Asking for Directions in Japan | 道の尋ね方

How to Ask for Directions in Japan

Whether you’re a tourist or a newcomer, asking for directions is an essential skill for navigating through Japan. Here are some basic phrases and conversations to help you ask for directions:

Basic Phrases for Asking Directions

• Sumimasen, [place name] wa doko desu ka? : すみません。[場所の名前]は、どこですか？(Excuse me, where is [place name]?)
• [Place name] e ikitai desu. : [場所の名前]へ行きたいです。
  (I want to go to [place name].)
• Koko kara [place name] made dorekurai kakarimasu ka?: ここから[場所の名前]までどれくらいかかりますか？
  (How far is it from here to [place name]?)
• [Place name] wa, donoeki ga chikaidesu ka? : [場所の名前]は、どの駅がちかいですか？
  (Which station is closest to [place name]?)

Conversations for Asking Directions

Conversation 1:
A: Sumimasen, kono chizu wo mite kudasai. (Excuse me, can you please look at this map?)
B: Hai, douzo. (Yes, please.)
A: Kore wa, [place name] no chizu desu. [Place name] wa doko desu ka? (This is a map of [place name]. Where is [place name]?)
B: Ah, [place name] wa koko desu. (Ah, [place name] is here.)

Conversation 2:
A: Sumimasen, [place name] wa doko desu ka? (Excuse me, where is [place name]?)
B: [Place name] desu ka? Sore wa chotto muzukashii desu ne. (You mean [place name]? That’s a bit difficult.)
A: Hai, sou desu. (Yes, that’s right.)
B: Soko kara, migi ni magatte itte, tsugi no kousaten wo hidari ni magatte itte, soshite mata migi ni itte kudasai. (From here, turn right, then turn left at the next intersection, and then turn right again.)

By knowing these phrases and conversations, you can navigate your way around Japan with ease. Don’t be afraid to ask for help, as the Japanese people are generally friendly and willing to assist you in finding your way.