Formal — to staff
Public · Transport
You
すみません、こちらの席、空いていますか？
すみません、こちらのせき、あいていますか？
Excuse me, is this seat free/available?
Romaji: Sumimasen, kochira no seki, aiteimasu ka? / Reply Romaji: A, sumimasen. Aiteimasu. Douzo.
Reply
あ、すみません。空いています。どうぞ。
あ、すみません。あいています。どうぞ。
Oh, excuse me. Yes, it's free. Please.
Gesture & etiquette
Gently point to the seat with the bag.
Do not touch other people's belongings without permission. Be polite and avoid confrontation. If the seat isn't truly free (e.g., someone is saving it for a companion), accept their answer gracefully.
#train#subway#seat#etiquette#baggage