Translation guide
How to express giving, asking for, or following directions in Japanese. Covers both physical navigation and instructions for doing something.
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.
駅への行き方を教えてください。
Please tell me the directions to the station.
Literally 'the road to X', often used when asking for directions.
すみません、東京タワーへの道を教えていただけますか。
Excuse me, could you tell me the way to Tokyo Tower?
Refers to guidance or showing the way, often used for giving directions.
道案内をしましょうか。
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.
先生の指示に従ってください。
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.
Refers to a compass direction.
どの方角に進めばいいですか。
Which direction should I go?
More general word for direction or orientation, can be used for movement or abstract direction.
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.
駅への行き方を教えてください。
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.
Please check the operating directions.
風の方向が変わった。
The wind direction changed.