Learn Japanese Free Learn Japanese Free
5 Steps to Pay at a Japanese Convenience Store
Step 1: Walking up to the register
When you step up, the clerk will greet you:
いらっしゃいませ
Irasshaimase!
Welcome!
=> Honestly? I used to panic and try to reply, but you don’t need to say anything back. Just give a slight nod or a warm smile!
Step 2: Asking for the price
If you can’t find the price tag on an item, just show it to the clerk and ask:
これはおいくらですか
Kore wa ikura desu ka?
How much is this?
| Japanese | Romaji | English Meaning | Politeness |
|---|---|---|---|
| これはいくらですか。 | Kore wa ikura desu ka. | How much is this? | Normally polite |
| これはおいくらですか。 | Kore wa oikura desu ka. | How much is this? | More polite |
Step 3: Heating up your food
If you’re grabbing a bento or a warm bun, expect this question:
温めますか
（あたためますか）
Atatamemasu ka?
Would you like me to heat it up?
✅ 「はい、お願いします」(はい、お願いします)
✅ “Hai, onegaishimasu” (Yes, please)
❌ 「大丈夫です」(大丈夫です)
❌ “Daijoubu desu” (I’m good, thanks)
=> If you say yes, they’ll pop it in the microwave for you right there!
Step 4: Paying for your items
They’ll state your total. Here’s how I handle the payment:
– Cash → Put your money directly on the small TRAY at the counter (never hand it directly to their fingers).
– 💳 Card → Say “Kaado de” (カードで).
– 📱 Suica/ IC Card → Say “Suica de” (Suicaで).
Step 5: Finishing up & My favorite tip
As you pick up your items, they’ll bow and say:
ありがとうございました。
Arigatou gozaimashita!
Thank you very much. / Thank you.
Simply reply with: “Arigatou gozaimasu!” (ありがとうございます)
=> Pro Tip: If you need chopsticks or a spoon, ask BEFORE you tap your card! Just say:
お箸ください。
( おはしください。)
Ohashi kudasai.
Chopsticks, please.
Works every single time.
Related Post:
Japanese Vocabulary for Shopping
Everyday Japanese Phrases
