Essential Japanese Phrases for Travelers

You're probably not going to master Japanese before your trip. And that’s no problem!

But… you can start! As they say, the best time to start learning Japanese was 10 years ago; the next best time is right now.

After all, when it comes to learning the language of the country to which you’re traveling, a little bit really does go a long way in Japan.

In this essential travel Japanese language guide, we focus on what you'll likely use, what you'll probably remember & what will actually help you during your time in Japan.

The Truth About Speaking Japanese in Japan

First, some myth-busting: you don't really need to speak Japanese to travel successfully in Japan. 

But if you do speak, even just a little bit, it can help transform your experience in Japan for the better!

It’s true that cities in Japan have excellent English signage, and many Japanese people understand basic English even if they're hesitant to speak it. That said, knowing a few key phrases shows respect and can smooth your daily interactions.

Something else to know: many Japanese people will respond to your carefully practiced Japanese... in English. Don't take this as a rejection of your efforts. It's often their way of making you feel comfortable and practicing their own language skills.

Japanese Pronunciation Basics

Before we get to the phrases, let's tackle pronunciation. Japanese is, it turns out, pretty straightforward in this way.

Vowels are consistent and pure:

• A = "ah" (like in "father")

• I = "ee" (like in "meet")

• U = "oo" (like in "food")

• E = "eh" (like in "get")

• O = "oh" (like in "go")

Consonants are similar to English, with a few exceptions:

• R is a light tap, somewhere between L and R

• F is closer to H with rounded lips

• Double consonants mean you pause briefly between sounds

If you want some examples, head to YouTube or your podcast app and search for beginner level Japanese.

Phrases You'll Actually Use Every Day

The Basic Three

You'll use these three Japanese phrases constantly, so get comfortable with them:

Sumimasen (soo-mee-mah-sen): "Excuse me" This is your Swiss Army knife of Japanese phrases. It means excuse me, sorry, pardon me & thank you. Use it to get attention, apologize for bumping someone or show gratitude for small favors.

Arigatō gozaimasu (ah-ree-gah-toh goh-zai-mas): "Thank you" The formal version of thank you. Don't worry about the casual "arigatō" - the polite form is always appropriate.

Hai (hai): "Yes" Simple and essential. Used to show agreement, understanding or acknowledgment.

Wait, did we use the word “yes” and forget to teach “no”? No, er, well, not exactly… in fact, yes, it was intentional. The word “no” does have a literal translation in Japanese, but it’s almost better not even to learn it – as using the negative response outright can be culturally taboo or a dealbreaker / nonstarter. 

If you’ve ever watched or participated in improv, think of “no” as the death of a scene, and then take that to Japan with you. It’s all about “yes, and…” Keep the dialogue going. If someone asks if you want something (like fries with your burger), you can respond with “kekkou desu” or “daijoubu desu” (“it’s okay” or “I’m fine”, which will clearly be received as a polite ‘no’ equivalent).

Greetings

• "Good morning," (ohayo or ohayo gozaimasu) 

• "Good afternoon" (konnichiwa) & 

• "Good evening" (konbanwa).

Restaurant Survival Kit

Ordering food in Japanese restaurants represents one of your most frequent Japanese language interactions. These phrases matter:

"Kore kudasai" (koh-reh koo-dah-sai): "This please" Perfect for pointing at menu items or plastic food displays. Simple and foolproof.

"O-susume wa?" (oh-soo-soo-meh wah): "What do you recommend?" Restaurant staff usually respond by pointing out popular items or seasonal specials.

"Oishī desu" (oy-shee des): "It's delicious" The staff will appreciate this simple compliment, and it's easy to remember.

"Okanjō onegaishimasu" (oh-kan-joh oh-neh-gai-shi-mas): "Bill please" For requesting the check at restaurants. Though raising your hand and making a writing motion works just as well.

Shopping Phrases

Shopping involves more interaction than you might expect. These phrases help:

"Ikura desu ka?" (ee-koo-rah des-kah): "How much is it?" Though prices are usually clearly marked in Japan, this helps with market shopping or when price tags aren't visible.

"Karādesu ka?" (kah-rah des-kah): "Do you have different colors?" Useful in clothing stores. Point at the item while asking.

"Saizu wa?" (sai-zu wah): "What size is this?" Japanese sizing differs from Western standards, so you'll use this often.

Transportation Talk

These phrases help with taxis and asking directions:

"[Place name] made onegaishimasu" (mah-deh oh-neh-gai-shi-mas): "To [place name] please" Essential for taxi rides. Just insert your destination before "made."

"Chikaidōri wa doko desu ka?" (chi-kai-doh-ri wah doh-koh des-kah): "Where is the nearest street?" Useful when you're lost in the back alleys of any Japanese city.

"Eki wa doko desu ka?" (eh-ki wah doh-koh des-kah): "Where is the station?" When all else fails, find a train station and reorient yourself.

When Things Go Wrong

Medical Issues

In an emergency, English help is available by dialing 119. For less urgent medical needs:

"Kusuri" (koo-soo-ree): "Medicine" A simple word that helps at pharmacies. Point to where it hurts while saying this.

"Netsu ga arimasu" (neh-tsoo gah ah-ree-mas): "I have a fever" Medical professionals understand this common complaint.

Lost Items

"Wasuremono" (wah-soo-reh-moh-noh): "Lost item" Japan's lost and found system is amazingly effective. This word starts the recovery process.

What Not to Waste Time Learning

Skip These Common Phrasebook Fillers

"Do you speak English?" Honestly, this is a big one, really a dealbreaker in a lot of places, as it puts a wall between you and the other person. Instead, you can start by saying “sumimasen, nihongo wakarimasen” (‘I’m sorry, I don’t understand Japanese); and then shift to speaking English slowly and clearly, reading the room to see whether they can follow you.

"Where is the bathroom?" Most public places have clearly marked toilets. The international "toire" sign is ubiquitous.

Restaurant phrases like "itadakimasu" While culturally significant, these phrases aren't expected from tourists. Polite nodding works fine.

Pronunciation Pro Tips

Stress and Intonation

Japanese words generally maintain even stress across syllables. Don't add English-style emphasis to any particular part of the word.

Volume Control

Speaking Japanese phrases loudly doesn't make them more understandable. Keep your voice at a normal conversational level.

When in Doubt

If you're unsure about pronunciation, speaking clearly in English while being polite and showing appreciation for help usually works better than mangled Japanese.

Using Technology Effectively

Modern translation apps can help, but use them strategically:

Google Translate works well for reading signs and menus. The camera function proves particularly useful for deciphering kanji (the “Chinese characters” that make up the bulk of the Japanese written language).

Voice translation apps work best in quiet environments for simple phrases. Don't rely on them for complex conversations or in noisy restaurants.

Breaking Down Barriers & Opening Doors in Japan

A smile and "sumimasen" go a long way in Japan.

No matter how few words you may have learned, or how far off your pronunciation is, the effort you make in Japanese will always be appreciated.

Looking to make the most of your Japan travel experience? Why not book a free consultation with Japan Travel Pros?! Use the handy calendar tool below to get started.