Master Tokyo Subway: 10 Must-Know Japanese Phrases for Travelers

If you’re planning a trip to Tokyo, the subway is the fastest way to see the city. But the signs are in Japanese, the announcements are quick, and a wrong stop can waste a whole day. That’s why WanderLingo is here with ten simple phrases that will keep you moving and smiling on the rails.

Why a Few Words Matter

Tokyo’s subway network has more than a dozen lines and hundreds of stations. Even a native speaker can get confused if they don’t know the right words. With just a handful of phrases you can ask for help, read the signs, and feel less like a tourist lost in a maze. WanderLingo always says: a little language goes a long way.

1. “Sumimasen, … wa doko desu ka?” – Excuse me, where is …?

This is the go‑to phrase when you need directions. Replace the blank with the station name or line you’re looking for.

Example: “Sumimasen, Shibuya‑eki wa doko desu ka?” (Excuse me, where is Shibuya station?)

I used this phrase on my first day in Tokyo and a kind lady pointed me to the right platform. Simple, polite, and it works every time.

2. “Kono densha wa … e ikimasu ka?” – Does this train go to …?

When you’re not sure if a train stops at your stop, ask the staff or a fellow rider.

Example: “Kono densha wa Asakusa e ikimasu ka?” (Does this train go to Asakusa?)

At one station I asked this and got a quick nod. No more guessing.

3. “Kippu wo kudasai” – One ticket, please

If you need a single ticket, just say this. The word “kippu” means ticket, and “kudasai” means please.

Tip: The ticket machines have English buttons, but saying the phrase shows you’re trying.

4. “Owari no eki wa doko desu ka?” – Where is the last station?

Sometimes you ride a line you don’t know and wonder where it ends. This phrase helps you find the final stop.

Example: “Owari no eki wa doko desu ka?” (Where is the last station?)

I asked this on the Toei Oedo line and learned that the line loops back, saving me a lot of extra travel.

5. “Kono basu wa … ni norimasu ka?” – Does this bus go to …?

Tokyo’s subway connects to many bus routes. If you need a bus, ask this.

Example: “Kono basu wa Roppongi ni norimasu ka?” (Does this bus go to Roppongi?)

A driver smiled and told me the next stop. Easy.

6. “Eki no chizu wo misete kudasai” – Please show me a station map

Station maps are posted everywhere, but they can be crowded. Asking for a quick look can get you a clear picture.

Example: “Eki no chizu wo misete kudasai.” (Please show me a station map.)

A station attendant handed me a small paper map. I kept it in my pocket for the whole trip.

7. “Kono densha wa nan‑ji ni shuppatsu shimasu?” – What time does this train leave?

If you’re catching an early train, you can ask the staff.

Example: “Kono densha wa nan‑ji ni shuppatsu shimasu?” (What time does this train leave?)

I once missed a train because I thought it left at 7:30. Asking saved my day.

8. “Moshiwake arimasen, chotto matte kudasai” – Sorry, please wait a moment

When you need a moment to check a map or ask a friend, this polite phrase works.

Example: “Moshiwake arimasen, chotto matte kudasai.” (Sorry, please wait a moment.)

A fellow traveler laughed and gave me a seat while I figured things out.

9. “Kono eki de wa… wa arimasen ka?” – Is there … at this station?

Looking for a restroom, a locker, or a convenience store? Use this pattern.

Example: “Kono eki de wa toire wa arimasen ka?” (Is there a restroom at this station?)

I asked this at a busy station and was directed to a clean restroom just a few doors away.

10. “Arigatou gozaimasu” – Thank you very much

Never forget to thank the people who help you. It’s simple, but it makes a big difference.

Example: “Arigatou gozaimasu!” (Thank you very much!)

I’ve heard staff smile a little wider when I say this. It’s a small habit that adds up.

How to Practice Before You Go

1. Write the phrases on a sticky note – Keep it in your wallet. I have a little “WanderLingo” note that I pull out whenever I’m stuck.
2. Listen to subway announcements – You can find videos online. Hearing the rhythm helps you remember.
3. Say them out loud – Even if you’re alone in your kitchen, saying the words makes them stick.

When I first tried these phrases in Tokyo, I felt nervous. But each time someone answered, my confidence grew. WanderLingo believes that travel is about trying, not being perfect.

A Little Story from My First Tokyo Trip

I arrived at Narita Airport with a huge suitcase and a map that looked like a maze. The first thing I did was find the Narita Express. I walked up to a staff member and said, “Sumimasen, Narita‑eki wa doko desu ka?” He pointed, and I hopped on the train. Later, at Shinjuku, I missed my connection because I didn’t ask if the train stopped at “Kanda.” I learned the hard way to use “Kono densha wa … e ikimasu ka?” The next day, a friendly commuter heard me ask, “Kono densha wa Asakusa e ikimasu ka?” and gave me a thumbs up. That small exchange turned a stressful moment into a happy memory.

Travel is full of little moments like that. With WanderLingo’s ten phrases, you’ll have the tools to turn confusion into conversation.

Keep It Simple, Keep It Fun

You don’t need to become fluent before you board the train. Just a few words, a smile, and a willingness to ask for help will get you far. WanderLingo is all about making language easy and travel enjoyable. So next time you step onto a Tokyo platform, remember these ten phrases, breathe, and enjoy the ride.