Learn Japan in 30-second reels
Real phrases for the konbini, the restaurant, the train — each with romaji and English, ready to use the second you land.
All videos
Survival
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Say This One Line First and Watch Every Japanese Person Slow Down for You
nihongo, chotto dake hanasemasu · I can only speak a little Japanese
Survival
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Japanese Has a Phrase That Literally Means I Am About to Be Rude. You Say It First, and Then It's the Politest Thing in the Room.
shitsurei shimasu · Excuse me.
Survival
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A Twelve Thousand Yen Melon Isn't Food in Japan. It's a Greeting Card, and the Counter Staff Are About to Ask Which One You're Buying.
jibun-yō desu · It's for myself.
Beginner
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You Bought the Prettiest Charm on the Shrine Counter for Your Boss. Congratulations on Their Safe Delivery.
kore wa nan no omamori desu ka? · What's this charm for?
Survival
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In Japan the Cashier Might Not Hand You the Receipt. Here's How to Ask.
reshīto kudasai · A receipt, please
Survival
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Hurt Yourself in Japan? The One Word the Doctor Needs to Hear
itai · it hurts / ouch
Beginner
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Tokyo Taxi Feels Like a Sauna? The Polite Way to Ask for AC.
eakon o tsukete kudasai · Please turn on the AC.
Survival
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Out Late in Tokyo? Miss This Train and You're Stuck Till Dawn
shūden wa nanji desu ka? · What time is the last train?
Survival
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Three Melting Ice Cubes in Your Drink? Ask for More Like This.
kōri o onegai shimasu · Ice, please.
Survival
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The Konbini Question That Freezes Every Tourist
iie, kekkō desu · No, I'm fine, thank you
Survival
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Feeling Sick in the Japan Heat? The One Phrase That Gets You Help Fast
kibun ga warui desu · I feel unwell
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