10 essential Japanese phrases for talking about hobbies
Learn 10 useful Japanese phrases to chat about your hobbies and interests with native speakers.
Hobbies are a fantastic way to connect with people, and Japan is no different! Whether you're striking up a conversation with a new friend or trying to understand someone else's passions, knowing how to talk about pastimes is key. This phrase pack will equip you with the basics to express your own interests and inquire about others'. From asking what someone likes to do in their free time to sharing your favorite activities, these phrases will help you build rapport and deepen your connections.
What this lesson covers
Core Japanese words for everyday conversation.
English meanings, pronunciation hints, and tap-to-hear audio.
A quick flashcard flow and quiz to make the words stick.
Start with these key words
Learn the first set, listen out loud, then move into the full list below.
Flashcards
Practice quiz
Full vocabulary list
Words 1–10
- 趣味は何ですか？shoo-mee wah nan des-ka?What are your hobbies?
- 私の趣味は〜です。wa-ta-shee no shoo-mee wah --- des.My hobby is ~.
- 〜が好きです。--- gah ski des.I like ~.
- 〜をよくします。--- oh yo-ko shee-mas.I often do ~.
- 〜に興味があります。--- nee kyo-mee gah ar-ee-mas.I'm interested in ~.
- 休みの日は何をしますか？kyoo-soo-mee noh hee wah na-nee oh shee-mas-ka?What do you do on your days off?
- 読書dok-shoReading books
- 映画鑑賞ee-gah kang-shoWatching movies
- 音楽を聴くことong-gah-koo oh kee-koo toh-tohListening to music
- スポーツをすることspo-tsoo oh loo koh-tohPlaying sports
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