Question
I am planning to visit Japan soon and I am worried about COVID-19 precautions, especially in crowded areas. How can I ask a staff member at a restaurant, “Do you have any seating available outside?” in Japanese?
Japango Editor Team
外（そと）に席（せき）はありますか。
Soto ni seki wa arimasuka?
Do you have any seating available outside?
This phrase is useful when you prefer to sit outside due to health concerns or simply to enjoy the fresh air. The word “soto” means “outside”, and “seki” means “seat” or “seating”. By asking “soto ni seki wa arimasuka?”, you are inquiring if there is available seating outside the restaurant.
You can switch “soto” with other location words, such as “naibu” (inside) if you want to ask about indoor seating. This will help ensure you get the seating arrangement you’re comfortable with during your visit.
