Just like in many other countries and regions, people in Japan say "Happy Birthday" to celebrate someone's special day. However, the phrase you use can vary depending on your relationship with the person. In this article, we'll introduce key points to keep in mind when saying "Happy Birthday" in Japanese. We've also included conversation examples, so be sure to check them out!
How Do You Say "Happy Birthday" in Japanese?
In Japanese, you say "お誕生日おめでとう (Otanjoubi Omedetou)" to celebrate someone's birthday. The "O" in "Otanjoubi" adds politeness, "Tanjoubi" means "birthday," and "Omedetou" expresses congratulations. The word "Omedetou" actually originates from "Medetai," which means "auspicious" or "joyous." Over time, "Medetai" evolved into "Omedetou" with the addition of the polite prefix "O," making it a word for offering congratulations.
This phrase is commonly used to express gratitude and joy towards family members, friends, and other special people. However, it can also be used to celebrate someone you support, such as your favorite singer, idol, or athlete. Regardless of the context, it conveys your heartfelt wishes for their happiness.
What's the Difference Between "Otanjoubi Omedetou" and "Otanjoubi Omedetou Gozaimasu"?
The difference between "Otanjoubi Omedetou" and "Otanjoubi Omedetou Gozaimasu" lies in the level of politeness. Which one you use depends on your relationship with the person you're speaking to.
For example, if you're talking to a close friend, a coworker of the same age, or a family member, the more casual "Otanjoubi Omedetou" is commonly used.
On the other hand, adding "Gozaimasu" makes the phrase more polite, so it's often used in formal situations or when speaking to superiors at work, teachers at school, or other people in higher positions.
How Do You Write "Otanjoubi Omedetou" in Hiragana?
In hiragana, "Otanjoubi Omedetou" is written as "おたんじょうびおめでとう." You can also say "たんじょうびおめでとう" without the "お," but including it adds a sense of warmth and politeness.
However, writing it entirely in hiragana can sometimes come across as childlike, so it's best used in casual settings. For example, if you're sending a birthday card or message to a friend or family member, writing it in hiragana can make it look cute and friendly.
How Do You Write "Otanjoubi Omedetou" in Kanji?
"Otanjoubi Omedetou" can be written in kanji as "お誕生日おめでとう" or "御誕生日おめでとう," but the former is more commonly used. This is because the latter has a slightly formal and rigid tone. However, it is not unheard of in situations where politeness is highly valued.
How to Respond to "Otanjoubi Omedetou"
The basic response to "Otanjoubi Omedetou" is the common Japanese expression of gratitude, "ありがとう (Arigatou)." However, depending on your relationship with the person, the most suitable response may vary.
How to answer to friends and close colleagues
| Japanese | Romaji | Meaning |
| ありがとう！ | Arigatou! | A simple way to express gratitude. |
| ありがとう、うれしい！ | Arigatou, Ureshii! | Adds an extra touch of happiness. |
| 覚えていてくれてありがとう | Oboete ite kurete arigatou | Expresses appreciation for remembering your birthday. |
How to Respond to Superiors
| Japanese | Romaji | Meaning |
| ありがとうございます | Arigatou gozaimasu | A polite way to say thank you. |
| 素敵な一年にします | Suteki na ichinen ni shimasu | Expresses hope for a wonderful year ahead. |
| この一年も精進します | Kono ichinen mo shoujin shimasu | Shows determination to keep improving over the next year. |
What If Someone Says, "My Birthday Isn't Something to Celebrate"?
One thing to be mindful of is when someone responds with "Mou toshi wa toritakunai" (もう歳は取りたくない – meaning they don't want to get older) or "Omedetaku nai" (おめでたくない – meaning they don't feel like celebrating). Some Japanese people are sensitive about their age, so you might come across this kind of reaction.
In such cases, the person might genuinely dislike their birthday, or they could just be feeling shy about it. If they're laughing, it's likely just embarrassment, so there's no need to worry. However, if they seem uncomfortable, it's best to change the topic rather than pushing the conversation further.
Other Ways to Say "Otanjoubi Omedetou"
In Japan, people also say "ハッピーバースデー" (Happy Birthday), especially in text messages on social media. Additionally, there are casual abbreviations like "たんおめ" (Tan ome) and "おめたん" (Ome tan), which are popular among younger people. These are only used among friends or family, so avoid using them with superiors or in formal situations.
Phrases to Use Alongside "Otanjoubi Omedetou"
Adding one of the following phrases can make your birthday message even more heartfelt:
| Japanese | Romaji | Meaning |
| 素敵な一年を！ | Suteki na ichinen wo! | Wishing you a wonderful year ahead. |
| 幸せな日を過ごしてね | Shiawase na hi wo sugoshite ne | Wishing you a happy day. |
| 楽しい一年になりますように | Tanoshii ichinen ni narimasu youni | Hoping you have a fun year. |
| これからも元気でいてください | Korekara mo genki de ite kudasai | Wishing you continued good health (often used for older people). |
How Do People Celebrate Birthdays in Japan?
In Japan, birthdays are not only celebrated with the words "Otanjoubi omedetou," but also through gifts and letters. Family members and romantic partners often book a special restaurant or prepare a fancy meal at home to celebrate.
When it comes to birthday gifts, some people buy them as a surprise, while others ask the recipient what they want in advance and go shopping together. Among friends, thoughtful presents—rather than expensive ones—are appreciated. Giving something too costly might make the recipient feel pressured.
When giving a birthday gift, it's common to include a message card with a celebratory note. A photo album filled with shared memories also makes for a great gift.
If a friend or colleague is celebrating their birthday, it's common to go out for dinner together around that time. Many izakayas and restaurants in Japan offer special birthday dessert plates, so you might want to check when making a reservation.
A classic birthday cake in Japan is a sponge cake topped with strawberries, known as "shortcake." Typically, a whole cake is decorated with a message plate and candles. After lighting the candles, the lights are turned off, and everyone sings "Happy Birthday to You" before celebrating.
Are There Dialects for "Otanjoubi Omedetou" in Japan?
Except for Okinawa, most regions in Japan do not have a dialectal version of "Otanjoubi Omedetou." In Okinawa, people say "うまりびーかりゆしやいびーん" (Umari bii kariyushi yaibiin). "うまりびー" (Umari bii) means "birthday," "かりゆし"(kariyushi) means "auspicious" or "joyous," and "やいびーん" (yaibiin) is a polite sentence-ending expression.
Conversation Examples for Saying "Happy Birthday"
Celebrating a Friend's Birthday
A: Hey, guess what day it is today? （Nee, kyou ha nan no hi dato omou?）
B: Huh? Just a normal day, right? （E? Futsuu no hi desho?）
A: Nope! It's your birthday! Happy Birthday!（Chigau yo, B no tanjyoubi jan. Otanjyoubi omedetou!）
B: Thanks! I'm so happy!（Arigatou! Mettya ureshii!）
Birthday Surprise for a Partner
A: Hey, can you come with me tonight? （Nee, konya tsukiatte kureru?）
B: Sure, but why? Is something going on?（Iikedo? Nanika aruno?）
A: I just need you to come shopping with me.（Kaimono ni tsukiatte hoshiinda）
B: Alright, got it.（Un, wakatta）
(Later that night, at the meeting spot…)
A: Here, this is for you! Happy Birthday!（Hai, kore! Happy Birthday!）
B: Wow, thank you! I'm so touched!（Arigatou! Kandou shityatta!）
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