北口(きたぐち)

北口(きたぐち) means the north exit or entrance, most commonly of a train station. Japanese stations typically label exits by compass direction to help people navigate.

Forms

北(きた) (north) + 口(ぐち) (exit/entrance, with rendaku from くち)

Station exit set

• 北口(きたぐち): north exit
• 南口(みなみぐち): south exit
• 東口(ひがしぐち): east exit
• 西口(にしぐち): west exit

OTHER ～口(ぐち) COMPOUNDS:

• 改札口(かいさつぐち): ticket gate
• 出口(でぐち): exit
• 入口(いりぐち): entrance
• 中央口(ちゅうおうぐち): central exit

Usage

Very common when giving directions to meet someone, especially at stations: 「北口(きたぐち)で待(ま)ってて」 (Wait at the north exit). The area around each exit often has a distinct character — different shops, bus routes, and landmarks.