What it literally says

man

Japanese politeness is mostly built out of phrases that stopped being literal a long time ago. Knowing what is underneath is the difference between repeating a sound and knowing what you said.

When to use it

Usually on a blue noren curtain. The curtains are sometimes swapped between morning and evening.

Next in Onsen and Public Baths

• What time does the bath close?お風呂は何時までですか
• Where do I put my clothes?服はどこに置きますか
• Where do I wash?どこで体を洗いますか
• Where is the changing room?脱衣所はどこですか
• (Women)女
• Are tattoos allowed?タトゥーは大丈夫ですか

The rest of the phrasebook

• Greetings挨拶14
• Thanks and Politeness感謝13
• Apologies謝罪13
• Yes, No and Understanding返事14
• Introductions自己紹介13
• Small Talk雑談13
• Numbers and Counting数14
• Time and Dates時間13
• Asking Directions道案内14
• Trains and Stations電車15
• Taxis and Busesタクシー13
• Hotels and Ryokan宿14
• Restaurants and Ordering食事16
• Allergies and Food Restrictions食事制限13
• Convenience Stores and Shopping買い物14
• Money and Payment支払い13
• Temples and Sightseeing観光13
• Health and Pharmacy体調14
• Emergencies緊急14
• Lost Things and Trouble困りごと13
• Phone and Internet通信12
• Weather and Seasons天気13
• Reactions and Compliments相づち13
• Goodbyes別れ13

All 337 phrases →