What Languages Do They Speak In Japan?
Explore the languages spoken in Japan on an interactive map.
Japan Languages: Quick Facts
Languages
1
Japanese
Population
125,700,000
Cost of living
~ $1845
Index: 36.9
Safety / crime index
Crime Index: 22.9
Do They Speak English in Japan?
English proficiency
Ranked #80 on the EF English Proficiency Index.
In short
You may get by with English in airports, hotels, and larger cities in Japan, but it becomes less reliable outside those areas. Knowing some Japanese is strongly recommended.
FAQ
Japan Language FAQ
Short answers to common questions about the main languages, English usage, and communication in Japan.
People in Japan speak Japanese.
The main language spoken in Japan is Japanese.
Only sometimes. English may work in tourist-facing places, but it is safer to know at least some Japanese.
- What languages do they speak in Japan?
People in Japan speak Japanese.
- What is the main language in Japan?
The main language spoken in Japan is Japanese.
- Can you get by with English in Japan?
Only sometimes. English may work in tourist-facing places, but it is safer to know at least some Japanese.
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