A Little Language Goes a Long Way
You can certainly travel in Japan's major cities using only English, but learning a few basic Japanese phrases will enrich your experience immeasurably. A small effort to speak the language is greatly appreciated and will open doors to more positive and memorable interactions with local people.
Essential Greetings
- OhayΕ gozaimasu (γγ―γγγγγγΎγ): Good morning.
- Konnichiwa (γγγ«γ‘γ―): Hello / Good afternoon.
- Konbanwa (γγγ°γγ―): Good evening.
Politeness is Key
- ArigatΕ gozaimasu (γγγγ¨γγγγγΎγ): Thank you (very much). This is the polite form and is always a safe choice.
- Sumimasen (γγΏγΎγγ): This is a magical, versatile word. It can mean "Excuse me," "Sorry," or even "Thank you" depending on the context. Use it to get someone's attention, apologize for bumping into them, or to thank them for a small favor.
- Gomen nasai (γγγγͺγγ): A more direct "I'm sorry."
- Onegai shimasu (γι‘γγγΎγ): Please (when making a request).
At Restaurants & Shops
- Kore o kudasai (γγγγγ γγ): This, please. (While pointing at an item on a menu or shelf).
- Ikura desu ka? (γγγγ§γγοΌ): How much is it?
- Oishii (γγγγ): Delicious! Saying this with a smile after a meal is a great compliment.
- O-kaikei o onegai shimasu (γδΌθ¨γγι‘γγγΎγ): The check, please.
Asking for Help
- Eigo o hanasemasu ka? (θ±θͺγθ©±γγΎγγοΌ): Do you speak English?
- [Place] wa doko desu ka? (γγ―γ©γγ§γγοΌ): Where is the [Place]? For example, "Eki wa doko desu ka?" (Where is the station?).
- Wakarimasen (γγγγΎγγ): I don't understand.