While Japan has greatly increased a bilingual presence in most public areas (such as subway and train stations), most of its citizens may not be as fluent in English as you would prefer. Language barriers are inevitable in most international trips. By learning a few useful Japanese expressions, you will run into fewer “lost in translation” moments.
Read my previous article of Useful Japanese Expressions While Traveling in Japan to learn greetings, basics, and useful phrases for when dining in restaurants.
Yes, that’s right – Hai, sou desu
No, that’s wrong – Iie, chigaimasu
Is that so? – Sou desu ka?
Are you sure?/Is that true? – Hontou desu ka?
Do you understand? – Wakarimasu ka?
Yes, I understand – Hai, wakarimasu
I don’t understand – Wakarimasen
Umm – Ano
Wait – Chotto/Chotto Matte
How much is this? – Kore wa ikura desu ka?
I will buy this – Kore oh kudasai
Where is…? – … wa doko desu ka?
…subway – chikatetsu
…station – eki
…taxi – takushi
…hotel – hoteru
…toilet – toire
Buy your Official JR Pass and Regional Pass!
Stay connected in Japan with Pocket Wifi!
Arrive in style and convenience with Meet & Greet service!
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