Traveling to Kyoto? Knowing a few key Japanese phrases will transform your experience—locals appreciate the effort, and you’ll navigate temples, markets, and ryokans with ease. Here’s a curated list of practical expressions, complete with pronunciation guides and cultural tips!
Greetings & Basics
-
Hello / Good day
- Japanese: こんにちは
- Romanization: Kon’nichiwa
- Use: Greet anyone during daytime. Bow slightly for politeness.
-
Thank you
- Japanese: ありがとうございます
- Romanization: Arigatō gozaimasu
- Tip: Say this to servers, shop staff, or guides. Overuse is encouraged!
-
Excuse me / Sorry
- Japanese: すみません
- Romanization: Sumimasen
- Use: Get attention (e.g., ordering), apologize lightly, or squeeze through crowds.
-
Yes / No
- Japanese: はい / いいえ
- Romanization: Hai / Iie
- Note: Nodding is common for “yes.” Soften “no” with sumimasen.
Dining & Cafés
-
Please give me [item].
- Japanese: [Item] をお願いします
- Romanization: [Item] o onegaishimasu
- Example: “Matcha o onegaishimasu” = “Matcha, please.”
-
Is this vegetarian?
- Japanese: ベジタリアン向けですか？
- Romanization: Bejitarian muke desu ka?
- Tip: Kyoto has vegan temples cuisines—ask at shojin ryori restaurants.
-
The bill, please.
- Japanese: お会計をお願いします
- Romanization: O-kaikei o onegaishimasu
Shopping
-
How much is this?
- Japanese: これはいくらですか？
- Romanization: Kore wa ikura desu ka?
- Gesture: Point at the item while asking.
-
Can I try this on? (clothing)
- Japanese: 試着できますか？
- Romanization: Shichaku dekimasu ka?
-
Do you have [size/color]?
- Japanese: [サイズ/色] はありますか？
- Romanization: [Saizu/Iro] wa arimasu ka?
Directions & Transport
-
Where is [place]?
- Japanese: [Place] はどこですか？
- Romanization: [Place] wa doko desu ka?
- Example: “Kiyomizu-dera wa doko desu ka?” (Where is Kiyomizu Temple?)
-
Does this train go to [station]?
- Japanese: この電車は [Station] に行きますか？
- Romanization: Kono densha wa [Station] ni ikimasu ka?
-
I’m lost.
- Japanese: 道に迷いました
- Romanization: Michi ni mayoimashita
- Follow up with: “Chizu arimasu ka?” (Do you have a map?)
Temples & Etiquette
-
Am I allowed to take photos?
- Japanese: 写真を撮ってもいいですか？
- Romanization: Shashin o totte mo ii desu ka?
- Note: Some temples ban photography. Always ask!
-
Before entering temples/homes:
- Japanese: 失礼します (I will disturb you)
- Romanization: Shitsurei shimasu
- Use: Say this when removing shoes at entrances.
Emergencies
-
Help!
- Japanese: 助けて！
- Romanization: Tasukete!
-
Call an ambulance!
- Japanese: 救急車を呼んでください！
- Romanization: Kyūkyūsha o yonde kudasai!
-
Where is the hospital?
- Japanese: 病院はどこですか？
- Romanization: Byōin wa doko desu ka?
Bonus: Cultural Nuances
- Politeness: Add “desu” or “masu” to verb endings (e.g., “arigatō” → “arigatō gozaimasu”).
- Silence is golden: Speak softly in public transport or sacred spaces.
- Cash is king: Many small shops only accept cash. Ask:
- Japanese: クレジットカードは使えますか？
- Romanization: Kurejitto kādo wa tsukaemasu ka? (Can I use a credit card?)
Final Tip: Practice pronunciation using apps like Google Translate’s audio feature. Even imperfect attempts will earn smiles! ✨
Immerse yourself in Kyoto’s magic—these phrases are your key to deeper connections and unforgettable adventures. 頑張って (Ganbatte — “Do your best”)!