Getting lost while traveling can be stressful, but knowing a few polite phrases can make things much easier. In this article, we’ll introduce useful Japanese expressions for asking directions, so you can find your way more confidently in Japan.
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This article is based on a video by Fun Fun Nihongo, our Japanese learning content series.
Getting Someone’s Attention
すみません、ちょっとお聞きしてもいいですか？
- Sumimasen, chotto o-kikishite mo ii desu ka?
Excuse me, may I ask you something?
A polite way to approach someone before asking for help. “すみません” is commonly used to get someone’s attention politely.
Asking for Directions
道を教えていただけますか？
- Michi o oshiete itadakemasu ka?
Could you help me with directions?
A very polite way to ask someone for directions. It sounds more formal and respectful than simply saying “道を教えてください。” (Michi o oshiete kudasai.)
渋谷スクランブル交差点はどこですか？
- Shibuya sukuranburu kōsaten wa doko desu ka?
Where is the Shibuya Scramble Crossing?
Use this pattern when asking where a specific place is. You can replace the place name with wherever you want to go.
ここから近いですか？
- Koko kara chikai desu ka?
Is it close to here?
Useful when you want to know whether you can walk there easily or if you may need transportation.
歩いてどれくらいかかりますか？
- Aruite dorekurai kakarimasu ka?
How long does it take on foot?
Helpful for checking walking time. If you want to ask about travel time more generally, you can also say “どれくらいかかりますか？”（Dore kurai kakarimasu ka?）
Checking If You’re Going the Right Way
この道で合ってますか？
- Kono michi de attemasu ka?
Am I on the right road?
A useful phrase when you have already started walking and want to make sure you are heading the right way.
右ですか、左ですか？
- Migi desu ka, hidari desu ka?
Right or left?
A short and practical question when you just need a quick directional answer.
何か目印はありますか？
- Nanika mejirushi wa arimasu ka?
Is there a landmark I can look for?
Very helpful if directions sound complicated. A landmark is often easier to follow than street names.
Asking for More Help
この地図で教えてもらえますか？
- Kono chizu de oshiete moraemasu ka?
Could you show me on this map?
Useful when spoken directions are hard to follow. You can say this while showing your phone or a paper map.
この読み方を教えてください。
- Kono yomikata o oshiete kudasai.
Could you tell me how to read this?
Helpful when you see a place name in kanji and are not sure how to pronounce it.
もう一度ゆっくり言ってもらえますか？
- Mō ichido yukkuri itte moraemasu ka?
Could you say that again slowly?
A very useful phrase if someone speaks too quickly. It helps you keep the conversation polite while asking for clarification.
書いてもらえますか？
- Kaite moraemasu ka?
Could you write it down?
Useful if you want the person to write the place name, the route or a landmark for you.
After Getting Help
助かりました。ありがとうございます。
- Tasukarimashita. Arigatō gozaimasu.
You’ve been a big help. Thank you.
A warm and polite way to thank someone after they help you.
Quick Tip
Even if you get lost, you don’t need perfect Japanese. Starting with “すみません” and asking politely is often enough to get help.
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Performers, Fun Fun Nihongo
Hinaka and Kotone feature in the Fun Fun Nihongo video series, where they share natural Japanese expressions and cultural insights with learners of Japanese.
Instagram: @hinaka_kudo / @kotonefromjapan
