3名です。禁煙席でお願いします
さんめいです。きんえんせきでおねがいします
Three people, non-smoking section please.
POINTThere are many stores that allow smoking. Feel safe if you clearly state "non-smoking seats"
Tourism/Travel
Nightlife
Master the Japanese you need for Nightlife in natural keigo. Scene-by-scene flow · NG examples · politeness levels · 9-language parallel translations
This page helps foreign residents and long-term visitors handle "Nightlife" with daily Japanese phrases for living in Japan, practical examples, and common mistakes to avoid.
What this page helps you say in Japan
This page focuses on Nightlife and teaches useful Japanese phrases for daily life in Japan, including natural replies, polite alternatives, and practical wording for foreigners living in Japan.
What You'll Learn on This Page
- How to enter an izakaya and choose a seat
- Understanding Otoshi and Otoshi charges
- Order all-you-can-drink/all-you-can-eat
- Accounting, bill splitting, credit card support
- Last train/taxi/karaoke invitation
Practice Phrases (10 Total)
お通しはキャンセルできますか
おとおしはきゃんせるできますか
Can I decline the otoshi (table charge)?
POINTOtoshi is a type of seat fee. Cancellations may not be possible depending on the store.
飲み放題2時間コースをお願いします
のみほうだいにじかんこーすをおねがいします
The 2-hour all-you-can-drink course, please.
POINTCheck start time. Last orders are often taken 15 minutes before closing.
おすすめの日本酒はありますか
おすすめのにほんしゅはありますか
Do you have a recommended sake?
POINTExpand your conversation by listening to the differences between dry and sweet flavors and regions.
お水をいただけますか
おみずをいただけますか
Could I have water please?
POINTThe free ``ohiya'' service is unique to Japan.
別々に会計できますか
べつべつにかいけいできますか
Can we pay separately?
POINT“Splitting the bill” → “paying separately” is easier to convey to the store.
クレジットカードは使えますか
くれじっとかーどはつかえますか
Can I pay by credit card?
POINTThere are still many izakayas that only accept cash. Advance confirmation required
終電は何時ですか
しゅうでんはなんじですか
What time is the last train?
POINTAsk the station staff/clerk and they will tell you. The route app is also convenient.
このへんでタクシーを拾えますか
このへんでたくしーをひろえますか
Can I catch a taxi around here?
POINTThere are many sinks in downtown areas. Apps (GO etc.) are also convenient.
二次会に行きませんか
にじかいにいきませんか
Shall we go for a second round?
POINTA standard Japanese drink. Karaoke, bars, and ramen are popular
Want to practice these phrases out loud?
ECHO app offers native audio and AI pronunciation feedback for real practice.
Practice with ECHO App →Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What is Otoshi?
A. It is a small side dish served as a table charge at an izakaya, and the standard price is around 300 to 500 yen per person. It will be automatically added to your bill even if you have not ordered it.
Q. Are there strict time limits for all-you-can-drink?
A. Yes, last orders are often taken 15 minutes before closing time, and there may be additional charges for exceeding that time. Please check the time of entry.
Q. Do I need a tip?
A. Not necessary. Some high-end restaurants automatically add a service charge (around 10%), but there is no need to tip separately.
Q. Are there any stores that are closed to foreigners?
A. It is available in some areas (mainly late-night members only clubs, etc.). If you choose a restaurant with an English menu, you will often be welcomed.
Q. How late night are you open?
A. In the downtown area, there are many izakayas, bars, and ramen shops that are open until the morning. In rural areas, they often close between 23:00 and 0:00.