A geisha about to begin a taiko performance. The hanging drum is a byou-uchi-daiko and the smaller drum is a shime-daiko.
The most well-known origami model, the paper crane (orizuru).
A full set of samurai armor.
This building in Naha, Okinawa displays some of the elements of traditional architecture. Notice the sliding shouji doors, tatami mats on the floor inside, the veranda (engawa), storm shutters, and the construction method that raises the entire building off of the ground.
A bamboo grove at Hiroshima’s Shukkeien Garden.
Kagami mochi, one of the many decorations traditionally displayed in the home for New Year.
A Christmas tree at a shopping mall in Hiroshima.
Decorative Japanese swords for sale at a shop in Kamakura. (Real functional swords are much more expensive)
An informational panel at the Kawagoe Festival Museum about matsuri floats.
Girls wearing yukata (a light summer kimono) and zori (a type of traditional footwear) at a temple in Kyoto.
20. Kimono
Kimono are traditional Japanese garments that can be worn for many different occasions and with many different types of related accessories. Join Jason and Paul as they explore the world of traditional Japanese fashion!
Topics Covered:
What is a Kimono?
History
How are Kimono Made?
Cost
How to Wear a Kimono
Variations: Yukata — Furisode — Iromuji — Mofuku — Junihitoe
Footwear and Accessories
The remains of a house that was washed away in the tsunami caused by the 2011 Touhoku Earthquake. (Photo taken in Ishinomaki in 2015)
Strong Zero is a type of drink called chuuhai, which is a portmanteau of “shouchuu” and “highball”. Shouchuu is a Japanese distilled drink.
17. Alcohol
Drinking plays an important part in Japanese society. Join Jason and Paul as they explore the world of Japanese alcoholic beverages and drinking culture!
Topics Covered:
History
Drinking Culture: Konpa — Nomikai — Etiquette — Social Impact
Types of Beverages: Nihonshu (Sake) — Beer — Shochu — Chuhai — Umeshu — Wine — Whisky
Where to Drink
16. Ghosts and Monsters (Yurei and Yokai)
Paul in Shibuya on Halloween of 2016.
The crowd goes on forever!
Lots of nice costumes.
Police keeping an eye on things.
15. The Japanese Language
Did you know that the Japanese language uses three distinct writing systems? Join Jason and Paul as they explore the history and complexities of the Japanese language!
Topics Covered:
How is the Japanese Language Structured?
History
Writing Systems: Kanji — Hiragana — Katakana — Romaji
How to Learn Japanese
A row of vending machines in Ikebukuro, Tokyo.
Geisha performing at Kaikaro, a teahouse in Kanazawa.
12. Geisha
Geisha are symbols of Japanese culture, beauty, and femininity. Join Jason and Paul as they discuss the magical "flower and willow world" of geisha!
Topics Covered:
What are Geisha?
History
How to Become a Geisha: Skills/Training — Maiko (Apprentice Geisha) — Appearance
Where to Experience Geisha Culture
A sumo match at a tournament in Fukuoka.
A small sample of the types of foods that can be found at Japanese convenience stores.
8. Convenience Stores
Convenience stores in Japan have everything you could ask for! Join Jason and Paul as they discuss the convenience stores of Japan and why they are among the best in the world.
Topics Covered:
Food: Bread — Onigiri (Rice Balls) — Sandwiches — Bento — Instant Noodles — Sushi — Fruits and Veggies — Hot Foods — Snacks — Beverages
Other Products
Services: ATM — Multi-Use Terminal — Free Wifi — Takuhaibin (Delivery Services)