Essential Japanese Phrases for Travelers

Multibhashi

Introduction

Planning a trip to Japan? Whether you're visiting bustling cities like Tokyo or enjoying the serene beauty of Kyoto, knowing a few basic Japanese phrases can greatly enhance your experience. While English is spoken in some areas, especially in popular tourist spots, many locals may not be fluent. Learning essential Japanese phrases will help you navigate through daily interactions with ease and show respect for the local culture.

Here’s a guide to the most useful Japanese phrases every traveler should know.


1. Greetings

  • こんにちは (Konnichiwa) – Hello / Good Afternoon
  • Use this phrase to greet people during the day.
  • おはようございます (Ohayou Gozaimasu) – Good Morning
  • Perfect for early interactions in the morning. You can shorten it to "Ohayou" in casual situations.
  • こんばんは (Konbanwa) – Good Evening
  • Use this in the evening, when meeting someone after sunset.
  • さようなら (Sayounara) – Goodbye
  • Commonly used when parting ways. It’s a respectful way to say goodbye.


2. Polite Phrases

  • ありがとうございます (Arigatou Gozaimasu) – Thank you
  • Showing gratitude is important in Japan. You can say "Arigatou" for a more casual thank you, but "Arigatou Gozaimasu" is more polite.
  • すみません (Sumimasen) – Excuse me / I’m sorry
  • This phrase can be used when you need to get someone's attention, or if you accidentally bump into someone. It’s also useful for politely apologizing.
  • お願いします (Onegaishimasu) – Please
  • When making a request, like asking for assistance or ordering in a restaurant, this phrase is essential.
  • はい / いいえ (Hai / Iie) – Yes / No
  • Simple yet essential responses in daily conversations.


3. Travel-Specific Phrases

  • これはいくらですか？ (Kore wa Ikura Desu ka?) – How much is this?
  • Perfect for when you're shopping and want to know the price of something.
  • どこですか？ (Doko Desu ka?) – Where is...?
  • Use this phrase when asking for directions. For example, "トイレはどこですか？ (Toire wa Doko Desu ka?)" means "Where is the restroom?"
  • 駅はどこですか？ (Eki wa Doko Desu ka?) – Where is the train station?
  • Japan’s train system is extensive, and this phrase will be very handy.
  • 水をください (Mizu wo Kudasai) – Water, please
  • Useful in restaurants when you want to ask for water.

4. In a Restaurant

  • メニューをください (Menyuu wo Kudasai) – Menu, please
  • You’ll need this when entering a restaurant and requesting the menu.
  • これをください (Kore wo Kudasai) – This one, please
  • Pointing to a dish and saying this phrase will help you order in a restaurant.
  • お会計お願いします (Okaikei Onegaishimasu) – The bill, please
  • When you're ready to pay, use this to ask for the bill.

5. Emergency Phrases

  • 助けてください (Tasukete Kudasai) – Please help me
  • In case of an emergency, this phrase will help you call for assistance.
  • 病院はどこですか？ (Byouin wa Doko Desu ka?) – Where is the hospital?
  • If you or someone else needs medical help, this phrase is essential.
  • 警察を呼んでください (Keisatsu o Yonde Kudasai) – Please call the police
  • Use this phrase if you need help from the police.

6. Numbers in Japanese

Understanding numbers can be incredibly useful when shopping or traveling. Here are the basic numbers:

  • 1: 一 (Ichi)
  • 2: 二 (Ni)
  • 3: 三 (San)
  • 4: 四 (Shi or Yon)
  • 5: 五 (Go)
  • 6: 六 (Roku)
  • 7: 七 (Shichi or Nana)
  • 8: 八 (Hachi)
  • 9: 九 (Kyuu)
  • 10: 十 (Juu)


Final Thoughts

Learning a few essential Japanese phrases can go a long way in making your trip smoother and more enjoyable. These phrases will help you communicate better, show respect for the local culture, and enhance your travel experience. Plus, the locals will appreciate your effort to speak their language!

If you’re interested in learning more Japanese, be sure to check out Multibhashi for comprehensive courses and language tools. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to improve your skills, Multibhashi can help you become more confident in speaking Japanese. Safe travels!