Useful Phrases for Hotels and Cafes

Welcome to Wordy Wednesday, where I share practical Japanese words and phrases to help you navigate everyday situations. This week, let’s focus on some useful expressions for hotels and cafes—two places where these phrases can make your experience smoother and more enjoyable.

At the Hotel

Checking In

• よやくがあります (Yoyaku ga arimasu) – I have a reservation.
• チェックインをおねがいします (Chekkuin o onegaishimasu) – I’d like to check in, please.
• へやはなんかいですか？ (Heya wa nan-kai desu ka?) – What floor is the room on?

These phrases helped me get through the check-in process without any confusion. Even if the staff speaks English, starting with Japanese is always appreciated.

Asking for Help

• Wi-Fiのパスワードはなんですか？ (Wi-Fi no pasuwādo wa nan desu ka?) – What is the Wi-Fi password?
• タクシーをよんでください (Takushī o yonde kudasai) – Please call a taxi.

When staying at hotels, these simple phrases made it easy to get assistance when needed.

At the Cafe

Ordering

• これをください (Kore o kudasai) – I’ll take this, please.
• コーヒーをください (Kōhī o kudasai) – Coffee, please.
• おみずをおねがいします (O-mizu o onegaishimasu) – Water, please.

When ordering, pointing to items on the menu and pairing it with “これをください” always worked perfectly for me.

Other Useful Phrases

• おすすめはなんですか？ (Osusume wa nan desu ka?) – What do you recommend?
• おかいけいをおねがいします (O-kaikei o onegaishimasu) – The check, please.

Whether I was at a small café or a chain, these phrases helped me navigate the ordering and payment process smoothly.

What I Learned

Having a few key phrases ready for hotels and cafes can make interactions much easier and less stressful. Starting conversations in Japanese shows respect and often leads to more positive experiences.

Tips for Practice

1. Use Role-Playing: Practice these phrases at home by pretending to check in or order food.
2. Combine with Gestures: Pointing while using these phrases helps communicate effectively.
3. Keep It Simple: Don’t worry about being perfect—most people will appreciate your effort.