旅行をする

You use this phrase just like any other 'noun + suru' verb. In casual talk, you might say ryokou suru. In polite settings, use ryokou o shimasu. If you are currently on a trip, say ryokou o shite imasu. You can add destinations using the particle ni or e. For example, Kyoto ni ryokou o suru means 'travel to Kyoto.' It is very flexible and easy to plug into sentences.

Use this when chatting about your hobbies with new friends. It is perfect for telling your boss about your upcoming vacation plans. You can also use it when asking someone for travel recommendations. If you are texting a friend about a dream destination, this is the phrase. It fits perfectly in blog posts or social media captions about your adventures. Basically, if there is a suitcase involved, this phrase works.

Do not use this for your daily commute to work. That is shukkin. Avoid using it for business trips where you only see meeting rooms. For that, use the specific word shutchou. Also, do not use it for a quick walk to the park. That is just sanpo or 'going out.' If the trip is purely for a specific activity like 'shopping,' just say 'going shopping' instead. It is meant for the 'journey' aspect of life.

Japan has a massive culture of domestic travel. People love traveling to see seasonal changes like cherry blossoms or autumn leaves. There is a strong tradition of bringing back omiyage (souvenirs) for coworkers. If you tell someone ryokou o suru, they might expect a snack later! Group tours used to be the norm, but solo travel is now very popular. Traveling to hot springs (onsen) is a national pastime.

You will often hear kaigai ryokou for traveling abroad. Hitori ryokou is the term for traveling alone. If you are going on a day trip, use higaeri ryokou. For a graduation trip, students use sotsugyou ryokou. You can also drop the particle o to make it ryokou suru. This sounds a bit more fast-paced and casual in conversation.