Just Learn These 12 Japanese Phrases Before You Go (tips from a local)
I live in Tokyo. These are the phrases I use most often.
(psst, don’t forget to pin this for later!)
Japan is pretty English friendly. But learning even just a few core Japanese phrases will get you soooo much further (and make your trip way more memorable and immersive).
I’ve been living in Tokyo (on and off) since 2017. And my Japanese is (sometimes embarrassingly) far from perfect. That’s because if you just learn a few of the core phrases, you’ll be able to handle like 80% of the situations.
So this is my shortlist of the most essential Japanese phrases to know as a traveler.
Let’s do this!
Table of Contents
But First, Do I Really Neeeed to Learn Japanese to Travel There?
Nah. You can get by just fine, especially if you’re staying in Tokyo. Plus, translation apps do a pretty dang good job these days.
BUTTTT, learning even just a few phrases WILL make your trip way better.
You’ll feel more connected to the experience and the locals will give you some serious props. Seriously, even knowing one or two words will get you an enthusiastic “Ehh! Nihongo jouzu!” (Your Japanese is so good!). Even if the compliment does feels a “bit much”, it’s polite and common (and a classic Japanese experience).
So no, you don’t need Japanese. But why not learn some phrases? Travel is all about immersion and trying new things. And the phrases below are super quick and easy to learn.
But honestly, travel phrases are just the start. If you want a full Japan pre-trip checklist, essential apps to have and a longer list of core phrases to know, grab my free Japan Trip Starter Kit (drop your email below).
12 Core Japanese Phrases for Travelers
1. Arigatō gozaimasu
Meaning: Thank you (polite)
Pronunciation: ah-ree-GAH-toh goh-zai-mahs
Use: After purchases, meals, help
Example:
Cashier hands receipt →
“Arigatō gozaimasu.”
2. Sumimasen
Meaning: Excuse me / Sorry / Get someone’s attention
Pronunciation: soo-mee-mah-sen
This is your MVP word.
Use it for:
Getting a server’s attention
Light apology
Asking for help
Example:
“Sumimasen… Eigo wa hanasemasu ka?”
(Excuse me… do you speak English?)
3. Hai
Meaning: Yes
Pronunciation: hi (like “high”)
4. Oishii / Umai
Meaning: Delicious
Pronunciation: oh-ee-shee / oo-my
These two phrases are super common while eating. Usually after tasting the first bite.
And after the meal, you can say:
“Oishii katta” (= that WAS delicious!)
[ka–tta; double “t” is a hard stop]
5. Eigo no menu wa arimasu ka?
Meaning: Do you have an English menu?
Even if you just say “Eigo menu…”, the staff should understand.
And remember to throw in a Sumimasen beforehand! (“Sumimasen, eigo menu…”)
6. ____ eki wa doko desu ka?
Meaning: Where is ___ station?
Example:
“Shinjuku eki wa doko desu ka?”
7. Ikura desu ka?
Meaning: How much is it?
Pronunciation: ee-koo-rah dess kah
8. Wi-Fi wa arimasu ka?
Meaning: Do you have Wi-Fi?
9. Daijōbu desu
Meaning: I’m okay / It’s fine / Are you okay?
Pronunciation: die-joh-boo dess
Besides “Hai”, this is probably the most popular (and super useful) phrase to use. You don’t even need to say “desu” either. It’s more polite and complete, but you can just say “Daijoubu/Daijoubu?”.
10. Tasukete kudasai
Meaning: Please help
Pronunciation: tah-soo-keh-teh koo-dah-sai
11. Itadakimasu
Meaning: Said before eating (gratitude for the meal)
Every single one of my Japanese friends (and expats who moved there) say this before every meal. It’s a staple and will make you look like a true pro.
12. Gochisōsama deshita
Meaning: Thank you for the meal (after finishing)
Use at small restaurants after you finish eating. Usually I say it after paying or when leaving. It’s very appreciated.
If you learn these 12 phrases before your trip (or on the plane), you’ll look like a freaking local.
Once you got the phrases down, it’s time to sort out the rest of your trip.
My Japan Itinerary Builder creates a fully personalized itinerary around your travel style——so you show up knowing exactly what you're doing. Grab the Japan Itinerary Builder →
Alright then, later ✌️
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