English can be suitable for travel in Japan, especially in major tourist areas like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka, where many signs, menus, and transportation systems offer English translations. Additionally, many hotels, restaurants, and shops in these cities have English-speaking staff to accommodate international visitors. However, outside of these urban areas, English proficiency can be more limited, and communication may become more challenging if you don’t know any Japanese.

In general, while it’s possible to get by in English in tourist spots, learning some basic Japanese phrases or using a translation app can make your trip smoother, especially in less tourist-heavy locations. English is often understood in major tourist attractions, but for deeper cultural experiences or in rural areas, some knowledge of Japanese will be beneficial​