Hiroshima

1. Key Japanese Vocabulary for Beginners

When visiting or living in Hiroshima, knowing some basic Japanese phrases can go a long way. Here are essential words and phrases to help you get started:

Greetings and Politeness

• こんにちは (Konnichiwa) – Hello / Good afternoon
• おはようございます (Ohayou gozaimasu) – Good morning (formal)
• こんばんは (Konbanwa) – Good evening
• さようなら (Sayounara) – Goodbye
• ありがとうございます (Arigatou gozaimasu) – Thank you (formal)
• すみません (Sumimasen) – Excuse me / I’m sorry
• お願いします (Onegaishimasu) – Please (used when requesting something)
• はい (Hai) – Yes
• いいえ (Iie) – No

Basic Questions

• いくらですか？ (Ikura desu ka?) – How much is it?
• どこですか？ (Doko desu ka?) – Where is it?
• 英語を話せますか？ (Eigo o hanasemasu ka?) – Can you speak English?
• これは何ですか？ (Kore wa nan desu ka?) – What is this?

Getting Around

• 広島駅 (Hiroshima-eki) – Hiroshima Station
• バス (Basu) – Bus
• 電車 (Densha) – Train
• タクシー (Takushii) – Taxi
• 地図 (Chizu) – Map
• 右 (Migi) – Right
• 左 (Hidari) – Left
• まっすぐ (Massugu) – Straight

Dining and Shopping

• メニュー (Menyuu) – Menu
• おすすめは何ですか？ (Osusume wa nan desu ka?) – What do you recommend?
• 水をください (Mizu o kudasai) – Please give me water.
• お会計お願いします (Okaikei onegaishimasu) – The bill, please.
• これをください (Kore o kudasai) – I’ll take this, please.

Emergency Phrases

• 助けてください (Tasukete kudasai) – Please help me.
• 病院はどこですか？ (Byouin wa doko desu ka?) – Where is the hospital?
• 警察 (Keisatsu) – Police
• 火事 (Kaji) – Fire

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2. Cultural Considerations When Using Japanese

Understanding cultural nuances is just as important as learning the language. Here are some tips to help you communicate respectfully in Hiroshima:

• Politeness is Key: Japanese culture places a strong emphasis on politeness. Use formal language (e.g., adding "gozaimasu" to "arigatou") when speaking to strangers or in professional settings.
• Bowing: Bowing is a common way to greet or show respect. A slight bow is sufficient for casual interactions.
• Avoid Loud Speech: Speaking loudly in public spaces is considered impolite. Keep your voice at a moderate level.
• Use Honorifics: When addressing someone, add "-san" to their name (e.g., "Tanaka-san"). For teachers or professionals, use "-sensei."
• Be Patient: Many locals may not speak English fluently, so speaking slowly and using simple phrases can help.
• Hiroshima Dialect (Hiroshima-ben): Hiroshima has its own regional dialect. For example, instead of "arigatou," locals might say "arigato-san." While standard Japanese is widely understood, learning a few Hiroshima-ben phrases can endear you to locals.

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3. Local Resources for Learning Japanese in Hiroshima

Hiroshima offers a variety of resources for learning Japanese, ranging from formal classes to community exchange programs. Here are some options:

Language Schools

1. Hiroshima YMCA Japanese Language School

   • Offers beginner to advanced courses.
   • Focuses on conversational skills and cultural understanding.
   • Costs: Around ¥50,000–¥70,000 per term (varies by course length).
   • Website: Hiroshima YMCA

2. Hiroshima International Center (HIC)

   • Provides affordable Japanese language classes for foreigners.
   • Classes are often taught by volunteers.
   • Costs: ¥500–¥1,000 per session.
   • Website: HIC

3. ARC Academy Hiroshima

   • Offers intensive Japanese courses for students and professionals.
   • Costs: ¥150,000–¥200,000 per term (varies by course).
   • Website: ARC Academy

Community Exchange Programs

1. Hiroshima International Plaza (HIP)

   • Hosts language exchange events and cultural workshops.
   • Great for practicing Japanese with locals.
   • Costs: Free or minimal fees for materials.
   • Website: HIP

2. Hiroshima Peace Culture Foundation

   • Offers free or low-cost Japanese classes taught by volunteers.
   • Focuses on practical language skills for daily life.
   • Website: HPCF

Online and Mobile Resources

• Duolingo: Free app for learning basic Japanese vocabulary and grammar.
• Tandem / HelloTalk: Language exchange apps to connect with Japanese speakers in Hiroshima.
• NHK Easy Japanese: Free online lessons tailored for beginners.

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4. Potential Costs for Learning Japanese in Hiroshima

The cost of learning Japanese in Hiroshima depends on the type of program you choose:

• Volunteer/Community Classes: ¥500–¥1,000 per session.
• Language Schools: ¥50,000–¥200,000 per term (3–6 months).
• Private Tutors: ¥3,000–¥5,000 per hour.
• Online Courses: Free to ¥10,000 per month (depending on the platform).

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5. Tips for Navigating Hiroshima as a Non-Native Speaker

Hiroshima is a tourist-friendly city, but knowing how to navigate as a non-native speaker can make your experience smoother:

Transportation

• Hiroshima Electric Railway (Hiroden): The tram system is the most convenient way to get around. Learn basic phrases like "次は何駅ですか？ (Tsugi wa nan-eki desu ka?)" – What is the next station?
• IC Cards: Purchase an IC card (e.g., Suica or Paspy) for easy payment on public transport.
• Signage: Many signs in Hiroshima are bilingual (Japanese and English), especially at major tourist sites like the Peace Memorial Park and Miyajima.

Dining

• Many restaurants in Hiroshima specialize in okonomiyaki (savory pancakes) and oysters. Some menus may not have English translations, so learning food-related vocabulary can help. Alternatively, point to pictures on the menu and say, "これをください (Kore o kudasai)" – I’ll take this, please.

Tourist Information Centers

• Visit the Hiroshima Tourist Information Center at Hiroshima Station for maps, brochures, and assistance in English.

Emergency Assistance

• Dial 110 for police and 119 for fire/ambulance services. If you need help in English, ask for an interpreter by saying, "英語の通訳をお願いします (Eigo no tsuuyaku o onegaishimasu)."

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6. Final Tips

• Practice Daily: Use apps, flashcards, or practice with locals to reinforce your learning.
• Join Local Events: Participate in festivals like the Hiroshima Flower Festival to practice Japanese in a fun, immersive setting.
• Be Patient and Open-Minded: Locals appreciate any effort to speak Japanese, even if it’s not perfect.

By combining these language basics, cultural insights, and local resources, you’ll be well-prepared to navigate Hiroshima and make meaningful connections with its residents. Enjoy your time in this historic and vibrant city!