First Move
Look for the exit name or number before leaving the station.
Quick steps
- Check your map app for the exit name or number.
- Look for signs such as East Exit, West Exit, Central Exit, or Exit A1.
- Confirm the exit before leaving the station area if possible.
- If you are unsure, ask station staff or someone nearby.
Don’t Do This
Don’t leave the station before checking the exit.
At a large station, the wrong exit can put you far from your destination.
Don’t ask only ‘Is this right?’
Say the place name or show a map so the person knows which destination you mean.
Say or show this
Use these phrases to speak or point when you need help.
Say the destination or place name first.
[place] ni iku ni wa, dono deguchi ga chikai desu ka?
〇〇に行くには、どの出口が近いですか？
Which exit should I use for [place]?
Replace 〇〇 / [place] with the station, hotel, shop, or place name.
Example
Tokyo Tower ni iku ni wa, dono deguchi ga chikai desu ka?
東京タワーに行くには、どの出口が近いですか？
If You See or Hear This
Deguchi
出口
It means: Exit.
Your move
Follow the exit name or number on the signs.
Higashi-guchi
東口
It means: East Exit.
Your move
Follow signs for the East Exit.
Nishi-guchi
西口
It means: West Exit.
Your move
Follow signs for the West Exit.
Chuuou-guchi
中央口
It means: Central Exit.
Your move
Follow signs for the Central Exit.
Kaisatsu
改札
It means: Ticket gate.
Your move
Check the exit again before passing through the gate.
Chijou
地上
It means: Street level.
Your move
Follow this sign to leave the underground station area.
If You’re Stuck
In large stations, the wrong exit can put you far from your destination. If you cannot find station staff, ask someone nearby. Say the place name clearly, or show a map if you can.
Tiny Culture Note
Exit names and numbers are practical navigation tools in Japan. Save the exit in your map app before you start walking.