Must-Know Japanese Phrases Before Your Trip!

2025-07-17

Planning a trip to Japan?
Whether you're exploring the bustling streets of Tokyo or visiting ancient temples in Kyoto, knowing a few simple Japanese phrases can make your journey smoother and more enjoyable. In this article, we’ll share useful Japanese expressions along with helpful travel tips for navigating convenience stores, transportation, and sightseeing spots in Japan.

Japanese Phrase (Romaji): English Meaning

• こんにちは (Konnichiwa): Hello / Good afternoon
• おはようございます (Ohayou gozaimasu): Good morning
• こんばんは (Konbanwa): Good evening
• ありがとう (Arigatou): Thank you
• すみません (Sumimasen): Excuse me / I'm sorry
• はじめまして (Hajimemashite): Nice to meet you

Convenience stores like 7-Eleven, Lawson, and FamilyMart can be found everywhere in Japan. They're incredibly helpful for travelers!

• あたためてください (Atatamete kudasai.) = Please heat this up.
• トイレはどこですか？ (Toire wa doko desu ka?) = Where is the bathroom?
• カードで払えますか？ (Kaado de haraemasu ka?) = Can I pay by card?

Travel Tip: You can even buy bento lunches, hot coffee, and sometimes tickets for Expo 2025 at convenience stores!

Try dining at a sushi conveyor belt restaurant, ramen shop, or izakaya! Many places now offer English menus.

• メニューをください (Menu o kudasai.) = Menu, please.
• おすすめはなにですか？ (Osusume wa nan desu ka?) = What do you recommend?
• おいしい！ (Oishii!) = Delicious!
• お会計をお願いします (Okaikei o onegaishimasu.) = Check, please.

Japan’s public transportation is incredibly convenient. Whether you're heading to Tokyo Skytree or Kinkaku-ji in Kyoto, getting around is easy!

• 〇〇はどこですか？ (〇〇 wa doko desu ka?) = Where is 〇〇?
• 駅はどこですか？ (Eki wa doko desu ka?) = Where is the station?
• 電車の乗り方がわかりません。 (Densha no norikata ga wakarimasen.) = I don't know how to take the train.

Travel Tip: The Japan Rail Pass is a great deal for foreign travelers! It allows unlimited travel on many trains across the country.

Don’t worry about speaking perfect Japanese. Just trying to say a few words shows kindness and respect — and it goes a long way! From the ancient beauty of Kyoto to the high-tech buzz of Tokyo, your trip will be even more meaningful with a little language and cultural understanding.