Japan is one of the most rewarding travel destinations in the world.
The food, the temples, the trains that arrive to the second, the vending machines on mountain paths, the izakayas packed at 10pm on a Tuesday. It earns every superlative it receives.
Here is what most travel guides get wrong about Japanese for tourists: they frame it as a language barrier problem. It is not.
Japan’s major cities are well-signed in English. Train announcements are bilingual. Hotel staff in tourist areas speak English. You can visit Japan and never say a word of Japanese.
But the travelers who try, even badly, enter a different Japan entirely.
This guide gives you every basic Japanese phrase for tourists you actually need. It is organized by real-life situation.
It includes the cultural context, the non-verbal signals, and the specific scenarios that no textbook covers but every visitor actually faces.
Before Anything Else: The One Word That Rules Them All
If you have the mental bandwidth to memorize only a single Japanese word before your trip, make it this one:
Sumimasen (すみません) — soo-mee-mah-sen
No other word in the Japanese travel vocabulary does as much work. It shifts its meaning entirely based on context, and it works in every situation.
Use it to get a waiter’s attention in an izakaya. Use it when you bump someone with your bag on the Shinjuku subway. Use it when someone holds a lift for you.
Use it to approach a stranger for directions. Use it when you accidentally walk into the wrong area of a temple.
It functions as excuse me, sorry, thank you, and pardon me all at once. It is an instant politeness shield for confused and clumsy tourists.
Japanese travelers on r/TokyoTravel are unanimous: learn Sumimasen first, learn everything else second.
Section 1: Japanese Pronunciation Basics
Japanese looks intimidating.
Three writing systems: hiragana, katakana, and kanji.
But spoken Japanese pronunciation is actually more consistent than English. The five vowel sounds never change.
The Five Vowels
| Vowel | Sounds Like | Example |
| a | “ah” in father | arigato |
| i | “ee” in feet | ikura |
| u | “oo” in moon | sumimasen |
| e | “eh” in bed | desu |
| o | “oh” in hope | ohayo |
The Three Rules That Matter Most
1. The silent u. The u in “desu” and “masu” is almost completely silent. “Desu” sounds like “des.” “Arigato gozaimasu” sounds like “ah-ree-gah-toh go-zye-mas.”
Saying the full u marks you immediately as someone reading from a textbook rather than listening to real speech.
2. The silent i. In words ending in “shi” or “chi,” the i is often reduced.
“Sushi” sounds closer to “sus” when said quickly. “Tabemashita” sounds like “tah-beh-mash-ta.”
3. Double consonants mean a pause. When a consonant doubles, you hold it briefly before releasing. “Kitte” (stamp) has a small stop before the “te.”
“Konnichiwa” holds the “n” slightly. This is not dramatic; it is a brief beat.
Japanese Writing: What You Actually Need to Know
You do not need to read Japanese to travel in Japan. Major signs are bilingual.
However, recognizing a few kanji (Chinese-origin characters) saves real time.
| Kanji | Meaning | Where you see it |
| 入口 | Entrance | Station gates, buildings |
| 出口 | Exit | Station gates, buildings |
| 男 | Men | Toilets |
| 女 | Women | Toilets |
| 禁煙 | No smoking | Restaurants, trains |
| 駅 | Station | Maps, signs |
| 円 | Yen | Price tags everywhere |
| 温泉 | Onsen | Hot spring signs |
Section 2: Greetings and Essentials
| English | Japanese | Pronunciation | Script |
| Hello (daytime) | Konnichiwa | kon-nee-chee-wah | こんにちは |
| Good morning | Ohayo gozaimasu | oh-hah-yoh go-zye-mas | おはようございます |
| Good evening | Konbanwa | kon-bahn-wah | こんばんは |
| Goodbye (casual) | Matane / Ja ne | mah-tah-neh | またね |
| Thank you (formal) | Arigato gozaimasu | ah-ree-gah-toh go-zye-mas | ありがとうございます |
| Thank you (casual) | Arigato | ah-ree-gah-toh | ありがとう |
| Excuse me / Sorry / Thank you | Sumimasen | soo-mee-mah-sen | すみません |
| I’m sorry (genuine apology) | Gomennasai | go-men-nah-sye | ごめんなさい |
| Please (requesting something) | Onegaishimasu | oh-neh-guy-she-mas | おねがいします |
| Please (giving something) | Kudasai | koo-dah-sye | ください |
| Yes | Hai | hye | はい |
| No | Iie | ee-eh | いいえ |
| It’s okay / No thank you | Daijoubu desu | dye-joh-boo des | 大丈夫です |
| Nice to meet you | Hajimemashite | hah-jee-meh-mash-teh | はじめまして |
| Cheers! | Kanpai | kahn-pye | 乾杯 |
The Sumimasen vs Gomennasai Distinction
Both mean sorry but they are not interchangeable.
Sumimasen is used for minor social friction: bumping into someone, interrupting someone, asking someone for help. It is lighter, more common, and socially expected dozens of times a day.
Gomennasai is a genuine, weighted apology for something you actually did wrong.
Using gomennasai for bumping someone on the subway would feel overly dramatic. Sumimasen is the right call.
Section 3: Asking for Help and Directions
| English | Japanese | Pronunciation |
| Do you speak English? | Eigo ga hanasemasu ka? | ay-go ga hah-nah-seh-mas kah? |
| I don’t understand | Wakarimasen | wah-kah-ree-mah-sen |
| Please speak slowly | Yukkuri hanashite kudasai | yook-koo-ree hah-nah-sh-teh koo-dah-sye |
| Please write it down | Kaite kudasai | kye-teh koo-dah-sye |
| Can you help me? | Tasukete kudasai | tah-soo-keh-teh koo-dah-sye |
| Where is…? | …wa doko desu ka? | …wah doh-koh des kah? |
| I want to go to… | …ni ikitai desu | …nee ee-kee-tye des |
| I am lost | Mayoimashita | mah-yoh-ee-mash-tah |
| Left | Hidari | hee-dah-ree |
| Right | Migi | mee-gee |
| Straight ahead | Massugu | mah-soo-goo |
| Near / Far | Chikaku / Tooku | chee-kah-koo / toh-koo |
| Station | Eki | eh-kee |
Practical tip: When asking for directions, show your destination on Google Maps or a printout rather than trying to pronounce Japanese place names.
Point to the screen and say "Koko ni ikitai desu" (I want to go here). Most Japanese people will go out of their way to help, often walking you partway themselves.
Section 4: Transport (Shinkansen, Metro, Bus, Taxi)
Japan’s rail system is world-class.
The Shinkansen bullet train network connects major cities. Tokyo’s metro has 13 lines. It is genuinely easy to navigate once you understand the system.
The IC Card: Your Most Important Purchase
Before anything else, buy a Suica or Pasmo IC card at any major station or airport arrival hall.
This rechargeable card works on almost every train, bus, and many taxis across Japan.
You tap in and tap out. No fumbling for tickets, no worrying about fares.
Top it up at any station machine or convenience store.
| English | Japanese | Pronunciation |
| Where is the station? | Eki wa doko desu ka? | eh-kee wah doh-koh des kah? |
| One ticket to… please | …made no kippu o kudasai | …mah-deh no kip-poo oh koo-dah-sye |
| What time does it depart? | Nanji ni demasu ka? | nahn-jee nee deh-mas kah? |
| Which train goes to…? | …iki no densha wa dore desu ka? | …ee-kee no den-sha wah doh-reh des kah? |
| Does this train stop at…? | …ni tomarimasu ka? | …nee toh-mah-ree-mas kah? |
| I’m getting off here | Orimasu | oh-ree-mas |
| Please top up my Suica | Suica ni charge shite kudasai | Suica nee charge sh-teh koo-dah-sye |
| Bullet train | Shinkansen | shin-kahn-sen |
| Train | Densha | den-sha |
| Bus | Basu | bah-soo |
| Ticket | Kippu | kip-poo |
| Platform | Homu | hoh-moo |
| Reserved seat | Shiteiseki | sh-teh-ee-seh-kee |
| Non-reserved seat | Jiyuseki | jee-yoo-seh-kee |
Taxi
Taxis in Japan are clean, metered, and reliable. Do not tip. The door opens and closes automatically; do not touch it.
Show your destination on your phone rather than trying to pronounce it.
| English | Japanese | Pronunciation |
| Please take me to… | …made onegaishimasu | …mah-deh oh-neh-guy-she-mas |
| Please stop here | Koko de tomete kudasai | koh-koh deh toh-meh-teh koo-dah-sye |
| How much? | Ikura desu ka? | ee-koo-rah des kah? |
Section 5: Airport and Arrival
Narita and Haneda airports are both well-signed in English. These phrases help in specific situations.
| English | Japanese | Pronunciation |
| Where is baggage claim? | Tenimostu uketori wa doko desu ka? | teh-nee-moh-tsoo oo-keh-toh-ree wah doh-koh des kah? |
| My luggage is lost | Nimotsu ga nakunarimashita | nee-moh-tsoo ga nah-koo-nah-ree-mash-tah |
| Where is the exit? | Deguchi wa doko desu ka? | deh-goo-chee wah doh-koh des kah? |
| Where can I buy a Suica? | Suica wa doko de kaemasu ka? | Suica wah doh-koh deh kye-mas kah? |
| Where is tourist information? | Kanko annai wa doko desu ka? | kahn-koh ahn-nye wah doh-koh des kah? |
| Is there a bus to the city center? | Shigai made no basu wa arimasu ka? | sh-gye mah-deh no bah-soo wah ah-ree-mas kah? |
Section 6: The Konbini Register Crisis
This section describes one of the most reliably panic-inducing moments for first-time visitors to Japan.
Japan’s convenience stores (konbini) are extraordinary.
7-Eleven, Lawson, and FamilyMart sell hot food, fresh onigiri, excellent coffee, and almost anything you need at 2am. Tourists visit them constantly.
The problem: the cashier interaction is lightning-fast and highly scripted. The moment you place your items on the counter, you will receive a rapid-fire sequence of questions in Japanese. Every. Single. Time.
The questions almost always follow this pattern:
- “Ponto kaado wa omochi desu ka?” — Do you have a point card?
- “Atatamemasu ka?” — Do you want this heated up?
- “Fukuro wa yoroshii desu ka?” — Do you need a bag?
- “Resiito wa yoroshii desu ka?” — Do you need a receipt?
You do not need to understand the specific question. You need one phrase:
Daijoubu desu (大丈夫です) — dye-joh-boo des
Said with a slight bow and an optional gentle wave of the hand, this means “I’m fine” or “No thank you” in a retail context.
It is universally understood, polite, and efficient. It will get you through every konbini interaction without stalling the line.
| Konbini Question | What They’re Asking | Your Answer |
| Ponto kaado wa omochi desu ka? | Do you have a point card? | Daijoubu desu |
| Atatamemasu ka? | Shall I heat this up? | Daijoubu desu (or Hai if you want it heated) |
| Fukuro wa yoroshii desu ka? | Do you need a bag? | Daijoubu desu |
| Resiito wa yoroshii desu ka? | Do you need a receipt? | Daijoubu desu |
One extra phrase: If you do want your food heated, say “Hai, onegaishimasu” (hye, oh-neh-guy-she-mas) — “Yes, please.”
Section 7: Ramen, Sushi, and Street Food
The Counter Hack (Ignore What Textbooks Teach)
Japanese grammar textbooks obsess over “counters” — complex rules that change how you say numbers depending on what you are counting (flat objects, long objects, people, animals, etc.).
For tourists, this is completely unnecessary.
Use the general-purpose counting words instead:
| Amount | Japanese | Pronunciation |
| One | Hitotsu | hee-toh-tsoo |
| Two | Futatsu | foo-tah-tsoo |
| Three | Mittsu | mee-tsoo |
| Four | Yottsu | yoh-tsoo |
| Five | Itsutsu | ee-tsoo-tsoo |
Combined with pointing at the menu and saying “Kore o kudasai” (This one please), you can successfully order almost everything in Japan without knowing a single counter rule.
Ramen Shops
Many ramen shops use ticket machines at the entrance.
You choose your dish, pay the machine, take the ticket, and hand it to the staff. No Japanese required.
But these phrases help if there is no machine.
| English | Japanese | Pronunciation |
| This one please | Kore o kudasai | koh-reh oh koo-dah-sye |
| One bowl please | Hitotsu kudasai | hee-toh-tsoo koo-dah-sye |
| Less spicy please | Karasa hikame de | kah-rah-sah hee-kah-meh deh |
| Extra noodles | Kaedama | kye-dah-mah |
| Water please | Omizu o kudasai | oh-mee-zoo oh koo-dah-sye |
| It’s delicious | Oishii | oh-ee-shee |
Conveyor Belt Sushi (Kaiten Zushi)
At conveyor belt sushi restaurants, you take plates directly from the belt.
Staff may ask what you want. Show them on the menu or point.
| English | Japanese | Pronunciation |
| Do you have an English menu? | Eigo no menyu wa arimasu ka? | ay-go no men-yoo wah ah-ree-mas kah? |
| What is this? | Kore wa nan desu ka? | koh-reh wah nahn des kah? |
| Please give me the bill | Okaikei onegaishimasu | oh-kye-keh-ee oh-neh-guy-she-mas |
Section 8: Restaurant and Izakaya Phrases
The izakaya is Japan’s version of a gastropub. Loud, warm, communal.
You remove your shoes at the entrance if there are floor seats. You share dishes.
You order repeatedly throughout the night rather than all at once.
Ordering and Table Phrases
| English | Japanese | Pronunciation |
| Excuse me! (calling waiter) | Sumimasen! | soo-mee-mah-sen! |
| Do you have English menu? | Eigo no menyu wa arimasu ka? | ay-go no men-yoo wah ah-ree-mas kah? |
| What do you recommend? | Osusume wa nan desu ka? | oh-soo-soo-meh wah nahn des kah? |
| I’ll have the chef’s choice | Omakase de | oh-mah-kah-seh deh |
| This please | Kore o kudasai | koh-reh oh koo-dah-sye |
| One more of this | Kore o mou hitotsu | koh-reh oh moh hee-toh-tsoo |
| Cheers! | Kanpai! | kahn-pye! |
| Expression of gratitude before eating | Itadakimasu | ee-tah-dah-kee-mas |
| It’s delicious | Oishii | oh-ee-shee |
| The bill please | Okaikei onegaishimasu | oh-kye-keh-ee oh-neh-guy-she-mas |
| Can I pay by card? | Kaado de haraemasuka? | kah-doh deh hah-rah-eh-mas kah? |
| Can we split the bill? | Betsubetsu ni haraemasuka? | beh-tsoo-beh-tsoo nee hah-rah-eh-mas kah? |
The Phrase That Changes Everything: Gochisousama Deshita
Most tourists leave a restaurant saying “Arigato gozaimasu.” That is fine. But there is a better phrase.
As you leave an izakaya, a small ramen shop, or any restaurant where people cooked for you, say:
Gochisousama deshita (ごちそうさまでした) — go-chee-soh-sah-mah desh-tah
It means “Thank you for the feast” or “That was a wonderful meal.”
Directed at the chefs or servers as you walk out, this phrase signals that you understand Japanese dining culture, not just Japanese vocabulary.
The reaction from staff is consistently and noticeably warmer than a standard thank you.
The Silent X: Non-Verbal Signals That Actually Work
Japan has a well-developed body language system for situations where words would be awkward.
The bill X: Cross your two index fingers in an X shape in front of you. This silently signals to your waiter that you want the bill.
It is universally understood and saves you from shouting across a busy restaurant.
The crossed arms no: If a restaurant is full, an item is sold out, or entry is restricted, staff will cross their arms over their chest in a large X shape.
This is not aggressive or rude. It is a clear, polite visual “no.” Do not push past it.
Dietary Needs and Food Preferences
| English | Japanese | Pronunciation |
| I am allergic to… | …arerugii ga arimasu | …ah-reh-roo-gee ga ah-ree-mas |
| Shellfish | Kai | kye |
| Peanuts | Pinatsu | pee-nah-tsoo |
| Eggs | Tamago | tah-mah-go |
| Dairy | Nyuseihin | nyoo-seh-ee-heen |
| Milk | Gyuunyu | gyoo-NYoo |
| Butter | Bataa | bah-TAH |
| Gluten / Wheat | Komugi | koh-moo-gee |
| I am vegetarian | Bejitarian desu | beh-jee-tah-ree-ahn des |
| I am vegan | Bigan desu | bee-gahn des |
| I am pescatarian | Sakana wa tabemasu ga, niku wa tabemasen | sah-KAH-nah wah tah-beh-MAS gah, nee-KOO wah tah-beh-mah-SEN |
| Without meat | Niku nashi de | nee-koo nah-shee deh |
| Without fish | Sakana nashi de | sah-kah-nah nah-shee deh |
| Is this vegetarian? | Kore wa bejitarian desu ka? | koh-reh wah beh-jee-tah-ree-ahn des kah? |
| I eat lactose-free | Nyuuseihin wo taberaremasen | nyoo-SEH-ee-heen woh tah-beh-rah-reh-mah-SEN |
| I eat gluten-free | Guruten wo taberaremasen | goo-ROO-ten woh tah-beh-rah-reh-mah-SEN |
| I don’t drink alcohol | Osake wa nomimasen | oh-SAH-keh wah noh-mee-mah-SEN |
Questions to Ask at the Restaurant
| English | Japanese | Pronunciation |
| Do you have vegetarian options? | Bejitarian muke no menyuu wa arimasu ka? | beh-jee-tah-ree-AHN moo-keh no men-YOO wah ah-ree-mas kah? |
| Do you have gluten-free options? | Guruten furii no menyuu wa arimasu ka? | goo-ROO-ten foo-REE no men-YOO wah ah-ree-mas kah? |
| Do you have lactose-free options? | Nyuuseihin nashi no menyuu wa arimasu ka? | nyoo-SEH-ee-heen nah-SHEE no men-YOO wah ah-ree-mas kah? |
| Do you have non-alcoholic drinks? | Non-arukoooru nomimono wa arimasu ka? | non ah-roo-KOH-roo noh-mee-MOH-noh wah ah-ree-mas kah? |
| Does this dish contain milk? | Kono ryouri ni gyuunyu wa haitte imasu ka? | KOH-noh ryoh-REE nee gyoo-NYoo wah hah-EE-teh ee-mas kah? |
| Does this dish contain eggs? | Kono ryouri ni tamago wa haitte imasu ka? | KOH-noh ryoh-REE nee tah-MAH-go wah hah-EE-teh ee-mas kah? |
| Does this dish contain butter? | Kono ryouri ni bataa wa haitte imasu ka? | KOH-noh ryoh-REE nee bah-TAH wah hah-EE-teh ee-mas kah? |
Important note for vegetarians: Japan uses dashi (fish stock) as a base in many broths and sauces.
A dish listed without meat may still contain fish-derived ingredients. Always ask specifically about dashi: “Dashi wa haitte imasu ka?” (Is dashi included?).
Section 9: Café and Vending Machines
Japan has outstanding café culture and over 5 million vending machines.
Coffee from a vending machine is genuinely good.
Hot canned drinks are marked with a red label; cold ones with blue.
| English | Japanese | Pronunciation |
| One coffee please | Koohii o hitotsu kudasai | koh-hee oh hee-toh-tsoo koo-dah-sye |
| Hot / Cold | Hotto / Aisu | hot-toh / eye-soo |
| Black coffee | Burekkukoohii | boo-reh-koo-koh-hee |
| Coffee with milk | Miruku koohii | mee-roo-koo koh-hee |
| Green tea | Ocha | oh-chah |
| For here / To go | Kochira de / Motte kaeri | koh-chee-rah deh / mot-teh kye-ree |
| WiFi password? | WiFi no pasuwado wa? | WiFi no pah-soo-wah-doh wah? |
Section 10: Onsen and Sento Phrases
The onsen (hot spring bath) and sento (public bathhouse) experience is one of Japan’s most celebrated cultural offerings. Millions of tourists visit each year.
Getting the etiquette right matters because the bathing areas are shared, silent, and governed by clear customs.
Before You Enter
Tattoo policy: Many traditional onsen do not allow tattoos. This is a firm rule at most establishments, not a suggestion.
Check the policy before you go. Some onsen have private rooms that allow tattooed guests; ask “Tattoo ga atte mo hairemasuka?” (Can I enter if I have a tattoo?).
Wash before entering: You always wash your entire body at the individual shower stations before getting into the communal bath. This is not optional.
Towel rules: Bring your small towel into the bathing area (it can rest on your head while soaking) but never put it in the bath water.
| English | Japanese | Pronunciation |
| Where is the onsen? | Onsen wa doko desu ka? | on-sen wah doh-koh des kah? |
| How much is the entrance fee? | Nyuujouryou wa ikura desu ka? | nyoo-joh-ryoh wah ee-koo-rah des kah? |
| Can I rent a towel? | Taoru o karite mo ii desu ka? | tah-oh-roo oh kah-ree-teh moh ee des kah? |
| Can I enter if I have a tattoo? | Tattoo ga atte mo hairemasuka? | tattoo ga at-teh moh hye-reh-mas kah? |
| Where are the lockers? | Rokka wa doko desu ka? | roh-kah wah doh-koh des kah? |
| Mixed / Men’s / Women’s | Konyoku / Dansei / Josei | kohn-yoh-koo / dahn-seh-ee / joh-seh-ee |
| Outdoor bath | Rotenburo | roh-ten-boo-roh |
Section 11: Ryokan Phrases
A ryokan is a traditional Japanese inn. Staying in one is a highlight for many visitors.
The experience includes tatami mat rooms, yukata (cotton robe), multi-course kaiseki dinner, and communal or private onsen. The customs are specific.
Shoes off at the entrance. Always. There will be a step up (genkan) at the entrance where you remove shoes and step up in socks or bare feet.
Yukata etiquette. The yukata provided in your room is worn throughout the inn, including to dinner and to the onsen. Wrap it left side over right (right over left is worn at funerals).
| English | Japanese | Pronunciation |
| I have a reservation | Yoyaku shite imasu | yoh-yah-koo sh-teh ee-mas |
| My name is… | …to moushimasu | …toh moh-sh-ee-mas |
| What time is dinner? | Yuushoku wa nanji desu ka? | yoo-shoh-koo wah nahn-jee des kah? |
| What time is breakfast? | Choushoku wa nanji desu ka? | choh-shoh-koo wah nahn-jee des kah? |
| Is breakfast included? | Choushoku wa tsuite imasu ka? | choh-shoh-koo wah tsoo-ee-teh ee-mas kah? |
| Can I get a late checkout? | Chiokure no chekku auto wa dekimasu ka? | chee-oh-koo-reh no check out wah deh-kee-mas kah? |
| Where is the onsen? | Onsen wa doko desu ka? | on-sen wah doh-koh des kah? |
Section 12: Shopping and Department Stores
Japan’s department stores (depato) are architectural wonders of retail.
The basement food halls (depachika) alone justify a visit.
Staff greet you at the entrance with “Irasshaimase!” (Welcome!) — you do not need to respond to this; it is a general greeting to all customers.
| English | Japanese | Pronunciation |
| How much is this? | Kore wa ikura desu ka? | koh-reh wah ee-koo-rah des kah? |
| Do you have this in another size? | Hoka no saizu wa arimasu ka? | hoh-kah no sye-zoo wah ah-ree-mas kah? |
| Can I try this on? | Shichaku shite mo ii desu ka? | sh-chah-koo sh-teh moh ee des kah? |
| Do you accept credit cards? | Kaado wa tsukaemasu ka? | kah-doh wah tsoo-kye-mas kah? |
| I’ll take this | Kore o kudasai | koh-reh oh koo-dah-sye |
| I’m just looking | Mite iru dake desu | mee-teh ee-roo dah-keh des |
| Do you have tax-free shopping? | Menzei de kaemasu ka? | men-zeh-ee deh kye-mas kah? |
| A bag please | Fukuro o kudasai | foo-koo-roh oh koo-dah-sye |
| When do you close? | Nanji ni shimarimasu ka? | nahn-jee nee sh-mah-ree-mas kah? |
Tax-free shopping: Tourists can claim an 8 to 10 percent consumption tax refund on purchases over 5,000 yen at many shops displaying a "Tax Free" sign.
Bring your passport. Ask "Menzei de kaemasu ka?" at the register.
Section 13: Karaoke Phrases
Karaoke in Japan is private-room karaoke (karaoke box).
You rent a room by the hour with your group. You sing without an audience. Food and drinks are delivered to your room.
It is one of Japan’s best social experiences and completely accessible to non-Japanese speakers.
| English | Japanese | Pronunciation |
| We’d like a room for… people | …nin de heya o onegaishimasu | …neen deh heh-yah oh oh-neh-guy-she-mas |
| How much per hour? | Ichijikan ikura desu ka? | ee-chee-jee-kahn ee-koo-rah des kah? |
| Can we extend our time? | Enchou dekimasu ka? | en-choh deh-kee-mas kah? |
| Can I order food? | Tabemono wo chuumon dekimasu ka? | tah-beh-moh-noh oh choo-mohn deh-kee-mas kah? |
| One more beer please | Biiru o mou ippai kudasai | bee-roo oh moh ip-pye koo-dah-sye |
Section 14: Temples and Shrines
Japan has over 80,000 Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines. Visiting them requires specific behavior. These are active places of worship, not just tourist attractions.
Key etiquette: Bow slightly at the torii gate before entering a shrine. Do not touch sacred objects. Photography may be restricted inside main halls; look for signs. Speak quietly.
At the purification fountain (temizuya): Before approaching a shrine, rinse your hands at the water basin.
Use the ladle to pour water over your left hand then right hand. Do not drink the water.
| English | Japanese | Pronunciation |
| One adult ticket please | Otona ichi mai kudasai | oh-toh-nah ee-chee mye koo-dah-sye |
| Is photography allowed? | Shashin o totte mo ii desu ka? | sha-sheen oh tot-teh moh ee des kah? |
| When does it open / close? | Nanji ni aite imasu ka? | nahn-jee nee eye-teh ee-mas kah? |
| Where is the entrance? | Iriguchi wa doko desu ka? | ee-ree-goo-chee wah doh-koh des kah? |
| Is there an English guide? | Eigo no gaido wa arimasu ka? | ay-go no gye-doh wah ah-ree-mas kah? |
| How much is the entrance fee? | Nyuujouryou wa ikura desu ka? | nyoo-joh-ryoh wah ee-koo-rah des kah? |
Section 15: Accommodation Phrases
| English | Japanese | Pronunciation |
| I have a reservation | Yoyaku shite imasu | yoh-yah-koo sh-teh ee-mas |
| My name is… | …to moushimasu | …toh moh-sh-ee-mas |
| Is breakfast included? | Choushoku wa tsuite imasu ka? | choh-shoh-koo wah tsoo-ee-teh ee-mas kah? |
| What time is checkout? | Chekku auto wa nanji desu ka? | check out wah nahn-jee des kah? |
| The room is too hot / cold | Heya ga atsui / samui desu | heh-yah ga at-soo-ee / sah-moo-ee des |
| The WiFi is not working | WiFi ga tsunagarimasen | WiFi ga tsoo-nah-gah-ree-mah-sen |
| Can I have extra towels? | Taoru o mou ichimei itadakemasu ka? | tah-oh-roo oh moh ee-chee-meh-ee ee-tah-dah-keh-mas kah? |
| Where is the elevator? | Erebeetaa wa doko desu ka? | eh-reh-beh-tah wah doh-koh des kah? |
| What is the WiFi password? | WiFi no pasuwado wa nan desu ka? | WiFi no pah-soo-wah-doh wah nahn des kah? |
Section 16: For Women Travelers
Pharmacy and Feminine Health
Pharmacies in Japan (薬局, yakkyoku) are clean, well-stocked, and widely available. Large chains like Matsumoto Kiyoshi are in most shopping areas.
Staff may not speak English but will help you find products if you use the phrases below.
| English | Japanese | Pronunciation |
| Where is the pharmacy? | Yakkyoku wa doko desu ka? | yak-kyoh-koo wah doh-koh des kah? |
| I need sanitary pads | Seirinapukin ga hoshii desu | seh-ee-ree-nah-poo-keen ga hoh-shee des |
| I need tampons | Tanpon ga hoshii desu | tahn-pohn ga hoh-shee des |
| I have menstrual cramps | Seiri tsuu ga arimasu | seh-ee-ree tsoo ga ah-ree-mas |
| I need pain relief | Itamidome ga hoshii desu | ee-tah-mee-doh-meh ga hoh-shee des |
| I need a pregnancy test | Ninshin kensa ga hoshii desu | neen-sheen ken-sah ga hoh-shee des |
| Do I need a prescription? | Shohousen ga hitsuyou desu ka? | shoh-hoh-sen ga hee-tsoo-yoh des kah? |
| I need to see a female doctor | Josei no isha ni mite moraitai desu | joh-seh-ee no ee-sha nee mee-teh moh-rye-tye des |
Safety Phrases
| English | Japanese | Pronunciation |
| Leave me alone | Hottoite kudasai | hot-toh-ee-teh koo-dah-sye |
| Go away | Atchii ite | at-chee ee-teh |
| Help! | Tasukete! | tah-soo-keh-teh! |
| Call the police | Keisatsu o yonde kudasai | keh-ee-sah-tsoo oh yohn-deh koo-dah-sye |
Safety note: Japan is one of the world’s safest countries for solo female travelers. That said, crowded trains during rush hour in Tokyo can involve unwanted contact.
Many subway cars have women-only carriages, marked clearly in pink, operating during morning rush hours (typically 7:30 to 9am). Look for the sign on the platform.
Section 17: Emergency and Medical Phrases
Emergency numbers in Japan:
- 110 — Police
- 119 — Ambulance and fire
- #7119 — Non-emergency medical consultation (Tokyo; English speakers available)
| English | Japanese | Pronunciation |
| Help! | Tasukete! | tah-soo-keh-teh! |
| Call an ambulance! | Kyukyusha o yonde kudasai! | kyoo-kyoo-sha oh yohn-deh koo-dah-sye! |
| Call the police! | Keisatsu o yonde kudasai! | keh-ee-sah-tsoo oh yohn-deh koo-dah-sye! |
| I need a doctor | Isha ga hitsuyou desu | ee-sha ga hee-tsoo-yoh des |
| Where is the hospital? | Byouin wa doko desu ka? | byoh-een wah doh-koh des kah? |
| Where is the pharmacy? | Yakkyoku wa doko desu ka? | yak-kyoh-koo wah doh-koh des kah? |
| I feel unwell | Guai ga warui desu | goo-eye ga wah-roo-ee des |
| I have a fever | Netsu ga arimasu | neh-tsoo ga ah-ree-mas |
| It hurts here | Koko ga itai desu | koh-koh ga ee-tye des |
| I am allergic to… | …arerugii ga arimasu | …ah-reh-roo-gee ga ah-ree-mas |
| I’ve been robbed | Dorobou ni aimashita | doh-roh-boh nee eye-mash-tah |
| I lost my passport | Pasupooto o nakushimashita | pah-soo-poh-toh oh nah-koo-sh-mash-tah |
Section 18: Numbers, Time and Days
Numbers
| Number | Japanese | Pronunciation |
| 1 | Ichi | ee-chee |
| 2 | Ni | nee |
| 3 | San | sahn |
| 4 | Shi / Yon | shee / yohn |
| 5 | Go | goh |
| 6 | Roku | roh-koo |
| 7 | Shichi / Nana | shee-chee / nah-nah |
| 8 | Hachi | hah-chee |
| 9 | Ku / Kyuu | koo / kyoo |
| 10 | Juu | joo |
| 100 | Hyaku | hyah-koo |
| 1,000 | Sen | sen |
| 10,000 | Man | mahn |
General counting (use these for ordering food):
One: Hitotsu, Two: Futatsu, Three: Mittsu, Four: Yottsu, Five: Itsutsu
Time
| English | Japanese | Pronunciation |
| What time is it? | Ima nanji desu ka? | ee-mah nahn-jee des kah? |
| Morning / Evening / Night | Asa / Yuugata / Yoru | ah-sah / yoo-gah-tah / yoh-roo |
| Today / Tomorrow / Yesterday | Kyou / Ashita / Kinou | kyoh / ah-sh-tah / kee-noh |
| Now / Later | Ima / Ato de | ee-mah / ah-toh deh |
Days of the Week
| English | Japanese |
| Monday | Getsuyoubi |
| Tuesday | Kayoubi |
| Wednesday | Suiyoubi |
| Thursday | Mokuyoubi |
| Friday | Kin’youbi |
| Saturday | Doyoubi |
| Sunday | Nichiyoubi |
Section 19: Japanese Holiday Phrases to Know for Travelers
| English | Japanese | Romanization |
|---|---|---|
| Happy New Year (New Year’s Eve) | 良いお年を | Yoi otoshi o |
| Happy New Year (New Year’s Day onward) | あけましておめでとうございます | Akemashite omedetou gozaimasu |
| Merry Christmas | メリークリスマス | Merī Kurisumasu |
| Happy Birthday | お誕生日おめでとうございます | Otanjoubi omedetou gozaimasu |
| Congratulations | おめでとうございます | Omedetou gozaimasu |
| Best wishes | お幸せに | Oshiawase ni |
| Have a good holiday | 良い休日を | Yoi kyuujitsu o |
| Happy Golden Week | 良いゴールデンウィークを | Yoi Gooruden Wiiku o |
Travel tip: Japan has two New Year phrases and using the wrong one at the wrong time is a common tourist mistake. Use "Yoi otoshi o" (良いお年を) before midnight on December 31st.
Switch to "Akemashite omedetou gozaimasu" from January 1st onward.
Also note that Golden Week (late April to early May) is Japan's biggest holiday period. Transport and accommodation book out months in advance.
Quick-Reference Cheat Sheet
Survival Essentials
| Situation | Japanese |
| Excuse me / Sorry / Thank you | Sumimasen |
| Hello (daytime) | Konnichiwa |
| Thank you | Arigato gozaimasu |
| Please | Onegaishimasu |
| Yes / No | Hai / Iie |
| No thank you / I’m fine | Daijoubu desu |
| I don’t understand | Wakarimasen |
| Do you speak English? | Eigo ga hanasemasu ka? |
| Help! | Tasukete! |
Food and Drink
| Situation | Japanese |
| This please | Kore o kudasai |
| One of this please | Kore o hitotsu kudasai |
| Delicious! | Oishii! |
| Before eating | Itadakimasu |
| Leaving a restaurant | Gochisousama deshita |
| Bill please | Okaikei onegaishimasu |
| Cheers! | Kanpai! |
| I am allergic to… | …arerugii ga arimasu |
Konbini Register
| Situation | Japanese |
| No thank you (to any question) | Daijoubu desu |
| Yes please (to heating food) | Hai, onegaishimasu |
Getting Around
| Situation | Japanese |
| Where is…? | …wa doko desu ka? |
| I want to go to… | …ni ikitai desu |
| I’m getting off here | Orimasu |
| Please stop here (taxi) | Koko de tomete kudasai |
| I am lost | Mayoimashita |
Onsen
| Situation | Japanese |
| Entrance fee? | Nyuujouryou wa ikura? |
| Can I enter with a tattoo? | Tattoo ga atte mo hairemasuka? |
Women Travelers
| Situation | Japanese |
| I need sanitary pads | Seirinapukin ga hoshii desu |
| I need tampons | Tanpon ga hoshii desu |
| Leave me alone | Hottoite kudasai |
| Call the police | Keisatsu o yonde kudasai |
Emergencies
| Situation | Japanese |
| Police | 110 |
| Ambulance | 119 |
| Call an ambulance | Kyukyusha o yonde kudasai |
| I need a doctor | Isha ga hitsuyou desu |
A Final Word: Japan Meets Every Effort with Extraordinary Generosity
Japan is one of the most visitor-friendly countries in the world precisely because its culture is built on consideration for others.
The same values that make Japan so beautiful to visit also make it exceptionally forgiving of linguistic imperfection.
Attempt a phrase and mispronounce it. Bow slightly when you do not know what else to do. Say Sumimasen when you are lost, confused, or just trying to get someone’s attention.
Say Gochisousama deshita when you leave a meal that someone cooked with care.
None of this requires fluency. It requires willingness. And in Japan, willingness is enough.
Tanoshii ryokou o! — Have a wonderful journey! ❤️❤️❤️
FAQ: Japanese Phrases for Tourists
1. What is the most important Japanese phrase for tourists?
Sumimasen (すみません). It functions as excuse me, sorry, and thank you depending on context. You will use it dozens of times a day in Tokyo.
It is an instant politeness signal and the single word most likely to smooth any interaction you have in Japan.
2. Do I need to learn Japanese to visit Japan?
No. Japan’s major cities have excellent English signage, bilingual train announcements, and English-speaking hotel staff in tourist areas.
But learning even five words — especially Sumimasen, Arigato, Daijoubu desu, Kore o kudasai, and Gochisousama deshita — noticeably changes how locals interact with you.
3. What do I say at a Japanese convenience store?
Say “Daijoubu desu” to every question the cashier asks. They are asking about point cards, heating food, plastic bags, and receipts.
“Daijoubu desu” means no thank you in this context and works for all of them. If you want your food heated, say “Hai, onegaishimasu” (yes please).
4. Is tipping done in Japan?
Never. Tipping is not part of Japanese culture and can cause genuine awkwardness. Pay the listed price, say Gochisousama deshita when leaving a restaurant, and that is the complete and appropriate transaction.
5. What should I know about cash in Japan?
Japan is still largely a cash society. Many smaller restaurants, temples, markets, and rural businesses do not accept credit cards. Always carry at least 10,000 yen. The most reliable ATMs for foreign cards are at 7-Eleven stores and Japan Post offices.
6. Can I visit an onsen with tattoos?
Many traditional onsen do not allow tattoos. Some have private rooms for tattooed guests. Always check the policy before going. Ask “Tattoo ga atte mo hairemasuka?” (Can I enter if I have a tattoo?).
7. What do I say when leaving a restaurant in Japan?
Say “Gochisousama deshita” (ごちそうさまでした) as you leave. It means “Thank you for the feast.” This phrase signals genuine appreciation for the cooking rather than general tourist politeness.
The reaction from staff is consistently and noticeably warmer than a standard thank you.
8. Are there women-only train cars in Japan?
Yes. Many Tokyo subway lines have women-only carriages marked in pink, operating during morning rush hours.
The carriages and platform spots are clearly signed. Using them is optional but recommended during peak hours.