When welcoming visitors to your store in Japan, it’s essential to convey warmth and hospitality. The Japanese culture places great emphasis on politeness, so it’s important to choose the right phrases based on the level of formality and the relationship with your customers. In this guide, we will discuss how to say “Welcome to our store” in both formal and informal ways, providing you with various tips and examples to ensure you create a welcoming atmosphere.
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Formal Ways to Say “Welcome to Our Store”
1. いらっしゃいませ (Irasshaimase):
This is the most commonly used and universally understood phrase to welcome customers in a store. It is a polite expression that conveys a sense of respect and invites customers to enter.
Example:
お客様、いらっしゃいませ。(Okyakusama, irasshaimase) (Welcome to our store, customer.)
2. いらっしゃいませ！ごゆっくりお楽しみください。(Irasshaimase! Goyukkuri o-tanoshimi kudasai):
This phrase extends a further welcome and encourages customers to enjoy their time in the store. It is a polite and friendly way to express your desire for customers to have a pleasant experience.
Example:
新作商品もございますので、どうぞごゆっくりお楽しみください。(Shinsaku shōhin mo gozaimasu node, dōzo goyukkuri o-tanoshimi kudasai) (We have new items available, so please enjoy your time browsing.)
Informal Ways to Say “Welcome to Our Store”
1. ようこそ (Yōkoso):
This is a simple and friendly way to welcome customers to your store in an informal setting. It carries a sense of familiarity and warmth, making customers feel comfortable.
Example:
ようこそ、当店へ！(Yōkoso, tōten e!) (Welcome to our store!)
2. いらっしゃい (Irasshai):
This expression is commonly used among friends, family, or in casual situations. It is a warm and friendly welcome that suits a relaxed atmosphere.
Example:
いらっしゃい！色々見てくださいね。(Irasshai! Iroiro mite kudasai ne) (Welcome! Please take a look around.)
Tips for Welcoming Customers in Japanese
1. Smile and make eye contact:
When welcoming customers, a warm smile and eye contact can significantly enhance their experience. It shows that you are happy to have them in your store and are ready to assist them.
2. Use honorific language:
In the formal expressions mentioned above, honorific language is used to show respect for the customers. This language makes them feel valued and appreciated.
3. Vary your expressions:
If you own a store that primarily caters to tourists or international customers, consider using both formal and informal expressions. This shows your flexibility and ability to adapt to different customers’ preferences.
4. Learn regional variations:
While Japanese has standard expressions, note that certain regions may have unique ways of welcoming customers, reflecting their local dialects and customs. Understanding these variations can create a more personal connection with customers from specific regions.
Examples of Regional Variations:
– In Osaka and surrounding Kansai region:
おいでやす (Oideyasu)
– In Hokkaido:
お越しくださいました (Okoshi kudasaimashita)
– In Okinawa:
むいびら (Muibira)
Note that using regional variations may be more appropriate when you are familiar with the local culture or serving customers from those specific regions.
Welcoming customers to your store in Japanese is a wonderful way to demonstrate the Japanese concept of “omotenashi,” which translates to exceptional hospitality. By using the appropriate phrases and maintaining a warm tone, you can create a welcoming and personalized experience for your customers.
