You only need these five
You don’t need to speak Japanese to travel in Japan.
If you remember just these five phrases, you’ll be able to handle most daily situations with ease.
Perfect pronunciation is not important.
Trying — even a little — is what people appreciate most.
The 5 Essential Japanese Phrases
-
こんにちは
Konnichiwa
Hello -
おはよう（ございます）
Ohayou (gozaimasu)
Good morning
(“Gozaimasu” makes it more polite) -
ありがとう（ございます）
Arigatou (gozaimasu)
Thank you
(Polite and very commonly used) -
すみません
Sumimasen
Excuse me / Sorry -
これください
Kore kudasai
This one, please
Final Thought
With these five phrases, you can greet people, say thank you, apologize politely, and order what you want.
That’s more than enough for a comfortable and enjoyable trip in Japan.
A smile and these words will take you far.
Enjoy Japan.
