Kyoto dialect

"Hannari"

　In Kyoto, there is a word called "hannari," which I believe is a famous Kyoto dialect that is somewhat understood nationwide, perhaps second only to "Would you like some bubuzuke?" The meaning is a super versatile compliment, like "elegant, lovely, and also a bit alluring." In terms of feeling, the roundness of each hiragana character in "hannari" and the atmosphere when you speak it, consciously using a somewhat beautiful voice, perfectly capture the meaning of this word (do you understand?).

　Geiko and maiko are often described with this word. Kyoto is a place that has its own unique words to express beauty. See? You can't beat that.

Geiko and Maiko's Kyoto Dialect

　Why are geiko and maiko "hannari"? I think there are several reasons, but one of the major reasons that makes geiko and maiko who they are, that makes them "hannari," is probably the Kyoto dialect of the hanamachi, "Kyo-kotoba." I bet many customers are drawn to this language and visit for it. One of the reasons I wanted to become a maiko was to master this language with its indescribable charm.

The Start of Maiko Training

　When maiko training begins, the first thing they are taught is this "Kyo-kotoba." Starting with "ookini" (thank you), "sunmahen" (excuse me), and "otanoumoshimasu" (please), even Edo-raised city kids and Satsuma ogojo (women from Satsuma) become quite native speakers before they know it. And when the language changes, the personality changes too. They gradually become softer, and more gentle words come out of their mouths. I think it's probably not designed for fast-paced conversation. You become more relaxed, and a kind of charm seems to spontaneously emerge.

　So, even now, if something I don't like happens, I have an internal monologue in Kyo-kotoba. "Uchi kore shitehen yanna? Sou yanna~?" (I didn't do this, right? Right~?) And before I know it, everything seems to be okay. Highly recommended.