Last updated: December 14, 2025
Kyoto Dialect for Tourists: Easy Words You’ll Hear While Traveling
Visiting Kyoto is more than temples, tea ceremonies, and geisha culture — it is also about the language you hear every day. The Kyoto dialect, famous for its elegance and politeness, is one of the most unique ways of speaking Japanese. For tourists traveling in Kyoto, learning a few easy words and phrases can make your trip smoother and help you connect with locals. This guide introduces the most common expressions, explains their grammar, and shows how the Kyoto accent differs from other Japanese dialects.
Features of the Kyoto Dialect
The Kyoto dialect is often described as soft, elegant, and polite. One of its most distinctive features is the use of special verb endings and expressions that show respect. For example, the ending –dosu is similar to the standard Japanese -desu, but it sounds more refined and formal. Another common feature is -haru, which adds politeness to verbs. For example: suru (to do) becomes shiharu (he/she does), showing respect and softness in speech. These expressions reflect Kyoto’s cultural emphasis on courtesy, tradition, and the refined atmosphere of Japan’s ancient capital.
Common Kyoto Dialect Words and Phrases
～はる (haru)
Polite verb ending adding softness.
Example: Shiharimasu（しはります）— “(they) do” politely. Shows respect and warmth.
おおきに (Ōkini)
Thank you.
Commonly heard in shops and restaurants in Kyoto. Friendly and local way to express gratitude.
かんにんえ / かんにんな (Kannin’e / Kanninna)
Please forgive me / Sorry.
Used to apologize politely in Kyoto dialect. Softer than “gomen nasai.”
おこしやす / おいでやす (Okoshiyasu / Oideyasu)
Welcome.
Traditional Kyoto greeting for guests and customers. Creates a warm, hospitable atmosphere.
かまへん (Kamahen)
It’s okay / No problem.
Casual reassurance, similar to “daijōbu.” Often used in friendly conversation.
あかん (Akan)
Not good / No / Bad.
Example: “Sore wa akan” = “That’s not okay.” Common Kansai/Kyoto word for prohibition or disapproval.
🗣️ Sample Conversations in Kyoto Dialect
At a Restaurant
Japanese: おこしやす 何にしはりますか？
Romaji: Okoshiyasu, nani ni shiharimasu ka?
English: Welcome, what would you like to order?
Japanese: これをお願いします。
Romaji: Kore o onegaishimasu.
English: I’ll take this one, please.
At a Souvenir Shop
Japanese: これをください。
Romaji: Kore o kudasai.
English: I’d like this one, please.
Japanese: おおきに。
Romaji: Ōkini.
English: Thank you.
✨ Tips for Tourists: How to Understand Kyoto Dialect
Listen for Politeness
Kyoto speech is known for its soft and elegant tone. Endings like -haru and -dosu often appear in polite situations. Recognizing these forms helps you appreciate the refined atmosphere of the city.
Recognize Common Expressions
- Ōkini (おおきに) = Thank you
- Kamahen (かまへん) = It’s okay / No problem
- Oideyasu / Okoshiyasu (おいでやす / おこしやす) = Welcome
Understanding these everyday words makes it easier to follow conversations and grasp the nuance behind what locals say.
Observe in Shops and Restaurants
When staff greet you with “Okoshiyasu” or “Oideyasu”, they are warmly welcoming you. Hearing “Ōkini” after a purchase simply means “thank you.” Even if you don’t reply in dialect, knowing the meaning enriches the interaction.
Don’t Worry About Speaking
Tourists don’t need to actively use Kyoto dialect themselves. The key is being able to listen and understand. This alone deepens your travel experience and helps you connect with the local culture.
Enjoy the Atmosphere
Kyoto dialect is part of the city’s cultural identity. By paying attention to the words and expressions around you, you’ll feel the warmth, tradition, and elegance that make Kyoto unique.
🏮 Conclusion
Exploring Kyoto is not only about temples, tea ceremonies, and traditional culture—it is also about the language you hear every day. The Kyoto dialect, with its elegance and politeness, reflects the city’s refined spirit and hospitality.
For tourists, the real value lies not in speaking the dialect perfectly, but in understanding it. Recognizing expressions like Ōkini (thank you), Kamahen (it’s okay), and Oideyasu / Okoshiyasu (welcome) allows you to connect more deeply with the people and atmosphere around you.
By listening carefully and appreciating these local words, you gain insight into Kyoto’s warmth and traditions. Even a small awareness of the dialect can transform your travel experience, making your journey through Japan’s ancient capital more memorable and meaningful.
Quick Summary
Discover Kyoto’s charm through its dialect. From polite phrases like Ōkini (thank you) to welcoming expressions such as Oideyasu and Okoshiyasu, understanding these words helps travelers connect with the city’s culture. Even without speaking Kyoto dialect, recognizing its elegance and warmth enriches your journey through Japan’s ancient capital.