Sakura (Cherry blossom trees)
Ancient Japanese folktales offer a window into the philosophies and culture of Japan. Join Jason and Paul as they share and discuss two timeless tales that have been passed down through the centuries!
Ubazakura
Rokurokubi
Jiu-Roku-Zakura
The Goblin of Adachigahara
Japan may be one of the safest countries in the world, but that doesn’t mean it’s without its share of chilling and horrific crimes. Join Jason and Paul as they delve into some of the most shocking cases in Japan’s history.
Junko Furuta
Issei Sagawa
Kobe Child Murders
Nevada-Tan
Ninja of Heisei
Podcast Meetup 2024: Nov 6th, 2024 at 7:00pm at Commune on the rooftop of the Shibuya Parco shopping mall in Tokyo. Take the elevator to the 9th floor and then take the escalator to the roof.
Nunobiki Herb Garden in Kobe
Magome, a post town on the Nakasendo
Kyoto and Osaka offer countless attractions, but venturing beyond these cities for day trips can unveil another side of Japan. Join Jason and Paul as they explore the diverse experiences waiting just outside Kansai’s largest metropolis!
Nara (Ep112)
Hiroshima (Ep118)
Kobe (Ep96)
Uji
Koyasan
Himeji
Okayama and Kurashiki
Kurama and Kibune
Nakasendo (Magome to Tsumago)
Hikone
Omi Hachiman
Amanohashidate and Ine
Nagoya
Listener Mail: Ryokan Matsubaya — Shoseien Garden — Takase River — Kyoto Railway Museum — Umekoji Park
Podcast Meetup 2024: Nov 6th, 2024 at 7:00pm at Commune on the rooftop of the Shibuya Parco shopping mall in Tokyo. Take the elevator to the 9th floor and then take the escalator to the roof.
Japan has unique television programming that has gained a reputation internationally for being extremely wacky and sometimes even dangerous. Join Jason and Paul as they explore the wild world of reality TV and game shows in Japan!
What is TV like in Japan?
Denpa Shonen
Terrace House
Old Enough
Iron Chef
Takeshi’s Castle
Wafu Sohonke (Japanese Style Originator)
Youtube Segments: Zoo Prank — Candy or Not — Falling Elevator — AKBingo — Bicyclist — Massage Chair Prank — Brain Wall
Can you get on Japanese TV?
Podcast Meetup 2024: Nov 6th, 2024 at 7:00pm at Commune on the rooftop of the Shibuya Parco shopping mall in Tokyo. Take the elevator to the 9th floor and then take the escalator to the roof.
Momotaro (Peach boy), one of the most popular figures in Japanese folklore who is also now the mascot for a denim brand.
Ancient Japanese folktales offer a window into the philosophies and culture of Japan. Join Jason and Paul as they share and discuss two timeless tales that have been passed down through the centuries!
The Stones of Five Colors and the Empress Jokwa
Momotaro, or the Story of the Son of a Peach
Podcast Meetup 2024: Nov 6th, 2024 at 7:00pm at Commune on the rooftop of the Shibuya Parco shopping mall in Tokyo. Take the elevator to the 9th floor and then take the escalator to the roof.
The Hamanasu, an overnight train that ran between Aomori and Sapporo until it was discontinued in 2016.
Japan is known for its incredible train system, but did you know about the wide array of unique sightseeing and overnight trains? Join Jason and Paul as they discuss these exciting travel options that offer new perspectives on Japan’s diverse landscapes and cities!
Overnight Trains: Sunrise Express (Seto/Izumo)
Cruise Trains: Seven Stars in Kyushu — Shiki-Shima — Twilight Express Mizukaze — Royal Express
Sightseeing Trains: Tokaido Shinkansen — Sightseeing Limited Express Aoniyoshi — Kurobe Gorge Railway — Kyo-Train Garaku — Sagano Scenic Railway — Pokemon With You Train — Hisatsu Line — Sanriku Railway Kotatsu Train — Hakone Tozan Line — Fujisan View Express — Furano Biei Norokko Train — Takayama Main Line — Chiba Monorail
Podcast Meetup 2024: Nov 6th, 2024 at 7:00pm at Commune on the rooftop of the Shibuya Parco shopping mall in Tokyo. Take the elevator to the 9th floor and then take the escalator to the roof.
Himeji Castle
Kiyomizu-dera
Japan is full of “must-see” attractions, but which ones are most worth visiting? Join Jason and Paul as they rate some of Japan’s most popular attractions!
Shibuya Crossing
Sensoji Temple
Takeshita Street (Harajuku)
Akihabara
Nikko Toshogu Shrine
Kiyomizu-dera
Fushimi Inari Taisha
Yasaka Pagoda
Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
Osaka Castle
Himeji Castle
Natto is one of Japan’s most divisive foods. Join Jason and Paul as they learn about — and sample — this slimy and smelly delicacy!
History
How is Natto Made?
Types of Natto
How to Eat Natto
Health Benefits
Taste Test
Where to Get Natto
Temari (hand balls), a traditional Japanese handicraft.
Kenrokuen, Kanazawa’s famous Japanese garden.
Gold leaf-covered ice cream is a Kanazawa specialty.
The city of Kanazawa is rich in history and culture, famous for its Edo-era districts and traditional crafts. Join Jason and Paul as they explore the many things to see and do in Kanazawa!
History
Omicho Market
Oyama Shrine
Nagamachi District: Kanazawa City Ashigaru Museum — Nomura-ke Samurai Residence — Kanazawa Shinise Memorial Hall — Maeda Tosanokami-ke Shiryokan Museum
Myoryuji (Ninja Temple)
Nishi Chaya District: Ninjabuki Museum — Dolls Museum — Kanazawa Nishi Chaya Museum
South of Kenrokuen: Ishiura Shrine — 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art — Ishikawa Prefectural Museum of Art — Kanazawa Nakamura Memorial Museum — National Crafts Museum — Ishikawa Prefectural History Museum — Kanazawa Noh Museum
Kenrokuen: Seison-kaku — Kanazawa Shrine
Hakuichi Kenrokuen Store
Kanazawa Castle Park
Higashi Chaya District: Geisha House Shima — Kaikaro — Geisha Evenings in Kanazawa
Kanazawa Phonograph Museum
Kanazawa Yasue Gold Leaf Museum
How to get to/around Kanazawa
Join Jason and Paul as they discuss various announcements and current events!
Season 5 Start Date
Patreon
Itinerary Store
Podcast Meetup 2024: Nov 6th, 2024 at 7:00pm at Commune on the rooftop of the Shibuya Parco shopping mall in Tokyo. Take the elevator to the 9th floor and then take the escalator to the roof.
Tourist Ban in Gion
Shohei Ohtani
Akihabara is a unique district in Tokyo, renowned for its many electronics stores and its status as a mecca for otaku culture enthusiasts. Join Jason and Paul as they explore the vibrant streets of Tokyo's iconic "electric town"!
History
Electronics (e.g. Yodobashi Akiba, BicCamera AKIBA)
Arcades (e.g. Namco Akihabara)
Anime Shops (e.g. Akihabara Kotobukiya, Mandarake)
Computer Shops (e.g. Tsukumo PC Honten)
Maid Cafes (e.g. Maidreamin)
Akihabara Dear Stage
Little TGV
Akihabara Gachapon Hall
2k540 Aki-Oka Artisan
Yusha Kobo Keyboard Specialty Shop
Komaki Shokudo
Bars (Game Bar A-Button, Beer Pong Bar Grove, Hitachino Brewing Lab, Low-Non-Bar)
Weird Vending Machine Corner
Karaoke
Kamakura
Mt. Fuji
Tokyo has all sorts of attractions to offer, but venturing outside the bustling city for a day trip can unveil another side of Japan. Join Jason and Paul as they explore the many diverse experiences that can be had just beyond Tokyo’s borders!
Kamakura and Enoshima (Ep72)
Kawagoe (Ep46)
Nikko (Ep80)
Mt. Fuji (Ep10, also mentioned Arakurayama Sengen Park)
Amusement Parks (Ep 94)
Mt. Takao (Ep 119)
Utsunomiya
Hakone
Odawara
Omiya
Yokohama
Chiba
Shizuoka
Mental health issues are part of the human experience, and Japan is not immune to the complexities and struggles that individuals face. Join Jason and Paul as they delve into some of the mental health concerns and social challenges that have gained attention in modern Japan.
History
Suicide
Karoshi
Hikikomori
Kodokushi
Gomi Yashiki
Sapporo as seen from a ferris wheel in Susukino
Miso ramen, a Sapporo specialty
Mount Moiwa, a popular hiking spot in Sapporo
Sapporo, the capital of Hokkaido, is considered by many to be the most attractive city in Japan. As one of the snowiest cities in the world, it is also home to an extremely popular snow festival. Join Jason and Paul as they explore the many things to see and do in Sapporo!
History
Central: Kani Honke — Sapporo Clock Tower — Odori Park — Tanukikoji Shopping Street — Nijo Market — Susukino — Ganso Ramen Yokocho — Sapporo Factory — Sapporo Beer Museum/Beer Garden
Northeast: Moerenuma Park
Southwest: Mount Moiwa
Northwest: Sapporo Crab Market — Shiroi Koibito Park — Sapporo Tiene Ski Resort
Southeast: Historical Village of Hokkaido — Hokkaido Museum
Day Trips: Otaru — Jozankei
Festivals: Snow Festival — Lilac Festival — Yosakoi Soran Festival — Autumn Festival — Christmas Market
Kabukicho, Japan’s most famous entertainment/red-light district
Japan’s red-light districts have evolved over the centuries, but even today they offer a complex tapestry of nightlife, entertainment, and cultural nuances. Join Jason and Paul as they delve into the intriguing history, vibrant present, and often overlooked stories of Japan’s adult entertainment hubs.
History
Types of Establishments
Safety
Shinagawa Station
A timetable of departing trains
Japan’s train stations are so much more than mere transit hubs. They also offer shopping, dining, cutting-edge technology, and a glimpse into national and local cultures! Japan is even home to the busiest train station in the world. Join Jason and Paul as they explore the many facets of these iconic transportation centers.
History
Sights and Sounds
Notable Train Stations
The city of Matsumoto is known for its iconic historic castle as well as for the natural beauty of the surrounding Japanese Alps. Join Jason and Paul as they explore the many things to see and do in Matsumoto!
History
Downtown Area: Matsumoto Castle (and Jokyo Gimin Memorial Museum) — Former Kaichi School — Takagi (Soba Shop) — Matsumoto City Museum — Nawate Street — Nakamachi Street — Matsumoto Timepiece Museum — Matsumoto City Museum of Art — Agatanomori Park
North: Asama Onsen
East: Matsumoto Mingeikan Folk Art Museum
South: Koboyama Kofun — Matsumoto City Archaeological Museum
West: Japan Ukiyo-e Museum — Matsumoto City Rekishinosato
Day Trip: Daio Wasabi Farm
How to get to/around Matsumoto
Not only has rice been a staple food in Japan for millennia, but it is also closely intertwined with their spiritual and cultural traditions. Join Jason and Paul as they explore the myriad ways that rice has shaped and continues to define the essence of Japan!
History
Cultural Significance
Types of Rice
Japan’s Rice Industry
How is Rice Grown?
How to Cook Rice
Traveling is exciting and rewarding, but even the best-laid plans can encounter unexpected bumps along the way. Join Jason and Paul as they discuss how to handle health concerns when you're in Japan. From navigating the healthcare system to finding the right resources, this episode has you covered in case you ever need it!
Emergency Services
Vaccinations
Travel and Health Insurance
Japan’s Medical System
Interview with Ryan Sandlin
The Daihatsu Copen X-Play, a kei convertible sports car
Japan’s automobile industry is world-renowned for its focus on innovation, craftsmanship, and performance. Join Jason and Paul as they explore car culture (and its unique subcultures) in Japan!
History
JDM (Japanese Domestic Market)
Kei Cars
Itasha
Street Racing
Other Subcultures: Kyusha Cars - Kaido Racers - Shakotan - Bosozoku - VIP - Grachan
