When embarking on travel adventures, it’s helpful to have a basic vocabulary in the local language. In this blog post, we will explore common words and phrases in Japanese that will aid you in discussing travel-related topics. So, let’s get started on our journey through Japanese travel vocabulary!
- Transportation:
- Ryokō (旅行) – Travel
- Kōtsū (交通) – Transportation
- Kūkō (空港) – Airport
- Eki (駅) – Train station
- Basutei (バス停) – Bus stop
- Kōsoku basu (高速バス) – Express bus
- Chikatetsu (地下鉄) – Subway
- Kōtsūki (交通機) – Means of transportation
- Noriba (乗り場) – Terminal or platform
- Accommodation:
- Ryokan (旅館) – Traditional Japanese inn
- Hoteru (ホテル) – Hotel
- Minshuku (民宿) – Guesthouse
- Kyaku (客) – Guest
- Heya (部屋) – Room
- Fukusha (復舎) – Hostel
- Yadoya (宿屋) – Inn
- Resutoran (レストラン) – Restaurant
- Kōnā (コーナー) – Corner (used to describe a specific area in a hotel or airport)
- Directions:
- Michi (道) – Road
- Migi (右) – Right
- Hidari (左) – Left
- Mae (前) – Front
- Ushiro (後ろ) – Behind
- Mokuteki no basho (目的の場所) – Destination
- Doa (ドア) – Door
- Tsukue (机) – Desk
- Chizu (地図) – Map
- Sightseeing:
- Kankō (観光) – Sightseeing
- Kōen (公園) – Park
- Shōmei (象鳴) – Monument or landmark
- Bunka (文化) – Culture
- Koenchō (公園長) – Park ranger
- Kokuritsu kōen (国立公園) – National park
- Bijutsukan (美術館) – Art museum
- Hakubutsukan (博物館) – Museum
- Food and Beverages:
- Tabemono (食べ物) – Food
- Ocha (お茶) – Tea
- Mizu (水) – Water
- Resutoran (レストラン) – Restaurant
- Menyū (メニュー) – Menu
- Osusume (おすすめ) – Recommendation
- Taberu (食べる) – To eat
- Nomu (飲む) – To drink
- Kōhī (コーヒー) – Coffee
- Gohan (ご飯) – Rice or meal
- Shopping:
- Kaimono (買い物) – Shopping
- Depāto (デパート) – Department store
- Misete (見せて) – Show me
- Kakaku (価格) – Price
- O-kaeshi (お返し) – Change (money)
- Kōkaisho (公開書) – Receipt
- Genkin (現金) – Cash
- Kurejitto kādo (クレジットカード) – Credit card
- Bōeki (貿易) – Trade
- Shōten (商店) – Shop or store
Conclusion: Armed with this travel vocabulary, you’ll be better equipped to navigate your adventures in Japan and engage with locals. From transportation and accommodation to directions, sightseeing, food, and shopping, these common words and phrases will help you communicate your needs and make the most of your travel experience in Japan. So, pack your bags, embrace the culture, and embark on an unforgettable journey through the beautiful language and country of Japan!