General Tokyo Info
 

Hi there. I'm thinking about taking a trip to Tokyo next year to visit my brother. I was wondering how hard it is to travel around the city if you can't speak or read the language? Do you find that many people know a little english? Are some of the signs etc..posted in english? Any general insights would be great.

Hi Sandi, <BR> <BR>Around Tokyo, many people in hotels and stores speak some English, especially the younger generation. Unfortunately, this does not apply to the small towns, where no one appears to understand a single word. Also, don't expect all Tokyo cab drivers to understand English. <BR> <BR>Signs in major hotels, menus in hotel restaurants, and directions at the airport will be in English. In the smaller restaurants, you can sometimes order by pointing to items in a display window. <BR> <BR>I would recommend picking up a Japanese phrasebook to help you get around - you can always point to the Japanese translation beside the English phrase. And most Japanese who speak English would only be too happy to practise on a foreigner. <BR> <BR>At the top of the Asia Forum, you can access "topic search" and select messages related to Japan. There are many tips that you may find useful. <BR> <BR>Feel free to email me if you have further questions. <BR> <BR>Regards, <BR>Sherman <BR>

The above has been my experience, as well. I would add that the Old Shinjuku side of the tracks is the closest you'll come to a small town atmosphere within Tokyo city limits. <BR> <BR>I never had a problem with language--the only thing I ever learned was phonetic Hi, ohio, domo arrigato and a few others--itsa big place with lots of westernization going on!

If you can stay with your brother then you are crazy not to take advantage of the opportunity! Tokyo is a true experience but its very expensive so make sure you can afford to enjoy it. Its easy to get around the trains and subways - signs are all posted in English. I find it a bit harder to find people who speak English but you will be surprised how much can be communicated with pointing and charades. Look into buying a JR rail pass before you get to Japan if you plan on going outside Tokyo (which I recommend) because it will be cheaper in the long run.

hello, <BR>almost all of the street signs in tokyo are in japanese, and cabs are very expensive, the best way to get around the city is by taking the subway. most of the signs in the subway are in english. a lot of the hotels in tokyo are western hotels, so many of the hotel staff are able to speak english. <BR>sincerely, <BR>stephen