Explore every episode of the podcast Sightseeing Japan
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 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 | |||
| 125. Train Stations | 29 Jan 2024 | 01:22:25 | |
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. Topics Covered: History Sights and Sounds Notable Train Stations | |||
| 41. Tanuki | 13 Apr 2020 | 00:39:17 | |
The tanuki is a "raccoon dog" native to Japan and closely related to foxes. They have a long history in Japanese folklore as a sort of trickster youkai. Join Jason and Paul as they explore the role of tanuki in Japanese culture! | |||
| 40. Ramen | 06 Apr 2020 | 00:48:49 | |
Ramen is a very popular meal in Japan but did you know that it was actually adapted from Chinese noodles and wasn't even known as "ramen" until the 1950s? Join Jason and Paul as they explore the delicious world of ramen! | |||
| Coronavirus Update | 30 Mar 2020 | 00:05:28 | |
Jason and Paul provide an update on the coronavirus situation in Japan and its impact on the 2020 Olympics. | |||
| 39. Baseball | 30 Mar 2020 | 00:57:03 | |
Baseball was introduced to Japan in 1872 and has since become one of the country's most popular sports. Join Jason and Paul as they explore the exciting world of baseball in Japan! | |||
| 38. Drums (Taiko) | 23 Mar 2020 | 00:47:07 | |
Taiko, or Japanese drums, have been used throughout Japanese history for all sorts of purposes, such as religious events, the military, traditional theatre, and more. They even play a role in Japanese folklore. Join Jason and Paul as they explore the fascination world of taiko! | |||
| 37. The Kyushu Region | 16 Mar 2020 | 00:45:26 | |
The Kyushu Region is the southernmost region of Japan and stretches from the main island of Kyushu down to Okinawa. Join Jason and Paul as they discuss the many sights to see and things to do in the Kyushu Region! Topics Covered: Mount Aso Kitakyushu: Kawachi Wisteria Garden — Kokura Castle — Kitakyushu Manga Museum — Aruaru City — TOTO Museum Fukuoka: Yatai (Food Stalls) — Castle Ruins — Ohori Park — Sumo Tournament — Canal City Hakata (Shopping Mall) — Shofukuji Temple — Uminonakamichi Seaside Park — Seaside Momochi — Hakata Machiya Folk Museum — Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine — Kyushu National Museum Oita: Beppu Onsen — Takasaki Mountain — Usuki Nagasaki: Gunkanjima (Battleship Island) — Nagasaki Peace Park — Mount Inasayama — Glover Garden — Suwa Shrine — Dejima — Huis Ten Bosch Kumamoto: Kumamoto Castle — Suizenji Jojuen Garden Miyazaki: Ikime Burial Mounds — Udo Shrine — Kaeda Valley — Obi Castle Town — Takachiho Gorge Kagoshima: Yakushima Okinawa: Naha — Kokusaidori Street — Shuri Castle — Former Japanese Navy Underground HQ — Fukushuen Garden — Churaumi Aquarium — Kerama Islands — Yaeyama Islands (Taketomi Island, Ishigaki Island, Iriomote Island) | |||
| 36. 2020 Summer Olympics | 09 Mar 2020 | 00:45:59 | |
The Olympic Games are the world's foremost sports competition and this year they are being held in Tokyo, Japan. Join Jason and Paul as they discuss the 2020 Summer Olympics!
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| 35. Origami | 02 Mar 2020 | 00:34:02 | |
The art of paper folding known as origami has become a popular activity all over the world. One of the most well-known origami models is that of the paper crane. Join Jason and Paul as they explore the world of origami! | |||
| 34. Samurai | 24 Feb 2020 | 00:46:44 | |
Samurai are famous around the world for their impressive weapons and armor, their ferocity on the battlefield, and their code of honor. Join Jason and Paul as they explore the world of the samurai! | |||
| 33. Tea | 17 Feb 2020 | 00:34:52 | |
Tea has a long history in Japan and is now the country's most commonly drunk beverage. Join Jason and Paul as they explore the many varieties of Japanese tea! | |||
| 124. The City of Matsumoto | 15 Jan 2024 | 01:16:33 | |
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! Topics Covered: 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 | |||
| 32. Architecture | 10 Feb 2020 | 00:38:04 | |
Traditional Japanese architecture is famous around the world for its minimalistic beauty and harmony with nature. Join Jason and Paul as they explore the unique qualities of Japanese architecture! | |||
| 31. The Hokkaido Region | 03 Feb 2020 | 00:32:34 | |
Hokkaido is the second largest main island of Japan as well as the largest and northernmost prefecture. Join Jason and Paul as they explore the nature, food, and culture of the Hokkaido region! | |||
| 30. Cosplay Cafes and Animal Cafes | 27 Jan 2020 | 00:48:38 | |
Japan is home to all sorts of interesting cafes, from cat cafes to maid cafes and beyond. Join Jason and Paul as they explore the many types of experiences you can have at Japanese cafes! | |||
| 29. 20 Travel Tips | 20 Jan 2020 | 00:33:38 | |
Join Jason and Paul as they discuss 20 helpful travel tips! | |||
| 28. Trip Recap (Part 2) | 13 Jan 2020 | 00:34:39 | |
Join Jason and Paul as they discuss Jason’s recent two-week trip to Japan! | |||
| 27. Trip Recap (Part 1) | 13 Jan 2020 | 00:44:44 | |
Join Jason and Paul as they discuss Jason's recent two-week trip to Japan! | |||
| Gachapon Giveaway! | 08 Jan 2020 | 00:06:31 | |
Sightseeing Japan is excited to announce the Gachapon Giveaway! The first ten listeners to review the podcast will receive a free gachapon! To enter, follow these two simple steps: (1) Submit a review of Sightseeing Japan to any podcast provider where it is available. (2) Send an email to feedback [at] sightseeingjapanpodcast.com. Be sure to include (i) your review, (ii) the name of the podcast provider where you submitted your review, and (iii) your mailing address. | |||
| 26. Bamboo | 06 Jan 2020 | 00:42:23 | |
Bamboo is an extremely versatile plant and a symbol of Japanese culture. It can be used as a material for construction and handicrafts and can even be eaten! Join Jason and Paul as they explore the fascinating world of bamboo! | |||
| 25. New Year | 30 Dec 2019 | 00:39:42 | |
New Year is the most important holiday in Japan and is celebrated with various unique customs. Join Jason and Paul as they explore the traditions of the Japanese New Year! | |||
| 24. Christmas | 23 Dec 2019 | 00:23:03 | |
| 123. Rice | 01 Jan 2024 | 01:22:33 | |
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! Topics Covered: History Cultural Significance Types of Rice Japan’s Rice Industry How is Rice Grown? How to Cook Rice | |||
| 23. Swords | 16 Dec 2019 | 00:43:40 | |
Japanese swords are considered by many to be the best cutting weapons in world military history. Join Jason and Paul as they explore the reasons why Japanese swords are famous around the world! | |||
| 22. Festivals (Matsuri) | 09 Dec 2019 | 00:43:54 | |
Matsuri are traditional festivals that have been held in Japan for centuries. Join Jason and Paul as they explore the history of Japanese festivals as well as the delicious food and wild events that can be found there! | |||
| 21. Sushi | 02 Dec 2019 | 00:42:29 | |
Sushi is a popular Japanese dish that has spread throughout the world. Join Jason and Paul as they explore the delicious world of sushi! Topics Covered: What is Sushi? History Types: Makizushi — Nigirizushi — Chirashizushi — Inarizushi — Old Styles (Oshizushi/Hakozushi/Narezushi) — Uramaki Ingredients: Sushimeshi (Rice) — Nori (Seaweed) — Toppings — Condiments Presentation | |||
| 20. Kimono | 25 Nov 2019 | 00:37:53 | |
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 | |||
| 19. Earthquakes | 18 Nov 2019 | 00:46:19 | |
The Japanese archipelago is frequently subjected to earthquakes. Join Jason and Paul as they explore the ways in which Japan has adapted to withstand the effects of earthquakes! Topics Covered: What is an Earthquake? History Preparedness in Japan How to Survive | |||
| 18. Castles | 11 Nov 2019 | 00:39:38 | |
Japanese castles are strategic defensive fortresses, but they were also built to be visually striking and impressive. Join Jason and Paul as they explore the history, architecture, and defensive capabilities of Japanese castles! Topics Covered: History Architecture: Location — Main Keep (Tenshukaku) — Walls/Moats/Baileys — Yagura (Guard Towers) — Gates How to Attack a Japanese Castle Visiting Castles Today | |||
| 17. Alcohol | 04 Nov 2019 | 00:46:47 | |
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) | 28 Oct 2019 | 00:50:46 | |
Japanese folklore is full of supernatural beings and spirits. Join Jason and Paul for this special Halloween episode as they explore the world of yurei and yokai, Japanese ghosts and monsters! Topics Covered: History What are Yokai? What are Yurei? Halloween in Japan | |||
| 15. The Japanese Language | 21 Oct 2019 | 00:49:07 | |
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 | |||
| 14. Vending Machines | 14 Oct 2019 | 00:39:54 | |
Japan has a higher density of vending machines than any other country in the world. Join Jason and Paul as they explore the world of automated purchases! Topics Covered: Why are Vending Machines so Popular in Japan? History What They Sell How to Pay Technology | |||
| 122. What to Do if You Get Sick in Japan | 18 Dec 2023 | 01:22:34 | |
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! Topics Covered: Emergency Services Vaccinations Travel and Health Insurance Japan’s Medical System Interview with Ryan Sandlin Vaccine Recommendations (CDC Website) Guidebook for when you are feeling ill (JNTO PDF) Search Medical Institutions (JNTO Website) | |||
| 13. Japanese Gardens | 07 Oct 2019 | 00:38:44 | |
Japanese gardens are famous around the world for their ability to convey peace, harmony, and tranquility through the art of landscaping. Join Jason and Paul as they explore the ancient art of Japanese gardening! Topics Covered: History Elements of Japanese Gardens: Water — Stone — Bridges — Fish — Lanterns — Water Basins — Plants — Islands Aesthetic Principles: Miniaturization — Concealment — Borrowed Scenery — Asymmetry | |||
| 12. Geisha | 30 Sep 2019 | 00:46:47 | |
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 | |||
| 11. Sumo | 23 Sep 2019 | 00:47:02 | |
Sumo is an ancient martial art and the national sport of Japan. Join Jason and Paul as they explore the wild world of sumo wrestling! Topics Covered: History Sumo in Modern Japan How to Become a Rikishi (Sumo Wrestler) Sumo Match: Dohyo (Platform) — Attire — Rules — Prizes | |||
| 10. Mount Fuji | 16 Sep 2019 | 00:32:53 | |
Mount Fuji is a symbol of Japan and is one of the most famous volcanoes in the world. It even ties into the origins of the Shinto religion! Join Jason and Paul as they explore this beloved landmark. Topics Covered: Cultural Significance How to Climb What to Bring What Will You See? Aokigahara (Suicide Forest) | |||
| 9. Temples and Shrines | 16 Sep 2019 | 00:47:45 | |
Temples and shrines are everywhere in Japan, but did you know that they are two distinct types of structures belonging to different religions? Join Jason and Paul as they discuss the significance of temples and shrines throughout the history of Japan! Topics Covered: Buddhism Shinto How is Religion Practiced History Buddhist Temples: Etiquette — Gardens — Jizo — Cemeteries — Omikuji (Fortune Telling) Shinto Shrines: Torii Gate — Chozuya (Purification Basin) — Honden (Main Hall) — Ema (Wooden Plaques) — Amulets — Goshuincho (Stamp Book) | |||
| 8. Convenience Stores | 16 Sep 2019 | 00:44:20 | |
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) | |||
| 7. Food | 16 Sep 2019 | 01:05:56 | |
Japan is known for having incredible cuisine! Join Jason and Paul as they discuss all kinds of Japanese food and where to find it! From fugu to okonomiyaki, there’s something for everyone! Topics Covered: Rice Traditional Food Tsukemono (Pickles) Sushi Noodles: Soba — Udon — Ramen Okonomiyaki Bento (Boxed Lunch) Tofu Yakitori (Skewered Chicken) Yakiniku (Grilled Meat) Curry Kaiseki Kobe Beef Shabu Shabu Tonkatsu (Pork Cutlet) Fugu (Pufferfish) Beverages: Tea — Beer — Sake — Whisky — Wine Eating Vegan Where to Eat: Restaurants — Konbini (Convenience Stores) — Izakaya (Pubs) — Tabehodai/Nomihodai (All You Can Eat/Drink) — Fast Food — Fish Markets — Tachinomi (Standing Bars) — Yatai (Food Stalls) — Beer/Sake Breweries — Teishokuya (Diner) — Kaitenzushi (Conveyor Belt Sushi) | |||
| 6. Transportation | 16 Sep 2019 | 00:34:10 | |
There are many options for transportation in Japan! Join Jason and Paul as they discuss the various modes of transportation: Walking, driving, trains, and buses! Topics Covered: Walking Car Bullet Trains (Shinkansen) JR Trains Private Train Lines Buses Paying for Public Transportation: JR Pass — IC Cards | |||
| 5. Hotels | 16 Sep 2019 | 00:33:53 | |
Did you know that the oldest hotel in the world is in Japan? Join Jason and Paul as they discuss the different types of accommodations available in Japan! They cover all price ranges and styles: Internet cafes, capsule hotels, hostels, business hotels, luxury hotels, as well as traditional Japanese options like ryokan, minshuku, and shukubo! They even mention love hotels… Topics Covered: Manga Cafes/Internet Cafes Hostels Capsule Hotels Business Hotels Luxury Hotels Traditional Accommodations: Ryokan (Inn)— Minshuku (Bed and Breakfast) — Shukubo (Temple Lodging) Love Hotels How to Book | |||
| 4. Airports | 16 Sep 2019 | 00:26:25 | |
Join Jason and Paul as they discuss the airports of Japan! This episode focuses on the history of Haneda and Narita airports and what they are like today. Topics Covered: Main International Airports: Narita Int’l Airport — Haneda Airport Regional Airports: Kansai Int’l Airport (Osaka) — Chubu Centrair Int’l Airport (Nagoya) — New Chitose Airport (Sapporo) — Naha Airport (Okinawa) — Fukuoka Airport (Kyushu) History Narita Int’l Airport: Transportation to/from (Narita Express, JR Sobu Line, Keisei Skyliner, Keisei Limited Express) — Entertainment — Lodging Haneda Airport: Entertainment — Lodging Tips: Getting Through Customs — Security — Leaving the Airport | |||
| 121. Car Culture | 04 Dec 2023 | 01:21:30 | |
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! Topics Covered: History JDM (Japanese Domestic Market) Kei Cars Itasha Street Racing Other Subcultures: Kyusha Cars - Kaido Racers - Shakotan - Bosozoku - VIP - Grachan | |||
| 3. The Kansai Region | 16 Sep 2019 | 00:37:59 | |
The Kansai region is the second most populated and second most visited area of Japan. Join Jason and Paul as they explore Osaka, Kyoto, Nara, and other amazing cities in Kansai! Topics Covered: History Culture: Food — Sake — Baseball Kyoto: Culture/Arts/History — Temples/Shrines — Festivals — Fushimi Sake District — Arashiyama (Bamboo Grove/Monkey Park) — Imperial Palace — Nijo Castle — Theatre/Geisha/Tea Ceremony — Philosopher’s Path Osaka: Food (Okonomiyaki/Takoyaki) — Museums/Theaters/Shopping/Dining — Osaka Castle — Dotonbori — Universal Studios — Cup Noodle Museum — Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan Nara: Friendly Deer in Nara Park — Todaiji — Kasuga Taisha Kobe: Kobe Beef — Sake Breweries — Akashi-Kaikyo Bridge — Arima Onsen — Shin-Kobe Ropeway — Kitano Himeji: Himeji Castle — Kokoen Garden — Temples/Museums/Aquarium Koyasan: Temple Lodging — Hiking Ise: Ise Shrines — Ise-Shima National Park Uji: Byodoin Temple — Green Tea — Taihoan Tea House Kinosaki: Onsen (Hot Spring Baths) Yoshino: Cherry Blossoms — Temples/Shrines Asago: Takeda Castle Ruins Asuka and Sakurai: Archaeology | |||
| 2. The Kanto Region | 16 Sep 2019 | 00:37:28 | |
The Kanto region is the most populated and most visited part of Japan. Join Jason and Paul as they explore the greater Tokyo area and the fun things to do there! Topics Covered: What is Kanto? Kanto Fureai Trail Tokyo: Harajuku (Fashion) — Akihabara (Electronics/Anime/Manga) — Asakusa (Museums/Temples/Gardens) — Shinjuku/Shibuya (Nightlife) — Odaiba (Malls/Entertainment/Convention Center) — Roppongi Hills (High-End Shopping) — Ueno (Zoo/Ameyokocho) Yokohama: Maritime Culture — Cup Noodle Museum — Cosmo World — Kirin Beer Factory — Chinatown Kawasaki: Kanamara Matsuri (Festival of the Steel Phallus) — Kawasaki Daishi — Koreatown — Anata no Warehouse — Nihon Minkaen Open Air Museum — Doraemon Museum Kamakura: Kotoku-in (Great Buddha) — Beaches/Hiking — Enoshima Island — Enoden (Electric Railway) Nikko: Toshogu Shrine — Nikko National Park — Edo Wonderland (Theme Park) Kawagoe: Warehouse District (Historical Architecture) — Matsuri Museum — Candy Alley (Kashiya Yokocho) — Sweet Potatoes Hakone: Views of Mt. Fuji — Hot Springs — Odawara Castle — Hakone Checkpoint — Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park Saitama: Railway Museum — Omiya Bonsai Village — Saitama Super Arena Chiba: Surfing — Otaku Shops — Tokyo Disneyland — Tokyo DisneySea — Oyumino Fireworks Festival | |||
| 1. Planning | 16 Sep 2019 | 00:50:27 | |
Have you ever thought about going to Japan? Don’t know where to start? Join Jason and Paul as they discuss all the things to consider when planning a trip to Japan! Topics Covered: Time of year Passport Booking a flight Booking hotels Pocket Wifi (Affiliate link) JR Pass (Affiliate link) Events Restaurants Money Language Etiquette Packing | |||