Translation guide
In Japanese, expressing 'going on foot' depends on context. The most common way is to use the verb 歩く (to walk) or the phrase 徒歩で (on foot). There is no single direct translation; instead, choose the expression that fits the situation.
To say that you go somewhere by walking, as opposed to using a vehicle.
This is the standard way to say 'go on foot'. 徒歩 means 'walking' or 'on foot', and で marks the means.
You can go to the station on foot.
Is it difficult to go on foot?
The verb 'to walk'. Use this when the focus is on the action of walking rather than the means of transport.
I walk to school.
Let's go on foot. (lit. Let's walk and go.)
The te-form of 歩く plus 行く, emphasizing the manner of going. Very common in casual speech.
I'll go on foot.
Noun meaning 'walking' or 'going on foot'. Often used in signs or formal contexts, like '徒歩5分' (5 minutes on foot).
It's a 5-minute walk from the station.
To talk about walking as an activity, not just a means of transport.
To explicitly contrast walking with using a vehicle.
徒歩で is more formal and often used in written directions or signs. 歩いて is more conversational and emphasizes the action of walking. Both are correct for 'on foot'.
English 'on foot' is an idiom. Avoid literal translations like 足の上で (on top of feet). Use 徒歩で or 歩いて instead.
I usually go to work on foot.
It's faster to go on foot than by car in this area.
I walk for an hour every day.