Why memorize certain Kanji?
Even with the help of google, getting around Japan without looking clueless can be a challenge, especially if you end up in the more rural parts. Plus, no one wants to be the traveler that looks like they have no clue what they are doing. It feels so embarrassing! But don’t fret, I, the most amazing person ever, have your back. Here are 15 kanji you should know to help you get around Japan like you’ve been there before!
#1 Enter/Entrance
入口 (I-ri-gu-chi)
Commonly found: on doors and signs for waiting in line.
#2 Exit
出口 (de-gu-chi)
Commonly found: on doors and signs for waiting in line.
#3 Do Not Enter
立ち入り禁止 (ta-chii-ri-ki-n-shi)
Commonly found: by construction sites and other unsafe areas.
#4 Smoking Area
煙所 (Ki-tsu-eh-n-jo)
Commonly found: in public areas, trains, and restaurants/bars.
#5 No Smoking Area
禁煙 (ki-n-eh-n)
Commonly found: in public areas, trains, and restaurants/bars.
#6 Wash Room
お手洗い (o-te-a-ra-i)
Commonly found: at temples, restaurants, malls, etc.
#7 Toilet
トイレ (to-i-re)
Technically this is Katakana, BUT still important to know!
Commonly found: at temples, restaurants, malls, etc.
#8 Wait
待ちます (ma-chi-ma-su)
Commonly found: near railroad crossings.
#9 Stop
止まれ（to-me-re）
Commonly found: on road signs.
#10 (number) train platform
番線 (ba-n-se-n)
Commonly found: in train stations
#11 Bus/Taxi area
乗り場 (no-ri-ba)
Commonly found: outside of major train stations.
#12 Subway
地下鉄 (chi-ka-te-tsu)
Commonly found: on the streets by the entrances of subways.
#13 Insert
入れる (i-re-ru)
Commonly found: on ticket machines for train and food tickets.
#14 Push
押す（o-su）
Commonly found: on doors, or by buttons!
#15 Pull
引く (hi-ku)
Commonly found: on doors.
Get to memorizing!
There we have it, 15 kanji you should know if you’re headed to Japan soon. As with everything, practice makes perfect when it comes to learning something so be sure to come back! Not sure what to do while in Japan? Check out 5 things to do in Kyoto!
Have fun out there in the streets of Japan! As always though, be respectful of others and of the culture.
Till next time, Wander Responsibly