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Safety Japanese

Warning signs: important Japanese that helps you avoid mistakes.

Warning signs are practical Japanese. They appear in stations, construction areas, escalators, parks, tourist sites, and public buildings. Reading them correctly can keep you safe and save embarrassment.

Five warning words to learn first

ちゅうい
chuui
caution / attention
Example: 足元注意
Ashimoto chuui
When to use it: On wet floors, stairs, and hazard notices.
きけん
kiken
danger
Example: 危険です。
Kiken desu.
When to use it: On serious hazard signs.
きんし
kinshi
prohibited
Example: 立入禁止
Tachiiri kinshi
When to use it: When something is forbidden.
たちいりきんし
tachiiri kinshi
no entry / entry prohibited
Example: 立入禁止
Tachiiri kinshi
When to use it: At restricted areas, work zones, and closed sections.
さわらないでください
Sawaranaide kudasai
Please do not touch.
Example: 触らないでください。
Sawaranaide kudasai.
When to use it: In museums, displays, and protected areas.

Common warning combinations

あしもとちゅうい
ashimoto chuui
watch your step
Example: 足元注意
Ashimoto chuui
When to use it: On stairs, uneven floors, or train gaps.
かきげんきん
kaki genkin
no open flames / strict fire prohibition
Example: 火気厳禁
Kaki genkin
When to use it: Near fuel, gas, or dangerous materials.
きんえん
kin'en
no smoking
Example: 禁煙です。
Kin'en desu.
When to use it: In indoor public spaces and restaurants.