What Language Do They Speak in Japan?
Japan
Japan is an island nation located in East Asia, comprising over 6,800 islands, with the four largest being Honshu, Hokkaido, Kyushu, and Shikoku. Known for its rich cultural heritage, Japan seamlessly blends traditional practices with cutting-edge technology and innovation, evidenced by its historic temples standing beside modern skyscrapers. The country is also renowned for its culinary arts, vibrant pop culture, and natural beauty, from the cherry blossoms in spring to the snow-capped mountains in winter.
Languages Spoken
In Japan, the predominant language spoken is Japanese, which is used by 99% of the population. Within Japan, Japanese is the official language for government, media, and education, and is used in all social and cultural interactions. Besides Japanese, there is a small proportion (about 1%) of the population that speaks other languages. These include various dialects of Ryukyuan languages, Korean, and Chinese among certain communities, mostly attributable to economic migration, historical communities, or second languages acquired through education.
Different Languages Spoken in Japan
Language data last updated 2024 est. from World Population Review - Japan
| Language | Usage |
|---|---|
| Japanese | 99% |
| Others | 1% |
Useful Japanese Phrases
こんにちは
Hello
This is a polite way to greet someone during the day.
ありがとう
Thank you
Useful for expressing gratitude in various situations.
いくらですか？
How much does it cost?
Helpful when shopping or inquiring about prices.
すみません
Excuse me / I'm sorry
Can be used to get someone's attention or to apologize.
トイレはどこですか？
Where is the restroom?
A very practical phrase for finding facilities during your travels.
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