You can certainly speak English in Japan. However, don't expect everyone to understand you. While English is taught in schools, it's not widely spoken in everyday life.
Here are some things to keep in mind:
- English proficiency is generally low: Only a small percentage of the Japanese population is fluent in English.
- Tourist areas may be more accommodating: Larger cities like Tokyo and Osaka, as well as popular tourist destinations, are more likely to have people who can communicate in English, especially in hotels, restaurants, and shops catering to tourists.
- Basic Japanese phrases can be helpful: Even a few simple greetings and phrases can go a long way in making interactions smoother.
In short, while you can speak English in Japan, be prepared to communicate using gestures, non-verbal cues, and translation apps.
