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1. Basic Greetings and Polite Expressions
When exploring Asakusa, it’s essential to know some basic Japanese greetings and polite expressions. Asakusa is a historical area filled with traditional temples, street markets, and friendly locals who appreciate visitors making an effort to speak Japanese. While many places cater to foreign tourists, using simple Japanese phrases can enhance your experience and make interactions more enjoyable. Here are some useful expressions to remember:
Common Greetings
– **こんにちは (Konnichiwa)** – Hello / Good afternoon
This is a standard greeting used during the daytime. It’s polite and appropriate for most situations.
– **おはようございます (Ohayou gozaimasu)** – Good morning
Used before noon, this greeting is slightly formal and commonly heard at hotels, restaurants, and shops.
– **こんばんは (Konbanwa)** – Good evening
This greeting is used in the late afternoon and evening, perfect when visiting Asakusa’s night spots.
– **さようなら (Sayounara)** – Goodbye
While often taught as “goodbye,” it’s a bit formal. Instead, many Japanese people use **またね (Mata ne)** (See you later) in casual situations.
Polite Expressions
– **ありがとうございます (Arigatou gozaimasu)** – Thank you very much
A key phrase for expressing gratitude. When receiving change from a purchase or getting assistance, use this to show appreciation.
– **すみません (Sumimasen)** – Excuse me / Sorry
This is a versatile phrase used to get someone’s attention, apologize, or say “excuse me” when moving through a crowd.
– **お願いします (Onegai shimasu)** – Please
Often used when making requests, such as ordering food or asking for help. For example:
*”水をお願いします (Mizu o onegai shimasu)” – “Water, please.”*
– **大丈夫です (Daijoubu desu)** – It’s okay / No, thank you
Useful when declining something politely, such as when street vendors offer products you’re not interested in.
Introducing Yourself
– **私は [名前] です (Watashi wa [name] desu)** – I am [name]
A simple way to introduce yourself when meeting locals.
– **[国] から来ました ([Kuni] kara kimashita)** – I am from [country]
When interacting with friendly locals, mentioning your country can be a great conversation starter. For example:
*”アメリカから来ました (Amerika kara kimashita)” – “I am from the United States.”*
Interacting with Locals in Asakusa
– **浅草は初めてです (Asakusa wa hajimete desu)** – This is my first time in Asakusa
A great phrase to use when talking to shop owners or locals. Many will happily give recommendations if they know you’re a first-time visitor.
– **おすすめは何ですか？(Osusume wa nan desu ka?)** – What do you recommend?
If you’re unsure about what to eat at a street stall or a restaurant, use this phrase to ask for local recommendations.
– **写真を撮ってもいいですか？(Shashin o totte mo ii desu ka?)** – May I take a photo?
Some traditional shops or shrines may have restrictions on photography. Asking politely before taking pictures shows respect for the local culture.
Asakusa sightseeing is more enjoyable when you can communicate with locals using these simple phrases. While many Japanese people are used to helping **外国人 (foreign visitors)**, they appreciate the effort to speak their language. Even if your pronunciation isn’t perfect, trying these expressions will make your interactions more meaningful.
2. Asking for Directions in Asakusa
Asakusa is a popular destination for **外国人 (foreign visitors)**, known for its historic temples, traditional shopping streets, and vibrant atmosphere. While exploring, you may find yourself needing directions, whether to **Senso-ji Temple**, a nearby train station, or a recommended street food stall. Although some signs in Asakusa are in English, asking locals for directions can be helpful, and knowing basic Japanese phrases will make the experience smoother. Here are some essential phrases for asking and understanding directions during **Asakusa sightseeing**.
Basic Phrases for Asking Directions
– **すみません、[場所] はどこですか？ (Sumimasen, [basho] wa doko desu ka?)** – Excuse me, where is [place]?
This is the most straightforward way to ask for directions. Replace **[場所] (basho)** with the place you are looking for:
*Example:*
*”すみません、浅草寺はどこですか？” (Sumimasen, Senso-ji wa doko desu ka?)* – “Excuse me, where is Senso-ji Temple?”
– **[場所] へ行きたいです ([basho] e ikitai desu)** – I want to go to [place].
A polite way to express your destination.
*Example:*
*”雷門へ行きたいです。” (Kaminarimon e ikitai desu.)* – “I want to go to Kaminarimon.”
– **[場所] までどうやって行けばいいですか？ ([basho] made dou yatte ikeba ii desu ka?)** – How can I get to [place]?
This phrase is useful when asking for detailed directions.
*Example:*
*”浅草駅までどうやって行けばいいですか？” (Asakusa-eki made dou yatte ikeba ii desu ka?)* – “How can I get to Asakusa Station?”
Understanding Directions
When a local gives directions, they may use simple words and gestures, but it helps to know common directional phrases:
– **まっすぐ行ってください (Massugu itte kudasai)** – Please go straight.
– **右に曲がってください (Migi ni magatte kudasai)** – Please turn right.
– **左に曲がってください (Hidari ni magatte kudasai)** – Please turn left.
– **この道を進んでください (Kono michi o susunde kudasai)** – Please go along this road.
– **信号を渡ってください (Shingou o watatte kudasai)** – Please cross the traffic light.
– **そこにあります (Soko ni arimasu)** – It is over there.
– **ここから近いです (Koko kara chikai desu)** – It is close from here.
– **少し遠いです (Sukoshi tooi desu)** – It is a little far.
Asking for the Nearest Station or Bus Stop
Asakusa is well-connected by public transportation, and you may need help finding the nearest station or bus stop.
– **一番近い駅はどこですか？ (Ichiban chikai eki wa doko desu ka?)** – Where is the nearest station?
– **一番近いバス停はどこですか？ (Ichiban chikai basutei wa doko desu ka?)** – Where is the nearest bus stop?
– **この電車は浅草駅に行きますか？ (Kono densha wa Asakusa-eki ni ikimasu ka?)** – Does this train go to Asakusa Station?
– **このバスは雷門に止まりますか？ (Kono basu wa Kaminarimon ni tomarimasu ka?)** – Does this bus stop at Kaminarimon?
Asking About Time and Distance
– **ここから[場所] までどのくらいかかりますか？ (Koko kara [basho] made dono kurai kakarimasu ka?)** – How long does it take from here to [place]?
*Example:*
*”ここから東京スカイツリーまでどのくらいかかりますか？” (Koko kara Tokyo Skytree made dono kurai kakarimasu ka?)* – “How long does it take from here to Tokyo Skytree?”
– **徒歩で何分くらいですか？ (Toho de nan-pun kurai desu ka?)** – How many minutes does it take on foot?
– **電車で何分くらいですか？ (Densha de nan-pun kurai desu ka?)** – How many minutes does it take by train?
Understanding Prices for Transportation
When traveling around Asakusa and Tokyo, it’s helpful to ask about train or bus fares.
– **[場所] までいくらですか？ ([basho] made ikura desu ka?)** – How much is it to [place]?
*Example:*
*”浅草駅までいくらですか？” (Asakusa-eki made ikura desu ka?)* – “How much is it to Asakusa Station?”
– **切符はどこで買えますか？ (Kippu wa doko de kaemasu ka?)** – Where can I buy a ticket?
– **スイカカードは使えますか？ (Suica kaado wa tsukaemasu ka?)** – Can I use a Suica card?
Tips for Asking Directions in Asakusa
– Many locals in Asakusa are used to helping **外国人 (foreign visitors)**, so don’t hesitate to ask for help.
– If you are lost, showing a map on your phone or pointing at a destination name written in Japanese can make communication easier.
– Using simple Japanese phrases with a polite attitude will often lead to friendly interactions, making **Asakusa sightseeing** even more enjoyable.
3. Ordering Food at Restaurants and Street Stalls
Asakusa is one of the best places for food lovers, offering a wide range of traditional Japanese dishes and street food. Whether you want to enjoy **tempura, sushi, ramen, or taiyaki**, knowing some essential Japanese phrases will make your dining experience more enjoyable. Many restaurants and street stalls cater to **外国人 (foreign visitors)**, but using simple Japanese can enhance communication and help you better understand the menu. Here are some useful phrases to help you order food during your **Asakusa sightseeing**.
Entering a Restaurant and Getting a Seat
– **すみません、空いていますか？ (Sumimasen, aiteimasu ka?)** – Excuse me, do you have a seat available?
If the restaurant is busy, this phrase will help you check for availability.
– **何名様ですか？ (Nan-mei sama desu ka?)** – How many people?
The staff will often ask this question. You can respond with:
*”一人です (Hitori desu)” – I am alone.*
*”二人です (Futari desu)” – We are two.*
– **カウンター席でもいいですか？ (Kauntaa seki demo ii desu ka?)** – Is a counter seat okay?
Many small restaurants in Asakusa have counter seating, especially ramen shops and izakayas.
Looking at the Menu
– **メニューを見せてください (Menyuu o misete kudasai)** – Please show me the menu.
Some restaurants have English menus, but many small places only have Japanese menus.
– **おすすめは何ですか？ (Osusume wa nan desu ka?)** – What do you recommend?
If you’re unsure what to order, asking for a recommendation is a great way to try something new.
– **ベジタリアンメニューはありますか？ (Bejitarian menyuu wa arimasu ka?)** – Do you have a vegetarian menu?
Useful if you don’t eat meat.
Placing an Order
– **[料理] をお願いします ([ryouri] o onegai shimasu)** – I would like [dish], please.
*Example:*
*”天ぷらそばをお願いします (Tempura soba o onegai shimasu)”* – “I would like tempura soba, please.”
– **セットメニューはありますか？ (Setto menyuu wa arimasu ka?)** – Do you have a set meal?
Many restaurants offer set meals that include rice, miso soup, and pickles.
– **持ち帰りできますか？ (Mochikaeri dekimasu ka?)** – Can I take this to go?
If you prefer to take your meal outside, this phrase is useful.
– **辛くしないでください (Karakushinaide kudasai)** – Please make it not spicy.
Useful if you don’t like spicy food.
At a Street Stall
Asakusa has many famous street food stalls offering **taiyaki (fish-shaped cake), ningyo-yaki (small filled cakes), melonpan (sweet bread), and dango (sweet dumplings)**. Since these stalls are busy, you may need quick phrases to order.
– **これをください (Kore o kudasai)** – I’ll take this, please.
(Point at the food item you want.)
– **いくらですか？ (Ikura desu ka?)** – How much is this?
If the price is not displayed, this phrase will help.
– **[数量] 個ください ([suuryou] ko kudasai)** – I’d like [number] pieces, please.
*Example:*
*”二個ください (Ni-ko kudasai)”* – “Two, please.”
– **袋に入れてください (Fukuro ni irete kudasai)** – Please put it in a bag.
Useful if you’re buying multiple items and want them packed together.
Paying the Bill
– **お会計お願いします (Okaikei onegai shimasu)** – The bill, please.
When you’re ready to pay at a restaurant, use this phrase to call for the check.
– **現金で払えますか？ (Genkin de haraemasu ka?)** – Can I pay in cash?
Some small restaurants and stalls only accept cash, so it’s good to check.
– **クレジットカードは使えますか？ (Kurejitto kaado wa tsukaemasu ka?)** – Can I use a credit card?
While large restaurants accept cards, smaller shops may not.
– **いくらですか？ (Ikura desu ka?)** – How much is it?
If the total price isn’t shown, ask with this phrase.
– **おつりはいりません (Otsuri wa irimasen)** – Keep the change.
If you want to leave a small tip (though tipping is not common in Japan), you can say this.
Enjoying Your Meal in Asakusa
Using these Japanese phrases will make ordering food smoother and more enjoyable. Whether at a traditional restaurant or a busy street stall, a little effort in speaking Japanese will be appreciated by locals and make your **Asakusa sightseeing** more immersive.
4. Shopping and Souvenir Hunting Phrases
Asakusa is one of Tokyo’s best places for **外国人 (foreign visitors)** looking to buy traditional Japanese souvenirs. Nakamise Street, located in front of **Senso-ji Temple**, is filled with shops selling items like **yukata (light cotton kimono), folding fans, Japanese sweets, and handcrafted goods**. Whether you’re looking for gifts or a personal memento from your **Asakusa sightseeing**, knowing basic Japanese phrases can make your shopping experience more enjoyable. Here are some useful expressions to help you navigate the stores and interact with shopkeepers.
Entering a Store and Asking for Items
– **すみません、[商品] はありますか？ (Sumimasen, [shouhin] wa arimasu ka?)** – Excuse me, do you have [item]?
*Example:*
*”すみません、浴衣はありますか？ (Sumimasen, yukata wa arimasu ka?)”* – “Excuse me, do you have yukata?”
– **これは何ですか？ (Kore wa nan desu ka?)** – What is this?
If you find an interesting item and want to learn more about it.
– **どこで [商品] を買えますか？ (Doko de [shouhin] o kaemasu ka?)** – Where can I buy [item]?
If the shop doesn’t carry what you’re looking for, the staff may direct you to another place.
– **もっと安いものはありますか？ (Motto yasui mono wa arimasu ka?)** – Do you have something cheaper?
If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option.
Asking About Prices and Payment
– **いくらですか？ (Ikura desu ka?)** – How much is this?
One of the most essential phrases for shopping.
– **これは税込みですか？ (Kore wa zeikomi desu ka?)** – Is tax included?
Some stores display tax-excluded prices, so it’s good to check.
– **免税になりますか？ (Menzei ni narimasu ka?)** – Is this tax-free?
Many stores in Asakusa offer tax-free shopping for foreigners if you show your passport.
– **カードは使えますか？ (Kaado wa tsukaemasu ka?)** – Can I use a credit card?
Some smaller shops only accept cash, so it’s useful to ask.
– **現金で払えますか？ (Genkin de haraemasu ka?)** – Can I pay in cash?
If you prefer to pay with cash.
– **おつりはいりません (Otsuri wa irimasen)** – Keep the change.
While tipping is not common in Japan, in small transactions, you might want to say this.
Checking Sizes and Colors
– **試着できますか？ (Shichaku dekimasu ka?)** – Can I try this on?
Useful when buying clothing like yukata or traditional shirts.
– **これの大きいサイズはありますか？ (Kore no ookii saizu wa arimasu ka?)** – Do you have a bigger size for this?
Japanese sizes are often smaller than Western ones, so this phrase is helpful.
– **これの小さいサイズはありますか？ (Kore no chiisai saizu wa arimasu ka?)** – Do you have a smaller size for this?
– **違う色はありますか？ (Chigau iro wa arimasu ka?)** – Do you have this in a different color?
Buying Traditional Souvenirs
Asakusa is famous for its traditional souvenirs. Here are some phrases for specific shopping situations:
– **手作りですか？ (Tezukuri desu ka?)** – Is this handmade?
If you’re interested in handcrafted goods like pottery or fans.
– **おすすめのお土産は何ですか？ (Osusume no omiyage wa nan desu ka?)** – What souvenirs do you recommend?
Great for discovering local specialties.
– **箱に入れてもらえますか？ (Hako ni irete moraemasu ka?)** – Can you put this in a box?
Useful for fragile items like sweets or ceramics.
Asking About Store Hours and Services
– **何時まで開いていますか？ (Nan-ji made aiteimasu ka?)** – Until what time are you open?
– **予約できますか？ (Yoyaku dekimasu ka?)** – Can I make a reservation?
Some specialty shops allow reservations for limited-edition items.
– **宅配できますか？ (Takuhai dekimasu ka?)** – Do you offer delivery service?
Some stores in Asakusa can ship items domestically or internationally.
Using these simple Japanese phrases can make shopping in Asakusa more enjoyable. Many store owners are friendly and used to helping tourists, but they will appreciate your effort to speak Japanese. Whether you’re buying a beautiful folding fan, traditional sweets, or handcrafted pottery, these phrases will help you communicate smoothly during your **Asakusa sightseeing**.
5. Emergency and Trouble Situations
While **Asakusa sightseeing** is usually a safe and enjoyable experience, unexpected emergencies can happen. Whether it’s getting lost, feeling unwell, or encountering a lost item, knowing key Japanese phrases can help you navigate these situations more smoothly. Many locals are willing to assist **外国人 (foreign visitors)**, but speaking even a little Japanese can make it easier to get the help you need. Below are essential phrases for handling emergencies and trouble situations in Asakusa.
Seeking Help and Asking for Assistance
– **助けてください！(Tasukete kudasai!)** – Please help me!
Use this phrase in urgent situations where immediate help is needed.
– **英語を話せますか？ (Eigo o hanasemasu ka?)** – Can you speak English?
If you need help but are unsure if the person understands English.
– **通訳をお願いできますか？ (Tsuyaku o onegai dekimasu ka?)** – Can I get an interpreter?
Some police stations and hospitals provide interpreter services for foreigners.
– **警察署はどこですか？ (Keisatsu-sho wa doko desu ka?)** – Where is the police station?
If you need to report an incident or seek assistance.
– **交番はどこですか？ (Koban wa doko desu ka?)** – Where is the police box?
Small police boxes (koban) are common in Asakusa and are the best place to go for lost items or minor troubles.
Dealing with Lost Items
– **財布をなくしました (Saifu o nakushimashita)** – I lost my wallet.
– **携帯電話をなくしました (Keitai denwa o nakushimashita)** – I lost my phone.
– **パスポートをなくしました (Pasupooto o nakushimashita)** – I lost my passport.
– **どこで落としたかわかりません (Doko de otoshita ka wakarimasen)** – I don’t know where I dropped it.
– **遺失物センターはどこですか？ (Ishitsubutsu sentaa wa doko desu ka?)** – Where is the lost and found center?
If you lose something in a train station, shopping area, or hotel, asking for the lost and found is helpful.
Health Emergencies and Medical Assistance
– **具合が悪いです (Guai ga warui desu)** – I don’t feel well.
If you suddenly feel sick and need medical attention.
– **病院はどこですか？ (Byouin wa doko desu ka?)** – Where is the hospital?
– **薬局はどこですか？ (Yakkyoku wa doko desu ka?)** – Where is the pharmacy?
If you need medicine for a mild illness.
– **救急車を呼んでください (Kyuukyuusha o yonde kudasai)** – Please call an ambulance.
Use this phrase in a serious emergency requiring immediate medical attention.
– **保険証を持っていません (Hokenshou o motteimasen)** – I don’t have an insurance card.
Some hospitals accept patients without Japanese health insurance but may charge higher fees.
– **英語が話せる医者はいますか？ (Eigo ga hanaseru isha wa imasu ka?)** – Is there a doctor who speaks English?
If you need an English-speaking doctor.
Reporting a Crime or Dangerous Situation
– **スリに遭いました (Suri ni aimashita)** – I was pickpocketed.
Though rare, pickpocketing can happen in crowded tourist areas.
– **警察を呼んでください (Keisatsu o yonde kudasai)** – Please call the police.
If you witness or are involved in a serious incident.
– **誰かにつけられています (Dareka ni tsukerareteimasu)** – Someone is following me.
If you feel unsafe, seek help at a police box (koban) or a nearby store.
– **盗まれました (Nusumaremashita)** – My [item] was stolen.
Use this phrase when reporting theft.
Fire and Natural Disasters
– **火事です！ (Kaji desu!)** – Fire!
If you see or are caught in a fire.
– **地震です！ (Jishin desu!)** – Earthquake!
Earthquakes are common in Japan. If a strong earthquake occurs, follow evacuation instructions.
– **避難場所はどこですか？ (Hinan basho wa doko desu ka?)** – Where is the evacuation area?
Useful during emergencies like earthquakes or fires.
Asking for Directions in an Emergency
– **最寄りの交番はどこですか？ (Moyori no kouban wa doko desu ka?)** – Where is the nearest police box?
– **最寄りの病院はどこですか？ (Moyori no byouin wa doko desu ka?)** – Where is the nearest hospital?
– **タクシーを呼んでください (Takushii o yonde kudasai)** – Please call a taxi.
If you need urgent transportation.
– **助けてくれる人はいますか？ (Tasukete kureru hito wa imasu ka?)** – Is there someone who can help me?
If you’re lost or in trouble and need assistance.
Having these emergency phrases prepared can make your **Asakusa sightseeing** safer and less stressful. Though Japan is generally a very safe country, being proactive and knowing these expressions can help you navigate difficult situations with confidence.
