Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast Just Japan Podcast

We are back and in this cross-over episode we chat with long-time friends of the show, Pee Jay and Sarah. We chat about the geo-location game Munzee. This is a great way to have some outdoor fun when you are traveling or living in Japan. Both Pee Jay and Sarah are long-term expats in the Kansai region and also chat a lot about life in Japan. The three of us also host the "Munzee Maniacs Podcast," and this crossover is episode 99 of that show!

 

Download the MUNZEE app or go to Munzee (dot) com.

Munzee Maniacs Podcast - Apple Podcasts

 

Check out my MAIN show, Supernatural Japan!

 

Supernatural Japan  - Apple Podcasts - -Spotify

 

Get lots of Premium and Exclusive Content and Ad-free Episodes!

Premium membership: @patreon 

Support on: @BuyMeACoffee

 

Tales from Kevin (my expat diary podcast)

 

Connect with Supernatural Japan and Just Japan:

Instagram: @supernaturaljapan

Facebook: @SupernaturalJapan

BlueSky: @MadForMaple

X: @MadForMaple

YouTube: @BusanKevin

Email: supernaturaljapan@gmail.com

 

In Episode 92 of the Just Japan Podcast there's a party! A Christmas Party! Guests Steve Miller of the Asia News Weekly Podcast, Mully of the Mully's Place Podcast and Kathryn and Russ of the Kitty Does Japan YouTube channel join the podcast for the 2nd annual Christmas Party Podcast! Learn about Christmas in Japan and Korea. How do people celebrate the occasion? What do they eat and what do they do? The guests share fun stories about the Holiday Season in Japan and South Korea as well as their favorite Holiday movies and activities.

(Originally published on December 22nd, 2015)

 

 

Listen to Kevin O'Shea NOW in 2025-26:

Supernatural Japan Podcast

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/supernatural-japan/id1616675498

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/35FkGE7Kc9bXFGpt37ZF2y?si=53d4b8b0db9e4223

 

Tales from Kevin Podcast:

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/tales-from-kevin/id1767355563

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/07HXqsUXmFCFLWUJ8RpaKZ?si=ba3d406d9dd3417a

 

 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jlandkev

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/supernaturaljapan

Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/madformaple.bsky.social

X: https://x.com/MadForMaple

Listen to this amazing CLASSIC Christmas episode from December 2016. I chatted with Brian Waters (MyTwoYen) and Jaysan (NapaJapan) about their multi-cultural family traditions in Japan. We talk about Christmas and New Years celebrations in Japan. It was a fun, fun discussion!

You can currently find me over on:

 

Supernatural Japan Podcast:

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/supernatural-japan/id1616675498

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/35FkGE7Kc9bXFGpt37ZF2y?si=816c24a94cc246a1

 

Tales from Kevin Podcast:

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/tales-from-kevin/id1767355563

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/07HXqsUXmFCFLWUJ8RpaKZ?si=9869d036d9274413

 

 

Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/jlandkev

BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/madformaple.bsky.social

X: https://x.com/MadForMaple

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BusanKevin

Supernatural Japan is a spine-chilling podcast that explores Japan's darkest legends, real-life hauntings, mysterious urban myths, and forgotten folklore. Hosted by educator and storyteller Kevin O'Shea, each episode takes listeners deep into ghost stories, haunted places, yokai, and true crime cases with supernatural twists—all set against the backdrop of Japan's rich cultural history. Whether you're fascinated by yurei, yokai, or eerie unsolved mysteries, Supernatural Japan is your gateway to the country's most terrifying tales. Subscribe now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you listen to podcasts and step into the shadows of Japan.

 

Apple Podcasts

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/supernatural-japan/id1616675498

 

Spotify

https://open.spotify.com/show/35FkGE7Kc9bXFGpt37ZF2y?si=fc445519da524a95

 

Amazon Music

https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/dedb712b-9800-4759-8158-e4af590710b4/supernatural-japan

In the latest episode of the Just Japan Podcast, I welcome back returning guest Kurt Bell, better known as Softypapa on YouTube. When we last spoke, Kurt was in the U.S. with his Japanese wife, preparing for retirement and planning a move back to Japan. A year later, he's made that dream a reality—retired, relocated, and now living in Japan full-time. Kurt shares his fascinating journey of purchasing and settling into an akiya (an abandoned house) in rural Japan and offers insights into his new lifestyle as a retired American resident. We also dive into his ongoing work as a well-known YouTube content creator and how his move has influenced his creative output and daily life.

 

Follow Kurt's adventures:

https://www.youtube.com/@softypapa

 

 

Support the podcast (Help fund the creation of new episodes):

https://buymeacoffee.com/busankevin

 

LISTEN to my other podcast, Supernatural Japan:

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/supernatural-japan/id1616675498

 

 

Follow the podcast: 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jlandkev

Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/madformaple.bsky.social

X: https://x.com/MadForMaple

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61551918404228&mibextid=LQQJ4d

Email: supernaturaljapan@gmail.com 

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BusanKevin

 

NEW podcast companion blogs! https://justjapanstuff.com/

Do you love true crime, ghost stories, and paranormal mysteries? Then you'll love Supernatural Japan  — where Japan's most chilling true crime cases collide with ancient folklore and eerie urban legends.

Each episode uncovers a new mystery: unsolved murders with ghostly connections, haunted places locals fear to enter, bizarre disappearances, and encounters with yōkai — Japan's mysterious spirits and creatures. It's part true crime, part supernatural, and completely addictive.

Whether you're fascinated by Japanese culture, love horror stories, or just want something seriously spooky in your podcast queue — Supernatural Japan has a story for you.

Perfect for fans of Morbid, Lore, and Unexplained, this show blends immersive storytelling, sound design, and deep research to bring Japan's darkest tales to life.

Search Supernatural Japan Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music or anywhere you listen — and hit follow before something follows you. 👻

 

Podcast website.

 

The Hibagon (ヒバゴン) is the Japanese equivalent of the North American Bigfoot. Many believe that it inhabits the areas around Mount Hiba in Hiroshima Prefecture, Japan. In this episode, we talk to Canadian author Kyle Brink. He has been researching Hibagon for many years and is based in Hiroshima Prefecture. He is the author of the book, "Hibagon: Japanese Bigfoot." If you are a cryptids and Bigfoot lore fan, you'll love this episode! 

 

Kyle's book:https://www.amazon.com/Hibagon-Japanese-Bigfoot-Kyle-Brink/dp/B08X6DX7KS

Kyle's YouTube channel with loads of Hibagon videos: https://www.youtube.com/@brinkbooks3492

 

Support the podcast:

https://buymeacoffee.com/busankevin

 

Follow the podcast: 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/supernaturaljapan

Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/madformaple.bsky.social

X: https://x.com/MadForMaple

 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61551918404228&mibextid=LQQJ4d

Email: supernaturaljapan@gmail.com 

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BusanKevin

Website: https://supernaturaljapan.buzzsprout.com

FOLLOW the Supernatural Japan Podcast:

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/supernatural-japan/id1616675498

Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/dedb712b-9800-4759-8158-e4af590710b4/supernatural-japan

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/35FkGE7Kc9bXFGpt37ZF2y?si=bd412e905adf45cc

 

 

Follow the podcast: 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/supernaturaljapan

Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/madformaple.bsky.social

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61551918404228&mibextid=LQQJ4d

Email: supernaturaljapan@gmail.com 

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BusanKevin

Website: https://supernaturaljapan.buzzsprout.com

Want to get away from the crush of tourists in Japan and see a less known side? If so, then Phillip Jackson is your guy! Phillip is the author of many books, including Hidden Paths Kyoto, Paranormal Kansai, and Paranormal Japan. He's a tour guide, writer, musician, and someone who can tell some tremendous historical tales about Japan.

 

Find Phillip Jackson online:

https://www.hiddenpathskyoto.com/

 

Support the podcast:

https://buymeacoffee.com/busankevin

 

 

 

Follow Kevin O'Shea (host) on social media:

BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/madformaple.bsky.social

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jlandkev/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/justjapanstuff/

X: https://x.com/MadForMaple

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BusanKevin

In this episode, we revisit Evan and Dani Benton from the Benton Homestead on Omishima Island in Ehime, Japan. They have purchased two akiya (abandoned homes) and turned one into the Benton Guesthouse. We first met them in episode 219. They have done so much since then. We chatted about their farming on the island, how their abandoned home renovations are going, beekeeping, appearing on American television and much more. This is another great episode for anyone dreaming of buying and renovating an old home in Japan. 

 

You can learn about everything Evan and Dani are doing here:

https://bentonhomestead.com/

 

Support the podcast:

https://buymeacoffee.com/busankevin

 

 

Follow me on Social Media: 

Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/madformaple.bsky.social

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/justjapanstuff/

X: https://twitter.com/MadForMaple

Instagram (travel and life): https://instagram.com/jlandkev

 

Tony R. Vega joined us once again. Tony is an American podcaster and Japan content creator featured in episode 208. Last year, he walked the entire 500 km of the Old Tokaido Road, and this Fall, he walked from Kyoto to Yamaguchi Prefecture. That's a fantastic feat for anyone, but even more so for Tony since he is legally blind. Listen to his amazing story and listen to his podcast, Japan Station.

Tony online:

https://japankyo.com

Tony on X:

https://twitter.com/thevegatony

Japan Station Podcast:

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/japan-station-a-podcast-about-japan-by-japankyo-com/id1440454968

 

Support the podcast:

https://buymeacoffee.com/busankevin

 

Follow Kevin O'Shea (host) on social media:

BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/madformaple.bsky.social

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jlandkev/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/justjapanstuff/

X: https://x.com/MadForMaple

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BusanKevin

Have you heard about the famed 88 Temples Pilgrimage on Shikoku? In this episode, host Kevin O'Shea chats with his friend Kevin Tarpey. Kevin is based in rural Japan and is a walker and explorer. 2 years ago, he walked the entire 88 Temples Pilgrimage on Shikoku. Kevin is a born storyteller and adventurer and shares his amazing story with all of us. If you have a taste for adventure in Japan, then this is the episode for you!

 

Follow Kevin Tarpey on Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/thegreenhoof

Support the podcast:

https://buymeacoffee.com/busankevin

 

Follow Kevin O'Shea (host) on social media:

BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/madformaple.bsky.social

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jlandkev/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/justjapanstuff/

X: https://x.com/MadForMaple

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BusanKevin

In this episode Kevin chats with Tokyo-based entrepreneur, Joseph Tame. Joseph tells the story of how he created the successful media and creative agency, Wild Tame. Joseph also shares his amazing stories of being a pioneering live-streaming pioneer in Japan. He has live-streamed the Tokyo Marathon for 16 years and is well-known for his running art. Enjoy his awesome story!

 

Support the podcast:

https://buymeacoffee.com/busankevin

 

Follow Joseph online:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tamegoeswild/

Wild Tame: https://www.wildta.me/

 

 

Follow Kevin on social media:

BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/madformaple.bsky.social

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jlandkev/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/justjapanstuff/

X: https://x.com/MadForMaple

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BusanKevin

In this episode we chat with Karune Walker, the host of the "Train-ing Japan" Podcast. This is the ultimate podcast for all fans of trains in Japan. If you are into trains and traveling around Japan via train, you'll want to listen to this conversation and follow the "Train-ing Japan" podcast!

Support the podcast:

https://buymeacoffee.com/busankevin

 

Train-ing Japan on Apple Podcasts:

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/train-ing-in-japan/id1568907812

 

Train-ing Japan on Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/show/2T3yBnUqfsGmXbxjcKZq67

 

 

 

 

Follow the Just Japan Podcast and Kevin:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/justjapanstuff

X: https://twitter.com/MadForMaple

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jlandkev

https://www.instagram.com/japannightscenes

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/@BusanKevin

Meet John from the OHAZASSU podcast! John hails from Australia but has been based in Nagoya for some time. Kevin and John chat about life in Japan and his fantastic podcast that brings everyday practical advice about life in Japan.

 

Support the podcast:

https://buymeacoffee.com/busankevin

 

Ohazassu Podcast (Linktree):

https://linktr.ee/ohazassu

 

 

 

Listen to "Tales from Kevin":

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/tales-from-kevin/id1767355563

 

 

Follow the Just Japan Podcast and Kevin:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/justjapanstuff

X: https://twitter.com/MadForMaple

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jlandkev

https://www.instagram.com/japannightscenes

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BusanKevin

Tales From Kevin - a new storytelling podcast 

• Hosted by Kevin O'Shea. A mix of stories, thoughts, and experiences from a life lived in many places. Whimsical tales from a man from Canada with fingers and toes in many countries. -

 

Tale 1: I Got a Monkey Golden Shower

A life currently lived in Malaysia can mean lots of different wildlife encounters. Kevin introduces the podcast and discusses having an endangered monkey release its bladder from above. Things get grim, but somewhat funny all at the same time. Welcome to the new storytelling podcast.

 

FOLLOW my new show!

Apple Podcasts:

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/tales-from-kevin/id1767355563

 

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/show/07HXqsUXmFCFLWUJ8RpaKZ

 

Amazon Music:

https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/ac207b88-dbb6-4ca6-8e9e-34a1ecbf5289/tales-from-kevin

 

In this episode we get to hang out with Okayama-based Dave Olson. This inspiring Canadian shares many amazing stories, insights, and worldly experiences. From his adventures as a youth to mushroom farming in Tottori, to internet startups in Vancouver, he's done so much. Now Dave lives in Okayama with his beautiful family and shares his experiences and thoughts on personal archeology and much more with all of us.

 

Support the podcast:

https://buymeacoffee.com/busankevin

 

You'll all want to follow Dave and see what he's up to next!

https://daveostory.com/

 

 

 

Follow the Just Japan Podcast and Kevin:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/justjapanstuff

X: https://twitter.com/MadForMaple

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jlandkev

https://www.instagram.com/japannightscenes

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BusanKevin

 

Nature Talks Podcast:

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/nature-talks-podcast/id1579829311

Douglas Brooks is an American researcher, writer, teacher, and boatbuilder. He is passionate about preserving the disappearing tradition of Japanese boatbuilding. He has written 6 books on the topic and his book, "Japanese Wooden Boatbuilding" is the only comprehensive guide on the topic. He has apprenticed under 9 Japanese masters and shares his knowledge with others around the world. Douglas recently was hired as a consultant on the Hulu/Disney/FX miniseries "Shogun" to help construct boats and supply boats for the series. Douglas chats with Kevin about his story, preserving these disappearing Japanese traditions, and what listeners can do also to preserve disappearing traditions in Japan.

 

 

Photo credit (podcast art): Brett Simison

See everything Douglas is doing:

http://douglasbrooksboatbuilding.com/

Follow Douglas on Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/douglasbrooksboatbuilding

Boat building blog:

http://blog.douglasbrooksboatbuilding.com/

 

 

 

 

Follow the Just Japan Podcast and Kevin:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/justjapanstuff

X: https://twitter.com/MadForMaple

Email: justjapanpodcast@gmail.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jlandkev

https://www.instagram.com/japannightscenes

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BusanKevin

Nature Talks Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast

In this episode, Kevin chats with a returning guest and friend of the show, Kansai Pee Jay. Pee Jay talks about his life-long interest in Japanese castles and how he travels throughout Japan visiting them. He has some wonderful stories to share about his experiences at Himeji castle back in the early 1990s and becoming one of the first foreign tour guides in Japan! You'll enjoy Pee Jay's stories and learning more about some of the iconic castles in Japan.

 

Follow Pee Jay on Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/kansai_pee_jay

 

 

Follow the Just Japan Podcast and Kevin:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/justjapanstuff

Twitter (X): https://twitter.com/MadForMaple

Email: justjapanpodcast@gmail.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jlandkev

https://www.instagram.com/japannightscenes

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/@BusanKevin

In this episode, Kevin welcomes Riki Ohkanda (PaprikaGirl) back on the podcast. Riki talks about how to cope with the summer heat in Tokyo and some life updates. They chat about breaking out of the expat bubble in Japan to find more happiness in life, health, and fitness as well as the recent news all about overtourism in Japan.

 

Follow Riki on Twitter (X):

https://x.com/PaprikaGirl_JP

 

 

Check out my other podcast on YouTube (Nature Talks Podcast):

https://www.youtube.com/@naturetalkspod

 

 

Follow the Just Japan Podcast and Kevin:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/justjapanstuff

X: https://twitter.com/MadForMaple

Email: justjapanpodcast@gmail.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jlandkev

https://www.instagram.com/japannightscenes

 

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/@BusanKevin

 

My new Instagram about my health journey…from bad to good!

https://www.instagram.com/turnaround_strength

Just Japan Podcast - 222: Saving Trees and Environmental Activism in Tokyo

In this episode, Kevin chats with Tokyo-based marketing specialist and consultant, Rochelle Kopp. Rochelle has spent more than 30 years living in Japan and working in the business world. She is also a passionate environmental activist focusing on saving trees and parks in the Tokyo area. In a time when we are feeling the burn or climate change more than ever, we need trees, but many in Japan don't think that way! Listen to Rochelle's story and how you can help protect trees across Japan.

 

Follow Rochelle Kopp on Twitter (X):

https://x.com/JapanIntercult

LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/rochellekopp/

 

Change.org Petitions to save trees in Japan:

 

Jingu Stadium

Zenpukuji

Hibiya Park

Osaka City

Kobe's Oji Park

 

More links on the podcast's Facebook page:

https://www.facebook.com/justjapanstuff

 

 

Follow the Just Japan Podcast and Kevin:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/justjapanstuff

X: https://twitter.com/MadForMaple

Email: justjapanpodcast@gmail.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jlandkev

https://www.instagram.com/japannightscenes

In this episode, host Kevin O'Shea chats with returning guest Brian Waters. When Brian moved to Japan permanently from the United States his children were 5 and 3 years old. Now his oldest is in university and his youngest near completing high school. Brian reflects on his experiences as an American parent watching his children navigate the Japanese public school system.

 

Follow Brian on Twitter (X): https://twitter.com/MyTwoYen

 

Follow the Just Japan Podcast and Kevin:

 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/justjapanstuff

X: https://twitter.com/MadForMaple

Email: justjapanpodcast@gmail.com 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jlandkev

https://www.instagram.com/japannightscenes

 

In this episode of the podcast, Kevin Chats with Joseph Fowler, host of the Ishikawa: Summit to Seas Podcast. They talk about Joe's Japan origin story.  He talks about his podcast as well as about the J-Pops Podcast. Joe also talks about becoming a new father in Japan and buying a house there. Learn about life in a part of Japan you don't hear about so often.

 

Ishikawa: Summit to Seas Podcast:

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ishikawa-summit-to-sea/id1528933719

 

 

J-Pops Podcast:

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-j-pops-attempting-parenting-in-japan/id1595489571

 

 

Follow Joe on Twitter:

https://twitter.com/KumaYama100

 

Instagram (Joe's Father):

https://www.instagram.com/john_fowler_art

 

 

 

 

 

 

Follow the Just Japan Podcast and Kevin:

 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/justjapanstuff

 

X: https://twitter.com/MadForMaple

 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jlandkev

https://www.instagram.com/japannightscenes

In this episode, Kevin chats with Evan and Dani Benton who have renovated two Akiya (empty homes) on the island of Omishima in Ehime Prefecture in Japan. They have a wonderful website and YouTube channel called "Benton Homestead" that documents their journey. They have renovated these two buildings, turning one into a guesthouse and the other, their home. They are also diving into the world of natural agriculture and bee keeping. They discuss the process of buying and renovating these old homes as well as how they were able to get visas to stay in Japan to complete this project.

Benton Homestead:

https://bentonhomestead.com/

Follow their YouTube channel:

https://www.youtube.com/@bentonhomestead

 

 

 

Follow the Just Japan Podcast and Kevin:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/justjapanstuff

X: https://twitter.com/MadForMaple

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jlandkev

https://www.instagram.com/japannightscenes

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@busankevin

 

My new Instagram about my health journey…from bad to good!

https://www.instagram.com/turnaround_strength

In this episode, Kevin chats with Emily Bell about returning to Japan. Emily was born in Santa Barbara, but at the age of 2 moved to Shizuoka, Japan. She grew up in rural Japan and at the age of 14 returned to the United States. She faced challenges such as lacking English fluency and starting high school in a very different culture, but she persevered! She just graduated from university and is about to move to Tokyo. She decided to accept a job offer and will soon start a new adventure, this time as an adult and instead of the Japanese countryside, in the biggest of big cities! Listen to her fascinating story!

 

Support the podcast:

https://buymeacoffee.com/busankevin

 

BTW….Emily's father is Kurt Bell, aka "Softypapa." He was our best on episode 217!

 

You can learn a lot about Emily's adventures by following her father, Kurt Bell:

X: https://twitter.com/softypapa

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/softypapa

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LylesBrother

 

 

Follow the Just Japan Podcast and Kevin:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/justjapanstuff

X: https://twitter.com/MadForMaple

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jlandkev

https://www.instagram.com/japannightscenes

 

 

My new Instagram about my health journey…from bad to good!

https://www.instagram.com/turnaround_strength

In this episode, Kevin chats with one of the original Japan YouTubers (jvloggers), Kurt Bell, aka, Softypapa. In the early days of YouTube, Kurt made fascinating videos about his life in rural Shizuoka and brought us along on countless hiking adventures in the deep forests and mountains. We explored abandoned villages and learned about long forgotten shines with Kurt. After 10 years in Japan, he returned to America. After 10 years in California, Kurt is on the verge of retirement and will return to Japan to continue his rural adventures. Learn more about his amazing story in this episode!

 

Kurt on YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/@softypapa

 

Kurt on "X':

https://twitter.com/softypapa

 

 

 

Socials:

Follow the Podcast on social media:

Facebook: http://facebook.com/justjapanstuff

 

Twitter: https://twitter.com/MadForMaple

 

Instagram (travel and life): 

https://instagram.com/jlandkev

https://instagram.com/japannightscenes

 

YouTube: http://youtube.com/@busankevin

In this Episode, Kevin chats with Tokyo-based entrepreneur, Gregorio. Gregorio is an American who came to Japan in 2008 as a university student and worked for years working in various industries. During the pandemic, he started Monsta Sweets, a cookie company! He made cookies and sold them at pop-ups in Tokyo. He has now opened a full-time brick-and-mortar "Monsta Sweets" shop in Tokyo. Listen to his fascinating story about starting a business from scratch in Tokyo.

Follow Monsta Sweets:

X: https://twitter.com/Monsta_Sweets

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/monsta_sweets

 

 

Check out our website!

https://justjapanstuff.com/

 

Sign up for the FREE Just Japan Podcast newsletter if you'd like to receive it!

https://mailchi.mp/12afe98c5d57/just-japan-podcast

 

Support the Podcasts on Patreon:

patreon.com/JustJapanPodcast97

 

 

Socials:

Follow the Podcast on social media:

Facebook: http://facebook.com/justjapanstuff

X: https://twitter.com/MadForMaple

Instagram (travel and life): https://instagram.com/japannightscenes

YouTube: http://youtube.com/@busankevin

 

In this episode, Kevin chats with Japanese pop culture expert, Matt Alt. Matt is a Tokyo-based writer who writes extensively about how Japanese pop culture has impacted the world. He has written books about Japanese folklore with his wife, Hiroko Yoda, and worked extensively as a translator and localization expert for the Japanese gaming industry. They talk about Japanese toys, pop culture, folklore, and a lot more. Matt also talks about his latest book, "Pure Invention" all about many of the Japanese inventions that had huge impacts on the rest of the world.

Sign up for the FREE Just Japan Podcast newsletter:

https://mailchi.mp/12afe98c5d57/just-japan-podcast

 

Support my podcasts and other creative endeavors on Patreon:

patreon.com/JustJapanPodcast97

 

Follow all the things Matt Alt does:

https://www.mattalt.com/

 

Check out Matt Alt's books on Amazon:

https://www.amazon.com/Books-Matt-Alt/s?rh=n%3A283155%2Cp_27%3AMatt+Alt

 

 

Follow the Podcast on social media:

Facebook: http://facebook.com/justjapanstuff

Twitter: https://twitter.com/MadForMaple

Instagram (travel and life): https://instagram.com/jlandkev

Japan Night Scenes: https://www.instagram.com/japannightscenes

Email: justjapanpodcast@gmail.com

In this episode Kevin shares an amazing conversation with James Reynolds, a British extreme weather and natural events filmmaker based in Tokyo, Japan. James has been traveling the world for almost 20 years filming volcanoes, typhoons, and the aftermaths of earthquakes and tsunamis. James has arguably the most exciting job in Japan! His job stalled during the cover years, but he is now back in the full swing of things. Kevin later shares some listener requests tales of odd transportation events in Japan. This interview originally aired on the Just Asia Podcast in 2023.

Sign up for the FREE Just Japan Podcast newsletter:

https://mailchi.mp/12afe98c5d57/just-japan-podcast

 

James on X: https://twitter.com/EarthUncutTV

EarthuncutTV on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/earthuncuttv

 

 

Support the Podcasts on Patreon:

patreon.com/JustJapanPodcast97

 

Follow the Podcast on social media:

Facebook: http://facebook.com/justjapanstuff

Twitter: https://twitter.com/MadForMaple

Instagram (travel and life): https://instagram.com/jlandkev

Japan Night Scenes: https://www.instagram.com/japannightscenes

YouTube: http://youtube.com/@busankevin

In this episode of the podcast, Kevin O'Shea chats with his friend Kevin Tarpey about exploring rural Japan on foot. Kevin Tarpey lives in rural Shimane Prefecture and is an epic hiker and walker. He has taken many walking adventures such as Shikoku's 88 Temples Pilgrimage and he writes a regular column for a local newspaper about his walking adventures in Japan. Kevin sees Japan in a way many expats and travelers do.

Sign up for the FREE Just Japan Podcast newsletter:

https://mailchi.mp/12afe98c5d57/just-japan-podcast

 

Follow Kevin Tarpey's rural Japan adventurers:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thegreenhoof

 

 

Support the Podcasts on Patreon:

patreon.com/JustJapanPodcast97

 

 

Follow the Podcast on social media:

 

Facebook: http://facebook.com/justjapanstuff

 

Twitter: https://twitter.com/MadForMaple

 

Instagram (Japanese night shots and toys): https://www.instagram.com/japannightscenes

Instagram (travel and life): https://instagram.com/jlandkev

 

YouTube: http://youtube.com/@busankevin

Kevin chats with Hiroshima-based Sustainable Travel Consultant, JJ Walsh, in this episode. Joy has lived in Japan since the 1990s and is an entrepreneur, content creator, consultant, and very inspirational person. She helps businesses as well as individuals lead more sustainable lives in Japan. They talk about her "Japan origin story" and the Seek Sustainable Podcast. They also chat about being a travel guide in Japan and buying and renovating old homes.

Sign up for the FREE Just Japan Podcast newsletter:

https://mailchi.mp/12afe98c5d57/just-japan-podcast

 

Seek Sustainable Podcast:

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/seek-sustainable-japan/id1520832272

Joy on YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbjRdeieOLGes008y_I9y5Q

 

 

Support the Podcasts on Patreon:

patreon.com/JustJapanPodcast97

 

 

Follow the Podcast on social media:

Facebook: http://facebook.com/justjapanstuff

Twitter: https://twitter.com/MadForMaple

Instagram (travel and life): https://instagram.com/jlandkev

YouTube: http://youtube.com/@busankevin

In this episode we chat with Jason, the man behind napajapan.com. NapaJapan is one of the best places online to buy Japanese snacks, candy, drinks, and other delicious treats. Jason first appeared on the podcast in 2015. We catch up and learn all about how Jason started his snack business in Japan, how he weathered the cover storm as an online retailer, and a lot more. There's also a big treat, if you use the code "justjapan20" at checkout, you can get a 20% discount on an order from napajapan.com! ALSO….support our NEW Patreon campaign!

Sign up for the FREE Just Japan Podcast newsletter:

https://mailchi.mp/12afe98c5d57/just-japan-podcast

 

Do some amazing Japanese snack shopping today:

https://www.napajapan.com/

(Discount code: justjapan20)

 

NapaJapan on Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/napajapan/

NapaJapan on facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/napaJapan/

 

 

SUPPORT the new pattern campaign:

patreon.com/JustJapanPodcast97

 

 

 

Follow the Podcast on social media:

Facebook: http://facebook.com/justjapanstuff

Twitter: https://twitter.com/MadForMaple

Instagram (travel and life): https://instagram.com/jlandkev

YouTube: http://youtube.com/@busankevin

TikTok: @busankevin2

In this episode, we are back with Jim Mullins, an expat resident of Japan for 33 years. We catch up on his life lately and chat about inflation in Japan. Is it as noticeable as in other countries? Mully also tells us about what he's been up to lately. The conversation even turns to shaving and shaving supplies in Japan!

Sign up for the FREE Just Japan Podcast newsletter:

https://mailchi.mp/12afe98c5d57/just-japan-podcast

 

Follow the Podcast on social media:

Facebook: http://facebook.com/justjapanstuff

Twitter: https://twitter.com/MadForMaple

Instagram (travel and life): https://instagram.com/jlandkev

YouTube: http://youtube.com/@busankevin

TikTok: @busankevin2

We are back and we chatted with Pee Jay about teaching at universities in Japan. Pee Jay talked about this topic in episode 27 in August of 2014. A lot has changed since then and we learn a little about this long-term expat in Japan and how to get a job teaching at universities in Japan. What is it like to find work? What are the conditions like once you start working in a university? If you are considering working in Japan, this might be the episode for you!

Sign up for the FREE Just Japan Podcast newsletter:

https://mailchi.mp/12afe98c5d57/just-japan-podcast

 

Follow Pee Jay on Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/kansai_pee_jay/⁠

 

Follow the Podcast on social media:

Facebook: http://facebook.com/justjapanstuff

Twitter: https://twitter.com/MadForMaple

Instagram (travel and life): https://instagram.com/jlandkev

YouTube: http://youtube.com/@busankevin

TikTok: @busankevin2

In the Fall of 2023, Tony Dot Vega walked the entire Tokaido Road. He walked 500 km from Kyoto to Tokyo. This would be an amazing and challenging adventure for anyone, but Tony's journey was even more incredible because he did it sol and he's legally blind. Listen to Tony's amazing Japan story. Kevin chats with Tony about how he learned to speak Japanese, how he originally came to Japan, and how he took on the Tokaido Road Challenge and shared it with the world on social media.

Sign up for the FREE Just Japan Podcast newsletter:

https://mailchi.mp/12afe98c5d57/just-japan-podcast

 

Tony online:

JapanKyo.com

https://japankyo.com

 

The Tokaido Challenge YouTube Playlist:

https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL7ALB_S1KyWunL6kIbGu_Vtmswe1qxlHq

 

Tony on X:

https://twitter.com/thevegatony

 

Check out the episode of Japan Station where Tony interviewed me:

https://www.japankyo.com/2021/02/japan-china-covid19-experience/

 

 

 

Follow the Podcast on social media:

 

Facebook: http://facebook.com/justjapanstuff

 

Twitter: https://twitter.com/MadForMaple

 

Instagram (travel and life): https://instagram.com/jlandkev

 

YouTube: http://youtube.com/@busankevin

We are back with another fantastic conversation about Japan. Kevin chats with Dave in Osaka, one of the original Japan live-streamers. If you're interested in seeing Maiko in Kyoto or festivals throughout Japan, Dave's YouTube and Twitter are the places to be. He started back in the days of Periscope and continues to create great content with amazing cultural and travel connections.

Sign up for the FREE Just Japan Podcast newsletter:

https://mailchi.mp/12afe98c5d57/just-japan-podcast

 

Follow Dave in Osaka:

Twitter: https://twitter.com/DaveInOsaka

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DaveinOsaka

 

 

Follow the Podcast on social media:

Facebook: http://facebook.com/justjapanstuff

Twitter: https://twitter.com/MadForMaple

Instagram (travel and life): https://instagram.com/jlandkev

YouTube: http://youtube.com/@busankevin

Have you ever heard of Chikara Ishi 力石 or Strength Stones in Japan? Probably not. Kevin chats with Osaka-based strength athlete, David Dunlap about the history of stone lifting in Japan. Now, an almost lost sport, Chikara Ishi was once renowned and revered around Japan. Today,  strength athletes such as David and the World's Strongest Man, Martins Licis are trying to put the sport back on the map in Japan. Learn more about this fascinating piece of Japanese history.

Sign up for the FREE Just Japan Podcast newsletter:

https://mailchi.mp/12afe98c5d57/just-japan-podcast

 

Follow David on YouTube (Nobei Power):

https://www.youtube.com/@nonbei_power

 

Follow David on Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/nonbei.power

 

 

Check out the Strength Unknown video with Martins Licis and David:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3CEjK9haKSQ

 

 

Follow the Podcast on social media:

Facebook: http://facebook.com/justjapanstuff

Twitter: https://twitter.com/MadForMaple

Instagram (travel and life): https://instagram.com/jlandkev

YouTube: http://youtube.com/@busankevin

In this episode, Kevin chats with Jim Mullins, aka, Mully. Jim has called Japan home for 32 years and appeared on the Just Japan Podcast more than 20 times. Kevin and Jim catch up on life and talk about Jim's years as a content creator in Japan. They also chat about what has kept Mully in Japan for so long and even about his Podcast, the Mully's Place Podcast.

Sign up for the FREE Just Japan Podcast newsletter:

https://mailchi.mp/12afe98c5d57/just-japan-podcast

 

Check out the Supernatural Japan Podcast:

https://podcasts.apple.com/jp/podcast/supernatural-japan/id1616675498

 

 

Just Japan Podcast:

Facebook:

http://facebook.com/justjapanstuff

Twitter (X): https://twitter.com/MadForMaple

Bluesky: @madformaple

Instagram (travel and life): https://instagram.com/jlandkev

YouTube: http://youtube.com/@busankevin

 

Email: justjapanpodcast@gmail.com

Kevin has a fantastic chat with television producer and Japan-based personality, Riki Ohkanda. Riki has a passion for celebrating the Japanese kimono and other aspects of traditional living in Japan. She can often be seen on Twitter sharing her impressive kimono knowledge and fashion and was recently featured on an NHK World television program about the iconic traveler, Isabella Bird. She talks about how she arrived in Japan, became interested in the culture, and uses Twitter (X) to share positivity and a love of Japan. (This interview was originally part of the Just Asia Podcast in Spring 2023)

Sign up for the FREE Just Japan Podcast newsletter:

https://mailchi.mp/12afe98c5d57/just-japan-podcast

 

Riki Ohkanda (Paprika Girl) on X:

https://twitter.com/PaprikaGirl_JP

 

Just Japan Podcast:

Facebook: http://facebook.com/justjapanstuff

Twitter (X): https://twitter.com/MadForMaple

Bluesky: @madformaple

Instagram (travel and life): https://instagram.com/jlandkev

YouTube: http://youtube.com/@busankevin

Email: justjapanpodcast@gmail.com

We are back! Are you still out there listening? In this episode, we chat with Casey Bean, an American living in Ishikawa Prefecture 石川県. He talks about how he found his way to Japan, life in a slower-paced area of Japan, and his podcasts, The Bean Pod, and Ishikawa Summit to Sea. We also talk about forest gardening, chickens, and recording original music, and Casey advises listeners seeking the slow life in rural Japan.

 

Sign up for the FREE Just Japan Podcast newsletter:

https://mailchi.mp/12afe98c5d57/just-japan-podcast

 

 

Just Japan Podcast:

Facebook:

http://facebook.com/justjapanstuff

Twitter: https://twitter.com/MadForMaple

Instagram (travel and life): https://instagram.com/jlandkev

Instagram (nature stuff): https://instagram.com/shizenwildlife

YouTube: http://youtube.com/@busankevin

 

 

Casey's Links:

Twitter: https://twitter.com/TBeanpod

The Bean Pod: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-beanpod-podcast/id1466025228

Ishikawa Summit to Sea: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/ishikawa-summit-to-sea/id1528933719

 

Casey's original music:

Apple Music:

https://music.apple.com/jp/artist/casey-bean/1651202917?l=en

 

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/1S3zduDWaH7xzmwbuP3t8p?si=C52ld3tPTlmsp83-ewfImQ&nd=1

 

Bandcamp Album Links:

https://caseybean.bandcamp.com/album/black-white

https://caseybean.bandcamp.com/album/before-dark

International educator and podcaster, Kevin O'Shea brings you some interesting takes on a long life living abroad in Asia. The Just Asia Podcast profiles fascinating expats living across Asia doing amazing things. He talks to people in Japan, South Korea, China, Malaysia and more. Listen to their stories and be inspired by the lives they lead.

 

Apple Podcasts:

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/just-asia/id1674193428

 

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/show/2qBwXhrGswVKwd7HlwwP8E

 

Amazon Music:

https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/daa3e5dd-7705-459a-8232-cc887772e096/just-asia

 

Stitcher:

https://www.stitcher.com/show/1071669

 

Google Podcasts:

https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9hbmNob3IuZm0vcy9kYjViZjUwMC9wb2RjYXN0L3Jzcw

 

 

 

© Kevin O'Shea 2023

International educator and podcaster, Kevin O'Shea brings you some interesting takes on a long life living abroad in Asia. From the quirky facets of life in Japan to living under covid restrictions in China. Kevin talks about food, travel, raising 3rd culture kids, gardening, teaching at international schools, and a lot more. International living has a lot of ups and sometimes downs. Next stop…Malaysia for even more food, travel, and life adventures!

 

Apple Podcasts:

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/just-asia/id1674193428

 

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/show/2qBwXhrGswVKwd7HlwwP8E

It's been almost 3 years and we are back! Just Japan Podcast host stops by to say, "Hello" with his son Kai. They give some life updates and talk about his new podcast! The Supernatural Japan Podcast has a little something for every Japan enthusiast! SUBSCRIBE today!

 

Supernatural Japan on Apple Podcasts:

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/supernatural-japan/id1616675498

 

Google Podcasts:

https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9hbmNob3IuZm0vcy84ZGE0YTI0NC9wb2RjYXN0L3Jzcw

 

Anchor:

https://anchor.fm/supernatural-japan

 

The Supernatural Japan podcast is now on Amazon Music!

https://music.amazon.com/.../dedb712b.../supernatural-japan

 

Stitcher:

https://www.stitcher.com/show/supernatural-japan

 

Follow Supernatural Japan on Instagram:

http://instagram.com/supernaturaljapan

 

JOIN the Supernatural Japan Facebook Group:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/supernaturaljapan

After several years working as a reporter for NHK news, returning guest, Adam Walsh will return to Canada to continue his journalism career there. Adam talks about some of the highlights of his time covering Japan as a journalist and what its like to live and work Japan.

Home of the podcast:
https://justjapanstuff.com/

Twitter: @madformaple

Facebook:
http://facebook.com/justjapanstuff

200 episodes! Past guests join Kevin to chat about 200 episodes of the Just Japan Podcast! Join in the fun! Trivia and silliness are the order of the day!

Podcast page:
http://justjapanstuff.com

Twitter: @madformaple

Facebook:
http://facebook.com/justjapanstuff

What's the deal with Japanese whiskey? Why has it become so famous? Is it really that good? In this episode of the JJP, we chat with writer Brian Ashcraft about the history of whiskey in Japan. We also chat about his work with Kotaku, the Japan Times and the books he's written.

Sign up for the FREE Just Japan Podcast newsletter:

https://mailchi.mp/12afe98c5d57/just-japan-podcast

 

Home of the podcast:

https://justjapanstuff.com/

 

Twitter: @madformaple

 

Facebook:

http://facebook.com/justjapanstuff

What does it take to get a university job in Japan? This week we chat with university instructor PeeJay. He talks about the qualifications you need to work in Japanese universities and how to find work. Get ready, episode 200 is coming soon!

 

Sign up for the FREE Just Japan Podcast newsletter:

https://mailchi.mp/12afe98c5d57/just-japan-podcast

 

Podcast page:
http://justjapanstuff.com

Twitter: @madformaple

Facebook:
http://facebook.com/justjapanstuff

Like Japanese food? Wanna see lots of it on YouTube? This week, in Episode 197, we chat with Eric Berg, aka, Ericsurf6 of YouTube fame! This Japan-based food vlogger has seen a great deal of success over the years on YouTube and his channel is going stronger than ever. If you like Japan and food, then you'll enjoy this interview!   Podcast page: http://justjapanstuff.com   Twitter: @madformaple   Facebook: http://facebook.com/justjapanstuff

This week on the Just Japan Podcast we have a special treat. You get to listen to two chats Kevin had with regular guest PeeJay from 10 years ago! These chats are from their old collaborative YouTube channel, Two Beers in Asia. Next week, Kevin will be back with a regular and up-to-date interview!

Podcast page:
http://justjapanstuff.com

Twitter: @madformaple

Facebook:
http://facebook.com/justjapanstuff

In this episode, we chat with Kyoto, Japan-based filmmaker, Felicity Tillack about her full-length film, Impossible to Imagine which is set in Kyoto, Japan. We discuss this exciting project as well as other fascinating creative projects she has worked on in the past.

Podcast page:
http://justjapanstuff.com

Twitter: @madformaple

Facebook:
http://facebook.com/justjapanstuff

In Episode 194, Kevin catches up with long time friends of the show, Andrew Higgins and Mully! They catch up and chat about what they are currently doing in Japan. It's been awhile and we're happy to be back.

Home of the podcast: http://justjapanstuff.com

Twitter: @madformaple

New Podcast:
Making Better Teachers Podcast
http://makingbetterteachers.com