Do you often feel lonely and sad? Do you long for romance and are willing to do whatever it takes to meet that special person? Speaking another language could revolutionize your love life! So, why wait? Learning how to say ‘love’ in Japanese could be just what you need to find it.
Or perhaps you were lucky, and have found your Japanese partner already. Fantastic! Yet, a cross-cultural relationship comes with unique challenges. Learning how to speak your lover’s language will greatly improve your communication and enhance the relationship. At JapanesePod101, our team will teach you all the words, quotes and phrases you need to woo your Japanese lover with excellence! Our tutors provide personal assistance, with plenty of extra material available to make Japanese dating easy for you.
Table of Contents
- Common Phrases You’ll Need for a Date
- The Most Romantic Ideas for a Date
- Must-know Valentine’s Day Vocabulary
- Japanese Love Phrases for Valentine’s Day
- Japanese Quotes about Love
- Marriage Proposal Lines
- 15 Most Common Break-Up Lines
- Will Falling in Love Help You Learn Japanese Faster?
Start with a bonus, and download the ‘How To be a Good Lover Cheat Sheet’ for FREE! (Logged-In Member Only)
1. Common Phrases You’ll Need for a Date
So, you have met your Japanese love interest. Congratulations! Who knows where this could take you…?! However, the two of you have just met and you’re not ready to say the Japanese word for love just yet. Great, it is better to get to know him/her first. Wow your prospective love by using these Japanese date phrases to set up a spectacular first date.
Would you like to go out to dinner with me?
- あなたは私と一緒に夕食に出かけたいですか？
- anata wa watashi to issho ni yūshoku ni dekaketai desu ka?
The important question! In most cultures, this phrase indicates: ‘I’m romantically interested in you’. Flirting in Japanese is no different, so don’t take your date to Mcdonald’s!
Are you free this weekend?
- この週末は暇ですか。
- kono shūmatsu wa hima desu ka?
This is a preamble to asking your love interest on a date. If you get an immediate ‘Yes’, that’s good news!
Would you like to hang out with me?
- 私と一緒にブラブラしたいですか？
- watashi to issho ni burabura shitai desu ka?
You like her/him, but you’re not sure if there’s chemistry. Ask them to hang out first to see if a dinner date is next.
What time shall we meet tomorrow?
- 明日、何時に会いましょうか？
- ashita nanji ni aimashō ka?
Set a time, and be sure to arrive early! Nothing spoils a potential relationship more than a tardy date.
Where shall we meet?
- どこで会いましょうか？
- doko de aimashō ka?
You can ask this, but also suggest a place.
You look great.
- 元気そうですね。
- genki sō desu ne.
A wonderful ice breaker! This phrase will help them relax a bit – they probably took great care to look their best just for you.
You are so cute.
- あなたはとてもかわいいです。
- anata wa totemo kawaī desu.
If the two of you are getting on really well, this is a fun, flirtatious phrase to use.
What do you think of this place?
- この場所をどう思いますか？
- konobasho o dō omoimasu ka?
This another good conversation starter. Show off your Japanese language skills!
Can I see you again?
- また会えますか？
- mata aemasu ka?
So the date went really well – don’t waste time! Make sure you will see each other again.
Shall we go somewhere else?
- どこか他のところに行きましょうか？
- doko ka hoka no tokoro ni ikimashō ka?
If the place you meet at is not great, you can suggest going elsewhere. It is also a good question to follow the previous one. Variety is the spice of life!
I know a good place.
- いい場所を知っています。
- ī basho o shitte imasu.
Use this with the previous question. However, don’t say if you don’t know a good place!
I will drive you home.
- あなたを家まで送ります。
- anata o ie made okurimasu.
If your date doesn’t have transport, this is a polite, considerate offer. However, don’t be offended if she/he turns you down on the first date. Especially a woman might not feel comfortable letting you drive her home when the two of you are still basically strangers.
That was a great evening.
- 素晴らしい夜でした。
- subarashī yoru deshita.
This is a good phrase to end the evening with.
When can I see you again?
- いつまたあなたに会えますか？
- itsu mata anata ni aemasu ka?
If he/she replied ‘Yes’ to ‘Can I see you again?’, this is the next important question.
I’ll call you.
- 電話します。
- denwa shimasu.
Say this only if you really mean to do it. In many cultures, this could imply that you’re keeping the proverbial backdoor open.
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2. The Most Romantic Ideas for a Date
You learned all the Japanese phrases to make a date – congratulations! Now you have to decide where to meet, which can be tricky. Discuss these options with your lover to gauge whether you like the same things. Check out romantic date ideas in Japanese below!
museum
- 美術館
- bijutsukan
If you’re looking for unique date ideas that are fun but won’t break the bank, museums are the perfect spot! You won’t be running out of things to say in the conversations.
candlelit dinner
- キャンドルディナー
- kyandorudeinā
A candlelit dinner is perhaps best to reserve for when the relationship is getting serious. It’s very intimate, and says: “Romance!” It’s a fantastic choice if you’re sure you and your date are in love with each other!
go to the zoo
- 動物園に行く
- dōbutsuen ni iku
This is a good choice for shy lovers who want to get the conversation going. Just make sure your date likes zoos, as some people dislike them. Maybe not for the first date, but this is also a great choice if your lover has children – you’ll win his/her adoration for inviting them along!
go for a long walk
- 長い散歩に出る
- nagai sanpo ni deru
Need to talk about serious stuff, or just want to relax with your date? Walking together is soothing, and a habit you can keep up together always! Just make sure it’s a beautiful walk that’s not too strenuous.
go to the opera
- オペラに行く
- opera ni iku
This type of date should only be attempted if both of you love the opera. It can be a special treat, followed by a candlelit dinner!
go to the aquarium
- 水族館に行く
- suizokukan ni iku
Going to the aquarium is another good idea if you need topics for conversation, or if you need to impress your lover’s kids! Make sure your date doesn’t have a problem with aquariums.
walk on the beach
- 浜辺を歩く
- hamabe o aruku
This can be a very romantic stroll, especially at night! The sea is often associated with romance and beauty.
have a picnic
- ピクニックをする
- pikunikku o suru
If you and your date need to get more comfortable together, this can be a fantastic date. Spending time in nature is soothing and calms the nerves.
cook a meal together
- 一緒に食事を作る
- issho ni shokuji o tsukuru
If you want to get an idea of your date’s true character in one go, this is an excellent date! You will quickly see if the two of you can work together in a confined space. If it works, it will be fantastic for the relationship and create a sense of intimacy. If not, you will probably part ways!
have dinner and see a movie
- 夕食を食べて映画を見る
- yūshoku o tabete ēga o miru
This is traditional date choice works perfectly well. Just make sure you and your date like the same kind of movies!
3. Must-know Valentine’s Day Vocabulary
Expressing your feelings honestly is very important in any relationship all year round. Yet, on Valentine’s Day you really want to shine. Impress your lover this Valentine’s with your excellent vocabulary, and make his/her day! We teach you, in fun, effective ways, the meanings of the words and how to pronounce them. You can also copy the characters and learn how to write ‘I love you’ in Japanese – think how impressed your date will be!
4. Japanese Love Phrases for Valentine’s Day
So, you now have the basic Valentine’s Day vocabulary under your belt. Well done! But, do you know how to say ‘I love you’ in Japanese yet? Or perhaps you are still only friends. So, do you know how to say ‘I like you’ or ‘I have a crush on you’ in Japanese? No? Don’t worry, here are all the love phrases you need to bowl over your Japanese love on this special day!
I love you.
- あなたの事を愛しています。
- Anata no koto o aishite imasu.
Saying ‘I love you’ in Japanese carries the same weight as in all languages. Use this only if you’re sure and sincere about your feelings for your partner/friend.
You mean so much to me.
- あなたは私にとって、とても大事な存在です。
- Anata wa watashi ni totte, totemo daiji na sonzai desu.
This is a beautiful expression of gratitude that will enhance any relationship! It makes the receiver feel appreciated and their efforts recognized.
Will you be my Valentine?
- バレンタインを一緒に過ごしてくれる？
- Barentain o issho ni sugoshite kureru?
With these words, you are taking your relationship to the next level! Or, if you have been a couple for a while, it shows that you still feel the romance. So, go for it!
You’re so beautiful.
- 君はとても美しいよ。
- Kimi wa totemo utsukushii yo.
If you don’t know how to say ‘You’re pretty’ in Japanese, this is a good substitute, gentlemen!
I think of you as more than a friend.
- 私は、友達以上としてあなたのことを考えている。
- Watashi wa, tomodachi ijō to shite anata no koto o kangaete iru.
Say this if you are not yet sure that your romantic feelings are reciprocated. It is also a safe go-to if you’re unsure about the Japanese dating culture.
A hundred hearts would be too few to carry all my love for you.
- 百個のハートでも、君を愛しているというのは表現しつくせない。
- Hya-kko no hāto demo, kimi o aishite iru to iu no wa hyōgen shi tsukusenai.
You romantic you…! When your heart overflows with love, this would be the best phrase to use.
Love is just love. It can never be explained.
- 「愛」はただ単に「愛」である。説明なんてできない。
- “Ai” wa tada tan ni “ai” de aru. Setsumei nante dekinai.
If you fell in love unexpectedly or inexplicably, this one’s for you.
You’re so handsome.
- あなた、とてもハンサムですね。
- Anata, totemo hansamu desu ne.
Ladies, this phrase lets your Japanese love know how much you appreciate his looks! Don’t be shy to use it; men like compliments too.
I’ve got a crush on you.
- 私はあなたに一目惚れした。
- Watashi wa anata ni hitomebore shita.
If you like someone, but you’re unsure about starting a relationship, it would be prudent to say this. It simply means that you like someone very, very much and think they’re amazing.
You make me want to be a better man.
- あなたは私により良い男になろうと思わせてくれた。
- Anata wa watashi ni yori yoi otoko ni narō to omowasete kureta.
Gentlemen, don’t claim this phrase as your own! It hails from the movie ‘As Good as it Gets’, but it is sure to make your Japanese girlfriend feel very special. Let her know that she inspires you!
Let all that you do be done in love.
- どんな事も愛情をもってやりなさい。
- Donna koto mo aijō o motte yarinasai
We hope.
You are my sunshine, my love.
- あなたは私の太陽、そして愛です。
- Anata wa watashi no taiyō, soshite ai desu.
A compliment that lets your lover know they bring a special quality to your life. Really nice!
Words can’t describe my love for you.
- 言葉であなたへの愛情は言い表せられない。
- Kotoba de anata e no aijō wa iiarawasenai.
Better say this when you’re feeling serious about the relationship! It means that your feelings are very intense.
We were meant to be together.
- 私たちは一緒になる運命だったんだ。
- Watashi-tachi wa issho ni naru unmei datta n da.
This is a loving affirmation that shows you see a future together, and that you feel a special bond with your partner.
If you were thinking about someone while reading this, you’re definitely in love.
- これを読んでいる時に誰かの事を考えているなら、あなたは恋に落ちているに違いない。
- Kore o yonde iru toki ni dareka no koto o kangaete iru nara, anta wa koi ni ochite iru ni chigainai.
Here’s something fun to tease your lover with. And hope he/she was thinking of you!
5. Japanese Quotes about Love
You’re a love champ! You and your Japanese lover are getting along fantastically, your dates are awesome, your Valentine’s Day together was spectacular, and you’re very much in love. Good for you! Here are some beautiful phrases of endearment in Japanese that will remind him/her who is in your thoughts all the time.
6. Marriage Proposal Lines
Wow. Your Japanese lover is indeed the love of your life – congratulations! And may only happiness follow the two of you! In most traditions, the man asks the woman to marry; this is also the Japanese custom. Here are a few sincere and romantic lines that will help you to ask your lady-love for her hand in marriage.
7. 15 Most Common Break-Up Lines
Instead of moving towards marriage or a long-term relationship, you find that the spark is not there for you. That is a pity! But even though breaking up is never easy, continuing a bad or unfulfilling relationship would be even harder. Remember to be kind to the person you are going to say goodbye to; respect and sensitivity cost nothing. Here are some phrases to help you break up gently.
- 私達、話し合った方が良いね。
- Watashi-tachi, hanashiatta hō ga ii ne.
This is not really a break-up line, but it is a good conversation opener with a serious tone.
It’s not you. It’s me.
- あなたのせいじゃない。私のせい。
- Anata no sei ja nai. Watashi no sei.
As long as you mean it, this can be a kind thing to say. It means that there’s nothing wrong with your Japanese lover as a person, but that you need something different from a relationship.
I’m just not ready for this kind of relationship.
- まだ付き合うとか考えられないんだ。
- Mada tsukiau toka kangaerarenai n da.
Things moved a bit fast and got too intense, too soon? Painful as it is, honesty is often the best way to break up with somebody.
Let’s just be friends.
- 友達のままでいましょう。
- Tomodachi no mama de imashō.
If the relationship was very intense, and you have sent many ‘i love u’ texts in Japanese, this would not be a good breakup line. Feelings need to calm down before you can be friends, if ever. If the relationship has not really developed yet, a friendship would be possible.
I think we need a break.
- 距離を置いたほうがいいと思う。
- Kyori o oita hō ga ii to omou.
This is again honest, and to the point. No need to play with someone’s emotions by not letting them know how you feel. However, this could imply that you may fall in love with him/her again after a period of time, so use with discretion.
You deserve better.
- 君にはもっといい人がいるよ。
- Kimi ni wa motto ii hito ga iru yo.
Yes, he/she probably deserves a better relationship if your own feelings have cooled down.
We should start seeing other people.
- お互い、他の人を探すべきだよ。
- O-tagai, hoka no hito o sagasu beki da yo.
This is probably the least gentle break-up phrase, so reserve it for a lover that doesn’t get the message!
I need my space.
- 一人になりたいんだ。
- Hitori ni naritai n da.
When a person is too clingy or demanding, this would be an suitable break-up phrase. It is another good go-to for that lover who doesn’t get the message!
I think we’re moving too fast.
- 急ぎすぎたんだと思う。
- Isogisugita n da to omou.
Say this if you want to keep the relationship, but need to slow down its progress a bit. It is also good if you feel things are getting too intense for your liking. However, it is not really a break-up line, so be careful not to mislead.
I need to focus on my career.
- 仕事に集中したいんだ。
- Shigoto ni shūchū shitai n da.
If you feel that you will not be able to give 100% in a relationship due to career demands, this is the phrase to use. It’s also good if you are unwilling to give up your career for a relationship.
I’m not good enough for you.
- 自分はあなたにはふさわしくないと思う。
- Jibun wa anata ni wa fusawashikunai to omou.
Say this only if you really believe it, or you’ll end up sounding false. Break-ups are usually hard for the receiving party, so don’t insult him/her with an insincere comment.
I just don’t love you anymore.
- もう気持ちが冷めてしまったんだ。
- Mō kimochi ga samete shimatta n da.
This harsh line is sometimes the best one to use if you are struggling to get through to a stubborn, clingy lover who won’t accept your break up. Use it as a last resort. Then switch your phone off and block their emails!
We’re just not right for each other.
- 相性が良くなかったんだよ。
- Aishō ga yokunakatta n da yo.
If this is how you truly feel, you need to say it. Be kind, gentle and polite.
It’s for the best.
- これでよかったんだよ。
- Kore de yokatta n da yo.
This phrase is called for if circumstances are difficult and the relationship is not progressing well. Love should enhance one’s life, not burden it!
We’ve grown apart.
- こんなに離れてしまっていたんだ。
- Kon’na ni hanarete shimatte ita n da.
Cross-cultural relationships are often long-distance ones, and it is easy to grow apart over time.
8. Will Falling in Love help you Learn Japanese faster?
Most people will agree that the above statement is a no-brainer – of course it will! Your body will be flooded with feel-good hormones, which are superb motivators for anything. JapanesePod101 is one of the best portals to help help make this a reality, so don’t hesitate to enroll now! Let’s quickly look at the reasons why falling in love will speed up your learning of the Japanese language.
Three Reasons Why Having a Lover will Help you Learn Japanese Faster!
1- Being in a love relationship with your Japanese speaking partner will immerse you in the culture
JapanesePod101 uses immersive methods and tools to teach you Japanese, but having a relationship with a native speaker will be a very valuable addition to your learning experience! You will gain exposure to their world, realtime and vividly, which will make the language come alive even more for you. The experience is likely to expand your world-view, which should motivate you to learn Japanese even faster.
2- Having your Japanese romantic partner will mean more opportunity to practice speaking
Nothing beats continuous practice when learning a new language. Your partner will probably be very willing to assist you in this, as your enhanced Japanese language skills will enhance the relationship. Communication is, after all, one of the most important pillars of a good partnership. Also, you will get to impress your lover with the knowledge gained through your studies – a win/win situation!
3- A supportive Japanese lover is likely to make a gentle, patient teacher and study aid!
With his/her heart filled with love and goodwill for you, your Japanese partner is likely to patiently and gently correct your mistakes when you speak. This goes not only for grammar, but also for accent and meaning. With his/her help, you could sound like a native in no time!
Three Reasons Why JapanesePod101 helps you learn Japanese Even Faster when you’re In Love
Start with a bonus, and download the ‘How To be a Good Lover Cheat Sheet’ for FREE! (Logged-In Member Only)
1- All the Resources and Materials Will Help Both of You
Falling in love with a man or woman speaking Japanese is an opportunity for both of you to learn a new language! For this reason, every lesson, transcript, vocabulary list, and resource at JapanesePod101 is translated into both English and Japanese. So, while your partner can help you learn Japanese faster, you can potentially also help him/her learn and master English!
2- Lessons Are Designed to Help You Understand and Engage with Japanese Culture
At JapanesePod101, our focus is to help our students learn practical vocabulary and phrases used by everyday people in Japan. This means that, from your very first lesson, you can apply what you learn immediately! So, when your Japanese partner wants to go out to a restaurant, play Pokemon Go, or attend just about any social function, you have the vocabulary and phrases necessary to have a great time!
3- Access to Special Resources Dedicated to Romantic Japanese Phrases
You now have access to JapanesePod101’s specially-developed sections and tools to teach you love words, phrases, and cultural insights to help you find and attract your Japanese soul mate. A personal tutor will assist you to master these brilliantly – remember to invite him/her to your wedding!
