Contents
1. Introduction: Useful Phrases for Foreigners in Asakusa
Asakusa is one of Tokyo’s most iconic neighborhoods, known for its vibrant street life, historic landmarks, and traditional atmosphere. It’s a popular destination for tourists from all around the world. While many places in Asakusa cater to foreign visitors, it can still be challenging to navigate the language barrier, especially for those who don’t speak Japanese. To make your visit more enjoyable and stress-free, having a set of useful phrases ready can be incredibly helpful. This section will guide you through some essential phrases that can help you in various situations when exploring Asakusa.
When you’re in Asakusa, you’ll find that many signs are bilingual, and some people, particularly in the tourist-heavy areas, can speak a bit of English. However, it’s always a great idea to learn a few key Japanese phrases. Not only will it help you get around more easily, but it will also make your experience more immersive and respectful towards the local culture.
In general, Japanese people appreciate any effort to speak their language, even if it’s just a few words. By using simple Japanese phrases, you’ll show that you’re making an effort, which is often met with a positive and friendly response. Here are some useful phrases that will come in handy during your time in Asakusa.
First, when you’re greeting someone or entering a store, a polite “Konnichiwa” (こんにちは), meaning “Good afternoon,” or “Hello,” is a great place to start. It’s always important to show respect with your greeting, and this will set the tone for a positive interaction. If you’re entering a shop, you can add “Sumimasen” (すみません), meaning “Excuse me” or “Sorry,” to politely get the attention of staff.
If you’re having trouble finding your way around, “Doko desu ka?” (どこですか?) meaning “Where is it?” is a simple yet effective phrase for asking directions. It’s best to ask at tourist-friendly places, like near the famous Senso-ji Temple, as people are likely to know English to some extent. However, if you’re unsure, don’t hesitate to point to a map or a specific location to make your question clearer.
Shopping in Asakusa, especially around Nakamise Street, can be an exciting experience. If you want to ask about prices, you can use “Ikura desu ka?” (いくらですか?), which means “How much is this?” This phrase will help you when you’re trying to buy traditional souvenirs like Japanese fans, yukata (summer kimono), or sweets. In case you need to pay, you can simply say “Arigatou gozaimasu” (ありがとうございます), which means “Thank you very much.”
If you find yourself in a restaurant or food stall, asking for the menu is simple with the phrase “Menu wa arimasu ka?” (メニューはありますか?) meaning “Do you have a menu?” If you’re unsure about what to order, you can ask for recommendations by saying “O-susume wa nan desu ka?” (おすすめは何ですか?), which means “What do you recommend?” This is especially useful when trying local dishes like tempura or soba noodles.
For those moments when you need to ask for assistance, or if you’re looking for a restroom, “Toire wa doko desu ka?” (トイレはどこですか?) means “Where is the bathroom?” It’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with this phrase before heading out for the day, as public restrooms are not always easy to find.
Asakusa can also be a bustling place with a lot of people, so if you’re in a crowd or trying to squeeze through a tight space, “Sumimasen” (すみません) works perfectly as a polite way to excuse yourself or get through. Whether it’s on the streets, in shops, or at tourist sites, this phrase will help you navigate busy areas with ease.
Lastly, in case you need emergency assistance, knowing how to ask for help is crucial. If you’re feeling unwell or lost, saying “Tasuke te kudasai” (助けてください), meaning “Please help me,” will get the attention of locals who are likely to assist you. Alternatively, “Keisatsu” (警察), meaning “Police,” can be helpful in cases where you need to contact authorities.
By preparing yourself with these “Useful Phrases for Foreigners” in Asakusa, you’ll not only make your trip smoother but also show respect for the local culture, enriching your experience. Remember, even if you’re not fluent in Japanese, locals will appreciate your effort to speak their language. These simple phrases will go a long way in ensuring a memorable and enjoyable visit to Asakusa.
While exploring Asakusa, don’t hesitate to engage with the locals, whether you’re shopping, dining, or just wandering around. Learning a few key phrases and using them confidently will open up more opportunities to interact with the friendly residents, giving you an authentic glimpse of life in this historic district of Tokyo.
2. Asking for Directions in Asakusa
Navigating through Asakusa can be an exciting and enriching experience, but for foreigners, the language barrier can sometimes pose a challenge when trying to find your way around. Asakusa is a bustling district, filled with temples, shops, restaurants, and narrow streets, and having the ability to ask for directions in Japanese can be incredibly useful. While signs in tourist areas are often bilingual and many locals are accustomed to dealing with foreigners, learning a few basic phrases will make your journey through this iconic Tokyo neighborhood much smoother.
If you’re unsure where to go or how to get there, asking for directions in a respectful and clear manner is key. Let’s start with some essential phrases that will help you when you need assistance finding your way in Asakusa.
One of the most useful and simple phrases to know when asking for directions is “Doko desu ka?” (どこですか?), which means “Where is it?” You can use this phrase when you’re looking for a specific location, whether it’s a famous landmark like the Senso-ji Temple or a particular shop you want to visit. For instance, if you’re trying to find the Senso-ji Temple, simply ask, “Senso-ji wa doko desu ka?” (浅草寺はどこですか?), meaning “Where is Senso-ji Temple?” This question will likely be understood by most locals and help guide you in the right direction.
If you’re trying to find a specific street or area, “〇〇 wa doko desu ka?” (〇〇はどこですか?) can be very helpful. For example, if you’re looking for Nakamise Street, a popular shopping street near the Senso-ji Temple, you can ask, “Nakamise-dori wa doko desu ka?” (仲見世通りはどこですか?), which means “Where is Nakamise Street?” Locals are familiar with the main tourist attractions, so this should be an easy question to get an answer to.
Another useful phrase when asking for directions is “Koko kara ikimasu ka?” (ここから行きますか?), which translates to “How do I get there from here?” This is especially helpful if you are already at a particular location and want to know the best route to your destination. For example, if you are standing in front of the Asakusa Station and want to reach the Tokyo Skytree, you could ask, “Asakusa Station kara Tokyo Skytree made ikimasu ka?” (浅草駅から東京スカイツリーまで行きますか?), meaning “How do I get from Asakusa Station to Tokyo Skytree?” By using this phrase, you’ll get clear instructions from the locals on how to proceed.
In Asakusa, there are also multiple ways to get around, such as walking, using public transportation, or taking a rickshaw. If you’re asking about public transportation, knowing a few key terms will help. For example, “Eki wa doko desu ka?” (駅はどこですか?), meaning “Where is the station?” is a simple and effective question to ask if you need to find the nearest train station. If you want to ask about the subway, you can say “Chikatetsu wa doko desu ka?” (地下鉄はどこですか?), meaning “Where is the subway?”
For those who prefer to walk, asking for the nearest walking route can also be useful. In this case, you can ask “Aruku no hou ga ii desu ka?” (歩くの方がいいですか?), which means “Is it better to walk?” This will help you determine if it’s easier to walk to your destination or if public transportation is a better option. Since Asakusa is a popular area for tourists, many people are familiar with these common routes and can point you in the right direction.
In the event that someone gives you directions, it’s good to know a few common directional terms. For instance, “Migi” (右) means “right,” “Hidari” (左) means “left,” and “Massugu” (まっすぐ) means “straight ahead.” These terms will be used frequently when locals explain how to get to your destination. For example, “Massugu itte, migi ni magatte” (まっすぐ行って、右に曲がって) means “Go straight and turn right.” By understanding these simple terms, you will be able to follow directions more easily.
If you ever feel confused or lost, it’s perfectly okay to ask for clarification. You can use the phrase “Wakarimasen” (わかりません), which means “I don’t understand,” to let the person know that you need more explanation. Additionally, “Mou ichido onegaishimasu” (もう一度お願いします), meaning “Please say it again,” is a polite way to ask for directions to be repeated.
Sometimes, if you’re in a crowded or busy area, asking for directions can be a bit tricky, especially with the noise around. In these cases, it’s helpful to start with a polite greeting before asking for help. A simple “Sumimasen” (すみません), which means “Excuse me,” can catch someone’s attention. Adding a polite phrase like “Chotto onegaishimasu” (ちょっとお願いします), meaning “Please, could you help me for a moment?” will make your request sound even more courteous and respectful.
In conclusion, asking for directions in Asakusa is a straightforward task as long as you have a few key phrases in hand. Whether you’re trying to find popular tourist spots like Senso-ji Temple or Nakamise Street, or navigating public transportation, knowing how to ask for help in Japanese will make your experience much more enjoyable. Even if your Japanese isn’t perfect, locals will appreciate your effort, and you’ll be able to get around Asakusa with confidence.
3. Shopping in Asakusa: Essential Phrases
Asakusa is a vibrant and bustling shopping district, with a mix of traditional markets, souvenir shops, and modern retail stores. Whether you’re strolling through Nakamise Street or browsing at small local boutiques, being able to communicate effectively while shopping will enhance your experience and help you navigate the area with ease. While many stores in tourist areas are familiar with English-speaking customers, it’s always useful to know a few essential phrases in Japanese to make your shopping trip in Asakusa more enjoyable.
If you’re just starting to browse, a polite greeting is always appreciated. “Konnichiwa” (こんにちは), meaning “Good afternoon” or “Hello,” is an appropriate greeting when entering a shop. This simple phrase shows respect for the local culture and sets the tone for a pleasant interaction with shop owners or staff. If you need assistance, you can add “Sumimasen” (すみません), which means “Excuse me” or “Sorry,” to politely get someone’s attention.
One of the first things you’ll likely want to know while shopping is the price of an item. To ask “How much is this?” in Japanese, use the phrase “Ikura desu ka?” (いくらですか?). For example, if you’re looking at a small souvenir or a traditional item, you can ask, “Kore wa ikura desu ka?” (これはいくらですか?), meaning “How much is this?” Many shops in Asakusa cater to foreign visitors, so don’t be surprised if the staff responds in basic English, but it’s still polite to ask in Japanese.
If you’re shopping for something specific, like a fan, kimono, or other Japanese products, you might want to ask for more details. For instance, if you want to know if a certain item is available in a different color or size, you can ask, “Hoka no iro wa arimasu ka?” (他の色はありますか?), meaning “Do you have other colors?” If you’re looking for a specific size or variation, you can also say, “Chikaku ni arimasu ka?” (近くにありますか?), meaning “Is it available nearby?”
Asakusa is a great place to buy traditional Japanese items like yukata (summer kimono), Japanese fans, or unique souvenirs. If you’re interested in a specific product, it’s important to know how to ask about it. For example, if you’re shopping for Japanese sweets, you can ask, “Wagashi wa arimasu ka?” (和菓子はありますか?), meaning “Do you have Japanese sweets?” This can be particularly useful when you’re exploring the small food stalls or shops that line Nakamise Street.
In case you’re unsure of the quality or authenticity of a product, you may want to ask, “Kore wa honmono desu ka?” (これは本物ですか?), meaning “Is this real/authentic?” This phrase is particularly useful when purchasing high-quality items like souvenirs or traditional crafts. If you’re looking for something that is specific to Asakusa, such as a local specialty, you can ask, “Asakusa no tokubetsu na omiyage wa arimasu ka?” (浅草の特別なお土産はありますか?), which translates to “Do you have any special Asakusa souvenirs?”
If you’re concerned about the price, especially with items that might seem expensive, it’s common to ask for a discount or inquire if there’s a sale. You can politely ask, “Wakarimasen ga, waribiki wa arimasu ka?” (わかりませんが、割引はありますか?), meaning “I’m not sure, but do you offer any discounts?” While not all shops offer discounts, some will be willing to negotiate, especially if you’re buying multiple items.
Once you’ve decided on your purchases, it’s time to pay. In Japan, it’s customary to pay at the cash register, and many shops in Asakusa accept both cash and credit cards. If you’re paying with cash, be sure to have some yen on hand. For example, ¥1000 (around $7.50 USD) is a common note to carry, but some smaller shops may only accept cash. When it’s time to pay, the cashier will likely say, “Arigatou gozaimasu” (ありがとうございます), meaning “Thank you very much.” You can reply with “Arigatou gozaimashita” (ありがとうございました), a polite way to express gratitude after making a purchase.
If you’re planning to use a credit card or asking about other forms of payment, you can ask, “Krediito kaado wa tsukaemasu ka?” (クレジットカードは使えますか?), meaning “Do you accept credit cards?” This is especially important for tourists, as not all small shops or food stalls in Asakusa will accept cards, so it’s good to check beforehand. If you’re paying with a large denomination and need change, you can simply say, “O-tsuri wa ikura desu ka?” (お釣りはいくらですか?), which means “How much is the change?”
If you’re at a store with multiple floors or various departments, you can also ask for help by saying, “Naka ni ikitai no desu ga, doko desu ka?” (中に行きたいのですが、どこですか?), meaning “I would like to go inside, where is it?” This is helpful when you’re looking for a specific department or area, like the cosmetics section or accessories.
In Asakusa, you’ll also find a variety of souvenir shops, many of which specialize in traditional Japanese crafts. If you’re looking for a specific item, like a hand-painted fan or a ceramic plate, you might say, “Kore wa omiyage ni totemo ii desu ne” (これはお土産にとてもいいですね), meaning “This is a great souvenir.” This comment shows appreciation for the craftsmanship and helps create a friendly atmosphere in the shop.
Asakusa offers a wide range of shopping experiences, from street stalls to upscale boutiques. Being able to communicate in simple Japanese will not only make your shopping easier but will also enhance your interaction with the locals. Whether you’re buying a souvenir, negotiating a price, or simply asking for help, knowing the right phrases can turn your shopping experience into an enjoyable and memorable part of your trip to Asakusa.
4. Dining and Ordering Food in Asakusa
Asakusa is not only famous for its historic temples and bustling streets but also for its rich culinary offerings. From traditional Japanese sweets to savory dishes like tempura and soba, the area offers a wide range of dining options that can be both exciting and slightly intimidating for foreigners, especially when it comes to ordering food in Japanese. To help ease the experience, it’s beneficial to learn a few essential phrases to make your dining experience smoother and more enjoyable.
When you first enter a restaurant or food stall, a polite greeting is always appreciated. A simple “Konnichiwa” (こんにちは), meaning “Good afternoon” or “Hello,” is the most common greeting used. If you’re at a more casual food stall or shop, “Sumimasen” (すみません), which means “Excuse me” or “Sorry,” can also be used to get the staff’s attention when entering. This is a polite way to acknowledge the staff and let them know you’re ready to order.
Once you’re seated or ready to order, you might want to ask for the menu. “Menu wa arimasu ka?” (メニューはありますか?) means “Do you have a menu?” If you’re dining at a more traditional restaurant, you might be offered a tea or water first. In such cases, you can politely say “Arigatou gozaimasu” (ありがとうございます), meaning “Thank you,” as the staff hands you your drink.
When it comes time to order, there are a few common phrases that can be used depending on what you’re looking to try. If you know what you want to eat, you can simply say, “Kore wo kudasai” (これをください), which means “I’ll have this, please.” If you’re unsure what to order and want to ask for a recommendation, “O-susume wa nan desu ka?” (おすすめは何ですか?) meaning “What do you recommend?” will help you get suggestions from the staff. This phrase can be especially useful in local restaurants that serve dishes you’re not familiar with.
For those who prefer vegetarian or special dietary options, knowing how to express dietary restrictions is important. If you don’t eat meat, you can say, “Niku wa tabemasu ga, sakana wa tabemasu” (肉は食べますが、魚は食べます), which means “I eat meat, but I eat fish.” In case you’re vegetarian, “Watashi wa bejitarian desu” (私はベジタリアンです), which translates to “I am a vegetarian,” can help convey your dietary preference. While Japanese cuisine is rich with seafood, many restaurants will accommodate dietary restrictions with prior notice.
If you want to ask about the ingredients in a dish, you can use the phrase, “Kore wa nani ga haitte imasu ka?” (これは何が入っていますか?), meaning “What is in this?” For example, if you’re ordering tempura or sushi and are unsure of the ingredients, this phrase helps clarify the contents of a dish before you decide to order it.
When you’re ready to place your order, a simple “Kore wo onegaishimasu” (これをお願いします) is the polite way to say, “I’d like this, please.” If you want to try multiple items, you can add “to” (と) between items, such as “Sushi to tempura wo onegaishimasu” (寿司と天ぷらをお願いします), meaning “I’ll have sushi and tempura, please.”
Once the food arrives, it’s polite to express gratitude. You can say “Itadakimasu” (いただきます) before eating, which means “I humbly receive” and is a traditional phrase used before meals in Japan. After the meal, when you’re finished, you can say “Gochisousama deshita” (ごちそうさまでした), which means “Thank you for the meal” and is a gesture of appreciation to the chef or staff.
If you’re interested in dessert or a drink, you can ask about them with phrases like “Dessert wa arimasu ka?” (デザートはありますか?), which means “Do you have dessert?” If you want a specific drink, for example, a cup of green tea, you can say “Ocha wo kudasai” (お茶をください), which means “Please give me tea.”
For those dining at a place where the staff speaks English, some restaurants may also have bilingual menus or English-speaking servers. However, it’s always nice to try using a few phrases in Japanese, especially in more traditional or family-owned establishments. Many locals appreciate the effort, and it can often lead to a more positive and friendly exchange.
When it comes to paying, you can ask, “Okanjou wo onegaishimasu” (お勘定をお願いします), which means “The check, please.” Some restaurants in Asakusa offer the convenience of paying at the counter after the meal, while others may bring the bill to your table. If you’re paying with cash, be sure to have yen on hand, as some places may not accept credit cards, especially smaller restaurants. When paying with yen, ¥1000 (around $7.50 USD) is a common denomination, but it’s always good to check in advance if you need change.
If you want to leave a tip (though not customary in Japan), it’s polite to round up the total amount or simply leave a small amount of loose change. While tipping is not a standard practice in Japan, your kind gesture is appreciated, but it’s certainly not expected.
Dining in Asakusa can be a delightful part of your travel experience, especially with the variety of authentic dishes and local flavors. Using a few basic phrases to order food or communicate your preferences will make the process much easier and more enjoyable. With the help of these “Useful Phrases for Foreigners,” you’ll be able to enjoy everything from sushi to sweet treats without any language barriers, all while showing respect for Japanese culture.
5. Emergency Phrases: What to Do in a Crisis
When traveling in a foreign country, emergencies can happen unexpectedly. While Asakusa is generally a safe and welcoming place, it’s important to be prepared for situations that might require urgent help, whether it’s a medical issue, getting lost, or needing assistance from the police. Knowing a few key emergency phrases in Japanese can make all the difference in ensuring that you get the help you need when you’re in a crisis. Here are some essential phrases that every foreigner should know in case of an emergency in Asakusa.
If you find yourself in need of medical assistance, it’s crucial to be able to ask for help quickly. The phrase “Tasukete kudasai” (助けてください), which means “Please help me,” is your go-to expression when you’re in immediate distress. This phrase is simple but powerful, and people will understand that you require urgent help. If you’re unable to communicate what’s wrong, but you’re clearly injured or unwell, repeating “Tasukete” (助けて) with a distressed tone can alert bystanders that you need assistance.
If you’re feeling unwell or need medical attention, another important phrase is “Byouki desu” (病気です), meaning “I am sick.” If you’re experiencing a specific issue, like stomach pain or dizziness, you can say, “Onaka ga itai desu” (お腹が痛いです), meaning “My stomach hurts,” or “Me ga mawarimasu” (目が回ります), which means “I feel dizzy.” If you suspect that something more serious is happening, such as a heart attack or an injury, you can ask, “Kei o dasu koto ga dekimasu ka?” (ケイを出すことができますか?), meaning “Can you call an ambulance?” or more simply, “Kyuu kyuu sha” (救急車), which means “Ambulance.”
When you’re in need of urgent medical care and need to explain your situation, the phrase “Eisei shisetsu wa doko desu ka?” (衛生施設はどこですか?), meaning “Where is the medical facility?” or “Byouin wa doko desu ka?” (病院はどこですか?), meaning “Where is the hospital?” will be useful. Hospitals in Asakusa may not always be nearby, so asking for directions to the nearest hospital is essential.
If you’re dealing with an injury that requires first aid, you can ask for basic help by saying, “Kesu kou ga hitsuyou desu” (消毒が必要です), which means “I need disinfectant.” If you need something like bandages, “Banda-i wa arimasu ka?” (バンドエイドはありますか?) means “Do you have band-aids?”
In case of fire or other natural disasters, it’s important to know how to alert others and call for help. The phrase “Kaji desu!” (火事です!), which means “Fire!” is useful if you see a fire and need to warn people nearby. If there’s a natural disaster like an earthquake, which is relatively common in Japan, “Jishin desu!” (地震です!), meaning “Earthquake!” is a helpful warning to raise awareness.
For other emergencies that require police assistance, such as losing your wallet or getting into a confrontation, “Keisatsu wo yonde kudasai” (警察を呼んでください), which means “Please call the police,” will alert those around you to your situation. In case of theft or if your belongings are stolen, you might want to say, “Torimono sareta!” (盗まれた！), which means “I’ve been robbed!” If you need help in finding your way back to a specific location, you can ask, “Doko ni imasu ka?” (どこにいますか?), meaning “Where am I?” This is helpful if you’ve become disoriented in a large crowd or unfamiliar area.
Sometimes, you may just need general help in navigating the situation. The phrase “Doushite?” (どうして？), meaning “Why?” can help clarify what’s going wrong or why an action is being taken. If you need immediate assistance in understanding directions or understanding what’s happening, it’s best to ask, “Wakarimasen” (わかりません), meaning “I don’t understand,” followed by “Tasukete kudasai” (助けてください), which means “Please help me.”
In the case of needing to communicate basic emergency details to someone who might speak a little English, knowing the phrases “I need help” and “Call the police” can be important to ensure they can respond quickly. You can also use “Eigo wa hanasemasu ka?” (英語は話せますか?), meaning “Do you speak English?” This will help in finding someone who might understand you and assist you in an emergency.
If you have a more specific medical need or are allergic to certain foods or substances, it’s useful to carry a written card with your medical information, including the phrase “I am allergic to” followed by the substance, such as “Kudamono” (果物) for fruit or “Shokuhin” (食品) for food in general. This will help in any emergency situation where you may need to explain your condition in detail to a doctor or pharmacist.
Understanding how to ask for help in emergencies is critical for anyone traveling, and being prepared can ease a lot of anxiety should something unexpected happen. Whether it’s a medical issue, a natural disaster, or a personal situation, these “Useful Phrases for Foreigners” will help you stay calm and communicate effectively in a crisis. As with any trip abroad, it’s always a good idea to have emergency contact numbers, such as Japan’s emergency services number (110 for police and 119 for fire and medical emergencies) written down in case of a situation where you need immediate assistance.
In Asakusa, the local community is very supportive of tourists, and knowing the right emergency phrases can help you feel more confident and secure while enjoying everything this historic neighborhood has to offer.
