Useful Japanese Phrases for Travelers (with Simple Pronunciation)

You do not need to speak Japanese to enjoy Japan, but a few polite phrases go a long way and are warmly appreciated. Pronunciation is roughly as written; vowels are short and clear.

Greetings & politeness

• Konnichiwa (kon-nee-chee-wah) — Hello / Good afternoon
• Arigato gozaimasu (ah-ree-gah-toh go-zai-mas) — Thank you (polite)
• Sumimasen (soo-mee-mah-sen) — Excuse me / Sorry / (to get attention)
• Onegaishimasu (oh-neh-gai-shee-mas) — Please / I'd like to ask

Getting by

• Hai / Iie (hai / ee-eh) — Yes / No
• Wakarimasen (wah-kah-ree-mah-sen) — I don't understand
• Eigo o hanasemasu ka? (ay-go oh hah-nah-seh-mas ka) — Do you speak English?
• Toire wa doko desu ka? (toy-reh wah doh-koh des ka) — Where is the toilet?

Shopping & eating

• Ikura desu ka? (ee-koo-rah des ka) — How much is it?
• Kore o kudasai (koh-reh oh koo-dah-sai) — This one, please
• Oishii (oy-shee) — Delicious
• Itadakimasu / Gochisosama — (before / after a meal)
• Okaikei onegaishimasu (oh-kai-kei...) — Check, please

In a pinch

• Tasukete! (tah-soo-keh-teh) — Help!
• Byoin wa doko desu ka? (byoh-een...) — Where is the hospital?

Tips for communicating

• A translation app with camera and voice features is invaluable for menus and signs.
• Pointing at photo menus or writing numbers works well.
• A smile, a small bow, and "sumimasen" or "arigato" cover most everyday situations.

Learn even five of these and you will feel more connected — and locals will appreciate the effort.