You do not need to speak Japanese to enjoy Tokyo, but a few tools and words help.
Apps worth having
- Maps and transit: Google Maps works well for routes, platforms and timings.
- Translation: a translation app with camera mode is useful for menus and signs.
- IC card: add Suica or PASMO to your phone wallet to ride and pay by tapping.
A few useful phrases
- Sumimasen — excuse me / sorry (very versatile).
- Arigato gozaimasu — thank you.
- Onegaishimasu — please.
- Eigo no menu wa arimasu ka? — Do you have an English menu?
- Eki wa doko desu ka? — Where is the station?
Good to know
Many restaurants have photo menus or ticket machines, and staff are used to helping visitors. Pointing, a translation app and a friendly sumimasen will get you through almost anything.