Japanese Signs: You Might See Hiragana Words On Your Commute
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Time to read 4 min
If you’ve ever traveled or lived in Japan, you know that Japanese signs are everywhere — from train stations to vending machines, convenience stores, and public buildings. While many major cities include English translations, understanding the Hiragana you see around you can make your commute smoother and your experience much more immersive.
This guide will help you recognize some common Hiragana words that often appear on Japanese signs — perfect for learners who want to build real-life reading skills and confidence in daily life.
Why Understanding Japanese Signs Matters
Learning Japanese through textbooks is great, but reading real Japanese signs brings your skills to life. When you can understand a sign at a station, an elevator, or even a restroom, you’re no longer just memorizing words — you’re living the language.
Recognizing Hiragana words on Japanese signs also helps you:
Navigate transportation systems independently.
Understand instructions and safety information.
Catch cultural nuances hidden in everyday words.
Gain reading fluency faster through real-world context.
Common Hiragana Words You’ll See in Train Stations
Japan’s train system is one of the most efficient in the world, but for beginners, it can be confusing. Learning key Hiragana words on Japanese signs can make your daily commute much easier.
| Hiragana | English Meaning | Where You’ll See It |
|---|---|---|
| のりば (noriba) | Boarding area/platform | Train and bus stations |
| いりぐち (iriguchi) | Entrance | Station gates, malls, buildings |
| でぐち (deguchi) | Exit | Station exits, stores |
| まどぐち (madoguchi) | Ticket counter/window | JR offices, subway stations |
| きっぷ (kippu) | Ticket | Ticket machines, counters |
When you start recognizing these words on Japanese signs, you’ll be able to move around stations more confidently without depending on English translations.
Hiragana You Might See on Safety or Instruction Signs
Safety is taken very seriously in Japan. You’ll often see clear Japanese signs reminding people of what to do — and what not to do.
| Hiragana | English Meaning | Where You’ll See It |
|---|---|---|
| あぶない (abunai) | Dangerous | Construction areas, near train tracks |
| とまれ (tomare) | Stop | Roads, intersections |
| はしるな (hashiruna) | Don’t run | Station platforms, hallways |
| きをつけて (ki o tsukete) | Be careful | Public areas, stairways |
| たちいりきんし (tachiiri kinshi) | No entry | Restricted zones |
Even if you can’t read the full kanji sentences yet, knowing these Hiragana words gives you immediate context when looking at Japanese signs — which can even help you stay safe.
Useful Hiragana in Shops and Public Spaces
Whether you’re in a convenience store or department store, many Japanese signs use Hiragana for clarity and friendliness.
| Hiragana | English Meaning | Where You’ll See It |
|---|---|---|
| うりば (uriba) | Sales area/section | Department stores |
| ひらいてください (hiraite kudasai) | Please open | Doors, packages |
| しめてください (shimete kudasai) | Please close | Doors, windows |
| あいています (aiteimasu) | Open | Shop entrances |
| しまっています (shima tteimasu) | Closed | Shop entrances |
Japanese uses Hiragana for politeness and approachability. So even if you don’t read kanji, you’ll still understand much of what Japanese signs are saying just from these Hiragana clues.
Everyday Hiragana on Transportation and Streets
While traveling around cities, you’ll encounter signs that guide your direction, schedule, and even your manners.
| Hiragana | English Meaning | Where You’ll See It |
|---|---|---|
| のぼり (nobori) | Upward / Toward Tokyo | Train platforms, escalators |
| くだり (kudari) | Downward / Away from Tokyo | Train platforms |
| つぎは (tsugi wa) | Next is… | On trains and buses |
| おりぐち (origuchi) | Exit (from train/bus) | Inside vehicles |
| まもなく (mamonaku) | Soon / Shortly | Train announcements, screens |
Once you start spotting these Hiragana on Japanese signs, your understanding of directions and schedules will improve dramatically — and you’ll feel more connected to your surroundings.
Cultural Phrases Often Written in Hiragana
Japanese culture values politeness, and you’ll often see gentle, polite expressions written in Hiragana on Japanese signs to make the message feel warm and soft.
| Hiragana | English Meaning | Common Context |
|---|---|---|
| ありがとうございます (arigatou gozaimasu) | Thank you | Shops, stations |
| ごめんなさい (gomen nasai) | Sorry | Customer notices |
| いらっしゃいませ (irasshaimase) | Welcome | Stores, restaurants |
| またきてください (mata kite kudasai) | Please come again | Shop exits |
| おねがいします (onegai shimasu) | Please | Requests, reminders |
These words show how Hiragana isn’t just functional — it’s emotional. Reading them on Japanese signs gives you insight into how language reflects Japan’s kindness and respect for others.
How to Practice Reading Japanese Signs Every Day
If you’re living in Japan or studying Japanese abroad, try these tips to improve your ability to read Japanese signs naturally:
- Take photos of signs you see and review them later.
- Read out loud — it helps you remember pronunciation.
- Group similar signs together (e.g., all train-related words).
- Use flashcards — visual repetition builds recognition faster.
- Challenge yourself to go one day without relying on English translations.
You’ll be amazed at how much Hiragana you can recognize after just a few weeks of conscious practice.
FAQ: Understanding Japanese Signs
Why are so many Japanese signs written in Hiragana?
Hiragana is simple, friendly, and easy for everyone — including children and foreigners — to read. It makes communication clear and polite.
Do Japanese signs always include English translations?
Not always. Major cities like Tokyo and Osaka often include English, but smaller towns or local trains might not. Knowing Hiragana is essential.
Should I learn Kanji too?
Yes, eventually. But starting with Hiragana on Japanese signs helps you build confidence before diving into Kanji complexity.
Are there any apps or tools that help with reading signs?
Yes — but even better, physical flashcards or visual tools help you retain information longer and connect written words with real objects.
