How to Say ‘The shrine is over there.’ in Japanese
神社はあちらです。
jinja wa achira desu
[JEEN-jah wah AH-chee-rah dess]
💬 Usage Tip: あちら is a politer form of あそこ "over there", and it's the version staff and guides use when giving directions.
Phrase Breakdown
神社は
jinja wa
the shrine (topic)
神社 (jinja) means shrine. は (pronounced "wa") marks the topic.
神社は静かです。
The shrine is quiet.
Words in this phrase
神社
jinja
[JEEN-jah]
Shinto shrine
A place of worship for Shinto gods, usually marked by a torii gate.
お正月に神社へ行きます。
I go to a shrine at New Year.
は
wa
[wah]
topic marker
は marks the topic of the sentence.
空席はありますか。
Are there any seats available?
あちらです。
achira desu
is over there
あちら is a polite way to say "over there" and is often used when giving directions.
駅はあちらです。
The station is over there.
Words in this phrase
あちら
achira
[AH-chee-rah]
over there (polite)
A polite word for a place or direction far from both speaker and listener; often used by shop staff.
レジはあちらにございます。
The register is over there.
です
desu
[dess]
is; polite copula
A polite sentence ending used in formal conversation.
少し伺いたいです。
I would like to ask a little.
Get the Full Learning Experience
This lesson is just a preview. Download PrettyFluent to practice pronunciation, roleplay conversations, and master vocabulary with spaced repetition.
Pronunciation Feedback
AI-powered feedback on what you say out loud
Spaced Repetition
Retain vocabulary long-term with smart practice
Immersive Roleplaying
Practice real conversations with AI partners
Lessons for Your Situation
Request lessons tailored to your specific needs
Get Full LessonWhat Learners Are Saying
“Teaching in Osaka and I wanted to connect with my students beyond the classroom. The everyday conversation made my Japanese feel natural, not textbook-y.”
Mia S., 25, English Teacher
“I hop cities every few months and this is the only app that actually prepares me for living somewhere, not just visiting. Tokyo was the real test — passed with flying colors.”
James O., 28, Remote Worker
“I tried five different apps before this one. The roleplay conversations are what finally made things click. I actually remember what I learn now.”
Sofia R., 31, Marketing Manager