A huge misunderstanding can be so embarrassing！15 Chinese characters that will definitely come in handy when you're in Japan

Photos and text by /MATCHA

When Taiwanese people travel to Japan, they often assume that since they understand Chinese characters, they can more or less guess the meaning even if they don't know the exact definition. But there are some characters that look completely misleading, and in the end, you still have to pull out your phone and rely on Google. This time, the Matcha editors are here to teach you fifteen super useful Chinese characters that will make every aspect of your life in Japan—food, clothing, shelter, and transportation—a breeze！

Food Edition
1. 注文

“注文” means to place an order in Chinese. It’s usually displayed on ticket machines or touch screens at chain restaurants. You’ll definitely need this phrase when ordering food: “注文いいですか？” (chūmon ii desu ka?) — Can I place an order?

For more details, seeDon’t Challenge Japanese Landmines！What Are the Table Manners in Japanese Restaurants?

2. 药味

Whether at ramen shops or set meal restaurants, you’ll often see “药味” (yakumi) on the table. It refers to a general term for fruits, vegetables, and dried seafood added to dishes—not only to enhance flavor but also to bring out the aroma and taste of the food. Common vegetables used as yakumi in various Japanese dishes include green onions, mitsuba (Japanese wild parsley), ginger, myōga (ginger shoots), mustard, garlic, shiso (perilla), daikon (grated radish), celery, and more.

For more details, seeJapan Mini Encyclopedia: “Yakumi”

3. 替玉

“替玉” means extra noodles (without additional soup or toppings). You can purchase a 替玉 in advance at the ticket vending machine or add it while seated. Don’t mistake it for adding an egg！

4. 仕度中

“仕度中” is often seen at the entrance of traditional-style Japanese restaurants. It means the exact opposite of “open for business”—it indicates that the restaurant is currently preparing and not yet ready to receive customers.

Shopping Edition

5. 德用

“德用” means great value—for a low price, you get a larger quantity. It implies both quality and affordability. If you prefer buying in bulk, keep an eye out for this word and go ahead and grab it.

6. 手数料

When shopping online, you’ll often come across the term “手数料.” This means a service fee or handling charge is required. Before making a purchase, check not only whether tax is included, but also whether any fees apply.

7. 完售

“完售” means sold out. When you see this word, you’ll usually feel a bit disappointed, but many people also interpret it as “go buy it now,” and it's often paired with mobile notifications too.

8. 格安

“格安” means cheaper than the usual or standard price. Of course, there’s also “激安,” which means super cheap！

9. N!替

“N!替” means currency exchange. Although commercial facilities in Japan rarely offer currency exchange services, another meaning is exchanging money, so if you see this term at places like airports, it means you can exchange your money for foreign currency.

Accommodation Edition

10. 献立

In simple terms, it refers to the dishes and their order on the menu. It’s commonly found in Japanese cuisine served at hotels, where a row of dish names is written in Japanese, and then the courses are served in that exact sequence.

11.决n

"决n" seen when booking a hotel online with a credit card. It means you can complete the entire payment process online without having to pay again on-site.

Transportation Section

12.运赁

"运赁" means transportation fare. It generally refers to the amount charged for transporting people or goods based on distance. The same term applies to taxi fares as well.

13.切符

A general term for all types of tickets. For example, it can refer to ride tickets, entry tickets, event tickets, and so on.

For details, see how to buy train tickets at the station.

14.入力

This simply means "input." In transportation contexts, it's used when you need to enter an amount or credit card password at a ticket machine.

15.精算

Literally translated, it means “detailed calculation.” It’s about breaking down money more precisely. It most often comes up when you find you don’t have enough money to exit the station after getting off the train—you’ll then need to go to the “精算所” machine to pay the difference or top up your card.

Conclusion
If you understand these fifteen Japanese kanji, your trip in Japan will surely become smoother and more hassle-free.

Author: MATCHA
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