How do you ask for the bill in Japan?

If you want to say you'd like the bill in Japanese, the safe bets/correct phrases are these two: ?????????? okaikei onegai shimasu.



In Japan, the most polite and standard way to ask for the bill is to catch the server's eye and say, "O-kaikei, onegaishimasu" (お会計、お願いします). This translates literally to "The account/bill, please." In very casual settings or Izakayas, you might hear regulars say "O-kanjo, onegaishimasu," but "O-kaikei" is the safest and most respectful version for travelers in 2026. If the restaurant is loud and you cannot catch the server's attention vocally, you can make an "X" sign with your two index fingers; this is a universally understood non-verbal signal in Japan for "check, please" or "I'm finished." Note that in many Japanese restaurants, you don't pay at the table; instead, the server will bring a small slip or clipboard to your table, which you then take to the register near the entrance to pay as you leave. Tipping is not required or expected, and in many places, it is actually considered confusing or rude to leave extra cash.

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