Japan Language: What Do They Speak in Japan?
The official language of Japan is Japanese. In Japanese, the country is called 日本. Japanese is used in government, education, media and everyday life across the country.
🗣️ Language at a Glance
About the Japanese Language
Japanese is spoken by approximately 125 million people, almost exclusively in Japan. It uses three writing systems: Hiragana, Katakana and Kanji. In Japan, Japanese is the primary medium for government administration, the legal system, education and broadcasting. It shapes how the country communicates internally and engages with the wider world.
Language Tips for Visitors to Japan
The official language of Japan is Japanese, which may be unfamiliar to many international travellers. While English speakers can often be found in larger cities and tourist-heavy areas, it is advisable to learn a few basic phrases before your trip. Locals greatly appreciate any effort to use the local language, even if imperfect. Simple greetings, thank-yous and asking for directions in Japanese will go a long way. The country is officially known as 日本 in Japanese, and the international dialling code is +81.
Frequently Asked Questions about Language in Japan
What language do they speak in Japan?
The official language of Japan is Japanese.
Is English spoken in Japan?
English is not an official language in Japan. The main language is Japanese. English may be spoken in tourist areas.
What is Japan called in its own language?
Japan is called "日本" in Japanese.
How many official languages does Japan have?
Japan has one official language: Japanese.
Do I need to speak Japanese to visit Japan?
It is not required but learning basic phrases in Japanese is strongly recommended and appreciated.
What is the calling code for Japan?
The international dialling code for Japan is +81.
What is the population of Japan?
Japan has a population of approximately 125.7M, all of whom use Japanese as the official language.