Introduction
When you’re traveling in Japan, getting around can feel intimidating if you don’t speak much Japanese. Whether you’re hopping on a train, catching a bus, or flagging down a taxi, being able to express where you want to go is crucial.
The good news? You don’t need to master complex sentences! Even a few simple phrases can help you navigate Japan smoothly and politely.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to say “I want to go here” and other essential travel phrases in Japanese, customized for different transportation modes. Let’s get you moving confidently around Japan!
How to Say “I Want to Go Here” in Japanese
1. ここに行きたいです (Koko ni ikitai desu) – “I want to go here.”
This is the simplest and most useful phrase for travelers.
Breakdown:
- Koko = here
- Ni = to (particle indicating direction)
- Ikitai = want to go
- Desu = polite sentence ending
Full phrase:
- “Koko ni ikitai desu.”
When to use:
- Showing a location on your phone or a map to a driver or staff
- Pointing to a place name written in Japanese
Example:
- [Pointing to a location] “Koko ni ikitai desu.”
Tip: Save a picture of your destination or address in Japanese ahead of time!
2. ここまでお願いします (Koko made onegai shimasu) – “Please take me here.”
Another polite way to tell a taxi driver or guide where you want to go.
Breakdown:
- Made = up to (endpoint)
- Onegai shimasu = please (polite request)
Example:
- [Pointing to a map] “Koko made onegai shimasu.”
Tip: This sounds very natural in taxis!
Travel Phrases for Trains
1. この電車は、[目的地]へ行きますか？ (Kono densha wa [destination] e ikimasu ka?) – “Does this train go to [destination]?”
Example:
- “Kono densha wa Kyoto e ikimasu ka?” (Does this train go to Kyoto?)
2. 何番線に乗ればいいですか？ (Nanbansen ni noreba ii desu ka?) – “Which platform should I take?”
Breakdown:
- Nanban-sen = which numbered platform
- Noru = to ride
Example:
- “Osaka e ikitai desu. Nanbansen ni noreba ii desu ka?” (I want to go to Osaka. Which platform?)
3. 何番線ですか？ (Nanban-sen desu ka?) – “Which platform is it?”
Even shorter and easier!
4. [Station Name]まで行きたいです ([Station Name] made ikitai desu) – “I want to go to [Station Name].”
Example:
- “Tokyo eki made ikitai desu.” (I want to go to Tokyo Station.)
Travel Phrases for Buses
1. このバスは[目的地]へ行きますか？ (Kono basu wa [destination] e ikimasu ka?) – “Does this bus go to [destination]?”
Example:
- “Kono basu wa Nara e ikimasu ka?” (Does this bus go to Nara?)
2. 次のバス停はどこですか？ (Tsugi no basutei wa doko desu ka?) – “Where is the next bus stop?”
Tip: Useful if you’re not sure where to get off.
3. [Place Name]で降ります ([Place Name] de orimasu) – “I will get off at [Place Name].”
Example:
- “Shibuya de orimasu.” (I will get off at Shibuya.)
Travel Phrases for Taxis
1. [Place Name]までお願いします ([Place Name] made onegai shimasu) – “Please take me to [Place Name].”
Example:
- “Asakusa made onegai shimasu.” (Please take me to Asakusa.)
2. ここに行きたいです (Koko ni ikitai desu) – “I want to go here.”
Show the driver the address or map.
3. いくらぐらいかかりますか？ (Ikura gurai kakarimasu ka?) – “How much will it cost?”
Useful for budgeting before getting in.
4. 高速道路を使ってください (Kousoku douro o tsukatte kudasai) – “Please use the highway.”
Tip: Use if you are in a hurry!
Useful Travel Words
- 駅 (Eki) — Station
- バス (Basu) — Bus
- タクシー (Takushii) — Taxi
- 出口 (Deguchi) — Exit
- 地図 (Chizu) — Map
- チケット (Chiketto) — Ticket
Conclusion
Learning a few essential phrases like “Koko ni ikitai desu” and “Koko made onegai shimasu” can make your travels in Japan much smoother and more enjoyable. Japanese people appreciate the effort, even if you speak only a little.
Use simple sentences, smile, and don’t hesitate to show your map or phone if needed. With these phrases, you’ll move confidently by train, bus, or taxi and experience Japan like a true explorer!
