24 Essential Japanese Phrases for Checking In & Out

Traveling to Japan soon? Getting your check-in and check-out phrases down can make the experience smoother and way more enjoyable.

Whether you’re staying at a ryokan, a business hotel, or a cozy guesthouse, knowing the right words helps you connect with staff and makes your stay stress-free. Plus, it just feels good to speak the local language a little!

This list of 24 essential Japanese phrases covers everything from casual greetings to polite formalities. It’s perfect for beginners and travelers who want to sound friendly and respectful.

You’ll find simple pronunciation guides, easy-to-understand explanations, and practical tips so you can use these phrases confidently. Imagine walking up to the front desk and knowing exactly what to say—that’s the goal here.

Learning these phrases not only helps with communication but also shows your appreciation for Japanese culture, which locals always notice and appreciate. It’s a win-win!

Ready to dive in? Let’s get you speaking Japanese like a pro during your check-in and check-out moments.

Getting Comfortable with Japanese Check-In Basics

Starting with simple greetings and common expressions can set the tone for a smooth check-in.

Using basic phrases helps break the ice and shows politeness right from the start. These phrases are easy to learn and will boost your confidence when dealing with hotel staff.

It’s less about perfect grammar and more about being understood clearly and respectfully.

Sometimes, using a great beginner phrasebook can give you a perfect starting point for a cohesive understanding.

Remember, small phrases can open big doors in communication.

Practice these basics aloud whenever you can—it’s an easy habit that makes a big difference.

Part 1: Casual Suggestions

1. こんにちは (Konnichiwa) — Hello / Good afternoon

This is your go-to casual greeting during the day.

“Konnichiwa” literally means “today” + “day,” but it’s used just like “hello” or “good afternoon.” It’s simple and friendly, perfect for casual interactions.

Using this makes you sound warm and approachable right away.

It’s a great phrase to practice because it’s used a lot in daily life.

Related phrase: “おはようございます (Ohayō gozaimasu)” means “Good morning” and is used earlier in the day.

Start your check-in by smiling and saying “konnichiwa” to create a positive vibe.

2. チェックインをお願いします (Chekku in o onegaishimasu) — Check-in please

This phrase directly asks for check-in politely.

“Chekku in” is the Japanese pronunciation of “check-in,” and “o onegaishimasu” means “please” or “I request.” It’s a polite and straightforward way to start the process.

It’s easy to remember because it combines English loanwords with a polite phrase.

Don’t forget the “o” particle before “onegaishimasu,” which adds respect.

Example: When you approach the counter, say “Chekku in o onegaishimasu” with a smile.

This phrase is a must-know and sets a respectful tone for your stay.

3. 予約しています (Yoyaku shiteimasu) — I have a reservation

Use this phrase to let staff know you already booked a room.

“Yoyaku” means “reservation” and “shiteimasu” means “am doing” or “have done.” Together, it communicates “I have a reservation.”

It’s a clear and professional way to start your check-in conversation.

It helps avoid confusion, especially if the hotel is busy.

Pro tip: Say your name after this phrase to help staff find your booking.

Confidence with this phrase speeds up your check-in process.

4. パスポートを見せてもいいですか？ (Pasupōto o misete mo ii desu ka?) — May I show you my passport?

This polite question is useful when staff ask to see your passport.

“Pasupōto” is passport, “o” marks the object, “misete mo ii desu ka” literally means “is it okay if I show?”

It’s a respectful way to offer your ID and keep things smooth.

Using a question format softens the interaction.

It shows you understand the formalities and are cooperative.

Keep this phrase handy for any ID checks during your stay.

5. 部屋はありますか？ (Heya wa arimasu ka?) — Do you have a room available?

If you haven’t reserved ahead, this phrase helps you ask about vacancies.

“Heya” means “room,” “wa” is the topic marker, and “arimasu ka” means “is there?” or “do you have?”

It’s a simple yes/no question that gets straight to the point.

Perfect for walk-in guests or last-minute plans.

Remember to listen carefully to the answer—staff might respond with “はい (hai)” for yes or “いいえ (iie)” for no.

Knowing this phrase helps you stay flexible during travel.

6. 名前は〜です (Namae wa ~ desu) — My name is ~

Introducing yourself politely is always a good move.

“Namae” means “name,” “wa” is the topic particle, and “~ desu” means “is ~.” Simply insert your name in the blank.

This phrase helps staff locate your reservation or just know who you are.

Practice it with a pleasant tone for warmth.

It’s often used immediately after saying you have a reservation.

Adding this small detail makes your check-in flow much smoother.

7. 鍵をください (Kagi o kudasai) — Please give me the key

After checking in, you’ll want to get your room key.

“Kagi” means “key,” “o” marks the object, and “kudasai” means “please give me.”

It’s a simple and polite request.

Using this phrase signals you’re ready to proceed with your stay.

Often, staff will hand you the key while saying “どうぞ (douzo),” which means “here you go.”

Try to say “kagi o kudasai” clearly to avoid confusion.

8. 部屋はどこですか？ (Heya wa doko desu ka?) — Where is my room?

Once you have the key, you might want to ask where your room is.

“Heya” means “room,” “wa” marks the topic, “doko” means “where,” and “desu ka” turns it into a question.

This phrase helps you get directions inside the hotel.

It’s polite and clear, great for any hotel or inn.

Staff will usually respond with directions or point you the way.

Being able to ask this shows you’re engaged and ready to explore your accommodation.

Part 2: Polite & Formal Suggestions

9. お世話になります (Osewa ni narimasu) — Thank you for taking care of me

This phrase expresses gratitude for the hospitality.

“Osewa” means “care” or “help,” “ni narimasu” means “to become” or “to receive.” Together, it politely says “thank you for looking after me.”

It’s commonly used in formal situations like hotels or business settings.

This phrase shows respect and appreciation beyond just a simple “thank you.”

Use it when checking in and checking out to make a good impression.

It’s a subtle way to build rapport with staff and show cultural awareness.

10. チェックアウトをお願いします (Chekku auto o onegaishimasu) — Check-out please

When your stay is ending, this phrase starts the check-out process.

“Chekku auto” is the Japanese pronunciation of “check-out,” and “o onegaishimasu” makes it polite.

It’s straightforward and respectful.

A common mistake is forgetting the “o” particle, which softens the request.

Example: “チェックアウトをお願いします。” said with a smile signals you’re ready to leave.

Using this phrase keeps the interaction smooth and professional.

11. お世話になりました (Osewa ni narimashita) — Thank you for your hospitality (past tense)

This is the past tense version of the earlier gratitude phrase.

“Narimashita” changes “narimasu” to past tense, meaning “thank you for the care you gave me.”

It’s perfect when checking out or saying goodbye.

It conveys appreciation for the entire stay, not just the moment.

Using this phrase leaves a positive lasting impression.

Try it with a slight bow for extra politeness.

12. 領収書をください (Ryōshūsho o kudasai) — Please give me a receipt

As you check out, you might need a receipt.

“Ryōshūsho” means “receipt,” “o” object particle, “kudasai” means “please give me.”

This phrase is simple and essential for business travelers or expense tracking.

Make sure to use this phrase clearly to avoid confusion.

Example: “領収書をください。” asked politely ensures you get your receipt without hassle.

It’s a handy phrase for a smooth and complete check-out.

13. クレジットカードは使えますか？ (Kurejitto kādo wa tsukaemasu ka?) — Can I use a credit card?

This is a useful question when paying your bill.

“Kurejitto kādo” means “credit card,” “wa” topic marker, “tsukaemasu ka” means “can I use?”

It’s polite and to the point.

Avoid assuming cards are accepted; always ask first.

Staff will usually answer “はい (hai)” or “いいえ (iie),” so be ready to respond.

Having this phrase ready helps you avoid payment surprises.

14. もう一度言ってください (Mō ichido itte kudasai) — Please say that again

Sometimes you might not catch what was said.

“Mō ichido” means “one more time,” “itte” is “say,” and “kudasai” means “please.”

This phrase helps keep communication clear.

It’s polite to use rather than nodding and guessing.

Example: If the receptionist speaks quickly, say this to clarify.

Using this shows you’re engaged and respectful.

15. 荷物を預かってもらえますか？ (Nimotsu o azukatte moraemasu ka?) — Can you hold my luggage?

If you arrive early or leave late, this phrase is handy.

“Nimotsu” means “luggage,” “o” object marker, “azukatte moraemasu ka” is “can you hold/store for me?”

It’s polite and useful for managing bags.

Make sure to confirm where to pick up your items later.

Many hotels offer this service, so don’t hesitate to ask.

Having this phrase ready makes your travel flow easier.

16. お部屋の掃除は何時ですか？ (Oheya no sōji wa nanji desu ka?) — What time is the room cleaning?

This question helps you plan your day around housekeeping.

“Oheya” means “room,” “no” possessive particle, “sōji” is “cleaning,” “wa” topic marker, “nanji desu ka” means “what time is it?”

Asking politely shows you’re considerate of hotel routines.

Knowing this helps avoid interruptions during your rest or work.

Staff will usually give a time frame or specific hour.

Use this phrase to coordinate your schedule easily.

Part 3: Very Casual / Native-like Expressions

17. よろしくお願いします (Yoroshiku onegaishimasu) — Please take care of me / Nice to meet you

This versatile phrase is used everywhere in Japan.

It means roughly “please treat me well” or “nice to meet you.” It’s casual yet polite.

Use it when you first meet staff or at the start of your stay.

It sets a friendly, cooperative tone instantly.

It’s often said with a slight bow and a smile.

Mastering this phrase makes you sound more natural and respectful.

18. どうもありがとうございます (Dōmo arigatō gozaimasu) — Thank you very much

This is a more heartfelt way to say “thank you.”

“Dōmo” adds emphasis to “arigatō gozaimasu,” making it very polite.

Use this when you want to express genuine gratitude.

It’s perfect when leaving the hotel or after receiving great service.

People appreciate the extra politeness.

This phrase helps you connect on a deeper cultural level.

19. また来ます (Mata kimasu) — I will come again

This phrase expresses your intention to return.

“Mata” means “again,” “kimasu” means “will come.”

It’s casual but warm and friendly.

Using it leaves a positive impression and encourages future visits.

It’s a nice way to say goodbye beyond just “thank you.”

Try it at checkout to sound like a native visitor.

20. お疲れ様でした (Otsukaresama deshita) — Thank you for your hard work

This phrase is a polite way to acknowledge someone’s work.

“Otsukare” means “tired,” “sama” is honorific, “deshita” is past tense.

It’s commonly used among coworkers but also polite to say to service staff.

It shows empathy and appreciation for their effort.

Use it when leaving or after receiving help.

This phrase deepens your cultural connection.

21. どうぞお先に (Dōzo osaki ni) — Please go ahead / After you

This phrase is handy when letting others go first.

“Dōzo” means “please,” “osaki ni” means “ahead” or “before.”

It’s casual but respectful and very Japanese in tone.

Use it when passing through doors or in queues.

It reflects good manners and consideration.

It’s a small phrase that makes a big impression.

22. すみません、もう一度お願いします (Sumimasen, mō ichido onegaishimasu) — Excuse me, please say that one more time

Perfect when you didn’t catch what was said.

“Sumimasen” means “excuse me” or “sorry,” “mō ichido” is “one more time,” “onegaishimasu” is “please.”

This phrase is polite and effective.

It combines apology and request, softening the ask.

Use it freely to avoid misunderstandings.

It’s better than pretending you understood.

23. 大丈夫です (Daijōbu desu) — It’s okay / I’m fine

This phrase means “it’s okay” or “I’m fine.”

It’s useful when staff ask if you need help or extra items.

“Daijōbu” means “all right” or “safe,” and “desu” makes it polite.

It’s a simple way to politely decline or confirm comfort.

Use it to keep communication smooth and friendly.

It’s a must-know for casual conversations.

24. 気をつけてください (Ki o tsukete kudasai) — Please be careful / Take care

This phrase is a kind way to say “take care.”

“Ki” means “spirit” or “mind,” “tsukete” means “to attach/pay,” and “kudasai” is “please.”

It’s often used when parting ways.

It shows you care about the other person’s well-being.

Use it at checkout or any farewell moment.

It leaves a warm, lasting impression of kindness.

Concluding Thought

Learning these 24 essential Japanese phrases for checking in and out is a fantastic step towards a smoother, more enjoyable trip.

They help you connect respectfully and confidently with hotel staff, enhancing your overall experience.

With these phrases in your pocket, you’ll feel more at home and ready to explore Japan with a smile. がんばって (Ganbatte) — good luck!