Language/Japanese/Vocabulary/Basic-Travel-and-Tourism-Vocabulary
◀️ Conditional and Hypothetical Sentences — Previous Lesson | Next Lesson — Famous Tourist Attractions and Landmarks ▶️ |
In this lesson, we will focus on learning how to talk about and plan a trip to Japan, as well as using the basic travel and tourism vocabulary. As a complete beginner, it is important to have a solid foundation in the language before embarking on a journey to a foreign country. By familiarizing yourself with the essential vocabulary and phrases related to travel and tourism, you will be better equipped to navigate through Japan and make the most of your experience. Whether you are visiting for leisure or business, this lesson will provide you with the necessary tools to communicate effectively during your trip. So let's dive in and explore the exciting world of travel and tourism in Japan!
Essential Travel Phrases[edit | edit source]
Before we begin learning the specific vocabulary related to travel and tourism, let's start with some essential travel phrases that will come in handy during your trip. These phrases will help you navigate various situations such as asking for directions, ordering food, and interacting with locals. Practice these phrases and try to incorporate them into your daily conversations.
Greetings and Basic Phrases[edit | edit source]
Here are some common greetings and basic phrases that you can use when interacting with locals in Japan:
- こんにちは (Konnichiwa) - Hello
- おはようございます (Ohayou gozaimasu) - Good morning
- こんばんは (Konbanwa) - Good evening
- ありがとうございます (Arigatou gozaimasu) - Thank you
- すみません (Sumimasen) - Excuse me/I'm sorry
- はい (Hai) - Yes
- いいえ (Iie) - No
- お願いします (Onegaishimasu) - Please
- 大丈夫ですか (Daijoubu desu ka) - Are you okay?
- わかりません (Wakarimasen) - I don't understand
Directions and Transportation[edit | edit source]
When navigating through Japan, it is important to know how to ask for directions and use public transportation. Here are some phrases that will help you get around:
- どこですか? (Doko desu ka?) - Where is...?
- 駅はどこですか? (Eki wa doko desu ka?) - Where is the train station?
- この電車はどこ行きですか? (Kono densha wa doko iki desu ka?) - Where does this train go?
- いくらですか? (Ikura desu ka?) - How much does it cost?
- どのくらいかかりますか? (Dono kurai kakarimasu ka?) - How long does it take?
- チケットをください (Chiketto o kudasai) - Please give me a ticket
- すみません、英語が話せません (Sumimasen, eigo ga hanasemasen) - Excuse me, I don't speak English
- 右 (Migi) - Right
- 左 (Hidari) - Left
- 前 (Mae) - Forward
- 後ろ (Ushiro) - Backward
- 階段 (Kaidan) - Stairs
- エスカレーター (Esukaretaa) - Escalator
Ordering Food[edit | edit source]
Japan is known for its delicious cuisine, and trying local dishes is an essential part of the travel experience. Here are some phrases you can use when ordering food at a restaurant:
- メニューをください (Menyuu o kudasai) - Please give me the menu
- 注文をお願いします (Chuumon o onegaishimasu) - I would like to place an order
- お水をください (O-mizu o kudasai) - Please give me water
- おいしいですか? (Oishii desu ka?) - Is it delicious?
- 辛いですか? (Karai desu ka?) - Is it spicy?
- お会計をお願いします (O-kaikei o onegaishimasu) - Can I have the bill, please?
- デザートはありますか? (Dezaato wa arimasu ka?) - Do you have any desserts?
Accommodation[edit | edit source]
When staying in Japan, whether it's a hotel or a traditional inn called a "ryokan," here are some phrases that will be useful when communicating with the staff:
- チェックインは何時ですか? (Chekku-in wa nanji desu ka?) - What time is check-in?
- チェックアウトは何時ですか? (Chekkuauto wa nanji desu ka?) - What time is check-out?
- 部屋を予約したいです (Heya o yoyaku shitai desu) - I would like to make a room reservation
- 部屋が臭いです (Heya ga kusai desu) - The room smells bad
- エアコンが壊れています (Eakon ga kowareteimasu) - The air conditioning is broken
- トイレが詰まっています (Toire ga tsumatteimasu) - The toilet is clogged
Basic Travel and Tourism Vocabulary[edit | edit source]
Now that we have covered some essential travel phrases, let's move on to learning the basic travel and tourism vocabulary. This vocabulary will help you communicate effectively when planning your trip, booking accommodations, visiting tourist attractions, and interacting with locals. Familiarize yourself with these words and phrases to enhance your travel experience in Japan.
Transportation[edit | edit source]
When traveling in Japan, it is important to know the different modes of transportation available. Here are some words and phrases related to transportation:
Japanese | Pronunciation | English |
---|---|---|
飛行機 | Hikouki | Airplane |
新幹線 | Shinkansen | Bullet train |
電車 | Densha | Train |
バス | Basu | Bus |
タクシー | Takushi | Taxi |
地下鉄 | Chikatetsu | Subway |
Accommodation[edit | edit source]
When planning a trip, finding suitable accommodation is essential. Here are some words and phrases related to accommodation:
Japanese | Pronunciation | English |
---|---|---|
ホテル | Hoteru | Hotel |
旅館 | Ryokan | Traditional inn |
レンタルアパート | Rentaru apaato | Rental apartment |
予約 | Yoyaku | Reservation |
チェックイン | Chekkuin | Check-in |
チェックアウト | Chekkauto | Check-out |
Tourist Attractions[edit | edit source]
Japan is known for its rich cultural heritage and stunning natural landscapes. Here are some words and phrases related to tourist attractions:
Japanese | Pronunciation | English |
---|---|---|
寺院 | Jiin | Temple |
神社 | Jinja | Shrine |
城 | Shiro | Castle |
展望台 | Tenboudai | Observation deck |
公園 | Koen | Park |
美術館 | Bijutsukan | Art museum |
Food and Dining[edit | edit source]
Japanese cuisine is renowned worldwide for its variety and flavors. Here are some words and phrases related to food and dining:
Japanese | Pronunciation | English |
---|---|---|
寿司 | Sushi | Sushi |
ラーメン | Raamen | Ramen |
お好み焼き | Okonomiyaki | Okonomiyaki (savory pancake) |
てんぷら | Tenpura | Tempura |
おでん | Oden | Oden (hotpot) |
甘味処 | Kanmidokoro | Dessert shop |
Shopping[edit | edit source]
Shopping is a popular activity for tourists visiting Japan. Here are some words and phrases related to shopping:
Japanese | Pronunciation | English |
---|---|---|
デパート | Depaato | Department store |
スーパーマーケット | Suupaamaaketto | Supermarket |
マーケット | Maaketto | Market |
ギフトショップ | Gifuto shoppu | Gift shop |
記念品 | Kinenhin | Souvenir |
値段 | Nedan | Price |
Cultural Insights[edit | edit source]
Japan has a unique and rich culture that is deeply rooted in its history and traditions. Here are some cultural insights that will provide you with a deeper understanding and appreciation of Japan's travel and tourism scene.
- Regional Variations: Japan consists of 47 prefectures, each with its own distinct culture and attractions. From the bustling streets of Tokyo to the serene temples of Kyoto, every region offers a unique travel experience. It is worth exploring different parts of Japan to fully immerse yourself in the country's diverse culture and natural beauty.
- Ryokan Experience: Staying at a traditional Japanese inn, called a "ryokan," is a must-do experience for travelers. Ryokans offer a glimpse into traditional Japanese lifestyle and hospitality. Guests can enjoy sleeping on futon beds, bathing in communal hot springs, and savoring exquisite kaiseki meals. This unique accommodation option allows visitors to fully immerse themselves in Japanese culture.
- Onsen Culture: Japan is known for its hot springs, or "onsen," which are natural geothermal baths. Onsens are not only a place to relax and rejuvenate but also an important part of Japanese culture. It is customary to follow certain etiquette when visiting an onsen, such as bathing fully naked and not bringing towels into the bath. Embracing this cultural practice will enhance your travel experience in Japan.
- Seasonal Festivals: Japan is home to numerous festivals throughout the year, known as "matsuri." These festivals celebrate various aspects of Japanese culture, including traditional music, dance, and food. From the iconic cherry blossom festivals in spring to the lively fireworks festivals in summer, experiencing a matsuri is a great way to immerse yourself in local traditions and customs.
- Omotenashi: Omotenashi is a Japanese concept of hospitality and customer service. It emphasizes the importance of anticipating and fulfilling the needs of guests. Japanese people take pride in providing exceptional service to visitors, whether it's in hotels, restaurants, or tourist attractions. Experiencing omotenashi firsthand will leave a lasting impression and make your trip to Japan even more memorable.
Practice Exercises[edit | edit source]
Now that you have learned the basic travel and tourism vocabulary, let's practice using them in context. Complete the following exercises to reinforce your understanding and application of the newly acquired vocabulary.
Exercise 1: Fill in the Blanks
Fill in the blanks with the appropriate travel and tourism vocabulary:
1. Could you please give me the __________? I would like to make a reservation. (ホテル) 2. Excuse me, where is the nearest __________ station? (地下鉄) 3. How much does this __________ cost? (チケット) 4. The __________ is broken in my room. Can you please fix it? (エアコン) 5. I would like to visit a traditional __________. (寺院)
Exercise 2: Role Play
Imagine you are a tourist in Japan and you need to ask for directions. Role play the following conversation with a partner:
Tourist: すみません、新幹線の駅はどこですか? (Sumimasen, shinkansen no eki wa doko desu ka?) Local: 新幹線の駅はあの方向です。まっすぐ行ってください。(Shinkansen no eki wa ano houkou desu. Massugu itte kudasai.) Tourist: ありがとうございます!(Arigatou gozaimasu!)
Exercise 3: Cultural Discussion
Discuss the following questions with a partner:
1. Have you ever stayed at a traditional Japanese inn (ryokan)? If so, what was your experience like? 2. Are there any famous tourist attractions in your country that you would recommend to visitors? Why? 3. What is one thing you would like to try or experience when traveling to Japan?
Conclusion[edit | edit source]
Congratulations! You have completed the lesson on basic travel and tourism vocabulary in Japanese. By mastering this vocabulary, you will be able to confidently plan your trip, navigate through Japan, and interact with locals. Don't forget to practice using these words and phrases in real-life situations to further enhance your language skills. In the next lesson, we will explore famous tourist attractions and landmarks in Japan. Stay tuned for more exciting adventures in the world of Japanese travel and tourism!
Videos[edit | edit source]
Japanese phrases you need for travelling Japan // Basic - YouTube[edit | edit source]
100 Basic Japanese Words You Must Know - YouTube[edit | edit source]
Sources[edit | edit source]
- 255 Useful Japanese Travel Words and Phrases (With Kanji ...
- 20 Essential Japanese Phrases for Travelers to Japan
- Japanese for Travelers: 73 Essential Phrases for Your Japanese ...
- Japanese Travel Words and Vocabulary
Other Lessons[edit | edit source]
- City
- Days of the Week
- House
- Japanese Hospitality and Service Culture
- Love
- Constellations
- Count to 10
- Education
- 四季 (The four seasons)
- Longest word
◀️ Conditional and Hypothetical Sentences — Previous Lesson | Next Lesson — Famous Tourist Attractions and Landmarks ▶️ |