Giving Directions
みちあんない
Learn how to give directions in Japanese!
From Beginners1 Lesson 15, we’ll practice basic phrases like “go straight,” “turn right,” and “turn left.”
Basic Phrases
① まっすぐ いってください
Go straight.
Use this when you want someone to continue straight along the road.
② 右に まがってください
Turn right.
③ 左に まがってください
Turn left.
“右” = right
“左” = left
These are essential words for giving directions.
Using Traffic Lights
④ ひとつめの しんごうを右に まがってください
Turn right at the next light.
⑤ ふたつめの しんごうを左に まがってください
Turn left at the second light.
Using Corners
⑥ ふたつめの かどを右にまがってください
Turn right at the second corner.
If there is no traffic light, you can use “かど” = corner.
Crossing the Street
⑦ みちを わたってください
Cross the street.
– みち = street
– わたる = to cross
Telling the Location
⑧ 左がわに あります
It’s on the left.
⑨ 右がわに あります
It’s on the right.
Optional: “がわ” means *side*. You can say it without “がわ”.
Summary
For giving directions in Japanese, short and simple sentences are enough.
Start with these three key phrases:
– まっすぐ いってください
– 右に / 左に まがってください
Try using them next time you ask or give directions in Japan!
