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!
Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links to hotel booking sites. With no additional cost to you, your bookings earn me a commission if you click on the links via my website – Thank you!
Sign up for my newsletter on the sidebar for blog updates and my travel insider tips! And, check out my vlogs on YouTube!
All About Sukiyaki and Where to Have it in Tokyo In its history and today,…
Originally published August 2017 One of the best luxury hotels in Bangkok Bangkok has an…
All About the Filipino Rice Cake. Puto is a classic Filipino merienda food that can…
Originally published September 2017 Complete luxury at the InterContinental Koh Samui Baan Taling Ngam Resort…
Red Wine of Summer. Tinto de Verano, or also seen in Spanish menus as Tinto…
Making the Most of Your Stay in Japan Japan is a destination for non-stop eating.…