Many travellers worry about the language barrier in Japan, but with a little preparation, navigating the country can be surprisingly smooth. While English is not widely spoken, especially outside major tourist areas, Japan is incredibly accommodating to visitors. From bilingual signage to picture menus, you’ll find plenty of ways to communicate and enjoy your trip with ease.
English Signage & Tourist-Friendly Menus
Public Transport & Signage
Japan’s public transport system is one of the best in the world, and despite language concerns, it is very foreigner-friendly:
- Railway stations, airports, and major tourist attractions have English signage, making it easy to navigate.
- Train and subway announcements in cities like Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto are usually made in both Japanese and English.
- Ticket machines often have language options, including English, Chinese, and Korean.
If you’re travelling outside major cities, stations may not have as much English, but Google Maps and translation apps can help you find your way.
Restaurants & Ordering Food
Japanese food is a major highlight of any visit, and ordering a meal is easier than you might expect:
- Many restaurants, especially in tourist areas, have English menus or signs out front that say “English menu available.”
- Picture menus and plastic food replicas (shokuhin sampuru) outside restaurants make it easy to point and order.
- Conveyor belt sushi and ramen shops often have vending machines where you select your meal with pictures before handing the ticket to the staff.
Even if a restaurant doesn’t have an English menu, polite gestures, pointing at dishes, or using basic Japanese phrases will usually be enough.
Essential Japanese Phrases for Travellers
While many Japanese people understand some English, they may be shy about speaking it. A few simple phrases can go a long way in making interactions smoother and more enjoyable.
Basic Greetings & Politeness
- Hello – こんにちは (Konnichiwa)
- Good morning – おはようございます (Ohayō gozaimasu)
- Good evening – こんばんは (Konbanwa)
- Goodbye – さようなら (Sayōnara)
- Excuse me / Sorry – すみません (Sumimasen)
- Please – お願いします (Onegaishimasu)
- Thank you – ありがとう (Arigatō) / ありがとうございます (Arigatō gozaimasu)
- Yes – はい (Hai)
- No – いいえ (Iie)
Getting Around & Asking for Help
- Where is ___? – はどこですか？(* wa doko desu ka?*)
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- Example: “Where is the station?” → 駅はどこですか？(Eki wa doko desu ka?)
- I don’t understand – わかりません (Wakarimasen)
- Do you speak English? – 英語を話せますか？ (Eigo o hanasemasu ka?)
- Please write it down – 書いてください (Kaite kudasai)
- How much is this? – いくらですか？ (Ikura desu ka?)
- Can I pay by credit card? – クレジットカードは使えますか？ (Kurejitto kādo wa tsukaemasu ka?)
Ordering at a Restaurant
- I’d like this, please. – これをください (Kore o kudasai)
- Do you have an English menu? – 英語のメニューはありますか？ (Eigo no menyū wa arimasu ka?)
- No wasabi, please. – わさび抜きでお願いします (Wasabi nuki de onegaishimasu)
- I have a food allergy. – アレルギーがあります (Arerugī ga arimasu)
- Can I have the bill? – お会計お願いします (O-kaikei onegaishimasu)
Tips for Navigating Language Differences
- Use Translation Apps – Apps like Google Translate can help with signs, menus, and conversations. With Google Translate, you can download a language before you travel, handy for those who a conscious about data usage overseas.
- Carry a Phrasebook or Screenshot Phrases – Having key phrases written down can make communication easier.
- Pointing Works Wonders – Whether it’s a menu item, a map, or a train timetable, pointing is universally understood.
- Be Patient & Use Simple English – Speak slowly, use basic words, and avoid slang to improve understanding.
- Learn a Few Key Words – Even saying “thank you” in Japanese shows effort and appreciation, which is always welcomed.
While the language barrier in Japan may seem intimidating, English signage, helpful locals, and technology make travelling easier than expected. Most of the younger generation have learned some English in school and some enjoy practicing using their English skills, it’s not uncommon to strike up a conversation with the locals in Japan. So, even if you don’t speak Japanese, a friendly attitude, some key phrases, and a willingness to try will go a long way in ensuring a smooth and enjoyable trip!
