Useful Japanese Phrases

Traveling to Japan and want to know some useful phrases to help you out?

Here we will list up some of the most useful phrases that you can use in you day to day travels!

1. こんにちは (Konnichiwa)

• Pronunciation: kohn-nee-chee-wah

• Meaning: Hello

• Usage: Used as a general greeting during the day.

2. ありがとうございます (Arigatou gozaimasu)

• Pronunciation: ah-ree-gah-toh goh-zah-ee-mas

• Meaning: Thank you (polite)

• Usage: Use this phrase to express gratitude in any situation.

3. すみません (Sumimasen)

• Pronunciation: sue-me-mah-sen

• Meaning: Excuse me / I'm sorry

• Usage: Can be used to get someone’s attention, apologize, or thank someone for a service.

4. はい (Hai)

• Pronunciation: hah-ee

• Meaning: Yes

• Usage: Use when agreeing or confirming something.

5. いいえ (Iie)

• Pronunciation: ee-eh

• Meaning: No

• Usage: Polite way to disagree or deny.

6. お願いします (Onegaishimasu)

• Pronunciation: oh-neh-guy-she-mahs

• Meaning: Please

• Usage: Use when requesting something.

7. トイレはどこですか？ (Toire wa doko desu ka?)

• Pronunciation: toh-ee-reh wah doh-koh deh-soo kah?

• Meaning: Where is the bathroom?

• Usage: Useful for finding a restroom.

8. いくらですか？ (Ikura desu ka?)

• Pronunciation: ee-koo-rah des - kah?

• Meaning: How much is it?

• Usage: Use when shopping or dining to inquire about the price.

9. 駅はどこですか？ (Eki wa doko desu ka?)

• Pronunciation: eh-key wah doh-koh deh-soo kah?

• Meaning: Where is the train station?

• Usage: Useful for finding the nearest train station.