Resources to learn a specific regional dialect (e.g., Kansai)
An Insight Into the World's Japanese Dialects and Accents: Resources to learn a specific regional dialect (e.g., Kansai)
To learn a specific regional dialect like Kansai-ben (the Kansai dialect), there are various types of resources available such as online courses, podcasts, books, self-study websites, and video lessons. Here is a summary of recommended resources for learning Kansai dialect:
Online Self-Study Websites and Courses
- Kansai-ben Self-study Site (kansaiben.com) offers grammar explanations, short video clips, oral and aural exercises, and examples for practice.
- Introduction to Kansai dialect A2 Self-Study Course by Minato offers interactive video learning with quizzes for beginners and covers cultural and linguistic features of the dialect.
- Go! Go! Nihon offers a paid online Kansai-ben course with lessons including animation, text files, conversation videos, quizzes, and a community for interaction. It is designed for learners with at least JLPT N5 level Japanese.
Books
- “Colloquial Kansai Japanese: The Dialects and Culture of the Kansai Region” is a compact, clear guide with grammar, a Kansai dictionary, sample phrases, conversations, and cultural insights. It covers everyday situations and local specialties.
- Some learners recommend older books such as “How to Speak Osaka Dialect” for more traditional expressions.
Podcasts and Audio
- Nあ～ Casual Nihongo is a podcast featuring real Kansai-ben conversations with explanations and quizzes to help listeners improve their listening skills.
Video and YouTube
- Various Kansai-ben lecture playlists on YouTube, such as @kansaiben and @nihongonomori2013.
- Kansai Japanese Guide by Ritsumeikan University offers Kansai-ben texts and videos with subtitles.
Community and Tutors
- You can find tutors offering Kansai dialect lessons online (e.g., Preply tutors).
- Online forums and Reddit threads also discuss Kansai dialect learning and share resources.
Summary Table
| Resource Type | Examples/Providers | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Self-study Websites | kansaiben.com, Minato A2 Course | Grammar, videos, audio, quizzes |
| Online Courses | Go! Go! Nihon Kansai-ben Course | Paid, interactive, community support |
| Books | Colloquial Kansai Japanese (Tuttle Library) | Grammar, dictionary, phrases, cultural insights |
| Podcasts | Nあ～ Casual Nihongo | Real conversation, explanations, listening practice |
| YouTube | @kansaiben, @nihongonomori2013 | Lecture playlists |
| Tutors | Preply, private online tutors | Personalized lessons |
This selection of resources is suitable for learners of different levels, from beginners to advanced, and offers a comprehensive approach to mastering Kansai dialect through grammar, listening, conversation, and cultural context.