10 essential Japanese phrases for using public transport
Navigate Japan's public transport like a local with these key phrases!
Getting around Japan independently is incredibly rewarding, and public transport is the key. Buses, trains, and subways are efficient and punctual, making them the best way to explore cities and beyond. Mastering a few basic phrases will not only help you ask for directions or clarify routes but also allow for polite interactions with staff and fellow passengers. This pack will prepare you for common scenarios, ensuring a smoother and more enjoyable journey.
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
- すみません、駅はどこですか？soo-mee-mah-sen, eh-kee wah doh-koh des-kah?Excuse me, where is the station?
- この電車は〇〇に行きますか？koh-noh den-shah wah [place] nee-ee-kee-mas-kah?Does this train go to [place]?
- 〇〇駅で降ります。[place] eh-kee de oh-ree-mas.I will get off at [place] station.
- 切符売り場はどこですか？keep-poo oo-ree-bah wah doh-koh des-kah?Where is the ticket office?
- 〇〇円です。[number] yen des.It is [number] yen.
- 両替はできますか？ryoh-gai wah deh-kee-mas-kah?Can I exchange money?
- バス停はどこですか？bah-soo teh mee wah doh-koh des-kah?Where is the bus stop?
- 〇〇行きのバスはどれですか？[place] ee-kee no bah-soo wah doh-reh des-kah?Which bus is for [place]?
- 次は何番線ですか？tsoo-gee wah nan-bahn-sen des-kah?What is the next platform number?
- ありがとうございます。ah-ree-gah-toh goh-zai-mas.Thank you very much.
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