Visual Japanese

Reading Signs: one of the fastest ways to feel more independent in Japan.

Even if full conversation feels hard, signs can start helping you almost immediately. Learn the most common sign words and the physical world becomes easier to read.

Five quick win sign lessons

入口

いりぐち

iriguchi

entrance

Example: 入口はこちらです。
Iriguchi wa kochira desu.

When to use it: On building and station entrances.

出口

でぐち

deguchi

exit

Example: 出口はどこですか。
Deguchi wa doko desu ka.

When to use it: In stations, malls, and public buildings.

駅

えき

eki

station

Example: 駅はどこですか。
Eki wa doko desu ka.

When to use it: In travel areas and on maps.

注意

ちゅうい

chuui

caution

Example: 注意してください。
Chuui shite kudasai.

When to use it: On warning signs and safety notices.

禁止

きんし

kinshi

prohibited

Example: 立入禁止。
Tachiiri kinshi.

When to use it: When something is not allowed.

Useful restroom and public signs

男

おとこ

otoko

male / men

Example: 男 / 女
Otoko / Onna

When to use it: On restroom signs.

女

おんな

onna

female / women

Example: 男 / 女
Otoko / Onna

When to use it: On restroom signs.

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 public places, stations, and shops.