N5 · Phrase guide
Doko Desu Ka — Asking Where Things Are
どこですか
どこですか
Where is it?
Nuance
Place the topic before どこ: 駅はどこですか. どこにありますか is slightly more formal/locational.
Cultural note
Staff often gesture or walk you partway—following quickly is polite. Say ありがとうございます after.
Examples
トイレはどこですか。
Where is the restroom?
Restaurant
出口はどこ？
Where's the exit?
Casual with friends
Common mistakes
- Only saying どこ？ without context to strangers
- Confusing どこに行きますか (where are you going) when asking location
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