public signs in kanji

International TelephonePronounced 'kokusai denwa', this is the sign for 'International Telephone', which you will see in hotels, airports, public spaces etc. Previously there were many public telephone points in Japan, however due to the emergence of mobile technology there are far less of them around.

Lavatory (Toilet)Pronounced 'otearai', this is the common kanji sign for a 'Lavatory', which you will see in hotels, department stores, public spaces etc. The Japanese public toilets are said to be the cleanest in the world, and you will be surprised to see that the toilets are even electronically controlled.

UndergroundPronounced 'chikatetsu', this kanji sign indicates an underground station. Tokyo's underground is notoriously complicated to understand, so if you are having difficulties you are best to seek out the sign above for 'Information Center' where a member of staff will be able to assist you.

Information CenterPronounced 'annaisho', the kanji for 'Information Center' is useful to look out for if you are looking for travel information, street guides, lost property etc. Although the sign is commonly written in Japanese, there are often English speaking staff available to help you with your queries.