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Station language

Train Japanese: the language that turns giant stations into something manageable.

Stations in Japan can feel huge at first, but the words repeat. Learn a few high-value terms and phrases, and you can move with much more confidence.

Five quick win train lessons

えき
eki
station
Example: 駅はどこですか。
Eki wa doko desu ka.
When to use it: When asking where the station is.
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 big buildings.
いりぐち
iriguchi
entrance
Example: 入口はこちらです。
Iriguchi wa kochira desu.
When to use it: When reading signs or following directions.
きっぷ
kippu
ticket
Example: 切符をください。
Kippu o kudasai.
When to use it: When buying a paper ticket.
ホーム
hoomu
platform
Example: 何番ホームですか。
Nanban hoomu desu ka.
When to use it: When finding where to board the train.

Three very useful train phrases

なんばんホームですか。
Nanban hoomu desu ka.
Which platform is it?
Example: 何番ホームですか。
Nanban hoomu desu ka.
When to use it: When you know the train but not the platform.
このでんしゃはとうきょうへいきますか。
Kono densha wa Toukyou e ikimasu ka.
Does this train go to Tokyo?
Example: この電車は東京へ行きますか。
Kono densha wa Toukyou e ikimasu ka.
When to use it: When checking if you are on the correct train.
でぐちはどこですか。
Deguchi wa doko desu ka.
Where is the exit?
Example: 出口はどこですか。
Deguchi wa doko desu ka.
When to use it: When leaving a station or finding the correct side of it.