Have you ever been visiting a friend in The Orient and wished you could leave a message with one of those lovely Japanese greetings? Or perhaps you've wanted to lead in with a hip phrase like, "What's happening?" or "What's new?" Well, this is just the article you've been waiting for! Here are "10 Things to Say When You're in Japan" that will show your Japanese savoir-faire!

Here are some great examples to use when greeting a friend -- or even a new acquaintance -- in Japan:

• Ohayou
  This means: Good Morning
• Konnichiwa
  This means: Good Afternoon
• Konbanwa
  This means: Good Evening

Those are more formal greetings and are good for nearly all occasions. Here are a few examples of a more relaxed greeting that you could use with a friend or loved one in a relaxed setting:

• Nanika atta?
  This means: What's Up?
• Dou shiteru?
  This means: How's Everything?
• Kawatta koto aru?
  This means: What's New?

And here are a few great exit lines that will make you look like the ultimate Japan-o-phile:

• Dewa mata!
  This means: See You!
• Ki o tsukete
  This means: Take Care
• Sayounara
  This means: So Long
• Yoi ichinichi o
  This means: Have a nice day

And this is so important -- just in case you arrive after a full tea ceremony that has gone on for the last 5 hours:

• Toire wa doko desu ka?
  This means: Where is the toilet?

So there you are! 10 (or 11!) Things to Say When You're in Japan that will contribute to your scholarly appeal and will be appreciated by any Japanese person on the block -- as they probably don't know what to say either! *w* Good luck, and happy visiting!

Resources:
Japanese Phrases
Simple Japanese Phrases