Gaining the ability to express where you have been is essential when learning a new language. In Japanese, there are various ways to convey that you have visited a specific place, depending on the level of formality and the regional variation. In this guide, we will explore how to express this concept formally and informally in Japanese, providing you with plenty of tips and examples to enhance your understanding.
Table of Contents
1. Informal Expressions
When speaking casually with friends, family, or acquaintances, you can utilize less formal expressions to convey that you went somewhere. Here are a few examples:
a. 行った (itta)
The most straightforward and commonly used verb to express that you went somewhere is “itta”. You can simply place the name of the place you visited before this verb.
昨日、友達の家に行った。
(Kinō, tomodachi no ie ni itta.)
Yesterday, I went to my friend’s house.
b. 行ってきた (itte kita)
“Itte kita” is an informal expression used when you want to emphasize that you went somewhere and have returned. It literally means “I went and came back”.
京都に行ってきたよ。とてもきれいだった。
(Kyōto ni itte kita yo. Totemo kirei datta.)
I went to Kyoto. It was very beautiful.
2. Formal Expressions
When speaking in more formal situations, such as business or polite conversations, you should adjust your language accordingly. Here are a couple of formal expressions to use:
a. 伺いました (ukagaimashita)
“Ukagaimashita” is a polite verb form indicating that you went somewhere to show respect towards the listener.
先日、博物館に伺いました。
(Senjitsu, hakubutsukan ni ukagaimashita.)
The other day, I went to the museum.
b. 参りました (mairimashita)
“Mairimashita” is another respectful expression used to indicate that you went somewhere. It is often used when visiting someone’s house or a place of higher significance.
お寺に参りました。とても厳かな雰囲気でした。
(Otera ni mairimashita. Totemo oogonka na fun’iki deshita.)
I visited the temple. The atmosphere was very solemn.
3. Regional Variations
Japanese contains certain regional variations in vocabulary and expressions. Although the basic verbs remain the same, locals in different areas might use alternative words or phrases. Here are a couple of regional variations:
a. 行ってまいりました (ittemairimashita)
This expression is commonly used in the Kansai region of Japan (which includes cities like Osaka and Kyoto) to indicate that you went somewhere with respect. It is similar to “mairimashita” mentioned earlier, but with the addition of “itte” for emphasizing the act of going.
神戸に行ってまいりました。絶品のご飯をいただきましたよ。
(Kōbe ni ittemairimashita. Zeppei no gohan o itadakimashita yo.)
I went to Kobe. I had an extraordinary meal.
b. 行って来ました (itte kimashita)
People in the Tohoku region often use “itte kimashita” to express going somewhere and returning. This is similar to the informal expression “itte kita” but with a regional variation.
仙台に行って来ました。海がとてもきれいでしたよ。
(Sendai ni itte kimashita. Umi ga totemo kirei deshita yo.)
I went to Sendai. The sea was very beautiful.
Final Thoughts
Now that you have learned how to say “you went somewhere” in Japanese, you can confidently share your experiences with others, whether formally or informally. Remember to adjust your language based on the level of formality required in each situation, and be aware of any regional variations you might encounter. Practice using these expressions in conversations and gradually incorporate them into your Japanese speaking skills. Enjoy exploring Japan and sharing your adventures with others!
