How do people go on holiday in Japan without knowing the language?
Basically, you need to do some homework with regards to where you will go and visit. A guide book will help you the most in that respect. The train system is extensive, efficient and all signs are in Japanese and English. The ticket vending machines have an option to switch to English and the staff at the bullet train counters can understand English. You can also write your ticket bullet train ticket requests in English and they will understand. When it comes to eating at restaurants, you may have to walk around and look for a place that has picture menus. Usually restaurants display out front the menu and also models that look like the dishes they serve. Major hotel staff can communicate in English. Usually the hotel can also help you with booking a day tour. Ask if they have an English guided tour. In 2003 I moved the entire family to Japan as a part of my corporate assignment. My did not speak Japanese at that time. Show would speak slowly and clearly without sounding condescending.
I only know the basic Japanese greetings. That’s about it. Still, I was afraid to use them for fear of being mistaken for a Japanese. I am Asian and twice I was mistaken for a being a Japanese. A couple of Japanese lost in Ueno station on separate occasions asked me for directions. Me, of all people! I am afraid if I use some Japanese words, they would assume I am Japanese and start talking to me in Japanese and I would be like O_o. Not good I know. I don’t have any confidence in talking Japanese. Besides, it’s not like the Japanese would want to strike conversation with me since I don’t look “foreign”. Not one they would want to practice their English with. LOL! No worries though. The subway system has English translations everywhere. For food, I can just point, some restaurants have English menus. Oh, and some Japanese actually can speak English! I encountered more citizens in Japan who can speak English than when I was in South Korea and China.
