Your first time learning the Kansai dialect: 10 phrases to use on your trip to Osaka

If you visit the Kansai region, such as Osaka, Kyoto, and Kobe, you'll surely hear a unique way of speaking that is slightly different from standard Japanese. This is the "Kansai dialect." In this article, we'll introduce 10 easy Kansai dialects that travelers can actually use while traveling.
- Table of Contents
- ①nanndeyanenn?
- ②ookini
- ③ mettya
- ④honnma?
- ⑤ sitemorote
- ⑥sinndoiwa
- ⑦tyau tyau
- ⑧ikoka?
- ⑨ Akan
- ⑩ Kananana~

①nanndeyanenn?
Meaning: Why not!
English: "What the heck!"
Explanation: Used for making quips or light jokes.
②ookini
Meaning: Thank you
English: "Thank you" (old-fashioned tone)
Explanation: Often heard in shops and restaurants.
③ mettya
Meaning: very/extremely
English: "Super" / "Very"
Explanation: Really delicious = Very delicious
④honnma?
Meaning: Really?
English: "Really?"
Explanation: Can be used to express surprise or confirmation.
⑤ sitemorote
Meaning: Please do something
English: "Thanks for doing that for me"
Explanation: A polite but somewhat frank expression.
⑥sinndoiwa
Meaning: tired/tough
English: "I'm exhausted"
Explanation: After a long walk, etc.
⑦tyau tyau
Meaning: No, no
English: "No no, that's not right"
Explanation: When gently correcting a mistake.
⑧ikoka?
Meaning: Shall we go?
English: "Shall we go?"
Explanation: Used when making a casual invitation.
⑨ Akan
Meaning: bad/not good
English: "Not good" / "No way"
Explanation: Useful for prohibition or negation.
⑩ Kananana~
Meaning: I'm in trouble
English: "That's tough..."
Explanation: Used to express a wry smile or slight dissatisfaction.
If you learn and use even a little bit of Kansai dialect, you will surely become closer to the locals. Feel free to use it when asking for directions or talking to store clerks. Why not try joining a private guided tour hosted by a local using the Kansai dialect you have learned?

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Trip To Japan is the ultimate travel guide, with a huge selection of bookable tickets and experiences across Japan. From the vibrant city life of Tokyo to the serene landscapes of Hokkaido to the tropical beaches of Okinawa, we've got it all covered. Our platform offers comprehensive resources on popular attractions, local cuisine, shopping, accommodation and practical travel tips. What sets us apart is our customizable multi-day tours, including hotels, JR passes and guided tours, all in one checkout. Whether you're exploring the historic temples of Kyoto, tasting the cuisine of Osaka or relaxing on the beautiful beaches of Okinawa, Trip To Japan ensures a seamless and unforgettable journey. Discover the beauty and diversity of Japan easily and conveniently with Trip To Japan.
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