Kyoto

1. Essential Japanese Phrases for Kyoto

Here are some basic Japanese phrases that will be particularly useful during your stay in Kyoto. Kyoto residents are known for their politeness and indirect communication style, so using polite language is highly appreciated.

Greetings and Politeness

• Hello/Good day: こんにちは (Konnichiwa)
• Good morning: おはようございます (Ohayou gozaimasu) – Polite
• Good evening: こんばんは (Konbanwa)
• Thank you: ありがとうございます (Arigatou gozaimasu) – Polite
• Excuse me/Sorry: すみません (Sumimasen)
• Please: お願いします (Onegaishimasu)
• Goodbye: さようなら (Sayounara) – Formal, or またね (Mata ne) – Informal

Getting Around

• Where is [place]?: [Place] はどこですか？ ([Place] wa doko desu ka?)
  • Example: トイレはどこですか？ (Toire wa doko desu ka?) – Where is the restroom?
• How much is this?: これはいくらですか？ (Kore wa ikura desu ka?)
• I don’t understand Japanese: 日本語がわかりません (Nihongo ga wakarimasen)
• Do you speak English?: 英語を話せますか？ (Eigo o hanasemasu ka?)

Dining

• I would like this, please: これをください (Kore o kudasai)
• Do you have vegetarian options?: ベジタリアンの料理はありますか？ (Bejitarian no ryouri wa arimasu ka?)
• Check, please: お会計をお願いします (Okaikei o onegaishimasu)

Shopping

• Can I try this on?: 試着してもいいですか？ (Shichaku shite mo ii desu ka?)
• Do you have this in a different size?: 違うサイズはありますか？ (Chigau saizu wa arimasu ka?)

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2. Kyoto Dialect (Kyoto-ben)

Kyoto has its own regional dialect, known as Kyoto-ben. While standard Japanese (標準語, Hyoujungo) is widely understood, you may encounter Kyoto-ben in casual conversations, especially among older residents or in traditional settings. Kyoto-ben is known for its soft, polite, and refined tone, reflecting the city’s cultural heritage.

Examples of Kyoto-ben

• Thank you: おおきに (Ookini) – Commonly used in Kyoto instead of ありがとう (Arigatou).
• Very/Extremely: えらい (Erai) – Used in Kyoto to mean "very" or "extremely," unlike its standard meaning of "great" or "admirable."
• How are you?: どないどす？ (Donai dosu?) – Kyoto-ben for どうですか？ (Dou desu ka?).

While you don’t need to master Kyoto-ben, recognizing these phrases can help you better understand locals and show your appreciation for their culture.

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3. Cultural Concerns Related to Language Usage

Kyoto residents are known for their indirect and subtle communication style. Here are some cultural tips to keep in mind when using Japanese in Kyoto:

• Politeness is Key: Always use polite forms of speech (e.g., adding です/ます endings) when speaking to strangers, shopkeepers, or service staff.
• Non-Verbal Communication: Bowing is an important part of Japanese etiquette. A slight bow when saying "thank you" or "excuse me" is appreciated.
• Indirectness: Kyoto locals often avoid direct refusals. For example, instead of saying "no," they might say "ちょっと…" (Chotto…), which implies hesitation or difficulty.
• Volume: Speak softly in public spaces, as loud voices are considered impolite.

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4. Affordable Language Classes and Materials in Kyoto

If you’re planning to stay in Kyoto for an extended period, taking a language class or using local resources can be a great way to improve your Japanese.

Language Schools in Kyoto

1. Kyoto International Community House (Kokoka)

   • Details: Offers affordable Japanese language classes for foreigners, taught by volunteers.
   • Cost: Around ¥1,000–¥3,000 per term (varies by class).
   • Location: 2-1 Torii-cho, Awataguchi, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto.
   • Website: Kokoka
   • Notes: Classes are beginner-friendly and focus on practical communication.

2. Kyoto YMCA Japanese Language School

   • Details: Offers structured courses for all levels, including short-term and intensive programs.
   • Cost: ¥10,000–¥30,000 per month, depending on the course.
   • Location: 52 Nishi Notoin Dori, Shijo-sagaru, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto.
   • Website: Kyoto YMCA

3. Kyoto Japanese Language School (KJLS)

   • Details: Offers beginner to advanced courses, with a focus on conversational skills.
   • Cost: ¥20,000–¥50,000 per month, depending on the program.
   • Location: 1-7 Nishinokyo, Kyoto.
   • Website: KJLS

Free or Low-Cost Language Exchange Opportunities

• Kokoka Language Exchange Program: Kokoka also hosts free language exchange meetups where you can practice Japanese with locals while teaching them your native language.
• Meetup Groups: Check platforms like Meetup.com for Kyoto-based language exchange groups. Many are free or require only a small fee for venue costs.

Self-Study Materials

• Books:
  • "Genki I: An Integrated Course in Elementary Japanese" (Approx. ¥3,500–¥4,000)
  • "Japanese for Busy People" (Approx. ¥2,500–¥3,000)
• Apps:
  • Duolingo (Free with optional paid features)
  • Anki (Free for desktop, ¥3,000 for iOS)
  • LingoDeer (Subscription-based, around ¥1,000/month)
• Local Bookstores:
  • Maruzen Kyoto: A large bookstore with a good selection of Japanese language learning materials.
  • Junkudo Kyoto: Another excellent bookstore for language resources.

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5. Practical Tips for Language Learning in Kyoto

• Immerse Yourself: Practice speaking Japanese daily, even if it’s just ordering food or asking for directions.
• Visit Local Markets: Places like Nishiki Market are great for practicing conversational Japanese with vendors.
• Engage with Locals: Kyoto residents are generally patient and appreciative of foreigners making an effort to speak Japanese.
• Cultural Events: Participate in tea ceremonies, calligraphy workshops, or other cultural activities where you can practice Japanese in a traditional setting.

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By learning these basics and taking advantage of Kyoto’s language resources, you’ll not only navigate the city more easily but also gain a deeper appreciation for its culture and people. Enjoy your stay in Kyoto!