Japanese travel phrases can make your trip in Japan smoother and more fun. Here are 20 essential expressions—with English translations and romaji—that every visitor should save before coming to Japan.
Basic Greetings
Polite greetings always leave a good impression. Use these anytime you meet someone in Japan.
- こんにちは (Konnichiwa) → Hello
When entering a shop or starting a conversation. - おはようございます (Ohayou gozaimasu) → Good morning
Perfect for greeting hotel staff in the morning. - こんばんは (Konbanwa) → Good evening
Use this when entering a restaurant at night. - さようなら (Sayounara) → Goodbye
Say this when leaving a place or parting from someone. - ありがとうございます (Arigatou gozaimasu) → Thank you
Must-have phrase when paying at shops or restaurants.
Useful Everyday Phrases
These are the phrases you’ll hear and use everywhere in Japan.
- すみません (Sumimasen) → Excuse me / I’m sorry
Call for attention in shops, or apologize if you bump into someone. - お願いします (Onegai shimasu) → Please
Use when ordering food or asking for help. - はい (Hai) / いいえ (Iie) → Yes / No
Simple but essential responses. - わかりません (Wakarimasen) → I don’t understand/ I’m not sure
Use when you cannot follow Japanese explanations. - 大丈夫です (Daijoubu desu) → It’s okay / I’m fine
Common reply when you don’t need something, e.g., “Do you need a bag?”
Getting Around & Asking Directions
Japan’s transport system is great, but sometimes asking locals helps!
- 〜はどこですか？ (~ wa doko desu ka?) → Where is ~ ?
Example: トイレはどこですか？ (Toire wa doko desu ka?) → Where is the restroom? - 駅まで行きたいです (Eki made ikitai desu) → I want to go to the station
Useful in taxis. - この電車は〜に行きますか？ (Kono densha wa ~ ni ikimasu ka?) → Does this train go to ~ ?
Ask on trains to confirm destinations.
Shopping & Dining Phrases
Make your shopping and food experiences stress-free.
- いくらですか？ (Ikura desu ka?) → How much is it?
Ask for prices in stores or markets. - 英語のメニューはありますか？ (Eigo no menyuu wa arimasu ka?) → Do you have an English menu?
Essential in restaurants. - おすすめは何ですか？ (Osusume wa nan desu ka?) → What do you recommend?
Great for discovering local specialties. - カードは使えますか？ (Kaado wa tsukaemasu ka?) → Can I use a credit card?
Important since some shops still accept cash only.
Emergency and Safety Phrases
Hopefully you won’t need these—but it’s better to be prepared!
- 助けてください (Tasukete kudasai) → Please help
Shout this if you are in trouble. - 病院はどこですか？ (Byouin wa doko desu ka?) → Where is the hospital?
For sudden illness or emergencies. - 英語を話せますか？ (Eigo o hanasemasu ka?) → Do you speak English?
A lifesaver when you’re stuck in communication.
Summary｜Save These Japanese Travel Phrases!
These 20 Japanese travel phrases are your survival kit for Japan.
From greetings to shopping, dining, and emergencies, they cover everything you’ll need for a smooth trip.
👉 Save this guide before your trip and check it whenever you need quick help.
👉 Coming soon: “Shopping Phrases,” “Restaurant Phrases,” and more situation-specific guides!
Click here to check the essential manners for traveling in Japan!
