Japanese phrases for a trip to Japan. Preparing for a trip to Japan is also about getting a few basic expressions in Japanese. Although most Japanese speak English in major cities and tourist areas, knowing a few key words will make it easier to interact with locals and enrich your experience.

Salute and Present

In Japan, politeness is paramount. Here are some basic formulas to help you introduce yourself and greet yourself:

  • Hello.
    • Ohayō gozaimasuIn the morning.
    • KonnichiwaIn the afternoon.
    • KonbanwaIn the evening.
  • Good evening.Konbanwa
  • Goodbye.Sayōnara (
  • Thank you:Arigatō gozaimasu (
  • Excuse me.Sumimasen (

Orienting and moving

Getting around Japan is easy thanks to a very efficient public transport network. Here are some useful expressions:

  • Where’s the bathroom?Tooire wa doko desu ka? (
  • Where’s the station?Eki wa doko desu ka? (
  • How much does it cost?Kore wa ikura desu ka? (
  • I’m looking…… o sagashite imasu. (-)
  • I don’t understand:Wakarimasen. (

At the restaurant

Japanese gastronomy is renowned worldwide. Here are some expressions to help you order and enjoy your meal:

  • I want to…… o kudasai. (…
  • The check, please:Okaikei o onegai shimasu. (
  • It’s delicious.Oishii desu.

In stores

Shopping in Japan is a unique experience. Here are some expressions to help you make your purchases:

  • How much does it cost?Kore wa ikura desu ka?
  • I’d like to try…… o tachikakari tai desu. (-)
  • It’s too expensive.Takai desu.

In case of problem

It is always good to be prepared in case of a problem. Here are some useful expressions:

  • Help!Tasukete kudasai! (
  • Call the police!Keisatsu o yonde kudasai! (
  • I’m lost.Michi or mayotte shimamashita. (

Although this list is not exhaustive, it will give you a solid basis for communicating on your trip to Japan. Feel free to use translation apps or conversation guides to enrich your vocabulary. The most important thing is to dare to talk and have fun!

Additional advice:

  • Learn pronunciation:The intonation is very important in Japanese.
  • Be polite:Politeness is a fundamental value in Japan.
  • Use gestures:The gestures can help make you understand.
  • Be patient:The Japanese will appreciate your efforts to speak their language.

To go further:

  • Japanese Online Course:There are many online platforms offering Japanese courses for all levels.
  • Translation applications:Applications like Google Translation or DeepL can be very useful.
  • Conversation guides:Many conversation guides are available in bookstores or online.

By mastering some basic phrases, you will make your trip to Japan even more enriching and memorable.

 

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