Language Guide for Ramen Tourists: Essential Japanese Phrases for Tourists When Ordering Ramen

There’s a special kind of magic that happens when you step into an authentic ramen shop in Japan. The air is rich with the aroma of simmering pork broth, the chef moves with quiet precision, and the room fills with the melodic sound of noodles being slurped.

But for a first-time visitor who doesn’t yet speak Japanese, that magic can come with a touch of anxiety. You might feel confused when navigating a ramen shop or facing a vending ticket machine covered in Japanese characters, or a smiling chef asking a question ending with “ka” that you don’t understand.

This guide is your insider’s toolkit to using Japanese phrases for tourists — practical, polite, and designed for ramen lovers. We’ll explain the context and usage of key Japanese phrases so you can overcome language barriers with ease.

Introduction to Japanese Language — Your First Step to Ramen Adventure

Embarking on a ramen adventure in Japan is about more than just tasting delicious noodles—it’s about immersing yourself in the local culture, and that starts with the Japanese language. Even if you only know a handful of basic Japanese phrases, such as “konnichiwa” (hello), “arigatou gozaimasu” (thank you), and “sumimasen” (excuse me), you’ll find your travel experience becomes much richer. These simple words show respect for the local language and make it easier to connect with Japanese people, whether you’re navigating busy train stations, exploring shopping areas, or stepping into cozy ramen restaurants.

Step 1: Entering the Shop — Greetings and Basic Japanese Phrases

Your ramen journey begins as soon as you slide open the door or part the noren (fabric curtain). You’ll likely be greeted with a bright “Irasshaimase!” (ee-rah-shy-mah-seh), meaning “Welcome!” This is a common Japanese expression used by staff to warmly welcome customers.

Here’s how to answer in basic Japanese (be sure to pronounce each syllable clearly, as Japanese pronunciation is straightforward and helps you be understood):

• Hitori desu. (hee-toh-ree dess) – “One person.”
• Futari desu. (foo-tah-ree dess) – “Two people.”
• San-nin desu. (sahn-neen dess) – “Three people.”

These are among the most useful Japanese phrases and expressions for travelers — you’ll also hear them in other restaurants, cafés, or even when reserving tables.

Step 2: Ticket Machine or Counter Service — Learning the Japanese Language of Ramen Ordering

Most ramen shops in Japan fall into two categories:

1. Ticket machine (kenbāiki) shops. The word 'kenbāiki' means 'ticket machine' in Japanese and is pronounced as 'ken-bye-kee', with each syllable clearly enunciated. Japanese words are made up of syllables, and understanding how to pronounce each syllable helps with correct pronunciation.
2. Counter service shops.

Navigating the Ticket Machine

Many shops — especially near train stations like Shinjuku Station — use vending machines to simplify the process.

Look for these words commonly written in Japanese language characters:

• ラーメン (Rāmen): Ramen (the general term).
• 塩 (Shio): Salt flavor.
• 醤油 (Shōyu): Soy sauce flavor.
• 味噌 (Miso): Miso flavor.
• 豚骨 (Tonkotsu): Rich pork bone broth.

Common toppings:

• 味玉 (Ajitama): Seasoned egg.
• チャーシュー (Chāshū): Braised pork.
• 海苔 (Nori): Seaweed.
• 替玉 (Kaedama): Extra noodles.

Simply insert your cash, press the button for your chosen dish, and hand your ticket to the staff. Many machines now offer English translations, but knowing the basic Japanese names helps when they’re not available.

Step 3: Ordering Directly — How to Speak Japanese to the Chef

If there’s no machine, it’s your time to shine with your new Japanese phrases. To get the staff’s attention, say: “Sumimasen!” (sue-me-mah-sen) – “Excuse me.”

Then, order with: [Item] o onegai shimasu. – “[Item], please.”

Example: “Shōyu rāmen o onegai shimasu.” – “Shoyu ramen, please.”

If you’re not confident in your pronunciation or if there’s a language barrier, try pointing to menu items or pictures to help communicate your order.

Feeling unsure? Ask for their recommendation: “Osusume wa nan desu ka?” (oh-sue-sue-meh wah nahn dess kah) – “What do you recommend?”

This question is one of the most polite Japanese phrases for tourists — a great way to show interest in the chef’s food and culture.

Step 4: Customizing Your Bowl — Mastering the Basic Japanese Phrases for Flavor

Many ramen-ya let you personalize your noodles, broth, and even choose your favorite topping to enhance your ramen. This is when you might hear: “Men no katasa wa?” – “How firm would you like your noodles?”

Options:

• Barikata: Extra firm.
• Katame: Firm.
• Futsū: Normal.
• Yawarakame: Soft.

Some customization options may have Japanese words that sound similar, so listen carefully to avoid confusion.

Then, you might hear: “Aji no kosa wa?” – “How strong do you want the flavor?” and “Abura no ryō wa?” – “How much oil?”

Choose from Koime (stronger), Usui (lighter), or Futsū (normal).

If you forget the words, just say “Futsū de onegai shimasu” (“Normal, please”). It’s a phrase every ramen lover should memorize.

Step 5: Kaedama and Extra Noodles — The Joy of Saying “More!”

If you’re down to your last few noodles but still have broth, order kaedama — an extra serving of noodles.

Say:
“Kaedama, onegai shimasu!” – “Extra noodles, please!”

This phrase is unique to ramen culture, especially in Hakata-style tonkotsu shops. It’s one of those special moments that makes Japanese dining so interactive and fun.

Step 6: Dining Etiquette — Showing Gratitude Beyond Arigatou Gozaimasu

Dining in Japan is about respect and appreciation. Here’s how to show it:

✅ Slurp your noodles! In Japanese culture, slurping is polite — it cools noodles and shows you’re enjoying the flavor.

✅ Don’t linger. Ramen is a quick, hot dish — enjoy it while it’s at its best.

✅ Say “Itadakimasu!” before eating. It’s one of the most beautiful Japanese phrases, meaning “I humbly receive.” This is said before you eat, similar to the French “bon appétit.”

✅ Say “Gochisōsama deshita!” after finishing. It’s the proper way to thank the chef for the meal — just like saying “Arigatou gozaimasu” (“Thank you very much!”).

Rice is a staple in Japanese meals and holds deep cultural significance, often served with most dishes and central to traditional eating etiquette.

Pro tip: If you’re at an izakaya (a Japanese pub serving alcoholic beverages like beer or sake), you’ll hear people cheer with “Kanpai!” – the Japanese way to say “Cheers!” Drinking etiquette is important in Japan, such as pouring drinks for others and waiting for everyone to be served before making a toast. When ordering drinks, specify the number by saying, for example, “biiru ni-hai” (two beers), using counters like “-hai” for cups or glasses.

Complimentary (free) items like water or small side dishes (otoshi) are often provided in Japanese dining, adding extra value to your meal.

Step 7: Paying and Leaving — Practice Your Basic Japanese Language Skills

If your ramen shop didn’t use a vending machine, go to the register when you’re done and say:
“Okaikei, onegai shimasu.” – “The bill, please.”

Pay in cash (most ramen-ya still prefer it). Before leaving, a warm “Arigatou gozaimasu!” is always appreciated — a small word that carries big meaning.

Getting There: Transportation Phrases for Ramen Seekers

Before you can enjoy a steaming bowl of ramen, you’ll need to navigate Japan’s impressive train system. Major train stations like Shinjuku Station in Tokyo can be bustling and confusing, especially for first-time visitors. That’s where a few essential Japanese phrases come in handy. If you want to tell someone your destination, try saying “ni ikitai” (I want to go to…) followed by the place name. When buying a ticket, “ikura desuka?” (how much is it?) is a must-know phrase for checking prices.

If you’re unsure where to go, don’t be shy about asking “wa doko desu ka?” (where is…?)—for example, “Shinjuku Station wa doko desu ka?” Locals are generally helpful and will do their best to point you in the right direction. Japan’s train network is extensive, so having these phrases ready can make your journey much smoother. It’s also a good idea to download a translation app or keep a phrasebook handy for more complex situations.

Lost and Hungry? Asking for Directions to the Nearest Ramen Shop

Even the most prepared traveler can get turned around in Japan’s lively cities. If you find yourself lost and craving ramen, don’t worry—asking for directions is easy with a few basic Japanese phrases. Start with a polite “sumimasen” (excuse me) to get someone’s attention, then ask “ramen wa doko desu ka?” (where is the ramen?). Japanese people are generally very helpful, and even if they don’t speak English, they’ll often point you in the right direction or even walk you part of the way.

Step 8: Your Namae wa, Wa Doko Desu Ka, and Nanji Desu Ka Cheat Sheet

Here are other handy basic Japanese phrases that make travel easier — from shopping to navigating train stations:

• Namae wa [your name] desu. – “My name is [your name].”
• [Place] wa doko desu ka? – “Where is [place]?”
• Example: “Shinjuku Station wa doko desu ka?” – “Where is Shinjuku Station?”
• Ikura desu ka? – “How much is it?” (useful while shopping).

These are simple, helpful phrases that every traveler can memorize — even if you’re just beginning to study Japanese or following a video guide to practice pronunciation.

Step 9: Putting It All Together — A Traveler’s Japanese Phrases Table

Note: The Japanese words above are pronounced as shown in the Pronunciation column. Pay special attention to "Sumimasen" (pronounced sue-me-mah-sen) and "Itadakimasu" (pronounced ee-tah-dah-kee-mass), as the "u" at the end is often very soft or almost silent in natural speech.

Step 10: Conclusion — Go Forth, Speak Japanese, and Slurp Proudly

Ordering ramen is more than just eating — it’s a gateway into Japanese culture, connection, and warmth. Don’t fear mistakes. Even if your pronunciation isn’t perfect, your effort to speak Japanese is what counts.

So next time you walk into a ramen shop in Japan, take a deep breath, remember your basic Japanese phrases, and enjoy every bite of your perfectly cooked noodles.

Your journey through Japanese cuisine starts with one simple phrase — and one unforgettable bowl.