What Language Do They Speak in Japan?
Facts last checked 9 October 2026.
The official language of Japan is Japanese.
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Languages of Japan at a glance
| Official language | Japanese |
|---|---|
| Number of official languages | 1 |
| Countries on this site where Japanese is official | 1 |
| People (demonym) | Japanese |
| Capital | Tokyo |
| Internet domain | .jp |
Japan in context
- Japan covers 377,930 kmΒ², making it the 62nd largest of the 196 countries on this site.
- Its population density of about 326 people per kmΒ² ranks 27th of 196 (1st = most crowded).
- Japan has no land borders with other countries on this site.
- With 123,210,000 people, Japan holds about 7.5% of the population of Eastern Asia.
- Traffic drives on the left, and calendars start the week on Monday.
- Japan is a member state of the United Nations.
Compare Japan
Useful phrases for visitors to Japan
Everyday Japanese phrases you will hear and use in Japan:
| English | Japanese |
|---|---|
| Hello | γγγ«γ‘γ― (konnichiwa) |
| Thank you | γγγγ¨γ (arigatΕ) |
| Please | γι‘γγγΎγ (onegaishimasu) |
| Goodbye | γγγγͺγ (sayΕnara) |
| Yes | γ―γ (hai) |
| No | γγγ (iie) |
Spellings can vary by region, and some languages use different forms for formal or informal speech. Even a simple greeting in the local language is usually appreciated.
Languages in Japan β FAQ
What language do they speak in Japan?
The official language of Japan is Japanese.
How many official languages does Japan have?
Japan has 1 official language: Japanese.
Is Japanese spoken anywhere else?
Japan is the only country on this site where Japanese is an official language.
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