If words look complicated, just spread them into syllables, and things will look a lot easier.
Below are just a few basics words that will help when travelling.  You could also purchase a pocket phrase book to have on hand as well.

ohayoogozaimasu
o / ha / yo / o / go / za / i / ma / su   -   good morning (until about 10:00am)

konnichiwa
ko / n / ni / chi / wa   -   good afternoon (until about dark)

konbanwas
kon / ban / wa   -   good evening (used after dark)

arigato
a / ri / ga / to   -   thanks (general)

domo arigato
do / mo / a / ri / ga / to   -  thanks a lot (when you recieve a gift etc)

Hai  -  Yes

hajimemashite
ha / ji / me / ma / sh / te  -  how do you do?

watashi no namae wa ..your name..desu
wa / ta / shi / no / na / ma / e / wa / your name / des / (don't pronounce the u)  -  My name is (and state your name)