language barriers
 

Thinking about taking a trip to Japan but not sure about language barriers. Is English widely spoken? Also any good websites for attractions and tourist information.

OH boy... it is by far the most dificult country too get around that I have been too.. <BR><BR>even my japanees tour guide stated so.. <BR><BR>I remember the episode where Ian from loney planet was there.. HE most likely has been too more places then I have and he also stated that it is hard getting around.. BUT GO NON THE LESS, Don't let anyone like myself change your mind about going anywhere..

I'd have to disagree with the previous reply, as I've found Japan one of the easiest Asian countries to get around.<BR><BR>Cities and towns almost always have tourist offices proviing plentiful materials in English for free. Larger cities have English-speaking tourist hotlines which you can call with any query. Although the Japanese use two unfamiliar alphabets and Chinese characters to boot, almost every sign also carries Roman spellings.<BR><BR>Away from Tokyo, it's only necessary to pause and look a little puzzled for a few minutes to have someone come and try to help. Ticket vendors, hotel staff, etc. have the patience to try and understand what you want. No one laughs at you for not knowing their language (unlike some other Asian countries I could mention) and no one expects you to get things right. Most restaurants have either picture menus or plastic models of their dishes in the windows--it's easy to order by pointing.<BR><BR>Have a look at:<BR><BR>http://www.jnto.go.jp/eng/<BR><BR>Peter N-H<BR>http://members.axion.net/~pnh/China.html

Karen, English is not widely spoken. However, I learned a few Japanese phrases, and one of this is "do you speak English". Whenever I needed help, I start with that; surprisingly, the majority of my encounters were positive.<BR>(They always reply "a little" even though they know English well enough to have a conversation). I remember reading complaints in this forum how difficult it is to get help; perhaps looking Asian helped me, perhaps Japanese get intimidated by Americans ??<BR>I remember trying to find the train to Kamakura. A train employee did not know English, but he stayed with us until the right train came along.<BR><BR>I did not have problems getting around Tokyo,Osaka, and other major places (even in Fuji) by public transportation. However, not sure about other more remote places.<BR><BR>For info use the website Peter provided below or email/call the closest Japan Tourist office.They provide lots of useful information, including places to stay. There's even a form you can use to have a tourist office in Japan reserve lodgings for you for free.

Karen,<BR><BR>My husband and I just got back from Japan and we didn't have any problems with the language barrier. Neither of us know an ounce of Japanese but we still managed with very little stress. Even though I was constantly mistaken for Japanese, everyone we encountered tried very hard to be helpful when they realized that I wasn't. There are also many signed with Roman characters that will help, you just have to learn where to look. Even in the more remote places (we went to Takayama) where less English is spoken, I found that sign language and a few well-known English words (e.g. toilet) were quite sufficient.<BR><BR>A quick word on train travel: If you have a JR pass, the easiest thing to do is to make all your reservations at one of the JR offices where there is usually someone who speaks English. <BR><BR>I think you should go for it and not worry too much about the language problem. You'll have a great time!

I'll agree with the the rest that your not teased if you don't know the language.. and you will be helped even if they have too grab you by the arm and lead you toward the general direction.. <BR><BR>But I'll keep too the fact that it dificult.. I'm a backpacker so I kind have too face some situation head on.<BR><BR>The last time I was there was in March.. So may'be during the World Cup they started adding more ROMAN charector maps/signs in the subways and other areas. <BR><BR>

Thanks for all of your info. It was my turning point in deciding that I could handle the limitations. Been to many countries where a few phrases and sign language got me bye, but never to an Asian country. Thanks again and I'll check out the websites.

I first went to Japan as a 25 yo backpacker. I had very little trouble getting around. A sense of humour and a phrase book go a long way. The Japanese are almost always happy to help and I never felt cheated or misled as I have in other Asian countries.<BR><BR>Take a paper and pencil. Most people read more than they will speak. It is also helps to have someone write down the kanji for your destination or subway stop.<BR><BR>

I find that with a phrase book and travel guide, you're be fine. Most people do speak a little English, but they won't understand whole sentences and are often very shy. But they are always polite. Use simple words or write things down if you need to ask for anything.

Bonjour All,<BR><BR>A great help is the "Tourist's Language Handbook" booklet you can get for free from the Japan National Tourist Organization (JNTO) either in your country (look at www.jnto.go.jp for local addresses) or from the TIC in Japan.