Japan has a rich culture, cuisine, and technology that attracts tourists from all over the world. While English has been taught in Japanese schools for over 150 years, the emphasis on reading and writing has led to a lack of emphasis on speaking and listening skills. According to the EF Education First’s English Proficiency Index, Japan ranks 53rd out of 100 countries in English proficiency. However, there are efforts being made by both the government and private sectors to improve English education and support foreign visitors. While the language barrier can be a challenge, learning some basic Japanese phrases can make a big difference when it comes to communication and cultural understanding.