Thinking of learning Japanese? Greetings are the perfect place to start your language journey! While konnichiwa might be the only Japanese greeting you know, there’s a whole world of authentic expressions that can help you connect with native speakers.
Japanese greetings change depending on the time of day, your relationship with the other person, and the social context. Learning these nuances will improve your language skills and help you show respect for Japanese culture.
In Japan, greetings are meaningful social exchanges that reflect the culture’s focus on respect and politeness. The most well-known greeting is konnichiwa (こんにちは), which Japanese people use during daytime hours, typically from late morning until evening.
Unlike English with its all-purpose “hello,” Japanese people adjust their greetings based on time of day, formality, and social setting. This thoughtfulness shows care for others and helps create smooth, pleasant conversations.
Learning these greeting variations will quickly take your Japanese beyond basic tourist phrases! Whether you’re planning a trip to Japan, talking with Japanese colleagues, or just building your language skills, these expressions will make your conversations more natural and respectful.
Ohayou gozaimasu (おはようございます) [good morning] is the perfect morning greeting when you want to show respect in Japanese conversations! You’ll hear this polite expression from sunrise until about 10:30 AM in offices, stores, and formal settings across Japan.
Say it like “oh-hah-yoh goh-zah-ee-mass” with the final “u” sounds barely whispered – this small pronunciation detail will make you sound much more natural to Japanese ears.
When meeting your boss, teachers, or anyone you’re not close with, this formal version shows you understand proper Japanese etiquette. The gozaimasu part is what transforms a casual morning hello into a respectful greeting that acknowledges social relationships.
Think of it as the difference between saying “morning!” and “good morning, sir/ma’am” in English – choosing the right form shows you’re aware of the social context and care about making a good impression.
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Ohayou (おはよう) is the friendly morning greeting you’ll use with people you’re close to in Japan! This relaxed expression is perfect for family at the breakfast table, friends at your morning coffee spot, or teammates you chat with daily.
Say it like “oh-hah-yoh” with a gentle lift at the end – though many Japanese speakers barely pronounce the final vowel in casual conversation. When you drop the formal gozaimasu ending, you’re creating an instant atmosphere of warmth and familiarity.
Japanese social connections are reflected in language choices, and using this shorter form signals “we’re friends” without saying it directly. It’s just like how you might say “morning!” instead of “good morning” to your roommate or close friend – quick, warm, and perfectly suited for those comfortable relationships.
Konnichiwa (こんにちは) is the classic Japanese greeting you’ve probably heard in movies or anime! This friendly expression fits perfectly from late morning until sunset, making it your go-to phrase for most daytime interactions.
Think of konnichiwa as the Swiss Army knife of Japanese greetings – it works beautifully for afternoon shopping trips, casual street encounters, or even semi-formal situations. The pronunciation is straightforward too: “kohn-nee-chee-wah” with a gentle rise in tone.
Just remember – using konnichiwa before 10:30 AM might raise some eyebrows! Japanese speakers are quite particular about matching greetings to the right time of day, so save this one for after your morning coffee.
Pair your konnichiwa with a slight bow for an extra touch of authenticity that Japanese people will appreciate. This small gesture shows you respect their customs and helps create a warm first impression!
Konbanwa (こんばんは) is Japan’s warm evening hello that kicks in right as the sunset colors fade from the sky! This friendly greeting becomes the go-to phrase from dusk until bedtime.
Say it like “kohn-bahn-wah” with a slight rise in your voice at the end. Japanese speakers naturally switch from afternoon greetings to this evening expression as outdoor lights begin to twinkle.
Picture yourself strolling through Tokyo’s glowing streets or entering a cozy izakaya for dinner – konbanwa is your perfect conversation starter! It works beautifully whether you’re chatting with hotel staff, restaurant servers, or new friends at an evening gathering.
Add a gentle nod or slight bow while saying it, and you’ll instantly connect with locals who appreciate visitors who respect their daily greeting rhythms. This small effort shows you care about Japanese customs beyond just tourist phrases!
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Moshi moshi (もしもし) is the telephone greeting that opens every phone conversation in Japan! This catchy greeting is strictly for telephone use – you’d never say it when meeting someone in person.
When your phone rings, channel your inner Japanese speaker with a bright “moh-shee moh-shee” and you’ll sound like a local right away. The melody of this phrase typically rises on the second moshi, creating a friendly, attentive tone.
Japanese phone etiquette is quite specific, and this greeting immediately signals you’re following proper cultural norms. There’s even a fun bit of folklore suggesting that supernatural fox spirits can’t pronounce moshi twice in succession – making it a sneaky test to ensure you’re speaking to a human!
Remember that while konnichiwa works face-to-face, switching to moshi moshi the moment you’re on a call shows you understand the subtle differences in Japanese communication contexts.
Strengthen your foundation with a detailed guide on Japanese grammar rules: Japanese Grammar Rules.
Ossu (おっす) is the quintessential casual greeting among guys in Japan! It carries a strong, masculine vibe that young men use to sound confident and laid-back.
Step into any martial arts dojo, and you’ll hear ossu echoed all around—it’s basically the unofficial chant of karate, judo, and kendo practitioners! Students shout it firmly while bowing, combining respect and fighting spirit in just one crisp word.
Imagine a bunch of college guys hanging out — ossu gets tossed around as casually as a high-five, instantly creating a vibe of friendship and easygoing camaraderie. It’s like a tough yet friendly “yo.”
Keep in mind: ossu is best reserved for casual settings. Saying it to your boss or your friend’s grandmother could feel out of place. This greeting really shines in informal, energetic circles where its rough charm fits perfectly.
Ya-ho or yahho (やーほー) is a cheerful and bubbly greeting often exchanged among friends in Japan! It’s playful, light-hearted, and instantly brightens up conversations.
Pronounce it with a sing-song tone — “yaaa-hooo” — to capture its lively and friendly essence. Think of it as the Japanese equivalent of waving excitedly and shouting “hey!” when you spot a good friend.
Young women especially favor this expression, and it’s a common phrase in anime and J-dramas when characters want to sound approachable and fun. The elongated vowels add a melodic flair that signals a happy, upbeat mood.
Use ya-ho with close friends, classmates, or during casual get-togethers—not suitable for formal or professional settings. With the right crowd, it creates a warm, welcoming atmosphere where conversations flow easily.
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Yo (よ) is a quick and cool Japanese greeting that’s perfect for casual meet-ups with close friends!
Picture walking into your favorite ramen spot and spotting your buddy— a simple “yo” paired with a nod says it all! It’s a favorite among teens and young adults for its effortless and international feel.
Its strength lies in its simplicity — just one syllable, easy to say and remember from day one of learning Japanese. You’ll hear it often in anime, pop songs, and everyday hangouts where chill vibes are key.
Remember, yo is strictly for informal use among peers. Using it with teachers or elders might seem disrespectful. When used correctly, it’s a quick way to build instant rapport.
Otsukaresama desu (お疲れ様です) is a wonderfully polite phrase that’s essential in Japanese work culture! It’s a way to acknowledge a colleague’s hard work while fostering connection.
Pronounce it “oh-tsu-ka-re-sa-ma des” as you greet coworkers in hallways, enter meetings, or say morning hellos. It’s like saying “thank you for your effort” in a casual yet respectful manner.
This phrase works both as a greeting and a farewell. When the workday ends, the past tense form otsukaresama deshita expresses gratitude as everyone wraps up.
Japanese workplaces emphasize these small acts of recognition, making this phrase a great tool for building good relationships and showing cultural savvy beyond basic greetings.
Hajimemashite (はじめまして) is the ideal greeting for first-time meetings in Japan! It literally means “Nice to meet you” and signals you understand Japanese social etiquette.
Say it “ha-ji-me-mash-te” with a slight emphasis on “ma” for natural flow. Use this phrase in any initial encounter—from business introductions to social gatherings.
For added politeness, follow it up with yoroshiku onegaishimasu (よろしくお願いします), meaning “Please treat me kindly” or “I look forward to working with you.” Together, these form a respectful and heartfelt introduction.
Pair this with a bow, adjusting its depth based on the situation—deeper for formal events, gentler for casual meetups—to complete the traditional Japanese greeting ritual.
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Genki? (元気?) is that light, friendly check-in that instantly makes casual Japanese conversations warmer! Think of it as the quick “How’s it going?” you toss to friends when you meet or catch up.
Say it with a rising tone — “gen-KI?” — and you’ll sound just like a native speaker casually asking if someone’s doing well. It’s an easy way to open conversations and keep things relaxed.
You can answer with a cheerful “Genki!” if you’re feeling great, or a more neutral “Maa-maa” if you’re just okay. This little question can lead to a longer chat or simply serve as a warm greeting.
Just be sure to use it with people you’re close to — it’s too informal for professors, bosses, or new professional contacts. Among friends though, genki? shows you’re tuned into Japanese social vibes and friendship dynamics.
Haro (ハロー) adds a touch of global flair to Japanese greetings! Borrowed from the English “hello,” it’s popular among younger Japanese who enjoy blending English expressions into everyday conversation.
Say it brightly — “hah-roh” — and you’ll instantly create a relaxed, modern mood. Unlike traditional greetings that follow strict time-of-day rules, haro works at any hour in casual situations.
You’ll often hear it in trendy Tokyo cafés, on college campuses, and in places with an international feel. It’s part of Japan’s growing mix of traditional and modern influences.
Pair your haro with a friendly wave or a light nod, and you’ve nailed this upbeat greeting that bridges cultures and makes new friends feel at ease.
Irasshaimase (いらっしゃいませ) is the energetic welcome you’ll hear as soon as you step into almost any Japanese shop or restaurant! It’s used by staff to greet customers and set a friendly tone.
Pronounce it “ee-rah-shai-ma-seh” and you’ll notice shop assistants calling it out whether you’re entering a ramen shop, a boutique, or a department store.
Here’s the key cultural tip — customers don’t respond to irasshaimase. A smile or nod is plenty, since the greeting is meant to honor your presence, not start a conversation.
If several staff members greet you at once, just keep browsing naturally. It’s all part of Japan’s exceptional service culture where guests are made to feel welcome from the first step inside.
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Ojamashimasu (お邪魔します) is the polite phrase you say when entering someone’s home in Japan. It literally means “I’m disturbing you,” and reflects the cultural value placed on respecting another’s space.
Say it “oh-jah-mah-shee-mass” as you remove your shoes at the entrance, and your hosts will recognize your thoughtfulness right away.
It’s more than just a greeting — it’s a small ritual that shows gratitude for being allowed into someone’s personal space. You might also hear it in offices when someone enters a meeting room or a colleague’s desk area.
Using ojamashimasu instead of a standard hello will leave a strong impression that you truly understand Japanese etiquette.
Tadaima (ただいま) is the warm, homecoming greeting you say when you walk back into your Japanese home. It simply means “I’m home,” and it’s often part of a touching daily exchange.
The usual reply from family or housemates is okaeri (おかえり) or the more formal okaeri nasai (おかえりなさい), both meaning “Welcome back.” This back-and-forth creates a sense of closeness and belonging.
Whether you’ve been gone for hours or just a few minutes, tadaima signals your return to a place where you’re cared for.
If you’re staying with a host family in Japan, using this phrase will quickly make you feel like part of their household. It’s a small but powerful way to connect through everyday tradition.
Ready to transform your Japanese greeting knowledge into confident, natural conversations? These hands-on exercises will sharpen your skills and help you avoid the most common mistakes that trip up learners!
Time to test your cultural awareness! These real-world scenarios will build your instincts for choosing the perfect Japanese greeting in any situation.
Fill in the blanks with the most culturally appropriate greeting for each situation:
Choose the most appropriate response for each social situation:
1. Your Japanese teacher calls you on weekends:
2. You're a university student meeting your close study partner at the library:
3. You enter a traditional Japanese bookstore during lunch hour:
4. First day orientation at your new Japanese company:
5. Returning to your host family's home after evening classes:
Make learning fun by following tips on how to read Japanese manga for language learning: Read Japanese Manga for Language Learning.
Even small missteps can disrupt the natural flow of Japanese conversation. Master these common trouble spots to sound more like a native speaker and less like a textbook!
The Morning Mix-up Picture this: you cheerfully say "konnichiwa" at 9:00 AM and watch confused expressions appear on Japanese faces. Using afternoon greetings during morning hours feels as awkward as wearing pajamas to a business meeting!
Japanese speakers instinctively align their greetings with natural daily rhythms. Morning light calls for morning greetings - anything else disrupts their expectation of conversational harmony.
The Evening Error Jumping to "konbanwa" too early in the day creates similar confusion. Wait for genuine twilight before making this transition - Japanese people feel the day's progression through their greeting choices.
Pro insight: Watch how Japanese speakers naturally shift their greetings as daylight changes. This attunement to daily cycles reflects deeper cultural values of living in harmony with natural patterns.
The Relationship Misjudgment Using casual "ohayou" with someone you barely know can create uncomfortable social tension. Japanese relationships have clear stages, and your greeting choice should match your actual connection level.
The Over-Formality Trap Conversely, sticking to ultra-formal greetings with close friends might make you seem distant or uptight. Reading relationship dynamics correctly takes practice but transforms your social interactions.
Cultural wisdom: Japanese greetings aren't just words - they're social positioning statements that communicate your understanding of relationship boundaries and cultural expectations.
Q1. How do you greet someone in Japanese?
In Japanese, greetings depend on the time of day and the level of formality. Common examples include:
Q2. What are 10 Japanese words?
Here are ten basic Japanese words and their meanings:
Q3. Is it konnichiwa or moshi moshi?
Both are correct but used differently:
Q4. How do girls say "hi" in Japanese?
Japanese girls may use the same greetings as everyone else, but often in a softer, friendly tone. They might say:
Q5. Do Japanese girls say "I love you"?
Yes, but it’s less common in everyday conversation compared to Western cultures. Instead, Japanese girls might say:
Q6. What does moshi moshi mean?
Moshi moshi (もしもし) is a casual telephone greeting in Japan, equivalent to “Hello?” on the phone. It’s not used in face-to-face interactions.
Final Thoughts
Mastering how to say “hello” in Japanese isn’t just about learning a single word—it’s about understanding the culture, formality levels, and context behind each greeting. Whether you’re preparing for a trip to Japan, starting Japanese language classes, or simply exploring the culture, using the right greeting can leave a lasting positive impression.
If you want to go beyond Konnichiwa and learn authentic Japanese communication, start your journey today with TLS – The Japanese Language School, where expert trainers guide you step-by-step from basics to fluency.
