Even though yokoso and irasshaimase both translate as "welcome" they are used very differently. Yokoso is bacially the Japanese equivalent of the English "welcome to," as in welcome to my home, welcome to our school, etc. Perhaps you have heard the phrase Yokoso Japan (Welcome to Japan); it is the theme of a promotional campaign intended to try and boost the number of foreign visitors to Japan. Irasshaimase, on the other hand, basically is the same as saying "Hello, how may I help you?" This is used by businesses as a quick way to acknowledge the customer without sacrificing customer service, for many businesses are quite busy and someone isn't always able to personally greet you right away. That is why you'll hear a chorus of "irasshaimase!" when you enter a restaurant, for example: the employees are truly happy to see you and want you to know that. JUN Gifts recommend these items for both home and shop owners. |
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