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Numbers in Japanese can be confusing as it has a different counting system from English, but once you understand the patterns, it becomes surprisingly intuitive. Counting from 1 to 10 is the first step, but what about counting up to a million? Or even a hundred million?

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about the Japanese number system, including both the Sino-Japanese readings (onyomi) and native Japanese readings (kunyomi), and how to count from basic digits all the way to massive numbers like 1,000,000,000.

Want to improve your pronunciation as you learn to count? Check out our guide to Japanese pronunciation. Don’t forget to watch our YouTube video about it, too!

Basics of Counting Japanese Numbers

Japanese numbers come in two main readings: native Japanese numbers called wago and Chinese-based numbers called kango. While they use the same kanji characters, their pronunciation and usage change based on what you are counting.

Kango, the system featuring ichi, ni, san, is the mathematical and technical standard used for things like phone numbers, years, and formal measurements. It is almost always paired with a specific “counter” word that describes the category of the object, such as -mai for flat things or -nin for people. This makes the Kango system highly precise but also linguistically complex because you must know the correct counter for every noun you encounter. For example:

にん (nin) is used for people
まい (mai) is used for flat things like paper
ほん (hon) is used for long, thin things like pencils or bottles

So if you want to say “three people,” you say さんにん (sannin), and for “three pencils,” it’s さんぼん (sanbon). Notice how the pronunciation changes a little to sound smoother. Learning counters is important because you can’t just say numbers alone when counting things in Japanese. But don’t worry. Once you get used to it, it becomes easy! Dive into our complete guide on Japanese counters to learn more about that.

In contrast, wago acts as a “universal counter” that is incredibly helpful for language learners. The system consists of the familiar hitotsu, futatsu, mittsu sequence, and is generally used only for the numbers one through ten. Because Wago numbers already have a counting suffix built into them (the “tsu” at the end), they can stand alone without a specialized counter word.

Don’t forget that it is always better to learn Japanese with a native Japanese tutor! Want to learn all the essential Japanese numbers and start speaking with confidence? Join our part-time or intensive Japanese lessons at Coto Academy — Tokyo’s leading language school. Get in touch for a free level check and course consultation today!

Even though Arabic numerals still use commas every three digits when written, the way Japanese people mentally group numbers is by four digits. This difference can be confusing and takes some getting used to for language learners!

Japanese numbers also come with two main reading systems:

Counting 1 – 10 in Japanese

Here’s a table that shows Japanese numbers 1 to 10 in both 和語 (wago) — native Japanese numbers — and 漢語 (kango) — Sino-Japanese (Chinese-derived) numbers:

Number	Wago (Native Japanese)	Kango (Sino-Japanese)
1	ひとつ (hitotsu)	いち (ichi)
2	ふたつ (futatsu)	に (ni)
3	みっつ (mittsu)	さん (san)
4	よっつ (yottsu)	し (shi) / よん (yon)
5	いつつ (itsutsu)	ご (go)
6	むっつ (muttsu)	ろく (roku)
7	ななつ (nanatsu)	しち (shichi) / なな (nana)
8	やっつ (yattsu)	はち (hachi)
9	ここのつ (kokonotsu)	きゅう (kyuu) / く (ku)
10	とお (too)	じゅう (juu)

Kunyomi: Native Japanese Numbers (1–10)

Wago numbers are mainly used for counting general items (especially up to 10), the ages of small children, and traditional Japanese contexts. If you are at a restaurant or shop and want to order a specific number of items (especially those that don’t have a distinct counter like “bottles” or “sheets”), you use wago up to 10.

When telling someone’s age, you can use the counter -sai (kango), but it is very common to use wago for young children or in casual conversation.

The final function of wago is its use in the Japanese calendar. The first 10 days of the month (and the 20th) use the native wago pronunciation rather than the kango and nichi pattern. For example, instead of saying ninichi to denote the first day of the month, you pronounce it as futsuka (二日), from the word futatsu.

Example:

お菓子をひとつください。
Okashi o hitotsu kudasai.
Please give me one snack.

Kunyomi numbers are rarely used beyond 10. For everything else, we use the more common Sino-Japanese system.

Onyomi: Sino-Japanese Numbers (1–10)

Kango numbers are used in most modern and formal contexts, like times, phone numbers, prices, and mathematics.

Example:

紙を一枚ください。
Kami o ichimai kudasai.
Please give me one sheet of paper.

Irregular Japanese Number Readings

In Japanese, while most numbers follow regular patterns, the numbers 4, 7, and 9 are famous for having multiple readings that change depending on the counter and context. This happens because these numbers have both a native Japanese reading (wago) and a Chinese-derived reading (kango), and sometimes one is avoided due to cultural superstitions.

For example, the number 4 can be read as し (shi) or よん (yon), but よん is preferred because し sounds like the word for death (死), which is considered unlucky. Similarly, 7 is read as しち (shichi) or なな (nana), with なな commonly used in daily speech to avoid confusion with the number 1 (いち).

Number	Irregular / Preferred Reading
4	よん (yon)
7	なな (nana)
9	きゅう (kyuu)
1 & 2 (people)	ひとり (hitori), ふたり (futari)

The “correct” reading depends entirely on the counter that follows. For example, when telling the time in Japanese, 4:00 is always yo-ji (a shortened version of yon), while 7:00 is usually shichi-ji, and 9:00 is ku-ji. Because these rules are so specific, most learners memorize these particular numbers as part of a set with their counters rather than trying to apply a single rule.

There are also pronunciation changes when numbers combine with counters to make speech smoother, like the ones below!

Number	Japanese (Kanji)	Reading (Hiragana)	Reading (Romaji)
300	三百	さんびゃく	sanbyaku
600	六百	ろっぴゃく	roppyaku
800	八百	はっぴゃく	happyaku
3000	三千	さんぜん	sanzen
8000	八千	はっせん	hassen

Examples:

12: (じゅうに) juu-ni
157: (ひゃくごじゅうなな) hyaku go-juu nana
1861: (せんはっぴゃくろくじゅういち) sen happyaku roku-juu ichi

Counting Double-Digit Numbers in Japanese: 10 – 100

Counting double-digit numbers in Japanese is simple once you understand the pattern. To form these numbers, you start with the number for the tens place, followed by じゅう (juu), which means “ten.”

For example, 20 is にじゅう (ni-juu), meaning “two tens,” and 30 is さんじゅう (san-juu), meaning “three tens.” If the number has a digit in the ones place, you simply add it after the tens. So, 21 becomes にじゅういち (ni-juu-ichi), and 47 becomes よんじゅうなな (yon-juu-nana). If there’s no number in the ones place — like in 10, 20, or 30 — you just say the tens part: じゅう (juu), にじゅう (ni-juu), さんじゅう (san-juu), and so on. This system continues consistently, making it easy to build up to higher numbers once you know the basic 1–10.

Number	Japanese Reading	Breakdown
11	じゅういち (juu ichi)	10 + 1
27	にじゅうなな (ni juu nana)	20 + 7
38	さんじゅうはち (san juu hachi)	30 + 8
49	よんじゅうきゅう (yon juu kyuu)	40 + 9
50	ごじゅう (go juu)	5 × 10

You’ll notice that after the number 10, Japanese typically uses the preferred pronunciations for 4, 7, and 9 — that is, yon, nana, and kyuu — instead of shi, shichi, or ku. This is especially true for double-digit numbers. For example, 40 is read as yon juu, not shi juu, to avoid the negative connotations associated with shi (death) and ku (suffering). Once you have a solid grasp of numbers 1 to 10 and understand which readings are preferred, it becomes much easier to count larger numbers and form double-digit combinations naturally.

Check out the table below for the numbers 10 – 90.

Number	Kanji	Hiragana	Romaji
10	十	じゅう	juu
20	二十	にじゅう	nijuu
30	三十	さんじゅう	sanjuu
40	四十	よんじゅう	yonjuu
50	五十	ごじゅう	gojuu
60	六十	ろくじゅう	rokujuu
70	七十	ななじゅう	nanajuu
80	八十	はちじゅう	hachijuu
90	九十	きゅうじゅう	kyuujuu

Counting in Japanese from 100 to 900

Counting in Japanese from 100 to 900 is straightforward. To count by hundreds, you take the number (1–9) and add ひゃく (hyaku), which means “hundred.”

Note that in Japanese, the numbers 300, 600, and 800 do not follow the regular pattern of simply adding hyaku (ひゃく). Instead, they undergo sound shifts to make pronunciation smoother. For 300, san-hyaku changes to sanbyaku (さんびゃく), where the “h” sound becomes a “b” sound. For 600, roku-hyaku becomes roppyaku (ろっぴゃく), with a doubled consonant sound (small っ) and the “h” shifting to a “p” sound. Similarly, 800 changes from hachi-hyaku to happyaku (はっぴゃく), also using a doubled consonant and a “p” sound.

Number	Japanese Reading	Notes
100	ひゃく (hyaku)	Base form
200	にひゃく (ni-hyaku)	Regular pronunciation
300	さんびゃく (san-byaku)	Sound change for easier pronunciation
400	よんひゃく (yon-hyaku)	Uses “yon” instead of “shi”
500	ごひゃく (go-hyaku)	Regular pronunciation
600	ろっぴゃく (roppyaku)	Small つ (っ) added, sound shift
700	ななひゃく (nana-hyaku)	Uses “nana” instead of “shichi”
800	はっぴゃく (happyaku)	Small つ (っ) added, sound shift
900	きゅうひゃく (kyuu-hyaku)	Regular pronunciation

Reading Larger Numbers in Japanese: 10,000 to 1,000,000,000

The Japanese counting system is still based on a base-10 structure, just like English, but the units are grouped differently, especially beyond 10,000.

Unlike English, which groups numbers by thousands (thousand, million, billion), Japanese groups by myriad units. In English, we count large numbers by thousands: 1,000 is one thousand, 1,000,000 is one million, and 1,000,000,000 is one billion. But in Japanese, the system is different. The key unit is 10,000, not 1,000. This unit is called 万 (まん or man). Ten thousand “man” makes the next unit: 億 (おく or oku), which is 100 million.

There are no in-between units like in English, so it jumps from man (10,000) to oku (100 million). This means numbers like 100,000 or 1,000,000 don’t have their own unique names; they are just “multiples of ten thousand.”

For example, to say 100,000, a Japanese speaker thinks of it as “ten blocks of ten thousand,” which becomes 十万 (juuman). When you move up to 1,000,000, the logic follows the same stacking principle: it is “one hundred blocks of ten thousand,” or 百万 (hyakuman).

The main units are:

Japanese Unit	Kanji	Value
まん (man)	万	10,000
おく (oku)	億	100 million
ちょう (chou)	兆	1 trillion
けい (kei)	京	10 quadrillion

This stacking continues all the way up to 10,000,000, which is “one thousand blocks of ten thousand,” known as 千万 (sen-man). It is only when you reach 100,000,000, or “ten thousand blocks of ten thousand,” that the man unit is finally “full,” and the language introduces a brand-new word: 億 (oku).

Number	Japanese (Kanji)	Reading (Romaji)
10,000	一万	ichi-man
100,000	十万	juu-man
1,000,000	百万	hyaku-man
10,000,000	千万	issen-man
100,000,000	一億	ichi-oku
1,000,000,000	十億	juu-oku
1,000,000,000,000	一兆	icchou

Example:

320,000 = san-juu ni man (さんじゅうにまん)
18,257 = ichi-man hassen ni-hyaku go-juu nana (いちまんはっせんにひゃくごじゅうなな)

How to Say Zero in Japanese

In Japanese, zero is commonly said as ゼロ (zero), borrowed from English, or れい (rei), which is the native Japanese word often used in counting and formal contexts. Both are correct, but ゼロ is more common in everyday speech and measurements. Maru should only be used when you are referring to zero as a number for phone numbers or codes, although the same word is also used to denote that something is correct.

ゼロ (zero): Common, borrowed from English
まる (maru): Used in phone numbers or codes
零 (rei): Formal but rarely used in speech

Example:

郵便番号は102-0072です。
Yuubin bango wa ichi maru ni no maru maru nana ni desu.
My postcode is 102-0072.

Do Japanese Use Arabic Numerals?

Nowadays, you might notice that Japanese people use Arabic numerals (1, 2, 3) in almost every aspect of daily life, including prices, phone numbers, and writing the time.

This is because Arabic numerals are the standard for horizontal writing, such as on digital screens, in newspapers, and on price tags at most retail stores.

But in traditional establishments, like high-end restaurants and izakaya, kanji numbers are often used to maintain an aesthetic of elegance and heritage. You might also notice that they also write the text vertically, instead of horizontally, and read from right to left, instead of left to right.

However, you will still see Japanese kanji used for numbers in specific traditional or formal contexts. You will also see kanji numbers used on legal documents, certificates, and paper currency to prevent fraud, as it is much harder to alter a complex kanji character than it is to change a “1” into a “7” with a single stroke of a pen. Additionally, certain fixed expressions and compound words are always written in kanji, even in modern text.

Understanding numbers is just one part of mastering Japanese. To count things properly, you’ll also need to learn counters — like 本 (for long objects), 個 (for small items), and 枚 (for flat objects).

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FAQ

How do you count from 1 to 10 in Japanese?

You can use either Sino-Japanese (ichi, ni, san…) or native Japanese (hitotsu, futatsu…). The Sino-Japanese system is more common and used with counters.

What does 'man' mean in Japanese numbers?

Man (万) means 10,000. Unlike English, Japanese numbers are grouped by ten-thousands instead of thousands. For example, 20,000 is ni-man (二万).

Why are there two readings for Japanese numbers?

Japanese has Sino-Japanese (onyomi) readings from Chinese and native Japanese (kunyomi) readings. The context (counting objects, reading dates, math) determines which to use.

How do you say 100,000 in Japanese?

100,000 is said as juu-man (十万), which means “ten ten-thousands” — because Japanese groups numbers by 10,000 units.

Do Japanese people use kanji for numbers?

In daily life, Arabic numerals (1, 2, 3) are common. Kanji (一, 二, 三) are used in formal documents, banking, and legal writing.

Whether you are coming to Japan to look for work or just want to apply to Japanese companies, a good cover letter will help you stand out! Just like in any other country, a cover letter is a chance for you to make an impression on your potential employers and personally explain your experience and motivations. This is your chance to show who you are beyond the hard figures on your resume.

A cover letter is a stepping stone for your employers to get to know you a bit more personally. With that said, how do you write a good cover letter, that too, in Japanese?

What Are Japanese Cover Letters

Cover letters, or カバーレター (cover letter) in Japanese, are a relatively new concept in Japan and were not typically part of a Japanese hiring process. However, they are being more adopted, especially with the increase in Japanese job boards. A cover letter is meant to provide context for your resume, personally introduce yourself, and ultimately persuade your potential employer that you are worth the time to interview. However, there are some key differences in structure, where Western cover letters are considered somewhat flexible, in Japan, you should stick to the following structure and content:

1. Name and Personal Details
2. Company Name and Details
3. Introduction
4. Qualifications & Reasons for wanting to join
5. Closing Statement & Request for Response
6. Sign-off

What a Cover Letter is Not

Your cover letter should not be a detailed autobiography describing your life from birth. You don’t need to share your whole life story, just parts that are relevant. For example, if you’re applying for an engineering job, you can say something like “ever since I was a kid, I was fascinated with how machines worked…” and then discuss how this led you to pursue your current academic or work qualifications. Remember to keep it relatively concise, ideally under 1 page.

Also, cover letters are not meant to be generic papers that are mass-mailed to a bunch of companies. They are meant to be personalized, showcasing your unique interest in the company you’re applying for.

Do You Need a Cover Letter in Japan?

Traditionally, Japanese companies only required a Japanese resume, or rirekisho, and submitting a cover letter was uncommon. However, nowadays, many English-based jobs in Japan recommend or require a cover letter, especially when submitting an English resume.

Still, although a cover letter may be listed as “optional,” it is highly recommended. It helps you stand out, demonstrates professionalism, and clearly explains your suitability for the position. In the early stages of the application process, the cover letter may not always be carefully reviewed. However, in the later stages, especially before final interviews, it is increasingly read by hiring staff and potential supervisors.

A cover letter in English should be formal, concise, and well-structured. It should summarize your career so far and highlight your skills and relevant experience that may not be fully reflected in your resume.

Breakdown of Japanese Cover Letters

As briefly discussed, there are 6 main sections of a typical Japanese cover letter: personal details, company details, introduction, body, closing, and sign off. So, let’s break down in detail how you should write each part, piece by piece.

1. Name & Personal Details

Typically, at the very top of the resume is your name, followed by your address, phone number, and email address. You can align it to the right to make the section feel more separated from the rest of the cover letter. It’s not uncommon to have the date after your name and personal details.

2. Company Name & Details

Generally, you also provide the details of the company, including the name of the hiring manager, the company name, and the address. Some people decide to align the section to the right instead of the first section. This just helps to make each section feel more readable.

3. Introduction

Finally, for the actual cover letter, an introduction is normally written in Japanese as 採用ご担当様 (saiyou go tantou sama), which means Dear Hiring Manager. But it’s somewhat standard to use this common phrase at the start of a formal letter:
Example 1:
拝啓　貴社ますますご清栄のこととお慶び申し上げます。
Haikei kisha masumasu goseiei no koto to oyorokobimoushiagema su.
Dear Sir/Madam, I am happy to hear your company is doing well.

After the greeting, you introduce yourself by providing your name, the name of the position you are applying to, and expressing your interest. Here are some common phrases you can use when expressing interest in the company:

Example 2:
ぜひ一度、お話を伺える機会をいただければ幸いです。
Zehi ichido, ohanashi o ukagaeru kikai o itadakereba saiwai desu.
I’d really appreciate being given the chance to speak to you further about this.

Example 3:
・・・新聞で貴社の募集広告を拝見し、応募いたしました。
…shinbunde kisha no boshuu houkoku o haiken shi, obou itashimashita.
I wish to apply for the job post you advertised on…

Then, at the end of your introduction, give concrete reasons why you are interested in this job. Include useful phrases such as:

Example 4:
私は特にこの仕事に興味があります。なぜなら・・・
Watashi wa toku ni kono shigoto ni kyoumi ga arimasu. nazenara…
I am particularly interested in this job, the reason why is…

Example 5:
・・・として御社に勤務したいと考えております。
…toshite onsha ni kinmu shitai to kangaete orimasu.
I would like to work for you, in order to…

**Explaining Why You’re Leaving Your Company

If you’re currently working, you don’t necessarily need to give a reason for leaving your current company, especially since it’s better to focus on why you want to join the hiring company. But, if you feel the need, you can briefly describe the circumstances for why you are applying for the company and planning to leave your current employment. Try to emphasize pull factors (characteristics about the company that are motivating you to apply) without using any negative language about your current company (it’s actually a bad look). We highly recommend framing your plans to leave as a positive next step, rather than something negative, like you disliking something about your current company, or because your contract is ending.

Your reason should sound like you have learned something from your previous job. Here are some phrases that help you emphasize that:

Example 1:
現在の・・・の経験を活かし、さらに規模の大きいプロジェクトを担当したいと考えたためです。
Genzai no… no keiken o ikashi, sara ni kibo no okii purojekuto o tantou shitai to kanaeta tamedesu.
I would like to make the most of my experience in…, and take charge of larger-scale projects.”

Or an opening sentence describing what you currently do:

Example 2:
“現在私は・・・で・・・の担当として勤務しております。
Genzai watashi wa …de …no tantoutoshite kinmu shite orimasu.
Currently, I am working for… and my responsibilities include…

4. Qualifications & Reason for Wanting to Join

This is the meat of your cover letter, where you describe your background, why you think you are a fit, and why you would like to join the company. For writing this part, you should thoroughly read the job description and research the company so you can tailor your related work experience and skill sets to the qualifications of the job and the culture of the company.

Here are some common Japanese phrases you can use to highlight your skills:

Example 1:
・・・として・・・年働いてきた経験があります。
…toshite…nen hataraite kita keiken ga arimasu.
I have …years of experience working as…

Example 2:
・・・を使いこなすことができます。
…o tsuka konasukoto ga dekimasu.
I am an experienced user of…

You should also discuss your career objectives, how the position aligns with your goals, and how you can contribute to the company. Here is a phrase you can use:

Example 3:
貴社の・・・の実績を拝見し、・・・の分野において、今までの・・・のスキルを活かした仕事が可能だと考えました。また、・・・という社風にも大変魅力を感じております。
kisha no…no jisseki o haiken shi, …no bunya ni oite, ima made no… no sukiru o ikashita shigoto ga kanouda to kangaemashita. mata, …toiu shafunimo taihen miryoku o kanjite orimasu.
Having seen the achievements of your company, I thought that I could leverage my skills in… for the position in the field of…

Top Tip:
Increase your chances of being interviewed by matching your skill sets to the requirements listed on the job post.

Vocabulary

To help you, here are some skill-related vocabulary words that you can incorporate into your cover letter!

English	Japanese	Hiragana	Romaji
Excellent communication skills	コミュニケーション能力	こみゅにけーしょんのうりょく	Komyunikeshon nouryoku
Deductive reasoning	演繹的推理力	えんえきてきすいりりょく	Enekiteki suiriryoku
Logical thinking	論理的思考能力	ろんりてきしこうのうりょく	Ronriteki shikou nouryoku
Good interpersonal skills	対人能力	たいじんのうりょく	Taijin nouryoku
Analytical skills	分析能力	ぶんせきのうりょく	Bunseki nouryoku
Negotiation skills	交渉能力	こうしょうのうりょく	Koushou nouryoku
Presentation skills	プレゼンテーション能力	ぷれぜんてーしょんのうりょく	Purezenteeshon nouryoku
Machine learning Skills	機械学習能力	きかいがくしゅうのうりょく	Kikai gakushuu nouryoku
Programming languages	プログラミング言語	ぷろぐらみんぐげんご	Puroguramingu gengo

5. Closing

In the closing section, briefly reiterate your interest, leave a strong closing statement that shows your motivation to work for the company, and politely ask for a response to your application. To start your closing paragraph, you can use some of these common phrases to express your motivation to work for the company:

Example 1:
貴社の一員となり、思う存分自分の力を発揮したいと考えております。
Kisha no icchin to nari, omou zonbun jibun o hakki shitai to kangaete orimasu.
I am highly motivated and look forward to the varied work that a position in your company would offer me.

Then, near the end of your closing section, here are some expressions to show gratitude and how they can contact you to move forward in the process.

Example 2:
お時間を割いていただいてありがとうございました。お目にかかれる日を楽しみにしております。私には・・・を通してご連絡ください。
Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to the opportunity to personally discuss why I am particularly suited to this position. Please contact me via…

Example 3:
お忙しいなか恐縮ですが、どうぞ宜しくお願いいたします。
Oisogashii naka kyoushuku desuga, douzo yoroshiku onegai itashimasu.
Sorry to bother you when you are busy, and thank you for your consideration.

These expressions are great for ending your cover letter since they show appreciation for the reviewer’s time and consideration and encourage them to contact you again. These are a few of the many expressions you can use to close your cover letter. You always want to close strong by expressing appreciation and how you are looking forward to continuing the process with them.

6. Signing-Off

At the very end of the cover letter, you should sign off like you would an email. But depending on how you started your cover letter, you would have to pair your opening with the closing. One of the most common openings used in both cover letters and formal letters in general is as follows:

拝啓 (haikei) meaning “Dear Sir/Madam,” which can only be paired with 敬具 (keigu), meaning “Sincerely,” or “Regards.”

Sometimes it is common to sign off with a signature, but in most cases, you can just type your name, especially since you will mostly send cover letters online.

Quick Tip: After sending your resume, wait about 2-3 weeks and send a follow-up by letter, email, or phone. Contrary to what people might believe, this proactive approach is often seen as a good characteristic by the hiring company and shows your enthusiasm and willingness to work for the company.

Do’s & Don’ts for Writing Cover Letters

Here are some things to be mindful of when you write your cover letter!
Things to do:

Write clearly and accurately
Use full sentences
Use correct grammar
Be confident
Keep the length of the cover letter to 1 page or less (it is a summary of your resume)
Let a native Japanese or a Japanese of yours read your letter and give you feedback on how to improve
Use correct industry jargon, but do not overuse it
Show that you have done research about the job for which you are applying
Use positive, future-forward language expressing how you’re excited to continue working with the company.

Things not to do:

Avoid using overly haughty words; confidence is good, but you don’t want to come across as arrogant or prideful.
Try not to start all your sentences with “I”. Makes you look like a one-man show
Avoid too many contractions such as I’m, don’t, He’s or she’s.
While humor can help you stand out, try to ensure your tone is formal and do not rely too heavily on humor.
Do not use exclamation marks.
Do not say anything negative about your previous employer. This will not give you the best impression on the hiring team.
Do not use short forms or text speak.

Conclusion: Cover Letters Can Help You Stand Out in the Japanese Job Market

While cover letters were not the most common in the Japanese job market, they are slowly becoming common, especially as companies are starting to post more roles on job boards. So, try using some of the expressions on this blog on your next cover letter. These expressions will help your cover letter sound professional and clear while also expressing your interest in joining the company.

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FAQ:

Are cover letters required when applying for Japanese companies?

Japanese cover letters are not always required and are not as common as they are for Western companies. However, they are starting become more popular with companies that post jobs online and on different job boards.

How long are Japanese cover letters?

Japanese cover letters are typically concise, usually around one page or less, often consisting of just 3–4 short paragraphs that clearly discuss your background, motivations for joining, and appreciation to the interviewers for taking the time to consider your candidacy.

Do I have to explain why I'm leaving my current job?

Generally, it’s not necessary to discuss why you’re leaving your current company since you should just focus on what is motivating you to join the company. If you mention leaving your current job, keep it professional and positive. Avoid negative comments about previous employers. Detailed explanations are usually saved for the interview.

Should I write my Japanese cover letter in keigo?

Polite language (です・ます form) is standard. For more formal written submissions, respectful business expressions are recommended, like the ones we mentioned in this article. However, avoid overly complex keigo if it sounds unnatural. Clear and professional Japanese is better than forced formality.

Can I use the same cover letter for multiple companies

You can reuse the structure, but you should always customize the company name, why you’re interested in that specific company, and how your skills match their business. Japanese employers value sincerity and effort, so generic applications are easy to spot.

Primary colors in Japanese seem easy, but you’d be surprised by how much culture and history go behind them. Granted, a lot of Japanese vocabulary is borrowed from English, which makes it easy for us to memorize it—but in Japanese culture, colors play an important part in representing feelings, rituals, and ceremonies.

In Japanese, words for specific colors are used differently depending on their grammatical function. There are two sets – one set is the Japanese, and the other is a Katakana loan word version. There are two ways: one set is Japanese, and the other is a Katakana loan word version of their English counterparts. Most colors in Japanese end with 色, except for a few exceptions and words borrowed from English.

For example, the color “blue” can be both 青い (aoi) and ブルー (buruu).

Another example is the color orange. Even Japanese people will often opt for the loanword, オレンジ, instead of using the traditional Japanese word 橙色 (daidaiiro).

For beginners in Japanese, it can be very confusing to know which context is appropriate for which version. In this article, we will explain how to describe objects with colors in Japanese.

How Colors Work in Japanese

In Japanese, colors can function as nouns or adjectives, and they often come in two versions:

A native Japanese word
A katakana loanword borrowed from English

For example:

“Blue” can be expressed as 青い (aoi) or ブルー (buruu).
“Orange” is commonly said as オレンジ (orenji), even though a native word exists: 橙色 (daidaiiro).

Choosing between these versions depends on the context, which can be confusing for beginners. In this article, we’ll break down the rules and help you understand how to use colors naturally in Japanese.

Check out our YouTube video about Japanese colors!

Basic Colors in Japanese

Let’s start with the basics. The word for color in Japanese itself is called iro, or いろ (色). Some Japanese colors are based on nouns. For example, the noun for the color red is called aka (赤).

The table below lists nouns referring to different colors. The particle “の(no)” is used when describing the color of something. If you are not familiar with particles in Japanese, we recommend that you take a look at our guide to Japanese particles.

Take a look at our table below for the basic colors, both in Japanese and its English loanword.

English	Japanese	Furigana	Romaji	Katakana	Romaji
Red	赤	あか	Aka	レッド	Reddo
Orange	橙色	だいだいいろ	Daidaiiro	オレンジ	Orenji
Yellow	黄色	きいろ	Kiiro	イエロー	Ieroo
Green	緑	みどり	Midori	グリーン	Guriin
Blue	青	あお	Ao	ブルー	Buruu
Purple	紫	むらさき	Murasaki	パープル	Paapuru
Pink	桃色	ももいろ	Momoiro	ピンク	Pinku
Brown	茶色	ちゃいろ	Chairo	ブラウン	Buraun
Grey	灰色	はいいろ	Haiiro	グレイ	Gurei
Black	黒	くろ	Kuro	ブラック	Purakku
White	白	しろ	Shiro	ホワイト	Howaito

The basic sentence pattern for describing colors is color + の + subject. For example, if you want to describe a green window, you add the particle の. It would be:

みどりの窓口(まどぐち)
Midori no madoguchi
Green window (usually referring to the ticket office at a train station in Japan)

Another example would be describing purple socks below.

紫(むらさき)の靴下(くつした)
Murasaki no kutsushita
Purple socks.

Not sure when to use の or な? Read our guide on な-adjectives and の-adjectives.

Japanese Colors as Adjectives

Color can also be used as an adjective in the Japanese language. Surprisingly, there are only 4 colors that will become an adjective when “い” is added directly to the back. They are red, blue, yellow, black, and white, and we only need to add the hiragana い (i) to the end of the word (instead of の).

English	Japanese	Furigana	Romaji
Red	赤い	あかい	Akai
Blue	青い	あおい	Aoi
Black	黒い	くろい	Kuroi
White	白い	しろい	Shiroi

To use Japanese colors as adjectives, you can use them directly in front of a subject. For example, to say the blue sea, you can say:

あおい海(うみ)
Aoi umi
Blue sea

海(うみ)はあおいです。
Umi wa aoi desu
The sea is blue.

So why only four, and why are these colors special? It is because only four colors existed as the basic forms of color in the ancient Japanese language — or, at least, acknowledged: 白 shiro (white), 黒 kuro (black), 赤 aka (red), and 青 ao (blue).

The same can be seen in other basic color wheels. Kuro (くろ) and shiro (しろ) are used to describe things that are dark and light, cool and warm. The word あか covers a spectrum of dark red, orange, and yellow, with lighter yellow colors grouped to しろ. Ki (黄) paints in shades of yellow, gold, and lighter brown. Murasaki (むらさき) was once the name of a plant, but eventually became a color name for purple, too.

Rather than actual colors, these words are used to group particular hues and shades. For example, different shades of blue in the past are now purple, gray, and green.

More Advanced Colors in Japanese

If you feel that the basic colors are too general, here are some Japanese words for more specific colors.

English	Japanese	Furigana	Romaji
Silver	銀	ぎん	Gin
Gold	金	きん	Kin
Rainbow clour	虹色	にじいろ	Nijiiro
Light Blue	水色	みずいろ	Mizuiro
Navy Blue	紺色	こんいろ	Koniro
Purple	紫	むらさき	Murasaki
Yellowish Green	黄緑	きみどり	Kimidori
Beige	ベージュ	べえじゅ	beeju
Navy Blue	紺色	こんいろ	kon-iro
Ultramarine Blue	群青色	ぐんじょういろ	gunjou-iro
Lapis Lazuli Blue	瑠璃色	るりいろ	ruri-iro
Indigo	藍色	あいいろ	ai-iro
Crimson	臙脂色	えんじいろ	enji-iro
Vermilion	朱色	しゅいろ	shu-iro
Peach Pink	桃色	ももいろ	momo-iro
Coral	珊瑚色	さんごいろ	sango-iro
Mustard Yellow	芥子色	からしいろ	karashi-iro
Golden Yellow	山吹色	やまぶきいろ	yamabuki-iro
Yellow-Green	萌黄色	もえぎいろ	moegi-iro
Fresh Grass Green	若草色	わかくさいろ	wakakusa-iro
Bush Warbler Green (Olive)	鶯色	うぐいすいろ	uguisu-iro
Matcha Green	抹茶色	まっちゃいろ	maccha-iro
Silvery Gray	銀鼠	ぎんねず	gin-nezu
Grayish Pink	灰桜	はいざくら	haizakura

Confusions Around Colors in Japanese

At first glance, Japanese colors seem straightforward, but some of them don’t follow the rules you’d expect. Here are two of the biggest sources of confusion:

1. Why 黄色い (kiiroi) and 茶色い (chairoi) Don’t Follow the Same Pattern

You might assume that 黄色 (kiiro, yellow) and 茶色 (chairo, brown) work just like 赤い (akai, red) or 青い (aoi, blue)—but they don’t. While 赤 and 青 can be used directly as adjectives (赤い, 青い), 黄 (ki) and 茶 (cha) need 色 (iro, “color”) to form proper words.

茶 (cha) originally meant tea, so “tea color” became 茶色 (chairo) rather than just 茶.
黄 (ki) referred to brightness rather than a specific hue, so it had to be combined with 色 to become 黄色 (kiiro, “yellow color”).

When used as adjectives, they follow a different rule:
✅ 黄色い (kiiroi), 茶色い (chairoi)
❌ 黄い (kii), 茶い (chai) (These forms don’t exist.)

This small but important difference is a common pitfall for Japanese learners.

2. The Blurred Line Between Blue and Green

One of the most unexpected quirks of Japanese is that 青 (ao, blue) was historically used for both blue and green. Even today, some green objects are still described as 青 instead of 緑 (midori, green).

For example:

青りんご (aoringo) → “Green apple”
青信号 (aoshingou) → “Green traffic light.”

The word 緑 (midori) only became widely used after World War II, which explains why certain things are still labeled 青 even if they’re clearly green.

This historical overlap can be confusing, but once you recognize the pattern, it starts to feel more natural!

To learn more about the differences and fun historical facts, check out our exploration on the difference between aoi and midori!

Meanings of Colors in Japanese Culture

A lot of countries (and cultures) place importance on colors. While each tradition may not share the same ideals, specific colors often symbolize positive or negative qualities. Depending on the meaning it represents, people might steer clear of wearing that color at a certain event, or, on the contrary, feel inclined to wear it.

Symbolism in Japanese colors is deeply rooted in China and its traditional philosophies, including Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism. In the past, these philosophies affected the association of color with each social class of Japanese society.

In other words, colors represent the values of life, particularly white, red, black, and blue — the four primary colors in Japanese culture. This is why you’ll see that most Japanese clothing, architecture, and events incorporate them.

Meaning of White Color in Japanese Culture

White (白い) takes the majority of the Japanese flag. As the color of the gods, it represents purity, both spiritual and physical, and reverence for divinity. In Buddhism, white was worn at funerals as it also means death, and funerals were often marked with white and black stripes.

However, it was the focus of Shinto traditions (check out Japanese religion vocabulary here). You’ll notice white sand, pebbles, and decorations at shrines to honor the gods’ wisdom and knowledge. Emperors in Japan would be dressed in white for Shinto rituals, and brides would be covered in white dresses and head coverings for their weddings.

1. Meaning of Red Color in Japanese Culture

The focal point of the Japanese national flag, red (赤い), symbolizes authority, strength, and prosperity. This is why it is especially symbolic when paired with white.

Red plays a dominant part in Japanese architecture. You’ll notice shrines and temples are painted in red, as it is believed the color can ward away evil spirits while strengthening the link between humans and gods in Shinto shrines. At festivals, people would cover the tables and floor with red cloth and carpets.

2. Meaning of Black Color in Japanese Culture

Before Western influence, black (黒い) wasn’t always the color for mourning, but it did have a somewhat negative association. While purple represented the highest rank in the Japanese social class (royalty), black marked the lowest of them. The dark shade was tied to evil, bad luck, fear, and misfortune.

3. Meaning of Blue Color in Japanese Culture

Blue dye, made from the indigo plant, was the most accessible (and affordable) color Japanese people could use to make clothing and textiles. As such, blue (青い)is the color of common people, worn on kimonos, formal attire, and common wear.

Summary of Colors in Japanese Culture

Colors have a rich cultural significance in Japan, and their meaning and symbolism can vary depending on the context. Here are some examples:

Red: The color of the sun, often associated with good luck, happiness, and prosperity. It is also the color of the Japanese flag and is used in many traditional Japanese festivals and ceremonies.
White: The color of purity, often associated with death and mourning. It is also the color of weddings and is worn by brides on their wedding day.
Black: The color of darkness and mystery. It is also the color of death and mourning. However, black is also associated with power and sophistication, and is often worn by businesspeople and government officials.
Blue: Blue is the color of the sky and the ocean. It is often associated with peace, calmness, and serenity. It is also the color of loyalty and trust, and is often worn by police officers and other government officials.
Green: The color of nature, often associated with growth, fertility, and new beginnings. It is also the color of youth and vitality.

Other colors that have cultural significance in Japan include:

Pink: Pink is the color of cherry blossoms, which are a symbol of spring and new beginnings. It is also associated with femininity and youth.
Gold: The color of the sun, associated with wealth, prosperity, and good luck. It is often used in temples and shrines, and is also used in traditional Japanese art and crafts.
Purple: Purple is the color of the Japanese imperial family and is associated with royalty, luxury, and power. It is also associated with mystery and spirituality.
Silver: Silver is the color of the moon and is associated with femininity, gentleness, and purity. It is also associated with wealth and prosperity.

Regional Differences in Color Usage in Japan

Even though Japanese has standardized color names, some regional variations still exist. These differences often come from history, local dialects, and cultural influences.

One of the most well-known cases is 青 (ao, blue) being used for green. While modern Japanese distinguishes between 青 (blue) and 緑 (Midori, green), older traditions persist, especially in the official language. This is why green traffic lights are still called 青信号 (aoshingō, “blue light”), even though they are clearly green. In some rural areas, people may still refer to certain green landscapes or vegetables as 青 instead of 緑.

In historical and artistic contexts, specific regional color names exist that aren’t commonly used in daily life. For example, 浅葱色 (asagi-iro, light indigo) was a color often used in Edo-period clothing but isn’t widely recognized today. Similarly, Kyoto’s traditional 紅 (beni, deep crimson) carries cultural significance in textiles and ceremonies, whereas Tokyo speakers might just call it 赤 (aka, red).

Even color associations can shift by region. In some parts of Japan, white is the dominant color for ceremonial dress, while in others, purple is the preferred color for nobility and formality. These subtle differences don’t affect daily conversations much, but they add depth to how colors are used in traditions, design, and even branding across Japan.

How to Describe Different Shades in Japanese

Japanese allows for a lot of flexibility when describing colors, making it easy to express lighter, darker, or mixed shadesof any color.

For softer, pastel tones, you can use 淡い (awai, pale/light) before the color:

淡い青 (awai ao) – light blue
淡い緑 (awai midori) – soft green

For richer, deeper shades, 濃い (koi, dark/deep) is commonly used:

濃い赤 (koi aka) – deep red
濃い紫 (koi murasaki) – dark purple

If you want to describe something that leans toward a certain color but isn’t quite there, you can use ～っぽい (-ppoi, “ish”):

青っぽい (aoppoi) – bluish
茶色っぽい (chairoppoi) – brownish

Some color terms also specify metallic or pastel variations:

金色 (kiniro) – gold
銀色 (giniro) – silver
パステルピンク (pasuteru pinku) – pastel pink

Using these expressions helps add precision to your descriptions, making your Japanese sound more natural and expressive when talking about colors!

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FAQ

What is color in Japanese?

The word for color in Japanese is 色 (いろ, iro).

Japanese has a wide range of color terms, but traditionally, it recognized four main colors (white, black, red, blue) before expanding to include others like green, yellow, and purple.

What are the primary colors in Japan?

The traditional primary colors in Japan are 白 (shiro, white), 黒 (kuro, black), 赤 (aka, red), and 青 (ao, blue). Modern classifications also include 黄 (ki, yellow) and 緑 (midori, green).

What is beige in Japanese?

Beige is commonly said as ベージュ (bēju), borrowed from French. A more traditional term is 薄茶色 (うすちゃいろ, usuchairo), meaning “light brown.”

What color is Japan?

Symbolically, Japan is associated with red and white, as seen in its flag. These colors represent purity, the sun, and national identity.

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The easiest way to say “no” in Japanese is by saying “いいえ (iie).” But did you know that it is not always that simple? Japanese people will rarely give a direct “no” as an answer, preferring instead to communicate indirectly a message that conveys so.

Japanese culture and the language itself have developed to prioritize politeness as a way to maintain peace and cooperation. Because of this, saying “no” directly can feel too harsh or disruptive in a society that highly values harmony. That’s why Japanese speakers usually choose their words very carefully, especially in business or formal situations.

So, what are the different ways you can say “no” in Japanese? How do you decline an invitation or a favor without offending your Japanese peers? In this article, we will go over some unique ways to turn something into Japanese. Let’s continue reading to find out!

Basic ways to say no in Japanese

The exact word and textbook translation for no in Japanese is “いいえ (iie).” In more casual settings, you might also say “ううん (uun)”. Let’s check them out in more detail.

1. いいえ (Iie)

The first and most straightforward way to say “no” in Japanese, which you’ll often see in textbooks, is いいえ (iie). It consists of a long “i” vowel, pronounced “ee” (like in tree), followed by “eh.”

However, textbooks don’t usually mention that iie can sometimes sound too blunt or harsh in real-life situations. While it’s common in forms or situations that require a clear “yes” or “no” — はい (hai) or いいえ (iie) — using iie in conversation can feel like a strong, outright rejection.

To soften your response, Japanese speakers often use いや (iya) in casual situations or いえ (ie) for a shorter, slightly more formal alternative when saying “no.” This brings us to our next topic!

2. いや (Iya)

いや (iya) is a casual way to say “no” or “I don’t want to” in Japanese. It’s less formal than いいえ (iie) and has a softer, more natural tone in everyday conversation. Unlike iie, which can feel like a blunt rejection, iya often expresses personal feelings or reluctance rather than an outright refusal.

There is a catch, though: iya is commonly used with people you are familiar with. We recommend avoiding using it with bosses, strangers, or in polite situations.

In any case, let’s take a look at an example of rejecting an offer using iya.

これ食べる？
Kore taberu?
Do you want to eat this?

いや、大丈夫。
Iya, daijoubu.
No, I’m fine.

3. ううん (Uun)

ううん (uun) is an informal, casual way to say “no” in Japanese. It is equivalent to “nah” or “nope” in English. To pronounce it, say it like oo-n, with a short pause between the vowels.

Despite being a casual way to say “no” in Japanese, ううん (uun) is often delivered with a friendly, soft intonation, making it a gentle refusal rather than a harsh rejection.

これ欲しい？
Kore hoshii?
Do you want this?ううん、いらない。
Uun, iranai.
No, I don’t need it.

Be careful not to confuse ううん (uun), a casual way to say “no,” with the “yes” version, うん (un). The latter is a shorter, more affirmative sound, often accompanied by nodding or other body language to show agreement.

4. ちょっと (Chotto)

Now we’re getting to ways of saying “no” indirectly. The first example is ちょっと (chotto), which literally means “a little” or “a little while.” You’ve probably heard it in the phrase ちょっと待って (chotto matte), meaning “please wait a moment.”

When used to decline something, chotto is often a shortened way of saying something like “it’s a little difficult” or “I’m a little too busy.” You can either leave it at just chotto, or add your own excuse.

The beauty of this approach is that, because Japanese people are accustomed to indirect communication, they can usually read between the lines and understand that you are politely declining. This is best used in casual situations with friends or family. Just remember: when someone says chotto to you, it’s also your cue to pick up on the polite refusal!

For example, they could say chotto, which conveys the difficulty of answering a request.

A: 明日一緒に飲みませんか?
Why don’t we drink together tomorrow?
Ashita, isshyo ni nomimasen ka?

B: ごめんなさい、明日はちょっと用事があって・・・
I am sorry, tomorrow. I have some errands…
Gomennasai, ashita wa chotto youji ga atte…

Perhaps the best way to interpret no in Japanese is to understand the different levels. We have divided them into four groups, starting from definite expressions to the grey and ambiguous expressions that you have to read between the lines.

How to say no in Japanese around friends & colleagues

There are three expressions typically used by friends and close colleagues when it comes to expressing refusal: むり, ダメ, and できない. These are ideal for more casual situations.

1. 無理 (muri)

Translation: Impossible

The word むり (muri) literally means “impossible.” It’s a way to say “no” by emphasizing that something can’t be done, like saying, “There is no way I can do that.”

There is a hint of sarcasm when using 無理 (muri), since it’s technically a hyperbole. Overusing it can make you sound negative or defeatist, so it’s best reserved for situations where refusal is truly unavoidable.

For example, if your friend asks if you can get to their house in 5 minutes but they live an hour away, you can say むり (muri).

2. ダメ (dame)

Translation: Not good

ダメ is usually translated into English as “no good”, “not allowed”, or “cannot”. Unlike ちょっと (chotto), which softens a refusal, だめ (dame) does the opposite: it is one of the firmest ways to say “no” in Japanese. It can be used to indicate that a situation is hopeless, that something is broken, or to tell someone that they shouldn’t do something.

A: あなたの部屋(へや)にたべてもいいですか？
Anatono heya ni tabetemo iidesuka?
Is it okay if I eat in your room?

B: だめです。
Dame desu.
No, you may not.

3. できない (dekinai)

Translation: Cannot

できない is less definite. できない emphasizes your personal inability rather than the impossibility of the situation itself. In other words, it expresses the speaker’s regret that the circumstances would not allow acting in accordance with one’s request. Always keep in mind, these expressions are rarely, if ever, heard as a response to a request in business-related situations.

The nuance of using できない (dekinai) is neutral and factual. Still, it can sound firm depending on the context.

明日手伝える？
Ashita tetsudaeru?
Can you help tomorrow?

ごめん、できない。
Gomen, dekinai.
Sorry, I can’t do it.

How to say no in Japanese in a business context

Saying “no” in Japanese when you are speaking with a client or company partner is even trickier. Professionals use softer, more tactful ways to decline requests, turn down proposals, or express limitations without offending colleagues or clients. In general, people can use these three expressions:

1. 厳しい (kibishii) & 難しい (Muzukashii)

Translation: Strict and difficult

Words like 厳しい (kibishii) or 難しい (muzukashii) are used to softly communicate refusal or difficulty. These terms imply that a request is challenging or difficult to fulfill, without outright rejecting it.

厳しい (kibishii) is often used to indicate that meeting a request would be difficult due to rules, standards, or constraints. 難しい (muzukashii), on the other hand, suggests that completing the task or agreeing to the request is complicated or challenging.

今の状況では、対応が難しいです。
Ima no joukyou dewa, taiou ga muzukashii desu.
Given the current situation, it’s difficult to accommodate.

2. 大変 (Taihen)

Translation: Tough, difficult, hard

たいへん (taihen), on the other hand, refers to a suggestion or request that is not easy because of a situation’s complexity. The word has a similar meaning to むずかしい (muzukashii), but is often used for situations or experiences rather than just problems.

The term たいへん can be subjective and creates ambiguity amongst the parties involved in various business relations.

Speaking Japanese in a formal capacity can seem overwhelming and full of nuances to be aware of. So, read our Introduction to Japanese Keigo to overcome the fear of speaking out of turn in delicate situations.

3. 遠慮する (Enryo suru)

遠慮する literally means “to refrain” or “to hold back,” and in business Japanese, it’s a polite way to decline an offer, invitation, or request without directly saying no.

今回は遠慮させていただきます。
Konkai wa enryo sasete itadakimasu.
I will respectfully decline this time.

Other ways to indirectly say no in Japanese

Other words tend to dwell in the grey areas of meaning and interpretation. Even native Japanese speakers could misinterpret the signals these words are meant to express. But it’s possible the ambiguity is intentional to avoid commitment or disrupting harmony when multiple parties are involved in the decision-making.

1. 微妙 (Bimiyoe)

Translation: Subtle, delicate, tricky

びみょう expresses a borderline scenario where neither party can express certainty of what will play out. Despite the underlying uncertainty hinted at in びみょう, more often than not, the speaker means to decline.

2. 結構です (Kekkou)

Translation: Enough

The Japanese expression けっこうです may be the greyest of these expressions. The term can have completely opposite meanings, such as an affirmative “ok” or a negative “no thank you”.

3. 忙しい (Isogashii)

Translation: Busy

Now, this brings us to いそがしい, typically used as an excuse to decline a request. Of course, it is a tactical way to say no in Japanese, and you can use it even though you are not actually busy! People usually take it as an immediate hint that you can’t go to an invitation. If you got this reply from your Japanese peers, and don’t bother asking to reschedule despite!

明日、公園行くか？
Ashita, kouen iku ka？
Tomorrow, do you want to go to the park?

ごもえん、明日は少し忙しくて…
Sumimasen, ashita wa sukoshi isogashikute..
Sorry, tomorrow I am a bit busy..

4. 大丈夫 (Daijoubu)

大丈夫 (daijoubu) literally means “okay” or “all right,” but in Japanese, it can also be used to politely decline help, an offer, or a suggestion without directly saying “no.” Basically, you are saying that you can manage on your own or that the offer is not needed, making it a polite, soft refusal.

手伝いましょうか？
Tetsudai mashou ka?
Shall I help?

大丈夫です、ありがとうございます。
Daijoubu desu, arigatou gozaimasu.
I’m fine, thank you.

Showing uncertainty to indirectly refuse or decline something in Japanese

If you thought there weren’t enough ambiguous expressions for saying no in Japanese, there are a few more. However, these terms leave potential for an affirmative response. Initially, when someone uses these expressions, it may seem they are denying your request; however, they are actually expressing uncertainty about the current circumstances, which could change in the future

1. かもしれません / かもしれない / かも (Kamoshiremasen / kamoshirenai / kamo)

Translation: Maybe, might, possibly

かもしれません and all of its variations communicate a certain level of uncertainty, like saying “maybe” or “perhaps”. This expression is more of a clause that attaches to verbs or nouns. So, if you want to say “I probably can’t make it,” you would attach かもしれない to いけない by saying “いけないかもしれない”. This expresses a higher probability that you can’t make it, while being open to the possibility that you can.

In the video above, Yuka-sensei will introduce you to a more in-depth explanation of how to use かもしれない!

2. 多分 (tabun)

Translation: Maybe

たぶん is similar to かもしれない since it also conveys uncertainty. The difference here is that 多分 doesn’t attach to other words and can be used more flexibly. Below are some instances of how to use たぶん:

Using tabun when refusing

A: Can you make it? いけますか？ ikemasuka?

B: Maybe, I cannot. 多分、いけません。tabun, ikemasen.

Using tabun when affirming

A: Is that a dog? 「それはいぬですか？」 sore wa inu desu ka

B: I think so. 「多分そうでしょう。」tabun soudeshou

3. 臨機応変に対応する (Rinkiouhen ni taiyou suru)

Translation: Let’s play it by ear

The expression, “りんきおうへんにたいおうする” is similar to the English expression: let’s play it by ear. This expression is often used to postpone difficult decisions at business meetings when the voting is not unanimous.

Go beyond saying no in Japanese and speak confidently with Coto Academy!

Why stop at just learning how to refuse something in Japanese? Keep improving your Japanese with fun, flexible lessons and expert guidance at Coto Academy. Our courses are designed for learners of all levels and provide practical, real-life Japanese that you can use immediately.

If you’re just starting your Japanese journey and want a comprehensive course that teaches everything from the basics, with easy-to-follow lessons, plenty of example sentences, and speaking practice, Coto Academy is here to help. Join our part-time or intensive courses, available in Tokyo, Yokohama, or online!

Start learning Japanese the smart way! Fill out the contact form below to get started and receive a free Japanese level check.

FAQ

What is the word for "no" in Japanese?

The direct translation for “no” in Japanese is いいえ(iie). But there are many ways one can say “no,” especially to be more polite in more formal or delicate situations.

What is a polite way to say "no" in Japanese?

There are many ways to say “no” politely in Japanese, such as simply saying “chotto,” which implies the request is a bit difficult to fulfill. In a situation when denying someone a kind offer, you could say “kekkou desu” or even “daijoubu desu”. In a more formal context, saying “kibishii” or “muzukashii” would be a polite way of saying “no”.

Do Japanese People Never Say "No"? Do they say something else instead?

Japanese people do say “no” but tend to do so in more indirect ways to avoid conflict. They don’t want to seem rude or outright decline someone. So, a few common phrases instead of a direct “no” include,

結構です (kekkou desu): It’s okay or I’m fine
厳しい (kibishii): tough/difficult situation
忙しい (isogashii): I’m busy

Master Japanese faster with Japanese intensive courses

Fast-track your study with Coto Academy’s leading Japanese intensive course. This all-in-one, full-time immersion allows students to completely master Japanese. Students will learn Japanese in Tokyo and Yokohama with professional, native tutors. Featuring small classes, you will get to practice all aspects of the Japanese language.

Availability:

Monday to Friday, 9:30-12:20 or 14:10-17:00 | Yokohama only 9:10-12:00. Check course schedule here.

Levels:

All levels

Class size:

Max 8 students

Location:

Tokyo (Shinjuku, Shibuya, Minato, Iidabashi) and Yokohama language schools

Length:

150 mins per day (9:30 – 12:20 or 14:10 – 17:00)

Frequency:

Monday – Friday

Focus:

Japanese reading, speaking, listening, and writing

Things to note: Curriculum requirements apply only at the beginner level.

Intensive Japanese Lessons for All Levels

From complete beginners to advanced, our full-time Japanese lessons are structured into 18 levels to correspond with JLPT levels.

Japanese Crash Courses

For individuals who are completely new to the Japanese language.

Students will begin by learning the foundational aspects of Japanese writing, focusing on Katakana and Hiragana. They will then engage in practical exercises to learn a variety of simple phrases commonly used in daily conversations.

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Intensive Japanese Courses- Total Beginner Level

Intensive Japanese Courses - Beginner Level

Beginner-level Intensive Japanese Courses

Suitable for Japanese learners with little prior experience.

Students will learn the fundamentals of reading, listening, speaking, and writing in Japanese. By the end of the course, they will feel confident in their ability to introduce themselves, ask basic questions, and engage in everyday interactions.

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Intermediate-level Intensive Japanese Courses

For experienced Japanese learners who want to enhance their skills.

Students will learn how to connect sentences for better communication and expand their kanji knowledge to read more complex texts. The main focus is on improving conversational skills for more natural and fluent discussions in real-life situations.

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Intensive Japanese Courses - Intermediate Level

Intensive Japanese Courses - Advanced Level

Advanced-level Intensive Japanese Courses

Designed for advanced learners aiming to polish their Japanese skills.

Students will learn complex phrases, advanced vocabulary, and a broader range of kanji characters, improving their reading and writing. The course covers intricate grammar structures and cultural nuances, enabling more natural expression in various social and professional contexts.

For professionals closer to fluency, our advanced intensive course covers the business Japanese curriculum, including client communication, formal language, and workplace conventions, in an immersive, fast-track format.

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4.5

Garrett

The class is fun, and the materials are great. I really appreciate the focus on conversation.

5.0

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The friendly staff and relaxing environment make it a great place to study. I especially enjoy the conversation classes, which help with real-life Japanese.

5.0

Ynez

I found the real-life interactions with teachers very helpful and would love more opportunities to practice.

4.5

Kyle

The intensive class is great, and the teachers and staff are amazing. I really enjoy my classes here.

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Ian

I appreciate how knowledgeable and patient the teacher is. The lessons are relaxing and easy to study, making learning enjoyable.

4.5

Ebony

The staff is kind, and the teachers are great. If you want to take Japanese classes, I recommend Coto!

Why Study at Coto Academy?

Personalized Japanese Classes
Conversation-based Japanese language programs with small classes of up to 8 students, tailored to individual goals.

25+ Years of Professional Teaching Experience
Coto Academy’s instructors are native speakers who are highly trained and experienced professionals.

Flexible Class schedule
Intensive Japanese lesson starts monthly, so you can join soon without having to wait for it.

5 Locations in Tokyo and Yokohama
Located Japanese language schools in Tokyo: Shinjuku, Yokohama, Shibuya, Iidabashi, and Azabu/Minato, offering easy access.

Explore Our School Locations

Tokyo

Shibuya

Language School

Known for its youth culture, Shibuya offers plenty of entertainment and shopping options. Recommended for beginner and intermediate learners.

Mon-Thu: 9:00-21:00

Fri: 9:00-17:00

Tokyo

Shinjuku

Language School

Shinjuku is Tokyo's major commercial, entertainment, and shopping hub. Recommended for beginners.

Mon, Wed, Fri: 9:00–18:00

Tue, Thu: 9:00-21:00

Tokyo

Iidabashi

Language School

A comfortable neighborhood with easy access to business districts. Recommended for intermediate, advanced, and JLPT learners.

Mon-Fri: 9:00-21:00

Sat: 10:00-17:00

Yokohama

Language School

A scenic port city known for its multicultural atmosphere and a beautiful waterfront. Recommended for all learners and families.

Mon-Thu: 9:00-21:00

Fri: 9:00-17:00

Sat: 10:00-17:00

Tokyo

Minato

Language School

With its its stylish boutiques, upscale dining, and cozy cafés, Minato is vibrant yet relaxed. Recommended for all learners and families.

Mon-Thu: 9:00-21:00

Fri: 9:00-18:00

Course Fees For the Intensive Courses & Intensive Plus

You can choose how many weeks of classes you would like to take!
If you sign up 6 weeks before your class starts, an Early Bird Discount applies!
A ¥10,000 registration fee is required for new students.
If you sign up for more than 3 months, the initial registration fee and material fee are waived.
For Intensive Plus, you can choose to take one or two additional lessons per week!

Regular Pricing

Intensive Plus

40,000

1 week

136,000

4 weeks

360,000

12 weeks

648,000

24 weeks

972,000

36 weeks

42,700

1 week + 1 Extra class

146,400

4 weeks + 4 extra classes

388,800

12 weeks + 12 extra classes

703,200

24 weeks + 24 extra classes

1,054,800

36 weeks + 36 extra classes

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Course Level Guide

Course Level	Available Classes	Description	Textbook
Intensive Total Beginner Course (JLPT N5)	Japanese Crash Course	A 4-week Japanese course is designed for students with no prior Japanese experience. Over four weeks, you will: Learn basic greetings and essential expressions for daily life Master the fundamentals of hiragana and katakana Practice short conversations in common everyday situations	Nihongo Fun & Easy
Intensive Beginner Course (JLPT N5 – JLPT N4)	B1 – B3	For learners who already know hiragana, katakana, and basic vocabulary. Engage in simple, everyday conversations	Genki 1
Intensive Beginner Course (JLPT N5 – JLPT N4)	B4 – B6	Expand your range of Japanese expressions. By the end of the course, students will gain greater confidence in speaking Japanese.	Genki 2
Intensive Intermediate Course (JLPT N4 – N3)	I1 – I2	Learn natural daily conversations in Japanese. Review previously learned expressions and expand your daily-life vocabulary. Practice speaking naturally in a variety of everyday situations.	Weekly J
Intensive Intermediate Course (JLPT N4 – N3)	I3 – I5	Master Japanese in a practical, real-world context. Express more complex ideas and opinions in everyday situations. Develop the ability to understand social and abstract topics.	中級へ行こう (Chuukyuu e Ikou) 日本語総まとめ N3漢字 (Nihongo Sou Matome N3 Kanji)
Intensive Advanced (JLPT N3 – N2)	A1 – A2	Focus on understanding abstract and complex Japanese while expanding conversations to topics of personal interest and specialized fields. Express personal opinions and construct arguments effectively. Gain familiarity with real business situations and master the use of honorific expressions.	中級を学ぼう(前期) (Chuukyuu o Manabou) 日本語総まとめN2漢字(Nihongo Sou Matome N2 Kanji)
Intensive Advanced (JLPT N3 – N2)	A3 – A5	Comprehend longer sentences and more advanced content. Express coherent opinions on various topics. Handle advanced tasks such as negotiating and making requests. Engage in in-depth conversations using advanced grammar and vocabulary with native speakers. Participate in discussions on complex subjects, including business and current affairs.	中級を学ぼう(中期) (Chuukyuu o Manabou) 日本語総まとめN2漢字 (Nihongo Sou Matome N2 Kanji)
Intensive Business Japanese	B1 – B2	A 2-month business Japanese course focused on improving communication skills for work. Designed for students who want to build a career in Japanese.	ビジネス日本語30時間課題達成のプロセスで学ぶビジネスコミュニケーション (Work in Japanese! Business Japanese in 30 Hours)

Coto Academy Intensive Course Guide Download Course Guide Here

FAQ

Where are Coto Academy's schools located?

Coto Academy has five physical school locations, all in Tokyo and Yokohama, for in-person Japanese language learning. They are located in Shibuya, Shinjuku, Iidabashi, Minato, and Yokohama. Coto Academy Shinjuku is its latest location, opening in April 2026.

What are the Intensive Japanese Courses?

Our Intensive Japanese Courses are designed to help students master Japanese speaking, listening, writing, and reading skills. This course is more suitable for students who are fully committed to studying.

Are Intensive Japanese Courses available in the evenings and on Saturdays?

Yes, they are! Please fill in the inquiry form and ask us about the schedule.

Can I join Intensive Japanese Courses anytime?

Yes, you can join them anytime. The classes usually start on Monday. Please fill out the inquiry form and ask us about the schedule.

Is the course suitable for JLPT preparation?

Yes, our Intensive Japanese Courses align with the JLPT (Japanese Language Proficiency Test) levels. Whether you’re preparing for JLPT N5, N4, N3, or higher, our courses are structured to help you improve all aspects of language proficiency, including speaking, listening, reading, and writing. However, we have a dedicated JLPT course available as well!

How many days do I study in the intensive Japanese class at Coto Academy?

You study 5 days a week, Monday to Friday, for about 3 hours per day.

What is the schedule for Coto Academy’s full-time Japanese class?

The schedule varies each month, but each intensive course lasts about 4 weeks per level. Check out our latest course schedules here.

Can I take morning or afternoon intensive Japanese classes?

Yes, classes are available in the morning or afternoon, depending on your level.

How do I sign up for a class at Coto Academy?

Fill out our contact form and schedule a free 1-on-1 consultation with our in-house education consultant, who will do a language test and help find the right course for you.

Who takes Japanese lessons at Coto Academy?

Our students are international residents in Japan, ranging from working professionals and career changers to spouses and family members of businesspeople. We have a diverse student body from countries like the U.S., Canada, France, and Germany, with ages ranging from their mid-20s to 70s. We have recently welcomed short-term visitors too.

How is Coto Academy’s intensive Japanese course divided?

Courses are divided into beginner (JLPT N5–N4), intermediate (N3), and advanced (N2) levels. Each level typically runs for 4 weeks.

What is the top full-time Japanese course in Tokyo?

Coto Academy is considered to be one of the top Japanese language schools, known for its intensive course.

Does Coto Academy offer business Japanese class?

Yes, Coto Academy offers business Japanese courses in Tokyo covering formal language, workplace communication, and professional conventions. Part-time and intensive options are available; speak to our staff to find the right fit for your goals!