<DIV><i>Maido, maido</i> and welcome to the Kansai region of western Japan. Whether visiting or living in this area, you will quickly notice the locals aren't speaking standard Japanese taught in textbooks and classrooms. The language on the streets is Kansai-ben: a dialect said to be earthier and more direct. With clear explanations of grammar, a Kansai-ben dictionary, and a helpful index, <i>Colloquial Kansai Japanese</i> is an indispensable guide to the rich speech of Kyoto, Osaka and Kobe.</div>