Here’s a dialogue between shoppers and a sales clerk at a souvenir shop, along with vocabulary definitions and examples:
Sales Clerk: Good morning! Welcome to our souvenir shop. How can I assist you today?
Shopper 1: Hi! We’re looking for some unique souvenirs to take back home. Do you have any recommendations?
Sales Clerk: Absolutely! We have a variety of items that are popular with tourists. Are you interested in something specific, like traditional crafts, local snacks, or perhaps some clothing?
Shopper 2: We’re interested in traditional crafts. What do you have?
Sales Clerk: We have a beautiful selection of handmade pottery, wooden carvings, and traditional fans. Let me show you some of our best pieces.
Shopper 1: That sounds great! Could you tell us more about these wooden carvings?
Sales Clerk: Of course! These wooden carvings are made by local artisans. Each piece is unique and represents different aspects of our culture. For example, this carving of a dragon symbolizes strength and good fortune.
Vocabulary:
- Artisan: A skilled craftsperson who makes things by hand. Example: The artisan spent hours crafting the intricate design on the vase.
- Symbolize: To represent or stand for something. Example: The dove symbolizes peace.
Shopper 2: They’re beautiful! How much do they cost?
Sales Clerk: The prices vary depending on the size and complexity of the carving. This small one is ¥3,000, while the larger, more detailed one is ¥8,000.
Shopper 1: I think we’ll take the small one. It’s perfect for our living room.
Sales Clerk: Excellent choice! Would you like it gift-wrapped?
Shopper 2: Yes, please. That would be wonderful.
Sales Clerk: No problem. I’ll wrap it up for you. Is there anything else you’re interested in?
Shopper 1: Actually, we’re also looking for some local snacks to bring back. Do you have any recommendations?
Sales Clerk: We have a variety of local snacks that are very popular. These include traditional rice crackers, sweet bean paste buns, and green tea-flavored sweets.
Vocabulary:
- Traditional: Something that is part of the customs or beliefs of a group of people. Example: Traditional Japanese tea ceremonies are a beautiful cultural experience.
- Flavor: The taste of a particular type of food or drink. Example: The green tea flavor is very refreshing.
Shopper 2: The green tea-flavored sweets sound interesting. Can we try a sample?
Sales Clerk: Certainly! Here you go. These sweets are made with high-quality matcha powder, giving them a rich and authentic flavor.
Shopper 1: Mmm, these are delicious! We’ll take a box of these as well.
Sales Clerk: Great choice! Is there anything else I can help you with?
Shopper 2: I think that’s all for now. Thank you so much for your help.
Sales Clerk: You’re welcome! I’ll just ring these up for you. Your total comes to ¥5,500. How would you like to pay?
Shopper 1: We’ll pay by credit card.
Sales Clerk: Perfect. Please insert your card here. (Shopper inserts card) Thank you. Here are your purchases, all wrapped up and ready to go. Have a wonderful day and enjoy the rest of your stay!
Shopper 2: Thank you! We will. Goodbye!
Sales Clerk: Goodbye! Come back anytime.
