Explore every episode of the podcast Sightseeing Japan
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 173. Rating Popular Hikes | 02 Nov 2026 | 01:32:14 | |
Japan is home to countless incredible hiking trails, from famous mountain routes to scenic walks through forests and along the coast. Join Jason and Paul as they rank some of the most popular hikes they’ve done in Japan and share what they loved, what surprised them, and how the trails stack up against each other. Topics Covered: Takaosan - Omotesando Trail (Tokyo) Lake Chuzenji - Mt. Hangetsu Trail (Nikko) Magome to Tsumago - Nakasendo (Japanese Alps) Yabuhara to Naraijuku - Nakasendo (Japanese Alps) Kamikochi - Riverbank Trails (Japanese Alps) Aokigahara - Ice Caves Trail (Mt. Fuji) Yamadera (Yamagata) | |||
| 172. 2026 Halloween Special - More Yokai | 19 Oct 2026 | 01:06:20 | |
Japanese folklore can involve some very strange yokai, and not all of them are quite as well known as kappa or oni. Join Jason and Paul as they discuss some of the weirdest and most entertaining yokai they’ve come across. Topics Covered: Suppon no Yurei Futakuchi Onna Haradashi Ubume Zenihebi Hone Onna Uondo Kage Onna Shichinin Misaki | |||
| 171. The Ainu | 05 Oct 2026 | 01:28:27 | |
The Ainu are the Indigenous people of northern Japan, with a unique culture, language, and history that have long been intertwined with the island of Hokkaido. Join Jason and Paul as they explore Ainu traditions and beliefs, their relationship with nature, the history of Japanese assimilation and discrimination, and the ongoing revival of Ainu culture today. Topics Covered: History Language and Identity Society and Daily Life Clothing and Material Culture Cuisine Beliefs and Traditions Cultural Revival Where to Learn More | |||
| 95. Idols (Rerun) | 21 Sep 2026 | 01:26:50 | |
During the break between seasons, Sightseeing Japan is revisiting some favorite episodes from the past.
In Japan, the term “idol” refers to attractive young entertainers who primarily sing, act, dance, and model, among other things. Join Jason and Paul as they explore this unique aspect of modern Japanese society! | |||
| 107. Kappa (Rerun) | 07 Sep 2026 | 01:20:05 | |
During the break between seasons, Sightseeing Japan is revisiting some favorite episodes from the past. Kappa are dangerous reptilian water creatures from Japanese mythology. Join Jason and Paul as they explore the fascinating folklore behind this odd, cucumber-loving yokai! Topics Covered: History What Do Kappa Look Like? What Do Kappa Do?: Hobbies — Diet — Violence — Shirikodama How to Defeat a Kappa Public Perception Are Kappa Real? Folktales Where to Find Kappa in Japan: Kaiyodo Kappa Museum (Shimanto, Kochi Prefecture) — Sogenji Temple (Asakusa, Tokyo) — Kappabuchi Pool (Tono, Iwate Prefecture) | |||
| 78. Whisky (Rerun) | 24 Aug 2026 | 00:55:36 | |
During the break between seasons, Sightseeing Japan is revisiting some favorite episodes from the past.
Japan built its whisky industry based on techniques imported from Scotland and they now produce some of the most sought-after whisky in the world. Join Jason and Paul as they explore the delicious world of Japanese whisky! | |||
| 170. Shinto | 10 Aug 2026 | 01:23:22 | |
Long before the arrival of Buddhism, Japan's spiritual traditions revolved around nature, ancestors, and countless kami. Join Jason and Paul as they take a closer look at the history and beliefs of Shinto. Topics Covered: History Kami Purification Rites of Passage Shrines Festivals The Creation Myth | |||
| 169. Forest Bathing (Shinrin-Yoku) | 27 Jul 2026 | 01:09:05 | |
Can spending time in the forest actually improve your health and well-being? Join Jason and Paul as they take a closer look at the Japanese practice of forest bathing and why it has gained attention around the world. Topics Covered: History The Practice The Science How/Where to Participate | |||
| 168. School Life | 13 Jul 2026 | 01:15:00 | |
What is it actually like to attend school in Japan? Join Jason and Paul as they examine everything from daily routines and school culture to uniforms, exams, and extracurricular activities. Topics Covered: Structure of Education System The Average School Day The School Year | |||
| 167. The City of Nagasaki | 29 Jun 2026 | 01:22:42 | |
From hidden Christian history to international trade and atomic tragedy, Nagasaki has one of the most unique stories in Japan. Join Jason and Paul as they explore the history, culture, and modern atmosphere of this fascinating port city. Topics Covered: History Peace Park Nagasaki / Hypocenter Park / Atomic Bomb Museum Urakami Cathedral Sanno Shrine One-Legged Torii Gate Suwa Shrine Nagasaki Museum of History & Culture Megane Bridge Kofukuji Sofukuji Nagasaki Shinchi Chinatown Dejima Nagasaki Koshibyo Confucius Shrine and Historical Museum of China Oura Cathedral Glover Garden Mt. Inasa Huis Ten Bosch Gunkanjima (Hashima Island) Festivals: Lantern Festival — Nagasaki Kunchi Local Specialties: Castella — Champon — Sara Udon — Toruko Rice How to Get To/Around Nagasaki | |||
| 166. Camping | 15 Jun 2026 | 01:05:10 | |
From lakeside campsites to mountain forests, Japan offers some incredible places to reconnect with nature. Join Jason and Paul as they explore the culture, scenery, and practical side of camping in Japan. Topics Covered: Is Camping Popular in Japan? When to Camp What are Campgrounds Like in Japan? Types of Camping Best Places to Camp Gear What to Eat Etiquette and Rules | |||
| 165. Themed Bars | 01 Jun 2026 | 01:14:42 | |
Japan’s nightlife is about more than just izakayas and whiskey bars. Join Jason and Paul as they dive into the weird, immersive, and unforgettable world of themed bars in Japan! Topics Covered: Science Bar INCUBATOR Deathmatch in Hell 8bit Cafe (and Game Bar A-Button) Record Bar Analog The Whales of August Planetarium Bar Muscle Girls Kiha (Train Bar) Kaiju Sakaba Shimbashi Axe Throwing Bar Hunters Bar Taishu Shusen Terumae Dogenzaka Church Bunny Bars | |||
| 164. Why is Japan's Crime Rate So Low? | 18 May 2026 | 01:21:11 | |
Japan is often cited as having one of the lowest crime rates in the world, but what’s really behind that reputation? Join Jason and Paul as they explore the cultural, social, and systemic factors that help keep crime low in Japan. Topics Covered: Social Cohesion Broken Windows Theory Economic Factors Legislation Koban and Community Policing Judicial System Underreporting Recent Trends | |||
| 163. 2026 Trip Recap (Part 3) | 04 May 2026 | 02:06:30 | |
Jason and Paul recently returned home from a trip to Japan. Join them as they discuss their itinerary and recount their third week of sightseeing! Topics Covered: Sendai: Zuihoden — Sendai City Museum — Sendai Castle Ruins — Osaki Hachimangu Shrine — Sendai Mediatheque — Sunmall Ichibancho Shopping Arcade Yamagata: Risshakuji (Yamadera) — Zao Onsen Matsushima: Ojima — Kanrantei Tea House — Sightseeing Cruise — Zuiganji — Entsuin — Date Masamune Historical Museum — Fukuura Island — Matsushima Retro Museum — Matsushima Fish Market Sendai: Earthquake Heritage Arahama Elementary School — Daikannon — Rinnouji — Kirin Beer Factory Tokyo: teamLab Planets — Small Worlds — Kokyo Gaien National Garden | |||
| 162. 2026 Trip Recap (Part 2) | 20 Apr 2026 | 01:31:25 | |
Jason and Paul recently returned home from a trip to Japan. Join them as they discuss their itinerary and recount their second week of sightseeing! Topics Covered: Otaru: Otaru Music Box Museum — Denuki Koji — Stained Glass Museum — Snow Light Path Festival Bibai Asahikawa: Asahikawa Winter Festival — VOCALO Bar Calc — Kawamura Kaneto Ainu Memorial Museum Biei: Biei Shrine — Four Seasons Tower — Town of Hills Folk Museum Misora Abashiri: Ice Breaker Aurora — Ryuhyo Glass Museum — Abashiri City Museum — Abashiri City Folk Museum — Abashiri-Jinja — Abashiri Prison Museum Sendai: Tomizawa Site — AER Observation Terrace | |||
| 161. 2026 Trip Recap (Part 1) | 06 Apr 2026 | 01:29:34 | |
Jason and Paul recently returned home from a trip to Japan. Join them as they discuss their itinerary and recount their first week of sightseeing! Topics Covered: Kamakura: Tsurugaoka Hachimangu — Komachi Street — Hokokuji — Hatsune Antiques — Roast Beef Ono Hakodate: Uni Murakami — Morning Market — Kanemori Red Brick Warehouse — Hakodate Gokoku Shrine — Motomachi — City Museum of Northern Peoples — Lucky Pierrot — Mt. Hakodate — Goryokaku — Okushiba Soup Curry Noboribetsu: Jigokudani Sapporo: Sapporo Snow Festival — Tanukikoji Shopping Street — Tsudome — Sapporo Beer Museum — Sapporo Factory — Nijo Market — Norbesa Ferris Wheel | |||
| 160. The Town of Hakone | 09 Feb 2026 | 01:02:51 | |
Famous for its onsen, museums, and Fuji views, Hakone has long been a retreat from city life. Join Jason and Paul as they discuss how to experience Hakone and what sets it apart from other destinations. Topics Covered: History Hakone-Yumoto Ryokan and Onsen Sightseeing Train (Tozan Railway) Hakone Kowakien Yunessun Hakone Open-Air Museum Owakudani Pirate Ship Hakone Checkpoint Best View of Fuji Hakone Shrine How to get to/around Hakone | |||
| 159. Cycling Routes | 26 Jan 2026 | 01:18:46 | |
Designated national cycle routes are part of Japan’s push to make cycling more accessible for travelers. Join Jason and Paul as they break down the routes, the scenery, and what cyclists can expect along the way. Topics Covered: What is a “National Cycle Route”? Shimanami Kaido Biwa-Ichi Pacific Cycling Road Toyama Bay Cycling Route Tsukuba-Kasumigaura Ring-Ring Road Tokapuchi400 Tips for a Successful Ride | |||
| 158. Pro Wrestling | 12 Jan 2026 | 01:08:51 | |
Japanese pro wrestling has carved out its own distinct identity, blending athleticism, storytelling, and a passionate fan culture. Join Jason and Paul as they explore the history, styles, and stars that make puroresu so unique. Topics Covered: What is Japanese Pro Wrestling? History How Does Puroresu Work? Major Promotions Controversy How to Attend | |||
| 157. Service Culture | 29 Dec 2025 | 01:14:58 | |
Japan’s service culture sets a global standard, blending efficiency, politeness, and surprising little touches of care. Join Jason and Paul as they dive into the roots of omotenashi and how it shapes everyday experiences. Topics Covered: What is Omotenashi? History Keigo Examples of Omotenashi The Dark Side of Customer Service | |||
| 156. Cosplay | 15 Dec 2025 | 01:26:11 | |
From anime conventions to the streets of Akihabara, cosplay has become a vibrant part of Japan’s cultural scene. Join Jason and Paul as they dive into how it all started and what it means today. Topics Covered: History How to Cosplay Where to Cosplay Are There Rules? Controversies Where to See Cosplay Podcast Meetup 2026: Saturday Feb 7th, 2026 at 6:00pm under the Nikka Whisky Sign in Susukino, Sapporo. | |||
| 155. Soybeans | 01 Dec 2025 | 01:26:35 | |
Soybeans are at the heart of Japanese cuisine, found in everything from tofu and miso to soy sauce and natto. Join Jason and Paul as they explore how this humble bean shaped Japan’s food, culture, and history! Topics Covered: History Japan’s Soybean Industry How Soybeans are Grown How Soybeans are Consumed in Japan: Tofu — Miso — Soy Sauce — Natto — Edamame — Soy Milk — Yuba — Kinako — Kuromame Types of Soybeans Health Benefits Where to get Soy Products Podcast Meetup 2026: Saturday Feb 7th, 2026 at 6:00pm under the Nikka Whisky Sign in Susukino, Sapporo. | |||
| 154. Souvenirs | 17 Nov 2025 | 01:33:50 | |
Trying to decide what to bring home from Japan? Join Jason and Paul as they talk about the best souvenirs to commemorate your trip—from classic keepsakes to unique finds you won’t see anywhere else. Topics Covered: Traditional: Chopsticks — Ceramics — Teaware — Furoshiki — Tenugui — Traditional Clothing — Fans (Sensu/Uchiwa) — Daruma — Kokeshi Dolls — Maneki Neko — Omamori — Origami — Incense Modern: Clothing — Stationery — Anime Merch — Bento Box — Knives — Railway Merch — Electronics Collectibles: Gachapon — Goshuincho — Eki Stamps — Manhole Covers — Pins — Mascot Merch Food: KitKats — Tea — Sake — Whisky — Wagashi — Omiyage — Plastic Food Podcast Meetup 2026: Saturday Feb 7th, 2026 at 6:00pm under the Nikka Whisky Sign in Susukino, Sapporo. | |||
| 153. The City of Fukuoka | 03 Nov 2025 | 01:17:56 | |
Fukuoka is a bustling city with a relaxed vibe, known for its history, food, and seaside charm. Join Jason and Paul as they explore what makes this Kyushu hub such a special place to visit! Topics Covered: History Tochoji Temple Kushida Shrine Sumiyoshi Shrine Canal City Nakasu (Nakagawa Yatai) Tenjin Underground Mall Fukuoka Castle Ruins Ohori Park: Japanese Garden — Fukuoka Art Museum Mizuho PayPay Dome Momochi Seaside Park Fukuoka Tower Uminonakamichi Seaside Park Events: Hakata Gion Yamakasa — Hakata Dontaku Local Specialties: Hakata Ramen — Mentaiko — Motsunabe — Mizutaki How to get to/around Fukuoka Podcast Meetup 2026: Saturday Feb 7th, 2026 at 6:00pm under the Nikka Whisky Sign in Susukino, Sapporo. | |||
| 152. 2025 Halloween Special - Hell | 20 Oct 2025 | 01:13:16 | |
Shinto and Buddhism each offer chilling visions of the afterlife, filled with fiery pits, icy rivers, and terrifying judges. Join Jason and Paul as they explore Japan’s many “hells,” from mythic underworlds to real-world sites inspired by them! Topics Covered: Yomi (Shinto Hell) Jigoku (Buddhist Hell) Hellish Places You Can Visit Podcast Meetup 2026: Saturday Feb 7th, 2026 at 6:00pm under the Nikka Whisky Sign in Susukino, Sapporo. | |||
| 151. Cats | 06 Oct 2025 | 01:40:41 | |
Cats have prowled through Japanese history, folklore, and everyday life for centuries, from lucky maneki-neko to street-dwelling strays. Join Jason and Paul as they explore the many roles cats play in Japan’s culture and society!
Topics Covered:
History Cats in Folklore: Maneki-Neko — Nekomata — Bakeneko — Kasha — Neko Musume Cat Culture in Japan: Cats as pets — Cat cafes — Strays — Cat Islands — Famous cats Cat Breeds: Bobtail — Omagari-Neko —Tsushima Leopard Cat — Iriomote Cat Podcast Meetup 2026: Saturday Feb 7th, 2026 at 6:00pm under the Nikka Whisky Sign in Susukino, Sapporo. | |||
| 150. A Brief History of Japan | 11 Aug 2025 | 01:15:26 | |
Japan has a long and fascinating history, filled with emperors, warriors, poets, and rebels. Join Jason and Paul as they walk through the centuries, from creation myths to modern times! Topics Covered: Paleolithic Period (40,000 BC - 13,000 BC) Jomon Period (13,000 BC - 300 BC) Yayoi Period (300 BC - 300 CE) Kofun Period (250 - 538) Yamato Period (250 - 710) Asuka Period (538 - 710) Nara Period (710 - 794) Heian Period (794 - 1185) Kamakura Period (1185 - 1333) Muromachi Period (1333 - 1568) Azuchi-Momoyama Period (1568 - 1600) Edo Period (1600 - 1868) Meiji Period (1868 - 1912) Taisho Period (1912 - 1926) Showa Period (1926 - 1989) Heisei Period (1989 - 2019) Reiwa Period (2019 - Present) | |||
| 149. The City of Hakodate | 28 Jul 2025 | 01:01:01 | |
Located on the southern tip of Hokkaido, Hakodate is a historic port city known for its scenic views, unique history, and fresh seafood. Join Jason and Paul as they explore this gateway to Japan’s northernmost island, from star-shaped forts to morning markets and sparkling nightscapes! Topics Covered: History Morning Market Goryokaku Kanemori Red Brick Warehouse Motomachi Hakodate City Museum of Northern Peoples Mt. Hakodate Yunokawa Onsen Onuma Day Trip Festivals: Hakodate Christmas Fantasy — Illuminations — Hakodate Port Festival — Hakodate Goryokaku Festival How to get to/around Hakodate | |||
| 2026 Podcast Meetup Announcement | 14 Jul 2025 | 00:02:07 | |
Podcast Meetup 2026: Feb 7th, 2026 at 6:00pm in Sapporo, Japan. (Venue TBD) | |||
| 148. Mascots | 14 Jul 2025 | 01:18:48 | |
Japan loves its mascots—from cuddly creatures promoting local towns to bizarre characters representing government agencies. Join Jason and Paul as they explore the wild, whimsical world of yuru-kyara and discover what makes these mascots such a beloved part of Japanese culture! Topics Covered: What are yuru-kyara? What do mascots do? Why are mascots so popular in Japan? Notable mascots: Hikonyan (Hikone) — Kumamon (Kumamoto) — Funassyi (Funabashi) — Melonkuma (Yubari) — Gajiro (Fukusaki) — Nyango Star (Kuroishi) — Annie (Kumamoto University anisakis research) — Matagi no Momiji-chan (Hokkaido) Controversy: Amazoness (Ama City) — Chiitan (Susaki) — Sento-kun (Nara) — Marimokkori (Hokkaido) | |||
| 147. How to Buy a House in Japan (Akiya) | 30 Jun 2025 | 00:56:25 | |
Akiya are abandoned homes found all over Japan—some listed for shockingly low prices. Join Jason and Paul as they explore what it’s like to try to buy one, from navigating the listings to understanding the hidden challenges. Topics Covered: Why are there so many vacant houses? Can foreigners buy akiya? How to search for an akiya How to choose an akiya How to buy an akiya How to renovate an akiya Living in an akiya Is it worth it? | |||
| 146. Kinkakuji and Ginkakuji (The Golden and Silver Pavilions) | 16 Jun 2025 | 01:14:53 | |
Kyoto is full of famous temples, but few are as iconic—or as confusingly named—as Kinkakuji and Ginkakuji. Join Jason and Paul as they dig into the history behind these two landmarks, explore what makes each one special, and explain why the silver Pavilion isn’t actually silver. Topics Covered: History Kinkakuji (The Golden Pavilion) Ginkakuji (The Silver Pavilion) | |||
| 145. Street Food | 02 Jun 2025 | 01:31:59 | |
Japan might be known for its sushi and ramen, but its street food scene is just as exciting. From takoyaki and taiyaki to yakitori and beyond, join Jason and Paul as they dive into some of Japan’s best street eats — and share where to find them!
Topics Covered: Takoyaki Yakitori Ikayaki Taiyaki Yakisoba Yaki-imo Yaki Tomorokoshi Tako Tamago Karaage Kobe Beef Gyoza Korokke Senbei Soft Cream Kakigori Dango Crepes Choco Banana Boba Where to Find Street Food | |||
| 144. Things You'll Miss About Japan (And Some Things You Won't) | 19 May 2025 | 01:18:28 | |
Japan is full of things to love - and a few things that might drive you a little crazy. Join Jason and Paul as they discuss the best and worst aspects of exploring Japan! Topics Covered: Planes Trains Hotels Food Walkable Cities Convenience Politeness Customer Service Bathrooms Onsen History Hiking City Life | |||
| 143. The City of Sendai | 05 May 2025 | 01:25:24 | |
Known as the "City of Trees," Sendai is the largest city in the Tohoku region and a great place to learn about the culture and history of northeastern Honshu. Join Jason and Paul as they explore the city and uncover the story of its founder—a samurai with the coolest nickname ever. Topics Covered: History Loople Sendai: Zuihoden — Sendai City Museum — Sendai Castle — Tohoku University Museum of Natural History — Miyagi Museum of Art — Osaki Hachiman Shrine — Jozenji-dori — Sunmall Ichibancho Shopping District — Date no Gyutan Honpo Other Sights: Sendai City Tomizawa Site Museum — Rinnoji — Dai Kannon — Earthquake Heritage Arahama Elementary School Sendai Port: Umino-Mori Aquarium — Mitsui Outlet Park — Sendai Port Central Park — Kirin Beer Factory Events: Sendai Tanabata Festival — Pageant of Starlight Day Trips: Matsushima Bay — Ishinomaki/Tashirojima (Cat Island) — Zao Kitsune Mura How to get to/around Sendai | |||
| 142. Bugs of Japan | 21 Apr 2025 | 01:32:28 | |
Japan is home to a variety of fascinating — and sometimes terrifying — bugs and insects, from summer’s singing cicadas to giant hornets and everything in between. Join Jason and Paul as they dive into the world of Japan’s bugs—both the beloved and the infamous! Topics Covered: Cultural Significance Famous Bugs: Cicadas — Giant Hornets — Fireflies — Stag Beetles — Rhinoceros Beetles — Silkworms Seasonal Bugs: Butterflies — Dragonflies — Crickets Common Pests: Mosquitoes — Cockroaches — Centipedes — Spiders | |||
| 141. Rating Cultural Experiences | 07 Apr 2025 | 01:29:38 | |
Japan offers a wide range of unique experiences, from cherry blossom viewing and high-speed train rides to exploring ancient temples and sampling the local cuisine. Join Jason and Paul as they rate and discuss some common experiences that visitors are likely to have in Japan! Topics Covered: Konbini Temples and Shrines Hanami Maid Cafes Hiking Eating Shopping Shinkansen Arcades Japanese Gardens | |||
| 140. 2024 Trip Recap (Part 3) | 23 Dec 2024 | 01:59:31 | |
Jason and Paul recently returned home from a trip to Japan. Join them as they discuss their itinerary and recount their third week of sightseeing! Topics Covered: Kamikochi Matsumoto: Matsumoto Castle — Yabuhara to Narai-juku — Matsumoto City Museum — Nawate Shopping Street — Nakamachi Shopping Street — Daio Wasabi Farm — Ishii Miso — Agatanomori Park Omiya: Omiya Bonsai Village — The Railway Museum Tokyo: Shibuya Parco — Rainbow Karaoke Shibuya — THE MUSIC BAR -CAVE SHIBUYA- — Mount Takao — Meiji Jingu Hakone: Yama no Chaya — Owakudani — Hakone Checkpoint Tokyo: Denimio — Akihabara | |||
| 139. 2024 Trip Recap (Part 2) | 09 Dec 2024 | 01:35:07 | |
Jason and Paul recently returned home from a trip to Japan. Join them as they discuss their itinerary and recount their second week of sightseeing! Topics Covered: Nagoya: Coffee House Kako — Nagoya Castle — The Tokugawa Art Museum — SCMAGLEV and Railway Park Inuyama: Showa Alley — Dondenkan (Matsuri Museum) — Inuyama Castle — Urakuen — Momotaro Shrine Hikone: Hikone Castle — Genkyuen — Rakurakuen — Yume Kyobashi Castle Road Omihachiman: Kawara Museum — Hachimanyama Ropeway — Borderless Art Museum NO-MA Yoro: Site of Reversible Destiny Sekigahara: Sekigahara Battlefield Memorial Museum — Sengoku Armor Museum Takayama: Hikaru Museum — Takayama Sky Park — Hida no Sato Open Air Museum — Squirrel Forest Hidayama Wild Grass Nature Garden (Risu no Mori) — Matsuri no Mori Museum — Miyagawa Morning Market — Takayama Showa-kan Museum — Tofu Cuisine Noguchiya — Funasaka Sake Brewery — Hida Takayama Retro Museum | |||
| 138. 2024 Trip Recap (Part 1) | 25 Nov 2024 | 01:15:29 | |
Jason and Paul recently returned home from a trip to Japan. Join them as they discuss their itinerary and recount their first week of sightseeing! Topics Covered: Kumano Kodo: Kii-Tanabe — Guest House Kiyohime — Takijiri Oji — Chikatsuyu — Guest House MUI — Kumano Hongu Taisha — Yunomine Onsen — Minshuku Yunosato Osaka: Shin-Osaka Station — Tempozan Ferris Wheel — Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan — Naniwa Kuishinbo Yokocho — Namba Parks Nagoya: Atsuta Jingu — Shirotori Garden — Osu Shopping Street — Osu Kannon Temple — Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology — Sky Promenade | |||
| 137.5. Folklooooore | 11 Nov 2024 | 01:08:44 | |
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! Topics Covered: Ubazakura Rokurokubi Jiu-Roku-Zakura The Goblin of Adachigahara | |||
| 137. 2024 Halloween Special - Japan's Most Horrific Crimes | 28 Oct 2024 | 01:01:41 | |
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. Topics Covered: 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. | |||
| 136. Day Trips from Kyoto and Osaka | 14 Oct 2024 | 01:10:09 | |
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! Topics Covered: 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. | |||
| 135. Reality TV and Game Shows | 30 Sep 2024 | 01:25:14 | |
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! Topics Covered: 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. | |||
| 134.5. Even More Folklore | 16 Sep 2024 | 01:17:09 | |
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! Topics Covered: 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. | |||
| 134. Sightseeing and Overnight Trains | 02 Sep 2024 | 01:05:07 | |
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! Topics Covered: 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. | |||
| 133. Rating Popular Attractions | 19 Aug 2024 | 01:23:22 | |
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! Topics Covered: 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 | |||
| 132. Natto | 05 Aug 2024 | 00:56:24 | |
Natto is one of Japan’s most divisive foods. Join Jason and Paul as they learn about — and sample — this slimy and smelly delicacy! Topics Covered: History How is Natto Made? Types of Natto How to Eat Natto Health Benefits Taste Test Where to Get Natto | |||
| 131. The City of Kanazawa | 22 Jul 2024 | 01:25:01 | |
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! Topics Covered: Check out our new itinerary store! 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 — 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 | |||
| Announcements and Current Events | 27 May 2024 | 00:40:46 | |
Join Jason and Paul as they discuss various announcements and current events! Topics Covered: 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 | |||