9 Phrases to Learn For Your First Japan Trip

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Congratulations on finally deciding to take your first Japan Trip! Traveling to a foreign country can be thrilling, adrenaline pumping and…a little intimidating, especially when the language is different. While there are individuals who do speak English in Japan, from my personal experience the amount is far less than what everyone thinks. I can count on one hand alone the amount of people I could converse with in English! So, to help you feel a little more comfortable and so you can be courteous of another culture, here are some useful phrases!

table of contents:

#1Excuse me/I am sorry
(su-me-ma-se-n)

When To Use:

  • getting the attention of a waiter/waitress or train station attendant
  • When you need to get off a crowded train
  • If you accidentally inconvenience someone

#2 I’m Okay/It’s Okay
(da-i-jo-u-bu)

When To Use:

  • When you want to accept/decline something
  • when wanting to confirm you are doing alright

#3 Please go ahead
(Do-zo)

When To Use:

  • when offering your seat to someone
  • when wanting to let someone go before you
  • when wanting to offer something to someone

#4 How much (is this?)
(i-ku-ra)

When To Use:

  • Asking for the price of an object

#5 I have allergies
(a-re-ru-ge ga a-ru)

When To Use:

  • at restaurants and food stands

#6 I Don’t Feel Well
(ki-bu-n wa-ru-i)

When To Use:

  • Pharmacy
  • convenience store clerk

#7 Do you Speak English?
(Eh-e-go-ha-nah-seh-mah-s-ka)

When To Use:

  • When needing to get specific information

#8 Sorry, I Don’t Understand
(sue-me-ma-sehn, wa-ka-ra-na-i)

When To Use:

  • Any time someone has said something you do not understand

#9 Is Card okay?
(Kaado Da-i-jo-u-bu?)

When To Use:

  • At stores and retail locations.
    (NOTE: most places do not accept card and it is important to carry cash on you.)

Even if you fail to say some of these phrases properly, the fact you put effort into memorizing even a part of the Japanese language will mean a lot to the locals. It shows a certain level of respect and care which many people don’t do. Who knows, maybe it will inspire you to learn more of language like it did with me(The minna no nihongo series is an awesome place to start)! If you want to prepare for your Japan trip even more, you should also check out these Kanji you should know before heading over the big pond too!

Keep expanding and growing fellow wanderers!
Till next time, Wander Responsibly