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Obunsha's New 11th Edition Classical Japanese Dictionary

Obunsha Co., Ltd., known for its educational publications, is excited to announce that reservations for the 11th edition of its Classical Japanese Dictionary will begin on August 27. This edition, premiering on October 22, marks an important milestone as it has been continuously supporting high school students for 65 years since its original release in 1960.

The new edition comes with several upgrades to address the specific challenges students face. Notably, it enhances explanations in areas where many high schoolers typically struggle. Furthermore, for those keen on technology, the dictionary will offer compatibility with the new Obunsha Dictionary App available for iOS and Android, which is expected to launch in spring 2026. This app will allow users to easily search classical Japanese terms anytime, anywhere.

Features of the 11th Edition

An Extensive Vocabulary

This latest edition boasts an impressive catalog of 43,500 entries, placing it at the forefront among similar references. It categorizes the headwords into three levels of importance and elaborates on each term through specialized sections, covering aspects such as meaning, nuance, basic definitions, and study aids. Rich examples demonstrate the practical applications of each word, ensuring clarity and understanding.

Comprehensive Appendices

To assist students comprehensively, the dictionary includes a robust 150-page appendix that covers essential topics such as grammar, waka and haiku, and fundamental knowledge of classical literature. Especially beneficial are detailed explanations of areas where students often trip up, including keigo (honorific language) explanations and interpretations of waka expressions. The supplementary features also include well-illustrated guides on the history of classical literature and expansive reference maps that enhance reading comprehension.

App Integration and Exclusive Content

Upon purchasing the book, readers will receive access to the app version as a special bonus (expected in spring 2026). This digital edition encompasses not just the book's content but also exclusive resources, featuring translations for 27,000 examples of significant classical sources, key particles, and auxiliary verbs. Additionally, it includes quick reference tables for particles and a guide to Hyakunin Isshu (a famous classical Japanese anthology).

Book Summary

• - Title: Obunsha's Classical Japanese Dictionary, 11th Edition
• - Authors: Kazunobu Ikeda, Shingo Yamamoto, Akihiro Yamaguchi, Toshimasa Wada
• - Price: ¥3,740 (tax included)
• - Publication Date: October 22, 2025
• - Format: B6 size, 1,584 pages, two-color printing with some colored pages
• - URL: Obunsha Product Page

Overview of the Obunsha Dictionary App

The Obunsha Dictionary App allows users to access various dictionaries from Obunsha on their smartphones. Each content package can be utilized on up to three devices, making it convenient for both home and classroom use. The app offers a trial feature that enables users to register their email for a one-month free access to all available dictionary content.

App Details

• - Developer/Operator: Obunsha Co., Ltd.
• - Last Updated: June 9, 2025
• - Price: Free to download (note: the app's dictionary version can be purchased separately)
• - Compatible Devices:

- iPhone/iPod touch: iOS 13.0 or later
- iPad: iPadOS 13.0 or later
- Android devices: Android OS 7.0 or later

Links to Download the App:

• - App Store
• - Google Play

With a mission to support lifelong learning, Obunsha continues to empower individuals to tackle personal and societal challenges through education. Its commitment to fostering a culture of learning is foundational to its identity and operations.

For more information about the company, visit:

• - Obunsha Website

Business Summary:

• - Founded: October 1, 1931
• - CEO: Hideki Kumezawa
• - Headquarters: 162-8680, 55 Yokotera-cho, Shinjuku, Tokyo, Japan
• - TEL: 03-3266-6400
• - Business Focus: Comprehensive publishing with a focus on education and information.