Can you get by with English in Japan?

When traveling in Japan, especially if you're in one of the big cities such as Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto, you'll generally have no problem not speaking Japanese at all. There are usually English signs all over train stations and airports.



In 2026, you can certainly "get by" with English in Japan, especially in major metropolitan hubs like Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto. Most transportation signage, including subways and Shinkansen trains, is bilingual (Japanese and English), and major tourist attractions, high-end hotels, and popular restaurants provide English menus and staff. However, Japan remains a country where English proficiency is generally low among the broader population. In rural areas or "mom-and-pop" establishments, English may be non-existent, making translation apps like Google Translate or DeepL indispensable tools for travelers. While the rise of real-time AI translation devices has eased the burden, learning basic Japanese phrases like "Sumimasen" (Excuse me) and "Arigato" (Thank you) is still highly encouraged. For a seamless experience, sticking to the "Golden Route" cities is safe, but for deep cultural exploration, you should be prepared for significant language barriers that require patience and visual aids.

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English is in common use in Japan with Chinese and Korean also becoming more common meaning that you can certainly get around without using Japanese. This is most true in the big cities and in areas frequented by foreign visitors. But as you move outside of the cities, foreign languages will quickly dry-up.

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If you speak English and don't mind living in Japan's English-speaking, gaijin-friendly bubble, having little or no Japanese can be manageable most of the time. You'll still be able to meet new people, experience unique moments, and navigate much of Japan just fine.

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Most Japanese taxi drivers do not speak English, so you should try and show the driver a name card showing your destination in Japanese characters, or point out the place you wish to go on a map. Japanese cabs also now often have SAT NAV which will aid finding your destination if you know the telephone number of the ...

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Tipping in Japan is not expected, and attempts to leave a tip will almost certainly be turned down (a potentially awkward moment). In Japan, it's thought that by dining out or drinking at a bar, you are already paying the establishment for good service.

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In short, yes, you can use Uber in Tokyo, but mostly to hail a taxi. But, more often than not, stopping a random taxi on the street might be faster (and cheaper) than requesting a taxi via the ubiquitous app. Uber is relatively new to Japan, and as a result, its network isn't the largest.

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If you use a short-term visa to get into Japan, most likely, you can stay for up to 90 days. There are many long-term visa options where holders would be able to enter Japan and stay in Japan anywhere from three months to five years. Longer stays are usually for worker visas.

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You don't NEED Japanese, but it's polite to know a few basic words and phrases. Getting around the major cities with just English is perfectly doable, everything is well signed in English at tourist destinations and in stations. Learn to say thank you (Arigato gozimasu) as you will say it 50 times a day.

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