Question
I’m planning a trip to Japan next spring and heard it’s polite to say certain phrases when entering a Japanese home. What should I say when I enter someone’s house in Japan?
Japango Editor Team
お邪魔します（おじゃまします）。
Ojama shimasu.
Excuse me for disturbing (you). I will come in.
When you visit a Japanese home, it’s customary to say “ojama shimasu” as you enter. This expression shows humility and respect, acknowledging that you are entering someone else’s space. It can be translated as “I am intruding” or “Excuse me for disturbing.”
Similarly, when leaving a Japanese home, you might say “ojama shimashita,” which means “Thank you for having me” or “Excuse me for having disturbed you”. These expressions help maintain the friendliness and politeness valued in Japanese culture.
