Just as in Brazil we have the caipira, baiano, nordestino dialects and many others. Japan has numerous regional dialects. These dialects are sometimes difficult to understand even for the Japanese themselves.
Japan has 47 provinces (states), and has a mountainous nature, and throughout Japan’s history, its people lived divided, with various regions warring against each other. Thus, the Japanese language developed in parallel in various parts of the country.
The dialects differ from each other by accent, verb and adjective formation, the use of particles, vocabulary, and in some cases pronunciation. Some also differ in consonants and vowels, although this is uncommon.
One of the biggest factors for the difference in the way of speaking is geography. In more isolated places like islands, distant regions, or hard-to-reach areas, for a long time the presence of people and information from other parts was limited.
Below we have a map with the names of most of the dialects found in Japan, it is worth remembering that in some small cities and islands, these dialects can also be a little different.
Table of Contents
Classification of Japanese Dialects
Eastern Dialects (Higashi Nihongo)
The eastern dialects are found in the regions of Kantō, Tōhoku, and Hokkaido. They share some common phonetic and grammatical characteristics, although there are also variations within the group.
Tōhoku-ben: This is the most distinct dialect within the group. It is known for its descending intonation, pronunciation of vowels and consonants, and variations in verb conjugations. Additionally, the vocabulary can be quite different from standard Japanese.
Kantō-ben: The dialect of the Kantō region, where Tokyo is located, is closer to standard Japanese. However, it still presents some differences in intonation and consonant pronunciation.
Western Dialects (Nishi Nihongo)
The western dialects are found in the regions of Chūgoku, Shikoku, and Kyushu. They are characterized by variations in consonant and vowel pronunciation, verb conjugations, and word formation.
Chūgoku-ben: This dialect is spoken in the Chūgoku region and presents differences in verb conjugations and word formation compared to standard Japanese.
Shikoku-ben: The dialect of Shikoku island has its own characteristics, such as variations in intonation and the use of grammatical particles.
Kyushu-ben: Spoken on Kyushu island, this dialect has a distinct pronunciation of consonants and vowels and differences in verb conjugation.
Hakata-ben – Dialect spoken in the city of Fukuoka, which was previously known as Hakata, located on Kyushu island.
We recommend reading: The Fukuoka Dialect – Hakata Ben
Central Eastern Dialects (Chūbu Nihongo)
The Central Eastern dialects are found in the Chūbu region, covering provinces such as Nagano, Niigata, and Gifu. The main characteristics include:
Distinct intonation: The Central Eastern dialects have a different intonation from standard Japanese.
Variations in the use of grammatical particles: Speakers of these dialects may use grammatical particles differently than those found in standard Japanese.
Central Western Dialects (Kansai Nihongo)
The Central Western dialects are spoken in the Kansai region, including cities like Ōsaka, Kyōto, and Nara. Some notable characteristics are:
- Melodic intonation: The Kansai dialects have a melodic intonation, making them more pleasant and expressive for some listeners.
- Differences in verb conjugations and word formation: The Kansai dialects present variations in verb conjugations and word formation compared to standard Japanese.
- Use of grammatical particles: Speakers of these dialects may use different grammatical particles, such as replacing the particle “ね” with “や” or “な” in Kansai-ben.
Here are some examples of the Central Western dialects:
Kansai-ben (Osaka-ben): It is one of the most well-known and loved dialects in Japan. Speakers of Kansai-ben are often associated with a sense of humor and friendliness. Some common words and expressions include “おおきに” (ookini), which means “thank you,” and “なんでやねん” (nandeyanen), an expression of surprise or indignation.
Kyoto-ben: The dialect of Kyoto is considered elegant and refined, with a soft intonation. Some typical words and expressions include “おあずけ” (oazuke), which means “please wait a moment,” and “はんなり” (hannari), an adjective that describes something graceful and elegant.
Nara-ben: The dialect of Nara shares characteristics with other Kansai dialects but also has its own peculiarities. For example, “ありがとう” (arigatou), which means “thank you” in standard Japanese, is often pronounced as “ありがとん” (arigaton) in Nara-ben.
We recommend reading: The dialect of Kyoto and Osaka – Kansai-ben
Another Division of Japanese Dialects
Below we will present another type of geographical classification of Japanese dialects:
- Kyūshū:
- Satsugū
- Hichiku
- Hōnichi
- Western:
- Chūgoku
- Umpaku
- Shikoku
- Kansai
- Hokuriku
- Oriental:
- Tōkai-Tosan
- Kantō
- Interior of Hokkaidō
- Tōhoku
- Coastal Hokkaidō
- Hachijo (Hachijo islands)
Notable Japanese Dialects and Their Characteristics
Let’s explain some more information about the main Japanese dialects:
Kansai-ben
Kansai-ben, spoken in the Kansai region, is one of the most well-known dialects in Japan. Its melodic intonation and distinctive pronunciation contribute to the stereotype that its speakers are friendly and expressive.
Tōhoku-ben
Spoken in the Tōhoku region, this dialect is known for its descending intonation and pronunciation of vowels and consonants. An example of a vocabulary difference is the word “おもろい,” which means “interesting” in Tōhoku-ben, in contrast to “おもしろい” in standard Japanese.
Okinawa Dialect
The Okinawa dialect is considered a separate language by some linguists due to its significant differences from standard Japanese. Okinawa has a unique history as the Ryukyu Kingdom before becoming part of Japan, which contributed to the development of a distinct dialect and culture.
Tsugaru-ben and Yamanote
The Tsugaru-ben dialect, spoken in Aomori Prefecture, is known for being difficult to understand even for native Japanese speakers from other regions. This is due to its unique pronunciations and intonations and the use of vocabulary and grammar that diverge significantly from standard Japanese.
The Yamanote dialect, a variant of the Kanto dialect, was spoken by samurai and the upper class during the Edo period (1603-1868). This dialect influenced the development of modern standard Japanese.
The Importance of Dialects in Japan
The Japanese language is rich in regional dialects, reflecting the cultural and historical diversity of the different regions of Japan. Each dialect has unique and distinct characteristics, such as pronunciations, vocabulary, and grammar, which are deeply influenced by geography, history, and local culture. This linguistic diversity plays an important role in shaping regional identity and Japan’s cultural heritage.
Effect on Japanese Culture
Japanese dialects have also influenced popular culture, including humor and music. Many famous comedians in Japan come from the Kansai region and incorporate the Kansai-ben dialect into their performances. Additionally, traditional and modern songs in regional dialects are also popular throughout the country.
The Japanese government and cultural organizations have worked to preserve and promote regional dialects, recognizing their importance to identity and cultural heritage. This includes documenting endangered dialects and promoting the teaching and use of dialects in local communities.
Some words and expressions from regional dialects have become popular throughout Japan and have been incorporated into standard Japanese, such as “めんどくさい” (mendokusai), which means “annoying” or “problematic,” originating from the Kansai dialect.
The Future of Japanese Dialects [方言] hōgen
In modern Japan, standard Japanese (標準語, Hyōjungo) is widely used in education, media, and communication between different regions of the country.
However, regional dialects still play a crucial role in the daily lives of many Japanese, especially in rural areas and older communities. These dialects are valued as part of local cultural identity and tradition.
Additionally, Japanese dialects have influenced and enriched the country’s popular culture, including music, literature, and humor. Many artists, writers, and comedians incorporate regional dialects into their works, expressing the richness and diversity of the Japanese language.
Challenges and Preservation Efforts
With the growing globalization and the predominance of standard Japanese, many regional dialects face the risk of disappearing, especially those spoken by small and isolated communities. To preserve these dialects and their cultural heritage, various initiatives have been implemented in Japan.
Governmental and cultural organizations work to document and promote endangered dialects, conducting linguistic research and providing educational resources. Additionally, festivals and cultural events that celebrate regional dialects and their traditions are also organized in various parts of the country.
Videos of Japanese Dialects
With the videos below you can learn about Japanese dialects and notice their differences.
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