15 Common Japanese Words and Phrases

Dec 06, 2024

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15 Common Japanese Words and Phrases

Planning on doing one of our pack-free guided walks in Japan? If so you might want to learn some basic Japanese words and phrases that you could use on a daily basis.

Walking holidays Japan, Book online with Life's An Adventure

But don’t worry, we won’t expect you to know Japanese off by heart! Our local guides are fluent in the language and will do most of the talking, ensuring that you can fully enjoy the experience without the language barrier. They’ll share fascinating stories, insights into local traditions, and provide all the information you need about the places you’ll visit. You’ll have the chance to ask questions, learn about Japan’s rich history and culture, and dive deeper into the beautiful landscapes of Mt Fuji, all while feeling completely at ease. So, sit back, relax, and let our expert guides handle the details, while you focus on soaking in the beauty of your surroundings!

Three people stand cheerfully in front of a waterfall, bundled up in winter clothing and posing with peace signs. A wooden sign with Japanese characters marks the spot, popular for Walking Tours Japan. The serene, wooded area creates a picturesque backdrop.

Here are 15 common Japanese words and phrases:

1. Hello – Konnichiwa (Pronunciation: kohn-nee-chee-wah)

*People in Japan greet one another with a bow. A bow can range from a modest nod of the head to a deep waist bend. A deeper, longer bow shows respect, while a short nod of the head is casual and informal.

Geisha experienceon the Kumano Kodo

2. Thank you – Arigatou Gozaimasu (Pronunciation: ah-ree-gah-toh goh-zah-ee-mahs)

3. Please – kudasai (Pronunciation: koo-dah-sigh)

4. Excuse me/ I’m sorry – Sumimasen (Pronunciation: soo-mee-mah-sen)

Performers in traditional Japanese attire, holding red and white umbrellas and fans, dance on stage. The central figure, reminiscent of scenes from walking tours through Kyoto, wears a silver kimono with red accents. The dimly lit background highlights a musical instrument.

5. Yes – Hai (Pronunciation: hi)

6. No – Īe (Pronunciation: ee-eh)

7. Nice to meet you – Hajimemashite (Pronunciation: hah-jee-meh-mah-shee-teh)

Walking Tours, Japanese shrine gate, known as a torii, at Fushimi Inari Taisha.

8. Goodbye – Sayōnara (Pronunciation: sah-yoh-nah-rah)

9. Delicious – Oishii (Pronunciation: oh-ee-shee)

A lush green forest surrounds a serene waterfall flowing into a clear blue pool. Nearby, a bronze statue of two people in traditional attire is seated on a stone bench, adding a cultural touch to the natural scenery—perfect for guided walking tours reminiscent of tranquil spots in Japan.

10. Wine – Wain (Pronunciation: wah-een)

11. Beer – Bīru (Pronunciation: bee-roo)

An older woman and a younger person smile while preparing noodles together in a cozy kitchen, reminiscent of culinary moments shared on Japan Walking Holidays. The woman deftly cuts the noodles as the younger person observes and assists, both clad in casual clothing and aprons.

12. Japanese sake – Nihonshu (Pronunciation: nee-hohn-shoo)

13. Water please – O-mizu o onegai shimasu (Pronunciation: oh-mee-zoo oh oh-neh-guy shee-mahs)

14. How much is this? – Ikura desu ka? (Pronunciation: ee-koo-rah deh-soo kah?)

A person dressed as a geisha with traditional makeup and floral-adorned hairstyle graces the scene, wearing a purple kimono. They stand outdoors, part of a Japan Walking Tour, with a blurred wooden structure hazily silhouetting the background.

And this last one we reckon you’ll be saying all every day on your pack-free guided walk…

15. I love Japan! – Nihon daisuki! (Pronunciation: nee-hohn dahy-soo-kee)

A traditional Japanese pagoda stands amidst cherry blossoms, with Mount Fuji in the background under a colorful sunset sky, offering a perfect scene for Japan Walking Tours.

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