Japanese Phrases for the Train Station

Ask for directions and buy tickets — even when you're completely lost.

Japan's train system is incredible — and incredibly confusing when you're in the wrong station or on the wrong platform. Station staff are helpful but often speak limited English, and signs can be overwhelming when you're in a rush. Knowing how to ask the right questions in Japanese saves you from missing connections or ending up on the wrong line. These phrases cover directions, tickets, and common problems.

Asking Directions

  • すみません、新宿駅はどう行けばいいですか？

    Sumimasen, Shinjuku eki wa dou ikeba ii desu ka?

    Excuse me, how do I get to Shinjuku Station?

  • この電車は渋谷に止まりますか？

    Kono densha wa Shibuya ni tomarimasu ka?

    Does this train stop at Shibuya?

  • 乗り換えはどこですか？

    Norikae wa doko desu ka?

    Where do I transfer?

  • 何番線ですか？

    Nanban sen desu ka?

    Which platform is it?

  • 出口はどこですか？

    Deguchi wa doko desu ka?

    Where is the exit?

Buying Tickets

  • 東京駅までの切符をください。

    Toukyou eki made no kippu wo kudasai.

    A ticket to Tokyo Station, please.

  • ICカードにチャージしたいです。

    IC kaado ni chaaji shitai desu.

    I'd like to charge my IC card.

  • 片道ですか、往復ですか？

    Katamichi desu ka, oufuku desu ka?

    One way, or round trip?

  • 指定席を予約したいのですが。

    Shiteiseki wo yoyaku shitai no desu ga.

    I'd like to reserve a seat.

  • 精算機はどこにありますか？

    Seisanki wa doko ni arimasu ka?

    Where is the fare adjustment machine?

Problems & Delays

  • 電車が遅れているみたいですが、どのくらいですか？

    Densha ga okurete iru mitai desu ga, dono kurai desu ka?

    The train seems delayed — how long?

  • 終電は何時ですか？

    Shuuden wa nanji desu ka?

    What time is the last train?

  • 逆方向に乗ってしまったのですが。

    Gyaku houkou ni notte shimatta no desu ga.

    I got on the train going the wrong way.

  • 遅延証明書をもらえますか？

    Chien shoumeisho wo moraemasu ka?

    Can I get a delay certificate?

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Japanese Phrases for Taxi Rides

Japanese Phrases for Shopping

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