When you land in Japan, the airport is your very first challenge. From immigration and customs to baggage claim and transportation, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.
To help, we’ve prepared 20 essential Japanese airport phrases with English translations and romaji. Save this guide on your phone and travel with confidence!
Phrases to Pass Immigration Smoothly
Immigration is your first stop in Japan. Officers will usually ask about your purpose of visit, length of stay, and accommodation. Answering with simple Japanese helps things go faster.
- 観光です (Kankou desu) → I’m here for sightseeing
(When asked about your purpose of visit) - 〇日間滞在します (X-nichikan taizai shimasu) → I will stay for X days
(When asked about length of stay) - ホテルに泊まります (Hoteru ni tomarimasu) → I’m staying at a hotel
(When asked about accommodation) - 友人を訪ねます (Yuujin o tazunemasu) → I’m visiting a friend
(When staying with friends or family)
Phrases to Clear Customs with Ease
At customs, you may be asked if you have items to declare. Knowing a few simple phrases avoids confusion.
- 何も申告するものはありません (Nanimo shinkoku suru mono wa arimasen) → I have nothing to declare
(When you’re carrying only personal belongings) - これはお土産です (Kore wa omiyage desu) → This is a souvenir
(When showing purchased gifts or snacks) - これは個人用です (Kore wa kojin-yoo desu) → This is for personal use
(When items are for yourself, not resale) - 英語で説明していただけますか？ (Eigo de setsumei shite itadakemasu ka?) → Could you explain in English?
(When you don’t understand the instructions)
Phrases for Baggage Claim Troubles
Sometimes luggage doesn’t arrive, or it’s damaged. These phrases help you at the baggage counter.
- 荷物が見つかりません (Nimotsu ga mitsukarimasen) → I can’t find my luggage
(When your bag doesn’t appear on the carousel) - スーツケースが壊れています (Suutsukeesu ga kowareteimasu) → My suitcase is broken
(When your luggage is damaged) - 遺失物カウンターはどこですか？ (Ishitsubutsu kauntaa wa doko desu ka?) → Where is the lost and found counter?
(When you want to report or search for missing items)
Phrases for Getting Around the Airport
After clearing customs, you’ll need to find your way to the city. Whether by train, bus, or taxi, these phrases will help you navigate smoothly.
- 電車の駅はどこですか？ (Densha no eki wa doko desu ka?) → Where is the train station?
(When heading to Tokyo or Osaka by rail) - バス乗り場はどこですか？ (Basu noriba wa doko desu ka?) → Where is the bus stop?
(When using an airport limousine or highway bus) - タクシー乗り場はどこですか？ (Takushii noriba wa doko desu ka?) → Where is the taxi stand?
(When you prefer a direct ride) - ICカードは使えますか？ (Aishiikado wa tsukaemasu ka?) → Can I use an IC card?
(When checking if you can pay with Suica, PASMO, etc.)
Phrases for Counters and Services
Once you’ve settled in, you may need money exchange, tourist info, or Wi-Fi. These handy phrases will help you get what you need.
- 両替したいです (Ryougae shitai desu) → I want to exchange money
(At a currency exchange counter) - 観光案内所はどこですか？ (Kankou annaijo wa doko desu ka?) → Where is the tourist information center?
(When looking for maps or brochures) - Wi-Fiはありますか？ (Waifai wa arimasu ka?) → Is there Wi-Fi here?
(At the airport lobby, lounge, or café)
Japanese Airport Phrases to Start Your Trip Right!
These 20 Japanese airport phrases cover the most important situations: immigration, customs, baggage, transport, and services.
By learning just a few words, you can avoid stress and start your trip with peace of mind.
👉 Save this guide before you travel, and you’ll always be ready at the airport!
👉 Next, check out our upcoming phrase guides for hotels, restaurants, and shopping in Japan.
