Point-and-say cards present an oft-overlooked tool for travelers in Japan.
Why should I want a point-and-say card in Japan?
Imagine walking and shopping for 5 hours. You’ve built up a deep hunger, so you plunge into the nearest restaurant overflowing with a hearty aroma. You sit at the only open seat, and grab the menu laid in front of you. As you open it, you find a picture-less menu with Japanese only. You call over your waiter and realize he doesn’t speak any English either.
A Ubiquitous Need
Despite learning English for many years in school, many Japanese are uncomfortable speaking it or have used it so seldomly that they’ve forgotten most of it. So, if you duck into the nearest ramen joint, don’t be surprised if you find no English–even in Tokyo. In these situations, you can use your point-and-say card. Of course, you should prioritize using these cards if you have a dietary restriction due to allergy or religion. Don’t strictly rely on translation apps like Google Translate or DeepL, as the translations may not capture what your intent. See the Special Diets and The Point-and-Say for more info.
How to use a Point-and-Say Card in Japan
Save the Point-and-Say
Download the file on this page, bookmark this page, or try out a phone case for your trip.
Bring out the Point-and-Say at the restaurant
Whip out your point-and-say, grab your waiter’s attention, and just “point and say” what you want to communicate. The card has both English and Japanese side by side.
Special Diets and The Point-and-Say
If you follow a vegetarian or vegan diet, please remember that these terms may not have the same connotation in Japan. Particularly, with regard to fish. Japan will often consider bonito flakes and dashi, both fish-based, as vegan. Be as specific as possible to avoid this issue.
Tips
- Although you shouldn’t rely only on translator apps, you can always double-up the point-and-say card–or even learn some Japanese!
- If you’re like us, scrounging for every last ounce of battery when traveling, print out the PDF, or even better: grab a phone case, especially if you have a food allergy or religious diet.
- Don’t Give up! If you don’t have a card, or your phone has died, try anyway! Gestures, broken Japanese, even just English can get your point across.
- Remember, you can always stock up in a grocery store or your local convenience store. Try out the pickled plum rice balls (ume onigiri) for a vegan treat!
Your Experiences in Restaurants in Japan
How did your trip go? Did you experience any times where a point-and-say card would’ve helped? What helped you?
Let us know in the comments!
