49 Essential Phrases to Navigate Japan Like a Local
If you’re visiting Japan in 2025 and worrying about the language barrier, this article will come in handy for your trip.
Picture this: You’ve just landed in Japan, a land of stunning temples, vibrant cityscapes, and mouthwatering cuisine. You’re ready to explore, but as you step out of the airport, reality hits—you don’t speak Japanese. The signs look like artwork, and the thought of ordering sushi or finding the right train feels overwhelming.
Now imagine a different scenario. You walk into a bustling ramen shop in Shinjuku, smile at the chef, and confidently say, “Tonkotsu ramen onegaishimasu.” (Tonkotsu ramen, please) The chef beams back, the locals around you nod in approval, and you feel like you’ve unlocked a secret door to the heart of Japan.
Speaking even a little Japanese can turn a good trip into a great one. Knowing some basic phrases will help you to immerse yourself in the culture and form friendships that make your journey unforgettable.
In this guide, we’ve handpicked 49 essential Japanese phrases tailored for tourists visiting Japan in 2025. Whether you’re navigating Tokyo’s subway, exploring Kyoto’s temples, or savoring Osaka’s street food, these phrases will help you travel with confidence and blend in like a local.
Ready to transform your trip? Let’s dive in!
To make things easier, we divided the phrases into different scenarios that you might encounter during your time in Japan:
Greetings and Basic Phrases
Dining Out: Ordering Food and Drinks
Navigating Transportation
Shopping and Bargaining
Emergencies and Medical Help
49 Basic Japanese Phrases at a Glance
Here’s a quick glimpse of the 49 phrases you’ll find below:
Konnichiwa (こんにちは) – Hello / Good afternoon
Ohayou gozaimasu (おはようございます) – Good morning
Konbanwa (こんばんは) – Good evening
Sayounara (さようなら) – Goodbye
Arigatou gozaimasu (ありがとうございます) – Thank you
Sumimasen (すみません) – Excuse me / I’m sorry
Hai (はい) – Yes
Iie (いいえ) – No
Sumimasen, mou ichido itte ii desu ka? (すみません、もう一度言っていいですか?) - Sorry, can you repeat that again?
Onamae wa nan desu ka? (お名前は何ですか?) – What’s your name?
Sumimasen, menu onegaishimasu (すみません、メニューおねがいします) – Sorry, may I have the menu, please?
Osusume ga arimasu ka/Osusume wo oshiete kuremasen ka? (おすすめがありますか?/ おすすめを教えてくれませんか) – What do you recommend?
Kore o kudasai (これをください) – I’d like this, please.
Omizu o kudasai/Omizu wo onegaishimasu (お水をください/お水をお願いします) – Can I have some water, please?
Biiru onegaishimasu (ビールお願いします) – Beer, please.
Sumimasen, okaikei onegaishimasu (すみません、お会計をお願いします) – Sorry, can I have the check, please.
Genkin nomi desu ka? / Kaado de ii desu ka? (現金のみですか?/カードでいいですか?) – Is it cash only? / Can I use a card?
Vegetarian ryouri arimasu ka? (ベジタリアンの料理はありますか?) – Do you have vegetarian dishes?
Okawari onegaishimasu (おかわりお願いします) – Another serving, please.
Oishikatta desu! (おいしかったです!) – It was delicious!
Kono densha wa Tokyo ni ikimasu ka? (この電車は東京に行きますか?) – Does this train go to Tokyo?
Tsugi no eki wa nan desu ka? (次の駅は何ですか?) – What’s the next station?
Ichiban chikai eki wa doko desu ka? (一番近い駅はどこですか?) – Where is the nearest station?
Ichiban chikai basutei wa doko desu ka? (一番近いバス停はどこですか?) – Where is the nearest bus stop?
Shuuden wa nannji desu ka(終電は何時ですか?)ー When’s the last train?
(Insert station) eki made no Kippu o kaitai desu ((Insert station)駅までの切符を買いたいです) – I want to buy a ticket to (insert station).
Shinkansen no kippu wa (insert destination) made ikura desu ka? (新幹線の切符は(destination) までいくらですか?) – How much is a Shinkansen ticket to <destination> ?
Takushii o yonde onegaishimasu (タクシーを呼んでお願いします) – Can you please call a taxi for me?
Sumimasen、(insert destination) made no michi wo oshiete kuremasen ka? (すみません,(destination)までの道を教えてくれませんか) – Excuse me, can you tell me the way to (destination)?
X wa doko desu ka? (X は どこですか? ) – Where is this place?
Kore wa ikura desu ka? (これはいくらですか?) – How much is this?
Shichaku dekimasu ka? (試着できますか?) – Can I try this on?
Kore wa <S/M/Lī> saizu ga arimasu ka? (これは<S/M/L>サイズがありますか?) – Do you have this in <small/medium/large> size?
Kurejitto de ii desu ka? (クレジットでいいですか??) – Can I use a credit card?
Reshiito o kudasai (レシートをください) – Can I have a receipt?
Kore, chotto takai desu ne (これ、ちょっと高いですね) – This is a bit expensive, isn’t it?
Menzei de kaemasu ka? (免税で買えますか?) – Can I buy this tax-free?
Hoka no iro wa arimasu ka? (他の色はありますか?) – Do you have this in other colors?
Ichiou henpin dekimasu ka? (一応返品できますか?) – Is this refundable just in case?
Tasukete! (助けて!) – Please help me!
Ichiban chikai kouban/keisatsusho wa doko desu ka? (一番近い交番/警察署はどこですか?) – Where is the nearest police station?
Ichiban chikai byouin/kurinikku wa doko desu ka? (一番近い病院/クリニックはどこですか?) – Where is the nearest hospital?
Atama ga itai desu (頭が痛いです) – I have a headache.
Onaka ga itai desu (お腹が痛いです) – I have a stomachache.
Netsu ga aru to omoimasu (熱があると思います) – I think I have a fever.
Ichiban chikai kusuriya/drugstore wa doko desu ka? (一番近い薬屋/ドラッグストアはどこですか?) – Where is the nearest pharmacy/drugstore?
Doko ni hinann sureba annzenn desu ka(どこに避難すれば安全ですか)ー Where should I evacuate?
Saifu o nakushimashita. Tasukete moraemasen ka? (財布をなくしました。助けてもらえませんか?) – I lost my wallet. Can you help me?
Kono hoken ga tsukaemasu ka(この保険が使えますか)ー Can I use this insurance?
10 Must-Know Japanese Greetings Phrases
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Maneki Neko - Photo by @afxlanca_sylvie
If there’s one thing we learned in Japan, it’s that greetings are everything. Even though most Japanese people tend to be more conservative and quiet, knowing a simple “hello” or “thank you” can make all the difference. People in Japan really appreciate it when you make an effort to use their language, even if it’s just a few words. It’s a great way to break the ice and show respect. Plus, it feels awesome when they smile back at you.
1) Konnichiwa (こんにちは) – Hello / Good afternoon
You can use this anytime during the day, and it works for almost any situation—greeting someone at a shop, checking into a hotel, or even saying hi to your Airbnb host.
2) Ohayou gozaimasu (おはようございます) – Good morning
If you’re heading out for breakfast or starting a morning tour, throw this one out there. It’s a little more polite than just “ohayou,” which is more casual.
3) Konbanwa (こんばんは) – Good evening
Perfect for evenings, like when you’re strolling through Kyoto at sunset or grabbing dinner at an izakaya.
4) Sayounara (さようなら) – Goodbye
Honestly, you won’t hear this one too often unless you’re saying goodbye for a long time. For casual goodbyes, you can just wave and say, “ja ne!”
5) Arigatou gozaimasu (ありがとうございます) – Thank you (formal)
You’ll use this a LOT. Thanking a server? Arigatou. Thanking someone who gives you directions? Arigatou. Even when you leave a shop, the staff will say it to you with a head nod, so you can say it right back.
6) Sumimasen (すみません) – Excuse me / I’m sorry
This one’s a lifesaver. You can use it to get someone’s attention (like asking for help) or apologize if you bump into someone on a crowded train. Super versatile.
7) Hai (はい) – Yes
Straightforward but handy. You’ll use it when confirming your order or agreeing with someone.
8) Iie (いいえ) – No
If you’re declining something, like when someone offers you something you don’t need, just smile and say this. Polite and simple. (One point to note is that in real life, it is not common for Japanese people to say “いいえ”. They would say either “いや” or “いえ”. When speaking casually, most of the people say “いや”. )
9) Sumimasen, mou ichido itte ii desu ka? (すみません、もう一度言っていいですか?) - Sorry, can you repeat that again?
Trust me, this one will come in handy when you’re lost or just totally confused by what someone said.
10) Onamae wa nan desu ka? (お名前は何ですか?) – What’s your name?
This is great if you’re meeting someone new for the first time, usually at a bar or a meetup. Be ready to introduce yourself, too. (If you like to introduce yourself, you can say “<Name> desu.” For example, if your name is Brian, you can say “Brian desu.”)
Dining Out: 10 Phrases to Order Food and Drinks in Japanese
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Uonami Fish Bar - Photo by @afxlanca_sylvie
One of our favorite things about Japan? The food. Whether it’s a hole-in-the-wall ramen shop or a high-end sushi bar, every meal will satisfy your belly. But let’s be real—ordering can be intimidating if you don’t know what to say. These phrases saved us from many awkward pointing sessions, and I promise they’ll make your dining experience smoother too.
1) Sumimasen, menu onegaishimasu (すみません、メニューおねがいします) – Sorry, may I have the menu, please?
Not all restaurants have English menus, so this is super helpful. If you’re lucky, they might hand you one with pictures (lifesaver).
2) Osusume ga arimasu ka/Osusume wo oshiete kuremasen ka? (おすすめがありますか/おすすめを教えてくれませんか) – What do you recommend?
This is a great way to discover local favorites! We used it at a sushi place in Osaka and ended up trying the most amazing fatty tuna we wouldn’t have picked ourselves.
3) Kore o kudasai (これをください) – I’d like this, please.
Just point to the menu (or the display outside) and say this. It works like magic when you’re unsure of the pronunciation of a dish. If you like to be more polite, you can also say “Kore onegaishimasu.” (これお願いします)
4) Omizu o kudasai/Omizu wo onegaishimasu (お水をください/お水をお願いします) – Can I have some water, please?
If you’ve ever done a Japanese lesson on Duolingo, this phrase will not be a stranger to you. Fun fact: In Japan, water is usually free at restaurants. Just ask.
5) Biiru onegaishimasu (ビールお願いします) – Beer, please.
Japanese beer is so tasty, especially after a long day of sightseeing. Use this phrase to grab an Asahi or Kirin. (If you like to order 2 beers instead, you can also say “Birru o futatsu onegaishimasu.”)
6) Sumimasen, okaikei onegaishimasu (すみません、お会計をお願いします) – Sorry, can I have the check, please.
Unlike in some countries, you won’t get the bill until you ask for it. This phrase will get the job done. (If you like to split the bill instead, you can also say “Betsu-Betsu de onegaishimasu.”)
7) Genkin nomi desu ka?/Kaado de ii desu ka? (現金のみですか?/ カードでいいですか?) – Is it cash only? / Can I use a card?
Japan is still a cash-heavy society, so it’s good to check before you whip out your credit card.
8) Vegetarian ryouri arimasu ka? (ベジタリアン料理ありますか?) – Do you have vegetarian dishes?
If you don’t eat meat or fish, this is a must-know. Some places might not have options, but it’s always worth asking.
9) Okawari onegaishimasu (おかわりお願いします) – Another serving, please.
Found something you love and like to have a second serving? Use this to get more, whether it’s rice, tea, or even a bowl of ramen.
Eg: Sumimasen, gohan no ōmori okawari onegaishimasu. (すみません、ご飯の大盛りおかわりお願いします)
For ramen, you can also say “kaedama onegaishimasu”. (替え玉お願いします)
(Do check if there are already paid kaedama options on the menu. It’d be embarrassing to request it when there’s already an option for it through ordering.)
10) Oishikatta desu! (おいしかったです!) – It was delicious!
The ultimate compliment. Say this when paying for your meal after eating, and you’ll see the staff light up with pride.
10 Essential Japanese Phrases for Navigating Transportation
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Hijiribashi Bridge - Photo by @afxlanca_sylvie
Japan’s transportation system is one of the best in the world, but it can also be overwhelming—especially with all the kanji signs. These phrases saved us when we were figuring out the trains, buses, and taxis. Trust me, with a little preparation, navigating transportation around Japan will become easy for you in no time.
1) Kono densha wa Tokyo ni ikimasu ka? (この電車は東京に行きますか?) – Does this train go to Tokyo?
Trains in Japan can be confusing, especially with local, rapid, and express lines. This question helps ensure you’re on the right train before you board—because hopping on the wrong one can take you miles out of your way! (Also, note that most train displays already have English text. Fare costs the same no matter how long you take to get to the next station, so just get back on the next train.)
2) Tsugi no eki wa nan desu ka? (次の駅は何ですか?) – What’s the next station?
If you’re unsure when to get off, this phrase is a lifesaver. We used it when we couldn’t read the station signs, and locals were more than happy to help.
3) Ichiban chikai eki wa doko desu ka? (一番近い駅はどこですか?) – Where is the nearest station?
Japan is packed with train stations, but finding the nearest one isn’t always obvious. This phrase works wonders, especially in more remote neighborhoods. (Google Maps also works fine for most situations.)
The bigger problem usually happens when you are changing stations. For example, if you are in Shinjuku station and need to change to Oedo line from the JR line, you can use the phrase “すいません、大江戸線はどこですか?” (Sumimasen, may I know where is the Oedo line?)
4) Ichiban chikai basutei wa doko desu ka? (一番近いバス停はどこですか?) – Where is the nearest bus stop?
If you’re exploring rural areas or towns without train lines, buses are your best bet. Use this phrase to avoid getting lost in the middle of nowhere.
5) Shuuden wa nannji desu ka(終電は何時ですか?)ー When’s the last train?
Super handy when you’re out partying and lost track of the time. Avoid taking taxis if possible as they are really expensive in Japan!
6) (Insert station) eki made no Kippu o kaitai desu ((Insert station)駅までの切符を買いたいです) – I want to buy a ticket to (insert station).
Most ticket machines have English options, but asking a station staff member for help using this phrase is always a good backup.
7) Shinkansen no kippu wa made ikura desu ka? (新幹線の切符は(destination) までいくらですか?) – How much is a Shinkansen ticket to <destination>?
The Shinkansen (bullet train) is a must-try experience if you are travelling to Japan for the first time. Knowing how to ask about ticket prices will come in handy when you are at the train station.
(Do note that it has to be bought at stations where the Shinkansen stops. For Tokyo, it'd be in Tokyo, Shinjuku & Shinagawa.)
8) Takushii o yonde onegaishimasu (タクシーを呼んでお願いします) – Can you please call a taxi for me?
Taxis can be expensive but are a lifesaver when public transport isn’t an option. Use this if you need a staff from Hotels or restaurants to call one for you.
9) Sumimasen, (destination) made no michi wo oshiete kuremasen ka??(すみません、(destination)までの道を教えてくれませんか。)- Excuse me, can you tell me the way to (destination)?
If you’re hopelessly lost (been there), don’t panic. People in Japan are incredibly helpful, and this phrase makes it easier to ask for assistance.
10) X wa doko desu ka? (X は どこですか? ) – Where is this place?
Perfect if you need directions. Usually, we recommend using Google Maps as you will be able to get to most places on your own, but if you are still lost, many locals will even take out their phones to help you find your way.
9 Japanese Phrases to Use while Shopping and Bargaining
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Shopping in Japan is an experience in itself—whether you’re exploring high-end department stores or quirky local markets. But figuring out sizes, prices, or tax refunds can feel tricky. These phrases will help to make your shopping sprees way smoother and possibly score a discount or two.
1) Kore wa ikura desu ka? (これはいくらですか?) – How much is this?
You’ll use this everywhere, from convenience stores to boutique shops. Just point at the item and ask.
2) Shichaku dekimasu ka? (試着できますか?) – Can I try this on?
If you’re shopping for clothes, this will be handy. Most stores will let you use fitting rooms, but remember to take off your shoes first.
3) Kore wa <S/M/L> saizu ga arimasu ka? (これは<S/M/L>サイズがありますか?) – Do you have this in <small/medium/large> size?
Japanese sizing can be smaller than what you’re used to. Just be sure to ask the shop staff if they have your size.
4) Kurejitto de ii desu ka? (クレジットでいいですか) – Can I use a credit card?
Many shops still prefer cash, but some accept cards. It’s always good to ask first, especially in more traditional shops in rural areas.
5) Reshiito o kudasai (レシートをください) – Can I have a receipt?
If you’re planning to claim tax refunds, you’ll need receipts for your purchases. (If you do not want a receipt, you can also say “Reshitto daijobu desu.”) (レシート大丈夫です)
6) Kore, chotto takai desu ne (これ、ちょっと高いですね) – This is a bit expensive, isn’t it?
A lighthearted way to express that something is pricey. Sometimes, it even gets you a little discount. (Be prepared to speak fluently!)
7) Menzei de kaemasu ka? (免税で買えますか?) – Can I buy this tax-free?
Many stores like Sugi Drugstore offer tax-free shopping for tourists if you spend above a certain amount like above 5,000 yen. Just show your passport at checkout.
(There are also 免税 counters to collect the refunds, just bring the receipt and passport with you.)
8) Hoka no iro wa arimasu ka? (他の色はありますか?) – Do you have this in other colors?
If you love something but want a different color, this phrase is a lifesaver.
9) Ichiou, henpin dekimasu ka? (一応、返品できますか?) – Is this refundable just in case?
Returns aren’t as common in Japan, but it’s good to know the policy before you buy, especially for electronics or expensive items.
10 Crucial Japanese Phrases for Emergencies and Medical Help
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Photo by FreePik
Hopefully, you’ll never need these phrases, but it’s better to be prepared. Whether you lose your wallet, feel unwell, or need to find a police station, knowing how to ask for help can save you a lot of stress when you’re travelling.
1) Tasukete! (助けて!) – Please help me!
Use this in any urgent situation, like if you see someone drowning or on the verge of bleeding out. You can call 119 for the ambulance in Japan or ask someone to do it.
(Hyakujuukyuuban/Kyuukyuusha wo yonde kudasai! Hito ga taoreta! 119番/救急車を呼んでください!人が倒れた) (Call 119/an ambulance! Someone has collapsed!)
2) Ichiban chikai kouban/keisatsusho wa doko desu ka? (1番近い交番/警察署はどこですか?) – Where is the nearest police station?
If you’ve lost something or need assistance, police stations (kouban) in Japan are super helpful and approachable. For more serious matters such as crimes, head to the larger 警察署。
3) Ichiban chikai byouin/kurinikku wa doko desu ka? (一番近い病院/クリニックはどこですか?) – Where is the nearest hospital/clinic?
In case of an emergency, this phrase will get you directions to the closest hospital or clinic. Do note that clinics in Japan are mostly specialised towards a certain ailment, and may not be open on the day. Eg: 咽喉科(Inkouka) for throat ailments, 耳鼻科 (Jibika) for nose and ear ailments, and so on.
咽喉(Throat)
耳(Ear)
鼻(Nose)
内科(Family doctor)
皮膚(Skin)
アレルギー (Allergy)
Note: Some of the more complicated Kanji may even be written in Kana. Eg: 皮膚科 > 皮フ科
処方箋 > 処方せん
4) Atama ga itai desu (頭が痛いです) – I have a headache.
Perfect for explaining how you feel to a pharmacist or doctor after having too much Asahi from the previous night.
5) Onaka ga itai desu (お腹が痛いです) – I have a stomachache.
Useful if you’ve had one too many street food snacks and your stomach isn’t happy.
6) Netsu ga aru to omoimasu (熱があると思います) – I think I have a fever.
If you’re feeling under the weather, this helps communicate your symptoms to a doctor or pharmacist.
7) Ichiban chikai kusuriya/drugstore wa doko desu ka? (一番近い薬屋/ドラッグストアはどこですか?) – Where is the nearest pharmacy/drugstore?
Japan has very strict medication laws, and 薬局 are exclusively for prescriptions. (you must be given a slip from a clinic doctor to buy the medication.) OTC drugs can be bought from drugstores.
8) Doko ni hinann sureba annzenn desu ka(どこに避難すれば安全ですか)ー Where should I evacuate?
Despite how beautiful Japan is, the country is still located within the Ring of Fire, with lots of seismic activity, which means there is a real threat of earthquakes happening. Use this phrase when you want to evacuate to the nearest emergency shelter.
9) Saifu o nakushimashita. Tasukete moraemasen ka? (財布をなくしました。助けてもらえませんか?) – I lost my wallet. Can you help me?
Losing something important can be scary, but people in Japan are often kind and willing to help you search or direct you to the police.
10) Kono hoken ga tsukaemasu ka(この保険が使えますか)ー Can I use this insurance?
If you have travel insurance, let the staff know. It makes the process easier if you need medical care. (If you want to say you have travel insurance, you can also say “Ryokou hoken ga arimasu (旅行保険があります).”)
Practice Makes Perfect
Before you set off on your adventure to Japan, a little preparation can go a long way in helping you feel confident and ready to interact with locals.
Here are some practical tips to get you started:
Use language apps: Apps like Sakuraspeak or Duolingo are great for practicing these phrases before your trip. They provide conversational scenarios, so you can get a feel for how to use these phrases naturally.
Shadowing technique: Try repeating the phrases after listening to native speakers. This helps you mimic their intonation and rhythm. (Here’s one video on ordering coffee.)
Daily practice: Spend just 10 minutes a day practicing these phrases aloud. By the time you land in Japan, they’ll feel like second nature.
Practice a few phrases at a time: It is incredibly difficult to memorise 50 phrases simultaneously. Rather, it would be more manageable to focus on a few phrases per week, before adding a few more to your plate when you’ve got them somewhat memorised. Spaced repetition is the key to committing the phrases to memory.
Cultural Dos and Don’ts
Japan’s culture is rooted in respect and politeness, and understanding some cultural nuances will make your interactions even smoother:
Bowing: A slight bow when saying “Arigatou gozaimasu” (Thank you) or greeting someone shows respect and is appreciated.
Use two hands: When handing over money or receiving something like a receipt, use both hands as a sign of politeness.Pro tip: It is more polite if the object handed over is facing upright towards them.
Be mindful of noise: Speaking loudly or talking on your phone in public places, especially on trains, is considered impolite.
Don’t tip: Tipping isn’t customary in Japan. A heartfelt “Oishikatta desu!” (It’s delicious!) is the best compliment you can give.
Don’t litter after eating: One of the biggest complaints tourists visiting Japan have is that it’s so difficult to find a trash bin. It might be tempting to litter and toss your trash after eating, but please hold it with you until you find a trash bin.
Leverage Technology
Google Translate: It’s not perfect, but it can help when you’re stuck. Download the offline Japanese language pack to use it without Wi-Fi.
Google Maps: A lifesaver for navigating transportation, finding bus stops, or locating restaurants.
Conclusion: Do You Need to Speak Japanese to Travel Around Japan?
Absolutely not. You can travel to Japan without knowing a single word of Japanese and still have an incredible experience. Many tourists visit without speaking any Japanese and come back raving about how much they loved the country.
Japan is known to be tourist-friendly, and while English fluency isn’t widespread, most Japanese people know at least some basic English.
From helpful train station staff to store clerks, you’ll often find people who can understand basic English words or phrases. And even when language isn’t enough, gestures, smiles, and Google Translate can get you far.
Why Learn Any Japanese if You Don’t Have To?
Here’s the thing: speaking even a little Japanese can take your trip to the next level. Japanese people are incredibly kind and welcoming; they genuinely appreciate it when visitors make an effort to use their language.
There are countless times when a simple “Arigatou gozaimasu” (Thank you) or “Sumimasen” (Excuse me) turned into smiles, nods, and even a warm conversation with a friendly local. Learning just a few phrases will not only make your interactions smoother but also help you connect with locals on a deeper level.
Japan is a country where politeness and effort go a long way, and a few well-placed Japanese words can turn a good trip into an extraordinary one. Plus, it’s fun to surprise a shopkeeper or chef with a cheerful “Oishii desu!” (It’s delicious!) after a meal—they’ll often respond with delighted encouragement.
So, while you don’t need to learn Japanese to enjoy Japan, we think it’s absolutely worth it. You’ll make your trip even more memorable and create small moments of connection that you’ll treasure long after you’ve returned home.
We hope you’ve found this guide helpful! Whether you use just one or all 50 of these phrases, we’re sure they’ll enhance your journey in Japan. Arigatou gozaimasu! Safe travels, and enjoy every moment of your adventure in the land of the rising sun.
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