Shows
Japan Station: Deep Dives into Japanese Culture, Language & SocietyOverlooked Train Gems in Tokyo & BeyondOn this episode of Japan Station, we're talking about interesting trains and train stations in Tokyo and beyond with Adam from the AdamU YouTube channel. 👉Topics Discussed The origin of AdamU's passion for trains About Oigawa Railway Oigawa Railway's recent price increase How rual railways are closing down About the Tokyo Adventure Line and exploring Okutama About Takanawa Gateway The history of the Takanawa Embankment About the new Suica mascot candidates/contest About the Hi no Tori train that connects Nagoya and Osaka About luxury trains in Japan And much more 👉Subscribe to the Podcast! A...
2026-10-1449 min
Japan Station: Deep Dives into Japanese Culture, Language & SocietyJapan's (linguistic) harassment problem explainedOn this episode of Japan Station, we're talking about the ridiculous amount of terms for different types of "harassment" in Japanese. 👉Topics Discussed We go over some well known and some very obscure "hara" (ハラ) words What is sekuhara セクハラ What is pawahara パワハラ What is morahara モラハラ What is harahara ハラハラ What is manehara マネハラ Why calling everything "harassment" can be problematic And much more! 👉Subscribe to the Podcast! Apple Podcasts: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/japan-station-a-podcast-by-japankyo-com/id1440454968 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6lDoFFt4M0HyyKaVeDyKkB 👉Support on Patreon & Ko-fi Support for as little as $1 a month to get early acc...
2026-10-0641 min
Japan Station: Deep Dives into Japanese Culture, Language & SocietyEXTREME walkers in Japan have a new name?!On this episode of Japan Station, we're talking about the emergence of a new slang term used to describe people who walk abnormally long distances/long amounts of time. 👉Topics Discussed What does Inō Tadataka kaiwai mean? (伊能忠敬界隈) Who Inō Tadataka 伊能忠敬界隈 was The origin of Inō Tadataka Kaiwai About the "kaiwai" term trend And much more 👉Subscribe to the Podcast! Apple Podcasts: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/japan-station-a-podcast-by-japankyo-com/id1440454968 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6lDoFFt4M0HyyKaVeDyKkB 👉Support on Patreon & Ko-fi Support for as little as $1 a month to get early access to...
2026-09-2425 min
Japan Station: Deep Dives into Japanese Culture, Language & SocietyDEAD Keitai Slang Only OLD People Remember EXPLAINEDOn this episode of Japan Station, we're talking about dead slang from the heyday of Japanese cell pnones (ケータイ, kētai). 👉Topics Discussed About the evolution of Japanese cell phones Wha tis a shame 写メ What is dekome デコメ The origins of shame About decorating Japanese cell phones keitai The connection between gyaru and Japanese cell phones About "straps" sutorappu What keitai is written in katakana And much more 👉Subscribe to the Podcast! Apple Podcasts: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/japan-station-a-podcast-by-japankyo-com/id1440454968 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6lDoFFt4M0HyyKaVeDyKkB 👉Support on Patreon & Ko...
2026-09-0752 min
Japan Station: Deep Dives into Japanese Culture, Language & SocietyEven Japanese Forget This Prefecture (But You Shouldn't!)On this episode of Japan Station, we're talking about life in Shimane Prefecture. 👉Topics Discussed About the unique cultural quirks of life in Shimane Prefecture Where Shimane is located How people often get Tottori and Shimane confused A funny example of a dialect from Shimane Prefecture About food in Shimane Prefecture What is wariko soba? About Izumo Time What is shijimi? Abut the famous story of The White Hare of Inaba How wani are actually sharks and not crocodile in the Kojiki And much more 👉Subscribe to the Podcast! Apple Podcasts...
2026-09-0151 min
Japan Station: Deep Dives into Japanese Culture, Language & SocietyHe Cycled the Length of Japan! Here's What HappenedOn this episode of Japan Station, we're talking about what it's like to cycle the entire length of Japan with journalist Oscar Boyd. 👉Topics Discussed Why Japan is so great for cycling About transporting a bike from the UK to Japan About biking from Kagoshima to the northernmostpoint of Japan over the course of 28 days Why Oscar decided to start his cycling trip from Mount Kaimon in Kagoshima About the route Oscar took when cycling the length of Japan Why Oscar decided to avoid the Tokaido corridor About visiting Mount Koya About cycling through Shikoku About the...
2026-08-2449 min
Japan Station: Deep Dives into Japanese Culture, Language & SocietyHow to insult Japan's BRAIN ROT generation (ドパガキ)On this episode of Japan Station, we're talking about the recently created Japanese word dopagaki (ドパガキ). What does it mean and what are its origins? Listen to find out! 👉Topics Discussed The meaning and origin of dopagaki What does dopajita (ドパ舌) mean? What does doparu mean? What does zonbisukurōru (ゾンビスクロール) mean? And much more 👉Subscribe to the Podcast! Apple Podcasts: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/japan-station-a-podcast-by-japankyo-com/id1440454968 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6lDoFFt4M0HyyKaVeDyKkB 👉Support on Patreon & Ko-fi Support for as little as $1 a month to get early access to episodes, ad free version...
2026-08-1427 min
Japan Station: Deep Dives into Japanese Culture, Language & SocietyThese English words CAN'T be translated into JapaneseOn this episode of Japan Station, we're talking about English words that are tricky to translate into Japanese. 👉Topics Discussed English words that are surprisingly difficult to translate into Japanese How to say jaywalking in Japanese How to say zesty in Japanese How to say touch grass in Japanese And much more 👉Subscribe to the Podcast! Apple Podcasts: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/japan-station-a-podcast-by-japankyo-com/id1440454968 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6lDoFFt4M0HyyKaVeDyKkB 👉Support on Patreon & Ko-fi Support for as little as $1 a month to get ea...
2026-08-0749 min
Japan Station: Deep Dives into Japanese Culture, Language & SocietyThe Kumamoto earthquake is HEARTBREAKING! How to helpOn this episode of Japan Station, I talk about the 2926 Kumamoto earthquake and how you can help. 👉Topics Discussed The effects of the Reiwa Year 8 Kumamoto earthquake How to help and where you can donate And much more! 👉Subscribe to the Podcast! Apple Podcasts: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/japan-station-a-podcast-by-japankyo-com/id1440454968 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6lDoFFt4M0HyyKaVeDyKkB 👉Support on Patreon & Ko-fi Support for as little as $1 a month to get early access to episodes, ad free versions and occassional bonus content Support on Patreo...
2026-08-0120 min
Japan Station: Deep Dives into Japanese Culture, Language & SocietyCrazy ways to survive Japan's BRUTAL summer heatOn this episode of Japan Station, we talk about some of the more creative ways people in Japan are battling the intense summer heat. 👉Topics Discussed What is kokushōbi (酷暑日) How kokushōbi was decided via a survey About the Dohiemon Box/Human Refrigerator About Mandom's "Sweat Management" seminars About ice cream holders About the parasol curtain from Three Coins that makes you look like a Heian Period princess About Sofy Cool, the minty fresh cooling sanitary napkins that went viral The controversy behind men wearing shorts in the workplace in Japan The electric uchiwa fan...
2026-08-0143 min
Japan Station: Deep Dives into Japanese Culture, Language & SocietyWhy life in Miyagi is DIFFERENT!On this episode of Japan Station, we talk about the unique cultural and geographic quirks of life in Miyagi Prefecture. 👉Topics Discussed Where Miyagi Prefecture is located The population of Miyagi Prefecture Miyagi's mild weather What izui means What is gyūtan (牛タン) About Sada Keishiro and the origins of gyūtan (beef tongue) How most people in Sendai rarely if ever eat gyūtan What is zundamochi? About Kessennuma and its fishing industry About shark meat in Kessennuma About Sendai's links to JoJo's Bizarre Adventure, Jujutsu Kaisen and other anime/manga About Ishinomori Shotaro's various museums...
2026-07-0753 min
Japan Station: Deep Dives into Japanese Culture, Language & SocietyWhat the hell is JUNE sickness? (rokugatsubyō, 六月病) | Japan Station 217On this episode of Japan Station, we talk about "May sickness" and "June sickness." What are these sicknesses? Are they real? Should you be concerned? ðŸ'‰Topics Discussed What is gogatsubyÅ (äº"津病) What is rokugatsubyÅ (å…月病) The origin of "May sickness" Why April-June has a reputation for being a stressful time of year in Japan Why June sickness is stupid Why June is thought to be a particularly stressful time of year in Japan And much more! ðŸ'‰Subscribe to the Podcast! Apple Podcasts: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/japan-station-a-podcast-by-japankyo-com/id1440454968 Spotify: https://open.spotify.co...
2026-07-0120 min
Japan Station: Deep Dives into Japanese Culture, Language & SocietyWho started the Japanese soccer fan trash clean up custom?On this episode of Japan Station, we talk about the origins of the famous custom of Japanese World Cup soccer/football fans cleaning stadiums after a match is over. Where did this custom originate? Who started it? Why do they use blue garbage bags? We talk about all that and more! 👉Topics Discussed The history of the Japanese soccer/football fan cleaning up trash custom Why Korean soccer fans may be the origin of the Japanese soccer fan stadium clean up custom How Tanabe Seiyaku fans clean up trash after their team lost the Emperor's Cup on...
2026-06-2419 min
Japan Station: Deep Dives into Japanese Culture, Language & SocietyFood you GOTTA try in Fukushima!On this episode of Japan Station, we're talking about food you have to eat the next time you visit Fukushima. 👉Topics Discussed About the Grand Van Gogh Exhibit About the Pokemon Astronomical Observatory About Koriyama Black Ramen What a "cream box" is What is Fukushima Buruburu The history of Fukushima Buruburu And much more! 👉Subscribe to the Podcast! Apple Podcasts: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/japan-station-a-podcast-by-japankyo-com/id1440454968 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6lDoFFt4M0HyyKaVeDyKkB 👉Support on Patreon & Ko-fi Support for as little as $1 a month t...
2026-06-0735 min
Japan Station: Deep Dives into Japanese Culture, Language & SocietyWhy life in Fukushima is DIFFERENT!On this episode of Japan Station, we're talking about Fukushima Prefecture! We're focusing on the geography, cultural quirks, language and food. 👉Topics Discussed About the geography of Fukushima Prefecture Where Fukushima is located About the three regions of Fukushima: Aizu, Nakadōri, Hamadōri About the stereotypes of the people of the three regions of Fukushima What is Mamadōru About the Fukushima dialect The culture of eating ramen for breakfast (asarā) About Kitakata ramen About Shirakawa ramen And much more! 👉Subscribe to the Podcast! Apple Podcasts: https://itunes.apple.com/us/pod...
2026-06-0135 min
Japan Station: Deep Dives into Japanese Culture, Language & SocietyTokyo is FED UP with tourists dumping their trashOn this episode of Japan Station, we're talking about how there's been an increase in the number of tourists from overseas who are dumping their suitcases in the Ikebukuro area of Tokyo. We also talk about what you can do if you need to dispose of your suitcase when visiting Japan. 👉Topics Discussed Foreign tourists are dumping their suitcases illegally in the Ikebukuro area of Tokyo Japan's complicated trash system How Toshima Ward's oversized trash collection system wdoes not serve foreign tourists What you should do if you need to throw away you...
2026-05-1719 min
Japan Station: Deep Dives into Japanese Culture, Language & SocietyWhy life in Iwate is DIFFERENT! | Japan Station 207On this episode of Japan Station, we're talking about Iwate Prefecture! We're focusing on the geography, general stats, language and food. 👉Topics Discussed Where Iwate Prefecture is About Iwate Prefecture's large size and sparse population About the weather of Iwate Prefecture About the dialects of Iwate Prefecture About Fukuda Pan/Fukuda Bread, it's history and its many varieties About wanko soba About the supposed origins of wanko soba About Morioka's three famous noodles About jajamen About the other meaning of soba About Morioka reimen How reimen in Iwate is different The popularity of reimen Abou...
2026-05-0139 min
Japan Station: Deep Dives into Japanese Culture, Language & SocietyThe ORIGINS of "scammy" SAKURA | Japan Station 203On this episode of Japan Station, we're talking about the origins of the word sakura. No not that sakurai. The other sakura. The scammy kind of sakura. Also we're talking about madorā. 👉Topics Discussed The possible origins of the word sakura (サクラ) Why sakura means a fake "scammy" customer What a madorā is And much more! 👉Subscribe to the Podcast! Apple Podcasts: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/japan-station-a-podcast-by-japankyo-com/id1440454968 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6lDoFFt4M0HyyKaVeDyKkB 👉Support on Patreon & Ko-fi Support for a...
2026-04-0711 min
Japan Station: Deep Dives into Japanese Culture, Language & SocietyWhy breakfast deals in Japan are CRAZY now | Japan Station 202On this episode of Japan Station, we're talking about the rise of Japan's $3.5 billion breakfast industry and why Japan is currently in the midst of it's 4th "breakfast boom." 👉Topics Discussed What a typical Japanese breakfast consists of The history of breakfast in Japan Breakfast in the Edo Period Breakfast in Edo vs Kansai during the Edo Period Japan's four "Morning Booms" What 'morning" (モーニング, mōningu) is The origin of "morning" in Aichi Prefecture The rise of kissaten (cafes) in 1950s Japan About Rūe Burajiru (ルーエぶらじる), a restaurant in Hiroshima thought to have been the first to offer "morning service" (モ...
2026-04-011h 03
Japan Station: Deep Dives into Japanese Culture, Language & SocietyAkihabara is DYING? How Ikebukuro Became Japan's New Otaku Capital | Japan Station 201On this episode of Japan Station, we're joined by Dr. Patrick W. Galbraith to talk about the current status of Akihabara and the rise of Ikebukuro as Japan's newest capital of all things anime, manga and otaku culture. 👉Topics Discussed Whether Akihabara is dying The history of Akihabara How Akihabara has evolved in recent years What locals think of Akihabara today How Mercari has impacted Akihabara The price of anime figures/merch in Akihabara The decline of AKB48 Why Akihabara has changed in recent years The rise of Ikebukuro as Japan's new otaku capital How the Tos...
2026-03-2159 minJapan Station: Deep Dives into Japanese Culture, Language & SocietyWhat is a shijūkata? (Age related Japanese words) | Japan Station 199On this episode of Japan Station, we're talking about interesting words related to aging and shoulders and a weird ECC commercial. 👉Topics Discussed 四十肩ō And much more! 👉Subscribe to the Podcast! Apple Podcasts: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/japan-station-a-podcast-by-japankyo-com/id1440454968 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6lDoFFt4M0HyyKaVeDyKkB 👉Support on Patreon & Ko-fi Support for as little as $1 a month to get early access to episodes, ad free versions and occassional bonus content Support on Patreon https://patreon.com/japankyo Support via a one time donation! Ko-fi: https://www.ko-fi.com/japankyo Venmo: https://venmo.com/tonyrvega Paypal...
2026-03-0712 minJapan Station: Deep Dives into Japanese Culture, Language & SocietyWhy you should visit YAMAGATA! | Japan Station 197On this episode of Japan Station, Alex Litz of Expedition Japan joins us to talk about tourism in Japan, Yamagata Prefecture and places/events to check out during a visit to Yamagata. 👉Topics Discussed How Alex ended up in Yamagata Prefecture About studying abroad in Yamagata Prefecture About tourism in Japan What's so great about Yamagata? Places to visit in Yamagata Yamagata food Events and festivals in Yamagata The dialects of Yamagata Getting around in Yamagata And much more! 👉Subscribe to the Podcast! Apple Podcasts: https://itunes.apple.com/us/pod...
2026-02-2158 minJapan Station: Deep Dives into Japanese Culture, Language & SocietyWhat the hell does "depakosu" mean? | Japan Station 195On this episode of Japan Station, I talk about two peculiar words depakosu and puchipura. Also i talk a bit about the origin of the name of the anime Odd Taxi. 👉Topics Discussed What depakosu (デパコス) means What puchipura (プチプラ) means The origin of the name of the anime Odd Taxi (オッドタクシー) And much more! 👉Subscribe to the Podcast! Apple Podcasts: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/japan-station-a-podcast-by-japankyo-com/id1440454968 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6lDoFFt4M0HyyKaVeDyKkB 👉Support on Patreon & Ko-fi Support for as little as $1 a month to get early access to episodes, ad free versi...
2026-02-0716 minJapan Station: Deep Dives into Japanese Culture, Language & SocietyWhy life in Aomori is so DIFFERENT | Japan Station 194On this episode of Japan Station, we talk about some of the unique aspects of living in Aomori Prefecture. 👉Topics Discussed What it's like living in Aomori Prefecture About the Shimokita Peninsula Why life in Aomori can be so inconvenient What "English Toast" is (igirisu tōsuto, イギリストースト) What igirisu tōsuto is About the history of igirisu tōsuto Why people in Aomori throw peanuts at oni on Setsubun instead of soybeans The dialects of Aomori How Aomori became one of Japan's biggest centers for apple production About senbeijiru (rice cracker soup) And much more! 👉Subscribe...
2026-02-011h 03Japan Station: Deep Dives into Japanese Culture, Language & SocietyThe CRAZIEST Taishō era slang EXPLAINED! | Japan Station 193On this episode of Japan Station, we go through a list of some of the most unique and interesting slang of Japan's Taishō period (1912-1926). 👉Topics Discussed Popular Taishō era slang How polie during the Taishō era used to say moshi moshi Why it was an insult to call someone Mitsukoshi during the Taishō era What it was like during the Taishō era Taishō era youth culture What a gomu geta was What musen meant during the Taishō era Taishō era opera otaku What SS meant during the Taishō period The sexy meaning of tōchaku (到着) And...
2026-01-211h 04Japan Station: Deep Dives into Japanese Culture, Language & Society10 Reasons You'll Hate Living in Japan. Really? | Japan Station 192On this episode of Ichimon Japan we ask: 10 Reasons You'll Hate Living in Japan. Really? Topics Discussed Reasons why you may hate living in Japan No trash cans Why there are few public trash cans in Japan Where to find trash cans in Japan Whether it's rude to walk while eating or drinking in public in Japan Lack of soap in public restrooms Individually wrapped items About not being able to have tattoos in Japan Working conditions in Japan About salaries in Japan About the weird way Japan slices loaves of bread (shokupan) About the annoying nature of...
2026-01-141h 14Japan Station: Deep Dives into Japanese Culture, Language & SocietyWhat you should know about KUMAMON (+ my CRAZY Kumamon story) | Japan Station 188On this episode of Japan Station, we talk all about Jaan's most famous "local mascot" Kumamon. We cover everything you should know about Kumamoto's most beloved bear. I also share an absolutely crazy story that happened to me when I went to see the Kumamon show in Kumamoto in the fall os 2025. 👉Topics Discussed About Kumamon How Kumamon was created The history of Kumamon Who created Kumamon How Kumamon used to look quite different when he was first unveiled How Kumamon's appearance changed About Kumamon's creepy appearance About the Osaka press conference that introduced Kumamon to the...
2025-12-201h 04Japan Station: Deep Dives into Japanese Culture, Language & SocietyHanakin: What does it mean? (Dead Japanese Slang) | Japan Station 186On this episode of Japan Station, I dig into the world of dead Japanese Bubble Era slang. Specifically, I talk about the term hanakin (花金). Also I talk about the days of the week during World War II in Japan. 👉Topics Discussed What is hanakin What hanakin means About the kanji used to write hanakin How I learned the days of the week in Japanese How there were no weekends during World War II in Japan And much more! 👉Subscribe to the Podcast! Apple Podcasts: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/japan-station-a...
2025-12-0217 minJapan Station: Deep Dives into Japanese Culture, Language & SocietyI walked across KYUSHU! Here's what happened (Kyushu Challenge Wrap Up) | Japan Station 184On this episode of Japan Station, I talk about the Kyushu Challenge, my recent 558 km walk from Iwakuni, Yamaguchi to Sakurajima, Kagoshima. 👉Topics Discussed About the Kyushu Challenge The route I took to walk from Iwakuni in Yamaguchi Prefecture to Sakurajima in Kagoshima Prefecture About how a restaurant owner gave me money How I appeared on TV in Yamaguchi Prefecture About kawara soba About okonomiyaki About the scariest tunnel I ever had to walk through About walking through rural southern Kumamoto and Kagoshima About the Hisatsu Orange Railway The benefit of regional JR rail pas...
2025-11-2055 minJapan Station: Deep Dives into Japanese Culture, Language & SocietyHow I got my CHEAPEST Japan ticket EVER! | Japan Station 183On this episode of Japan Station, I talk about how I was able to save money on airfare for my latest trip to Japan. I also share how I almost lost money due to a luggage issue and I talk about why regional JR passes can save you lots of money while traveling in Japan. 👉Topics Discussed How I get the cheapest plane ticket to Japan ever About smartfares.com Why you should check how many bags you are allowed to check in on a flight About regional JR passes and why they can be...
2025-11-1430 minJapan Station: Deep Dives into Japanese Culture, Language & SocietyThe STUPIDEST belief about Japanese sleep habits EVER! (About Pillows in Japan) | Japan Station 182/Ichimon Japan 76This is a rebroadcast of episode 76 of Ichimon Japan. On this episode of Ichimon Japan we talk about the history of pillows in Japan and an absurd belief regarding the sleeping Topics Discussed About the history of pillows in Japan About early pillows in Japanese history About the evolution of pillows in Japan About pillows during the Edo Period About hakomakura (box pillows) About the oldest pillow in Japan X About stereotypes regarding Japanese people versus Westerners About the idea Japanese people have longer intestines than Westerners About Sobagawa/Sobakawa buchwheat pillows About dakimakura (hug pillows...
2025-11-0755 minJapan Station: Deep Dives into Japanese Culture, Language & SocietyHow Japanese terms get abbreviated! Explaining 4 MORA words | Japan Station 181On this episode of Japan Station, we're talking about 4 more words in Japanese. What's a mora? And why are there so many four mora words in Japanese? We talk about all taht and more! 👉Topics Discussed What is a mora? What's the difference between a mora and a syllable The possible origins of nikujaga How Japanese love to shorten terms to four mora/four kana The possible origin of the word jagaimo Examples of other four more abbreviations in Japanese And much more! 👉Subscribe to the Podcast! Apple Podcasts: https://itunes...
2025-11-0116 minJapan Station: Deep Dives into Japanese Culture, Language & SocietyTokyo Tourist Traps: Are these popular Tokyo destinations worth your time? | Japan Station 180On this episode of Japan Station, we talk about some of Tokyo's most popular tourist sites. Are they tourist traps or worth your time? We're also joined by stand up comedian and tour guide Shuhei "Shoe" Murakami. 👉Topics Discussed Is Tokyo Skytree a tourist trap? Should you visit it? Should you visit Tokyo Tower? Should you visit Tokyo Disneyland? Is it a tourist trap? Is Tokyo Disneyland expensive? Is Akihabara a tourist trap? Is Akihabara expensive? About the observation deck on the 45th floor of Tokyo Metropolitan Main Building No. 1 Is Golden Gai a tourist trap? Wha...
2025-10-2143 minJapan Station: Deep Dives into Japanese Culture, Language & SocietyWhy LIES are RED in Japanese (Japanese idioms that use 赤/red) | Japan Station 178On this episode of Japan Station, we're talking about Japanese idioms involving the color red (赤, aka, seki). For example, have you ever wondered why lies are red in Japanese? Listen to find out! 👉Topics Discussed Japanese idioms involving the color red Why 真っ赤なウソ/makka na uso means a "complete lie" and what the color red has to do with lies Also discussing other idioms such as sekirara About the most awesome Japanese tractor song ever And much more! 👉Subscribe to the Podcast! Apple Podcasts: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/japan-station-a-podcast-by-japankyo-com/id1440454968 Spotify...
2025-10-0724 minJapan Station: Deep Dives into Japanese Culture, Language & SocietyThis documentary reveals why Japan is the way it is?! (Ema Ryan Yamazaki) | Japan Station 177On this episode of Japan Station, we're joined by documentary filmmaker Ema Ryan Yamazaki to talk about her latest documentary The Making of a Japanese and her latest short documentary Instrument of a Beating Heart. During the conversation we focus on the making of these films, what makes Japanese elementary schools unique, the role Japanese elementary schools play in shaping Japanese society, and more. 👉Topics Discussed About the making of the documentary The Making of a Japanese About the making of the short documentary Instruments of a Beating Heart What makes Japanese elementary schools unique Cleaning at...
2025-10-0151 minJapan Station: Deep Dives into Japanese Culture, Language & SocietyKaze 風 vs Kaze 風邪! What's the difference?! | Japan Station 174On this episode of Japan Station, we're talking about the difference between the Japanese word kaze (cold, 風邪) and kaze (wind, 風). Why do they share the same pronunciation? Are they related? Or is this all just a big coincidence? Listen to find out! 👉Topics Discussed About visiting Japan for the first time What the difference between kaze (風邪) and kaze (風) is The history of the words kaze and kaze How to say to catch a cold in Japanese Whether the Japanese word for "cold" and "wind" are related And much more! 👉Subscribe to the Podcast! Apple Podcas...
2025-09-0621 minJapan Station: Deep Dives into Japanese Culture, Language & SocietyTales from the Tokaido Road: About the Tokaido Challenge | Japan Station 171/Ichimon Japan 78On this episode of Japan Station we ask: What was it like walking the Tokaido Road? NOTE: This is a re-broadcast of episode 78 of the Ichimon Japan podcast. Topics Discussed About the Tokaido Challenge About what it was like walking the Tokaido Road About the challenges of walking the Tokaido Road About what it was like walking from Kyoto to Tokyo About getting stopped by police in Kyoto About walking along the Shizuoka coast How long it took to walk the Tokaido And much more! Listen to Ichimon Japan on [btn btnlink="https://podcasts.apple...
2025-08-1558 minJapan Station: Deep Dives into Japanese Culture, Language & SocietyDON'T do these 8 things on trains in JAPAN! | Japan Station 170On this episode of Japan Station, we're talking about train etiquette in Japan. We're covering a recent Japanese survey that lists the 8 most irritating things people do on trains in Japan. 👉Topics Discussed Eight things you shouldn't do on Japanese trains A survey indicating eight annoying things people do on Japanese trains How people in Japan deal with annoying things people do on Japanese trains And much more! 👉Subscribe to the Podcast! Apple Podcasts: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/japan-station-a-podcast-by-japankyo-com/id1440454968 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6lDoFFt4M0HyyKaV...
2025-08-0731 minJapan Station: Deep Dives into Japanese Culture, Language & SocietyShikoku's 88 Temple Pligrimmage: What You Should KNOW (Kevin Tarpey) | Japan Station 169On this episode of Japan Station, Kevin Tarpey joins us to talk about what it was like doing Shikoku's famous 88 Temple Pilgrimmage and why Japan is such a great place for long-distance walking. 👉Topics Discussed Why Japan is such a great place for long-distance walking About the famous Shikoku 88 temple pilgrimmage (Ohenro, お遍路) What it's like walking the 88 temple pilgrimmage How long it took to walk the 88 temple pilgrimmage in Shikoku How much distance Kevin covered per day while doing the 88 temple pilgrimmage About getting blisters while walking the 88 temple pilgrimmage About the importance of pacing yourself while doi...
2025-08-011h 04Japan Station: Deep Dives into Japanese Culture, Language & SocietyShe moved to this Japanese island to FARM INDIGO?! (Sally Hancox of AiAii) | Japan Station 168On this episode of Japan Station, we learn about traditional Japanese indigo dyeing from Sally Hancox, one of the co-owners of AiAii Worshop & Shop on Awaji island. This is a conversation to dye for! Sorry, I couldn't help myself. 👉Topics Discussed About AiiAii Worshop & Shop About the aizome (indigo dyeing) process About farming and preparing indigo for dyeing Why Sally Hancox ended up farming and working with indigo What are the benefits of natural indigo dyeing About the workshops at AiAii About Awaji How to get to Awaji How to get in touch with Sally...
2025-07-2139 minJapan Station: Deep Dives into Japanese Culture, Language & SocietyHow Japanese scandals EXPLODE! (Igor Prusa) | Japan Station 167On this episode of Japan Station, we talk about scandals in Japan. My guest Dr. Igor Prusa tells about how scandals in Japan work, how they surface and how entertainers/business people/politicians who get caught in scandals try to deal with them. This is a truly SCANDALOUS episode. Sorry, couldn't resist. 👉Topics Discussed The characteristics of a Japanese scandal About the Noriko Sakai scandal Why the Sakai Noriko scandal was such a big deal What celebrities caught in scandals are expected to do About the press conferences often seen after a scandal rises to...
2025-07-1649 minJapan Station: Deep Dives into Japanese Culture, Language & SocietyWHICH is CORRECT? Funiki vs Fuinki (雰囲気) | Japan Station 165On this episode of Japan Station, we talk about the Japanese word funiki (雰囲気) and other words that aren't read the way they are written. 👉Topics Discussed About the Japanese word funiki (雰囲気) What the correct way to read/pronounce funiki is Whether you should read funiki as fun'iki （ふんいき) or fuinki (ふいんき) Why so many people pronounce funiki incorrectly About words like manin (満員) and zenin (全員) and why people often pronounce them incorrectly/differently from how they are written in kana About 音位転換 (onitenkan)/metathesis in Japanese words About Akihabara vs Akibahara What a funiki ikemen (雰囲気イケメン) is And much more! 👉Subscribe to the Podcast! Apple Podcasts: https://i...
2025-07-0129 minJapan Station: Deep Dives into Japanese Culture, Language & SocietyWhat is "PLUS ALPHA?" The Meaning & Origin of the Japanese term purasu arufa/プラスアルファ | Japan Station 161On this episode of Japan Station, I break down what the Japanese term "plus alpha" (purasu arufa/プラスアルファ) means and its possible origins. 👉Topics Discussed What does "plus alpha" (purasu arufa/プラスアルファ) mean? How you use the Japanese term purasu arufa プラスアルファ The most popular etymology of the term of purasu arufa Real world examples of purasu arufa in use About what puramaizero means (プラマイゼロ) And much more! 👉Subscribe to the Podcast! Apple Podcasts: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/japan-station-a-podcast-by-japankyo-com/id1440454968 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6lDoFFt4M0HyyKaVeDyKkB 👉Support on Patreon & Ko-fi Support on Patreon https://pat...
2025-06-0524 minJapan Station: Deep Dives into Japanese Culture, Language & SocietyThe HISTORY of SUSHI (Dr. Eric C. Rath) | Japan Station 160On this episode of Japan Station, Dr. Eric C. Rath joins us to talk all about the history of what may be Japan's most famous cuisine: SUSHI! We discuss its origins, evolution and more! 👉Topics Discussed Where sushi came from Fermented sushi The meaning of sushi Sushi's Chinese origins Shiga Prefecture's funazushi Sushi in the Edo period Sushi in Japan's post war period Sushi in modern times About sashimi About Kamipai: The History of Sake And much more! 👉Subscribe to the Podcast! Apple Podcasts: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/japan...
2025-06-0144 minJapan Station: Deep Dives into Japanese Culture, Language & SocietyI'm Walking Across KYŪSHŪ! About the Kyūshū Challenge | Japan Station 159On this episode of Japan Station, I talk about my upcoming walk across the island of Kyushu. This fall I will be walking roughly 500 km from Iwakuni in Yamaguchi Prefecture all the way down to Kagoshima as part of what I'm calling the Kyushu Challenge, part three of my ongoing Blind Japan Project. Listen to find out more and please consider coming on as a sponsor or supporting in any way you can! 👉Topics Discussed About the Kyushu Challenge When I will be walking from Iwakuni to Kagoshima as part of the Kyushu Challenge Abo...
2025-05-2311 minJapan Station: Deep Dives into Japanese Culture, Language & SocietyJapanese Street Merchant Slang: 10 Words from Japan's Edo Merchants | Japan Station 158On this episode of Japan Station, we're talking about Japanese slang that traces its roots back to Edo and Meiji era street vendors. We're digging into the origins of words like deka, mappo, and even the infamous yabai. 👉Topics Discussed The etymology/origins of 10 words that trace their origins back to the Edo and Meiji Periods About the meaning and origins of sakura (サクラ) About the origins of deka (でか) About the origins of posharu (ぽしゃる) About the origins of mappo (まっぽ) About the origins of gakuran (学ラン) About the origins of neta (ねた) About the origins of yabai (やばい) About the origins of boru (ぼる) About the...
2025-05-2042 minJapan Station: Deep Dives into Japanese Culture, Language & SocietyTelling Time in the Edo Period! Obscure Japanese Vocabulary & Etymology | Japan Station 156On this episode of Japan Station, we're talking about vocabulary and phrases related to telling time during the Edo Period! This is a surprisingly deep and interesting topic no matter whether you're learning Japanese or not! 👉Topics Discussed What does oyatsu mean? (おやつ) What the origin of the word oyatsu is About the Edo Period time system How to tell time during Japan's Edo Period The names of the time divisions used during the Edo Period What does shirokujichū (四六時中) means The etymology/origin of the word shirokujichū (四六時中) What does asameshimae （朝飯前) mean? The origins/etymology of asameshimae And more 👉Subscribe to...
2025-05-0623 minJapan Station: Deep Dives into Japanese Culture, Language & SocietyJapan's DEADLY Treat: MOCHI Explained! | Japan Station 155On this episode of Japan Station, we're talking about one of Japan's most iconic foods: mochi. Learn all about the history, lore and consumption practices of this important Japanese food! 👉Topics Discussed About the history and origins of mochi What mochi is About how people eat mochi in Japan About yukimi daifuku/ice cream mochi About kagami mochi Where the word mochi might have come from About mochi making practices Why it is said there is a rabbit making mochi on the moon Old versus modern ways of making mochi About mochi-related deaths About the...
2025-05-0147 minJapan Station: Deep Dives into Japanese Culture, Language & SocietySupernatural Stories from JAPAN (Kevin O'Shea) | Japan Station 154On this episode of Japan Station, supernatural stories, Japanese folklore, Japanese urban legends and more with Kevin O'Shea, host of the Supernatural Japan podcast. 👉Topics Discussed About the Supernatural Japan podcast About Ikuta Shrine's ghost story About the forest behind Ikuta Shrine in Kobe About exploring spooky places in Japan About the Hakkoda Mountain incident About auspicious animals like swallows and owls About Japanese urban legends like Kuchisake Onna and Teketeke About Hibagon About Japanese cryptids About Mossie, Japan's Lochness monster And more 👉Subscribe to the Podcast! Apple Podcasts: https...
2025-04-2047 minJapan Station: Deep Dives into Japanese Culture, Language & SocietyEikaiwa vs JET vs University Teaching: Which is the better English teaching job in Japan? | Japan Station 153 (Rebroadcast)Originally released on 3/21/2024 as pisode 80 of Ichimon Japan. On this episode of Ichimon Japan we talk about what the best kind of English teaching in Japan is: Eikaiwa, JET Programme (ALT) or university teacher. Topics Discussed What it is like working in an eikaiwa school in Japan What the salary is for an eikaiwa teacher The good and bad about working at an eikaiwa school (private language school) What it is like being an assistant language teacher (ALT) on the JET Programme How much you can earn while on the JET Program The good and bad...
2025-04-1357 minJapan Station: Deep Dives into Japanese Culture, Language & SocietyHow a J-Pop Star's Stomach Hair Resulted in a NEW Japanese Word (The Origins of Gyarandu/ギャランドゥ) | Japan Station 152On this episode of Japan Station, I dig into the history of a fascinating example of Japanese slang: gyarandu (ギャランドゥ). This is a Japanese word that means refers to the patch of hair some people have between their belly button and public area. Often called "happy trail" or "belly/stomach hair," in English, gyarandu has a really interesting history that goes back to one of Japan's most popular 1980s male pop stars: Hideki Saijo. Listen to the episode to learn more! 👉Topics Discussed What does gyarandu (ギャランドゥ) mean? About the meaning of the 1983 Hideki Saijo song "Gyarandu" What the 1983 Sai...
2025-04-0923 minJapan Station: Deep Dives into Japanese Culture, Language & SocietyPreserving Japan's SHOKUNIN Culture (Michael Magers) | Japan Station 151On this episode of Japan Station, I talk to photographer and journalist Michael Magers. Michael has spent over a decade documenting shokunin (artisans/crafworkers) across Japan. During that time has has had many extremely unique expriences such as ama divers, participating in Osaka's infamous Danjiri Festival, and getting tattooed by a traditional Japanese tattoo artist. He talks about those experiences and much more in today's episode! 👉Topics Discussed About how Michael Magers started doing photography work in Japan About working on Rice, Noodlem Fish About shokunin culture in Japan What is shokunin culture About pres...
2025-04-011h 04
Japan Station: Deep Dives into Japanese Culture, Language & SocietyWhat it's like running a bar in TOKYO! (Pintology Craft Beer & Whisky) | Japan Station 150On this episode of Japan Station, I talk to Kyle Broyles of Pintology Craft Beer & Whisky in Tokyo. In this interview we talk about what it's like running a bar in Tokyo, starting a business in Tokyo, Japanese craft beer and more. 👉Topics Discussed About Pintology Craft Beer & Whisky About running a craft beer bar in Tokyo Japanese craft beer in Tokyo Growing a business in Tokyo Organic marketing And more 👉Subscribe to the Podcast! Apple Podcasts: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/japan-station-a-podcast-by-japankyo-com/id1440454968 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6...
2025-03-2243 minJapan Station: Deep Dives into Japanese Culture, Language & SocietyThe ORIGINS of "NEKO!" Digging into the ETYMOLOGY of the Japanese Word for "CAT" | Japan Station 149On this episode of Japan Station, I examine the mysterious origins of the Japanese word for cat: neko. Trust me, there's a whole lot more to say about the topic than you might think! 👉Topics Discussed The etymology of neko/cat Various theories that try to explain the origins of the Japanese word for cat Whether the Japanese word for cat traces its origins back to Chine/Chinese When cats first arrived in Japan What the onomatopoeia for a cat meowing was in The Tale of Genji About the song Neko Funjatta and wh...
2025-03-0630 minJapan Station: Deep Dives into Japanese Culture, Language & SocietyMurakami Haruki on FILM: A Guide to the Movie Adaptations of Japan's Most Famous Novelist (Marc Yamada) | Japan Station 148On this episode of Japan Station, we talk about the many film adaptation of the works of Haruki Murakami, Japan's most well-known and commercially successful novelist. 👉Topics Discussed Why is Haruki Murakami so popular around the world? About the many film adaptations of the books and short stories of Haruki Murakami About the relatability of Murakami's characters About Hard Boiled Wonderland and the End of Tomorrow About Murakami's skill at writing magical realism About the music and pop culture references Murakami includes in his work How Murakami's strangeness makes his work accessible to people both...
2025-03-0133 minJapan Station: Deep Dives into Japanese Culture, Language & SocietyWhat is ODEN? A Deep Dive into a Classic Japanese Winter Food | Japan Station 147On this episode of Japan Station, we talk about oden, one of Japan's most popular winter foods. 👉Topics Discussed What is oden? Where to buy oden in Japan? What are the common igredients of oden? The history of oden Where the name oden came from About dengaku About regional varieties of oden Whether oden tastes good Should you try oden? What is konjac? Our favorite oden ingredients About the infamous 2016 "oden tsun tsun otoko" (oden poke man) convenience store incident And more 👉Subscribe to the Podcast! Apple Podcasts: https://itunes.apple...
2025-02-2147 minJapan Station: Deep Dives into Japanese Culture, Language & SocietyThis CLOSED Kyoto Hotel Let Me Stay the Night! Here's What Happened! | Japan Station 146On this episode of Japan Station, I talk about what it was like staying at a new Kyoto hotel before it opened. 👉Topics Discussed About Fushigina Yado Where Fushigina Yado is located About the theme and concept of Fushigina Yado About what it was like staying in Fushigina Yado Why I got to stay at Fushigina Yado before it opened About the shops and restaurants near Fushigina Yado And more 👉Subscribe to the Podcast! Apple Podcasts: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/japan-station-a-podcast-by-japankyo-com/id1440454968 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6lDoFFt...
2025-02-2113 min
Japan Station: Deep Dives into Japanese Culture, Language & Society3 Obscure Japanese Dishes You MUST Try! | Japan Station 145 On this episode of Japan Station, we talk about three obscure Japanese dishes you need to try next time you're in Japan. 👉Topics Discussed What is teppan spa (teppan supa, 鉄板スパ)? What is teppanyaki naporitan About the history of teppanyaki spaghetti About the origin of Nagoya's famous teppanyaki naporitan About Osaka teppanyaki spaghetti About the origin of Japan's infamous napolitan pasta (naporitan pasuta) What is ebimeshi? How ebimeshi became famous in Okayama About the different varieties of ebimeshi About Torkish Rice/toruko raisu (トルコライス） What is toruko raisu? About the time I interviewed the owner of t...
2025-02-0244 minJapan Station: Deep Dives into Japanese Culture, Language & SocietyA Guide to Japanese Hotels! Tips & Tricks for Japan Travelers | Japan Station 144On this episode of Japan Station, we're talking about hotels in Japan! This episode will give you all the information you need to know before you come visit Japan. Plenty of tips, tricks and basic information! 👉Topics Discussed About the various kinds of hotels in Japan Tips for booking hotels in Japan at cheap prices How much Japanese hotel rooms tend to cost About the size of Japanese hotel rooms How to find hotel rooms in Japan at cheaper rates than what you see online About business hotels like APA hotel and Toy...
2025-01-2258 min
Japan Station: Deep Dives into Japanese Culture, Language & SocietyThe Senkaku Islands: What You Should Know (Robert D. Eldridge) | Japan Station 143On this episode of Japan Station, we talk about the Senkaku Islands with Dr. Robert D. Eldridge. 👉Topics Discussed What and where are the Senkaku Islands? (尖閣諸島, senkaku shotō) About the history of the Senkaku Islands About Koga Tatsushirō Why people stopped living on the Senkaku Islands How and why it was that the Senkaku Islands came to be disputed The role of President Nixon and Henry Kissinger in the history of the Senkaku Islands Why U.S. Armed Forces should restart firing ranges on the Senkaku Islands And more! 👉Subscribe to the Podcast! Ap...
2025-01-0249 minJapan Station: Deep Dives into Japanese Culture, Language & SocietyPerilous Wagers: Gambling, Dignity, and Day Laborers in 21st-Century Tokyo (Klaus K.Y. Hammering) | Japan Station 142On this episode of Japan Station, we talk about life in Sanya--Tokyo's infamous day laborer district--with Klaus K.Y. Hammering. ðŸ'‰Topics Discussed What it is like being a day laborer in Tokyo's Sanya district The dangers of working as a day laborer What kind of people work as day laborers in Sanya About Klaus K.Y. Hammering's experiences working as a day laborer in Japanese construction sites About gambling in Sanya How Sanya has all but vanished over the past couple of decades How Japanese society often ignores what Sanya and its residents And...
2024-12-2143 minJapan Station: Deep Dives into Japanese Culture, Language & SocietyWhat is Dreamlapse Japan? A Talk with Photographer Gavin Heffernan | Japan Station 140On this episod eof Japan Station, we talk to filmmaker and dark sky photographer Gavin Heffernan about his recent Japan-focused project Dreamlapse Japan. 👉Topics Discussed About Dreamlapse Japan About shooting photos and video in Tokyo and other parts of Japan Thoughts on visiting Japan And more! 👉Subscribe to the Podcast! Apple Podcasts: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/japan-station-a-podcast-by-japankyo-com/id1440454968 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6lDoFFt4M0HyyKaVeDyKkB 👉Support on Patreon & Ko-fi Support on Patreon https://patreon.com/japankyo Support on Ko-fi https://www.ko-fi.com/japanky...
2024-12-0237 minJapan Station: Deep Dives into Japanese Culture, Language & SocietyThat Time I Walked to Hiroshima from KYOTO! Tales from the Miyajima Challenge | Japan Station 139On this episod eof Japan Station, we talk about some of the interesting things I experienced during my latest 400 km walk from Kyoto to Miyajima (Miyajima Challenge). 👉Topics Discussed About the Miyajima Challenge About my recent walk from Kyoto to Miyajima, Hiroshima About how I got stopped by police in Hiroshima About the time I had to hitchhike in Okayama About my plans to walk to the bottom of Kagoshima And more! 👉Subscribe to the Podcast! Apple Podcasts: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/japan-station-a-podcast-by-japankyo-com/id1440454968 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/sho...
2024-11-2249 minJapan Station: Deep Dives into Japanese Culture, Language & Society10 Japanese Abbreviations & Contractions To Know! | Japan Station 137On this episode of Japan Station, we talk about Japanese abbreviations/contractions, give 12 examples and discuss their origins. 👉Topics Discussed About abbreviations and contractions in Japanese About waseieigo (made in English) About the origins of the Sharp company About the Japanese word wanchan About the possible origin of the word potation in Japanese: jagaimo And more! 👉Subscribe to the Podcast! Apple Podcasts: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/japan-station-a-podcast-by-japankyo-com/id1440454968 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6lDoFFt4M0HyyKaVeDyKkB 👉Support on Patreon & Ko-fi Support on Patreon https://patreon...
2024-10-2944 minJapan Station: Deep Dives into Japanese Culture, Language & SocietyThe Shimabara Rebellion, Yokai and More! (Charles Kowalski) | Japan Station 136On this episode of Japan Station, we talk about the Shimabara Rebellion, yÅkai and more with the author of the Simon Grey books, Charles Kowalski. ðŸ'‰Topics Discussed What is the Shimabara Rebellion (島原ã®ä¹±, Shimabara no ran) About the hidden Christians of Nagasaki/Shimabara About the building of Shimabara Castle About researching the Shimabara Rebellion About Amakusa Shiro (益ç"° 四郎) The legends surrounding Amakusa Shiro About researching the Shimabara Rebellion in Nagasaki About getting to see the actual flag of Amakusa Shiro About Dejima About the Gashadokuro About Takiyasha hime About tengu About training with modern day Shugendo practitioners Abou...
2024-09-2936 minJapan Station: Deep Dives into Japanese Culture, Language & SocietyThe Etymology of TAMAGO and Other Egg Stuff (Japanese Plus Alpha 01) | Japan Station 135On this episode of Japan Station, we talk about the etymology of the Japanese word for egg (tamago) and other interesting quirks of this word! Note: This is actually an episode of Japanese Plus Alpha. 👉Topics Discussed The phrase ~no tamago The etymology of the word tamago kaigo vs tamago The difference between tamago written with one kanji (卵) and tamago written with two kanji (玉子) And more! 👉Subscribe to the Podcast! Apple Podcasts: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/japan-station-a-podcast-by-japankyo-com/id1440454968 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6lDoFFt4M0HyyKaVeDyKkB 👉Support on...
2024-09-2119 minJapan Station: Deep Dives into Japanese Culture, Language & SocietyThe Tale of Genji Explained (Dr. Lynne Miyake) | Japan Station 134about, it's its significance and its fascinating manga adaptations. 👉Topics Discussed What The Tale of Genji (Genji Monogatari) is about The historical significance of The Tale of Genji The influence of The Tale of Genji About the ending of The Tale of Genji About the English translations of The Tale of Genji and their differences About the many manga adaptations of The Tale of Genji About the manga II ne, Hikaru Genji About what is so interesting about The Tale of Genji About how The Tale of Genji is taught in schools in Japan About the versio...
2024-09-0153 minJapan Station: Deep Dives into Japanese Culture, Language & SocietyThe Weak Yen & Rural Japan: Why They Matter | Japan Station 132On this episode of Japan Station, we talk about the importance of revitalizing rural Japan, the negative impact of the weak yen on Japan, and more with Dr. Robert D. Eldridge. 👉Topics Discussed What is chihō sōsei (地方創生)? About the importance of chihō sōsei Why it is important to preserve and revitalize rural areas of Japan About the weak yen (enyasu, 円安) How the weak Japanese yen negatively impacts Japan About inflation and stagflation in Japan About the relationship between low wages, the weak Japanese yen and brain drain in Japan Job prospects for young people in Japa...
2024-08-0156 minJapan Station: Deep Dives into Japanese Culture, Language & SocietyJapan's UNBELIEVABLE DOG Pilgrimages | Japan Station 131On this episode of Japan Station, we talk about how dogs in Japan used to go on religious pilgrimages (maybe?). 👉Topics Discussed About religious pilgrimages in Japan About the 88 temple pilgrimage in Shikoku About Konpira/Kotohira About Konpira inu About the supposed history of dogs going on pilgrimages to Konpira Shrine in Kagawa Prefecture About the story of Shiro the dog from Fukushima who supposedly traveled to Ise Shrine and back About Ise Jingu About the Ise Pilgrimage How likely it is that dogs in Japan actually went on religious pilgrimages About okage inu Abo...
2024-07-2130 minJapan Station: Deep Dives into Japanese Culture, Language & SocietyMY NEXT BIG ADVENTURE! The Miyajima Challenge Explained! | Japan Station 130On this episode of Japan Station, I talk about the Miyajima Challenge: my upcoming walk from Kyoto to Miyajima in Hiroshima Prefecture. 👉Topics Discussed About the Miyajima Challenge Why I am walking from Kyoto to Miyajima in Hiroshima Prefecture About the course of the Miyajima Challenge (Kyoto, Osaka, Kobe, Okayama, Hiroshima) About raising awareness of the blind and visually impaired About the sponsors of the Miyajima Challenge When the Miyajima Challenge will start About a meet up at Pintology Tokyo And more! 👉Subscribe to the Podcast! Apple Podcasts: https://itunes.apple...
2024-07-0216 minJapan Station: Deep Dives into Japanese Culture, Language & SocietyOsaka ComicCon: Should You Go? | Japan Station 129On this episode of Japan Station, we talk about Osaka ComicCon. Is worth attending? What should you expect? Listen to find out! 👉Topics Discussed About Osaka ComicCon What you should expect at Osaka ComicCon Where Osaka ComicCon was held And more! 👉Subscribe to the Podcast! Apple Podcasts: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/japan-station-a-podcast-by-japankyo-com/id1440454968 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6lDoFFt4M0HyyKaVeDyKkB 👉Support on Patreon & Ko-fi Support on Patreon https://patreon.com/japankyo Support on Ko-fi https://www.ko-fi.com/japankyo 👉...
2024-06-2129 minJapan Station: Deep Dives into Japanese Culture, Language & SocietyWalking Historical Kyoto with Phillip Jackson | Japan Station 128On this episode of Japan Station, writer and Kyoto expert Phillip Jackson tells about some great walking areas in Japan's ancient capital city. WARNING: This episode will make you want to go to Kyoto! 👉Topics Discussed About Phillip Jackson The fascinating history of Kyoto Lesser known places to visit in Kyoto A trail in Uji you should check out And more! 👉Subscribe to the Podcast! Apple Podcasts: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/japan-station-a-podcast-by-japankyo-com/id1440454968 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6lDoFFt4M0HyyKaVeDyKkB 👉Support on Patreon & Ko-fi
2024-06-0150 minJapan Station: Deep Dives into Japanese Culture, Language & Society10 Japanese Words I Learned from ANIME | Japan Station 127On this episode of Japan Station, we're talking about Japanese words we learned by watching anime. 👉Topics Discussed How you can use anime, manga and video games to learn Japanese And more! 👉Subscribe to the Podcast! Apple Podcasts: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/japan-station-a-podcast-by-japankyo-com/id1440454968 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6lDoFFt4M0HyyKaVeDyKkB 👉Support on Patreon & Ko-fi Support on Patreon https://patreon.com/japankyo Support on Ko-fi https://www.ko-fi.com/japankyo 👉Links, Videos, Etc. None 👉Follow on Social Media
2024-05-2150 minJapan Station: Deep Dives into Japanese Culture, Language & SocietyWhy Japanese Folklore MATTERS! | Japan Station 126On this episode of Japan Station, we talk about Japanese folklore with Thersa Matsuura of the Uncanny Japan podcast. 👉Topics Discussed About Japanese folklore About yokai About Japanese superstitions About why people should learn Japanese folklore And more! 👉Subscribe to the Podcast! Apple Podcasts: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/japan-station-a-podcast-by-japankyo-com/id1440454968 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6lDoFFt4M0HyyKaVeDyKkB YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@japankyonews 👉Support on Patreon & Ko-fi Support on Patreon https://patreon.com/japankyo Support on Ko-fi https://www.ko-fi.com/japanky...
2024-05-0136 minJapan Station: Deep Dives into Japanese Culture, Language & SocietyUnexpected Japanese Word Origins: FART | Japan Station 125This time we're taking a deep dive into the history of the Japanese word for fart: onara. Where did it come from? What is its true meaning? What is its link to a secret ancient language spoken hundreds of years ago in Japan? We're answering all those questions and more! SUPPORT Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/japankyo Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/japankyo Listen to the Japan Station Podcast! https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/japan-station-a-podcast-about-japan-by-japankyo-com/id1440454968 Follow on X https://twitter.com/japankyonews...
2024-04-2011 minJapan Station: Deep Dives into Japanese Culture, Language & SocietyThe Real Reason I Walked from Kyoto to Tokyo | Japan Station 124On this episode of Japan Station, we talk about why I decided to walk the old Tokaido Road in 2023 and the impact it had. This episode features a speech I did for the 2024 state convention of the Hawaii Association of the Blind. Topics Discussed Why I walked the Tokaido in 2023 What my goal was How I raised awareness of the blind & visually impaired community by walking from Kyoto to Tokyo And more! Support on Patreon & Ko-fi If you enjoy Ichimon Japan and want to ensure that we're able to produce more e...
2024-04-1519 minJapan Station: Deep Dives into Japanese Culture, Language & SocietyWhy Learning Japanese is POINTLESS (for most..) | Japan Station 123On this episode of Japan Station, we talk about why you shouldn't try to learn Japanese. Topics Discussed How AI and translation software are making it unnecessary to learn Japanese How learning Japanese is pointless for most people Why you should learn Japanese Reasons people would want to study Japanese And more! Support on Patreon & Ko-fi If you enjoy Ichimon Japan and want to ensure that we're able to produce more episodes, then please consider becoming a patron on Patreon.com. You can join for just $1 a month. Patrons get first a...
2024-04-0815 minJapan Station: Deep Dives into Japanese Culture, Language & SocietyHow Akira Toriyama Changed the World & My Life | Japan Station 122On this episode of Japan Station, we talk about the manga creator Akira Toriyama and his impact on the world and my life. Topics Discussed About the passing of manga creator Akira Toriyama About the impact and influence of Akira Toriyama on the US and the world About the impact of Dragon Ball and Dragon Ball Z About the popularity of the Dragon Ball franchise around the world About discovering Dragon Ball in Peru And more! Support on Patreon & Ko-fi If you enjoy Ichimon Japan and want to ensure that we're able to...
2024-04-0117 minJapan Station: Deep Dives into Japanese Culture, Language & SocietyWe Bought a Geisha House! About Geisha House Atami | Japan Station 121On this episode of Japan Station, we're talking to the owners of Geisha House Atami and learning about what it's like to buy an old house in Japan, restore it and more! Topics Discussed About Geisha House Atami About Atami About the history of Atami About what it's like buying an old house in Japan Whether you should buy a cheap abandoned house in Japan What you should be aware of before you try to buy a house in Japan What can be annoying about buying an old house in Japan What you can e...
2024-03-0146 minJapan Station: Deep Dives into Japanese Culture, Language & SocietyMy 3 Worst Japanese Mistakes | Japan Station 120On this episode of Japan Station, I talk about the worst 3 mistakes I made while learning Japanese. Topics Discussed About the history of Kabosu the Shibainu and the Doge meme About three of the worst mistakes I made while learning Japanese About the importance of studying Japanese outside of the classroom The funniest mistake I ever made while speaking Japanese About the word toire And much more Support on Patreon & Ko-fi If you enjoy Ichimon Japan and want to ensure that we're able to produce more episodes, then please consider becoming a...
2024-02-0116 minJapan Station: Deep Dives into Japanese Culture, Language & SocietyWhy there's a DOGE statue in Japan! | Japan Station 119On this episode of Japan Station, we learn about the new statue of the famous Kabosu the shibainu (a.k.a. Doge) that was erected in Sakura City, Chiba Prefecture. Are you ready to go on "the Doge Pilgrimage?" Topics Discussed About the history of Kabosu the Shibainu and the Doge meme About the process of creating the Doge statue that is in Sakura City in Chiba Prefecture near Narita Airport About how the creation of the Doge statue was funded How the Own the Doge organization created the bronze Doge statue About connecting a...
2024-01-1531 minJapan Station: Deep Dives into Japanese Culture, Language & Society5 TIPS to Make Your Japan Trip GREAT!😊| Japan Station 118On this episode of Japan Station, licensed travel guide Miyuki Seguchi shares 5 travel tips that will help you make the most out of your next visit to Japan. Topics Discussed What the process is like for becoming a licensed travel guide The importance of planning your trip to Japan Advice for making the most out of your trip to Japan How booking a tour can help you enjoy your trip in Japan even more 5 tips you should keep in mind when preparing to travel to Japan And much more Support on Patreon & Ko-fi
2023-12-0125 minJapan Station: Deep Dives into Japanese Culture, Language & SocietyMAID Massage in AKIHABARA: My Review | Japan Station 117On this episode of Japan Station, I talk about what it was like getting a massage by a maid in Akihabara. Topics Discussed About Akihabara Maid Reflexology Felicie About what it was like getting massaged by a maid in Akihabara About how much it costs to get a massage by a maid in Akihabara About getting a foot massage by a maid in Akihabara About whether you should get a massage by a maid in Akihabara And much more Support on Patreon & Ko-fi If you enjoy Ichimon Japan and want to e...
2023-11-1617 minJapan Station: Deep Dives into Japanese Culture, Language & SocietyI Got HARASSED in Japan! | Japan Station 116On this episode of Japan Station, I talk about the time I was harassed in Japan.. Topics Discussed Getting harassed in Japan How I dealt with being harassed at a Japanese train station And much more Support on Patreon & Ko-fi If you enjoy Ichimon Japan and want to ensure that we're able to produce more episodes, then please consider becoming a patron on Patreon.com. You can join for just $1 a month. Patrons get first access to podcast episodes, as well as updates on what I'm working on for JapanKyo.com. I...
2023-11-0915 minJapan Station: Deep Dives into Japanese Culture, Language & SocietyI Walked 500 km from Kyoto to Tokyo and I'm Legally Blind... It Was CRAZY! | Japan Station 115On this episode of Japan Station, I talk about my experience walking 500 km from Kyoto to Tokyo in September-October 2023. Check it out to learn about the Tokaido Challenge (a.k.a. the craziest adventure I've ever had in Japan). Topics Discussed What the Tōkaidō Challenge is What the Tōkaidō road is The many different Tōkaidō raods that exist When I started walking How long it took to walk from Kyoto to Tokyo The difficulties I had to face while walking the Tōkaidō The parts of the Tōkaidō I had to omit The diffic...
2023-11-0345 minJapan Station: Deep Dives into Japanese Culture, Language & SocietyHow I Fell in Love with Japan (NEONshe) | Japan Station 114On this episode of Japan Station, I talk to musician NEONshe about how she fell in love with Japan, how Japan inspired her music, her time in Japan, her upcoming move to Japan and more. Topics Discussed About NEONshe and her musical career NEONshe's time living in Japan How she became interested in Japan The Japanese music artists that have influenced NEONshe Perfumre, Kyary Pamyu Pamyu, Nakata Yasutaka About NEONshe's first album J-POP The inspiration for NEONshe's song Osaka Child About NEONshe's upcoming move to Kyoto And much more Support on Patreon & Ko-fi
2023-11-0134 minJapan Station: Deep Dives into Japanese Culture, Language & SocietySeeing Japan While Blind (Maud Rowell) | Japan Station 112On this episode of Japan Station, I talk to Maud Rowell, a freelance journalist and writer who spent a year traveling around Japan. Topics Discussed About Maud Rowell About traveling around Japan as a person with a visual impairment About Blind Spot About becoming interested in Japan About getting a scholarship to travel around a Japan for a year About visiting Hachijojima (青ヶ島) and Aogashima About public transportation in Japan About tactile paving/yellow braille blocks About accessibility for the blind in Japan About doing the 88 Temple Pilgrimmage in Shikoku And much more Support on Patre...
2023-09-0156 minJapan Station: Deep Dives into Japanese Culture, Language & SocietyI'm Walking from Kyoto to Tokyo (And I'm Legally Blind) | Japan Station 112On September 21st I'm starting something I'm calling the MAJISON Tokaido Challenge. Basically I'll be walking over 300 miles from Kyoto to Tokyo over the course of around 30 days. Watch the video to find out more about this crazy challenge and why I decided to do it. Topics Discussed About walking from Kyoto to Tokyo About walking the Tokaido About the MAJISON Tokaido Challenge About MAJISON And much more Support on Patreon & Ko-fi If you enjoy Japan Station and want to ensure that we're able to produce more episodes, then...
2023-08-1629 minJapan Station: Deep Dives into Japanese Culture, Language & SocietyShe Learned Japanese By Being On Japanese TV (Jessica Gerrity) | Japan Station 111Jessica Gerrity, a TV personality working in Japan, martial artist, pracitioner of kyudo (Japanese archery),and writer! Topics Discussed Jessica' work on Japanese TV How she became interested in Japan Why she first went to Japan How she got into the Japanese entertainment industry Working with SMAP Learning Japanese How being on TV helped her learn Japanese The behind the scenes of Japanese TV About how Japanese TV is scripted The good and bad on working on Japanese TV About kyudo (Japanese archery) How much it costs to get into kyudo About yabusame (horseback...
2023-08-0752 minJapan Station: Deep Dives into Japanese Culture, Language & SocietyGo To Japan NOW | Japan Station 110On this episode of the Japan Station podcast, Tony talks about his most recent trip to Japan and why you should go to Japan now. Topics Discussed Why you should go to Japan now The yen-dollar exchange rate Cheap yen About the Okubo and Shin Okubo area in Tokyo About Fuji-Q Highland About Team Lab Planets And much more Listen to Japan Station on [btn btnlink="https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/japan-station-a-podcast-by-japankyo-com/id1440454968" btnsize="medium" bgcolor="#0568bf" txtcolor="#ffffff" btnnewt="1" nofollow="1"]Apple Podcasts[/btn] [btn btnlink="https://play.google.com...
2023-07-0132 minJapan Station: Deep Dives into Japanese Culture, Language & SocietyInside Shinjuku Ni-chōme, Japanese Gay Media & More (Dr. Thomas Baudinette) | Japan Station 104On this episode of the Japan Station podcast, Dr Thomas Baudinette talks about Shinjuku's Ni-chome district and Japanese media as it relates to queer individuals/gay men in Japan. About Dr. Thomas Baudinette Dr. Thomas Baudinette is Senior Lecturer in Japanese and International Studies in the Department of Media, Communications, Creative Arts, Languages and Literatures at Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia. He is a cultural anthropologist whose work has explored consumption of popular culture among queer communities in Japan, Mainland China, Thailand, and the Philippines. He has a particular interest in the transnational spread of Japanese queer popular culture...
2023-01-0159 minJapan Station: Deep Dives into Japanese Culture, Language & Society100０He Started a Craft Beer Bar in Tokyo, Here's How (Kyle Broyles of Pintology)On this episode of the Japan Station podcast, Kyle Broyles of Pintology in Tokyo tells us about the process of starting and running a craft beer in Tokyo. Plus we celebrate episode 100 of Japan Station! About Kyle Broyles Kyle Broyles helps his wife run Pintology, a craft beer bar near Shinjuku in Tokyo. Kyle is also known as one of the guys behind the Tokyo Splosion podcast and the Hard Officers YouTube channel. Topics Discussed About JapanKyo Docs About the recently opened craft beer bar Pintology in Sasazuka, Tokyo The stor...
2022-10-1557 minJapan Station: Deep Dives into Japanese Culture, Language & SocietyDiscussing Hiroshima, Hawaii, & Akiya (Abandoned Japanese Houses) w. J.J. Walsh of Seek Sustainable JapanOn this episode of the Japan Station podcast, we're joined by J.J. Walsh of the Seek Sustainable Japan podcast/YouTube talk show and we're talking about Japanese influences in Hawaii, life in Hiroshima and the ever-popular topic of remodeling akiya (abondoned homes in Japan). About J.J. Walsh J.J. Walsh is the host of the podcast/YouTube talk show Seek Sustainable Japan. Along with her husband she also runs the website gethiroshima.com. J.J. is also known for her knowledge of abandoned Japanese homes (akiya) and what goes into remodeling them. Topics Discussed Life growing...
2022-02-0156 minJapan Station: Deep Dives into Japanese Culture, Language & SocietyThe Green Tea History You Didn't Know: About the History of Green Tea in Japan & the U.S. (Dr. Robert Hellyer)On this episode of the Japan Station podcast, Dr. Robert Hellyer stops by to discuss the shared history of green tea in Japan and the U.S., as well as his new book Green with Milk and Sugar: When Japan Filled America's Tea Cups. About Dr. Robert Hellyer Robert Hellyer is associate professor of history at Wake Forest University. He is the author of Defining Engagement: Japan and Global Contexts, 1640–1868 and coeditor of The Meiji Restoration: Japan as a Global Nation. His latest book is Green with Milk and Sugar: When Japan Filled America's Tea Cups. To...
2021-11-1544 minJapan Station: Deep Dives into Japanese Culture, Language & SocietyBehind the Scenes of JapanKyo DocsOn this episode of the Japan Station podcast, Kyle from the Tokyo Splosion stops by to talk about JapanKyo's new YouTube channel: JapanKyo Docs! Topics Discussed About the creation of the JapanKyo Docs YouTube channel About Kyle from the Tokyo Splosion podcast The JET salary About filming in Okutama Fun anecdotes that occurred during the filming of JapanKyo Docs videos About shooting a video of an emu rancher in Okutama, Tokyo How we find interesting people for JapanKyo Docs videos About Yuki from Regent Times About the labor intensive process of styling your hair into a...
2021-11-0138 min
Japan Station: Deep Dives into Japanese Culture, Language & SocietyANNOUNCEMENT: JapanKyo Docs Now On YouTube!!!!Tony Vega has teamed up with Kyle from the Tokyo Splosion podcast to launch a new YouTube channel called JapanKyo Docs. On the channel we will be introducing people to doing interesting things in Japan via documentary style videos! Click on the link below to check it out. Please subscribe and support us in this endeavor! https://bit.ly/3b38cKJ And in case you haven't listened to the Tokyo Splosion podcast, here's a link! It's a really fun show. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/tokyo-splosion-a-comedy-podcast/id1278709680 https://tokyosplosion.libsyn.com/
2021-10-2302 minJapan Station: Deep Dives into Japanese Culture, Language & SocietyHow did you become so familiar with Japan? (Bonus Solo Episode)On this episode of the Japan Station podcast, Tony answers the question: How did you become so familiar with Japan? About Tony Vega Tony Vega is a writer, editor, and podcaster. He has lived in Japan as both a student and participant of the JET Programme. He possesses an M.A. in Japanese language and linguistics from the University of Hawaii at Manoa. Tony is the creator of Japankyo.com and he produces both the Japan Station and Ichimon Japan podcasts. Aside from his work on JapanKyo.com, he is the editor in chief of Wasabi magazine...
2021-03-0816 minJapan Station: Deep Dives into Japanese Culture, Language & SocietyPresenting Japanese Plus Alpha | I Stepped on the Etymology of "Neko" (The Cat Episode)Japanese Plus Alpha is the latest podcast in the JapanKyo Podcast Network. Produced by Tony Vega, Japanese Plus Alpha focuses on the Japanese language and its many fascinating quirks. The show is designed as a fun way to learn about the Japanese language while at the same time gaining insight into Japanese history, culture, linguistics, and more. In other words, Japanese Plus Alpha is great for both those studying the Japanese language and those who enjoy learning about the world through language. Currently, Japanese Plus Alpha is available only via the JapanKyo.com Patreon. To get access...
2020-07-2630 minJapan Station: Deep Dives into Japanese Culture, Language & SocietyIchimon Japan 01: What's the deal with catgirls? (About nekomimi)This is episode 1 of the latest podcast by Japankyo: Ichimon Japan. Subscribe now wherever you get your podcasts so you don't miss future episodes. Ichimon Japan on Apple Ichimon Japan on Stitcher Ichimon Japan on Spotify Today's Question On this episode of chimon Japan we ask: What's the deal with catgirls? Topics Discussed The history and origins of the trope of the catgirl What nekomimi (猫耳) means The existence of "catboys" (male nekomimi characters) Yōkai reminiscent of catgirls such as bakeneko nd nekomata The depiction of bakeneko women in Edo era u...
2020-01-2344 minJapan Station: Deep Dives into Japanese Culture, Language & SocietyPresenting Ichimon Japan: A Podcast by Japankyo.com [Trailer]That's right! Japankyo.com is about to launch a second podcast, so check out the trailer now! About Ichimon Japan Set to launch in early 2020 (likely January), Ichimon Japan will offer listeners insight into all aspects of Japan, its culture, language, history, society, and pop culture. Every episode hosts Tony and Ryan will ask one question (ichimon) about Japan. Drawing on their own experiences in Japan, their knowledge of the Japanese language and linguistics, and plenty of research using both Japanese and English-language sources, they'll do everything they can to answer the q...
2019-12-2502 min