Are you planning a travel to Japan? Whether you’re wandering the bustling streets of Tokyo or admiring the serene beauty of Kyoto, knowing a few basic Japanese phrases can greatly improve your experience. While many Japanese people do speak English, there are situations where English might not be readily available. Even so, Japanese locals will kindly guide you. However, grasping a few simple conversational phrases can facilitate smoother communication and even quicker responses when needed. Here are some essential Japanese phrases for your travel to Japan journey.
- Greetings and Expressions of Gratitude:
- Hello. (こんにちは) – Ohayou gozaimasu (おはようございます)
- Goodbye. (さようなら) – Sayounara (さようなら)
- Thank you. (ありがとう) – Arigatou (ありがとう)
- Yes, no: はい (Hai), いいえ (Iie)
- Requesting Help and Understanding:
- Excuse me, do you speak English? (すみません、英語を話せますか？) – Sumimasen, Eigo o hanasemasu ka?
- I don’t understand. (わかりません) – Wakarimasen (わかりません)
- Ordering at Restaurants:
- May I have the menu, please? (メニューをください) – Menyu o kudasai (メニューをください)
- I’ll have this, please. (これをください) – Kore o kudasai (これをください)
- Could I have the bill, please? (お会計をください) – Okaikei o kudasai (お会計をください)
- Asking for Directions and Guidance:
- I’m lost. (道に迷いました) – Michi ni mayoimashita (道に迷いました)
- Where is this place? (ここはどこですか？) – Koko wa doko desu ka?
- Could you show me the map, please? (地図を見せてください) – Chizu o misete kudasai (地図を見せてください)
- Shopping and Price Inquiries:
- How much is this? (これはいくらですか？) – Kore wa ikura desu ka?
- Could you make it a bit cheaper, please? (少し安くしてください) – Sukoshi yasuku shite kudasai (少し安くしてください)
- Emergency Situations and Seeking Help:
- Help! (助けてください！) – Tasukete kudasai! (助けてください！)
- Where is the police station? (警察署はどこですか？) – Keisatsusho wa doko desu ka?
- Commonly Used Words:
- Restroom (トイレ) – Toire (トイレ)
- Train station (駅) – Eki (エキ)
- Hospital (病院) – Byouin (ビョウイン)
- Bank (銀行) – Ginkou (ギンコウ)
These basic Japanese phrases will prove invaluable during your trip. Remember, making an effort to speak the local language can go a long way in connecting with the people and culture of Japan. Have a fantastic journey filled with unforgettable experiences!