Joanna James
The lovely nation of Japan will undoubtedly offer many interesting experiences for visitors. Here, you will have the opportunity to enjoy experiences like getting to know Osaka’s history and culture, admiring the fashion at Harajuku, sampling Shibuya’s exciting music scene and so on. However, many travellers to Japan will worry about the fact that they do not know Japanese; provided below are some tips for getting by on your visit if you only know English.
You will find that many Japanese people have some knowledge of English, with some speaking the language fluently. This would be particularly true of people in the more touristy localities like Tokyo, Harajuku and Osaka. If you need help, you should speak to locals and inquire whether they can speak English. If you happen to be a little hesitant to approach strangers, you could speak to a police officer, shop attendant, security guard or a hotel staff member.
Visitors will find that in the main cities and well-known tourist-oriented localities, many of the signs and announcements will be provided in both Japanese and English. Additionally, many restaurants in these areas will offer an English translation of their menus.
You could also use modern technology to communicate with locals in Japan. A great option would be using the Aibecy multi-language translator. All that you need to do would be to press a button and say a phrase in English; the translator will articulate that statement in Japanese. Then it will translate the Japanese response for you in English.
Another great tool to use during your visit to Japan would be Google Translate which you could use with your mobile phone. This app would assist you to converse with locals, translate signs, read menus and so on. With this app, you could even obtain translations of signs and menus using your camera.
As you go about in an unfamiliar country, the internet can often be invaluable. Using the internet, you could translate words and phrases, locate landmarks and attractions and plan out your activities. Therefore, you should make sure that you will have access to the internet when you need it. In addition to using the Wi-Fi at places like stations and airports, you could avail yourself of a travel card which will provide you with free of charge Wi-Fi. It also helps to be able to stay connected where you stay. For example, when seeking the top luxury hotels in Tokyo, choose accommodation that will provide you with free of charge wired and wireless internet access too; in this regard, consider options like Cerulean Tower Tokyu Hotel.
If you desire a backup for your mobile Wi-Fi or plan on travelling to out of the way destinations in Japan, you could also purchase a good phrasebook for your travels. One of these books would provide you with the confidence that you could communicate with the locals even if the more modern technologies fail.
You could also make the effort to learn a few essential Japanese words and phrases before you visit this country. The locals are likely to appreciate the fact that you could use a few simple Japanese expressions.
Joining guided tours conducted by guides who can speak English would be a great way to gain an understanding of a place’s history and learn some interesting facts. On one of these tours, you will also have the chance to make new like-minded friends.
Travellers to Japan will also be able to visit tourist information centres where they could gain information regarding the best attractions and enjoyable things to do. At one of these centres, you can learn about engrossing sights and activities that you were unaware of. You will also find staff who can speak English and English pamphlets there.
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