Japanese Travel Phrases
Japan is a fascinating travel destination, but the language barrier can feel daunting. The good news is that a handful of key phrases will cover most travel situations. This guide teaches you essential Japanese for airports, hotels, trains, and getting around, with kanji, kana, romaji, and pronunciation for each phrase.
Learn from Your Home Screen
Lingo puts new words on your Home Screen with pronunciation and translations โ so you learn 30 languages without even opening the app.
Essential Polite Phrases
Japanese culture places great importance on politeness. These foundational phrases set the tone for every interaction and will earn you immediate goodwill from locals.
すみません (sumimasen) is the single most versatile word in Japanese travel. Use it to get attention, apologize, say "excuse me" on a crowded train, or even express gratitude. When in doubt, start with sumimasen.
At the Airport and Station — 空港と駅で
Japan's airports and train stations are well-organized but can be overwhelming. These phrases will help you navigate ticket counters, platforms, and information desks.
Practice These Words in Lingo Widget
Home screen widgets, daily vocabulary, and 30 languages to explore.
At the Hotel — ホテルで
From checking in to requesting amenities, these hotel phrases cover the interactions you will have during your stay.
Most Japanese hotels provide amenities like toothbrushes, razors, and slippers. If you need something, say ...はありますか？ (...wa arimasu ka? / Do you have...?). This pattern works for any item you might need.
Getting Around — 移動する
These phrases help with taxis, asking locals for directions, and navigating on foot. Japanese people are remarkably helpful when approached politely.
- 右 (みぎ) migi — Right
- 左 (ひだり) hidari — Left
- まっすぐ massugu — Straight ahead
- 遠いですか？ (とおいですか) Tooi desu ka? — Is it far?
- 近いですか？ (ちかいですか) Chikai desu ka? — Is it close?
- ここはどこですか？ Koko wa doko desu ka? — Where am I? (literally "Where is here?")
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to speak Japanese to travel in Japan?
You can get by in major cities like Tokyo and Osaka with English, especially in tourist areas and train stations with bilingual signs. However, knowing basic Japanese phrases significantly improves your experience, especially in rural areas, small restaurants, and local shops where English is rarely spoken.
Should I use formal or casual Japanese when traveling?
Always use polite (desu/masu) form with strangers. This is the standard level of politeness for interacting with service staff, asking directions, and general travel situations. Casual speech is reserved for friends and family. All phrases in this guide use appropriate polite forms.
How do I say "thank you" properly in Japan?
Use ありがとうございます (arigatou gozaimasu) for the polite form. A quick ありがとう (arigatou) works in casual situations. When someone does something for you at a hotel or shop, the full polite form is always appropriate.
What is the best way to get around Japan?
Trains are the backbone of travel in Japan. The Japan Rail Pass is excellent for tourists. Learn the phrases for buying tickets (切符をください) and asking about platforms. In cities, the subway systems are efficient and have English signage. Taxis are safe but expensive.
Is tipping expected in Japan?
No. Tipping is not customary in Japan and can sometimes cause confusion. Service charges are included in prices at restaurants and hotels. Simply saying ありがとうございます (arigatou gozaimasu) is the best way to show appreciation for good service.