歓迎しましょう vs 歓迎します vs ようこそ


What is the difference between:

  1. 歓迎しましょう (Kangei shimashou)

  2. 歓迎します (Kangei shimasu)

  3. ようこそ (Yōkoso)

They all mean "welcome" but in which occasions should we use which more
appropriately. Thank you!




  1. 歓迎しましょう is literally _Let's welcome_. If you are with a friend A, and read an email that another friend B is coming to Japan next week, then you say to A "(Bを)歓迎しましょう".
  2. 歓迎します is _I (will) welcome_. This is usually used with explicit objects and sounds somewhat formal (so common in writing). You can write to a guest あなたを歓迎します. The objects does not have to be animate: 質問を歓迎します _I welcome questions_.
  3. ようこそ is the only option if you want a phrase to put in a banner (I mean a large sheet of cloth you hold e.g. at the gate of airport). It is also the most appropriate phrase to say to a guest who just arrived.

