私は日本語がわかりません

  • Romanization: Watashi wa nihongo ga wakarimasen.
  • English Translation: I don’t understand Japanese.

Nihongo is stands for the Japanese language, and Wakarimasen means “I don’t understand.” If you don’t know something, you can just say Wakarimasen meaning “I don’t know.”

9- 英語を話せますか

  • Romanization: Eigo o hanasemasu ka
  • English Translation: Can you speak English?

This is one of the most useful Japanese phrases for travelers. Eigo means “English,” Hanasemasu is a polite way to say “I speak,” and ka is a word that you add to the end of a complete sentence to make a question.

10- 英語でお願いします

  • Romanization: Eigo de onegai shimasu
  • English Translation: English, please.

This is another important Japanese travel phrase. De is the particle, and in this case it means “by” or “by means of.” The phrase literally translates as “English by please.” You can also say M saizu de onegai shimasu (Mサイズでお願いします) which means “Medium size, please.”

2. Asking for Directions

Preparing to Travel

One of the most important Japanese travel phrases you should know are directions . Here are some useful vocabulary words and two Japanese language travel phrases you need to know!

1- Vocabulary

  • 駅 ( Eki ) : Station
  • 地下鉄 ( Chikatetsu ) : Subway/Metro
  • トイレ ( Toire ) : Toilet
  • 銀行 ( Ginkō ) : Bank
  • 切符売り場 ( Kippu uriba ) : Ticket machine/Office
  • 観光案内所 ( Kankō annaijo ) : Tourist information office
  • 入口 ( Iriguchi ) : Entrance
  • 出口 ( Deguchi ) : Exit
  • 右 ( Migi ) : Right
  • 左 ( Hidari ) : Left
  • まっすぐ ( Massugu ) : Straight
  • 曲がる ( Magaru ) : Turn
  • 交差点 ( Kōsaten ) : Intersection
  • 角 ( Kado ) : Corner

2- XXはどこですか

  • Romanization: XX wa doko desu ka
  • English Translation: Where is XX?

Doko means “where” and you replace XX with the name of where you want to go.

For example

  • Toire wa doko desu ka (Where is the toilet?)
  • Deguchi wa doko desu ka (Where is an exit?)

3- XX e wa dō ikeba ii desu ka (XXへはどう行けばいいですか) : How can I go to XX?

  • Romanization: XX e wa dō ikeba ii desu ka
  • English Translation: How can I go to XX?

Dō is “how,” e is “to,” and ikeba ii can be translated as “good to go.” When you want to know how you can get somewhere, replace XX with where you want to go.

For example:

  • Eki e wa dō ikeba ii desu ka (How can I go to the station?)
  • Ginkō e wa dō ikeba ii desu ka (How can I go to the bank?)

4- Other Examples

1. この道をまっすぐ行きます ( Kono michi o massugu ikimasu. ):Go straight on this street.

Kono michi is “this street” and ikimasu is the polite way to say “Go.” O is a Japanese postpositional particle which indicates an object (in this case, kono michi ).

2. 次の角を右へ曲がります ( Tsugi no kado o migi e magarimasu. ):Turn right at the next corner.

Tsugi no kado means “next corner” and magarimasu is the polite way to say “Turn.” E is another postpositional particle that indicates direction; this can be translated as the English word “to.”

3. 交差点を渡って左へ行きます ( Kōsaten o watatte hidari e ikimasu. ):Cross an intersection and go to the left (direction).

Watatte is a conjugated form of wataru which means “cross.”

3. Shopping

Basic Questions

You’ll definitely love shopping when traveling in Japan, and some of the best Japanese phrases for travel are those related to this fun past-time. Knowing some useful Japanese words will make your shopping even more enjoyable.

1- XXはありますか

  • Romanization: XX wa arimasu ka
  • English Translation: Do you have XX?

When you’re at a store and looking for something, you can use this phrase by replacing XX with what you want.

  • Romanization: Ikura desu ka
  • English Translation: How much is it?

This is probably one of the most useful Japanese words for traveling and shopping. You can say Ikura desu ka in many situations, such as when you’re shopping, buying tickets, paying for a taxi, etc.

  • Romanization: Menzei dekimasu ka
  • English Translation: Can you do a tax exemption?

Did you know that, as a traveler, you can get a sales tax exemption when you purchase things greater than 5,000 yen? Menzei is “tax exempted” and dekimasu means “can do.” Don’t forget to say this when you buy something big!

  • Romanization: Kore wa nan desu ka
  • English Translation: What is this?

Kore is “this” and nan is another form of nani which means “what.” There are many unique foods, gadgets, and things which are unique to Japan, so when you wonder what it is, point to it and say this phrase.

  • Romanization: Kore o kaimasu
  • English Translation: I’ll buy this.

Kaimasu is the conjugation of the verb kau , which means “buy.”

6- カードは使えますか

  • Romanization: Kādo wa tsukaemasu ka
  • English Translation: Can I use a credit card?

Kādo is “card” and you pronounce it just like the English word “card.” Tsukaemasu is a conjugation of the potential form of the verb tsukau which means “use.” This phrase is useful when you want to use your card at small shops and restaurants.

Man and Woman Shopping

4. Restaurants

Japan has an array of delicious foods, of which sushi and ramen are just the tip of the iceberg. Amazingly, Tokyo is the city with the most Michelin-starred restaurants in the world, for several consecutive years. Enjoy yummy food at restaurants with useful Japanese words for restaurants and easy Japanese travel phrases related to food.

  • 英語のメニュー ( Eigo no menyū ) : English menu
  • ベジタリアンのメニュー ( Bejitarian no menyū ) : Vegetarian menu
  • 豚肉を含まないメニュー ( Butaniku o fukumanai menyū ) : Menu without pork
  • 水 ( Mizu ) : Water
  • 白/赤ワイン ( Shiro / Aka wain ) : White / Red wine

2- XXはありますか

When you want to ask if the restaurant has something you want, say this phrase (replacing XX with what you want).

  • Eigo no menyū wa arimasu ka (Do you have an English menu?)
  • Aka wain wa arimasu ka (Do you have red wine?)
  • Romanization: XX o kudasai
  • English Translation: Can I have XX?

This is another very useful phrase. Simply replace XX with what you want. You can also use this versatile phrase in various occasions, such as when shopping, choosing something, etc.

  • Kore o kudasai (Can I have this?)
  • Mizu o kudasai (Can I have water?)

4- お会計お願いします

  • Romanization: O-kaikei onegai shimasu
  • English Translation: Check, please.

O-kaikei means “check.” In Japan, people often cross their index fingers in front of their face as a gesture to indicate “check, please” at casual restaurants. However, when you’re at a nice restaurant, simply tell a waiter: O-kaikei onegai shimasu .

5. When You Need Help

Survival Phrases

Sometimes you get faced with unexpected emergencies while you’re traveling. Japan is famous for being one of the safest countries in the world, but you might fall very ill or be caught in a great earthquake.

1- Vocabularies

  • 警察 ( Keisatsu ) : Police
  • 病院 ( Byōin ) : Hospital
  • 救急車 ( Kyūkyūsha ) : Ambulance
  • ドラッグストア/薬局 ( Doraggu sutoa / Yakkyoku ) : Drug Store/Pharmacy
  • タクシー ( Takushī ) : Taxi

2- XXを呼んでください

  • Romanization: XX o yonde kudasai
  • English Translation: Can you call XX?

When you’re severely ill or in case of emergency, let people know by using this phrase. Japanese people will kindly help you.

  • Yūkyūsha o yonde kudasai (Can you call an ambulance?)
  • Keisatsu o yonde kudasai (Can you call the police?)

3- どこでインターネットを使えますか

  • Romanization: Doko de intānetto o tsukaemasu ka
  • English Translation: Where can I use the internet?

Although large cities in Japan provide free public wifi at major stations, metros, and cafes, you may need to find internet access in smaller cities. Remember that there will be kind Japanese people who will share their personal hotspots, or look things up for you with their own phones, as well.

4- 電話を貸してください

  • Romanization: Denwa o kashite kudasai
  • English Translation: Can I use your phone?

Denwa is “phone” and kashite is a conjugation word of kasu , which means “lend.” This phrase is literally translated as “Please lend (me) a phone.”

  • Romanization: Tasukete kudasai
  • English Translation: Please help me.

I believe this phrase is the last thing you would ever use in Japan, but in case something does happen, this is useful survival Japanese for tourists.

Japanese Landmark

6. Conclusion: How JapanesePod101 Can Help You Learn More Japanese

I hope this article of Japanese travel phrases is helpful and that you’ll enjoy your trip to Japan!

If you would like to learn more about the Japanese language, you’ll find more useful content on JapanesePod101.com . We provide a variety of free lessons for you to improve your Japanese language skills.

We also have YouTube channel: JapanesePod101 . It’s fun to learn Japanese through watching videos and listening to actual Japanese pronunciation, so we recommend you check it out!

Don’t forget to study with our free Japanese vocabulary lists , read more insightful blog posts like this one, and download our mobile apps to learn anywhere, anytime! Whatever your reason for learning Japanese , know that we’re here to help and you can do it ! Keep in mind that the best way to learn Japanese phrases for travel is repetition and practice.

Before you go, let us know in the comments how you feel about using these useful travel phrases in Japanese after reading this article. More confident, or still a little confused about something? Feel free to ask questions in the comments!

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Boutique Japan

20 Essential Japanese Phrases for Travelers to Japan

If you’re visiting Japan and a little worried about the language barrier (or you simply love languages), we’ve got you covered with these essential Japanese phrases for travelers.

In our guide to what we believe are the most important Japanese phrases for travel, we’ll introduce you to a selection of key words and phrases — and explain why the Japanese language barrier is not as worrisome as you might think.

The truth is, you do not need to speak any Japanese to have a successful, wonderful trip to Japan (and if you’re looking for travel inspiration, check out our favorite destinations in Japan ). However, learning a few key Japanese phrases can make your trip just that much better. So let’s get into it!

Download our Free Japanese Phrasebook:

Originally written in 2014, this post was updated and republished on November 1, 2019.

travel japanese translation

The Most Essential Japanese Words & Phrases for Your Trip to Japan

Learning Japanese can seem daunting, but don’t worry. You don’t need to learn any of these words or phrases to have a great time (see why we love Japan ).

However, as any seasoned traveler knows, making a little linguistic effort can go a long way, and it can be helpful to learn even a little of the local language for your travels. We’ve narrowed it down to a small selection of key words and phrases, divided by category:

  • The Basics: Key Japanese Words and Phrases
  • Food and Drink: Eating Your Way Around Japan
  • Now or Later: Time-Related Phrases in Japanese
  • Getting Around Japan: Transportation-Related Phrases

Here is a quick look at the words and phrase you’ll find below:

Top 20 Essential Japanese Travel Phrases:

  • Konnichiwa (こんにちは) – Hello
  • Arigatou Gozaimasu (ありがとうございます) – Thank you
  • Sumimasen (すみません) – Excuse me
  • __ o Kudasai (__をください) – I would like __, please
  • __ wa Doko Desu ka? (__はどこですか) – Where is __?
  • Itadakimasu (いただきます) – An expression of gratitude for the meal you’re about to eat
  • Omakase de (お任せで) – Used to order chef’s recommendation (often for sushi)
  • O-sake (お酒) – General term for alcohol
  • Nihonshu (日本酒) – Japanese sake
  • Kinen Seki (禁煙席) – Non-smoking seat
  • Ima Nanji Desu ka? (今何時ですか) – What time is it now?
  • Nanji ni? (何時に?) – At what time?
  • Asa (朝) – Morning
  • Kyou (今日) – Today
  • Ashita (明日) – Tomorrow
  • __ ni Ikitai (__に行きたい) – I want to go to __
  • Tomete Kudasai (止めてください) – Stop, please
  • Kippu (切符) – Ticket
  • Shinkansen (新幹線) – Bullet train
  • Dono Densha? (どの電車?) – Which train?

If you’re concerned about memorizing all this Japanese, or want to learn even more words and phrases, download Boutique Japan’s Tiny Phrasebook for free.

And for an introduction to how to say these words and phrases, see our bonus video to help you practice your Japanese pronunciation .

Basic Japanese Words and Phrases

Let’s start with a few of the most basic-yet-essential Japanese words and phrases. Even if you only remember how to say hello or thank you , you’ll find that Japanese people will be appreciative of your efforts!

1. Konnichiwa (こんにちは) – Hello

Let’s start with one you’ve probably heard before: the word for hello is konnichiwa .

Konnichiwa is typically used during the day, and there are other phrases for good morning and good evening ( ohayou gozaimasu , and konbanwa , respectively). But when you’re starting out it’s best to keep things simple, and if you simply learn konnichiwa you can use it throughout the day to say hello !

konnichiwa hello

2. Arigatou Gozaimasu (ありがとうございます) – Thank you

In Japan, etiquette is no joke, and chances are you’ll be saying thank you a lot (learn more in our guide to Japanese etiquette ).

The word for thank you in Japanese is arigatou gozaimasu (in Japanese, the u at the end of some words is barely pronounced to the point of being nearly silent). You can usually simply say arigatou , which is a little more casual but usually perfectly fine. In Japan, where politeness is such a key part of the culture, you’ll be saying arigatou gozaimasu a lot!

arigatou thank you

3. Sumimasen (すみません) – Excuse me

Excuse me is an important expression in any language, and Japanese is no exception.

The word for excuse me in Japanese is sumimasen . Chances are you’ll also be using this one quite a bit, so if you can try and memorize it! It’s a doubly useful word, as it can be used both to get a person’s attention, and also to apologize.

For example, use sumimasen at an izakaya (a Japanese-style gastropub) to get a waiter’s attention. At izakaya , it’s often called out as sumimaseeeeee~n ! On the other hand, if you accidentally walk onto a tatami floor with your shoes on (something you’re likely to do at some point) you can use sumimasen to say I’m sorry .

sumimasen excuse me

4. __ o Kudasai ( をください) – I would like , please

Now that we’ve covered three basic essentials, we can move onto two key sentences that will hopefully help you a lot.

First is I would like __, please . This is useful in a variety of situations: at restaurants, in stores, and on many other occasions you’ll encounter while traveling. In Japanese, it’s __ o kudasai (simply fill in the __ [blank] with the item of your choice).

To get the most out of this phrase, you may want to learn a few vocabulary words, such as water (mizu), beer (biiru) , sake , and others you think you may need.

kudasai i would like japanese phrase

5. __ wa Doko Desu ka? ( はどこですか) – Where is __?

Last but not least, we think it’s quite useful to be able to ask Where is the __? This is useful even if you can’t understand the answer, because once you ask, people will be able to point you in the right direction, or even help you get to where you’re going!

In Japanese, it’s __ wa doko desu ka? (simply fill in the __ [blank] with the place you’re trying to reach, such as the Ghibli Museum ). One key vocabulary word that often goes along with this phrase for travelers is eki , which means station (for example, Shinjuku eki is Shinjuku station ).

doku desu ka where is

Eating Your Way Around Japan: Food and Drink Phrases

For many travelers, Japanese food is a top priority! From classic Tokyo sushi restaurants to the legendary food culture of Okinawa , there’s a lot to take in. For alcohol afficionados, Japan also offers sake , Japanese whisky , shochu , and other traditional beverages.

While you don’t need to speak any Japanese to enjoy eating and drinking in Japan, these key words and phrases will help you make the most of your culinary experiences.

6. Itadakimasu (いただきます) – An expression of gratitude for the meal you’re about to eat

Certainly not required, but if you say itadakimasu before you begin eating, whether in a restaurant or at a person’s home, they will surely be impressed with your manners.

Essentially, this phrase expresses humility and thanks for the meal you are about to enjoy. The website Tofugu does a very nice job of explaining the meaning of itadakimasu .

bon appetit itadaki-masu Japanese phrase

7. Omakase de (お任せで) – Used to order chef’s recommendation (often for sushi)

If you’re a passionate sushi enthusiast, you probably already know the meaning of omakase .

When you tell a chef omakase de , you’re letting them know that you’re placing the meal in their hands. Especially for travelers with adventurous palates, this is the best way to experience a meal at a Tokyo sushi shop , for example.

However, the phrase is not only used at sushi restaurants, and can often be used at other types of establishments as well.

your recommendation omakase de

8. O-sake (お酒) – General term for alcohol

Technically osake , this word has tripped many a non-Japanese speaker up! While in English the word sake means, well, sake , in Japanese the word sake — more politely, osake — refers to alcoholic beverages in general.

( Sake and osake are virtually interchangeable; the “o” is what is known as an honorific prefix, but unless you’re studying Japanese in more depth, you really don’t need to worry about this!)

So if you’re looking for sake (which in Japanese is called nihonshu) , it’s best to ask for nihonshu (see below). If you’re simply looking for an adult beverage (such as nihonshu , shochu , or Japanese whisky ), the catchall term sake will do the trick.

alcohol osake

9. Nihonshu (日本酒) – Japanese sake

See above for the distinction between sake and nihonshu !

10. Kinen Seki (禁煙席) – Non-smoking seat

Encountering cigarette smoke is somewhat of an unavoidable aspect of traveling around Japan. This being said, most of our travelers are quite averse to smoke, and fortunately it’s possible to travel around Japan without smoke becoming too much of a nuisance.

In some places, such as restaurants, you may have a choice between the smoking and non-smoking sections. Kinen means non-smoking, and seki means seat : put them together and you’ve just conveyed that you’d like to be seated in the non-smoking area!

non smoking area kinen seki Japanese phrase

Time-Related Phrases in Japanese

Time-related phrases can be extremely helpful in certain travel situations, and below you’ll find a few of the most practical Japanese words and phrases on this topic.

11. Ima Nanji Desu ka? (今何時ですか) – What time is it now?

Chances are you’ll have a watch or cell phone on you, but once in a while you may need to ask a stranger for the time.

The basic phrase is simply nanji desu ka? which means, What time is it? People also commonly say ima nanji desu ka? which simply means, What time is it now? ( Ima means now.)

what time is in ima nanji desu ka

12. Nanji ni? (何時に?) – At what time?

This is a particularly useful phrase while traveling. It can be helpful when purchasing rail tickets (see more on getting around Japan below), making meal reservations, or arranging tickets to events.

Sure, you could just ask nanji? ( what time? ) and hope your point gets across, but by adding the preposition ni you can be assured of much more clarity!

at what time nanji ni

13. Asa (朝) – Morning

This one is fairly self-explanatory: asa means morning . While it’s no surprise that a food-loving culture like Japan has multiple words for breakfast , one of the most common is asagohan ( gohan literally means rice , but is more generally used to mean food ).

morning asa

14. Kyou (今日) – Today

Words like today and tomorrow can be particularly useful when buying train tickets, for example. For more on transport, see the transport-related phrases below.

today kyou

15. Ashita (明日) – Tomorrow

When pronouncing the word for tomorrow, ashita , the i is virtually silent, so it ends up sounding more like ashta . If you need to express the day after tomorrow, the word is asatte .

tomorrow ashita

Getting Around Japan: Transportation-Related Phrases for Travelers to Japan

For some travelers, one of the biggest concerns about not speaking the language is the prospect of getting around the country, navigating the trains, and trying to avoid getting lost.

Fortunately, Japan has an incredibly efficient and easy-to-use rail network, and you can read all about it in our guide to train travel and getting around Japan . And here are some key Japanese words and phrases to help you on your way.

16. __ ni Ikitai ( に行きたい) – I want to go to __

On its own, ikitai means, I want to go .

To express that you’d like to go somewhere, use the phrase __ ni ikitai (simply fill in the __ [blank] with the place you’re trying to reach). For example, Kyoto ni ikitai means, I want to go to Kyoto .

i want to go to ni iki-tai Japanese phrase for travelers

17. Tomete Kudasai (止めてください) – Stop, please

Tomete means stop , and is particularly useful in taxis. The kudasai here means please , and makes the phrase much more polite ( tomete on its own would come off as quite brusque).

stop here please tomete kudasai

18. Kippu (切符) – Ticket

Kippu means ticket (as in train tickets). As you can easily imagine, when purchasing rail tickets it can be very useful to be able to tell the ticket agent that you’d like a ticket to a certain place!

Made means until or to (in this case, to your destination). For example, Osaka made means to Osaka . Thus, Osaka made no kippu means ticket to Osaka . Put it all together with kudasai (for politeness) and you have Osaka made no kippu o kudasai .

tickets to made no kippu o kudas

19. Shinkansen (新幹線) – Bullet train

Ah, the shinkansen . One of the utter joys of traveling around Japan is the world-famous shinkansen (bullet train).

Whether you have the well-known Japan Rail Pass or not, if you’re doing any domestic travel within Japan, chances are you’ll end up on the incredible (and incredibly pleasant) shinkansen for at least one if not more of your journeys. Enjoy, and grab a bento and some nihonshu (see above) for the ride!

bullet train shinkan sen

20. Dono Densha? (どの電車?) – Which train?

Wondering which train you need? Imagine you’re in Kyoto Station, headed for Tokyo. You’re on your shinkansen’s departure platform, but you see two trains.

You show your ticket to a friendly Japanese person, and ask, dono densha? They take a look at your ticket and the two trains, and point you to the right one. And you’re on your way – happy travels!

which train dono densha

Download our Free Japanese Phrasebook PDF

For those of you who want to learn even more Japanese for travel, we’ve created the Boutique Japan Tiny Phrasebook.

Our Tiny Phrasebook features carefully selected Japanese words and phrases designed to help you get the most out of your trip to Japan. You’ll find all of the words and phrases featured above, and many more!

The phrasebook is a beautifully designed PDF (it may take a few moments to load depending on your internet speed).

Simply save it to your smartphone, tablet, or computer. We suggest using an app like iBooks (or another PDF reader) so you can search for words and navigate easily.

Bonus Video: Practice your Japanese Pronunciation

One of the best things about Japanese is that it’s surprisingly easy to pronounce. Unlike several other languages throughout Asia, Japanese is not a tonal language.

In the video below, we go over basic pronunciation for some of the most useful Japanese words and phrases for your trip to Japan.

Do you need to speak any Japanese to travel around Japan ?

Absolutely not. You can travel to Japan without learning any of these words and have a great time.

People ask us about the Japanese language barrier all the time, with common questions such as, Do Japanese people speak English? How much (or how little)? The language barrier is a common myth that shouldn’t get in your way. Most of our travelers don’t speak a single word of Japanese, yet come back with testimonials of how much they love Japan .

The truth is that most Japanese people speak at least a little bit of English. These days, all Japanese students study English for a minimum of six years in secondary school, and many students — as well as adults — also take English-language classes after school or on weekends.

English-language fluency is not widespread, so most people you meet probably won’t be fluent in English, but almost everyone you meet will know at least a few English words – and many will know anywhere from hundreds to thousands.

Sometimes you may find that the people you meet are hesitant to try their English on you, but you’ll likely find that you can communicate in basic English in a huge variety of situations while traveling around Japan.

Japanese language barrier signs Fushimi Kyoto Japan

The Japanese Written Language

You may also be worried about the written language. The good news is that you don’t need to be able to read or write Japanese to enjoy Japan.

Japanese people don’t expect you to be able to read the Japanese language, and you’ll find English-language signage throughout the country. This is especially true in places frequented by travelers, such as sightseeing spots, shopping areas, train stations, airports, and often even on the street.

As for at restaurants, though it’s not always the case, in some cases you will find English-language menus. When English-language menus are not available, photos are often included to make pointing and ordering possible.

Despite Japan’s travel-friendliness, every visitor to Japan at some point finds him or herself in a situation in which linguistic communication is simply not possible, and sign language and gesturing are required.

Getting lost in a foreign country where you don’t speak the language is a fear of many would-be travelers, but if you had to pick a country in which to get lost, you couldn’t do much better than Japan! Japan is by far one of the safest countries in the world, with crime rates that are astonishingly low compared to places like the US and most of Europe. And Japanese people will often go to surprising lengths to help tourists.

Back when I first moved to Japan I spoke very little Japanese, and on my first visit to Kyoto I accidentally took the wrong train and ended up wandering around a neighborhood with no idea how to get where I wanted to go. Luckily, an older gentleman with his wife spotted me looking confused and came up to me with perhaps one of the only English phrases he knew: “ Are you lost? ” I said yes and showed him the name of the place I wanted to go.

If he had simply pointed me in the right direction it would have been helpful, but instead he started walking me in the right direction. After a few minutes of walking his wife split off, presumably to go home, and we continued. After 15 minutes of walking he had dropped me off at exactly the spot I needed to be, and – as is typical in Japanese culture – expected nothing in return. I thanked him profusely and we had a good laugh despite our inability to communicate linguistically.

Nighttime neon Osaka Japan

Why Learn Any Japanese if You Won’t Need it?

Almost everyone who has visited Japan has a similar story of a random act of kindness and generosity from a Japanese stranger (or a tale of a camera or passport left on a train being miraculously returned). So you can rest assured that even if you forget all of the words and phrases we’ve shown, you’ll be in good hands with the wonderful people of Japan.

But aside from the fact that it’s a rich and fascinating language, learning even just one or two Japanese words or phrases will help endear you to the Japanese people you meet during your trip, and enhance your overall travel experience.

Japanese people tend to be extremely appreciative of visitors who take the time to learn even just a word or phrase or two, and if you try then chances are you’ll be greeted with oohs and aahs of encouragement.

We hope you’ve found our guide to Japanese words and phrases for travelers helpful. Arigatou gozaimasu!

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73+ Essential Japanese Travel Phrases for Tourists Visiting Japan & Free cheat sheet

List of essential Japanese travel phrases for tourists traveling to Japan, with Japanese language basics and free Japanese travel phrases pdf. Easy Japanese travel words for anyone interested in learning Japanese language. From how to say thank you in Japanese, to Japanese phrases for ordering food and words for going around for easy navigation on your holiday in Japan. Japan | Visit Japan | Japanese Phrases for Travel | East Asia | Nippon #traveljournal #language #download #travelphrases

Disclosure: This essential Japanese travel phrases for tourists article may contain affiliate links. If you click it and buy something you like, I’ll earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you! Read more in  Disclaimer .

Going to Japan? Searching for essential Japanese travel phrases for tourists ? Look no further! When in Japan, being familiar with common Japanese phrases for tourists will be beyond helpful! Trust me! I have been to Japan and knowing basic Japanese phrases helped me to enjoy exploring the vibrant streets of Tokyo , serene temples of Kyoto , or the natural beauty of Mount Fuji during sakura.

Before you travel to the land of the rising Sun, learn Japanese travel phrases which will help to order ramen, and to deepen your understanding of Japanese culture and their way of life. Curious, what are some common phrases I need to learn before my trip to Japan ?

🥘 If you have been wondering “What is Anja’s favorite Japanese food?”, you will find the answer hidden in the blog.

anja on Adventure

Japan is one of the most sought-after and visited countries in Asia, known for its fascinating blend of tradition and modernity, breathtaking landscapes, and renowned cuisine. Especially popular in Spring at sakura or in Autumn for fall foliage.   There are people in Japan, who speak English. But it is not as common as you would think. Thus, japanese phrases to know when traveling will come in handy. By knowing basic Japanese words you will also be able to show respect to the locals. In this common travel phrases Japanese language guide , you are going to find useful phrases in Japanese for tourists. From typical Japanese phrases for greetings, Japanese hotel phrases and Japanese words for simple conversation. Inside the post you will also find a FREE Japanese travel phrases pdf , that you can download and bring with you to Japan.   Let’s begin your Japanese adventure by learning essential Japanese phrases for travel .

for ESSENTIAL TRAVEL PHRASES: • 73+ Essential ENGLISH Travel Phrases and Words You Should Know • 73+ Essential ARABIC Travel Phrases for Tourists in Arab Countries & Free PDF • 73+ Essential GREEK Travel Phrases for Tourists on a Greek Holiday & Download • 73+ Essential JAPANESE Travel Phrases for Tourists Visiting Japan & Free cheat sheet • 73+ Essential SLOVENIAN Travel Phrases for your trip to Slovenia & Free Download • 73+ Essential SWAHILI Travel Phrases for Travelers to East Africa + Free Download for WORDS & PHRASES in 101 different languages: • How to say You have beautiful eyes in 101 different languages • How to say What is the WiFi password in 101 different languages • How to say Hello in 101 different languages spoken around the World • How to say Love in 101 different languages spoken around the World • How to say I love you in 101 different languages spoken around the World • How to say Thank you in 101 different languages spoken around the World • How to say Happy Birthday in 101 different languages spoken In the World • How to say Happy New Year in 101 different languages spoken around the World • How to say Friend in 101 different languages spoken around the World with Pronunciation

for general JAPAN TRAVEL TIPS: • GET OVER JET LAG WITH THESE 19 EASY-TO-FOLLOW TIPS • ULTIMATE TRAVELER SAFETY GUIDE: WHAT TO DO DURING AN EARTHQUAKE for JAPAN TIPS: • Ultimate List of 23 Best Apps for Travel to Japan • JAPAN COST OF TRAVEL AND DETAILED BUDGET BREAKDOWN • HOW TO SPEND SEVENTEEN DAYS IN JAPAN: FIRST TIME ITINERARY • 73+ Essential Japanese Travel Phrases for Tourists Visiting Japan & Free cheat sheet for best TOURS IN JAPAN: • TOP 5 RAMEN TOURS IN TOKYO TO UNLOCK YOUR TASTEBUDS • 10 STUNNING JAPAN CHERRY BLOSSOM TOURS THAT YOU WILL ABSOLUTELY LOVE for INSTAGRAM CAPTIONS about JAPAN: • 55 BEST KYOTO CAPTIONS FOR INSTAGRAM – GOLDEN AND KAWAII • 55 BEST TOKYO CAPTIONS FOR INSTAGRAM – KAWAII AND CUTE • 73 Best Ramen Captions for Instagram – Delicious Like Broth • 87 Simplistic Cherry Blossom Captions for Sakura – Sweet and Dreamy • 135 Best Japan Captions for Instagram – Puns, Quotes, Riddles & Jokes

Table of Contents

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List of essential Japanese travel phrases for tourists traveling to Japan, with Japanese language basics and free Japanese travel phrases pdf. Easy Japanese travel words for anyone interested in learning Japanese language. From how to say thank you in Japanese, to Japanese phrases for ordering food and words for going around for easy navigation on your holiday in Japan. Japan | Visit Japan | Japanese Phrases for Travel | East Asia | Nippon #traveljournal #language #download #travelphrases

1. Where is Japanese spoken?

Did you know that more than 125 million people speak Japanese? Japanese is primarily spoken in Japan. It is the official language of Japan and is spoken by the majority of the population there. Due to globalization and the popularity of Japanese culture, Japanese is studied and spoken by learners in many countries worldwide. There are Japanese-speaking communities in countries around the world, particularly in the United States, Brazil, Canada, Australia, and the Philippines. The best way to learn Japanese for travel is by using apps like Duolingo or Memrise. If your Japan itinerary is longer than 2 weeks, maybe sign up for a language course. To master the basic Japanese phrases for conversation the best way would be going on a language exchange but if you don’t have time, just download Japanese cheat sheet in this blog post.

List of essential Japanese travel phrases for tourists traveling to Japan, with Japanese language basics and free Japanese travel phrases pdf. Easy Japanese travel words for anyone interested in learning Japanese language. From how to say thank you in Japanese, to Japanese phrases for ordering food and words for going around for easy navigation on your holiday in Japan. Japan | Visit Japan | Japanese Phrases for Travel | East Asia | Nippon #traveljournal #language #download #travelphrases

2. Japanese language basics: alphabet and pronunciation

Before you start learning common Japanese phrases for tourists, you have to familiarize yourself with the basics of the Japanese language . The Japanese writing system consists of three alphabets: Hiragana, Katakana, and Kanji . Hiragana and Katakana are native to Japan. They both use 46 characters , each representing one syllable and a specific phonetic sound . Hiragana is used for native Japanese words and Katakana for words borrowed from foreign languages. Kanji is a writing system borrowed from China, where each ideogram stands for a certain meaning and can have multiple pronunciations.  Don’t get scared, let me tell you that Japanese alphabet has fewer letters than English alphabet, 21 in total. It uses the same sounds that you use in the English language. Each character represents a specific sound , and once you grasp the sounds, you will be able to read and pronounce Japanese with ease.   Below you will find a guide for Hiragana and Katakana symbols and a similar sound in English language.

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travel japanese translation

3. Essential Japanese travel phrases

3.1. basic japanese phrases for travelers.

Basic Japanese phrases for conversation that showcase politeness and cultural respect, encouraging positive interactions with locals and are a base for every communication. Those are basic phrases to know when visiting Japan.

ALSO READ: • HOW TO SPEND SEVENTEEN DAYS IN JAPAN: FIRST TIME ITINERARY

3.2. Essential Japanese phrases for greetings and introductions

Japanese words and phrases for greetings lay the foundation for any interaction, allowing you to initiate conversations and make a positive first impression. They are easy Japanese words to learn.

ALSO READ: • How to say You have beautiful eyes in 101 different languages around the World

3.3. Essential Japanese travel phrases for directions and getting around

Japanese travel phrases when asking for directions will enable you to navigate unfamiliar streets and find your way around.

ALSO READ: • Japan Cost of Travel and Detailed Budget Breakdown

3.4. Useful Japanese phrases for tourists when ordering food and drinks

Japanese language phrases for ordering meals, asking for recommendations, and specifying dietary preferences ensure enjoyable dining experiences and help you explore local cuisines.

travel japanese translation

3.5. Essential phrases in Japanese for shopping

Japanese basics terms for inquiring about prices, negotiating, and Japan tourist phrases for asking for sizes or colors are handy when exploring markets and boutiques.

ALSO READ: • Ultimate List of 23 Best Apps for Travel to Japan

🥘 “What is Anja’s favorite Japanese food?” It is ramen. I love ramen and could eat it every day.

3.6. Useful Japanese hotel phrases

Japanese language words and hotel phrases you will need when checking in a hotel, asking for towels, fixing air conditioning, enquiring what time is breakfast, and what is included in your room rate.

ALSO READ: • How to say Thank you in 101 different languages in the World

3.7. Survival Japanese phrases and Japanese travel terms in case of emergencies

Here you will find helpful Japanese travel terms in case of emergencies, natural disasters, or if you will be needing assistance in difficult or dangerous situations.

ALSO READ: • Best Japan Captions for Instagram – Puns, Quotes, Riddles & Jokes

3.8. Beyond tourist Japanese phrases

If you’re like me and really love learning a few phrases in new languages, expand your study beyond the essential travel phrases . I always learn how to say please and thank you, never visit a country without knowing the local word for “coffee” and never leave without knowing how to say;

travel japanese translation

4. Best language App for traveling abroad

Learning a language is a long process. If you think you won’t have time to learn basic Japanese phrases , or if the situations come your way when above mentioned Japanese travel phrases won’t be enough, use Google Translate. This is my favorite language app, that I use on (almost) every trip.

4.1. Google Translate

Google Translate is the most popular language travel app that can be used everywhere. I personally use it on all my travels, when going to Tanzania to learn what some Swahili words mean, when in Mexico to help with my not-the-best Spanish, when in Italy, in Japan and other places. I’m sure you are familiar with the language app already. The most obvious feature is it will help you translate the destination language into your own one. But the absolute best feature is that it can translate the text using ‘ camera translation ’. All you have to do is open the app, point your camera toward the text in a foreign language and Google Translate will do the rest. Perfect for menus! It also translates text from the photos on your camera roll. And it also works offline, when you download the language pair on your phone. Language: 133 languages Download: iOS | Android | Website Price: Free

travel japanese translation

5. Final Thoughts on Essential Japanese Travel Phrases for Tourists

Whether it’s a warm greeting, ordering a meal, or expressing gratitude, this travel japanese guide and Japanese for tourists not only open doors to easier communication, but also show respect and will help you to understand Japanese culture in a different way. Before traveling to Nippon, learn Japanese words for tourists that will help you to navigate through this modern but culturally entwined land, full of history, sushis, shrines, and geishas. How to say Hello in Japanese and how to say thank you in Japanese language. Basic Japanese phrases for directions, ordering food, and checking in a hotel. And don’t forget to download Japanese travel cheat sheet . Which of these must know Japanese phrases for travel have you managed to memorize so far? Let me know in the comments! Safe travels = 安全な旅行 [anzen’na ryokō], Anja

➤ What you should read next …

• How to spend 17 days in Japan • Japan Cost of Travel and Detailed Budget Breakdown • Ultimate List of 23 Best Apps for Travel to Japan • 135 Best Japan Captions for Instagram – Puns, Quotes, Riddles & Jokes • How to say Hello in 101 different languages

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Essential Japanese Phrases for Tourists visiting Japan  + FREE cheat sheet

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Are you ready to travel like a PRO? Save time and money with these travel tips and resources . I personally use these companies to save time and money. They do the work by providing a list of options, prices, and reviews from actual guests, for anywhere I am traveling worldwide. ✈️ FLIGHTS: I use Skyscanner in combination with Google Flights to find amazing flight fares (try the Explore feature). I book directly with an airline or pair it with Iwantthatflight for the best deals. 🏨 ACCOMMODATION: Booking.com is my favorite site for finding great hotel deals. They return the best rates and reviews are from actual guests! 🚘 RENTAL CARS: Discover Cars are my go-to, when planning an epic road trip. 🗽 TOURS & ACTIVITIES: I like to wander around on my own, but when I want to explore with a group, skip the line with an entrance ticket, I book it with GetYourGuide or Viator . ❤️‍🩹 TRAVEL INSURANCE: I never, under any circumstances travel without insurance. In most cases, I use yearly global travel medical insurance. But, if you don’t have that and some impromptu travel plans occur, use SafetyWing . With them, you can buy travel insurance even when you are already abroad. Better be safe, than sorry! 📲 ONLINE SAFETY: NordVPN keeps your devices’ browsing safe and malware-free. Stream shows from around the world, access social media in countries where they are blocked and buy cheap flights by changing your virtual location. 🛜 STAY CONNECTED WITH eSIM: Ditch the plastic SIM cards and waiting in lines at the airport! Airalo eSIMs allow you to connect as soon as you land at your destination. They have eSIMs for over 190+ countries worldwide.

Where is Japanese spoken?

Japanese is an official language in Japan. There are some Japanese-speaking communities in various other countries around the world, like the United States, Brazil, Canada and Australia.

How to say Good Morning in Japanese?

おはようございます pronounced as “ohayou gozaimasu” Learn basic Japanese words and quick Japanese phrases easy on Anja On Adventure blog. Here you can also FREE DOWNLOAD Japanese phrases for travelers pdf and key Japanese phrases for tourists.

How to say Thank you in Japanese?

Thank you in Japanese is ありがとうございます, which is pronounced as “ arigatou gozaimasu”. Learn more Japanese language basics and easy Japanese phrases for tourists on Anja On Adventure blog. Here you can also FREE DOWNLOAD basic Japanese travel phrases pdf and coloring pages with Japanese words.

How to say Hello in Japanese?

こんにちは pronounced as “konnichiwa” Learn basic Japanese for tourists and important Japanese phrases for travel on Anja On Adventure blog. Here you can also FREE DOWNLOAD Japanese for travelers pdf and Japan basic words.

How to say My name is in Japanese?

わたしのなまえは …, pronounced as “ Watashi no namae wa …”. Learn Japan travel phrases and top Japanese phrases for tourists on Anja On Adventure blog. Here you can also FREE DOWNLOAD basic Japanese words pdf and Japanese phrases while travelling Japan.

How to say How are you in Japanese?

おげんきですか? , pronounced as “ Ogenki desu ka?” Learn more Japanese phrases to know and basic Japanese phrases for tourists on Anja On Adventure blog. Here you can also FREE DOWNLOAD Japanese phrase cheat sheet pdf and useful kanji for tourists.

How do you say Hi in Japanese?

Hi in Japanese language is やあ , pronounced as “ya”. Learn learn basic Japanese for travel and Japanese phrases for travelling on Anja On Adventure blog. Here you can also FREE DOWNLOAD japanese cheat sheet tourist pdf and Japan phrases for travelers.

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anja on Adventure

Anja On Adventure is a travel blog, a collection of insider tips and information on destinations, that I visited as a solo female traveler, tour guide, teacher, yacht stewardess, and Survivor challenge tester. Anja, is a thirty-something adventure-seeking, sun chasing, beach hopping, gin-loving, tropics enthusiast with a creative mind and sarcastic spirit, who loves coconut and mango but doesn’t like chocolate and sweets. I am passionate about all things travel, maps, and puzzles. Click here to learn more About me .

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25+ Easy Japanese Travel Phrases for Beginners to Say

Looking to learn some Japanese travel phrases?

Well, if you’re traveling to Japan, then you’ll likely need some of these phrases about toilets, money, English and much more.

By the way, if you want to hear REAL Japanese, check out this audio lesson by JapanesePod101. Press play below. Why? It’s one thing to read about Japanese and another to hear native speakers — you learn faster!

  • “Survival Phrases S2 #1 – Thank You!”
  • Lesson by  by JapanesePod101.com  (click here for more fun audio lessons)

So, here are the most useful Japanese travel phrases.

1. Konnichiwa こんにちは Hello/Good Day

japanese travel phrase

You’re probably somewhat aware of this word “Konnichiwa.” A very common Japanese greeting . You can use it to greet people during the day. This means, you wouldn’t use it during the morning or evening.

2. Ohayou Gozaimasu おはようございます Good Morning

japanese travel phrase

This is a good Japanese greeting to know. So, if you’re entering a hotel, a shop or some other place in the morning, you can say this first. Use this before 11AM.

Now, what about evening?

3. Konbanwa こんばんは Good evening

japanese travel phrase

Feel free to use this Japanese greeting after 6PM or so.

4. Hai  はい Yes, いいえ iie No

These are just basic words you and every one should know.

japanese travel phrase

If you’re curious, you can learn more ways to say yes in Japanese here , and more ways to say no in Japanese here . But, as a traveler, “hai” and “iie” are good enough.

5. Arigatou Gozaimasu.  ありがとうございます Thank you very much

You’ll likely want to say thank you to shop staff, airline staff or a water at a restaurant.

So, just say “Arigatou Gozaimasu.” This is pronounced “a-ree-ga-to go-zay-mas”.

You can also check out this JapanesePod101 (they’re a Japanese learning program) audio lesson here to hear the pronunciation.

  • Lesson by  by JapanesePod101.com  (click here for more fun lessons at JapanesePod101.com)

japanese travel phrase

There are several ways to say thank you depending on the politeness level. Obviously, the longer, the more polite. Use “Arigatou gozaimasu” to be on the safe side.

  • Thanks (super casual – only with friends)
  • Thank you (casual, okay to use with most people)
  • Thank you very much (polite, standard, most common way to say it – the SAFEST phrase to use)
  • Thank you very much (MORE polite, because it’s in past tense).

So, these were some really basic phrases.

Now, we’re going to go from 0 to 100 and cover more complex ones.

6. Toire wa doko desu ka? トイレはどこですか? ) Where is the bathroom?

This is probably one of the most useful Japanese travel phrases.

You’ll always need the toilet, right? That’s why it’s good to know

Since Japan uses very different characters from English, it’s possible that you may not recognize the sign for the bathroom. Also, keep a look out for the high-tech toilets when visiting Japan!

japanese travel phrases

  • Pronounced: Toy-re
  • Doko – where

7. Ikura desu ka? いくらですか? – How much is it?

If you’re out shopping or on the street buying food, this is the perfect phrase to use. Keep in mind that Japan is a country that doesn’t haggle so there is usually a set price. If you’re lucky, some local shops might give you some extra products or food for free.

japanese travel phrases

  • Pronounced: ee-koo-ra

8. Betsu betsu de onegai shimasu. 別々でお願いします。) – We would like to pay separately.

When travelling as a group, it’s nice to be able to split the cost when you’re about to pay for your meal at a restaurant.This is a great phrase to use before they bring the bill.

travel japanese translation

  • Betsu betsu – separately

9. Sumimasen! すみません! – Excuse me! (or thank you!)

This phrase can be used for multiple purposes. It’s possible to use it to say “excuse me”, if someone is in your way or to ask a stranger a question. It also works as a “thank you”. In some cases, it’s more common to say “Sumimasen!” than to say “Arigato!”. “Sumimasen!” acknowledges someone going out of their way for you.

japanese travel phrases

  • pronounced (soo-mee-ma-sen)

10. _____wa doko desu ka? _____はどこですか? – Where is _____?

japanese travel phrases

If you’re on the street trying to find a place or you get lost, simply ask this question. You can put any location in the blank part of the phrase. It could be a restaurant, landmark, or a train station.

11. _____wo kudasai.  _____をください。 – I would like to have _____. 

Use this phrase when asking for something. In the blank, you can add things like what you want on the menu, train tickets, or anything you might be looking to buy. Keep in mind that this phrase only works when asking for items or food, and it doesn’t work with verbs.

japanese travel phrases

  • Pronunciation: Koo-da-sai

12. Osusume wa nan desu ka? オススメはなんですか?  What do you recommend?

This is useful for anyone who likes to explore food culture. If you’re confused with what to order on the menu, you can use this phrase to ask the waiter’s recommendation. It’s also useful, if you just need some advice on what is recommended. For example, if there are two trains you can take to get somewhere and you need to decide.

japanese travel phrases

  • Pronunciation: oh-soo-soo-me

13. Shashin totte moratte mo ii desu ka? 写真とってもらっても良いですか? Could you take a picture for me (or us)? 

This probably the second most useful Japanese travel phrases

If you’re at a beautiful landmark, you might want a picture as a keepsake. Use this phrase to ask a stranger to take a picture for you. Taking pictures is a big part of Japanese culture so someone will definitely help you out.

japanese travel phrases

  • shashin – picture

14. Yoyaku ga arimasu. 予約があります。I have a reservation.

This phrase can be used if you’ve made a reservation for a restaurant or any other kind of service. They’ll usually need to check your confirmation number or name to verify your reservation.

japanese travel phrases

  • Yoyaku – reservation

15. Chizu o kudasai. 地図をください。 Could I have a map?

The train and metro lines in the big cities of Japan can be crazy. Use this phrase if you want to have a train or metro map. It’s also useful if you’re in need of a map at a landmark, museum, or other location.

japanese travel phrases

  • Chizu – map

16. Takushii noriba wa dokodesuka? タクシー乗り場はどこですか? Where can I grab a taxi?

There are often designated locations that taxi’s can be picked up in Japan. They’re usually in front of airports, train stations and in busy city centers. If you see taxis parked one after another and try to approach one of them, they’ll refuse you because you’ve come across a taxi line, and somewhere at the front is a taxi stand. So, you’ll have to find it. Or you can ask someone using this phrase. That being said, you can always wave down a cab.

japanese travel phrases

  • Takushii – taxi
  • Noriba – Taxi stand

17. Okaikei onegaishimasu  お会計お願いします。 Could I have the bill? 

This phrase is useful if you’re at a restaurant and want to get the bill. In Japan, depending on the restaurant, they have many small dishes that they will need to calculate for you.

japanese travel phrases

  • Kaikei  – bill/check

18. Eigo shaberemasuka? 英語喋れますか? Can you speak English?

Even if you’re trying to practice your Japanese, it might be necessary to speak in English if you get confused. Ask this phrase to see if the other person can speak with you in English. These days, it’s common that many shops or train stations will have English speaking representatives.

japanese travel phrases

  • Eigo  – English

19. Shichaku shite mo ii desu ka?  試着しても良いですか? Can I try this on?

This is a useful phrase for clothes shopping. Clothing shop assistants are usually very attentive in Japan. It’s important to keep in mind that it can be considered rude if you end up not buying anything after trying on lots of clothes.

japanese travel phrases

  • Shichaku  – try on

20. Wai fai wa arimasu ka? ワイファイはありますか?Do you have Wifi?

Internet connection is important to navigate an unknown city or to stay connected with friends and family. Ask this phrase to check if a place has any Wi-Fi connection. Convenience stores and train stations will usually have free Wifi!

japanese travel phrases

  • Wai Fai  – WiFi

21. Kaado uketsuke masuka? カード受け付けますか? Can I use card payment?

It’s important to check if a restaurant accepts credit cards in Japan. In some restaurants, it is possible that it would be cash only.

japanese travel phrases

  • Kaado  – (credit) card

22. _____no arerugii ga arimasu. ______のアレルギーがあります。I have an allergy to ______.

If you have any allergies it’s essential to learn this phrase. It’s also recommended to learn the names of the specific allergens in Japanese. These days, many restaurants in Japan are very sensitive to food allergies. They will have a chart with all of the menu items and the common food allergens in each dish.

japanese travel phrases

  • Arerugii  – allergy

23. Menyuu, onegai shimasu. メニュー、お願いします。Menu Please.

Here’s one of the more easier Japanese travel phrases.

Menu in Japanese is… “menyuu.” Yes, it sounds pretty much the same. So if you’re at a restaurant and need a menu, you won’t go wrong.

japanese travel phrases

  • Menyuu – menu

24. Kore wo kudasai. これをください。 This please.

This another one of the most useful Japanese travel phrases.

It’s likely you’ll go shopping and want something out of reach. So, you can point to the object and say “kore wo kudasai” and the shop staff will help you out. You can also use this phrase while pointing at a menu – in case you can’t read it and are going by pictures.

japanese travel phrases(19)

  • Kore  – this
  • Kudasai – please

25. Mizu, onegai shimasu. 水、お願いします。Water, please.

What if you’re at a restaurant and need water?

Or, what if you’re feeling dehydrated? Remember the word “mee-zoo” meaning water. You can tell this to a waiter, a bartender, or whoever can provide you with water.

japanese travel phrases

  • Mizu – Water

Now you know a whole bunch of Japanese travel words and phrases.

Also, if you want to learn some  beautiful Japanese words, then check my other post  here .

Do you know any other Japanese travel phrases?

Leave a comment below.

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101 Basic Japanese Words and Basic Japanese Phrases for Travel in Japan

Elaina Robbins

Elaina Robbins

Travel in Japan is the ultimate goal of many Japanese students. Not only is it a fascinating and eye-opening experience; it’s a great opportunity to practice using basic Japanese words and basic Japanese phrases in a setting other than the classroom.

Having a selection of basic Japanese phrases ready to use as you travel in Japan will help you get around and improve your pronunciation as you interact with native speakers. After all, there is no better way to learn any new language than practical application!

We have assembled a list of practical, basic Japanese phrases that will make your journey through this ancient culture even more educational and memorable. Speechling has many tools to help with comprehension and pronunciation as you prepare for your trip and commit these basic Japanese phrases and words to memory.

women in kimonos come out of a shop

These basic Japanese words and phrases allow you to greet people and interact throughout the day. As you use them, remember what you’ve learned about the high premium placed on respect in this culture! When in doubt, err on the side of too much deference.

  • Hello: Konnichiwa. こんにちは
  • Good morning: Ohayo- gozaimasu. おはようございます
  • Good afternoon: Konnichiwa. こんにちは (yes, this is the same as “hello”!)
  • Good evening: Konbanwa. こんばんは
  • Goodbye: Sayo-nara. さようなら
  • Please: Kudasai. ください
  • Thank you: Arigato- gozaimasu. ありがとうございます
  • How are you?: Ogenki desu ka? お元気ですか?
  • Yes: hai. はい
  • No: EE-eh. いいえ
  • My name is __ : Watashi no namae wa __ desu. 私の名前は __ です
  • What’s your name?: Onamae wa nan desu ka? お名前は何ですか? (おなまえは なんですか?)
  • It’s nice to meet you: Hajimemashite. 始めまして (said at the beginning of a conversation, not when parting)
  • Sorry: Gomen-nasai. 御免なさい
  • Excuse me: Sumimasen. すみません
  • Where is the?: __ wa doko desu ka? __ はどこですか?
  • I don't understand. Wakarimasen. わかりません
  • I do not speak Japanese: Nihongo o hanashimasen. 日本語を話しません (にほんごを はなしません)
  • Do you speak English?: Ehgo o hanashimasu ka? 英語を話しますか?(えいごを はなしますか?)
  • Please repeat that: Mo- ichido itte kudasai. もう一度言ってください (もういちど いってください)
  • Please speak slowly: Yukkuri hanashite kudasai ゆっくり話してください (ゆっくり はなしてください)
  • Would you please help me?: Tetsudatte moraemasuka? 手伝ってもらえますか? (てつだって もらえますか?)
  • I want to go: (Koko) ni ikitai no desu. (ここ)に行きたいのです ((ここ) に いきたいのです)

Japanese traditional building

Transportation and Lodging

As in most countries, Japanese transit and hotel staff seem to have a language of their own. Do some reading online before your trip, just to acquaint yourself with some of the quirks you may encounter in Japanese hotels (for example, you’re expected to tidy your own hotel room). Here are some basic words and phrases that will be helpful.

  • How much is a ticket to __ ?: ___ madeh ikura desu ka? ___ までいくらですか ?
  • A ticket to__, please: ___ madeh ichimai onegaishimasu. __ まで一枚お願いします
  • Where does the train/bus go?: Kono densha/basu wa doko yuki desuka? この(電車/バス)はどこ行きですか ?
  • Where is the train/bus to (a location)?: ___ yuki no densha/basu wa doko desuka? ___ 行きの(電車/バス)はどこですか?
  • Does this train/bus stop in __ ?: Kono densha/basu wa ___ ni tomarimasuka? この(電車/バス)は ___ に止まりますか ?
  • When does the train/bus for ___ leave?: ___ yuki no densha/basu wa nanji ni shuppatsu shimasuka? ___ 行きの(電車/バス)は何時に出発しますか?
  • When will the train/bus arrive in __ ?: Kono densha/basu wa nanji ni ___ ni tsukimasuka? この(電車/バス)は何時に _____ に着きますか?
  • Do you have rooms available?: Aiteru heya arimasuka? 空いてる部屋ありますか?
  • How much does lodging for one/two cost?: Hitori/futari-yō no heya wa ikura desuka?一人/二人用の部屋はいくらですか?
  • Is the room Japanese/Western style?: Washitsu/yōshitsu desuka? 和室/洋室ですか?
  • Does the room come with __ ?: Heya wa ___ tsuki desuka? 部屋は ... 付きですか?
  • May I see a room first?: Heya o mitemo ii desuka? 部屋を見てもいいですか?
  • I'll take it: Kore de ii desu. これで良いです
  • I would like to stay for ___ night(s): ___ haku onegaishimasu. ___ 2泊お願いします
  • Do you know another place to stay?: Hoka no yado wa gozonji desuka? 他の宿はご存知ですか?
  • What time is breakfast/supper?: Chōshoku/yūshoku wa nanji desuka? 朝食/夕食は何時ですか?
  • Please wake me at___: __ ni okoshite kudasai.__ に起こしてください
  • I would like to check out: Chekku auto (check out) onegaishimasu. チェックアウトお願いします

Japanese shopping area

As soon as you walk into a retail business or restaurant in Japan, you will be greeted with, “Irrashai maseh” (いっらしゃいませ)! It is a general welcome by employees to all customers, so all you need to do is nod in acknowledgement, if anything. You’ll probably hear the following phrases from the store clerk as you shop:

  • Are you looking for something?: Nani ka osagashi desu ka? 何かお探しですか?
  • Is that everything?: Ijyou de yoroshii desu ka? 以上でよろしいですか?(いじょうで よろしいですか?)
  • Here you go: Hai, douzo. はい、どうぞ

Your responses may include phrases such as: 45. I would like this item: Kore o onegai shimasu. これを おねがいします 46. I would like one of those: Sore o hitotsu onegai shimasu. それを一つお願いします (それを ひとつ おねがいします) 47. How much does it cost?: kore wa ikura desu ka?これは いくらですか? 48. Do you accept a credit card?: Kureditto kaado (credit card) o tsukaemasuka? クレジットカードを使えますか?

Japanese food

Dining out provides lots of opportunity to practice your Japanese, but it is also an activity that can be quite different in Japan. Do some research before you go to learn as much as you can, and then enjoy Japan’s world-famous food!

  • Space for one person/two people, please: Hitori/futari desu. 一人/二人です.
  • Please bring a menu: Menu o kudasai. メニューを下さい。
  • Is there a house specialty? O-susume wa arimasuka? お勧めはありますか?
  • Fixed-price meal: Teishoku. 定食
  • A la carte: Ippinryōri. 一品料理
  • Breakfast: Chōshoku. 朝食
  • Lunch: Chūshoku. 昼食
  • Light meal: Keishoku. 軽食
  • Supper: Yūshoku. 夕食
  • Beverage: Nomimono. 飲み物
  • I want a dish containing __ : __ ga haitteru mono o kudasai. __ が入ってるものを下さい。
  • Chopsticks: ohashi. お箸
  • It was delicious: Oishikatta desu. おいしかったです
  • Excuse me: Sumimasen. 済みません
  • May I have the check, please? Okaikeh onegai shimasu. お会計お願いします
  • Do you serve alcohol? Osakeh arimasuka? お酒ありますか?
  • Sake: Nihonshu. 日本酒
  • Japanese liquor: Shōchū.焼酎
  • Whiskey: Wiskii. ウイスキー
  • Water: Mizu. 水
  • Club soda: Sōda: ソーダ
  • Coffee: Co-hii. コーヒー (こーひー)

Clock

Time and Numbers

You may encounter military time in Japan, or the terms “gozen” 午前 for a.m. and “gogo” 午後 for p.m. Check out this resource for some additional explanation; this topic can get tricky. Also, remember that the Japanese readings “yon” and “nana” are often used for 4 and 7 due to superstition about the translation (“shi,” used in another reading for both those numbers, translates as death).

  • Six o'clock a.m.: Asa rokuji. 朝6時
  • Noon: Shōgo. 正午
  • One o'clock p.m.: Gogo ichiji. 午後1時
  • Midnight: Yoru jūniji: 夜12時
  • ___ minute(s): ___ foon or poon. 分
  • ___ hour(s): ___ jikan. 時間
  • ___ day(s): ___ nichi. 日
  • ___ week(s): ___ shūkan. 週間
  • ___ month(s): ___ kagetsu. ヶ月
  • ___ year(s): ___ nen. 年
  • 4: Yon or shi. 四
  • 7: Nana or shichi. 七
  • 8: Hachi. 八
  • Now: Ima. 今
  • Later: Atodeh. 後で
  • Before: Maeh ni. 前に
  • Morning: Asa. 朝
  • Afternoon: Gogo. 午後
  • Evening: Yūgata. 夕方
  • Night: Yoru. 夜

Woman in a kimono walking away

Words or Phrases to Avoid

These phrases can convey disrespect. You don’t want to offend anyone, especially people you don’t know, so make sure to avoid these terms, even if you hear them being tossed around in your favorite anime.

  • Doing something untimely: Manuke. まぬけ
  • Drop dead!: Kutabare. くたばれ
  • Move out of the way!: Doke. どけ
  • Noisy!: Urusai.うるさい

Japanese shrine gate tunnel

Enjoy Your Trip!

As you prepare to travel in Japan, use Speechling’s pronunciation tools to master the phrases provided on this list. Review The Top 5 Pronunciation Mistakes English Speakers Make in Japanese Lessons , too, and then the Top 100 Basic Japanese Words for Beginners for additional words that weren’t included in this list. Native speakers will appreciate the effort you took to use Japanese words and phrases, even if they aren’t perfect!

Speechling is a nonprofit app and website that combines human coaching with technology to improve your foreign language speaking.

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Japanese Common Words: What to say while travelling in Japan

travel japanese translation

Are you planning on traveling Japan soon , but you don’t know any Japanese?  Or are you looking to learn some Japanese common words that can help you get around in Japan?

Then this blog is right up your alley, with some simple Japanese travel words as well as some transportation related phrases to help you get around Japan!

In this article, we will review the basic travel Japanese phrases Nakamura sensei teaches in the video below.

Beginner Japanese Travel Phrases – Basic Vocabulary

Before getting into some more difficult phrases, let’s take a look at some basic travel Japanese words in the appropriate context.  You may already be familiar with this vocabulary.

However Japanese words often carry slightly different meanings in different contexts.

So let’s look at some vocabulary!

大丈夫/だいじょうぶ/Daijoubu

The video below depicts a traveling Nakamura-sensei searching for their passport.

“Daijoubu” meaning “ok” or “fine”.   This extremely handy phrase is used in all sorts of situations in Japan!  And travel scenarios are no exception.

だいじょうぶですか? Daijoubu desu ka? Is everything ok/Are you ok?

はい、だいじょうぶです! Hai, daijoubu desu! Yes, I’m fine/Everything is fine!

すみません・すいません/Sumimasen ・ suimasen

“Sumimasen” meaning “please excuse me” or “pardon me”.  Another common phrase heard in various contexts in Japan!

Nakamura-sensei almost forgot her passport – but luckily the attendant got her attention with “sumimasen”. すみません、お客様! Sumimasen, okyaku sama! Excuse me, miss! And how did Nakamura-sensei respond?

ありがとうございます/Arigatou gozaimasu

“Arigatou gozaimasu” meaning “thank you” – this is a polite expression of gratitude.  The casual form shortens to “arigatou”.

え? あー、すいません、ありがとうございます! Eh? Ah-, suimasen, arigatou gozaimasu! Hm? Oh, excuse me, thank you!

Perhaps a direct translation of this exchange into English sounds a bit rigid or stiff – but that’s part of what makes polite Japanese – or keigo language – polite.

どうぞ・おさきにどうぞ/ Douzo ・ O saki ni douzo

“Douzo” meaning “please” – to offer someone a favor.  “O saki ni douzo” is a way to say “after you”, and is an appropriate phrase to use with strangers.

“O saki ni” roughly translates to “first”. So it’s a little bit like saying “you first”! Now that we have reviewed these basic words, let’s dig into some phrases!

Simple Travel Japanese Phrases

タクシーのりばはどこですか? Where is the taxi platform?

To understand how to use this phrase, let’s first break it down. タクシー (takushii) of course means “taxi”, and のりば (noriba) is a “terminal” or “platform”.  So タクシーのりば is a taxi stop or taxi platform. 

は (wa) is the grammar particle identifying the taxi stop as the subject of the sentence.  You can read more about は in this blog post about Japanese grammar particles !

〜はどこですか? Where is~?

〜はどこですか (doko desu ka) is a useful question ending that simply means “where is~?”  “Doko” means where and “desu ka” is the to be verb.  The か (ka) indicates it is a question.

This phrase can be used with all sorts of other places or items, travel-related or otherwise.  Below is a short vocabulary list of some travel-related words you can use with 〜はどこですか?

バスのりば – basu noriba – bus stop 駅(えき) – eki – train station トイレ – toire – washroom, bathroom 3番線 (さんばんせん)- san ban sen – platform number 3

You can replace 3番線 with any number necessary to refer to whichever platform you need. That’s all for today’s blog!  Remember to watch the video and subscribe 🙂

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Related posts:

  • Taking Pictures – How to ask for Permission to take Photos in Japanese
  • A Japanese word for May: Gogatsu byou
  • Japanese Essentials: How to Ask For Directions in Japanese
  • Japanese Learning Goal Tracking Spreadsheet for Your Journey

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20 Essential Travel Japanese Phrases (& FREE PDF sheet)

If you’re worried about going to Japan without speaking Japanese – don’t worry. In most major cities many English signs can be seen and some restaurants offer English menus.

However, there will be some situations where you need to go by pointing, gesturing, nodding etc, and having a few key phrases up your sleeve will certainly be helpful.

No time to ‘study’ Japanese? No problem! This is a mini travel Japanese lesson as well as a phrase list which will help you to build on your previous knowledge without involving any complicated sentence structures. The aim of this list is ‘simple and ready to be used’ rather than ‘complicated and forgotten already’.

I have also divided the list in different levels according to the frequency of use (strictly my personal opinion!) so you can choose how much or how little you want to learn.

Level 1 Sushi level (It’s not Suzie, it’s Sushi.)

ありがとうございます Arigato-gozaimas

You will find yourself saying this one often. I think this is one of the most important Japanese words also for the Japanese and you will probably hear local people saying this to one another a lot. So, don’t be shy with your ‘ arigato-gozaimas ‘, say it as often as you want – we love it! If you find it too much of a mouthful, the short and informal ‘ arigato ‘ should do.

2. Excuse me/Sorry

すみません Sumimasen

When you want to get someone’s attention; in a restaurant, a shop, train station, asking a stranger on a street for direction etc… The word can also mean ‘sorry’ and listeners will usually know which one you mean in the context.

おねがいします O’negai shimas

Use this in conjunction with finger-pointing and/or gestures to make requests in restaurants, shops and such. Ie: saying ‘ o’negai shimas ‘ whilst pointing at writing (or a photo of) ‘tall caramel latte macchiato’ means you’re saying ‘tall caramel latte macchiato please.’

If you’re up for a challenge, use 〜 o o’negai shimas (〜を おねがいします) format,

ie: Ko-hi- o o’negai shimas , ( coffee please).

Check-in o o’negai shimas , ( check-in please).

いいえ Iie (it’s an [i:] sound as in ‘feel’, then ‘e’ as in ‘end’)

6. Where is〜?

〜はどこですか   〜wa doko des ka

Insert the destination of your choice and you’re good to go, ie: toire wa doko des ka , (where is the toilet ?)

Other useful words:

  • Police box 交番 Ko-ban
  • Bank 銀行 Ginko
  • Convenience store コンビニ Kon’bini (Japanese convenience store is a legend. You can pay your bills, buy bus tickets or concert tickets, and so much more. It goes without saying that most of your daily essentials can be purchased here. Trust me, you will want to take one home.)
  • Train station 駅 Eki
  • Bus stop バス停 Basu-tei

7. How much?

いくらですか Ikura des ka

Just in case. Sometimes ¥100 store giant Daiso has things that are ¥300, ¥500… (although they are always clearly labeled!!)

8. Do you have〜?/Is there〜?

〜は ありますか 〜wa arimas ka

When you are looking for that super-rare Nintendo game in Akihabara ( Virtual Bowling wa arimas ka ), or if you are that person who asks for cappuccino in a Japanese tea specialist cafe ( cappuccino wa arimas ka ). Can also be used when you want to know if a place has certain facilities like toilet, ( toire wa arimas ka ).

In English please? 英語でおねがいします Eigo de o’negai shimas .

If you’re desperate, just omit the ‘de’ and say ‘ eigo o’negai shimas !’ Not grammatically correct, but people will understand. I can not guarantee their ability to speak in English though.

Do you have an English menu? 英語のメニューはありますか Eigo no menu wa arimas ka (here comes that ‘ 〜wa arimas ka ‘ structure again).

10. Good-bye

さようなら Sayo-nara

There is this beautiful old Japanese song called ‘Sayonara (1979)’ by a band called Off Course, but I digress…

11. Numbers

Here is the super easy way to learn Japanese numbers 0 – 99. Worried that you might forget? Don’t worry, wear them on a T-shirt!

travel japanese translation

I hope you’re enjoying learning Japanese with this list so far. If you would like a free PDF version you can download from here , AND it comes with 5 extra phrases!

Japanese travel phrases

The next level is Onigiri rica ball level…

Level 2 Onigiri rice ball level

(you know onigiri is not sushi and can name at least 3 different classic onigiri fillings.).

〜 まで   〜made (NOT as in ‘made in Japan’, it’s ma’de.)

Will be handy when you want to express where you’re heading. For example at the train station: ‘ Kyoto ma’de ( des )’ which is ‘To Kyoto’ (with des = polite, without des = casual).

In case you want to learn to say ‘A ticket to Kyoto please’ it’s ‘ Kyoto ma’de no kippu o o’negai shimas ‘.

13. What time

Bring up in pitch at the end just a bit to say ‘what time? ( Nan ji ?)’

If you want to say ‘until what time?’ it’s ‘ Nan ji ma’de ?’ This can mean ‘what time do you close?’ and is useful when you need to know the closing time of shops or restaurants.

You learnt ‘ ma’de ‘, now you need to know ‘ kara ‘ as well. How do we say ‘from what time?’ You guessed it, it’s ‘ Nan ji kara ?’

And I can hear your clever brain clicking and thinking: ‘wait, does that mean I can say Kyoto kara – from Kyoto, too?’ That is right!

15. (Does this) go to〜?

〜に行きますか 〜ni iki mas ka

Useful when you want to check if a train or a bus really goes to your destination. ‘ Shibuya ni iki mas ka ? (Go to Shibuya?)’

You can also make a statement out of it simply by taking off the question marker か ka .

渋谷に行きます Shibuya ni iki mas = Go to Shibuya .

16. (I’m/it’s) Ok

だいじょうぶです Daijo-bu des

You’re standing outside the shop waiting for your friend, a keen Japanese person decides that you’re lost and tries to help you, you say ‘ daijo-bu des (I’m ok)’. A waiter accidentally knocks down your bag, nothing is broken, you say ‘ daijo-bu des (it’s ok)’.

Would you like to know how to say ‘are you ok/is it ok?’ Easy! Simply add ‘ ka か’ which is a question marker at the end and say ‘ daijo-bu des ka ?’

17. Is card ok?

カード だいじょうぶですか ka-do daijo-bu des ka

In high-tech Japan, cash is still king. Although cashless options are increasing especially since COVID19, it is always a good idea to bring cash and/or ask the staff if they take card payments. If you want to say ‘can I pay by card?’ it will be ‘ ka-do de hara’e mas ka ?’ but this simple ‘ ka-do daijo-bu des ka ? (is card ok?)’ sentence will do just fine specially when you ask at the cashier.

18. Good afternoon (and kind of ‘hello’)

こんにちは Kon’ni chiwa

You all know this one. Since Japanese does not have ‘hello’, I guess this is the closest as ‘good afternoon’ can be used during the waking hours of most average people.

  • Good morning おはようございます ohayo-gozaimas
  • Good evening こんばんは konbanwa

19. I don’t understand

わかりません Wakarimasen

Please feel free to say this when you don’t understand our ‘Japangrish’.

20. (It’s) different/wrong

ちがいます Chigaimas

Wrong price? Incorrect change? Wrong dish arrived? The room is different to the one you have booked? Say ‘ chigaimas ‘!

Congratulations for coming this far and I hope you found this list useful. Click here to download the PDF version for free (+ 5 extra phrases!) or you can use the form below.

I really hope we can travel to Japan again soon (August 2021). For up to date information, please visit Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan website : https://www.mofa.go.jp/ca/fna/page4e_001053.html

travel japanese translation

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Why Shōgun Had to Be Told in Japanese

The period drama "is a show about translation," co-creator Justin Marks says.

hiroyuki sanada as yoshii toranaga

Telling the story in Japanese was key to the entire show. "It feels like if the show was made 10, 15 years ago, perhaps the decision would lean more on the English language," producer Eriko Miyagawa tells T&C . "I feel like in this day and age, audiences are more open to reading subtitles, and seeing actors who speak their native language deliver the performance. The time was calling for this level of authenticity."

pictured l r hiroyuki sanada as yoshii toranaga, yuki kura as yoshii nagakado cr katie yufx

Having the majority of the show's dialogue be in Japanese, co-creator Rachel Kondo tells T&C , "is an aspect of the show that we are most proud of." She adds, "we are so grateful to FX for entrusting us with the process of learning how to do that and for having the faith in it." For her husband Justin Marks, who serves as showrunner, in addition to being the co-creator, working in Japanese was the "creatively right choice" for Shōgun. "To deny these characters—to deny our story the sophistication that would require us to understand what these Japanese characters are saying, and thus to have it subtitled, would be to sort of cut us at the knees in terms of how interesting this story could be," he says.

The other option was to substitute English for Japanese (in the show, English is used in place of Portuguese). "There's a number of reasons why that doesn't work for us," Marks says. "One reason is that it limits your casting pool: It means that now suddenly you're looking for not the best actors possible, but the best actors from Japanese culture who can also speak English. Now you're very narrow in how you can select—and there's wonderful actors in that pool—but we have hundreds of roles to cast."

As he notes, "This is a show about translation. This is a show about the process by which we don't really fully understand what is being said and then learn, or watch someone translate, giving their angle for what they want. I don't know how you do that if you're substituting it all for English."

tokuma nishioka as toda hiromatsu, yuki kura as yoshii nagakado cr katie yufx

Once they decided to tell the story in Japanese, it wasn't an easy process. Marks and Kondo's writer's room—which was predominately filled with Asian American women, none of whom were native Japanese speakers—operated in English, and then they sent the scripts to a team of Japanese translators. When those scripts came back, producers Hiroyuki Sanada (who also stars as Lord Toranaga) and Miyagawa essentially told Marks and Kondo that the Japanese provided wasn't going to work for dialogue. With Sanada and Miyagawa's supervision, the scripts were then sent to a Japanese playwright Kyoko Moriwaki, so as to "capture the nuance of period piece dialogue with a hint of modernity." Marks recalls that Sanada continued to adjust the dialogue on set, working with the actors to get it right.

For the actors in the show, too, working in Japanese made a difference. Sanada tells T&C , "the language is a very important part of culture," informing body language, tone, and much more. Anna Sawai, who plays Mariko, concurs, saying, "There's a beauty in the language, even if you can't understand it—just listening to it, there's a melodic thing."

The actors also improvised while on set, which further complicated the subtitle process. "What we ended up doing is retranslated what was spoken back into English, so that we could close the gap between what is performed and what is experienced through for the viewer," Kondo says. Often in foreign films, the subtitles are the scripted words—not the precise words the actors actually say. "When performed things change ever so slightly," Marks says. "We wanted to make sure this game of telephone that was being played would be closely polished."

eita okuno as saeki nobutatsu, anna sawai as toda mariko, hiromoto ida as kiyama ukon sadanaga cr katie yufx

The Shōgun team wanted to use subtitles as a way to bring the audience closer to the performances, and in post-production, when the subtitle appeared was a constant discussion. "We would arbitrate: Her face turns on that moment, let's make sure that those are the words underneath her when that happens so that we can feel the same way she does when reacting," Marks says.

Ultimately, when watching Shōgun, it's clear why the show shouldn't be in English: As Marks said, it's a story about what gets lost in translation when two cultures collide.

Miyagawa says that she hopes the decision to work in Japanese means like the tides are turning in Hollywood towards authentic storytelling in period dramas. And that there's evidence English-speaking audiences are willing to watch foreign language films. As South Korean director Bong Joon-ho famously said (through his translator, Sharon Choi) at the Golden Globes when accepting a trophy for Parasite , "Once you overcome the one-inch tall barrier of subtitles, you will be introduced to so many more amazing films."

preview for Shogun - Official Trailer (Disney+)

Emily Burack (she/her) is the Senior News Editor for Town & Country, where she covers entertainment, culture, the royals, and a range of other subjects. Before joining T&C, she was the deputy managing editor at Hey Alma , a Jewish culture site. Follow her @emburack on Twitter and Instagram .

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IMAGES

  1. Japanese for Travelers Phrasebook & Dictionary (9784805313480)

    travel japanese translation

  2. Essential Japanese Phrases for Travel

    travel japanese translation

  3. 20+ Useful Phrases in Japanese for Tourists & FREE Cheat Sheet

    travel japanese translation

  4. Travel 】Top 20 Travel Phrases You Should Know in Japanese|How to speak

    travel japanese translation

  5. Japanese Common Words: Easy Phrases for Travellers

    travel japanese translation

  6. Japanese travel phrases in 3 min #4 "How to get there?"

    travel japanese translation

COMMENTS

  1. The Best Japanese Translation Apps For Japan Travel

    3. iTranslate. This app offers text, voice, and photo translation. While you can translate between English and Japanese, there are around 40 language pairs available. As a bonus, it works offline once you've downloaded the requisite language packs. I tested this with a free trial of the paid version.

  2. How to say travel in Japanese

    What's the Japanese word for travel? Here's a list of translations. Japanese Translation. 旅行. Ryokō. More Japanese words for travel. 旅行 noun. Ryokō trip, traveling, journey, tour, trek.

  3. Google Translate

    Google's service, offered free of charge, instantly translates words, phrases, and web pages between English and over 100 other languages.

  4. TRAVEL in Japanese

    TRAVEL translate: 旅行する, 旅する, 移動する, 進む, 旅行, 旅, 旅行(りょこう)する, 伝(つた)わる, 旅行(りょこう). Learn more in the Cambridge English-Japanese Dictionary.

  5. Unlock the Language: How to Say Travel in Japanese

    These are the most common translations for "travel" in Japanese. "Ryokou" is the term used when referring to the activity of traveling. "Tabi" and "tabiji" are more general terms that can refer to a trip or journey. However, as with most translations, context is key.

  6. Japanese Phrases for Tourists: 116 Essential Phrases for Your ...

    Greetings and Basic Japanese Phrases. I'll provide the hiragana, kanji and romaji for each word, and will explain the use of certain Japanese phrases for tourists in context. 1. Hello — konnichiwa. こんにちは. 2. Good morning — ohayou gozaimasu. おはようございます. 3.

  7. travel

    travel translations: 旅行する, 旅する, 移動する, 進む, 旅行, 旅. Learn more in the Cambridge English-Japanese Dictionary.

  8. Master the Basics: How to Say Travel in Japanese

    One way to say "travel" in Japanese is to use the word 旅 (tabi), which means "journey" or "trip". This word can be used in various contexts, such as when talking about a personal trip or a business trip. Another commonly used term is 旅行 (ryokou), which specifically refers to a trip or journey for leisure or vacation purposes.

  9. How to Say 'I'm Traveling' and Talk About Travel in Japanese**

    In this guide, we'll delve into how to say "I'm traveling" and engage in conversations about travel in the Japanese language. **I'm Traveling:**. 1. **旅行しています (Ryokou shiteimasu):**. To express "I'm traveling," use the phrase "旅行しています.". This straightforward phrase conveys your current journey and ...

  10. TRAVEL

    Translation for 'travel' in the free English-Japanese dictionary and many other Japanese translations. bab.la - Online dictionaries, vocabulary, conjugation, grammar share

  11. Basic Travel Phrases in Japanese (with Etiquette)

    First, we'll discuss the Japanese language and writing styles. Then, we'll cover some essential Japanese travel phrases, including "please", "thank you", "excuse me" and "I don't understand Japanese". Formality in Japanese will be explained, followed by restaurant vocabulary and etiquette. Next, we'll cover certain phrases related to transport ...

  12. JapanesePod101's Essential Japanese Travel Phrase Guide

    English Translation: English, please. This is another important Japanese travel phrase. De is the particle, and in this case it means "by" or "by means of.". The phrase literally translates as "English by please.". You can also say M saizu de onegai shimasu (Mサイズでお願いします) which means "Medium size, please.". 2.

  13. DeepL Translate: The world's most accurate translator

    Download for free. Tech giants Google, Microsoft and Facebook are all applying the lessons of machine learning to translation, but a small company called DeepL has outdone them all and raised the bar for the field. Its translation tool is just as quick as the outsized competition, but more accurate and nuanced than any we've tried.

  14. Free English to Japanese Translation Tool

    Free English to Japanese translator with audio. Translate words, phrases and sentences.

  15. 20 Essential Japanese Phrases for Travelers to Japan

    Asa (朝) - Morning. This one is fairly self-explanatory: asa means morning. While it's no surprise that a food-loving culture like Japan has multiple words for breakfast, one of the most common is asagohan ( gohan literally means rice, but is more generally used to mean food ). 14. Kyou (今日) - Today.

  16. 73+ Essential Japanese Travel Phrases for Tourists Visiting Japan

    Essential Japanese travel phrases. 3.1. Basic Japanese phrases for travelers. Basic Japanese phrases for conversation that showcase politeness and cultural respect, encouraging positive interactions with locals and are a base for every communication. Those are basic phrases to know when visiting Japan.

  17. 37 Useful Japanese Phrases for Tourists & FREE Cheat Sheet PDF

    Best books to learn Japanese. If you're a book lover like me, you may want to use a phrasebook instead of Google Translate to study some extra travel phrases in Japanese. The following books are my top 3 that helped me learn Japanese language basics for my first trip to Japan and subsequent visits. You definitely don't need this many but I ...

  18. 100 Basic Japanese Phrases for Your Trip to Japan

    こんばんは. Konbanwa (pronounced Kon-ban-wah) Good Evening. またね. Mata ne (pronounced Ma-ta-ne) Bye/See you. People may often translate "goodbye" as "sayonara" in Japanese, but this is a much more formal word and tends to have a more permanent tone to it, like a farewell. When speaking casually, "mata ne" is typically used.

  19. 25+ Easy Japanese Travel Phrases for Beginners to Say

    So, here are the most useful Japanese travel phrases. 1. Konnichiwa こんにちは Hello/Good Day. You're probably somewhat aware of this word "Konnichiwa.". A very common Japanese greeting. You can use it to greet people during the day. This means, you wouldn't use it during the morning or evening. 2.

  20. 101 Basic Japanese Words and Basic Japanese Phrases for Travel in Japan

    As you prepare to travel in Japan, use Speechling's pronunciation tools to master the phrases provided on this list. Review The Top 5 Pronunciation Mistakes English Speakers Make in Japanese Lessons, too, and then the Top 100 Basic Japanese Words for Beginners for additional words that weren't included in this list. Native speakers will ...

  21. Japanese Common Words: Easy Phrases for Travellers

    In this article, we will review the basic travel Japanese phrases Nakamura sensei teaches in the video below. Beginner Japanese Travel Phrases - Basic Vocabulary. Before getting into some more difficult phrases, let's take a look at some basic travel Japanese words in the appropriate context. You may already be familiar with this vocabulary.

  22. 255 Useful Japanese Travel Words and Phrases (With Kanji!)

    When paired with other words, the pronunciation becomes bashi. Castle: This is a tricky one. When paired with other words or names, it is pronounced as jou (城). By itself, however, the kanji is pronounced as shiro. The character doesn't change. Castle Keep: Tenshukaku (天守閣). Downtown: Hankagai (繁華街).

  23. 20 Essential Travel Japanese Phrases (& FREE PDF sheet)

    英語のメニューはありますか Eigo no menu wa arimas ka (here comes that ' 〜wa arimas ka ' structure again). 10. Good-bye. さようなら Sayo-nara. There is this beautiful old Japanese song called 'Sayonara (1979)' by a band called Off Course, but I digress…. 11. Numbers. Here is the super easy way to learn Japanese ...

  24. Why 'Shōgun' Had to Be Told in Japanese

    The majority of Shōgun, FX's newest period drama set in feudal Japan, is told in Japanese. That shouldn't be a revelation, or a surprise—it's a story about Japanese history—and yet, it feels ...