Why it matters: Polite greetings and essential phrases help travelers connect with locals, avoid misunderstandings, and navigate Japan more smoothly. What to learn: Start with greetings like ohayō ...

Why it matters: Speaking basic Japanese shows respect, helps you navigate daily situations, and often leads to warmer, more helpful interactions with locals. What to learn: Focus on greetings, polite ...

Yoshikai Akira promotes yasashii Nihongo (simple Japanese) as head of the Yasashii Nihongo Promotion Network. In this article ...