Modern-life Japanese

Katakana: the script that shows up all over real Japan.

Katakana appears on menus, signs, packages, coffee cups, trains, hotels, and products. It helps beginners read the modern face of Japan.

The first five katakana

アa

イi

ウu

エe

オo

Quick win katakana lesson cards

ホテル

hoteru

hotel

Example: ホテルはどこですか。
Hoteru wa doko desu ka.

When to use it: When asking directions or talking about your hotel.

トイレ

toire

restroom / toilet

Example: トイレはどこですか。
Toire wa doko desu ka.

When to use it: In stations, shops, restaurants, and hotels.

メニュー

menyuu

Example: メニューをお願いします。
Menyuu o onegai shimasu.

When to use it: At cafés and restaurants.

コーヒー

koohii

coffee

Example: コーヒーをください。
Koohii o kudasai.

When to use it: At cafés and convenience stores.

コンビニ

konbini

convenience store

Example: コンビニはどこですか。
Konbini wa doko desu ka.

When to use it: When looking for a convenience store nearby.

Why katakana matters sooner than people think

Many beginners delay katakana, but Japan does not. Katakana is everywhere in everyday life. If you learn it early, travel and shopping become much easier and more fun.