Translation guide
How to express giving, asking for, or following directions in Japanese. Covers both physical navigation and instructions for doing something.
How do I get to the station?
Polite way to ask for directions
Follow the directions.
Used for instructions, not navigation
The learner wants to tell someone how to get somewhere, or ask how to get somewhere.
The most common way to say 'directions to X'. Attach to a place name.
Please tell me the directions to the station.
Literally 'the road to X', often used when asking for directions.
Excuse me, could you tell me the way to Tokyo Tower?
Refers to guidance or showing the way, often used for giving directions.
Shall I give you directions?
The learner wants to refer to a set of steps or guidance for a task.
General word for instructions or directions in a non-navigation sense.
Please follow the teacher's directions.
Refers to a written manual or instruction booklet.
Refers to a procedure or steps, often used in technical contexts.
The learner wants to talk about north, south, east, west, or general orientation.
While 方向 (ほうこう) means 'direction', it is not natural for asking how to get somewhere. Use 行き方 (いきかた) or 道 (みち) instead.
Please tell me the directions to the station.
組み立ての説明書を読んでください。
Please read the assembly directions.
操作の手順を確認してください。
Please check the operating directions.
風の方向が変わった。
The wind direction changed.