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Ayana Okamoto

The “Travelling Japan/Japanese lesson for travelers (JLPT N5 level) ” is Japanese study materials for beginners who are interested in learning Japanese and preparing for their trip to Japan.  I’ve created this course based on interviewing around 30 of my current and past students who travelled to Japan or were planning to travel to Japan. You can study vocabulary, expressions and a little bit of Japanese culture that correspond to travelling situation. Throughout the course, I will guide you to common Japanese phrases during your trip.  At the end of the course, you will be able to speak basic sentences slowly as well as listening to basic phrases which Japanese people will likely talk to during your trip. This course covers around 50 travel phrases travellers should know in Japanese. In addition, you will lean Japanese manners and culture etiquette in the last of the course.

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The “Travelling Japan/Japanese lesson for travelers (JLPT N5 level) ” is Japanese study materials for beginners who are interested in learning Japanese and preparing for their trip to Japan.  I’ve created this course based on interviewing around 30 of my current and past students who travelled to Japan or were planning to travel to Japan. You can study vocabulary, expressions and a little bit of Japanese culture that correspond to travelling situation. Throughout the course, I will guide you to common Japanese phrases during your trip.  At the end of the course, you will be able to speak basic sentences slowly as well as listening to basic phrases which Japanese people will likely talk to during your trip. This course covers around 50 travel phrases travellers should know in Japanese. In addition, you will lean Japanese manners and culture etiquette in the last of the course.

All of the narration contains English and romaji, so that those learning Japanese for the first time can freely study the materials. In addition, you can download PDF, so that all learners can take them with your trip and study effectively. Hope your Japan trip will go smooth and bit more confident in speaking with Japanese people.

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What's inside

Learning objectives

  • You will learn a lot of vocabulary, pronunciation and phrases which you will come across when you are staying in japan.
  • Phrases which are used during your japan trip or business trip to japan
  • You will be able to communicate your "dietary restrictions" "basic requests" "shopping" and "directions" etc
  • If you have dietary restrictions, learn some basic japanese food terminology and common dish names before you go.
  • Japanese culture and etiquette such as how to use public baths or business manners etc
  • You will gain confidence ordering food or drink at a restaurant or fast-food place.

Syllabus

Introduction
Asking "How much is this?", "What is this?"
Japanese tutor, Ayana Introduction/にほんごきょうし、あやなのじこしょうかい/nihongokyoushi, Ayana
Supplemental materials
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Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Focuses on practical phrases and vocabulary relevant to travel scenarios, such as shopping, dining, and asking for directions, which builds confidence for real-world interactions
Includes cultural etiquette lessons, such as using public baths and business manners, which enhances the travel experience and promotes respectful interactions
Provides downloadable PDFs, which allows learners to easily access and review the material during their trip, reinforcing their learning on the go
Uses romaji alongside Japanese narration, which supports learners who are new to the language and unfamiliar with Japanese script, making the material more accessible
Covers hiragana and katakana pronunciation, which builds a foundation for reading and understanding basic Japanese text encountered during travel
Requires learners to study hiragana and katakana, which may be time-consuming for learners who want to focus on speaking and listening skills

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Reviews summary

Japanese travel phrases course insights

According to learners, this course is a practical and focused guide specifically designed for tourists heading to Japan. It provides essential vocabulary and phrases covering key travel scenarios like shopping, dining, and navigating. Students find the inclusion of Romaji and English support makes it highly accessible for absolute beginners. The course also includes valuable insights into Japanese culture and etiquette, which many learners appreciate. While praised for its travel-specific focus, some point out it's not intended as a comprehensive language course for general fluency. The downloadable PDF materials are highlighted as a useful resource for quick reference while traveling.
PDFs are great for on-the-go use.
"The downloadable PDFs of the lessons are super convenient to use while actually traveling."
"Being able to reference the phrases offline on my phone was a lifesaver."
"Great to have summaries available to take with you."
Valuable tips on culture and manners.
"The sections on Japanese culture and etiquette were very informative and helpful before my trip."
"Learning about customs like using public baths or dining manners was a great addition."
"Provided useful cultural context alongside the language."
Good vocabulary and pronunciation help.
"The vocabulary lists provided are spot on for common travel needs like shopping and dining."
"I appreciated the clear guidance on how to pronounce the different words and phrases correctly."
"Helped me build the necessary vocabulary for basic interactions."
Accessible for absolute beginners.
"This was my first time learning Japanese, and I found this course incredibly easy to follow from zero knowledge."
"The use of Romaji and English explanations made it perfect for someone just starting out."
"Doesn't assume any previous understanding of the language."
Focuses on useful travel phrases.
"The phrases taught are exactly what I needed for my trip; very practical for real situations."
"Learned how to order food, ask for prices, and find things. Extremely useful!"
"The course focuses on real-life scenarios you will actually encounter as a tourist in Japan."
Covers travel needs, not general Japanese.
"It's important to know this course is for travel phrases only, not learning comprehensive Japanese grammar."
"Good for specific tourist situations, but don't expect fluency or broad language skills."
"You will need other resources if you want to learn Japanese beyond basic travel communication."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Travelling Japan/Japanese lesson for travelers course with these activities:
Review Basic Japanese Grammar
Strengthen your understanding of basic Japanese grammar to better grasp the sentence structures and nuances taught in the course.
Browse courses on Japanese Grammar
Show steps
  • Review basic sentence patterns.
  • Practice forming simple sentences.
  • Study particles and their functions.
Read 'Genki: An Integrated Course in Elementary Japanese'
Supplement your learning with a comprehensive textbook that covers fundamental Japanese concepts.
Show steps
  • Obtain a copy of the Genki textbook.
  • Work through the first few chapters.
  • Complete the exercises in each chapter.
Practice Hiragana and Katakana
Reinforce your knowledge of Hiragana and Katakana to improve reading speed and comprehension of Japanese text.
Show steps
  • Use online resources to practice writing.
  • Create flashcards for each character.
  • Test yourself regularly.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Create a Travel Phrasebook
Compile a personalized phrasebook with useful Japanese phrases for specific travel scenarios, reinforcing vocabulary and sentence structure.
Show steps
  • Identify common travel situations.
  • Translate relevant phrases into Japanese.
  • Organize phrases by category.
  • Include pronunciation guides.
Practice with a Language Partner
Engage in conversation with a language partner to improve pronunciation, listening comprehension, and fluency in spoken Japanese.
Show steps
  • Find a language exchange partner.
  • Schedule regular practice sessions.
  • Focus on travel-related scenarios.
  • Provide feedback to each other.
Read 'Lonely Planet Japanese Phrasebook & Dictionary'
Use a travel phrasebook to quickly look up useful phrases and improve your communication skills while traveling in Japan.
Show steps
  • Purchase or borrow the phrasebook.
  • Familiarize yourself with the layout.
  • Practice using phrases in context.
Document Your Trip in Japanese
Keep a journal or blog in Japanese during your trip to Japan, documenting your experiences and practicing your language skills in a real-world context.
Show steps
  • Plan to write about your daily activities.
  • Use new vocabulary and phrases.
  • Review your entries for errors.
  • Share your experiences online.

Career center

Learners who complete Travelling Japan/Japanese lesson for travelers course will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Restaurant Server
Restaurant Servers take orders, serve food and drinks, and ensure customer satisfaction in dining establishments. A course like this is invaluable for restaurant servers who work in areas with a large Japanese-speaking clientele or in Japanese restaurants. Learning basic Japanese phrases for ordering, dietary restrictions, and general service can greatly improve communication and customer satisfaction. You will also learn Japanese manners and culture etiquette, which can be helpful in understanding and respecting local customs. This course may help a Restaurant Server who wants to work with Japanese speakers.
Concierge
Concierges provide personalized assistance to guests at hotels or residential buildings, arranging services, offering recommendations, and fulfilling special requests. This course is beneficial for concierges who frequently assist Japanese-speaking guests. Knowing basic Japanese phrases and understanding Japanese etiquette allows concierges to provide more personalized and efficient service. You will also learn Japanese manners and culture etiquette, which can be helpful in understanding and respecting local customs. This course may help a Concierge who wants to work with Japanese speakers.
Retail Salesperson
Retail Salespersons assist customers with purchases, provide product information, and ensure a positive shopping experience. This course can be incredibly beneficial for retail salespersons, particularly those in tourist areas or shops catering to international customers. Being able to communicate in basic Japanese helps to engage with Japanese-speaking customers, understand their needs, and facilitate sales. You will also learn Japanese manners and culture etiquette, which can be helpful in understanding and respecting local customs. This course may help a Retail Salesperson who wants to work with Japanese speakers.
Hotel Receptionist
Hotel Receptionists are the first point of contact for guests, providing information, handling reservations, and ensuring a positive experience. This course can be extremely useful for hotel receptionists who interact with Japanese-speaking guests. Being able to understand and respond in basic Japanese improves communication and enhances the guest experience. You will also learn Japanese manners and culture etiquette, which can be helpful in understanding and respecting local customs. Hotel receptionists who work in areas with a significant Japanese-speaking population may find this course indispensable.
Tour Guide
A Tour Guide helps visitors explore and appreciate a destination, providing information, answering questions, and ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience. This course may particularly useful for tour guides who work with Japanese-speaking tourists or in Japan. By learning basic Japanese phrases and etiquette, a tour guide can improve communication and provide a more authentic and engaging experience for their clients. You will also learn Japanese manners and culture etiquette, which can be helpful in understanding and respecting local customs. This course may help a tour guide who wants to work with Japanese speakers.
Flight Attendant
Flight Attendants ensure the safety and comfort of passengers during air travel, providing assistance, serving refreshments, and responding to emergencies. This course helps flight attendants communicate effectively with Japanese-speaking passengers. Learning basic Japanese phrases and etiquette can improve interactions and create a more welcoming environment. You will also learn Japanese manners and culture etiquette, which can be helpful in understanding and respecting local customs. For flight attendants who regularly serve routes to and from Japan, this course may provide a valuable skillset.
Travel Agent
Travel Agents assist clients with planning and booking trips, offering advice on destinations, transportation, accommodations, and activities. This course helps travel agents better serve clients interested in traveling to Japan. By learning basic Japanese phrases, agents can communicate more effectively with local vendors and provide clients with valuable insights. You will also learn Japanese manners and culture etiquette, which can be helpful in understanding and respecting local customs. Travel agents who work with Japanese clients or those planning trips to Japan may find this course extremely valuable.
Customer Service Representative
Customer Service Representatives provide assistance and support to customers, addressing inquiries, resolving issues, and ensuring satisfaction. This course can be particularly beneficial for customer service representatives who interact with Japanese-speaking customers. The ability to understand and respond in basic Japanese can enhance communication and build rapport. You will also learn Japanese manners and culture etiquette, which can be helpful in understanding and respecting local customs. Customer service representatives who work with Japanese speakers may find this course extremely valuable.
English Teacher
English Teachers instruct students in the English language, often in foreign countries or to non-native speakers. This course can be useful for English teachers who plan to teach in Japan or who work with Japanese students. Learning basic Japanese phrases helps them connect with their students and understand their cultural background. You will also learn Japanese manners and culture etiquette, which can be helpful in understanding and respecting local customs. The ability to communicate in Japanese can also assist with classroom management and parent-teacher communication.
Cultural Exchange Coordinator
Cultural Exchange Coordinators organize and facilitate programs that promote understanding and collaboration between different cultures. A foundation in Japanese, as provided by this course, can be useful for coordinators working with Japanese participants or programs in Japan. Understanding basic phrases, customs, and etiquette can enhance communication and build stronger relationships. You will also learn Japanese manners and culture etiquette, which can be helpful in understanding and respecting local customs. Those involved in Japan-related cultural exchange initiatives may find that this course enhances their effectiveness.
Translator
Translators convert written or spoken content from one language to another, ensuring accuracy and cultural relevance. A course like this helps to build a foundation in practical, travel-related Japanese. While professional translators typically require advanced proficiency, this course provides essential phrases and vocabulary for communicating effectively in everyday situations. You will also learn Japanese manners and culture etiquette, which can be helpful in understanding and respecting local customs. This course may help a translator who wants to translate for Japanese speakers.
International Business Consultant
International Business Consultants advise companies on strategies for expanding into global markets, including Japan. While this role typically requires a deep understanding of business practices and market dynamics, a basic knowledge of the Japanese language and culture can be beneficial. This course provides an introduction to essential phrases and etiquette. You will also learn Japanese manners and culture etiquette, which can be helpful in understanding and respecting local customs. This course may give International Business Consultant a start in understanding Japan.
Social Media Manager
Social Media Managers oversee a company's online presence, creating content, engaging with followers, and analyzing performance. For companies targeting Japanese-speaking audiences or expanding into the Japanese market, this course allows a manager to understand and engage with the culture. While professional proficiency requires more extensive study, these basic phrases and cultural insights can inform content strategy and improve communication. You will also learn Japanese manners and culture etiquette, which can be helpful in understanding and respecting local customs. This course may help a Social Media Manager who wants to work with Japanese speakers.
Freelance Writer
Freelance Writers create written content for various platforms, often specializing in specific niches. This course can open doors for freelance writers interested in travel writing or creating content related to Japan. Learning basic Japanese phrases and cultural insights can add authenticity and depth to their writing. You will also learn Japanese manners and culture etiquette, which can be helpful in understanding and respecting local customs. This course may help a Freelance Writer who wants to create Japan-related content.
Blogger
Bloggers create and publish content on personal or professional websites, often focusing on specific topics of interest. A blogger could use this course to create content about travel to Japan. Learning some Japanese phrases and basic culture, which are covered in this course, may help them to create better content and connect with those who find it. You will also learn Japanese manners and culture etiquette, which can be helpful in understanding and respecting local customs. Japanese may be a useful language for the blogger to learn.

Reading list

We've selected 50 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Travelling Japan/Japanese lesson for travelers course.
Is widely recommended as a comprehensive introduction to phonetics and phonology, making it excellent for gaining a broad understanding. It covers the physical production of speech sounds as well as more abstract concepts like phonemes and syllables. It is suitable for beginners and includes exercises and online materials, making it a valuable resource for both students and teachers.
新完全マスター日本語能力試験 popular textbook for preparing for the JLPT. It comprehensive guide to all aspects of the JLPT.
A comprehensive textbook series that covers all aspects of Katakana, from pronunciation to usage.
Step-by-step guide to learning hiragana and katakana. It is written by a native Japanese speaker and is perfect for beginners who want to learn the Japanese writing system correctly.
Explores the origins and evolution of words, providing insights into their meanings and relationships.
This textbook offers a comprehensive overview of cartographic principles and techniques, covering everything from data acquisition to map design and production. The fourth edition includes recent developments in web mapping and crowdsourcing, making it relevant to contemporary topics in 'Directions'. It is commonly used as a textbook in academic settings.
Comprehensive guide to learning kanji, the Chinese characters used in Japanese. It includes a section on hiragana and katakana, making it a great resource for beginners who want to learn the Japanese writing system.
This comprehensive guide provides a thorough overview of Japanese etiquette, covering everything from bowing and greeting to dining and gift-giving. It is an excellent resource for anyone who wants to learn the basics of Japanese etiquette.
A comprehensive phrasebook for Japanese, offering relevant phrases and vocabulary for travelers. It's excellent for gaining a broad understanding of Japanese in various travel situations and serves as a valuable reference tool for interacting with locals.
Provides essential Spanish phrases for travelers, contributing to a broad understanding of conversational Spanish for travel. It features a dictionary and an audio app to help with pronunciation, serving as a practical reference.
Examines the shift in mapping practices during the 20th century, from traditional maps to electronic navigation systems like GPS. It delves into how this transformation has changed our experience of geographic knowledge and the nature of territory, offering a contemporary perspective on 'Directions'.
Part of a popular travel series, this book offers key French words and phrases for everyday travel situations. It helps in gaining a broad understanding and includes illustrated vocabulary lists and a two-way dictionary. An accompanying audio app aids pronunciation.
Tailored for independent travelers, this book provides practical Spanish words and phrases relevant to real travel situations in Spanish-speaking regions. It serves as a valuable reference tool for those looking to solidify their understanding of conversational Spanish for travel. The color-coding aids navigation.
Offering key Italian words and phrases for travelers, this book supports a broad understanding of Italian in travel contexts. It includes a dictionary and an audio app to assist with pronunciation, making it a useful reference.
This phrasebook provides essential German words and phrases for various travel scenarios. It's a good resource for a broad understanding of German for travel and includes features like illustrated vocabulary and an audio app for pronunciation practice.
Focused on essential German words and phrases for travelers in German-speaking areas, this book practical reference for navigating various travel scenarios. It helps solidify understanding of key vocabulary and expressions.
Comprehensive guide to learning Japanese, including hiragana, katakana, and basic grammar. It uses a unique approach that focuses on immersion and repetition.
This practice book great way to improve your hiragana and katakana skills. It includes practice exercises and drills.
This comprehensive book provides a detailed description of the sounds found in a wide variety of the world's languages. It is an invaluable resource for anyone seeking a broad understanding of phonetic diversity and can deepen the understanding of pronunciation by providing a global perspective.
Provides a technical overview of GPS technology, explaining how it works and its various applications. Given the mention of geolocation in the course titles, this book offers valuable insight into a key modern technology for determining direction and location.
Provides an overview of the mechanisms and evolution of spatial cognition, integrating findings from various disciplines. It explores the biological and cognitive foundations of how we deal with space and construct cognitive maps, offering a deeper theoretical understanding of 'Directions'. Published recently, it covers contemporary research in the field.
Provides a broad and accessible introduction to the concept of wayfinding, exploring the biological, neurological, and anthropological aspects of how humans orient themselves and navigate different environments. It's an excellent starting point for gaining a general understanding of the topic before delving into more technical areas. It is more valuable as additional reading than a direct reference.
This comprehensive phrasebook covers multiple European languages, offering a broad understanding of essential phrases across various regions. It's a valuable resource for travelers visiting multiple countries and provides a good foundation in key travel vocabulary for several languages.
Provides a detailed examination of Japanese society, covering topics such as family, education, and the workplace. Rohlen offers a nuanced and insightful analysis of Japanese culture and society.
This mini, travel-sized phrasebook provides essential Italian phrases and words. It's a convenient reference for quick lookups and gaining a basic understanding of Italian for travel. It also includes helpful travel information and cultural tips.
Uses a spaced repetition system to help learners effectively memorize new words.
This introduction covers both phonetics and phonology, offering a broad understanding of the sound systems of languages. It is accessible for students new to the topic and serves as a good starting point before delving into more specialized areas. It can be a helpful background reading for various pronunciation courses.
Considered an authoritative text on Standard British English pronunciation, this book provides detailed information on the sounds, history, and recent changes in RP. It's a valuable reference for those focusing on a specific accent and offers depth for advanced learners and professionals.
Providing over 1500 common French phrases, this book good resource for gaining a broad understanding of French for daily and travel interactions. It serves as a valuable reference for building conversational skills.
Offers a wide array of common Italian phrases for daily use and travel, aiding in a broad understanding of practical Italian. It's a useful reference for expanding vocabulary and conversational abilities.
With over 1500 common German phrases, this book supports a broad understanding of German for everyday situations and travel. It's a helpful reference for learners aiming to improve their practical communication skills.
Examines Japan's current political and economic challenges. Samuels offers a nuanced and insightful analysis of Japan's future prospects.
This pocket-sized guide is designed for quickly learning essential Spanish phrases for short trips. It's ideal for beginners needing to gain a basic understanding and communicate quickly in key travel scenarios.
This pocket-sized guide is designed for quickly learning essential Japanese phrases for short trips to Japan. It's ideal for beginners needing to gain a basic understanding and communicate quickly in key travel scenarios.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the Japanese language, from its history and grammar to its different dialects. It is an excellent resource for anyone interested in learning more about the Japanese language, regardless of their level of proficiency.
Provides a comprehensive overview of Japanese calligraphy, from its history and techniques to its different styles. It is an excellent resource for anyone interested in learning more about Japanese calligraphy, regardless of their level of proficiency.
Provides a comprehensive overview of Japanese design, from its history and principles to its different styles. It is an excellent resource for anyone interested in learning more about Japanese design, regardless of their level of proficiency.
Focuses on vocabulary essential for academic success, particularly at the university level.
Dives into the physiological processes involved in producing speech sounds, offering a deeper understanding of articulatory phonetics. It is suitable for those who want to go beyond basic pronunciation guides and understand the mechanics of speech. It can be a valuable resource for graduate students and researchers.
Key text for understanding the phonology of intonation. It delves into the theoretical aspects of how intonation patterns are structured in language. It is most suitable for graduate students and researchers specializing in phonology and prosody.
Focuses on the practical aspects of teaching and learning pronunciation. It offers pedagogical approaches and classroom activities, making it particularly relevant for language teachers and those interested in the application of phonetic principles in educational settings.

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