10/8/24
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5 Min
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Lingosnap Team
Must-Know Japanese Phrases for Your Visit
Ready for an amazing adventure in Japan? From stunning sights to mouth-watering food, Japan has it all. But let’s not forget – a little Japanese can go a long way! Here’s a friendly guide to help you chat with the locals, find your way, and enjoy everything Japan has to offer.
Friendly Greetings and Polite Chat
Want to make a great first impression? Start your interactions on the right foot with these friendly greetings:
こんにちは (Konnichiwa): Hello! Simple, cheerful, and works at any time of day.
おはよう (Ohayou): Good morning! Perfect for those early starts exploring temples or grabbing breakfast.
こんばんは (Konbanwa): Good evening! Great for striking up a conversation while watching the sunset.
ありがとうございます (Arigatou gozaimasu): Thank you! You’ll be using this one a lot – the food, the hospitality, the amazing sights!
すみません (Sumimasen): Excuse me / I'm sorry. It’s your go-to for getting someone’s attention or making a polite apology.
いいえ (Iie): No problem! Want to be the laid-back traveller? This is your phrase.
A cheerful greeting can open doors and hearts – and maybe even score you some local tips!
Asking for Directions Made Easy
Exploring Japan’s hidden gems is half the fun, but getting lost isn’t. These handy phrases will keep you on track:
〜はどこですか？ (〜 wa doko desu ka?): Where is ~? (Fill in the blank with what you're looking for!)
駅 (Eki): Station – probably the most useful word in your travel toolkit.
トイレ (Toire): Toilet – a lifesaver after all that green tea.
Wi-Fiはありますか？ (Wi-Fi wa arimasu ka?): Do you have Wi-Fi? Because sharing those gorgeous temple shots is a must!
右 (Migi): Right – when you need to make that perfect right turn.
左 (Hidari): Left – for those scenic detours.
いくらかかりますか？ (Ikura kakarimasu ka?): How much does it cost? Useful for taxis, tours, or those spontaneous boat rides.
Feeling lost? Just ask, “(Place)~はどこですか？ (~ wa doko desu ka?)” – and you’re one step closer to being back on track.
Enjoying Delicious Food
Japanese cuisine is a dream come true – and ordering it can be part of the fun! Here’s how to eat like a local
おすすめは何ですか？ (Osusume wa nan desu ka?): What do you recommend? This one is magic – it often leads to the best surprise dishes!
水をお願いします (Mizu o onegai shimasu): Water, please. You’ll need it after those spicy dishes.
お会計お願いします (Okaikei onegai shimasu): The bill, please. A polite way to wrap up after enjoying your meal.
美味しい (Oishii): Delicious! Show your appreciation – chefs love hearing this.
いくらですか？ (Ikura desu ka?): How much is it? Handy for when you're tempted by that extra sushi plate.
With these phrases, your dining experiences will be unforgettable – and filled with tasty surprises!
Happy Shopping!
Shopping in Japan is an adventure in itself – from bustling markets to sleek department stores. These phrases will help you get exactly what you want:
これをください (Kore o kudasai): I’ll take this one, please. Whether it’s a cute souvenir or a stylish kimono, this phrase has you covered.
これを見せてもらえますか？ (Kore o misete moraemasu ka?): Can I see this one? Great for those curious finds.
もっと安いものはありますか？ (Motto yasui mono wa arimasu ka?): Do you have anything cheaper? Bargain hunting made easy!
カードは使えますか？ (Kaado wa tsukaemasu ka?): Can I use a credit card? Save your cash for the street food!
Shop 'til you drop – without a language barrier!