Introduction: The "Lost in Tokyo" Fear
Imagine this scenario.
You have just landed at Narita Airport. You feel tired and hungry. You managed to navigate the train system, which is impressive, and now you stand in the middle of a busy street in Shinjuku.
You see a restaurant that smells amazing. You walk in. The staff shouts something at you. You freeze. You realize you don't know how to ask for a table, how to order water, or how to say "thank you" properly.
We have all been there.
Japan is one of the most beautiful countries in the world, but the language barrier is real. While many people in Tokyo speak a little English, relying on it completely can make you feel like an outsider.
Here is the good news: You do not need to be fluent.
Japanese people are kind and patient. They do not expect you to speak perfect grammar. However, making an effort to learn the basics changes everything. It turns you from a "confused tourist" into a "respected guest."
In this guide, I will teach you the survival kit. These are the specific phrases that will help you order food, find the bathroom, and make friends along the way.
1. The "Swiss Army Knife" Word: Sumimasen
If you only learn one word, make it this one.
Forget "Hello." Forget "Thank you." The most important word for a traveler in Japanese is Sumimasen (Su-mi-ma-sen).
Why? Because it means three different things depending on the context:
- "Excuse Me": Use it to get a waiter's attention at a restaurant. Just raise your hand and say Sumimasen!
- "Sorry": Use it if you accidentally bump into someone on the train.
- "Thank You": Use it when someone does a small favor for you, like holding an elevator door. It implies, "Sorry for the trouble you took to help me."
Teacher’s Tip: If you are walking through a crowded station and need to get through, do not push. Just say Sumimasen softly, and people will part.
2. The Real Greetings (Time Matters)
In English, "Hello" works all day. In Japan, greetings depend on the time.
Konnichiwa (Good Afternoon)
- Pronunciation: Kon-nee-chee-wa
- When to use: From 11:00 AM until sunset.
- Note: Many tourists say this at 8:00 AM. Don't do that. It sounds awkward.
Ohayou Gozaimasu (Good Morning)
- Pronunciation: O-ha-yo Go-zai-mas
- When to use: Before 11:00 AM.
Konbanwa (Good Evening)
- Pronunciation: Kon-ban-wa
- When to use: After sunset.
3. The "Magic" Polite Words
Japanese culture is built on respect. Using polite language will get you better service and warmer smiles.
Arigatou Gozaimasu (Thank You)
- Pronunciation: Ah-ree-gah-toe Go-zai-mas
- The Trap: Do not just say Arigatou. That is too casual for strangers. Always add Gozaimasu when talking to shop staff, taxi drivers, or waiters.
Onegai Shimasu (Please)
- Pronunciation: Oh-neh-guy She-mas
- Usage: Use this when asking for something. Example: "Coffee, Onegai shimasu."
4. Survival Shopping Phrases
Shopping in Japan is a sport. From high-end electronics in Akihabara to 100-yen shops, you will be buying things. Here is how to do it smoothly.
Kore wo Kudasai (I’ll take this one)
- Pronunciation: Ko-reh o Ku-da-sai
- How to use: If you cannot read the menu, just point to the plastic ramen display and say Kore wo kudasai. It works every time.
Ikura desu ka? (How much is it?)
- Pronunciation: Ee-ku-rah des-ka?
Kurejitto Kaado wa tsukaemasu ka? (Can I use a Credit Card?)
- Pronunciation: Ku-re-jit-to Car-do wa tsu-ka-eh-mas-ka?
- Reality Check: Japan is still a very cash-heavy society. Always ask this before you eat!
5. Navigation: Finding Your Way
Tokyo is a maze. You will get lost. It is part of the adventure.
... wa doko desu ka? (Where is ...?)
- Pronunciation: ... wa do-ko des-ka?
- Usage: Put the place you are looking for at the beginning.
- Example: Toire wa doko desu ka? (Where is the toilet?)
Useful Direction Words:
- Migi: Right
- Hidari: Left
- Massugu: Straight
6. The "Emergency" Button
Sometimes, you just don't understand. And that is okay.
Wakarimasen (I don't understand)
- Pronunciation: Wa-ka-ree-ma-sen
- Body Language: Shake your head slightly and wave your hand in front of your face (the Japanese sign for "No").
Eigo ga hanasemasu ka? (Do you speak English?)
- Pronunciation: Ey-go ga ha-na-seh-mas-ka?
- Teacher’s Tip: Ask this before you start speaking English to give them time to prepare.
7. Dining Etiquette (The "Secret" Phrases)
This is where you can impress the locals. Japanese people appreciate it when foreigners know the proper dining rituals.
Itadakimasu (I humbly receive)
- Pronunciation: Ee-ta-da-kee-mas
- When to use: Say this before you take your first bite. Put your hands together in prayer position.
Gochisousama Deshita (Thank you for the meal)
- Pronunciation: Go-chee-so-sama Desh-ta
- When to use: Say this after you finish eating or when you are paying the bill.
Oishii (Delicious)
- Pronunciation: Oh-ee-shee
- Usage: Take a bite. Smile. Look at your friend and say Oishii!
8. Convenience Store (Konbini) Culture
You will visit 7-Eleven, Lawson, or FamilyMart at least twice a day. The staff will ask you a few questions in quick Japanese. Here’s how to handle those interactions.
- "Fukuro wa irimasu ka?" (Do you need a bag?) -> Answer: Hai (Yes) or Iie (No).
- "Atatamemasu ka?" (Do you want it warmed up?) -> Answer: Hai, onegai shimasu (Yes, please).
Summary: The "Cheat Sheet" Checklist
Here is a quick recap. Screenshot this list and keep it on your phone.
- Excuse me: Sumimasen
- Thank you: Arigatou Gozaimasu
- Please: Onegai Shimasu
- Yes / No: Hai / Iie
- Where is the toilet?: Toire wa doko desu ka?
- How much?: Ikura desu ka?
- I don't understand: Wakarimasen
- Delicious: Oishii
- Bill/Check please: Okaikei onegai shimasu
Conclusion: It Is About Connection, Not Perfection
I want to leave you with one final piece of advice.
Do not be afraid of making mistakes.
I have seen tourists who hesitate to speak because they fear mispronouncing words. But here is the truth: A mispronounced Arigatou with a smile means much more than a silent nod.
Japanese people are very welcoming. When they see you trying to speak their language, they view it as a sign of respect. They see that you care enough to learn about their culture.
So, go ahead. Walk into that ramen shop. Say Sumimasen. Order the spicy noodles. And when you leave, shout Gochisousama!
You might get the accent wrong, but you will convey the right feeling. And that is what travel is all about.