As a society that values harmony and peace over confrontation, there is a general perception that Japanese people tend to say more polite phrases than most. Words like “arigatou gozaimasu (thank you),” and “sumimasen (excuse me)” pop up all the time — and “no problem” is in Japanese one of the go-to phrases you’ll hear everywhere, too.
The most basic way to say “no problem” in Japanese is 問題ない (mondai nai). However, Japanese has taken this phrase to a whole new level, and you’ll notice that there are several variations depending on the situation, many of which don’t even literally mean “no problem.” Depending on who you’re talking to, whether it’s a coworker asking for a favor at work or a teacher giving instructions at school, you might want to use a version that is more polite or casual.
Check out all the ways to say “No problem!” in Japanese. The next time someone bumps into you and apologizes, you can say something besides the usual “daijoubu desu!”
1. 問題はありません (Mondai wa arimasen)
Degree of politeness: Formal
問題はありません (mondai wa arimasen) is the most basic way to say “no problem” in Japanese. It literally translates to “there is no problem.”
The word 問題 (mondai) means “problem” or “issue.” はありません (wa arimasen) is a negative expression used in Japanese to indicate that something does not exist or is not present, and it is commonly used with nouns.
This is a textbook-perfect example of the phrase “no problem” in Japanese, ticking all the correct boxes. It’s also probably the safest choice to use if you’re speaking with strangers or people you don’t know well.
この仕事、今日中に終わらせられますか？ Kono shigoto, kyoujuu ni owarasaremasu ka? Can you finish this work by today?”
はい、問題はありません。 Hai, mondai wa arimasen. Yes, no problem.
The more you get used to speaking Japanese, the more you’ll start to prefer other variations of 問題はありません (mondai wa arimasen) to sound more natural, which we’ll get to shortly!
2. 問題ない (Mondai nai)
Degree of politeness: Casual
Mondai nai is the literal way to say “No problem.” 問題 (もんだい) means ‘problem’ and ない means ‘there is not’. Do note that ない is spoken in casual speech, and it should be replaced by ありません (arimasen) to be used in formal situations.
You might also notice that we’ve omitted the particle は (wa). In Japanese, は marks the topic of a sentence, but in casual speech, it’s often dropped when the meaning is clear from context. It’s somewhat similar to English, where in informal speech we might shorten “Where are you going?” to “Where you going?”
Keep in mind that this is a casual form, so don’t use it when speaking to clients or your boss! You can still use it with strangers, depending on whether you want to sound formal and distant or casual and friendly.
For example, when a friend asks you to help with his homework, you can say:
この問題、手伝ってくれる？ Kono mondai, tetsudatte kureru? Can you help me with this problem?
うん、問題ないよ。 Un, mondai nai yo. Yeah, no problem!
3. 問題ございません (Mondai gozaimasen)
Degree of politeness: Polite
問題ございません (mondai gozaimasen) is the formal and very polite way to say “no problem” in Japanese. The word 問題 (mondai) means “problem,” and ございません (gozaimasen) is the extremely polite negative form of ある (aru), meaning “does not exist.” Together, the phrase literally translates to “there is no problem” and is commonly used in formal situations, such as when speaking with clients, customers, or your boss. This makes it the safest choice when you want to sound respectful and professional.
However, there’s a catch: using it can sometimes make you sound overly stiff or formal. Unless you’re in a very formal context like customer service, 問題はありません (mondai wa arimasen) is usually sufficient.
4. 大丈夫 (Daijoubu)
If you watch anime, you have probably heard this phrase over a thousand times. 大丈夫 (daijoubu) means “It’s okay” or “It’s not a problem” as a response to someone else. For example, you can use it when a waiter offers water at a restaurant, and you want to reject them politely. Adding です desu to the end makes 大丈夫 more formal.
お水はいかがでしょうか。 Omizu wa ikaga deshouka? Would you like (a glass of) water?
だいじょうぶです！ Daijoubu desu! It’s alright!
5. 構わない (Kamawanai)
Degree of politeness: Casual or formal
構わない (kamawanai) is also another casual way to express no problem in Japanese. It comes from the verb 構う (kamau), which means “to mind,” “to care about,” or “to be concerned with.”
If you conjugate kamau into a negative form, the phrase translates to “It doesn’t matter”. 構わない is mainly used in informal conversations, while かまわない is used in informal situations.
You can also add the Japanese adverb ぜんぜん or まったくto tell the listener that it is not a problem at all.
窓を閉めてもいいですか。 Mado o shimetemo ii desu ka. Can I open the window?
全然構いませんよ。 Zenzen kamaimasen yo. It doesn’t matter at all.
To make it more formal, you can also use かまいません (kamaimasen), which is the polite version of 構わない (kamawanai) and is appropriate in more respectful or professional situations.
The difference between 問題ない (mondai nai) and 構わない (kamawanai) is in their focus: 問題ない emphasizes that the situation is fine or problem-free, while 構わない emphasizes your personal attitude, meaning “I don’t mind” or “it’s okay with me.” In other words, 構わない highlights more of the speaker’s personal perspective, while 問題ない highlights the situation.
6. 全然いいよ (Zenzen ii yo)
Degree of politeness: Casual
ぜんぜん is used to emphasize that something is not at all. Usually, we associate it with negative expressions, but in this case, 全然いいよ (zenzen ii yo) bbecomes casual phrase that means “It’s totally fine” or “No problem at all.”
It is entirely acceptable to use it for affirmative words like いいよ (ii yo). This helps make a conversation more casual.
ごめんね。財布を忘れた。本当に頼んでくれた。 Gomen ne. Saifu wo wasureta. Hontou ni tanonde kureta. I’m sorry. I forgot my wallet. You really helped me.
ぜんぜんいいよ。 Zenzen ii yo. No problem.
7. オーケー (Ookee)
Degree of politeness: Casual
It’s a Japanese loanword from the English “Okay.” When you’re reminded to do something, you can reply by saying “hai” (はい), which is the most basic way to give affirmation or オーケー. Be careful, though. While it’s completely okay to use the word to your boss in English, saying “オーケーです!” sounds informal. Sure, it sounds upbeat and cheerful, but use it with caution.
Often, it is written simply as OK. You’ll find the word everywhere: in advertisements, takeout corners, and menus.
テイクアウト、イートインどちらでもOK! Teiku auto, iito in dochira de mo oke! Take out or eat-in, either is okay!
8. 気にしないで (Ki ni shinaide)
Degree of politeness: Casual
It’s the informal form of 気にしないでください.気にしないでください breaks down like this:
気 means “mind” or “feeling.” に is a particle showing the target of an action, so here it’s like “about” or “toward.” しないで is the negative form of する (“to do”) combined with で to make it a request not to do something. ください means “please,” making the whole phrase polite.
Altogether, it literally means “Please don’t mind (it)” or “Don’t worry about it.” It’s used to reassure someone or tell them not to be concerned, commonly spoken among friends, family, or people of the same social level. This phrase assures someone that what you did was not a problem and that they do not have to concern themselves with it. Adding ね (ne) at the end makes it extra casual.
落としちゃってすみませんでした！ Otoshichatte sumimasen deshita! I’m sorry that I dropped it!
いいよ。気にしないで。 Iie. Ki ni shinaide. It’s okay. Please don’t worry about it.
9. いえいえ (Ieie)
Degree of politeness: Casual
This phrase literally translates to “No, no.” Japanese people are known for their humility. Rather than accepting a compliment or thank you, they will instead deny it as a way to be polite. When you say “You’re welcome”, it can appear as if you’re self-congratulating. We use いえいえ to let them know that they don’t need to thank us.
田中先生のおかげで、テストに合格しました。ありがとうございました！ Tanaka-sensei no okage de, tesuto ni goukaku shimashita. Arigatou gozaimashita! Because of Tanaka-sensei, I passed the test. Thank you!
いえいえ。 Ie ie. Not at all!
10. ドンマイ (Donmai)
Degree of politeness: Casual
This is Japanese slang that you may have heard often in sports anime. ドンマイ is actually a loanword taken from the English “Don’t mind”.
Japanese often adapts foreign phrases in a way that makes them shorter and easier to say, dropping auxiliary parts like “do” or “-ing.” So instead of literally saying “don’t mind do” (donmaindo), it became just どんまい, which is catchy, natural, and easy to use in casual speech.
Characters will use it to motivate someone when they feel down or make mistakes on behalf of their team. For example, when your teammate misses a throw at a basketball match or kicks a ball out, you will say, “ドンマイ” to lift their spirit up.
ドンマイ is actually a loanword taken from the English “Don’t mind”.
やばい！ ピッチャーがホームランを打たれた！ Yabai! Pitchaa ga hoomu ran o utareta! Oh no! The pitcher hit home run!
ドンマイ！ Donmai! Don’t mind it!
11. いいよ (Ii Yo)
Degree of politeness: Casual
いいよ is the informal version of いいですよ (ii desu yo), which was explained above in the “Polite Words” section. The word いい is versatile and can mean “good” or “fine.” In this case, it conveys the meaning “that’s fine” or “go ahead.”
It’s often used in response to questions asking for permission or confirmation, and in this context, it can be understood as “sure” or “no problem.”
ペン、借りてもいい？ Pen, karite mo ii? Can I borrow your pen?
うん、いいよ。 Un, ii yo. Yes, no problem!
Fun fact: In real spoken Japanese, people can say いいですね (ii desu ne), but often they say it so quickly in casual conversation that it sounds like いいすね (iisu ne). This is an intentional shortening to make the expression feel more relaxed and natural.
12. いいとも (Ii tomo)
Degree of politeness: Casual
いいとも is used to express positive affirmation. However, this term is strictly casual, and you will never see it paired with です (desu) or used in formal situations.
That said, いいとも is not very commonly used by native Japanese speakers compared to いいよ (ii yo), explained above. Essentially, いいとも is a casual way of saying いいです (ii desu yo) when you agree with someone’s suggestion or when granting permission.
今夜、一緒に映画に行かない？ Kon’ya, issho ni eiga ni ikanai? Do you want to go to a movie tonight?”
いいとも！ Iitomo! Sounds good!
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FAQs
How to say "No Problem" in Japanese?
Mondai nai is the literal way to say “No problem.” 問題 (もんだい) means ‘problem’ and ない means ‘there is not’. Do note that ない is spoken in casual speech and it should be replaced by ありません (arimasen) to be used in formal situations.
How do you say “no problem” in Japanese?
A common phrase is 大丈夫です (daijoubu desu), which literally means “It’s okay” or “No problem.”
When should I use 大丈夫です (daijoubu desu)?
Use it to reassure someone that something is fine or to respond politely when someone thanks you.
Are there casual ways to say “no problem”?
Yes, you can say 大丈夫 (daijoubu) with friends or 問題ない (mondai nai) to mean “no issue.”
Are there other expressions similar to “no problem”?
You can also use 構いません (kamai masen) for “It doesn’t matter” or 気にしないで (ki ni shinaide) for “Don’t worry about it.”
Interested in learning more Japanese content online? You might like:
Japan is a country where the changing seasons are celebrated, from the blooming cherry blossoms in spring to the fiery bursts of autumn leaves. Being able to talk about the weather and describe seasonal conditions is a useful skill for anyone learning Japanese, and it makes everyday conversation much more natural. So, how do you say spring, summer, fall, and winter in Japanese?
In Japan, the four seasons are together called 春夏秋冬 (shunkashuutou). Each season has its own weather, vibes, and traditions, so learning about them might help you enjoy Japan all year round!
In this guide, we will explore Japan’s four main seasons — spring, summer, autumn, and winter — as well as some of the unique “microseasons” the Japanese recognize. You’ll also learn useful vocabulary for each season, so you can describe the weather, nature, and seasonal events like a local.
What is Season in Japanese?
In Japan, the word for season is 季節 (kisetsu), which combines 季 (ki) meaning “season” or “period” and 節 (setsu) meaning “section” or “period.” When talking specifically about the four seasons, the term 春夏秋冬 (shunkashuutou) is used. This expression literally strings together the kanji for spring, summer, autumn, and winter, but they are read using their onyomi (Chinese-derived) readings rather than their native Japanese (kunyomi) readings.
While kisetsu refers to a season in general, shunkashuutou emphasizes the complete cycle of all four seasons and the changes they bring throughout the year.
We’ve created a separate blog about how to describe the weather and seasonal conditions in Japanese, but here are a few key vocabulary words you might want to know!
Japanese
Furigana
Romaji
English Meaning
旬
しゅん
Shun
Peak season
季節感
きせつかん
Kisetsukan
Sense of the season
梅雨
つゆ / ばいう
Tsuyu/baiu
Rainy season
You might notice the word 旬 (shun). If you’ve ever been to a fancy restaurant and seen a menu item labeled “seasonal appetizer,” you might come across this word in Japanese restaurants as well. It literally means “season” in the sense of something being at its peak or best time.
この魚は今が旬です。 Kono sakana wa ima ga shun desu. This fish is in season now.
How to Say Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter in Japanese
Spring (春)
Furigana: はる
Reading: Haru
Arguably the most famous season in Japan, spring, or 春 (haru), brings cherry blossoms and pleasant, crisp weather as the country warms after the long, cold winter. In many ways, spring in Japan symbolizes new beginnings. April, for example, marks the start of a new fiscal year for many companies and the beginning of the school term, as well as the time when many graduation ceremonies take place.
Spring generally lasts from late March to May with temperatures ranging from 4 to 18 °C. One of the most famous activities during spring is cherry blossom viewing, called 花見 (hanami). The sakura blossoms peak over a roughly two-week period, first in warmer regions like Okinawa, then in areas like Kyushu, gradually moving north to regions like Hokkaido. You will find people bring picnic mats and gather in public parks to enjoy the blossoms, food, and company of friends and family.
Check out some basic spring-related vocabulary!
Kanji
Furigana
Romaji
English Meaning
春
はる
haru
Spring
桜
さくら
sakura
Cherry blossom
花吹雪
はなふくび
hanafukubi
“Flower blizzard”
花見
はなみ
hanami
Cherry blossom viewing
新学期
しんがっき
shingakki
New school term
新年度
しんねんど
shinnendo
New fiscal year
卒業
そつぎょう
sotsugyou
Graduation
入学
にゅうがく
nyuugaku
School entrance / enrollment
春風
はるかぜ
harukaze
Spring breeze
花粉症
かふんしょう
kafunshou
Hay fever / pollen allergy
若葉
わかば
wakaba
Fresh young leaves
Summer (夏)
Furigana:なつ
Reading: Natsu
Summer, or 夏 (natsu), in Japan is a vibrant season of lively festivals, or 夏祭り (natsu matsuri), trips to the beach, and お盆 (Obon), Japan’s traditional holiday honoring ancestors.
Famous summer festivals in Tokyo include the 神田祭 (Kanda Matsuri), but you can also find other regional matsuri across Japan. During this time, people often wear yukata, a lighter, more breathable version of the kimono, while strolling through festival streets, sampling Japanese street food like yakisoba (stir-fried noodles), and enjoying treats like chocolate-covered bananas.
Summer in Japan falls between June to mid-September, with temperatures falling within a range of 21 to 32 °C. The season is typically hot and humid, so it’s important to stay cool and hydrated. There is even a special Japanese word for this intensity, called 蒸し暑い (mushiatsui), which literally means “steaming hot.” The buzzing of male cicadas, or 蝉 (semi), is often associated with the sounds of summer.
Autumn, or 秋 (aki), in Japan falls within the months of mid-November to early December, and this is the season when you get to see the trees turn vivid hues of red, orange, and yellow. If spring in Japan is famous for sakura (cherry blossoms), then autumn is celebrated for 紅葉 (momiji), or autumn leaves.
During this time, the unbearable heat and humidity of the Japanese summer finally give way to cooler, more comfortable weather, making autumn one of the most pleasant seasons in Japan. In Tokyo, the average weather ranges from 15 – 22°C.
The act of viewing autumn leaves is called 紅葉狩り (momijigari). When planning a trip to Japan, it’s good to remember that the autumn foliage, which attracts thousands of travelers every year, comes in two waves: the red hues of maple leaves and the bright yellow of ginkgo trees.
You can check out our detailed guide on Japanese autumn vocabulary, but here’s a quick overview of some basic words.
Kanji
Furigana
Romaji
English Meaning
秋
あき
aki
Autumn
紅葉
もみじ
momiji
Autumn leaves
紅葉狩り
もみじがり
momijigari
Autumn leaf viewing
銀杏
いちょう
Ginkgo tree/leaves
Ginkgo tree / leaves
秋風
あきかぜ
akikaze
Autumn breeze
Winter (冬)
Furigana: ふゆ
Reading: Fuyu
Winter, or 冬 (fuyu), in Japan, generally lasts from December to February with temperatures ranging from -1 to 7 °C (varies in different parts of Japan). Winter is the time of the year when you get to see pools of snow or 雪 (yuki).
Some parts of Japan don’t see much snow. Winter in Tokyo is generally mild, and while it can get cold, snow is relatively rare compared to northern regions. If you want guaranteed snowfall, areas like Hokkaido or mountainous regions such as Nagano are much more reliable. (Check out our guide on the best winter towns in Japan for that!)
Some areas of Japan are particularly famous for their high-quality snow, often described as powder-like and smooth, making them ideal for skiing and snowboarding. Regions like Hokkaido, Niigata, and Nagano receive heavy, dry snowfall in winter, creating perfect conditions for winter sports. Resorts in these areas attract skiers and snowboarders from all over the world.
Beyond snow, winter in Japan offers a perfect escape from city life. Instead of staying in Tokyo, consider day trips to Niseko or Hokkaido to enjoy scenic mountain views, relaxing hot springs (onsen), and cozy accommodations.
Kanji
Furigana
Romaji
English Meaning
冬
ふゆ
fuyu
Winter
雪
ゆき
yuki
Snow
吹雪
ふぶき
fubuki
Blizzard
寒い
さむい
samui
Cold (weather)
氷
こおり
koori
Ice
暖房
だんぼう
danbou
Heater / Heating
雪だるま
ゆきだるま
yukidaruma
Snowman
Japan’s “Other Seasons”: Tsuyu
While Japan officially has four seasons — 春 (haru), 夏 (natsu), 秋 (aki), 冬 (fuyu) — it also has a microseason called tsuyu (梅雨), the rainy season. It typically occurs in early summer, usually from early June to mid-July, depending on the region. This period is marked by continuous rain and high humidity, which can make the weather feel hotter than it actually is. People often carry umbrellas during this time, as sudden bursts of rain and heavy downpours are common, sometimes followed by clear skies as if nothing happened. Some coastal areas may also experience typhoons later in the season.
While the rainy season can be gloomy, it is also when hydrangeas (紫陽花, ajisai) bloom beautifully across Japan.
Talking About Seasons in Japan
Now that you’ve learned the basics and know how to say spring, summer, fall, and winter in Japanese, it’s time to put them into practice! Let’s go through some common phrases and questions you’ll often hear talking about the seasons in Japan.
今は春ですね。桜の花が咲き始めて、とてもきれいです。 Ima wa haru desu ne. Sakura no hana ga saki hajimete, totemo kirei desu. It’s spring now. The cherry blossoms are starting to bloom, and it’s very beautiful.
春は暖かいです。 Haru wa atatakai desu. Spring is warm.
桜が咲き始めました。 Sakura ga saki hajimemashita. The cherry blossoms have started to bloom.
梅雨の季節は湿気が多く、毎日雨が降り続くので、外出する時は傘が欠かせません。 Tsuyu no kisetsu wa shikke ga ōku, mainichi ame ga furitsuzuku node, gaishutsu suru toki wa kasa ga kakasemasen. During the rainy season, the humidity is high and it rains every day, so you can’t go out without an umbrella.
暑い！日焼け止めを塗ってください。 Atsui! Hiyakedome o nutte kudasai. It’s hot! Wear sunblock to avoid sunburn!
秋の紅葉はとてもきれいです。 Aki no kouyou wa totemo kirei desu. The autumn leaves are very beautiful.
冬は北海道や長野で雪がたくさん降ります。 Fuyu wa Hokkaidō ya Nagano de yuki ga takusan furimasu. In winter, a lot of snow falls in Hokkaido and Nagano.
Conclusion: Learn to Talk About the Season (and Beyond!) in Japanese with Lessons at Coto Academy
Now that you’ve learned the basics of talking about the season in Japanese, why stop there? There are plenty of other essential skills to master, like introducing yourself or discussing a specific topic in conversation.
If you want to build confidence and start speaking Japanese, consider joining conversation-focused Japanese lessons at Coto Academy. As a top-rated school with campuses in Tokyo and Yokohama, we offer fun and flexible lessons designed around practical, everyday conversation. You’ll learn Japanese that you can use immediately outside the classroom.
We offer intensive Japanese courses as well as part-time options, so whether you want to immerse yourself fully or fit lessons into a busy schedule, there’s something for you. Start your journey to speaking Japanese confidently today!
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FAQ
What are the four seasons in Japanese?
There are four seasons in Japanese: 春 (はる, haru) is spring, 夏 (なつ, natsu) is summer, 秋 (あき, aki) is autumn, and 冬 (ふゆ, fuyu) is winter.
How many seasons does Japan have?
Japan has four seasons. Spring is called 春 (haru), summer is 夏 (natsu), autumn is 秋 (aki), and winter is 冬 (fuyu).
What is “season” in Japanese?
The word for season in Japanese is 季節 (きせつ, kisetsu).
What is spring in Japanese?
Spring in Japanese is 春 (はる, haru). It is typically from March to May, and it is famous for cherry blossoms (桜, さくら, sakura) blooming.
What started as a local custom at a village in Hyogo Prefecture, Respect for the Aged Day (Keiro no Hi, 敬老の日) later became a nationwide celebration dedicated to our elders and their countless contributions to society.
Originally called ‘Old Folks Day’, it became a national holiday in 1966, and it occurs on the third Monday of every September. It’s a relatively new holiday compared to many other national ones, and it’s one of the few dedicated to a specific age group, much like Children’s Day in May, meant to celebrate blossoming youth in Japan. In September, when the dates line up just right, Respect for the Aged Day often falls close to the Autumn Equinox, creating a stretch of consecutive holidays known as Silver Week.
So, what is Respect for the Aged Day really about, and how can you join in celebrating Japan’s seniors? Let’s dive in!
Who Does Keiro no Hi Celebrate?
As the name suggests, Respect for the Aged Day is a national Japanese holiday that serves as a time to pause and reflect on how the older generations have paved the way for us. Its Japanese name, 敬老の日 (Keirou no Hi), literally means “day to respect the elderly.” The name itself is made up of three kanji: 敬 (kei), meaning respect and honor; 老 (rou), representing the elderly or aged; and 日 (hi), meaning day.
For those of us who weren’t born and raised in Japan, the cultural differences between Japan and our home country can be many. One thing most of us have probably noticed, though, is Japan’s respect for its elders.
Japan and Palau are the only countries in the world to have national holidays dedicated to the elderly, but the symbolism of this day is relevant to everyone. Most of us, at some point in our lives, will move away from home, and as a result, we see less and less of our parents and grandparents.
There’s no official “starting age” for Keiro no Hi, but these days, turning 60 is generally seen as a bit too young for celebration. Traditionally, someone is considered a silver-haired honoree if they meet at least one of a few milestones: reaching 70 or 80 years of age, having at least one grandchild, or having fully retired from work.
This holiday is a welcome reminder to treasure the older population; to listen to them, learn from them, and support them as much as possible. If you haven’t seen your elderly relatives in a while, simply call them out for lunch and go, “Hisashiburi desu“! It may seem like a small act, but a little does go a long way!
When is Respect for the Aged Day This Year?
Respect for the Aged Day is observed annually on the third Monday of September in Japan, so the exact date varies year by year. Take a look at the table below for the dates from 2025 to 2035!
Year
Date
Day
2025
September 15
Monday
2026
September 21
Monday
2027
September 20
Monday
2028
September 18
Monday
2029
September 17
Monday
2030
September 16
Monday
2031
September 15
Monday
2032
September 20
Monday
2033
September 19
Monday
2034
September 18
Monday
2035
September 17
Monday
Why Respect of the Aged Day is Important in Japan
Respect for the Aged Day in Japan is important because it emphasizes respect for older people and serves as a reminder to treasure the wisdom and contributions of the older generation
Japanese society itself really values seniority. How frequently are you asked for your age in Japan? Have you ever been asked your age by a stranger? In other countries, asking someone how old they are could be quite rude. But in Japan, this isn’t meant to offend us. In fact, it is far from it. In most cases, Japanese people ask our age not out of curiosity, but to determine the appropriate level of politeness when speaking to us.
Japanese has three main levels of speech: casual, polite, and honorific. When speaking to someone older, it’s customary to use keigo, the honorific form of the language, to show respect. Age is so important in Japanese society that even being just a year older can make someone your senpai, a term denoting seniority and experience.
This culture, trickled down to its linguistic element — calling someone senpai and using honorific language — reflects the respect Japanese people place on elders and social status in Japan.
Origin of Keiro no Hi
As a national holiday in Japan, Keiro no Hi has a relatively short history. It was originally known as 年寄りの日, or Toshiyori no Hi, which translates to Elderly People’s Day. While it is a descriptive name, it lacked the warmth and respect the holiday intended to convey.
Respect of the Aged Day began locally in Taka Town in Hyogo Prefecture. Back then, it was called Nomaani-mura (“mura” means village) and turned into Yachiyo-cho (town), to Taka-cho, in 1947, just after the end of World War II. The town’s mayor, Masao Kadowaki, encourages people should look up to their elders, specifically those aged 55 and older, for guidance and wisdom. This was also done to celebrate and honor their resilience in surviving two of the most significant tragedies of the 20th century: the worldwide Great Depression and the hardships of World War II.
The holiday gradually gained recognition nationwide, and in 1966, it was renamed Keiro no Hi and officially established as a national holiday. Each year, Japanese media highlight the elderly population, featuring stories about their lives and celebrating the oldest citizens in the country.
How has Keiro no Hi Changed Since It Started?
Respect for the Aged Day was originally observed annually on September 15. However, since that date doesn’t always fall on a weekday, the Japanese government moved the holiday in 2003 under the Happy Monday System to create a three-day weekend. Now, Respect for the Aged Day is celebrated on the third Monday of September, regardless of the actual date, giving people a consistent long weekend to honor the elderly.
After Respect for the Aged Day became more popular, the government decided to give elders a commemorative gift. Originally, in 1963, anyone who turned 100 years old in the previous 12 months received a solid silver sake cup, 10.5 cm in diameter. While this may have seemed extravagant to some, only 153 people qualified for the gift at the time.
Fast forward over 50 years, and Japan now has the largest percentage of centenarians in the world. By 2022, the number of centenarians had grown to more than 90,000, and this trend shows no signs of slowing down. Japan is known for having one of the longest life expectancies in the world, but it also has an aging population, which means the number of elderly people continues to rise. Those aged 65 and above now make up 30% of the population, and by 2055, this figure is expected to reach 40%.
What was once a relatively exclusive gift became much more costly for the government. In 2009, to reduce expenses, the diameter of the cups was decreased from 10.5 cm to 9 cm. Later, in 2016, the material was changed from solid silver to silver-plated nickel alloy.
Jumping forward to over 50 years later, Japan now has the largest percentage of centenarians on the planet – around 30,000. So, rightly or wrongly, in 2016, the government decided to reduce costs by replacing the traditional cups with silver-plated ones.
How is Respect for the Aged Day Celebrated?
There are a few traditional ways to mark this day. First and foremost, with the three-day weekend now available, many people are able to return home to celebrate with their loved ones. Secondly, volunteers in some neighbourhoods help to produce and distribute free bento lunchboxes to older citizens.
Smaller communities also provide various keirokai shows, where teenagers and children perform dances and songs for the elderly. Lastly, the Japanese media take this opportunity to honour our older citizens by featuring special programmes dedicated to them.
There are many other traditions surrounding Respect for the Aged Day, which often vary by community. Individual prefectures across Japan have added their own customs beyond the national 100-year-old silver cup gift. For example, in Kagoshima Prefecture, the city government gives new centenarians a 50,000 yen gift. In a city in Chiba Prefecture, the gift is 30,000 yen, while Tobishima Village in Aichi Prefecture goes even further, offering a 1 million yen gift!
How You Can Commemorate the Day in Japan
Because Respect for the Aged Day is a relatively modern holiday, there are no strict rules for how it should be celebrated. Since it always falls on a Monday, it gives most people a long weekend to organize get-togethers with family and relatives. Here are a few things you can do during Respect for the Aged Day in Japan.
1. Connect with your elders directly
If you’re unable to spend time together in person, then a simple call, letter, or message can go a long way – especially if they aren’t expecting it.
2. Small acts of kindness are contagious
You can be especially kind to older people on this day by offering to carry bags (especially up steps!), holding open doors, and offering your seat on the train or bus.
3. Volunteer
Ask your local community centre if they are running any activities for residents and if you can volunteer. While volunteering in Japan can be challenging due to cultural and language barriers, there are often bilingual staff available to help.
4. Watch one of the Japanese feature programmes about Japan’s older population.
Annually, Japanese media take the opportunity to feature the elderly, reporting on the population and highlighting the oldest people in the country. What better way to learn from our elders? As Mahatma Gandhi said, “Live as if you were to die tomorrow, learn as if you were to live forever.” Our elders possess a wealth of knowledge, and many are more than willing to share it. Why not ask about their experiences with something that matters to you?
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FAQ
What is Respect for the Aged Day?
Respect for the Aged Day (Keiro no Hi) is a Japanese national holiday dedicated to honoring elderly citizens and celebrating their contributions to family, community, and society.
When is Respect for the Aged Day celebrated?
It is observed annually on the third Monday of September, giving people a long weekend to celebrate.
How did Respect for the Aged Day start?
The holiday began as a local celebration called Toshiyori no Hi in 1947 in Taka Town, Hyogo Prefecture. It became a national holiday in 1966 and was renamed Keiro no Hi.
Who is celebrated on this day?
There’s no strict age requirement, but generally, elders who are 70 or 80 years old, have grandchildren, or have fully retired are honored.
How is it celebrated?
Celebrations vary widely. Families often organize get-togethers, give gifts, or spend quality time with elderly relatives. Communities may host events to honor senior citizens.
Is there a special government recognition during Respect of the Aged Day?
Yes! Citizens who reach 100 years old are traditionally honored with a commemorative silver sake cup and a congratulatory letter from the Prime Minister.
Want to learn more about the Japanese national holidays? Read about:
Ready to learn some Japanese verbs, or どうし (動詞)? While 100 words seem like a lot, there are 898 Pokémon species combined. If you think about it, our list is less than one-tenth of them. How many of them do you know, and how often will you use them in daily Japanese conversations (the verbs, not the Pokémon)?
Sure, the number of words you know says a lot about your Japanese language level. For example, if you know 500 to 1,000 basic Japanese words, you’re unofficially a beginner. Bump it up to 2,000 words, and you can pat yourself on the back because then you’re a full-fledged intermediate. Advanced learner? That’s roughly 8,000 words.
Verbs are the backbone of any language, and Japanese is no exception. Now, let’s take a look at some essential beginner Japanese verbs that appear in almost every conversation!
How to Learn Japanese Verbs
If there’s one thing more important than remembering new Japanese vocabulary, it’s learning the right words. This is why learning basic Japanese verbs shouldn’t just be basic — it should be essential. After getting familiar with the important grammar patterns, what you need to do next is implement them and broaden your mental vocabulary library.
Before we get to the point, we want to make sure that you already have a strong foundation for Japanese verbs. This will be a simple and comprehensive cheat sheet, where we won’t be diving into verb modifications and grammar rules. For that, check out our Japanese verb guide.
1. Japanese Verbs vs English Verbs
Let’s break down the basic sentence structure in the English language: subject, followed by a verb, and an object. For example, “I (subject) buy (verb) a book (object).” In all scenarios, a verb must precede the object to make the phrase grammatically accepted.
In Japanese, the main components are the same, but the order is different — the object goes before the verb.
Subject
Object
Verb
私は watashi ha
ご飯を gohan o
食べる taberu
This grammar rule might cause a lot of beginner learners a spin on their heads (as most language follows the same sentence structure as English), but it gets easier with practice — and, conveniently, with a simple Japanese language hack, too.
Japanese speakers like to keep things short and concise. Unlike English, the Japanese language only needs at least one verb to make a complete sentence. If both the subject and object are obvious, omitting them is valid.
A: 田中さん、ご飯もう食べている？ A: Tanaka-san, gohan mou tabete iru? A: Tanaka-san, have you eaten your meal?
B: 僕もう食べた。 B: Tabeta. B: I have.
In the example above, the context is clear: the object is “meal” (ごはん also means “rice”) and the subject is the person being questioned. This shortcut is partly why you’ll notice a slight glitch in Japanese-to-English translations, especially when you don’t provide all the necessary elements most languages require.
2. Japanese Has No Singular or Plural Verbs
In other ways, too, the Japanese language is simple. Singular and plural verbs don’t exist, and regardless of whether it’s one, or two — or a hundred — the verb stays the same. To prove our point, take a look at two examples.
レストランで一人のお客様は食べている。 Resutoran de hitori no okyakusama ha tabete iru. One person is eating at the restaurant.
レストランで10人のお客様は食べている。 Resutoran de juunin no okyakusama ha tabete iru. 10 people are eating at the restaurant.
In English, quantifiers affect the verb. Singular nouns use is, while plural nouns use are. When the verb matches the subject, that’s called subject-verb agreement. There are also languages that are gendered, like Spanish, French, and Arabic. In Japanese, it doesn’t matter.
3. Japanese Verb Conjugations
Japanese verbs are split into three groups: Ru-verbs, U-verbs, and irregular verbs. Which of these categories an action word belongs to affects its conjugation.
Conjugation Form
Ru-verb
U-verb
Irregular verb
Dictionary form
みる (miru)
飲む (nomu)
くる (kuru)
Past Dictionary form
みた (mita)
飲んだ (nonda)
きた (kita)
Negative Dictionary form
みない (minai)
飲まない (nomanai)
こない (konai)
Present (ます)
みます (mimasu)
飲みます (nomimasu)
きます (ikimasu)
Present negative
みません (mimasen)
飲みません (nomimasen)
きません (ikimasen)
Past affirmative
みました (mimashita)
飲みました (nomimashita)
きました (kimashita)
Past negative
みませんでした (mimasendeshita)
飲みませんでした (nomimasendeshita)
きませんでした (kimasendeshita)
You may have noticed that most verbs in Japanese follow general logic. Ru-verbs and u-verbs conjugate pretty predictably, where negative conjugations for みる (miru) みない (minai), and for のむ (nomu) are のまない (nomanai). However, for irregular verbs, they seem to refuse to follow the same conjugation logic where the negative form of くる is こない.
One more thing: the table above represents four of the most basic conjugations that don’t include verb-ing (such as eating, drinking, walking). For this, you will need to change the word into its て-form — how it’s modified, again, depends on the type of verb it is.
Types of Japanese Verbs
For this specific guide, instead of grouping them based on the three types listed above, we’ll be categorizing the words based on social contexts, such as when and where they are usually used. We like to think it’s the best way to remember them. Plus, it’s also simpler and more effective — just remember not to get confused between Ru-verbs and U-verbs; transitive and intransitive verbs.
Common Japanese Verbs for Mental Situations and Emotions
Let’s start with words that you can use to express different emotions or different mental situations such as to cry, to be happy, or to know. These words are essentially intangible or not involved with physical actions.
Kanji
Hiragana
Romaji
English
驚く
おどろく
odoroku
to be surprised
泣く
なく
naku
cry
怒る
おこる
okoru
get angry
笑う
わらう
warau
laugh
怖がる
こわがる
kowagaru
fear
惚れる
ほれる
horeru
fall in love
慌てる
あわてる
awateru
panic, be flustered
慰める
なぐさめる
nagusameru
comfort, console
思う
おもう
omou
think
考える
かんがえる
kangaeru
consider
褒める
ほめる
homeru
praise
支える
ささえる
sasaeru
support
忘れる
わすれる
wasureru
forget
覚える
おぼえる
oboeru
remember, learn
疲れる
つかれる
tsukareru
get tired
信じる
しんじる
shinjiru
to believe
要る
いれる
iru
to need
間違える
まちがえる
machigaeru
make a mistake
知る
しる
shiru
to know
苦しむ
くるしむ
kurushimu
suffer
痛む
いたむ
itamu
become hurt, damaged
可愛がる
かわいがる
kawaigaru
love, be affectionate
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Japanese Verbs Commonly Used For Daily Activities at Home
Learn the words for doing everyday activities in your home or for your daily routines. These verbs are essential in describing what you do in your daily life.
Now to get into the action! These verbs describe physical actions such as running and swimming, or going and coming to a place. You will inevitably use these words in daily conversation, so here’s a list to get started:
Kanji
Hiragana
Romaji
English
歩く
あるく
aruku
walk
走る
はしる
hashiru
run
登る
のぼる
noboru
climb
泳ぐ
およぐ
oyogu
swim
座る
すわる
suwaru
sit
飛ぶ
とぶ
tobu
to fly
来る
くる
kuru*
to come
行く
いく
iku
to go
通う
かよう
kayou
commute
踊る
おどる
odoru
dance
抱く
だく
daku
embrace, hug
会う
あう
au
meet
働く
はたらく
hataraku
to work
書く
かく
kaku
to write
消す
けす
kesu
to erase
聞く
きく
kiku
to listen
待つ
まつ
matsu
to wait
動く
うごく
ugoku
to move
次ぐ
つぐ
tsugu
be next
見る
みる
miru
to see
見せる
みせる
miseru
to show
起きる
おきる
okiru
to get up
降りる
おりる
oriru
to get off
逃げる
にげる
nigeru
run away, escape
倒れる
たおれる
taoreru
fall down, collapse
急ぐ
いそぐ
isogu
to hurry
あげる
ageru
give
もらう
morau
receive
終わる
おわる
owaru
to finish
買う
かう
kau
to buy
返す
かえす
kaesu
to return
代わる
かわる
kawaru
switch
押す
おす
osu
to push
引く
ひく
hiku
to pull
“Kuru” (来る, “to come”) is an irregular verb because it does not follow the standard conjugation patterns of Godan (U-verbs) or Ichidan (Ru-verbs). Its stem changes unpredictably across forms—for example, the negative is konai instead of kuranai, and the volitional is koyou instead of kurou. These irregular stem changes are why it must be memorized separately.
Verbs are one part of the equation, but in order to make sentences, you will need to string them together with a grammar function unique to Japanese called particles.
Japanese Verbs for Verbal Expressions
Verbs for verbal actions, such as to speak, to sing, or to ask, are essential to know how to say things like what language you speak or what song you want to sing. So, let’s get started on some key terms with this short, non-exhaustive list:
Kanji
Hiragana
Romaji
English
話す
はなす
hanasu
to speak
言う
いう
iu
say
歌う
うたう
utau
sing
話す
しゃべる
shaberu
to talk; to chat
答える
こたえる
kotaeru
answer
教える
おしえる
oshieru
teach, show
聞く
きく
kiku
to ask
頼む
たのむ
tanomu
to ask (favor)
呼ぶ
よぶ
yobu
to call
Irregular Japanese Verbs
Japanese verb conjugation is very regular, as is usual for an agglutinative language, but there are a number of exceptions. The best-known irregular verbs are the common verbs する suru “do” and 来る kuru “come”, sometimes categorized as the two Group 3 verbs
Kanji
Hiragana
Romaji
English
する
suru
to do
電話する
でんわする
denwa suru
to call
勉強する
べんきょうする
benkyou suru
to study
宿題する
しゅくだいする
shukudai suru
to do homework
復習する
ふくしゅうする
fukushuu suru
to review
料理する
りょうりする
ryouri suru
cook
練習する
れんしゅうする
renshuu suru
practice
結婚する
けっこんする
kekkon suru
get married
掃除する
そうじする
souji suru
to clean
散歩する
さんぽする
sanpo suru
to take a stroll
What’s Next After Learning Japanese Verbs?
Solely memorizing these essential words isn’t enough. Applying them to simple situations is one thing, but speaking Japanese goes beyond present, past, and negative tenses. For example, the Japanese language makes far more use of passive verbs than English (head to our guide on Japanese passive voice). Besides that, there will also come a time when you want to use volitional forms (“Let’s do it” in English).
For more practice on how to apply these verbs in daily conversation, consider taking our courses at Coto Academy, where our professional teachers can coach you on how to speak naturally and fluently, as well as gradually expand your vocabulary. We currently offer classes in Tokyo and Yokohama, as well as online classes, with a maximum of eight students per class! Ready to learn Japanese? Check out our in-person or online classes to start ,and if you’re interested, fill out the form below!
There’s a lot to take in, but we’re guiding you one step at a time. After this, learn to make a wider range of expressions and draw in detail by learning about Japanese adjectives and adverbs.
FAQ:
What are the most common Japanese verbs for beginners?
Some of the most essential verbs include する (suru – to do), 行く (iku – to go), 見る (miru – to see), and 食べる (taberu – to eat).
How many Japanese verbs should I learn first?
Start with around 50–100 essential verbs. These cover most daily conversations and prepare you for JLPT N5 and N4.
Are Japanese verbs difficult to learn?
Japanese verbs are simpler than English in some ways (no singular/plural agreement), but conjugations can be tricky. Learning them in groups with practice helps
How can I practice Japanese verbs?
Use them in short sentences, practice with a language partner, or take conversation-focused lessons with professional teachers at Coto Academy.
Ready to go to the next chapter of our Japanese learning guide? Read our other comprehensive article on:
It’s that time of year when the leaves burst into brilliant shades of red, gold, and when it finally feels socially acceptable to sip a satsumaimo (Japanese sweet potato) latte: autumn has arrived in Japan! Known as aki (秋), this season typically stretches from September to early December, reaching its peak during momiji season, when locals and travelers flock to parks and temples to admire the breathtaking autumn foliage. (Pro tip: check the nationwide autumn leaves forecast to catch the colors at their best!)
Japan’s crisp autumn is all about scenery, traditions, and flavors. And what better way to truly embrace aki than by learning some quintessential Japanese autumn vocabulary? We’ve gathered our favorite fall words, from the rustling leaves of momiji to the aroma of roasting chestnuts, perfect for anyone looking to savor Japan’s most cozy season.
Let’s take a look and learn!
Basic Japanese Fall Words
Spring, with its iconic cherry blossoms, might be the most famous season in Japan, but fall is also the perfect time to visit. While Japan experiences four distinct seasons, autumn has been growing increasingly popular in recent years. Let’s take a look at some basic Japanese autumn vocabulary first!
Japanese
Reading / Pronunciation
Meaning
秋
aki
Autumn
秋風
akikaze
Autumn breeze
ハロウィン
harouin
Halloween
紅葉
momiji
Autumn leaves
紅葉狩り
momijigari
Autumn leaf viewing
月見
tsukimi
Moon viewing festival
七五三
Shichi go san
Shichi-Go-San Festival
ハロウィン
Harowin
Halloween
温泉
Onsen
Hot spring
収穫
Shuukaku
Harvest
新米
Shinmai
New harvest rice
登山
Tozan
Mountain hiking
ハイキング
Haikingu
Hiking
霧
Kiri
Mist/fog
9月
Kugatsu
September
10月
Juugatsu
October
11月
Juuichigatsu
November
12月
Juunigatsu
December
1. Aki (Fall)
The first word you will probably need to learn is, of course, autumn itself. Aki (秋) is the Japanese word for autumn.
日本の秋は美しいです。 Nihon no aki wa utsukushii desu. Autumn in Japan is beautiful.
2. Harowin (Halloween)
The word ハロウィン (Harouin) is a loanword borrowed directly from English. In Japan, it’s less common for people to decorate their homes with elaborate displays, fog machines, or pumpkin carvings in their front yards. That said, Halloween has become a popular celebration influenced by Western traditions.
Instead of trick-or-treating, which is rare in Japan, the holiday is mostly celebrated with costumes, themed sweets, and citywide events, especially in urban centers like Tokyo. People often gather to dress up as their favorite characters.
In recent years, however, the rise in popularity and overtourism has led to stricter regulations, particularly in Tokyo’s Shibuya district. Measures have included banning alcohol sales at nearby convenience stores, setting curfews, and increasing police patrols to maintain order during the Halloween weekend.
3. Momiji (Autumn leaves)
The word momiji (紅葉) literally means “red leaves,” and it is closely tied to autumn in Japan. While it can generally refer to autumn foliage, most of the time it specifically describes the Japanese maple tree (Acer palmatum) and its vibrant crimson leaves.
4. Momijigari (Autumn leaf viewing)
Momiji is also central to the tradition of momijigari (紅葉狩り), or “autumn leaf hunting,” where people travel to famous spots to admire the seasonal colors, much like hanami in spring.
5. Tsukimi (Moon viewing festival)
Tsukimi (お月見), or “moon viewing,” takes place in mid-September to early October, depending on the lunar calendar. During Tsukimi, people gather to admire the full harvest moon, often decorating their homes with pampas grass (susuki) and offering seasonal foods like round rice dumplings (tsukimi dango), sweet potatoes, and chestnuts.
6. Shichi-Go-San (Shichi-Go-San Festival)
Another important autumn tradition is Shichi-Go-San (七五三), literally meaning “seven-five-three,” which celebrates the growth and health of children aged three, five, and seven. Held annually on November 15th, this festival sees children dressed in traditional kimono or formal attire visiting Shinto shrines with their families. The children are blessed for good health and longevity, and they often receive chitose-ame, a long, thin candy symbolizing a long and healthy life. S
Autumn Fall Foliage Vocabulary in Japanese
While the word momiji is perhaps most synonymous with autumn in Japan — similar to how sakura is associated with spring — did you know that the very same kanji used for momiji (紅葉) is also used for another autumn phenomenon called kouyou (紅葉)?
So what’s the difference between momiji and kouyou? Kouyou is a general term for autumn foliage in Japan, while momiji specifically refers to the intensely red leaves of the Japanese maple tree. Both words share the same “red leaf” kanji (紅葉) but describe different aspects of the same seasonal phenomenon: koyou encompasses all colorful leaves, including reds, yellows, and oranges, whereas momiji highlights the vibrant crimson hues of maples.
The activity of viewing these autumn leaves is called momijigari, or “red leaf hunting.” Let us take a look at other autumn foliage-related Japanese words!
Japanese
Romaji
Meaning
紅葉
kouyou
Fall foliage
落ち葉
ochiba
Fallen leaves
落葉
rakuyou
Fallen leaves
黄葉
kouyou
Yellow leaves
赤葉
akiba
Red leaves
彩り
irodori
Coloration or hues of leaves
枯葉
kareha
Withered or dead leaves
錦秋
kinshuu
Gorgeous autumn colors (poetic)
紅葉前線
kouyou zensen
Autumn leaf front (progression of colors across Japan)
楓
kaede
Maple tree
銀杏
ichou
Ginkgo tree or leaves
イチョウ並木
ichou namiki
Ginkgo tree-lined street
山紅葉
yama momiji
Mountain autumn foliage
紅葉狩り
momijigari
Autumn leaf viewing
Autumn Food and Flavors in Japan
As Japan’s weather shifts from the unbearably hot and humid summer to the cooler, crisper days of autumn, the food lineup changes as well. Bright, tangy, and bold summer flavors give way to earthier, heartier, and more mellow tastes that usher the season in.
While pumpkin spice might be the quintessential autumn flavor in the United States, in Japan, autumn is dominated by root vegetables and ingredients like sweet potato, pumpkin, chestnut, and mushrooms, particularly the prized matsutake mushroom.
Let’s take a look at some Japanese autumn food–related vocabulary. We also have a separate guide on autumn flavors in Japan, so be sure to check that out!
Japanese
Romaji
Meaning
栗
kuri
Chestnut
さつまいも
satsumaimo
Sweet potato
かぼちゃ
kabocha
Japanese pumpkin
松茸
matsutake
Matsutake mushroom
きのこ
kinoko
Mushroom
秋刀魚
sanma
Pacific saury
柿
kaki
Persimmon
梨
nashi
Japanese pear
栗ご飯
kurigohan
Chestnut rice
きのこご飯
kinoko-gohan
Mushroom rice
もみじ饅頭
momiji manju
Maple leaf–shaped cake
栗きんとん
kuri kinton
Sweet mashed chestnuts
Describing Fall Weather in Japan
We have a separate guide on how to describe the weather in Japanese, but we can’t create a Japanese autumn vocabulary without mentioning the weather. Autumn in Japan is one of the most pleasantly mild seasons, with temperatures cool enough to wear cozy sweaters, jeans, and boots, yet not so cold as to be uncomfortable.
Japanese
Reading / Pronunciation
Meaning
天気
tenki
Weather
気温
kion
Temperature
涼しい
suzushii
Cool
晴れ
hare
Clear
曇り
kumori
Cloudy
雨
ame
Rain
霧
kiri
Mist / Fog
寒暖差
kandansa
Temperature difference (day vs night)
日が短い
hi ga mijikai
Shorter days
夜
yoru
Night
風
kaze
Wind
Talking About Autumn in Japanese
Now that you’ve learned the basics and picked up the essential Japanese autumn vocabulary, it’s time to put them into practice! Let’s go through some common phrases and questions you’ll often hear, or might want to ask yourself, when talking about fall in Japan.
今日は秋風が気持ちいいです。 Kyou wa akikaze ga kimochi ii desu. The autumn breeze feels nice today.
山の木々が赤や黄色に染まっています。 Yama no kigi ga aka ya kiiro ni somatteimasu.
The trees in the mountains are turning red and yellow.
ハロウィンではかぼちゃを飾ります。 Harouin de wa kabocha o kazari masu. During Halloween, we decorate with pumpkins.
落ち葉の上を歩くのが楽しいです。 Ochiba no ue o aruku no ga tanoshii desu. It’s fun to walk on fallen leaves.
公園で紅葉を見ました。 Kouen de kouyou o mimashita. I saw the autumn leaves at the park.
秋は日が短くなります。
Aki wa hi ga mijikaku narimasu.
In autumn, the days become shorter.
Conclusion: Learn Beyond Japanese Autumn Vocabulary and Speak Japanese with Lessons at Coto Academy
Now that you’ve learned the basics of talking about the autumn in Japanese, why stop there? There are plenty of other essential skills to master, like introducing yourself or discussing a specific topic in conversation.
If you want to build confidence and start speaking Japanese, consider joining conversation-focused Japanese lessons at Coto Academy. As a top-rated school with campuses in Tokyo and Yokohama, we offer fun and flexible lessons designed around practical, everyday conversation. You’ll learn Japanese that you can use immediately outside the classroom.
We offer intensive Japanese courses as well as part-time options, so whether you want to immerse yourself fully or fit lessons into a busy schedule, there’s something for you. Start your journey to speaking Japanese confidently today!
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FAQ
What is the Japanese word for autumn?
The Japanese word for autumn is 秋 (aki). It refers to the season of fall in general.
What is the Japanese word for autumn leaves?
Autumn leaves are called 紅葉 (momiji or kouyou). Momiji often refers to red maple leaves specifically, while kouyou can describe all colorful autumn foliage.
How do you say “autumn leaf viewing” in Japanese?
The activity of viewing autumn leaves is called 紅葉狩り (momijigari), which literally means “hunting red leaves.” It’s a popular seasonal activity similar to cherry blossom viewing (hanami) in spring.
What festivals are celebrated in Japan during autumn?
Popular autumn festivals include:
ハロウィン (Harouin): Halloween
お月見 (Tsukimi): Moon viewing festival
七五三 (Shichi-Go-San): Celebration for children aged 3, 5, and 7
What is the difference between momiji and kouyou?
Both words use the kanji 紅葉. Momiji usually refers specifically to the red leaves of maple trees, while kouyou is a broader term encompassing all autumn foliage colors, including red, yellow, and orange.
Japanese honorifics are suffixes or prefixes used to show respect or familiarity when addressing other people. While they can be tricky for beginners, they play a key role in everyday conversations. For example, the same friend might be called Tanaka-san one day and Tanaka-kun the next, depending on who they are talking with. It all depends on context, social status, and even gender. So which one should you use?
If you’ve ever wondered the meaning of -chan, -kun, -san, and –sama and how to use them, you’re in the right place. In this guide, we’ll break down the meanings of the most common Japanese honorifics and help you learn when to use each title.
Using Japanese Honorific Titles
Japanese honorific titles are suffixes that goes after the person’s name. In Japan, people call each other by their family name rather than their given names.
For example, if you come across a Japanese person and their name is Satou Kentaro, Satou being their surname, you can commonly address them as Satou-san.
Sometimes, people can add suffixes to someone’s first name based on personal preference or relationship. If you’re unsure, it’s safer to use the person’s family name with an appropriate honorific. These suffixes are used when addressing someone directly or talking about them. Note that because Japanese society values hierarchy, people of higher status sometimes omit honorifics when referring to others.
San, the most common one, could be translated as “Mr.”, “Mrs.” and “Ms.” and is gender neutral. However, you will find that Japanese honorific titles are more complicated to use than it looks and that they cannot be so easily translated.
More of a visual learner? Let’s watch Nami-sensei break down how Japanese suffixes like -san, -sama, -kun, and -chan work!
4 Basic Japanese Honorifics
1. San (さん)
San (さん) is certainly the first honorific title you will learn when studying Japanese. This suffix can be used to refer to almost anyone. It is gender neutral and works like “Mr.”, “Ms.”, “Miss”, or “Mrs.” in English, but it is much more commonly used in everyday Japanese.
The reason this is the most common and safest honorific is that it still signals respect.
The usage of san is also very broad and flexible. While it is most commonly added to people’s names, it can also be attached to occupations, roles, or even companies and shops. For example, a baker could be called by “pan-ya san.”
Usage of “san”
Example
English Equivalent
Added to a person’s name
田中さん (Tanaka-san)
Mr./Ms. Tanaka
Added to a profession or role
パン屋さん (pan-ya san)
The baker (“Mr. Bread Shop”)
Added to a shop or business
本屋さん (honya-san)
The bookstore owner
2. Sama (さま)
Sama (さま) is the a very respectful honorific title in Japanese, and the more formal version of –san. It is used in a business and clientele context.
Using -samaimplies that the guest or customer holds a superior or honored position. When addressing or referring to customers and clients, it shows respect and politeness, similar to “Sir” or “Madam” in English. For example, “okyaku-sama” (お客様) means “honored guest” or “customer,” emphasizing their importance.
The use of –sama doesn’t just stop in spoken Japanese. When you send a letter, the recipient’s name will be followed by the kanji “様”. This practice is important because Japanese culture places a strong emphasis on hierarchy and respect, especially in formal situations. It’s similar to writing “Dear Mr./Ms.” in English but with a stronger tone of respect.
Similarly, when you want to address a group of people or an audience with respect, sama is attached to “mina” (everyone). This title is also a part of several sets of phrases such as “ostukaresama.”
Example 神様にお願いをしました。 Kami-sama ni onegai o shimashita. I made a wish to the god.
Japanese deities are often called 神様 (kami-sama) — the 様 (sama) shows great respect and honor, highlighting their divine status.
3. Kun (くん)
The title –kun (君) is usually reserved for young men or juniors. If you like to watch anime or read manga, you will probably notice “kun” as they appear frequently as nicknames among the main characters!
Example: 佐藤くん、こちらの資料を見てください。 Satou-kun, kochira no shiryou o mite kudasai. Satou, please take a look at these documents.
So when exactly do Japanese people use –kun?
When addressing boys or young men, especially if you’re older or in a higher position (like teachers to male students, or bosses to male juniors).
Among male friends or classmates who are the same age or younger, to show familiarity and friendliness.
Women can use it to address a man to whom they are very close.
Occasionally, in a business context, young women can be called –kun by their superior. Once again, you should always keep in mind the implied hierarchy of a title. Kun is used by a person of a higher status towards a younger male or a child.
Tip: Nowadays, men sometimes use –kun when addressing women, but it’s very rare for women to call each other -kun. You should never use –kun when addressing your superiors, as it’s considered too casual and disrespectful.
4. Chan (ちゃん)
Chan (ちゃん) is the childish version of san. The honorific -chan originally comes from how children mispronounced -san, but over time, the change from the “s” sound to “ch” is considered cute in Japanese, so it became a common Japanese honorific.
You’ll often hear chan used in:
For young children, especially girls
Among close friends or family members, regardless of age, to show closeness
For pets or cute animals
Sometimes, as a playful or affectionate nickname for adults, often women
Like –kun, friends and lovers can also address each other with this honorific. Surprisingly, there are some strange and wonderful exceptions to –chan, as it can be used to refer to an endearing adult. Among the most famous examples, you will find Arnold Schwarzenegger, called Shuwa-chan!
Fun fact! Chan is also frequently used to refer to cute cats!
Less-common Japanese Honorifics
The four Japanese honorifics we mentioned earlier — san, kun, chan, and sama — are among the most common and widely used in everyday life, with their usage depending on the degree of formality and the relationship between speakers. However, the Japanese language has evolved over hundreds of years, and some older honorifics are now rarely used, while newer or more playful ones have emerged. Let’s take a closer look at these other Japanese honorifics to complete the list!
5. Dono (殿)
Dono (殿) is a highly formal honorific that is rarely used in modern spoken Japanese and is primarily found in formal business writing, such as letters or internal company emails. Historically, samurai and lords were addressed with the title “dono” (殿), pronounced “tono,” which conveyed great respect. Dono denoted a very high level of respect, but over time, -sama (様) has come to be considered more respectful in contemporary usage.
In workplaces, -dono is often used for colleagues within the same company, while -sama is reserved for clients or people outside the organization. One notable nuance of -dono is that it implies a degree of subordination, meaning the speaker may be slightly “above” the addressee in hierarchical terms; for example, a senior employee might address a junior colleague or student as “Tanaka-dono” in a letter.
Nowadays, using -dono feels somewhat old-fashioned, and many people may never encounter it at all. Its usage is slowly phasing out, and while some companies continue to use it traditionally in internal communications, sama has become the safer and more standard choice when addressing someone respectfully.
6. Shi (氏)
Shi (氏) is a formal and neutral honorific used almost exclusively in written Japanese, such as newspapers, academic papers, official documents, or news reporting. Unlike sama or dono, it is not used in spoken conversation, and its purpose is to show respect in a polite but detached way.
For example, in a news article, one might write “Suzuki-shi stated that…” to refer to Mr. or Ms. Suzuki respectfully but neutrally. Because it conveys formality without intimacy, shi is considered appropriate in official or professional contexts, but it is generally avoided in everyday speech.
7. Tan (たん)
Tan (たん) is a cute evolution of -chan (ちゃん), created as a more playful and endearing term of affection. Much like how in English baby talk, a word like “milk” might become “mimi,” tan is a childish mispronunciation of chan. Over time, it became popular in otaku culture, fandoms, and among close friends. Like chan, tan is gender-neutral in principle, though it is most often used for girls or characters considered particularly cute. You’ll typically encounter tan in nicknames, fan communities, and playful informal speech.
Bou (坊) is a historical and affectionate Japanese honorific that was originally used to refer to apprentices, monks, or sons of a family, depending on the context. Over time, it became a diminutive for boys, similar to calling someone “buddy” or “sport” in English. Unlike chan, which is a more common and gender-neutral affectionate suffix used for children, close friends, or even partners, bou specifically emphasizes youth and masculinity. In modern Japanese, its use is quite rare and mostly appears in literature, historical contexts, or playful nicknames.
Using Social Status as Japanese Titles
By now, you must have guessed there is quite a long list of honorific titles. But did you know that another Japanese honorific system goes beyond simple suffixes and instead reflects hierarchy and social roles? In Japanese culture, relationships are often defined by seniority, and this is reflected in language that signals experience, guidance, and social ranking. The most famous ones are definitely senpai, kouhai, and sensei.
9. Senpai
Senpai (先輩) means “senior” or “upperclassman.” It refers to someone who has more experience or is in a higher grade or position than you, such as an older student, a senior colleague, or a mentor. Senpai often guides or supports kouhai.
In Japanese, senpai (先輩) can work like an honorific title. You attach it to someone’s name, like “Tanaka-senpai,” to show respect for their experience or seniority at school, work, or any group. Unlike -san or -chan, which are just polite ways to address someone, senpai shows your relationship: it tells people that you are the junior (kouhai) and they are the more experienced or senior person. I
10. Kouhai (後輩)
Kouhai (後輩) means “junior” or “underclassman.” It refers to someone who is younger, less experienced, or in a lower grade or position. Kouhai typically show respect to their senpai.
Note: Unlike senpai, kouhai is usually not used as an honorific attached to a name in the same way; it’s more about your relationship to the person!
11. Sensei (先生)
Sensei (先生) literally means “teacher” or “master.” If you’ve just started learning basic Japanese, you might recognize that sensei means teacher—the kind you have in school. But did you know that in Japanese, sensei can also refer to master or someone who is really skilled at their craft? Nowadays, this can mean doctors, politicians, or lawyers. It can also be used to show respect to artists, writers, or skilled practitioners. In the past (and still today), in Japanese martial arts, sensei usually refers to the head of a dojo.
We use sensei as an honorific because it’s a way of showing respect for someone’s knowledge, skill, or experience. Unlike casual suffixes like -san or -chan, which just make a name polite or friendly, sensei acknowledges authority and expertise.
田中先生に質問があります。 Tanaka-sensei ni shitsumon ga arimasu. I have a question for Mr./Ms. Tanaka (my teacher).
If you enjoy learning about Japanese history, you might also have heard “chichi ue” or “haha ue” to speak about one’s father (chichi) or mother (haha) with a high level of respect: 上 (ue) meaning above.
Japanese Honorifics in the Workplace and Occupations
San, kun, chan, and sama honorifics are often considered the basic Japanese titles, but there are other occupational honorific titles. Beware of the Japanese working environment! In traditional Japanese companies, workers are often addressed by their job titles rather than honorifics. For example, instead of saying “Tanaka-san,” you would say “Tanaka-shachou” when referring to your company president.
12. Buchou (部長)
The buchou is the head of a department within a company. They are responsible for managing the department’s operations, supervising staff, and making sure their team meets its goals.
田中部長は今、会議室で重要な打ち合わせをしています。 Tanaka-buchou wa ima, kaigishitsu de juuyou na uchiawase o shiteimasu. Manager Tanaka is currently having an important meeting in the conference room.
13. Shachou (社長)
The shachou is the company president or CEO. This is the highest executive position in the company, responsible for making major decisions, setting company policies, and representing the company both internally and externally. The shachou usually reports to the board of directors.
Example: 社長の山本さんは、新しいプロジェクトの発表をしました。 Shachou no Yamamoto-san wa, atarashii purojekuto no happyou o shimashita. President Yamamoto announced a new project.
14. Kachou (課長)
The kachou is a section manager or chief. They manage a smaller group or section within a department and report to the buchou.
Example: 鈴木課長はチームの進捗を毎週チェックしています。 Suzuki-kachou wa chiimu no shinchoku o maishuu chekku shiteimasu. Section Chief Suzuki checks the team’s progress every week.
Common Mistakes When Using Honorifics
One common mistake Japanese learners make is referring to themselves with an honorific title. Remember to never use san or any other title to refer to yourself unless you want to sound arrogant! The only exception to the rule is chan: in a casual context, some people, in particular, women, will refer to themselves in a childish third person.
Other times you should not use Japanese honorifics include:
Close family members (sometimes): Within families, honorifics are often dropped, especially when speaking about or to immediate family like siblings or parents.
Very close friends or lovers: Among close friends or romantic partners, people often use just the name or nicknames without honorifics.
In very casual or informal settings: Among children or in casual groups, honorifics might be omitted.
When using job titles or roles in formal contexts: As mentioned, sometimes , especially in business, people use titles like “buchou” (manager) or “tenchou” (store manager) without honorifics.
When to Drop Japanese Titles: 呼び捨て (Yobisute)
Yobisute (呼び捨て) is the act of dropping the suffix when you refer to someone else. As it shows a degree intimacy, it is important to take a peek into the Japanese concept of “in-out” (uchi / soto) ruling the whole Japanese speech.
In Japanese, “uchi” means home. As a concept, “uchi” refers to all the people you know inside a specific social circle: your family, your company, your club. For example, inside the “uchi”, family members may drop the title.
In Japanese, “soto” means outside. As a concept, “soto” refers to all the people who are not inside your specific social circle. For example, another company’s employee.
Japanese speech differs depending on the social context of your interlocutor. Foreigners most often struggle to grasp the honorific speech and the profoundly complex politeness of Japanese language. An important and simple rule is that you will not speak the same way with someone from “uchi” to someone from “soto”. Regarding the honorific title, the tricky conversation context would be when your interlocutor is from soto and you are referring to someone from “uchi”:
When talking with a client about your manager, Mr. Kaneki, you usually call him Kaneki-san in the office. However, in this formal context, you drop the honorific and use his work title instead: buchou no Kaneki (部長の金木), meaning “Manager Kaneki.”
Similarly, when referring to a colleague like Takezawa-san, you would say douryou no Takezawa (同僚の竹沢), which means “colleague Takezawa.”
Using Japanese Honorifics with a Western Name
In Japanese, honorifics are typically attached to a person’s last name, because Japanese society traditionally prioritizes the family or group over the individual. But what happens if you have a Western or foreign name that doesn’t follow that convention? Luckily, Japanese honorifics like -san, -chan, -sama, -sensei, and -senpai can also be used with Western names. For example, if your friend John is close to you, you could call him John-chan to show affection or playfulness. If you’re addressing a teacher or expert named Sarah, you could say Sarah-sensei to show respect for her knowledge or skill.
Of course, it’s also up to you and how the other person prefers to be addressed. You can use a surname, like Smith, if that feels more natural, but it’s all about mutual agreement and comfort in conversation.
Very often, you can feel confused and surprised to hear people addressing others with their family name. Japanese are not always at ease when addressing a foreigner, but they know the connection implied by the use of the first name abroad. Do not be surprised if -san is added to your first name instead of your family name. And do not feel offended if they omit the -san as some Japanese might attempt to respect Western manners.
On the contrary, the use of the first name is considered too familiar for the Japanese, and they would feel rather uncomfortable. That being said, the more you spend time in Japan or close to Japanese, the more you will understand that exceptions exist, in particular with Japanese who have experience with foreigners.
Want to master Japanese honorifics like -san, -kun, -chan, and -sama with confidence? Continue learning Japanese at Coto Academy, where you will learn not just the grammar, but the cultural nuances behind the language!
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What are Japanese honorifics?
Japanese honorifics are suffixes or titles added to names or job titles to express respect, familiarity, or social hierarchy. Common honorifics include -san, -kun, -chan, and -sama.
When should I use -san in Japanese?
Use -san when addressing someone politely, especially in formal situations or when speaking to people you don’t know well. It’s the most commonly used honorific and works like “Mr.” or “Ms.” in English, but is more universal.
What’s the difference between -kun and -chan?
Kun is typically used for boys or younger men and may also be used in workplace settings by superiors addressing junior staff. Chan is a more affectionate honorific used for children, close friends, or loved ones.
What does -sama mean in Japanese?
Sama is a very respectful honorific, often used for customers, clients, or people of higher social status. It is also used in formal letters and customer service settings.
Should I use Japanese honorifics when speaking English?
If you’re discussing Japanese people or culture in English, it’s acceptable to use honorifics like –san, especially for clarity or respect.
Where should I study Japanese?
If you want to learn Japanese effectively, considerCoto Academy. Coto offers tailored courses for all levels, from beginners to advanced learners, with native teachers who focus on practical conversation and cultural understanding. Whether you prefer in-person classes in Tokyo and Yokohama or online lessons from anywhere, Coto provides flexible options to suit your schedule.
Want to read more about Japanese language and culture? You might enjoy these posts:
Welcome to Coto Radio, a Japanese learning podcast by Coto Japanese Academy, Japan’s No. 1 Japanese language school. Each episode, our host combines captivating storytelling with engaging conversations, all delivered in clear, natural Japanese.
Today, Nagai-sensei and Hidari-sensei from Coto Academy take on a puzzling question: why is voter turnout in Japan so low? In the 2024 general election, for instance, The Japan News reported that only about 48% of teenagers cast their ballots. Overall turnout for single-seat constituencies was just 53.85%. Even more surprising, Minato Ward, Tokyo’s central ward with nearly 200,000 residents, saw a turnout of only 30%. What’s behind these numbers?
While their conversation began lightheartedly with personal goals and daily habits, it naturally expanded into civic responsibility, political engagement, and the importance of keeping promises, both in life and politics. Here’s a deeper look at the main themes of the episode.
1. Personal Goals: Small Steps, Big Impact
The hosts started by sharing their personal goals for the year. Hidari-sensei writes yearly objectives in her journal, focusing on “treasuring every single day, ”a philosophy inspired by the idea that if today doesn’t exist, neither will tomorrow. Her approach emphasizes mindfulness and the value of consistent effort.
On the other hand, Nagai-sensei took a humorous approach, sharing his goal of waking up early and doing sit-ups daily. Despite his efforts, he joked that his body hasn’t changed due to lockdowns and his love for beer. “The moment I stopped exercising, my stomach went soft and flabby!” he says.
They concluded that consistency matters. Whether it’s fitness, studying Japanese, or pursuing hobbies, what counts is not just starting but following through, even when the results aren’t immediate.
2. Japan’s Low Voter Turnout
The discussion then moves to the central topic: Japan’s low voter turnout. In Minato Ward, eligible voters number around 180,000 to 200,000, but only about 60,000 actually voted in 2024. The hosts explore several reasons for this phenomenon. Young people in Japan, like in many other countries, tend to show limited interest in politics, but another key factor is the exclusion of foreigners. Even those who have lived in Japan for decades, work full-time in Japanese companies, and have children in Japanese schools cannot vote without Japanese citizenship.
Nagai-sensei compared this to the U.S., where even celebrities like Taylor Swift encourage voter participation, illustrating how numbers matter in elections. The hosts emphasized that having the right to vote is meaningful, and exercising it is crucial.
3. Keeping Promises: Personal and Political
The Japanese word 果たす (hatasu), which means to fulfill a promise or commitment, was a highlight. The conversation then turns back to Minato Ward’s mayor, Seike, who has promised improvements in childcare, welfare, and disaster preparedness. While emphasizing Minato as an “international city full of love,” the mayor has not strongly focused on supporting foreign residents in disaster planning.
Politicians often fail to keep promises after elections, which may contribute to low voter motivation. Nagai-sensei humorously linked this concept to his daily life: staying committed to sit-ups, dieting, and even his beer habits!
Hidari-sensei explained せめて (semete), meaning “at least,” as a way to encourage small but meaningful efforts. Both hosts reinforced that following through, whether on personal goals or civic duties, is essential. They wrapped up by reminding listeners of Michael Jordan’s words: “Success comes from persisting through failure.”
Ready to listen to the full transcript? Brush up your listening skills with Coto Academy!
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head of ~ (village mayor, town mayor, city mayor, ward mayor, chairman)
投票（する）
touhyou (suru)
vote / to vote
～率
~ritsu
rate / percentage
政治
seiji
politics
興味・関心
kyoumi / kanshin
interest / concern
権利
kenri
right / privilege
防災対策
bousai taisaku
disaster preparedness measures
果たす
hatasu
to fulfill / to carry out a promise
New Grammar From the Podcast
Along the way, the teachers introduced some new Japanese grammar. Find the full list of new grammar points below.
Japanese
Romaji
English Translation
～たとたん～
ta totan
as soon as ~ / the moment ~
～たくても…ない
~takute mo…nai
even if you want to ~, cannot
せめて～（だけ）
semete~(dake)
at least ~ / at minimum
Useful Japanese Phrases From the Podcast
Beyond vocabulary and grammar, here are some handy expressions you can start using immediately.
Japanese
Romaji
English Translation
目標を立てる
mokuhyou o tateru
to set a goal
よく（それで）「～」って言えるね！
yoku (sorede) “~” tte ieru ne!
You really can say “~” (given the circumstances)!
バリバリ働く
baribari hataraku
to work energetically / full-on
AだけにB
A dake ni B
fitting / appropriate for A (because of A)
Podcast Transcript
Below is a transcript of an episode of Coto Radio, a podcast presented by Coto Academy available on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. We recommend listening to it in its original form for the full effect. The transcript has been lightly edited for length and clarity.
Nagai-sensei: どうもこんにちは！ Doumo konnichiwa! Hello!
Cotoラジオをお聞きいただきましてありがとうございます。 Coto rajio o okiki itadakimashite arigatou gozaimasu. Thank you very much for listening to Coto Radio.
Cotoでレッスンしている学習者の皆様そして世界中の日本語学習者の皆様こんにちは！ Coto de ressun shite iru gakushuusha no minasama soshite sekaijuu no nihongo gakushuusha no minasama konnichiwa! Hello to all the learners studying at Coto, and to Japanese learners all over the world!
お元気でしょうか!? Ogenki deshou ka!? How are you doing!?
日本で一番スポーツとビールが好きな日本語教師Nagaiです。 Nihon de ichiban supootsu to biiru ga suki na nihongo kyoushi Nagai desu. I’m Nagai, the Japanese teacher who loves sports and beer more than anyone else in Japan.
学校で、もし会ったら、「ハーイMr.Nagai」と声をかけてください！ Gakkou de, moshi attara, “Haai Misutaa Nagai” to koe o kakete kudasai! If you see me at school, please say, “Hi, Mr. Nagai!”
どうぞよろしくお願いします！ Douzo yoroshiku onegaishimasu! Nice to meet you and thank you for your support!
こちらのプログラムでは、日本のニュースや生活の中の話題について、できるだけ簡単な日本語を使って、できるだけナチュラルな話し方とスピードで先生たちといっしょに会話をしていきます。 Kochira no puroguramu de wa, Nihon no nyuusu ya seikatsu no naka no wadai ni tsuite, dekiru dake kantan na nihongo o tsukatte, dekiru dake nachuraru na hanashikata to supiido de sensei-tachi to issho ni kaiwa o shite ikimasu. In this program, we talk about Japanese news and topics from daily life using simple Japanese as much as possible, speaking naturally and at a comfortable speed with the teachers.
日本語の会話が上手に聞き取れない！！くやしい！という方はぜひ、楽しいリスニングのテキストだと思って、フォローしてみてください。 Nihongo no kaiwa ga jouzu ni kikitorenai!! Kuyashii! To iu kata wa zehi, tanoshii risuningu no tekisuto da to omotte, fooroo shite mite kudasai. If you have trouble understanding Japanese conversations, don’t worry! Think of this as a fun listening text and follow along.
ちょ～っと語彙は難しいかもしれませんが、途中で先生が説明してくれる時間もあるので、リラックスして最後までお聞きください！ Chou~tto goi wa muzukashii kamo shiremasen ga, tochuu de sensei ga setsumei shite kureru jikan mo aru node, rirakkusu shite saigo made okiki kudasai! Some vocabulary may be a bit difficult, but the teachers will explain things along the way, so relax and listen to the end!
さて、今日も私といっしょにお話してくれるのはOfficial Assistantの左先生です、よろしくお願いします！ Sate, kyou mo watashi to issho ni ohanashi shite kureru no wa Official Assistant no Hidari-sensei desu, yoroshiku onegaishimasu! Now, joining me for today’s conversation is Official Assistant, Hidari-sensei. Welcome!
Hidari-sensei:
はい、OAの左です！よろしくお願いしまーす！ Hai, OA no Hidari desu! Yoroshiku onegaishimaasu! Yes, I’m Hidari from OA! Nice to be here!
Nagai-sensei: 先生、今年の目標は、何かたてましたか？何か、これをするぞ！ できるようになるぞ！…みたいなものは？ Sensei, kotoshi no mokuhyou wa, nanika tatemashita ka? Nanika, kore o suru zo! Dekiru you ni naru zo! … Mitaina mono wa? Teacher, have you set any goals for this year? Something like, “I will do this!” or “I will achieve this!”?
Hidari-sensei: 私は毎日日記をつけているんですが、毎年日記帳の最初のページに今年の目標を書くんです。 Watashi wa mainichi nikki o tsukete iru n desu ga, maitoshi nikkichou no saisho no peeji ni kotoshi no mokuhyou o kakun desu. I keep a daily journal, and every year I write my goal for the year on the first page.
今年は「一日一日を大切にする」と書きました。「今日がなければ明日はない」ですから、「今をがんばろう」という意味です。 Kotoshi wa “Ichinichi ichinichi o taisetsu ni suru” to kakimashita. “Kyou ga nakereba ashita wa nai” desu kara, “ima o ganbarou” to iu imi desu. This year, I wrote, “Treasure every single day.” The idea is, “If today doesn’t exist, tomorrow won’t either,” so we should do our best now.
Nagai-sensei: ポジティブでいいですね～。 Pojitibu de ii desu ne~. That’s very positive!
僕はですね・・・、もう、「早起き」です！ Boku wa desu ne…, mou, “hayaoki” desu! As for me… it’s simply “waking up early”!
早起きしてトレーニング！ これです！ Hayaoki shite toreeningu! Kore desu! Wake up early and do training! That’s it!
Hidari-sensei: 早起き⁉ シンプル！ Hayaoki!? Shinpuru! Waking up early!? Simple!
なんか、小学生の夏休みの目標みたいですね～…。 Nanka, shougakusei no natsuyasumi no mokuhyou mitaina desu ne~… It’s kind of like an elementary school summer vacation goal…
で、トレーニングは、何のトレーニングを？ De, toreeningu wa, nan no toreeningu o? So, what kind of training?
Nagai-sensei: あの…これもシンプルに、腹筋です。シットアップ。 Ano… kore mo shinpuru ni, fukkin desu. Shitto appu. Ah… also simple: sit-ups.
まあ、1日30分だけなんですけど…。回数だと30回を10セット。 Maa, ichinichi sanjuppun dake nan desu kedo… Kaisuu da to sanjuu kai o juusetto. Well, only 30 minutes a day… 30 reps for 10 sets.
毎朝。水曜日以外。週に6回です。土日もがんばって6時に起きてやってます。 Maiasa. Suiyoubi igai. Shuu ni 6 kai desu. Donichi mo ganbatte rokuji ni okite yatte masu. Every morning. Except Wednesday. Six times a week. Even on weekends, I wake up at 6 to do it.
Hidari-sensei: おお～、筋肉のトレ―ニング、「筋トレ」ですね。 Ooh~, kinniku no toreeningu, “kintore” desu ne. Oh! Muscle training—“kintore,” right?
で、そのトレーニングの効果はどうですか？ De, sono toreeningu no kouka wa dou desu ka? So, how’s the effect of that training?
Nagai-sensei: これがですね、なんと！ Kore ga desu ne, nanto! Well, you know what!
全く体の形が変わっていません。変化なし！！ Mattaku karada no katachi ga kawatte imasen. Henka nashi!! My body shape hasn’t changed at all. No change!!
Hidari-sensei: ええ！、うそでしょ！ Ee! Uso desho! What!? No way!
よくトレーニングしてるって言えましたねー！ Yoku toreeningu shiteru tte iemashita ne~! I can’t believe you could even say you’ve been training!
Nagai-sensei: いや、待ってください！ただし！ただしですよ！ いいですか？ Iya, matte kudasai! Tadashi! Tadashi desu yo! Ii desu ka? No, wait! But! But really! Is that okay?
この、「変化が無い」というのは、かなりポジティブな結果なんです。僕にとって。 Kono, “henka ga nai” to iu no wa, kanari pojitibu na kekka nan desu. Boku ni totte. This “no change” is actually quite a positive result—for me.
Hidari-sensei: そうは思えないですけど…。 Sou wa omoenai desu kedo… I can’t really see it that way…
Nagai-sensei: まあ、聞いてください！ Maa, kiite kudasai! Well, listen to me!
Hidari-sensei: はい、まあ聞きますけど…。 Hai, maa kikimasu kedo… Okay, I’ll listen…
Nagai-sensei: ありがとうございます。コロナで… Arigatou gozaimasu. Corona de… Thank you! During COVID…
ロックダウンしましたよね。いろんな所で。 Rokkudaun shimashita yo ne. Ironna tokoro de. There was a lockdown, right? Everywhere.
Hidari-sensei: はい。お店も閉まってしまいましたね～。 Hai. Omise mo shimatte shimaimashita ne~. Yes. Even the shops had to close.
Nagai-sensei: それまで、コンスタントにプールで泳いでいたし、週末はバスケットボールの練習にも参加していたので、かなり運動してたんです。 Sore made, konsutanto ni puuru de oyoide ita shi, shuumatsu wa basukettobooru no renshuu ni mo sanka shite ita node, kanari undou shite ta n desu. Until then, I had been swimming consistently in the pool, and on weekends, I joined basketball practice, so I was exercising quite a lot.
だから毎日毎日大好きなビールを飲んでいても、お腹がブヨーンって大きくなったり階段上るのが大変になったりしなかったんです！ Dakara mainichi mainichi daisuki na biiru o nonde ite mo, onaka ga buyoon tte ookiku nattari kaidan noboru no ga taihen ni nattari shinakatta n desu! So even though I drank my beloved beer every single day, my stomach didn’t get bloated, and climbing stairs wasn’t difficult!
1段飛ばしで上ってましたから。ひょいひょい。 Ichidan tobashi de nobottemashita kara. Hyoi hyoi. I was even skipping steps when going up the stairs. Effortless.
Hidari-sensei: あ～なるほど。 Aa~ naruhodo. Ah, I see.
たくさん動いていたのに、急に何もしなくなったから…。 Takusan ugoite ita no ni, kyuu ni nani mo shinaku natta kara… Even though you were moving a lot, you suddenly stopped doing anything…
Nagai-sensei: そう！それが、体育館が使えなくなって、運動をやめた途端、めちゃめちゃお腹がぷよぷよになっちゃったんですよ！ Sou! Sore ga, taiikukan ga tsukaenaku natte, undou o yameta totan, mecha mecha onaka ga puyopuyo ni nacchatta n desu yo! Exactly! Once the gym became unavailable and I stopped exercising, my stomach instantly got really soft and flabby!
２年くらいずっと。 Ni nen kurai zutto. For about two years straight.
Hidari-sensei: ではここで、先に「～た とたん」…の説明しておきましょうか。 Dewa koko de, saki ni “~ta totan”… no setsumei shite okimashou ka. Shall we take a moment to explain “~ta totan”?
はい、何かをした「途端」は、前のactionが終わった後すぐに、次の何か 自分で controlできないことが起こった、だ・か・ら、びっくりした！ Hai, nanika o shita “totan” wa, mae no action ga owatta ato sugu ni, tsugi no nanika jibun de control dekinai koto ga okotta, da-ka-ra, bikkuri shita! When you use “~ta totan,” it’s used to describe when immediately after doing something, something happens that you cannot control—so you are surprised!
…という気持ちのときに使います。 …To iu kimochi no toki ni tsukaimasu. It’s used for expressing that kind of feeling.
Nagai-sensei: ありがとうございます！そうですね。この最後の「びっくりした」の気持ちがわかってないな～っていうミスは結構よく見ますよね。 Arigatou gozaimasu! Sou desu ne. Kono saigo no “bikkuri shita” no kimochi ga wakattenai na~ tte iu misu wa kekkou yoku mimasu yo ne. Thank you! Yes, exactly. I often see learners make the mistake of not really understanding the feeling behind “bikkuri shita” at the end.
Hidari-sensei: そうですね。例えば、「私は家に帰ったとたん水を飲んだ。」とか。「私はシャワーを浴びたとたん寝た。」というふうに、自分がコントロールしたことだから、本当はびっくりしないはずなのに、「とたん」を使ってしまう学習者がいますよね～。 Sou desu ne. Tatoeba, “Watashi wa ie ni kaetta totan mizu o nonda.” Toka. “Watashi wa shawaa o abita totan neta.” To iu fuu ni, jibun ga control shita koto dakara, hontou wa bikkuri shinai hazu na no ni, “totan” o tsukatte shimau gakushuusha ga imasu yo ne~. Exactly. For example, some learners say, “Watashi wa ie ni kaetta totan mizu o nonda” or “Watashi wa shawaa o abita totan neta.” Because these are things you controlled yourself, you shouldn’t actually be surprised, but some learners still use “totan” incorrectly.
みなさん気を付けましょう～！ Minasan ki o tsukemashou~! Everyone, be careful!
Nagai-sensei: はい。僕は、もう本当にお腹がぷよぷよになってびっくりしたので 使いました！ Hai. Boku wa, mou hontou ni onaka ga puyopuyo ni natte bikkuri shita node tsukaimashita! Yes. I really was surprised when my stomach became flabby, so I used it!
運動をやめた途端、お腹がぷよぷよになった！ Undou o yameta totan, onaka ga puyopuyo ni natta! The moment I stopped exercising, my stomach went soft and flabby!
わお！コントロールできませーん！！ Wao! Control dekimasen!! Wow! I have no control!!
Hidari-sensei: はい、…で、それで…？ Hai,… de, sorede…? Yes… so, what happened then?
Nagai-sensei: あ…。 そう！でも、ビールはやっぱり飲みたいじゃないですか。 A… Sou! Demo, biiru wa yappari nomitai ja nai desu ka. Ah… right! But you still want to drink beer, don’t you?
だから、お腹をぷよぷよにしないでビールを飲む方法はないかといろいろ考えた結果…あのー Dakara, onaka o puyopuyo ni shinaide biiru o nomu houhou wa nai ka to iroiro kangaeta kekka… Ano~ So, I thought about ways to drink beer without getting a flabby stomach… and well…
Nagai-sensei: そういうことです。 Sou iu koto desu. Exactly.
だから、毎日リバウンドしてるんですよ。腹筋→ダイエット→ビール→リバウンド…の繰り返し。 Dakara, mainichi ribaundo shiteru n desu yo. Fukkin → daietto → biiru → ribaundo… no kurikaeshi. So, every day I rebound—sit-ups → diet → beer → rebound… it’s a cycle.
ですから、「プラスマイナス０」にするために、腹筋が必要になった…という話です。 Desu kara, “purasu mainasu zero” ni suru tame ni, fukkin ga hitsuyou ni natta… to iu hanashi desu. That’s why sit-ups are necessary to keep it all balanced—plus/minus zero.
Hidari-sensei: よくわかりました。とにかく、何でも、ちゃんと自分でやろうと決めたことを続けているのは素晴らしいと思います。 Yoku wakarimashita. Tonikaku, nandemo, chanto jibun de yarou to kimeta koto o tsudzukete iru no wa subarashii to omoimasu. I understand. Anyway, it’s wonderful that you continue whatever you decide to do by yourself.
Nagai-sensei: えー、決めたこと、言ったことを続ける！ Ee, kimeta koto, itta koto o tsudzukeru! Yes—continue what you decided and what you said!
…って本当に大事なことなんです。日本語の勉強もそうです皆さん！ …Tte hontou ni daiji na koto nan desu. Nihongo no benkyou mo sou desu minasama! This is really important. The same goes for studying Japanese, everyone!
Nagai-sensei: そうです。 Sou desu. That’s right.
それがね、港区でその投票権を持っている人が、今までだいたい18万～20万人いたそうです。 Sore ga ne, Minato-ku de sono touhyoken o motte iru hito ga, ima made daitai 18-man ~ 20-man nin ita sou desu. You see, in Minato Ward, there have been about 180,000 to 200,000 people with voting rights.
でその～…前の武井区長が初めて区長になった時の選挙が、平成16年2004年…これが25.8%。 De sono~… mae no Takei kuchou ga hajimete kuchou ni natta toki no senkyo ga, Heisei 16 nen 2004 nen… kore ga 25.8%. And back when the previous Mayor Takei was elected for the first time, in 2004 (Heisei 16), the turnout was 25.8%.
そこから、…25.7%、…22.1％、…24.2％、…30.4％、そして、今回令和6年2024年…30.6％。 Soko kara,… 25.7%,… 22.1%,… 24.2%,… 30.4%, soshite, konkai Reiwa 6 nen 2024 nen… 30.6%. Since then, it went 25.7%, 22.1%, 24.2%, 30.4%, and this time, in 2024 (Reiwa 6), 30.6%.
これ、まず、港区ってそんなに人が住んでいるんだ！というのも驚いたんですが…ね、さすが東京の真ん中！ Kore, mazu, Minato-ku tte sonna ni hito ga sunde iru n da! To iu no mo odoroita n desu ga… ne, sasuga Tokyo no manaka! First, I was surprised at how many people live in Minato Ward! Right in the center of Tokyo!
でも、もっと驚いたのは、ちょっとは上がりましたけど、その中の30％しか投票していないことです。20万の中の6万人。 Demo, motto odoroita no wa, chotto wa agarimashita kedo, sono naka no 30% shika touhyou shite inai koto desu. 20-man no naka no 6-man nin. But what’s even more shocking is that only about 30% of them voted—60,000 out of 200,000.
どう思われますか、この数字？ Dou omoaremasu ka, kono suuji? What do you think about this number?
あ～、海外にはどう思われているんでしょうかね。 Aa, kaigai ni wa dou omoarete iru n deshou ka ne. Ah, I wonder what people overseas think about this.
この日本の選挙というか「政治」ポリティクスとかガバメントに対する興味・関心の無さ、投票率の低さってどう思われているんだろう…？ Kono Nihon no senkyo to iu ka “seiji” poritikusu toka gabamento ni taisuru kyoumi kanshin no nusa, touhyou-ritsu no hikusa tte dou omoarete iru ndarou…? How do they view the lack of interest in Japanese elections, politics, government, and the low voter turnout…?
Hidari-sensei: どこの国でもやはり若い人は政治に対する関心があまりないようではありますが…。 Doko no kuni demo yahari wakai hito wa seiji ni taisuru kanshin ga amari nai you de wa arimasu ga… In every country, young people generally don’t seem very interested in politics…
最近ニュースになっていましたが、アメリカでは、歌手のTaylor Swiftがインスタグラムでファンに選挙に行こうと呼びかけたりして、 Saikin nyuusu ni natte imashita ga, Amerika de wa, kashu no Taylor Swift ga insutaguramu de fan ni senkyo ni ikou to yobikaketari shite, Recently, it made the news that in the U.S., singer Taylor Swift encouraged her fans on Instagram to go vote,
彼女はインスタグラムで世界に3億人近くのフォロワーを持っているから、その影響力が注目されたりしていますよね。 Kanojo wa insutaguramu de sekai ni 3 oku nin chikaku no forowaa o motte iru kara, sono eikyouryoku ga chuumoku saretari shiteimasu yo ne. She has nearly 300 million followers worldwide, so her influence is very noticeable.
数がモノを言うのが選挙ですから、選挙に行く権利をもっていれば、行くべきだと私は思いますが。 Kazu ga mono o iu no ga senkyo desu kara, senkyo ni iku kenri o motte ireba, iku beki da to watashi wa omoimasu ga. Elections are all about numbers, so if you have the right to vote, I think you should exercise it.
それに、日本に長く住んでいる外国人の方々のように投票したくてもできない方もいるし。 Sore ni, Nihon ni nagaku sunde iru gaikokujin no katagata no you ni touhyou shitakute mo dekinai kata mo iru shi. Also, there are foreigners living in Japan who can’t vote even if they want to.
Nagai-sensei: そう、日本人は18歳からなので、例えば、18年間、港区にずっと住んでいるという外国人の方でもね、 Sou, Nihonjin wa 18-sai kara nano de, tatoeba, 18 nenkan, Minato-ku ni zutto sunde iru to iu gaikokujin no kata demo ne, That’s right, Japanese citizens can vote from 18, so even a foreigner who has lived in Minato Ward for 18 years,
バリバリ日本の企業で働いて、しかもお子さんは日本の小学校中学校に通っている…なんて人でも投票はできません。 Baribari Nihon no kigyou de hataraite, shikamo okosan wa Nihon no shougakkou chuugakkou ni kayotte iru… nante hito demo touhyou wa dekimasen. Even if they work full-time at a Japanese company and their children attend Japanese schools, they cannot vote.
Hidari-sensei: 日本の選挙に参加する権利、つまり「参・政・権」がないんですよねー。 Nihon no senkyo ni sanka suru kenri, tsumari “san-sei-ken” ga nai n desu yo ne. They don’t have the right to participate in Japanese elections; in other words, no “sanseiken.”
日本の国籍 Nationality, citizenshipをとらないとダメなんです。 Nihon no kokuseki, nationality, citizenship o toranai to dame nan desu. You need Japanese nationality or citizenship to vote.
Nagai-sensei: はい、外国人の方々にも、せめて、投票権だけでも認めてくれたらいいと思うんですけど、 Hai, gaikokujin no katagata ni mo, semete, touhyouken dake demo mitomete kuretara ii to omou n desu kedo, Yes, I think it would be good if at least voting rights were granted to foreigners,
これからの日本には必要なことなのではないかなあ…。と個人的な意見ですが。 Kore kara no Nihon ni wa hitsuyou na koto na no de wa nai ka naa… to kojinteki na iken desu ga. It might be something Japan needs in the future… just my personal opinion.
Hidari-sensei: はい、ここでまた、言葉の説明です！ Hai, koko de mata, kotoba no setsumei desu! Yes, let me explain a word here!
「せめて」ですね。これも実は日本人が自然に使う言葉です。 “Semete” desu ne. Kore mo jitsu wa Nihonjin ga shizen ni tsukau kotoba desu. It’s “semete.” Actually, it’s a word Japanese people naturally use.
あんまり満足じゃないけど、100%のsatisfactionはないけど、まあまあOK、minimumのライン。 Anmari manzoku ja nai kedo, 100% no satisfaction wa nai kedo, maa maa OK, minimum no rain. It means, “I’m not fully satisfied, but it’s okay, at least the minimum is met.”
また、他のものはいいから、これだけはお願い！といったリクエストをする時に、よく使いますね。 Mata, hoka no mono wa ii kara, kore dake wa onegai! To itta request o suru toki ni, yoku tsukaimasu ne. It’s often used when saying, “Other things are fine, but at least this, please!”
JLPTは、リスニング、グラマー＆リーディング、ボキャブラリー＆漢字、の３つのカテゴリーがありますけど、 JLPT wa, risuningu, guramaa & riidingu, bokyaburarii & kanji, no mittsu no kategorii ga arimasu kedo, JLPT has three categories: listening, grammar & reading, vocabulary & kanji,
「私は漢字が苦手なので困っています～」っていう学生よくいますよね。 “Watashi wa kanji ga nigate na node komatte imasu~” tte iu gakusei yoku imasu yo ne. There are often students who say, “I struggle with kanji and have trouble~.”
Hidari-sensei: そんな学生に「漢字は大変だけど、せめて20点取ろう！リスニングがパーフェクトだったらあとは大丈夫だから！！」とアドバイスすることもよくあります。 Sonna gakusei ni “Kanji wa taihen da kedo, semete 20-ten torou! Risuningu ga paafekuto dattara ato wa daijoubu dakara!!” To adobaisu suru koto mo yoku arimasu. For such students, we often advise, “Kanji is hard, but let’s get at least 20 points! If listening is perfect, the rest will be fine!!”
長井先生は、どんな使い方しますか？「せめて…」 Nagai-sensei wa, donna tsukaikata shimasu ka? “Semete…” Sensei Nagai, how do you use “semete”?
Nagai-sensei: 僕は、そうですね～、家で、サッカー見てる時に家族に、「ああ、チャンネル変えないで！せめてこの久保君のフリーキックだけでも見させて！」…とか、 Boku wa, sou desu ne~, ie de, sakkaa miteru toki ni kazoku ni, “Aa, channeru kaenaide! Semete kono Kubo-kun no free kick dake demo misasete!” …Toka, Well, at home, when watching soccer, I tell my family, “Don’t change the channel! At least let me watch Kubo’s free kick!”…
居酒屋で「え？もう終わり！？時間！？せめてあと1杯だけビール頼んでいい？」とかかな～。 Izakaya de “Eh? Mou owari!? Jikan!? Semete ato ippai dake biiru tanonde ii?” Toka kana~. Or at an izakaya, “What? Already done!? Time!? At least let me order one more beer?”
Hidari-sensei: 先生よく使ってそうですね（笑） Sensei yoku tsukatte sou desu ne (warai) Sensei, you seem to use it a lot (laughs).
Nagai-sensei: 言われてみれば…。確かに自然に使ってる！大事なフレーズ！ Iwarete mireba… Tashika ni shizen ni tsukatteru! Daiji na fureezu! Now that you mention it… I do use it naturally! It’s an important phrase!
Hidari-sensei: それで、清家（せいけ）区長は、港区の皆さんにどんなことを約束しているんでしょうか？ Sorede, Seike kuchou wa, Minato-ku no minasan ni donna koto o yakusoku shite iru n deshou ka? So, what promises is Mayor Seike making to the people of Minato Ward?
Nagai-sensei: はい、彼女の町作りのテーマは「愛があふれる国際都市港区！」だそうです。 Hai, kanojo no machizukuri no teema wa “Ai ga afureru Kokusai Toshi Minato-ku!” da sou desu. Her city planning theme is “Minato Ward, an international city full of love!”
お名前が愛さんだけに。 Onamae ga Ai-san dake ni. Fittingly, her name is Ai.
愛があふれる！いいですね～。 Ai ga afureru! Ii desu ne~. Overflowing with love! That’s nice~.
くわしく言うと、子育てサポートと welfare サービスをよくすること、あとはビルの防災対策をレベルアップしていく！…だそうです。 Kuwashiku iu to, kosodate sapooto to welfare saabisu o yoku suru koto, ato wa biru no bousai taisaku o reberu appu shite iku! …da sou desu. Specifically, improving childcare support and welfare services, and leveling up building disaster preparedness… that’s what she plans.
Hidari-sensei: なるほど。「防災」…つまり、地震や火事のような災害が起きた時に、住んでいる人が安心できるような準備をしていく…ということですね。 Naruhodo. “Bousai”… Tsumari, jishin ya kaji no you na saigai ga okita toki ni, sunde iru hito ga anshin dekiru you na junbi o shite iku… To iu koto desu ne. I see. “Disaster preparedness”… in other words, preparing so residents can be safe in case of earthquakes or fires.
Nagai-sensei: はい。でも、国際都市！って言っているけど、あまり外国人の方々のサポートについてはアピールしていないんですよね…。 Hai. Demo, Kokusai Toshi! tte itte iru kedo, amari gaikokujin no katagata no sapooto ni tsuite wa apiru shite inai n desu yo ne… Yes. But even though it’s called an international city, she hasn’t really emphasized support for foreigners…
ホームページとか見てみたんですけど。結局外国人はお客さんです…みたいな。 Hoomupeeji toka mite mita n desu kedo. Kekkyoku gaikokujin wa okyaku-san desu… mitaina. I checked her website. In the end, foreigners are treated more like visitors… it seems.
Hidari-sensei: 防災マップをいろんな言語でそろえるとか、そして、そのことをちゃんと外国人のために発信するとか…、やってくれるといいですね。 Bousai mappu o ironna gengo de soroeru toka, soshite, sono koto o chanto gaikokujin no tame ni hasshin suru toka…, yatte kureru to ii desu ne. It would be good if they prepared disaster maps in multiple languages and properly communicated this for foreigners.
Nagai-sensei: はい、災害が来た時に外国の方々が、慌ててパニックにならないように…。 Hai, saigai ga kita toki ni gaikoku no katagata ga, awatete panikku ni naranai you ni… Yes, so that foreigners don’t panic during disasters…
防災対策については本当に約束を果たしてほしいです。 Bousai taisaku ni tsuite wa hontou ni yakusoku o hatashite hoshii desu. I really hope they keep their promises regarding disaster preparedness.
Hidari-sensei: はい、「果たす」…という言葉は、言ったこと、すると決めたことを実際にその通りにする！という意味の言葉です。 Hai, “hatasu”… to iu kotoba wa, itta koto, suru to kimeta koto o jissai ni sono toori ni suru! To iu imi no kotoba desu. Yes, the word “hatasu” means to actually carry out what you said you would do, or to fulfill a commitment exactly as promised.
「約束したら、それを果たす。」 “Yakusoku shitara, sore o hatasu.” “If you make a promise, you fulfill it.”
「しようと決めたらそれを果たす。」 “Shiyou to kimetara sore o hatasu.” “If you decide to do something, you follow through on it.”
Nagai-sensei: でも、約束したのに、選挙で選ばれたとたん、やっぱりそれは無理！って約束を果たさない…そんな政治家がたくさんいるので…。 Demo, yakusoku shita noni, senkyo de erabareta totan, yappari sore wa muri! tte yakusoku o hatasanai… sonna seijika ga takusan iru node… But even though they made promises, the moment they are elected, they say, “That’s impossible!” and don’t fulfill them… There are many politicians like that.
Hidari-sensei: そうですね。それも投票率が低い理由の１つかもしれませんね。 Sou desu ne. Sore mo touhyo-ritsu ga hikui riyuu no hitotsu kamo shiremasen ne. That’s right. That might be one reason why voter turnout is low.
だから、先生はしっかり果たしましょう！ 腹筋！ Dakara, sensei wa shikkari hatashimashou! Fukkin! So, Sensei, make sure to follow through! Abs exercises!
はい、じゃあ、えーそのために、ビールを飲み続けます！！ Hai, jaa, ee, sono tame ni, biiru o nomitsuzukemasu!! Alright then, for that reason, I’ll keep drinking beer!!
Hidari-sensei: なんか順番がおかしいですけど。とにかく、がんばってください！ Nanka junban ga okashii desu kedo. Tonikaku, ganbatte kudasai! The order seems a bit off, but anyway, keep it up!
Nagai-sensei: 先生も今年は、一日一日を大切にし続けてくださいよ！ Sensei mo kotoshi wa, ichinichi ichinichi o taisetsu ni shi tsuzukete kudasai yo! Sensei, please continue to cherish each and every day this year too!
何でも、続けるのが大事、やめないのが大事です！ Nandemo, tsuzukeru no ga daiji, yamenai no ga daiji desu! Whatever it is, continuing is important, and not giving up is important!
バスケットボールの神様マイケル・ジョーダンも言ってました！ Basukettobooru no kamisama Maikeru Joodan mo itte mashita! Even the basketball god Michael Jordan said!
「成功した理由は、成功するまで失敗し続けたことだった」って。 “Seikou shita riyuu wa, seikou suru made shippai shi tsuzuketa koto datta” tte. “The reason for my success was that I kept failing until I succeeded.”
…と、いったところで、本日もお時間となりました。 …To, itta tokoro de, honjitsu mo ojikan to narimashita. …And with that, our time today has come to an end.
最後までお聞きいただきありがとうございました！ Saigo made okiki itadaki arigatou gozaimashita! Thank you for listening until the very end!
左先生もありがとうございました！ Hidari-sensei mo arigatou gozaimashita! Thank you as well, Hidari-sensei!
Hidari-sensei: はーい、ありがとうございました。 Haai, arigatou gozaimashita. Yes, thank you very much.
Nagai-sensei: CotoRadio For Japanese Learners お相手は、Mr.Nagaiと CotoRadio For Japanese Learners o-aite wa, Mr. Nagai to This is CotoRadio for Japanese Learners, with Mr. Nagai
Hidari-sensei: OA, official assistant 左でした！ OA, official assistant Hidari deshita! And OA, official assistant Hidari!
N/A: それでは、じゃあ、また、次回～！！ Soredewa, jaa, mata, jikai~!! Well then, see you next time!!
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If you enjoy this content, check out other Coto Radio transcripts:
Learning Japanese can feel overwhelming at first, but mastering basic greetings and essential vocabulary is a great way to ease into your studies. Whether you’re planning a trip to Japan, interacting with Japanese speakers, or just curious about the language, these words and phrases will help you build a solid foundation. But what are the first 100 Japanese words you need to learn? In this guide, we’ve gathered over 100 of the most useful Japanese words for beginners.
Interested in learning Japanese? Coto Japanese Academy specializes in creating personalized learning experiences for Japanese language learners. Start your language journey with us today!
Download our basic Japanese words cheat sheet!
If you want to learn Japanese words on-the-go, download the picture of our Basic Japanese Word Cheat Sheet below. You can save it to your device and refer to it anytime you want a quick vocabulary boost!
Mastering Basic Japanese Greetings and Essential Words
In order to master Japanese, you have to start by knowing how to greet people. Here are the most common Japanese greetings with their pronunciation and English meaning, essential for any beginner learning Japanese words.
Basic Japanese Words for Greetings
Japanese
Pronunciation
Meaning
おはようございます
Ohayou gozaimasu
Good morning (formal)
こんにちは
Konnichiwa
Hello/ good afternoon
こんばんは
Konbanwa
Good evening
おやすみなさい
Oyasuminasai
Goodnight (formal)
ありがとうございます
Arigatou gozaimasu
Thank you
すみません
Sumimasen
Excuse me/ sorry
ごめんなさい
Gomennasai
Sorry (formal)
はい
Hai
Yes
いいえ
Iie
No
Cultural Tip: In Japan, bowing while saying greetings is a common practice and shows respect. Try incorporating a slight bow when greeting people.
Japanese WordsRelated to Family
Learn how to talk about family members in Japanese with these basic words and phrases.
Japanese
Pronunciation
Meaning
わたし
Watashi
I/me
あなた
Anata
You
お母さん
おかあさん Okaasan
Mother
お父さん
おとうさん Otousan
Father
お爺さん
おじいさん Ojiisan
Grandfather
お婆さん
おばあさん Obaasan
Grandmother
おじさん
Ojisan
Uncle
おばさん
Obasan
Aunt
お兄さん
おにいさん Oniisan
Older brother
お姉さん
おねえさん Oneesan
Older sister
弟
おとうと Otouto
Younger brother
妹
いもうと Imouto
Younger sister
Did you know? The use of honorifics like “-san” adds politeness and respect to family terms. Learn more about Japanese honorifics in our guide.
Counting in Japanese: Basic Words for Numbers 1-10
Numbers are essential in daily life, whether you need to say your date of birth at the city hall or describe how many food items you want at the grocery store. Here are the most basic words you need to count from 1 to 10 in Japanese, with pronunciation and meaning:
Japanese
Pronunciation
Meaning
一
いち Ichi
One
二
に Ni
Two
三
さん San
Three
四
し/よん Shi/yon
Four
五
ご Go
Five
六
ろく Roku
Six
七
しち/なな Shichi/nana
Seven
八
はち Hachi
Eight
九
きゅう Kyuu
Nine
十
じゅう Juu
Ten
Tip: “Shi” (four) is sometimes avoided because it sounds like the word for “death” in Japanese.
Keep in mind that numbers are conjugated differently depending on what you’re counting in Japanese. For a full breakdown on how numbers work in Japanese, please read our guide to Japanese numbers.
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Learn the names of the months in Japanese, which is useful for planning travel or for discussing time frames in daily conversations. For a deep dive into months, read our ultimate guide into months, days, and years.
Japanese
Pronunciation
Meaning
一月
いちがつ Ichigatsu
January
二月
にがつ Nigatsu
February
三月
さんがつ Sangatsu
March
四月
しがつ Shigatsu
April
五月
ごがつ Gogatsu
May
六月
ろくがつ Rokugatsu
June
七月
しちがつ Shichigatsu
July
八月
はちがつ Hachigatsu
August
九月
くがつ Kugatsu
September
十月
じゅうがつ Juugatsu
October
十一月
じゅういちがつ Juuichigatsu
November
十二月
じゅうにがつ Juunigatsu
December
Days of the Week & Times of the Day in Japanese
The Japanese days of the week are inspired by natural elements like the moon, fire, and water. If you want a full breakdown of the terms for weekdays, read our guide to days of the week. For now, here’s a basic list with meanings and pronunciations.
Japanese
Pronunciation
Meaning
月曜日
げつようび Getsuyoubi
Monday
火曜日
かようび Kayoubi
Tuesday
水曜日
すいようび Suiyoubi
Wednesday
木曜日
もくようび Mokuyoubi
Thursday
金曜日
きんようび Kinyoubi
Friday
土曜日
どようび Doyoubi
Saturday
日曜日
にちようび Nichiyoubi
Sunday
昨日
きのう Kinou
Yesterday
今日
きょう Kyou
Today
明日
あした Ashita
Tomorrow
朝
あさ Asa
Morning
昼
ひる Hiru
Noon
夕方
ゆうがた Yuugata
Evening
夜
よる Yoru
Night
Quick Fact: The days of the week are named after natural elements such as the moon (Getsu) and fire (Ka).
Must-Know Japanese Adjectives
Adjectives help you describe people, food, and everyday life in Japanese. In order to describe an experience or whether a restaurant is tasty, you will need to know adjectives. Here are the most common terms for beginners.
Japanese
Pronunciation
Meaning
楽しい
たのしい Tanoshii
Happy
悲しい
かなしい Kanashii
Sad
高い
たかい Takai
High/expensive
低い
ひくい Hikui
Low
安い
やすい Yasui
Cheap
早い
はやい Hayai
Fast/early
遅い
おそい Osoi
Slow
忙しい
いそがしい Isogashii
Busy
美味しい
おいしい Oishii
Delicious
不味い
まずい Mazui
Awful
甘い
あまい Amai
Sweet
塩っぱい
しょっぱい Shoppai
Salty
酸っぱい
すっぱい Suppai
Sour
苦い
にがい Nigai
Bitter
辛い
からい Karai
Hot/ spicy
熱い
あつい Atsui
Hot
暖かい
あたたかい Atatakai
Warm
冷たい
つめたい Tsumetai
Cold
明るい
あかるい Akarui
Bright
暗い
くらい Kurai
Dark
Try This: Describe your meal using these adjectives next time you eat Japanese food!
While this is a basic list of Japanese adjectives, to fully understand how adjectives work, please read: 100 common adjectives in Japanese.
Common Japanese Verbs for Daily Use
Verbs are the backbone of sentences. Master these essential Japanese verbs for daily conversations. For a full list of verbs in Japanese, check out: 100 Basic Japanese Verbs for Beginners!
Japanese
Pronunciation
Meaning
する
Suru
To do
見る
みる Miru
To see
聞く
きく Kiku
To listen
話す
はなす Hanasu
To talk/speak
言う
いう Iu
To say
書く
かく Kaku
To write
食べる
たべる Taberu
To eat
飲む
のむ Nomu
To drink
歩く
あるく Aruku
To walk
走る
はしる Hashiru
To run
座る
すわる Suwaru
To sit
立つ
たつ Tatsu
To stand
Practice Tip: Create sentences combining verbs with nouns, like “ごはんを食べる” (Gohan o taberu – I eat rice).
Food-related Japanese Vocabulary
Food is central to Japanese culture. Learn basic Japanese food words to enhance your dining experience.
Building vocabulary is a continuous journey. The more advanced you become in Japanese, the more words you’ll need to learn. For example, to pass the JLPT N3, you need to know around 3,700 vocabulary words! That might sound like a lot, and even starting with 100 words can feel intimidating. But don’t worry. Here are some tips to make the process more manageable and enjoyable:
1. Group vocabulary based on themes and function
If you’re just starting out, organizing words by topic can make learning much easier. You can group words related to food, family, numbers, or other daily-life themes. Breaking big chunks of vocabulary into smaller categories helps your brain “digest,” process, and remember them more effectively. You can also organize words by part of speech, like verbs, adjectives, nouns, and pronouns, to better understand how they function in sentences.
2. Build slowly, over time
A common mistake is trying to cram too many words in a single day. Even if you memorize 100 words in one session, chances are you’ll forget most of them the next day. The key is consistent, gradual learning. For example, learning 10 words per day will give you 100 words in just 10 days. Always make time for review, revisiting words learned the previous day or week, to reinforce long-term memory.
3. Apply them in a sentence
The best way to truly learn Japanese is by using new words in context. Look at example sentences, try writing your own, or practice speaking them out loud, even to yourself in the mirror! Conversation-focused lessons, like those at Coto Academy, are excellent because you immediately apply what you learn in real-life situations. The more you use words actively, the faster they stick.
Start taking Japanese lessons and master these 100 basic Japanese words!
For the next step after learning these basic Japanese words, equip yourself with basic Japanese grammar.
But memorization alone isn’t enough; real progress comes from putting these words into practice through conversation.
At Coto Academy, our professional Japanese teachers specialize in helping beginners build confidence and fluency. Through practical, conversation-focused lessons, you’ll learn how to use these basic words in everyday situations, and gradually expand your vocabulary and grammar.
Interested? Check out our intensive Japanese courses or any of our other in-person or online courses that fit your needs. Feel free to fill out the form below if you have any questions!
FAQ
What Japanese words should I learn first?
Start with greetings and polite expressions like:
おはようございます : Ohayou gozaimasu (Good morning)
ありがとうございます : Arigatou gozaimasu (Thank you)
すみません : Sumimasen (Excuse me / Sorry)
These words will help you navigate basic conversations respectfully.
What is "gozaimasu"?
Gozaimasu is a polite ending often added to expressions to show respect. For example, “Arigatou gozaimasu” is a formal way of saying “thank you.”
Is 1 year enough to learn Japanese?
It depends on your goals. In one year, with consistent study and practice, you can achieve conversational proficiency in daily scenarios. However, mastering advanced grammar and kanji will take longer. At Coto Japanese Academy, our tailored courses and immersive programs are designed to help you maximize your learning and see real progress within a year.
How do I introduce myself in Japanese?
A basic introduction looks like this:
“よろしくおねがいします (Yoroshiku onegaishimasu)” – Please treat me well.
“はじめまして (Hajimemashite)” – Nice to meet you.
“わたしのなまえは [Your Name] です (Watashi no namae wa [Your Name] desu)” – My name is [Your Name].
What does "moshi moshi" mean?
Moshi moshi (もしもし) is a greeting used when answering the phone in Japanese. It’s informal and typically used among friends or family.
What are some good resources for learning Japanese?
Flashcard apps like Anki for vocabulary.
Language exchange apps like HelloTalk.
Enrolling in immersive courses like our 3-month intensive program.
Why are there two words for "four" (shi/yon)?
“Shi” is often avoided because it sounds like the word for “death,” so “yon” is used more commonly in daily life.
What are the most useful Japanese words for beginners?
Greetings such as こんにちは (Konnichiwa – Hello), ありがとうございます (Arigatou gozaimasu – Thank you), and everyday basics like numbers, family terms, and food words are essential starting points.
How do you say family members in Japanese?
Common terms include お母さん (Okaasan – Mother), お父さん (Otousan – Father), お兄さん (Oniisan – Older Brother), and 妹 (Imouto – Younger Sister).
Try short conversations with native speakers, use flashcards for recall, or join a language school like Coto Academy, where teachers help you practice real-life conversations using these basics.
Is it better to learn words or grammar first in Japanese?
Beginners benefit from learning essential words and phrases first, then gradually applying them within simple grammar structures to build practical conversation skills.
Do you have all the foundation you need to learn Japanese? Find more useful, beginner-level learning content below!
Otsukaresama desu! If you’ve lived or worked a little in Japan, you might have heard this key expression. In the office, you might want to make sure that you develop a warm relationship with your new Japanese colleagues. The key expression that you will have to learn is “otsukaresama desu” (お疲れ様です).
In English, “otsukaresama desu” literally means “tired” or “you’re tired”. It is one of those Japanese expressions, like onegaishimasu, where its true meaning goes far beyond a simple translation. In the workplace, for example, it carries a sense of appreciation, acknowledgment, and camaraderie. Used in the right context, like after a long day of work, it conveys respect for your colleagues’ effort and signals that you’re all in this together. So, what does it really mean, and how do you use it without sounding awkward? Let’s dive in!
Quick Video Summary of Otsukaresama Desu
Let’s watch a video for a quick crash course on how to use otsukaresama desu in Japanese!
Meaning of お疲れ様です (Otsukaresama Desu)
Otsukaresama desu (otsukarasama desu) is literally translated to “tired” or “you’re tired.” To understand this unique phrase a bit more, let’s break it down piece by piece. The phrase is actually made of several parts. お(o) is the honorific prefix that expresses politeness (the phrase always has this prefix).
疲れる (tsukareru) is the root word of tsukareru, meaning “to be tired or be tired”
様 (sama) is an honorific suffix that adds even greater respect to the phrase. You will often hear this suffix attached to your last name by service staff to express respect to you.
です (desu) is a marker for politeness.
The phrase is used in different contexts, so what you’re expressing to the listener will be far from the literal English definition.
The closest English translation would be “thank you for your hard work”, “good work”, or more simply saying that “you’ve worked hard”. By saying お疲れ様です, you show your appreciation for a colleague’s work within your team or related to your company.
Difference Between Otsukaresama Desu (です) and Otsukaresama Deshita (でした)
If you’ve spent any time in a Japanese workplace, you’ve probably heard お疲れ様です (otsukaresama desu) countless times. But sometimes, you’ll also hear お疲れ様でした (otsukaresama deshita). Since deshita is the past tense of desu, it might seem like a small difference. So what’s the real difference between saying です and でした, and when should you use each?
The nuance is a bit tricky. In short, otsukaresama desu is used to address ongoing effort, while otsukaresama deshita is used when the other person has completed the effort. When saying でした, you use the past form and imply that the work is “done”, “over”.
If you were to leave a colleague to his task and say でした, you would literally say, “Thank you for your finished work,” although he’s still working on it!
お疲れ様です (otsukaresama desu), meanwhile, is used while someone is still working or when you greet colleagues during the day. It’s like saying, “Hello, and thanks for your hard work so far.”When in doubt, prefer the present phrase “otsukaresama desu”. Better to be safe than rude.
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Generally, otsukaresama desu is the most common and respectful way to say this phrase, but as mentioned above you can drop certain parts to make it more casual. So, here are some other ways otsukaresama desu could be used:
1. Otsukaresama desu
The most basic form and the safest is, of course, otsukare sama desu. It is used while someone is still working or during the day to acknowledge ongoing effort. It works like a polite greeting combined with appreciation. For example, when passing by a colleague at their desk, you might say:
お疲れ様です！ Thanks for your hard work!
2. お疲れ様でした (Otsukaresama deshita)
This phrase is used after work is completed or after someone finishes a task. It expresses gratitude for the effort that has already been put in. For example, at the end of the workday:
お疲れ様でした。 Thank you for your hard work today.
3. Otsukaresama (お疲れ様)
You can say this expression without the desu (です) attached, which will make it more casual. Sama (様) is generally seen as a very formal suffix, but in this context, otsukaresama has a rather informal connotation.
4. Otsukare (お疲れ)
Otsukare is the most casual form of the phrase, without any of the formal markers. This expression is best used with friends or colleagues you are close to. With senpai or your bosses, it is better to use the more formal versions of the expression.
These expressions lean towards the more casual side of communication, but what is the most appropriate for work or outside of work?
5. Otsukaresama de gozaimasu (お疲れ様でございます)
お疲れ様でございます is the most formal and polite version of お疲れ様です. It’s often used in business settings when speaking to clients, superiors, or anyone you want to show extra respect to. The addition of でございます (the ultra-polite, keigo form of です) elevates the level of politeness.
While お疲れ様です can be used casually among colleagues, お疲れ様でございます should be reserved for the most formal settings. For example, in a business email, you might write:
本日もお疲れ様でございます。 Honjitsu mo otsukare sama de gozaimasu. Thank you for your hard work today.
Since using でございます can sound awkward in everyday spoken conversation, it is usually reserved for written form or when speaking to clients, where a higher level of politeness and professionalism is expected.
When to use お疲れ様です (Otsukaresama desu)
First of all, don’t be embarrassed if you don’t know when to use otsukaresama desu. It might sound strange to repeat it several times a day every time you see your coworkers, but for your colleagues, it shows your desire to get closer and to respect Japanese work culture.
Saying Otsukaresama Desu at the Workplace
The expression is most often used while working in Japan, in which case it might be more formal. But this term is used in a variety of different circumstances, and depending on your relationship with certain colleagues, you could say it more casually. So let’s explore the different situations when お疲れ様です or お疲れ is most appropriate at work.
1. Arriving at your workplace
In a situation when you would normally say “hi” or “How are you doing” to your colleague, replace it with お疲れ様です. The expression is proper when you arrive at work after your colleagues. Depending on the situation, it is also a perfect conversation starter or ending.
However, when entering the office in the morning, it is more customary to say おはようございます (ohayou gozaimasu) instead. But it does depend on the situation. If you have a shift in the afternoon or evening, it might be more common to say otsukaresama desu rather than a Japanese greeting such as こんばんは (konbanwa).
2. During work and meetings
You can use the expression in various situations, so it’s difficult to explain them all. Very often, internal meetings will end with everyone saying お疲れ様です as a way to thank all the participants. Co-workers will thank each other for completing a task or when one of them returns from a meeting outside. お疲れ様です expresses the importance of teamwork in Japan. Japanese people believe everyone must feel recognized and part of the company. You can even say the phrase when crossing the path of a colleague in your company’s hallway. It’s never too much!
3. Leaving after work
The phrase is typically used after working hours when employees leave the office. The colleagues still working say goodbye with お疲れ様でした (otsukaresama deshita). Japan is also known for nominication, a word born from 飲む to drink and the word “communication”. Traditionally, Japanese coworkers share drinks after work and in a more casual context, which helps to build a good work relationship. Sometimes, before or after you kanpai with your colleagues, your team might also say otsukaresama desu to show appreciation for everyone’s team effort.
Using お疲れ様です (Otsukaresama desu) Outside of the Workplace
Yes. Even outside your working environment, you could use the expression to greet some people you know well. However, the meaning would be a little different, closer to a simple Japanese greeting than an appreciation of their workday.
1. With Friends
You could use the expression to greet some people you know well. However, the meaning would be a little different, closer to a simple Japanese greeting than an appreciation of their workday, depending on the circumstance.
You could even say it to your friend after they’ve had a long day, to acknowledge that they worked hard. Since you don’t need to be so formal, just saying お疲れ様 (Otsukaresama) or お疲れ (Otsukare) would be more comfortable and less rigid-sounding.
2. In Clubs & Sports Teams
This is especially common if you join a Japanese university and enter one ff its clubs, or ぶかつ (bukatsu). If you’re involved in any group activity in Japan, whether it’s sports, art, or other extracurriculars, you’ll likely hear お疲れ様です (otsukaresama desu) after every practice. This is both a way of showing appreciation and a way of saying bye. Additionally, when celebrating after a competition or even for bounenkai (year-end gathering), you often meet up for drinks and say otsukaresama desu before you kanpai, similar to drinking with colleagues.
When Should You Not Use Otsukaresama Desu?
With colleagues or sports teammates, there are very few instances saying otsukaresama desu wouldn’t be appropriate. You wouldn’t use otsukaresama desu to clients or customers. When they leave your office or place of work, you would say thank you very much or ありがとうございます.
However, there are still situations where you might say お疲れ様です (otsukaresama desu) to a client or customer. For example, when you get a haircut, it’s common for the stylist to say お疲れ様です right after finishing your hair. However, unlike in workplaces or clubs, it’s usually not said right before you leave, since the phrase in this context is more about acknowledging the effort that just took place rather than serving as a goodbye.
Alternatives to Otsukaresama Desu
As we mentioned, お疲れ様です (Otsukaresama desu) can have various meanings, ranging from “thank you for your hard work” to “excuse me” when leaving the office. However, depending on the situation, there are several alternative phrases you can use to express similar sentiments more appropriately.
1. ご苦労様です (Gokurousama desu)?
The two expressions, お疲れ様 and ご苦労様 share the same meaning, showing the appreciation of someone’s hardship. However, the latter is less frequently used as it implies a social connotation and is always directed at subordinates. Simply speaking, your boss can thank you with ご苦労様です, but you will answer back with a respectful お疲れ様です. In a more casual context and with your friends, you can simply use お疲れ or お疲れ様. Always remember to be careful with the level of politeness in Japan. When in doubt, use keigo to be polite.
2. ありがとうございます (Arigatou gozaimasu)
Arigatou gozaimasu is the standard polite way to say “thank you” in Japanese. You can use arigatou gozaimasu in place of otsukare sama desu in place when you want to thank someone in the workplace. It can be used to thank a colleague for their help, acknowledge someone’s effort, or show appreciation for a service.
3. お先に失礼します (Osaki ni shitsurei shimasu)
お先に失礼します (Osaki ni shitsurei shimasu) literally means “Excuse me for leaving ahead.” It’s a polite phrase commonly used when leaving the office or a meeting before others, showing that you recognize your colleagues are still working. In many workplaces, it’s often paired with お疲れ様です (Otsukaresama desu) to acknowledge everyone’s ongoing effort. That said, you can also use either phrase on its own when exiting. Both are perfectly natural ways to show respect while leaving!
Final Remarks on Otsukaresama Desu
Whether you’re in the office, on the sports field, or just hanging out with friends, お疲れ様です (Otsukaresama desu) is more than just “thanks for your hard work.”
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FAQ
What does "Otsukaresama desu" mean?
“Otsukaresama desu” translates to “Thank you for your hard work” or “Good work.” It’s used to express appreciation for someone’s efforts and to acknowledge their contributions in a professional setting.
When should I use "Otsukaresama desu" in the workplace?
You can use “Otsukaresama desu” in various situations, such as:
Saying goodbye when leaving the office.
Greeting colleagues during the day.
Acknowledging someone’s hard work after completing a task or meeting.
What's the difference between "Otsukaresama desu" and "Otsukaresama deshita"?
“Otsukaresama desu” is the present tense and is often used during the workday. “Otsukaresama deshita” is the past tense, used when work is finished or at the end of the day.
Can "Otsukaresama desu" be used outside of work?
Yes, it can be used in non-work settings like sports or events to show appreciation for someone’s effort.
How do I respond to "Otsukaresama desu"?
You can reply with “Otsukaresama desu” as well, returning the appreciation.
Is there a version used by superiors to subordinates?
Yes, “Gokurosama desu” (ご苦労様です) is used by superiors, but it’s not appropriate to use it toward someone of higher status.
Can it replace greetings like "Konnichiwa"?
In workplace settings, yes. It’s common to use “Otsukaresama desu” instead of “hello” when seeing coworkers.
Why is this phrase important in Japanese work culture?
It promotes mutual respect and recognition, reinforcing teamwork and a sense of community in the workplace.
Is it rude not to say otsukaresama desu?
In professional or group settings, it may come across as cold or dismissive. It’s a key phrase for maintaining good relationships in Japan.
Can I use otsukare with friends?
Yes! Among close friends or peers, you can shorten it to お疲れ (otsukare) for a casual, friendly tone.
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As the weather cools and the Japanese landscape transforms into a colorful mosaic of golden ginkgo and red maple trees, what does Japan’s booming capital have in store for us? Tokyo in the fall is perhaps one of the best times to plan picnics or trips around the city, as the weather is just right (not too hot nor too cold). The autumn leaves blowing in the breeze against a backdrop of the cityscape is a sight to behold.
But when does autumn in Tokyo start and the leaves change to the vibrant hues of red, orange, and yellow? You may also be wondering where the best places are to absorb the autumn foliage. Let’s continue reading to find out everything you need to know about making the most of the fall season in Tokyo.
Is fall a good time to visit Tokyo?
Fall is one of the best times to visit or go out in Tokyo due to the mild weather and beautiful views. While the spring cherry blossoms might be the most popular image of Japan to outsiders, fall is arguably just as iconic with its beautiful multi-colored canopies. Since ancient times, the autumn foliage has been admired by the Japanese population just as much as the sakura trees were during Spring. But there are some things to keep in mind about visiting Tokyo during autumn.
Similar to spring, people with allergies to certain pollen may develop hay fever during the fall. However, unlike spring, which usually has high counts of cedar and cypress pollen, the allergy-inducing plants with the highest pollen count in fall include:
Grasses
Ragweed
Mugwort
Japanese hop
So, if you have allergies to pollen from the plants above, we highly recommend taking precautions to prevent or reduce hay fever symptoms. The most effective measures include wearing a mask, wearing a hat, and getting allergy medication from the local pharmacy in Japan.
When is fall in Tokyo?
The Fall season, or 秋 (aki), in Tokyo is generally from September to around the end of November or early December. However, noticeable changes of the fall season, such as the weather cooling down or the foliage changing color, can vary depending on the region, elevation, and climate. Tokyo temperatures cool down before the foliage changes color. By around mid-October, temperatures will start dropping. During the peak fall season, temperatures generally float around 18°C to 24°C.
What to wear during the fall season in Tokyo
As the temperature is relatively cooler compared to summer and even spring, wearing clothes for cooler weather is highly recommended. Also, keep in mind that areas higher in elevation, such as around Mt. Fuji, will be even cooler, so even warmer clothes would be better. Overall, we recommend wearing something like the following:
Light sweaters, sweatshirts, blazers, or jackets
Pants such as jeans or light leggings
Light scarves
Once the weather cools down, the true colors of fall start to show, but when is the best time to make plans for appreciating the autumn leaves?
When can you view momiji in Tokyo?
紅葉 (momiji) literally means “red leaves,” but when pronounced as koyo (yes, same kanji), it refers to all the colors of the iconic fall foliage. Based on the forecast map provided by the Japan Meteorological Corporation, the koyo or autumn canopies will have completely changed color by late November. So, it seems the peak season for the autumn foliage is around November 26 to 30.
However, the leaves may start changing to hues of yellow or orange before, even as far as a month or so. The foliage will change depending on when the weather cools down. In 2024, since the temperatures were substantially higher than average until November, the peak foliage was pushed back to late December.
Mid to late November is the highlight of Tokyo’s fall season, with the autumn leaves showcasing their full range of colors from bright yellows to deep reds. November is also the perfect season to go out on a cozy picnic due to the mild weather filled with colorful scenery. It’s also a great time to enjoy seasonal treats like roasted sweet potatoes (yaki-imo), chestnut desserts, or seasonal wagashi shaped like maple leaves.
Keep in mind these timelines work as a guideline for making plans; whether the foliage would have fully shifted to the vibrant autumn colors will vary year to year. For more details, check out our guide to the autumn foliage forecast.
Beyond the beautiful foliage, autumn is also festival season, with cultural parades, harvest celebrations, and even modern events like Halloween. Here is a guide to enjoying the season, month by month.
September Autumn Itinerary in Tokyo
Mt. Takao
September is when the Fall season officially begins and summer ends, but this month still has some remaining summer-related festivals. The weather is still warm, but near the end, as the weather cools, you may witness the beginnings of the fall transformation.
1. Join Late Summer Fireworks & Festivals
Some of the last remaining summer festivals spill into early September. Hosted by Tokyo’s local shrines, you can find the iconic obon dances and summer-style matsuri featuring lively food stalls (yakisoba, takoyaki, kakigori), taiko performances, and even certain areas with fireworks. These festivals are perfect for easing into the cooler season and may even be preferable to the larger summer festivals in Tokyo that take place when the weather is still hot.
Festivals are held in various neighborhoods across Tokyo, such as:
Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Reitaisai Festival in Kamakura
Chofu City Fire Works
Blue Note Jazz Festival
2. Tokyo Ramen Festa (東京ラーメンフェスタ)
Every year, Komazawa Olympic Park hosts the Tokyo Ramen Festa, the largest outdoor ramen event in the country. Over 30 stalls represent different regions of Japan, each serving their own specialty from Hokkaido’s famous miso ramen, to Kyushu’s rich tonkotsu (pork bone) broth, to lighter soy-based Tokyo-style bowls. Many shops create limited-edition bowls just for the festival, so even seasoned ramen lovers will discover something new.
The atmosphere is lively, with long rows of food tents, picnic seating, and plenty of locals and tourists alike. Since the event usually runs across two weeks, the lineup of ramen shops changes midway through, which means you can come twice to try even more flavors.
Where: Komazawa Olympic Park, Setagaya
Cost: Free entry, ramen bowls ~¥800 each
3. Take a Day Trip to Mount Takao (高尾山)
Located just an hour from Shinjuku, Mount Takao is one of the most popular quick retreats from Tokyo and one of the best places to see autumn colors close to the city. The mountain offers a wonderful mix of hiking trails, a cable car and chair lift, and even a temple (Yakuoin) halfway up, where visitors pray for good fortune.
In early autumn (late September – October), Takao is especially pleasant for hiking, with cooler temperatures and glimpses of red maples and golden ginkgo along the trails. By mid-to-late November, the foliage is at its peak, and the mountain is covered in a vibrant mosaic of colors.
For food lovers, the area is also famous for tenguyaki (a sweet, custard-filled pastry shaped like a mythical goblin mask) and tororo soba (buckwheat noodles topped with grated yam), perfect after a hike. On clear days, the summit offers sweeping views of Tokyo and sometimes even Mount Fuji in the distance.
Where: Mount Takao, Hachioji
Cost: Free hiking; cable car or chair lift ~¥490 one-way
October Autumn Itinerary in Tokyo
Koishikawa Korakoen
October is when the weather really gets cooler, usually settling at under 20°C, and the autumn foliage also starts to show up. In Tokyo, it’s not exactly at peak colors, but you will see the leaves changing to shades of yellows and oranges with occasional reds.
1. Tokyo Jidai Matsuri (東京時代祭)
Held in Asakusa, this “Festival of Historical Periods” celebrates Tokyo’s rich past. Locals parade in costumes from samurai warriors to Edo-period merchants, bringing history to life right before your eyes.
When: Mid-October
Where: Asakusa / Sensoji Temple area
Cost: Free
2. Halloween in Tokyo
Halloween in Japan is truly a testament to Japan’s globalization, as the imported holiday with deep ties to Irish history can now be found throughout Tokyo at the end of October. What started as small gatherings has exploded into some of the largest Halloween celebrations in the world.
Halloween in Shibuya
Halloween in Shibuya is informally organized; there is no single event; rather, there are several Halloween events scattered across the city, with local bars and clubs often hosting costume contests. The streets are filled with people wearing extravagant costumes from cosplay to traditional horror-themed ensembles. The one thing to keep in mind is that the streets get very crowded on Halloween night. The mayor has actually discouraged people from going to Shibuya for Halloween out of safety concerns.
Due to this, rules around pedestrian walking paths and alcoholic beverage services have become much stricter. Now with the Mayor’s announcement, there might be much less turnout this year. So, it might be better and safer to seek out other alternatives this Halloween.
When: October 31
Where: Throughout Shibuya
Cost: Free
Halloween in Ikebukuro
You can also attend the Ikebukuro Halloween Cosplay Festival, or Ikehalo, where thousands of people fill the streets dressed up as their favorite anime or manga character. The event also features exhibition booths, stage events, parades, and photography services. This is one of the biggest Halloween events in Tokyo, where you can gather with your friends dressed as your favorite characters while enjoying the festivities.
When: October 31
Where: Ikebukuro Area
Cost: ¥2700 (general); ¥3800 (premium)
3. First Views of Autumn Leaves
By late October, Tokyo starts turning golden and red, especially in gardens and parks. While not the peak season, the trees at parks are already starting to transform, painting the natural canvas with hues of greens, yellows, and reds (if you can find them). October is a great time for a stroll around the park, and here are the top recommendations:
Showa Kinen Park (昭和記念公園)
One of the largest parks in the Tokyo area, Showa Kinen Park in Tachikawa, is a must-visit in autumn. Its 300-meter ginkgo avenue is the star attraction, where rows of golden trees form a glowing tunnel perfect for photography. The park also has sprawling lawns, ponds, and Japanese gardens, making it a great all-day outing. Seasonal flower fields (like cosmos in October) add another layer of beauty. Because of its size, it never feels too crowded, even on weekends.
Where: Showa Kinen Park, Tachikawa (~40 min from Shinjuku by train)
Cost: ¥450 entry
Koishikawa Korakuen (小石川後楽園)
Dating back to the early Edo period, Koishikawa Korakuen is one of Tokyo’s oldest and most elegant landscape gardens. Designed with Chinese and Japanese aesthetics in mind, it recreates famous scenery from across East Asia in miniature form, from lakes and stone bridges to wooded hills. In autumn, the garden comes alive with vibrant maples and ginkgo trees reflecting in the central pond, creating a painterly scene straight out of a scroll painting. Its calm, historic atmosphere makes it an oasis from the city.
Located on the outskirts, Northwest of Tokyo, Mt. Mitake in Okutama provides a scenic and serene getaway from the bustling city. At only a couple of hours away, the autumn foliage starts to reveal itself a bit earlier up in the mountains. You can admire the colorful leaves, reflecting off Lake Okutama or with the blue waters of the Tamagawa River in the background. You can also immerse yourself in the Koyo (紅葉) while walking on the hiking trails. Okutama is one of the places to soak in the Autumn scenery.
Where: Mitakesan, Ome, Tokyo
Cost: Free
November Autumn Itinerary in Tokyo
Autumn Foliage at Shinjuku Koen
November is the peak season for autumn foliage in Tokyo, with leaves from maple and gingko trees showcasing the full range of colors. The weather is much cooler, so when going out, light jackets or sweaters are recommended.
1. Head to Rikugien Garden (六義園)
Often considered one of Tokyo’s most beautiful landscape gardens, Rikugien is especially famous for its nighttime autumn illuminations. From late November through early December, the garden stays open after dark, and its red and golden maples are reflected in the central pond, glowing under carefully placed spotlights. The garden itself dates back to the Edo period (1702), designed as a strolling garden with paths leading to seasonal “viewing spots.” In autumn, it feels like walking through a living painting.
Where: Rikugien Garden, Bunkyo, Tokyo
Cost: ¥300 entry
2. Visit Shinjuku Gyoen (新宿御苑)
A vast garden right in the heart of the city, Shinjuku Gyoen offers one of Tokyo’s most diverse autumn landscapes. The park blends Japanese, English, and French-style gardens, creating different atmospheres as you stroll through. Wide lawns framed by gingko and maple trees make for sweeping golden-red vistas, while more intimate corners feel peaceful and secluded. Because of its size, the foliage season here lasts longer than at smaller gardens, making it a reliable spot for autumn viewing even into early December.
Where: Shinjuku Gyoen, Shinjuku, Tokyo
Cost: ¥500 entry
3. Autumn Viewing in Inokashira Park (井の頭恩賜公園)
Beloved by locals in Kichijoji, Inokashira Park has a romantic and cozy feel in autumn. Its central pond, surrounded by bright red maples and golden gingko trees, creates one of Tokyo’s most photogenic seasonal scenes. Visitors can even rent rowboats or swan-shaped pedal boats to admire the colors from the water, a great activity for a date. The relaxed, artsy vibe of nearby Kichijoji (with its cafes and boutique shops) makes this an ideal spot for combining nature, culture, and a laid-back afternoon.
Where: Inokashira Park, Kichijoji, Tokyo
Cost: Free
4. Celebrate Shichi-Go-San (七五三)
On November 15, families celebrate children aged 3, 5, and 7 with shrine visits. At Meiji Jingu or Hie Shrine, you’ll see kids in adorable kimonos being photographed with their families in front of the iconic temples and the iconic backdrop of autumn foliage. This is a uniquely beautiful and heartwarming tradition that is great for families with kids ages 3, 5, and 7.
Where: Meiji Jingu Shrine or Hie Shrine
Cost: Free
Seasonal autumn flavors to try in Japan
As the weather cools down from the piping hot summers, certain fall fruits and vegetables are in season. So what seasonal delicacies or hearty foods should we be on the lookout for? With the season allowing for certain hearty fruits and vegetables to thrive, different fall dishes become widely available across the country. We will just introduce a few to get you started, but check the complete guide to autumn flavors in Japan on our blog.
1. Yakiimo (焼き芋)
Sweet potatoes thrive in the milder weather, resulting in a plethora of food trucks, markets, and even discount stores serving 焼き芋 (yakiimo), or roasted sweet potatoes. They are known for their sweet aroma and sweet creamy texture that goes well with butter or even salt and pepper. They are purple and usually yellow on the inside. You can find yakiimo being served freshly roasted or used as the main ingredient in a variety of pastries.
2. Persimmons or Kaki (柿)
Kaki are a popular seasonal fruit in Japan known for the sweet, soft, and jelly-like flesh when ripe. They are orange in color and almost resemble a tomato. They are actually often eaten raw, but can be made into seasonal pastries or made into a jam.
3. Apples or Ringo (りんご)
This wonderfully juicy, sweet, and crispy fruit likely needs no introduction. While they are usually available all year long, they thrive in autumn, so they are even more widely available and perhaps cheaper. During the fall, you’ll see convenience stores and supermarkets in Tokyo selling fresh apples on a much larger scale. Plus, cafes and restaurants will also serve mouth-watering seasonal pastries using this delectable fruit.
4. Chestnuts or Kuri (栗)
Chestnuts can be featured in both sweet and savory dishes. Especially during the fall season, you can find them roasted whole in markets or at street stalls. They are sometimes added to rice, which is called 栗ご飯 (kuri-gohan). Most cafes and bakeries across Tokyo and Japan will make wonderful pastries that are sweet with nutty and earthy flavor profiles.
Enjoy Full Autumn in Japan by Learning Japanese at Coto Academy!
Autumn in Tokyo, with the foliage accompanying the cityscape, is just as beautiful and iconic as sakura in spring. Whether you’re savoring ramen in September, enjoying historical parades in October, or walking through glowing maple gardens in November, there is something for everyone.
The best way to experience fall in Tokyo is to know Japanese, to order chestnut treats, or to walk with your friends among the fall foliage. For practical, conversation-based lessons, check out Japanese courses here at Coto Academy! As the No. 1 Japanese language school, we offer intensive Japanese courses as well as part-time options, so whether you want to immerse yourself fully or fit lessons into a busy schedule, there’s something for you. Start your journey to speaking Japanese confidently today!
Why join Coto Academy?
Over 60+ different Japanese classes over 18 levels
Small classroom of only up to 8 students for personalized support
Professional, native Japanese teachers
FAQ
When is the best time to see autumn leaves in Tokyo?
Peak foliage in Tokyo usually falls between mid-November and early December, though some spots like Mount Takao and Nikko start earlier in late October.
Do I need to pay to enter Tokyo’s autumn gardens and parks?
Many public parks, like Inokashira Park, are free, but traditional gardens such as Shinjuku Gyoen (¥500), Rikugien (¥300), and Koishikawa Korakuen (¥300) charge a small entry fee.
What should I wear for fall activities in Tokyo?
Layers are best. September can still be warm, but by November you’ll want a light jacket for evenings, especially if you’re attending night illuminations or fireworks.
Are Tokyo’s fall festivals free to attend?
Most festivals (like Tokyo Ramen Festa) have free entry, though you’ll pay for food, drinks, or attractions. Expect ramen bowls to cost around ¥800.
Can I take a day trip from Tokyo to see more autumn leaves?
Yes! Popular getaways include Mount Takao (1 hour from Shinjuku), Nikko (2 hours), and Hakone (90 minutes). These spots often peak earlier than central Tokyo, making them great options for October leaf-viewing.
