Translation guide
In Japanese, referring to 'this place' depends on formality, physical proximity, and whether you are pointing to a location or referring to the current establishment. The most common word is ここ, but in polite or service contexts, こちら is preferred. For shops and businesses, 当店 is used in formal announcements.
The speaker wants to indicate a place close to them, such as 'here' or 'this spot'.
The basic word for 'this place' or 'here'. Used in casual and neutral contexts when the place is near the speaker.
Please sit here.
This place is quiet, isn't it?
A polite alternative to ここ. Often used in customer service or formal situations to refer to 'this place' or 'this way'.
Literally 'this place/location'. More explicit and slightly formal. Used when emphasizing the specific location.
This place is historically important.
The speaker is referring to the store, restaurant, or business they are currently in, often from the perspective of the staff or in formal announcements.
Means 'this shop/store'. Used by staff or in signs to refer to their own establishment in a formal way.
This store closes at 10 PM.
Can also be used by staff to refer to their establishment politely, similar to 'we' or 'here'.
Used casually by customers to refer to the place they are in, but not by staff to refer to their own business.
The speaker is indicating a specific point on a map, in a text, or in a visual reference.
ここ is the basic word for 'here' and is used in casual and neutral situations. こちら is a polite version, often used when guiding someone or in customer service. It can also mean 'this direction' or 'this person' in formal contexts.
Please put the luggage here. (neutral)
Please place your luggage here. (polite)
When a shop employee wants to say 'this place' to refer to their own store, using ここ can sound too casual or even rude. Use 当店 (とうてん) or こちら instead.
This way, please.
The restroom is this way.
Our recommendation at this shop is ramen.
We don't accept credit cards here.
This place is a nice shop, isn't it?