Explore every episode of the podcast Simple Japanese Listening with Meg（めぐ）Smile
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| #72 Umeko Tsuda: A Woman Who Changed Education in Japan // Upper Beginner Japanese Listening | 03 Jan 2026 | 00:20:21 | |
🌸 About this video Welcome to my Japanese listening series for upper beginners! In this episode, you’ll learn about Tsuda Umeko (津田梅子), the woman who founded Japan’s first university for women and quietly changed the future of women’s education in Japan. The story is told in simple Japanese (Upper Beginner / JLPT N4 level) with clear and slow narration. You can practice listening while learning about education, effort, and quiet courage. | This video is perfect for: ・Upper beginner learners (around JLPT N4) ・Learners who enjoy story-based Japanese ・People interested in Japanese history and education ・Anyone who wants to build listening skills with meaningful content | 📚 Level Upper Beginner (JLPT N4) Clear and natural narration using N4-level grammar. Some vocabulary is more advanced, but the story is told slowly and clearly for learners. | 🕒 Chapters 00:00 Opening (オープニング) 00:03 Introduction (イントロダクション) 00:31 Childhood（子どものころ） 01:38 Life in America（アメリカでの生活） 02:32 Difficulties After Returning to Japan（日本に帰ってからの苦労） 03:31 Going to America Again（もう一度、アメリカへ） 04:28 Activities in Japan（日本での活動） 05:09 A School for Women（女性のための学校） 07:19 Question Time (しつもんの時間) 07:40 True / False Quiz Part 1 (〇×クイズ①～⑥) 09:56 True / False Quiz Part 2 (〇×クイズ⑦～⑫) 12:35 Replay Guide (How to Listen / 聞き方の説明) 12:44 Listen Again Without Subtitles (字幕なしでもう一度ストーリーを聞こう) 19:31 Ending (エンディング) | 💡 Learning Tips ✔️ First, watch with subtitles and focus on the story. ✔️ Then, listen again without subtitles. ✔️ Pause after each question and answer out loud (〇 or ×). ✔️ Try shadowing short sentences. ✔️ Think about this question: How can education quietly change the future? | 📄 Study Materials The full script (with/without furigana) and the vocabulary list are available as a paid study PDF on Ko-fi. 👉 https://ko-fi.com/s/3fdd12e608 | ☕ Support My Channel If you enjoy my content, consider supporting me on Ko-fi. Your support helps me continue creating high-quality Japanese learning materials 💖 👉 https://ko-fi.com/megsmile | 🏯 About Meg I am a certified Administrative Scrivener (immigration lawyer) in Japan and a Japanese teacher who creates storytelling-based learning materials for beginners. Immigration services (visa support): 👉 https://www.trust-gyosei.com/immigration-en/ | Note: Some images and scenes in this episode are AI-generated or digitally illustrated for learning purposes. Illustrations based on public domain photos are used where appropriate. They are designed to support understanding and are not historical photographs. | 🎵 Images, Videos & Music Credits CANVA: https://www.canva.com/ MotionElements: https://www.motionelements.com/ Adobe Stock: https://stock.adobe.com/jp/ Wikimedia Commons (Public Domain) BGMer: http://bgmer.net | #JapaneseListening #LearnJapanese #EasyJapanese #JLPTN4 #UpperBeginnerJapanese #ComprehensibleJapanese #StorytellingJapanese #MegSmile #TsudaUmeko #JapaneseHistory #WomenInEducation #ListeningPractice | |||
| #74 Short Story：Alex’s Family / storytelling // Beginner Japanese Listening | 26 Dec 2025 | 00:15:27 | |
🌸 About this video Welcome to my Japanese listening series for beginners! This episode is an original JLPT N5-level story about a fictional character, Alex, an international student living in Japan. Alex is studying Japanese at a language school, and in this video, he introduces his family living in his home country. The story is told in clear, slow-paced Japanese, making it ideal for early-stage learners. ✨ Language focus in this video ・No verb conjugation practice ・No te-form ・Almost entirely in polite “-masu” form ・Simple sentence structures and everyday vocabulary ｜ Because of this, the video is especially recommended for: ・Early JLPT N5 learners ・Students before studying te-form ・Learners who want to build listening confidence with gentle, natural narration ｜ Through Alex’s story, you can enjoy learning Japanese while listening to warm, everyday expressions about family, daily life, and personal feelings. Take your time, relax, and enjoy listening 🌿 Feel free to listen again without subtitles for extra practice! ｜ 📚 Level Beginner (Early JLPT N5) This story is told slowly and clearly, using mainly –masu form. The te-form is not used, so it’s ideal for learners who are studying basic verb forms and want to listen to natural Japanese without advanced grammar. ｜ 🕒 Chapters 00:00 Opening (オープニング) 00:32 Story Start ▷ Alex’s Family（ストーリー：アレックスさんの家族） 00:54 Alex’s Father (アレックスさんのお父さん) 02:26 Alex’s Mother (アレックスさんのお母さん) 03:14 Alex’s Sister (アレックスさんの妹) 04:18 Alex (アレックスさん) 05:12 Question Time (しつもんの時間) 05:19 Question Time Part 1 (しつもん①～⑦) 07:40 Question Time Part 2 (しつもん⑧～⑭) 10:13 Replay Guide (How to Listen / 聞き方の説明) 10:21 Listen Again Without Subtitles (字幕なしでもう一度ストーリーを聞こう) 15:02 Ending (エンディング) ｜ 💡 Learning Tips ✔️ Listen several times — your ears will get used to natural Japanese. ✔️ Try shadowing short phrases aloud. ✔️ Answer the questions out loud to check comprehension. ✔️ Listen again without subtitles to build confidence. ✔️ Practice introducing your own family in Japanese! ｜ 📄 Study Materials The full script (with/without furigana, Romaji)and the vocabulary list are available as a study PDF on Ko-fi. 👉 https://ko-fi.com/s/32be8f43ea ｜ ☕ Support My Channel If you enjoy my content, consider supporting me on Ko-fi. Your support helps me continue creating high-quality Japanese learning materials 💖 👉 https://ko-fi.com/megsmile ｜ 🏯 About Meg I am a certified Administrative Scrivener (immigration lawyer) in Japan and a Japanese teacher who creates storytelling-based learning materials for beginners. Immigration services (visa support): 👉 https://www.trust-gyosei.com/immigration-en/ ｜ 🎵 Images, Videos & Music Credits CANVA: https://www.canva.com/ MotionElements: https://www.motionelements.com/ Adobe Stock: https://stock.adobe.com/jp/ BGMer: http://bgmer.net ｜ #JapaneseListening #EasyJapanese #LearnJapanese #JapaneseForBeginners #JLPTN5 #N5Japanese #ComprehensibleJapanese #JapaneseStory #JapaneseFamily #ListeningPractice #JapaneseStudy #StoryBasedLearning #MegSmile | |||
| #69 Short story / Tragic Folktale / The Mermaid and the Red Candle / storytelling // N4 Level / Japanese listening | 13 Oct 2025 | 00:07:48 | |
This video contains a retelling of a classic Japanese tale in simple language. Today’s video features “The Mermaid and the Red Candle.” 💡 This story was inspired by “Akai Rōsoku to Ningyo” (The Red Candles and the Mermaid) by Mimei Ogawa (1882–1961) — a well-known modern Japanese short story. I rewrote it in easy Japanese (JLPT N4 level) so learners can enjoy and understand the story more smoothly. This episode is suitable for JLPT-N4 learners. Please use this audio for listening and shadowing practice. ☆Words I’m publishing this information on my website. The content is available on the script page of this video. ☆Script for this episode https://meg-smile.com/69-the-mermaid-and-the-red-candle-n4
☆Would you like to take my class? I’d love to help you start your Japanese learning journey! Book a trial lesson directly through my website: （If it’s your first time, please book a trial lesson to get started.） ☆My profile page ☆Love my content? Consider supporting my work on Ko-fi! Your generosity helps me create more engaging Japanese learning resources for you. Every contribution is greatly appreciated! ☕️🌸 ☆Images, Videos & Music CANVA：https://www.canva.com/ BGMer：http://bgmer.net VSQ plus+：https://vsq.co.jp/plus/ | |||
| #68 Short story / Heartwarming / The Visitor of Happiness (Sachiko) / Inspired by Shimazaki Toson / storytelling // N5 Level / Japanese listening | 11 Oct 2025 | 00:06:00 | |
This video contains a heartwarming story inspired by Japanese literature. Today’s video features “Sachiko and the Gift of Happiness.” 💡 This story was inspired by “Happiness” by Shimazaki Toson (1872–1943) — a classic short story from early modern Japan. I rewrote it in simple Japanese so that learners at the JLPT N5 level can enjoy it easily. This episode is suitable for JLPT-N5 level learners. Please use this audio for listening and shadowing practice. Additionally, there is a quiz based on this episode. Be sure to try it after listening! ☆Words I’m publishing this information on my website. The content is available on the script page of this video. ☆Script for this episode https://meg-smile.com/68-short-story-the-visitor-of-happiness-sachiko-n5/
☆Would you like to take my class? I’d love to help you start your Japanese learning journey! Book a trial lesson directly through my website: （If it’s your first time, please book a trial lesson to get started.） ☆My profile page ☆Love my content? Consider supporting my work on Ko-fi! Your generosity helps me create more engaging Japanese learning resources for you. Every contribution is greatly appreciated! ☕️🌸 ☆Images, Videos & Music CANVA：https://www.canva.com/ Adobe Stock：https://stock.adobe.com/jp/ MotionElements：https://www.motionelements.com/ BGMer：http://bgmer.net | |||
| #67 Japan New Visa / Digital Nomad Visa // N3 Level/ Japanese listening | 03 Dec 2024 | 00:07:19 | |
📢 Explore Japan with a Digital Nomad Visa! 🌏 Starting July, I’ve taken on a new and exciting role: helping foreigners navigate the process of obtaining visas in Japan. 🗾 In this video, I introduce the Digital Nomad Visa—a game-changer for remote workers who want to live and work in Japan. 💼 What’s inside the video? ・What is the Digital Nomad Visa? ・Who can apply for it? ・Required documents and important rules ・How my office, Trust Administrative Scrivener Office, can help you 🎯 Exclusive Full Support Package My office offers a special service, including: ・Complete assistance with visa applications ・Personalized Japanese lessons (online or in Kitakyushu!) ・Ongoing support via LINE and email This is not just about getting a visa—it’s about creating a rich and enjoyable experience in Japan. Whether you need guidance on the application process or want to immerse yourself in Japanese culture, I’m here to support you every step of the way! 🌟 Ready to start your new journey in Japan? Visit my website for more details or send me a message. Let’s make your dream of living in Japan a reality! https://www.trust-gyosei.com/japanese-digital-nomad-visa-about/ Don’t forget to comment below and let me know your thoughts. See you in Japan! 🇯🇵✨ This video was created as of November 2024. Please note that visa rules and regulations may change due to future legal revisions. For the most up-to-date information, feel free to contact our office. This episode is suitable for JLPT-N3 level learners. ☆Words I’m publishing this information on my website. The content is available on the script page of this video. ☆Script for this episode https://meg-smile.com/67-digital-nomad-visa-n3/ ☆Would you like to take my class? I’d love to help you start your Japanese learning journey! Book a trial lesson directly through my website: （If it’s your first time, please book a trial lesson to get started.） ☆My profile page ☆Love my content? Consider supporting my work on Ko-fi! Your generosity helps me create more engaging Japanese learning resources for you. Every contribution is greatly appreciated! ☕️🌸
MotionElements：https://www.motionelements.com/ BGMer：http://bgmer.net | |||
| #66 Daily life / Hair Donation / storytelling // N4 Level/ Japanese listening | 06 Aug 2024 | 00:06:32 | |
Recently, I donated my hair! Growing it out was quite a challenge, but I persevered. In this video, I'll share my hair donation journey, discuss the history of hair donations, and explain how you can donate your hair too ( in Japan). This episode is suitable for JLPT-N4 level learners. Please use this audio for listening and shadowing practices. ☆Words I’m publishing this information on my website. The content is available on the script page of this video. ☆Script for this episode https://meg-smile.com/hair-donation-n4/
☆Would you like to take my class? I’d love to help you start your Japanese learning journey! Book a trial lesson directly through my website: （If it’s your first time, please book a trial lesson to get started.） ☆My profile page ☆Love my content? Consider supporting my work on Ko-fi! Your generosity helps me create more engaging Japanese learning resources for you. Every contribution is greatly appreciated! ☕️🌸
MotionElements：https://www.motionelements.com/ | |||
| #65 Short story / Horror / The Spirit of the River / storytelling // N5 Level/ Japanese listening | 05 Aug 2024 | 00:08:02 | |
This video contains a scary story. If you don't like scary stories, please do not watch it. Today's video features a Japanese horror tale called 'The River Princess.' This story exists in various regions of Japan. I created this video by referencing these different regional versions. One day, a man saw a silver carp in the river. When he followed the carp... This episode is suitable for JLPT-N5 level learners. Please use this audio for listening and shadowing practices. Additionally, I've prepared a quiz based on this episode. Be sure to take it after listening! ☆Words I’m publishing this information on my website. The content is available on the script page of this video. ☆Script for this episode https://meg-smile.com/65-spirit-of-the-river-n5/
☆Would you like to take my class? I’d love to help you start your Japanese learning journey! Book a trial lesson directly through my website: （If it’s your first time, please book a trial lesson to get started.） ☆My profile page ☆Love my content? Consider supporting my work on Ko-fi! Your generosity helps me create more engaging Japanese learning resources for you. Every contribution is greatly appreciated! ☕️🌸
MotionElements：https://www.motionelements.com/ #comprehensible, #shortstory, #jlptn5, #podcast, #megsmile, storytelling, #listening, #japanese, #easyjapanese, #物語, #horror, #日本語の物語, #やさしい日本語, #japanesegrammar, #japasenestory, | |||
| #64 Short story / The Dark Side of Momotaro / storytelling // N3 Level/ Japanese listening | 06 Jul 2024 | 00:10:37 | |
Are you familiar with "Momotaro"? It's a famous Japanese folktale about a hero named Momotaro who defeats scary demons. Today, I'm sharing a version of Momotaro where he is the villain, written by Ryunosuke Akutagawa, a renowned Japanese author. The original Japanese text is quite difficult, so I simplified it to the JLPT N3 level. If you'd like to read the original story, you can find it at the link below. Give it a try! https://www.aozora.gr.jp/cards/000879/files/100_15253.html This episode is suitable for JLPT-N3 level learners. Please use this audio for listening and shadowing practices. ☆Words I’m publishing this information on my website. The content is available on the script page of this video.
https://meg-smile.com/64-the-dark-side-of-momotaro-n3/
☆Would you like to take my class? I’d love to help you start your Japanese learning journey! Book a trial lesson directly through my website: （If it’s your first time, please book a trial lesson to get started.） ☆My profile page ☆Love my content? Consider supporting my work on Ko-fi! Your generosity helps me create more engaging Japanese learning resources for you. Every contribution is greatly appreciated! ☕️🌸
MotionElements：https://www.motionelements.com/ | |||
| #63 Short story / The Prism Rainbow Umbrella / storytelling // N4 Level/ Japanese listening | 19 Jun 2024 | 00:08:05 | |
This is an original story I've crafted. An elderly man cherished his beautiful rainbow umbrella. One rainy day, he found a little girl crying and... This episode is suitable for JLPT-N4 level learners. Please use this audio for listening and shadowing practices. Additionally, I've prepared a quiz based on this episode. Be sure to take it after listening! ☆Words I’m publishing this information on my website. The content is available on the script page of this video. ☆Script for this episode https://meg-smile.com/63-the-prism-rainbow-umbrella-n4/
☆Would you like to take my class? I’d love to help you start your Japanese learning journey! Book a trial lesson directly through my website: （If it’s your first time, please book a trial lesson to get started.） ☆My profile page ☆Love my content? Consider supporting my work on Ko-fi! Your generosity helps me create more engaging Japanese learning resources for you. Every contribution is greatly appreciated! ☕️🌸
MotionElements：https://www.motionelements.com/ | |||
| #62 Short story / The Cat and the Old Letter / storytelling // N5 Level/ Japanese listening | 29 May 2024 | 00:07:21 | |
This is an original story I've crafted. One day, a cat wandered into the post office. Following this unexpected visit, an old letter was discovered... This episode is suitable for JLPT-N5 level learners. Please use this audio for listening and shadowing practices. Additionally, I've prepared a quiz based on this episode. Be sure to take it after listening! ☆Words I’m publishing this information on my website. The content is available on the script page of this video. ☆Script for this episode https://meg-smile.com/62-the-cat-and-the-old-letter-n5/
☆Would you like to take my class? I’d love to help you start your Japanese learning journey! Book a trial lesson directly through my website: https://meg-smile.com/lesson/ （If it’s your first time, please book a trial lesson to get started.） ☆My profile page ☆Love my content? Consider supporting my work on Ko-fi! Your generosity helps me create more engaging Japanese learning resources for you. Every contribution is greatly appreciated! ☕️🌸
MotionElements：https://www.motionelements.com/ | |||
| #61 Daily life / Morning Routine: Walks, Apps, and Addictions!? / storytelling // N3 Level/ Japanese listening | 19 May 2024 | 00:06:12 | |
2024年春の私の毎朝の習慣を紹介します。 《I'd like to share my morning routine in the spring of 2024.》 This episode is at the JLPT-N3 level. Please use this audio for listening and shadowing practices. ☆”ふりがな”について This video's subtitles have very few furigana. Only the difficult kanji have furigana displayed. If you want to see furigana, please refer to the script available online. ☆Words I’m publishing this information on my website. The content is available on the script page of this video. ☆おすすめAPP：Cotomo Recommended for practicing natural Japanese conversation!
https://meg-smile.com/61-morning-routine-n3/
☆Would you like to take my class? I’d love to help you start your Japanese learning journey! Book a trial lesson directly through my website: https://meg-smile.com/lesson/ （If it’s your first time, please book a trial lesson to get started.） ☆My profile page ☆Love my content? Consider supporting my work on Ko-fi! Your generosity helps me create more engaging Japanese learning resources for you. Every contribution is greatly appreciated! ☕️🌸
BGMer：http://bgmer.net | |||
| #60 Short story / One Day Late Flower Seller / storytelling // N4 Level/ Japanese listening | 13 May 2024 | 00:07:07 | |
This story is based on a folktale passed down in Shimane Prefecture. This episode is at the JLPT-N4 level. Please use this audio for listening and shadowing practices. ☆Words & Quiz I’m publishing this information on my website. The content is available on the script page of this video. ☆Script for this episode https://meg-smile.com/60-one-day-late-flower-seller-n4/ ☆Would you like to take my class? I’d love to help you start your Japanese learning journey! Book a trial lesson directly through my website: https://meg-smile.com/lesson/ （If it’s your first time, please book a trial lesson to get started.） ☆My profile page ☆Love my content? Consider supporting my work on Ko-fi! Your generosity helps me create more engaging Japanese learning resources for you. Every contribution is greatly appreciated! ☕️🌸
BGMer：http://bgmer.net | |||
| #73 New Edition：朝の習慣（Morning routine） // Upper Beginner Japanese Listening | 21 Dec 2025 | 00:16:52 | |
🌸 About this video Welcome to the New Edition of my Japanese listening series! This video is a refreshed and expanded version of my earlier video Episode #2 “毎朝（まいあさ）していること | Morning Routine” (JLPT N4 Level). In this New Edition, I talk about my daily morning routine using clear and natural Japanese at the JLPT N4 level. | This video is perfect for: ・JLPT N4 learners ・Learners who want to improve listening comprehension with natural but simple Japanese ・Students who enjoy daily-life topics and clear narration ・Anyone studying Japanese for work or life in Japan | Through this video, you’ll learn: ・Common Japanese expressions for daily routines ・Vocabulary related to morning activities, work, and schedules ・How Japanese is used naturally in everyday life | 🎧 Try listening first without subtitles, then listen again while reading the script to deepen your understanding. | 📚 Level Upper Beginner (JLPT N4) Clear and natural narration using N4-level grammar. | 🕒 Chapters 00:00 Opening (オープニング) 00:15 Story Start ▷ Morning routine（ストーリー：朝の習慣） 00:54 Dog’s breakfast（犬の朝ごはん） 02:01 Morning walk（散歩へ） 02:58 After the walk（散歩のあと） 04:41 Morning at home（家にいる日の朝） 05:06 Breakfast（朝ごはん） 05:32 Getting ready to go out（出かける準備） 06:03 Question Time (しつもんの時間) 06:11 Question Time Part 1 (しつもん①～⑤) 07:56 Question Time Part 2 (しつもん⑥～⑩) 09:58 Replay Guide (How to Listen / 聞き方の説明) 10:04 Listen Again Without Subtitles (字幕なしでもう一度ストーリーを聞こう) 15:53 Ending (エンディング) | 💡 Learning Tips ✔️ First, watch with subtitles and focus on the overall flow of the morning routine. ✔️ Then, listen again without subtitles to practice natural listening comprehension. ✔️ Pause the video and repeat key sentences out loud, especially daily routine expressions. ✔️ Try shadowing short, natural sentences used in everyday life (time, actions, habits). ✔️ Compare Meg’s morning routine with yours and think: What is similar? What is different? | 📄 Study Materials The full script (with/without furigana) and the vocabulary list are available as a paid study PDF on Ko-fi. 👉 https://ko-fi.com/s/7e0413ef3b | ☕ Support My Channel If you enjoy my content, consider supporting me on Ko-fi. Your support helps me continue creating high-quality Japanese learning materials 💖 👉 https://ko-fi.com/megsmile | 🏯 About Meg I am a certified Administrative Scrivener (immigration lawyer) in Japan and a Japanese teacher who creates storytelling-based learning materials for beginners. Immigration services (visa support): 👉 https://www.trust-gyosei.com/immigration-en/ | 🎵 Images, Videos & Music Credits CANVA: https://www.canva.com/ MotionElements: https://www.motionelements.com/ Adobe Stock: https://stock.adobe.com/jp/ BGMer: http://bgmer.net | #JapaneseListening #EasyJapanese #LearnJapanese #JapaneseForBeginners #JLPTN4 #UpperBeginnerJapanese #DailyJapanese #MorningRoutineJapanese #EverydayJapanese #ComprehensibleJapanese #JapaneseListeningPractice #JapaneseLife #MegSmile | |||
| #59 Short story / Hanako's new room / storytelling // N5 Level/ Japanese listening | 21 Apr 2024 | 00:07:35 | |
This is an original story I created.This video is the second installment of the following video. ▷Hanako’s daily life （https://youtu.be/vcZX1piFcnQ?si=WL6yjJiYbMuS2gji) This episode is at the JLPT-N5 level. Please use this audio for listening and shadowing practices. ☆Words I’m publishing this information on my website. The content is available on the script page of this video.
https://meg-smile.com/59-hanakos-new-room-n5/
☆Would you like to take my class? I’d love to help you start your Japanese learning journey! Book a trial lesson directly through my website: https://meg-smile.com/lesson/ （If it’s your first time, please book a trial lesson to get started.） ☆My profile page ☆Love my content? Consider supporting my work on Ko-fi! Your generosity helps me create more engaging Japanese learning resources for you. Every contribution is greatly appreciated! ☕️🌸
BGMer：http://bgmer.net | |||
| #58 Japanese Anime / ちびまる子ちゃん《Chibi Maruko-chan》 // N3/ Japanese listening | 17 Mar 2024 | 00:06:50 | |
In this video, I will introduce the long-running Japanese TV anime 'Chibi Maruko-chan', which has been airing for over 30 years. This episode is at the JLPT-N3 level. Please use this audio for listening and shadowing practices. ☆Words I’m publishing this information on my website. The content is available on the script page of this video.
https://meg-smile.com/58-chibi-maruko-chan-n3/
☆Would you like to take my class? I’d love to help you start your Japanese learning journey! Book a trial lesson directly through my website: https://meg-smile.com/lesson/ （If it’s your first time, please book a trial lesson to get started.） ☆My profile page ☆Love my content? Consider supporting my work on Ko-fi! Your generosity helps me create more engaging Japanese learning resources for you. Every contribution is greatly appreciated! ☕️🌸 ☆Reference ちびまる子ちゃん オフィシャルサイト《Chibi Maruko-chan Official Site》：https://chibimaru.tv/
BGMer：http://bgmer.net | |||
| #57 History / ジョン万次郎《John Manjiro》/ storytelling // N4/ Japanese listening | 12 Mar 2024 | 00:07:13 | |
In this video, I'll delve into the story of a significant figure in Japanese history, 'John Manjiro.' Stay tuned to discover his fascinating tale! This episode is at the JLPT-N4 level. Please use this audio for listening and shadowing practices. ☆Words I’m publishing this information on my website. The content is available on the script page of this video.
https://meg-smile.com/57-history-john-manjiro-n4/
☆Would you like to take my class? I’d love to help you start your Japanese learning journey! Book a trial lesson directly through my website: https://meg-smile.com/lesson/ （If it’s your first time, please book a trial lesson to get started.） ☆My profile page ☆Love my content? Consider supporting my work on Ko-fi! Your generosity helps me create more engaging Japanese learning resources for you. Every contribution is greatly appreciated! ☕️🌸
BGMer：http://bgmer.net | |||
| #56 Short story / 十六桜《Sakura Blooming on January 16th》/ storytelling // N5/ Japanese listening | 27 Feb 2024 | 00:04:22 | |
Today’s episode is titled “十六桜 (Jiu-roku-zakura)《Sakura Blooming on January 16th》. This story is based on a folk tale from Ehime Prefecture. This episode is at the JLPT-N5 level. I've also prepared a quiz based on this episode. After listening, please take the quiz! Please use this audio for listening and shadowing practices. ☆Words I’m publishing this information on my website. The content is available on the script page of this video. ☆Script for this episode https://meg-smile.com/56-sakura-bloomi…-january-16th-n5/
☆Quiz for this episode I used to publish quizzes on a different site, but I've decided to release quizzes on my own website. The quiz is now available on the same page as the script. ☆Would you like to take my class? I’d love to help you start your Japanese learning journey! Book a trial lesson directly through my website: https://meg-smile.com/lesson/ （If it’s your first time, please book a trial lesson to get started.） ☆My profile page ☆Love my content? Consider supporting my work on Ko-fi! Your generosity helps me create more engaging Japanese learning resources for you. Every contribution is greatly appreciated! ☕️🌸
BGMer：http://bgmer.net | |||
| #55 Short story / 庭の秘密～探偵物語1～《The Secret of the Garden～Detective Story 1～》/ storytelling // N3/ Japanese listening | 15 Feb 2024 | 00:13:55 | |
Today’s episode is titled “庭の秘密～探偵物語1～ (niwa no himitsu ~tantei monogatari 1~)《The Secret of the Garden～Detective Story 1～》. This is a detective story I created. The story progresses through the narration of the detective. Please enjoy. This episode is at the JLPT-N3 level. I've also prepared a quiz based on this episode. After listening, please take the quiz! Please use this audio for listening and shadowing practices. ☆Words I’m publishing this information on my website. The content is available on the script page of this video. ☆Script for this episode https://meg-smile.com/55detective-story-1-n3/
☆Quiz for this episode I used to publish quizzes on a different site, but I've decided to release quizzes on my own website. The quiz is now available on the same page as the script. ☆Would you like to take my class? I’d love to help you start your Japanese learning journey! Book a trial lesson directly through my website: https://meg-smile.com/lesson/ （If it’s your first time, please book a trial lesson to get started.） ☆My profile page ☆Love my content? Consider supporting my work on Ko-fi! Your generosity helps me create more engaging Japanese learning resources for you. Every contribution is greatly appreciated! ☕️🌸
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| #54 Short story / おもちゃの兵隊《The Toy Soldier》/ storytelling // N4/ Japanese listening | 06 Feb 2024 | 00:05:09 | |
Today’s episode is “おもちゃの兵隊 (omocha no heetai)《The Toy Soldier》. This work was inspired by Andersen's fairy tale 'The Steadfast Tin Soldier.' It's a somewhat sad tale, but I believe it prompts contemplation about love. As Valentine's Day approaches, I've created this video. This episode is at the JLPT-N4 level. I've also prepared a quiz based on this episode. After listening, please take the quiz! Please use this audio for listening and shadowing practices. ☆Words ／ Conjugation of verbs Starting from now, I’m publishing this information on my website. The content is available on the script page of this video. ☆Script for this episode https://meg-smile.com/54-the-toy-soldier-n4/
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| #53 Short story / 魔女のパン《Witches' Loaves》/ storytelling // N5 Level / Japanese listening | 31 Jan 2024 | 00:12:23 | |
Today’s episode is “魔女のパン(majo no pan)《Witches' Loaves》. This story is a simple Japanese translation of O'Henry's "Witches' Loaves.'' This episode is JLPT-N5 level. I created a quiz on this episode. After listening, please take the quiz! Please use this audio for listening and shadowing practices. ☆Words 魔女（まじょ）：witch パン屋（や）：bakery お金持（かねも）ち：rich 帽子（ぼうし）を かぶる：wear a hat 硬（かた）い：hard 茶色（ちゃいろ）：brown 絵（え）の具（ぐ）：paints, colors 画家（がか）：painter, artist 絵（え）を描（か）く：paint a picture 棚（たな）：shelf イタリア：Italy ベネチア：Venice 建物（たてもの）；building ２日後（ふつかご）：two days later 袋（ふくろ）：(plastic) bag 顔（かお）：face 助（たす）ける：help 青（あお）い：blue ブラウス：blouse 明（あか）るい：bright 化粧（けしょう）をする：put on makeup 道（みち）：road 消防車（しょうぼうしゃ）：fire truck チャンス：chance バター：butter ドキドキする：heart is thumping 髪（かみ）の毛（け）：hair バカ：fool 怒（おこ）る：get angry 手（て）をあげる：raise hand 建築家（けんちくか）：architect コンテスト：contest 線（せん）：line 奥（おく）：back, far side 脱（ぬ）ぐ：take off 化粧品（けしょうひん）：cosmetics ごみ箱（ばこ）：trash can 捨（す）てる：throw away ☆Conjugation of verbs ます形（けい）《masu-form》 て形（けい）《te-form》 じしょ形（けい）《dictionary-form》 た形（けい）《ta-form》 ☆Grammar ～でしょう：probably Represents a prediction of the future. (Something that cannot be clearly determined.) ・たぶん あの人（ひと）は 私（わたし）と もっと 話（はな）したいでしょう。 《There's a probability that the person wants to talk to me more.》 ※I explained this grammar because it is at the N4 level. ☆Script for this episode https://meg-smile.com/53-witches-loave-n5/
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| #52 Short story / 節分の鬼《Setsubun Ogre Story》/ storytelling // N3 Level /Japanese listening | 22 Jan 2024 | 00:06:00 | |
Today’s episode is titled 'Setsubun Ogre Story' (節分の鬼〔setsubun no oni〕). This is a tale inspired by a Setsubun folktale from Iwate Prefecture in Japan. This episode is JLPT-N3 level. I created a quiz on this episode. After listening, please take the quiz! Please use this audio for listening and shadowing practices. ☆Words☆ 節分（せつぶん）： Setsubun is the event held to pray for our happy and healthy life.It is held on Feb 3th or 4th.On that day, we throw away beans with saying "Devils out! Happiness in!"This is called "Mame-maki" (Mame means beans, maki means throwing away.) 鬼（おに）：Ogres, Devils 伝統的（でんとうてき）な：traditional お祝（いわ）いする：celebrate 昔話（むかしばなし）：folk tale 貧乏（びんぼう）な：poor お墓参（はかまい）り：visit the family grave 押（お）し入（い）れ：closet お面（めん）：(festival) mask わざと：on purpose 叫（さけ）ぶ：shout 祈（いの）る：pray 長生（ながい）きする：live long ☆Script for this episode https://meg-smile.com/52-setsubun-ogre-story-n3/ ☆Quiz for this episode ※Need to register (free) with italki. ☆If you haven’t used italki, click the link below. (This is the italki page. You can receive $10 USD italki Credits in your Student Wallet within 48 hours after you make your first purchase.) ☆Would you like to take my class? I’d love to help you start your Japanese learning journey! Book a trial lesson directly through my website: https://meg-smile.com/lesson/ （If it’s your first time, please book a trial lesson to get started.） ☆Music BGMer：http://bgmer.net | |||
| #51 Short story / 月夜のおばけとかなしいひみつ《The Moonlit Ghost & the Sorrowful Secret》/ storytelling // N4/ Japanese listening | 15 Jan 2024 | 00:05:45 | |
Today’s episode is “月夜のおばけとかなしいひみつ (tsukiyo no obake to kanashī himitsu)《The Moonlit Ghost and the Sorrowful Secret》. This episode is JLPT-N4 level. I created a quiz on this episode. After listening, please take the quiz! Please use this audio for listening and shadowing practices. ☆Words 月夜：moonlit night おばけ：ghost かなしい：sad,sorrowful ひみつ：secret 森（もり）：forest 地面（じめん）：ground 足跡（あしあと）：footprints ～を追（お）う：to chase ～間（あいだ）に：while 急（いそ）ぐ：hurry 迷（まよ）う：get lost,to lose one's way 怖（こわ）い：scary 玄関（げんかん）：entrance 返事（へんじ）：reply 明（あ）かり：light ～方（ほう）：toward 迷子（まいご）になる：get lost 怪我（けが）：injury ☆Conjugation of verbs ます形（けい）《masu-form》 て形（けい）《te-form》 じしょ形（けい）《dictionary-form》 た形（けい）《ta-form》 いこう形（けい）《Volitional-form》 ☆Script for this episode https://meg-smile.com/51-moonlit-ghost…rowful-secret-n4/
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| #50 Short story / 未来のペット《Future Pet》/ storytelling // N5 Level / Japanese listening | 08 Jan 2024 | 00:06:55 | |
Today’s episode is “未来のペット (mirai no petto)《Future Pet》. This episode is JLPT-N5 level. I created a quiz on this episode. After listening, please take the quiz! Please use this audio for listening and shadowing practices. ☆Words 未来（みらい）：future ペット：pet 居酒屋（いざかや）：izakaya (Japanese pub) 動物（どうぶつ）：animal ～なぁ：《suffix expressing casualness or familiarity》 ペットショップ：pet shop 店員（てんいん）：clerk いらっしゃいませ：welcome 僕（ぼく）：I, used by males 箱（はこ）：box ロボット：robot 本当（ほんとう）：real 同（おな）じ：same ちがう：different 簡単（かんたん）：easy 飼（か）う：to own, to keep as a pet 笑（わら）う：to laugh 窓（まど）：window こわい：scary 嫌（きら）い：dislike 住（す）む：to live 人間（にんげん）：human 嫌（いや）：don't like it 悪（わる）い：bad 思（おも）い出（だ）す：to remember ☆Conjugation of verbs ます形（けい）《masu-form》 て形（けい）《te-form》 じしょ形（けい）《dictionary-form》 た形（けい）《ta-form》 ☆Script for this episode https://meg-smile.com/50-future-pet-n5/ ☆Quiz for this episode https://www.italki.com/quiz/set/18640?utm_source=copylink_share&utm_medium=share_content&utm_campaign=share_quiz ※Need to register (free) with italki. ☆If you haven’t used italki, click the link below. https://promos.italki.com/learnanylanguage-en/?ref=meg-smile&utm_source=meg-smile&utm_medium=partner&utm_campaign=kol&hl=en (This is the italki page. You can receive $10 USD italki Credits in your Student Wallet within 48 hours after you make your first purchase.) ☆Would you like to take my class? I’d love to help you start your Japanese learning journey! Book a trial lesson directly through my website: https://meg-smile.com/lesson/ （If it’s your first time, please book a trial lesson to get started.） ☆Music BGMer：http://bgmer.net | |||
| #72 Short Story：Hanako’s Room – Inside the Apartment / storytelling // Beginner Japanese Listening | 11 Dec 2025 | 00:15:52 | |
🌸 About this video Welcome to my Japanese listening series for beginners! This episode is an original N5-level story about Hanako and her new apartment room. This video is the third installment of the Hanako Series: １） Hanako’s Daily Life（#5） ２） Hanako's holiday（#13） ３） Hanako’s summer vacation（#19・#22） ４） Hanako’s New Room（#59） ５） Hanako’s Room – Inside the Apartment（this video） If you enjoy simple Japanese stories with clear narration, this video is perfect for you. Through this story, you will learn everyday Japanese used to describe rooms, furniture, favorite items, and daily routines — all in JLPT N5 grammar and vocabulary. | 📚 Level Beginner (Early JLPT N5) This story is told slowly and clearly, using mainly –masu form. The te-form is not used, so it’s ideal for learners who are studying basic verb forms and want to listen to natural Japanese without advanced grammar. | 🕒 Chapters 00:00 Opening (オープニング) 00:12 Story Start ▷ Hanako’s Room（ストーリー：はなこさんのへや） 00:47 Room Overview (部屋のようす) 01:53 The Bed and Special Items (ベッドと大切なもの) 02:58 The Desk (つくえ) 04:13 The Bookshelf (本棚) 05:08 Relaxing Time (ゆっくりする時間) 05:39 Question Time (しつもんの時間) 05:46 Question Time Part 1 (しつもん①～⑤) 07:31 Question Time Part 2 (しつもん⑥～⑩) 09:32 Replay Guide (How to Listen / 聞き方の説明) 09:41 Listen Again Without Subtitles (字幕なしでもう一度ストーリーを聞こう) 15:09 Ending (エンディング) | 💡 Learning Tips ✔️ Listen several times — your ears will get used to natural Japanese. ✔️ Try shadowing short phrases aloud. ✔️ Answer the questions out loud to check comprehension. ✔️ Listen again without subtitles to build confidence. ✔️ Practice describing your own room in Japanese! | 📄 Study Materials The full script (with/without furigana, Romaji)and the vocabulary list are available as a study PDF on Ko-fi. 👉 https://ko-fi.com/s/06f492da46 | ☕ Support My Channel If you enjoy my content, consider supporting me on Ko-fi. Your support helps me continue creating high-quality Japanese learning materials 💖 👉 https://ko-fi.com/megsmile | 🏯 About Meg I am a certified Administrative Scrivener (immigration lawyer) in Japan and a Japanese teacher who creates storytelling-based learning materials for beginners. Immigration services (visa support): 👉 https://www.trust-gyosei.com/immigration-en/ | 🎵 Images, Videos & Music Credits CANVA: https://www.canva.com/ MotionElements: https://www.motionelements.com/ Adobe Stock: https://stock.adobe.com/jp/ irasutoya：https://www.irasutoya.com/ BGMer: http://bgmer.net | #JapaneseListening #EasyJapanese #LearnJapanese #JapaneseForBeginners #N5Japanese #ComprehensibleJapanese #JapaneseStory #HanakoSeries #MegSmile #ListeningPractice #JapaneseStudy #StorytellingJapanese | |||
| #49 Japanese culture / おせち《osechi》 // N3 Level /Japanese listening | 31 Dec 2023 | 00:04:22 | |
I’ll introduce Japanese culture in easy Japanese. Today’s Theme is “おせち《osechi》”. This episode is JLPT-N3 level. I created a quiz on this episode. After listening, please take the quiz! Please use this audio for listening and shadowing practices. ☆Words☆ おせち料理（りょうり）：traditional Japanese New Year feast 伝統的（でんとうてき）な：traditional 元日（がんじつ）：New Year's Day 黒豆（くろまめ）：sweet black soybeans 大豆（だいず）：soy 祈（いの）る：pray えび：shrimp ひげ：beard 曲（ま）がる：bend 老人（ろうじん）：elderly person 長生（ながい）きする：live long 昆布巻（こぶま）き：konbu rolls 鮭（さけ）：salmon 巻（ま）く：roll 数（かず）の子（こ）：herring roe ニシン：herring 栗（くり）きんとん：sweet potato with chestnuts さつまいも：sweet potato 栗（くり）：chestnut 混（ま）ぜる：mix 貯（た）める：save 伊達巻（だてま）き：sweet rolled omelet オムレツ：omelette 巻物（まきもの）：scroll, rolled book 紅白（こうはく）かまぼこ：Red and White Fish Cake かまぼこ：boiled fish paste 日（ひ）の出（で）：sunrise 箸（はし）：chopsticks 祝（いわ）い箸（ばし）：special festival chopsticks for New Year 一方（いっぽう）：one side 神人共食（しんじんきょうしょく）：God and humans eating together ☆Script for this episode https://meg-smile.com/49-osechi-n3/ ☆Quiz for this episode ※Need to register (free) with italki. ☆If you haven’t used italki, click the link below. (This is the italki page. You can receive $10 USD italki Credits in your Student Wallet within 48 hours after you make your first purchase.) ☆Would you like to take my class? I’d love to help you start your Japanese learning journey! Book a trial lesson directly through my website: https://meg-smile.com/lesson/ （If it’s your first time, please book a trial lesson to get started.）
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| #48 Short story / 星のプレゼント《Gift of the Star》/ storytelling // N4 Level / Japanese listening | 23 Dec 2023 | 00:05:43 | |
Today’s episode is “星のプレゼント (hoshi no purezento)《Gift of the Star》. I created a Christmas story. This episode is JLPT-N4 level. I created a quiz on this episode. After listening, please take the quiz! Please use this audio for listening and shadowing practices. ☆Words 星（ほし）：star 物語（ものがたり）：story 両親（りょうしん）：parents 経営（けいえい）する：manage 下（した）を向（む）く：look down 嘘（うそ）をつく：tell a lie 予定（よてい）：plan インターホン：intercom キラキラ：twinkle 光（ひか）る：shine 怖（こわ）い：scary 妖精（ようせい）：fairy お願（ねが）い：wish 魔法（まほう）：magic 星空（ほしぞら）：starry sky 涙（なみだ）：tears 君（きみ）：you 願（ねが）いが叶（かな）う：wish come true ☆Script for this episode https://meg-smile.com/48-gift-of-the-star-n4/ ☆Quiz for this episode ※Need to register (free) with italki. ☆If you haven’t used italki, click the link below. (This is the italki page. You can receive $10 USD italki Credits in your Student Wallet within 48 hours after you make your first purchase.) ☆Would you like to take my class? I’d love to help you start your Japanese learning journey! Book a trial lesson directly through my website: https://meg-smile.com/lesson/ （If it’s your first time, please book a trial lesson to get started.） ☆Music BGMer：http://bgmer.net | |||
| #47 Short story / 冬の家族物語《Winter Family Tale》/ storytelling // N5 Level / Japanese listening | 11 Dec 2023 | 00:04:54 | |
Today’s episode is “冬の家族物語 (fuyu no kazoku monogatari)《Winter Family Tale》. I created a story about spending time with family in Japan during December and January. This episode is JLPT-N5 level. I created a quiz on this episode. After listening, please take the quiz! Please use this audio for listening and shadowing practices. ☆Words 電気毛布（でんきもうふ）：electric blanket 雪合戦（ゆきがっせん）：snowball fight 雪（ゆき）だるま：snowman お腹（なか）が空（す）く：hungry 温（あたた）かい：warm かぼちゃ：pumpkin 準備（じゅんび）：preparation 飾（かざ）る：decorate サンタさん：Santa Claus 人形（にんぎょう）：doll 楽（たの）しみにする：look forward to イチゴ：strawberry 冬休（ふゆやす）み：winter vacation 温泉（おんせん）：hot spring 卓球（たっきゅう）：table tennis 神社（じんじゃ）：shrine ☆Script for this episode https://meg-smile.com/47-winter-family-tale-n5-level/ ☆Quiz for this episode ※Need to register (free) with italki. ☆If you haven’t used italki, click the link below. (This is the italki page. You can receive $10 USD italki Credits in your Student Wallet within 48 hours after you make your first purchase.) ☆Would you like to take my class? I’d love to help you start your Japanese learning journey! Book a trial lesson directly through my website: https://meg-smile.com/lesson/ （If it’s your first time, please book a trial lesson to get started.） ☆Music BGMer：http://bgmer.net | |||
| #46 １年間の挑戦！勉強を続けてわかったこと // N3 Level /Japanese listening | 16 Nov 2023 | 00:05:00 | |
Today’s Theme is “１年間（ねんかん）の挑戦（ちょうせん）！勉強（べんきょう）を続（つづ）けてわかったこと”. This episode is JLPT-N3 level. Please use this audio for listening and shadowing practices. ☆Words☆ 挑戦（ちょうせん）：challenge 法律（ほうりつ）：law 駅弁（えきべん）：Ekiben《Train station boxed lunch》 景色（けしき）：view モチベーション：motivation 資格試験（しかくしけん）：qualification exam ただ：only, just ☆Script for this episode https://meg-smile.com/46-studymethod-n3-level/
(This is the italki page. You can receive $10 USD italki Credits in your Student Wallet within 48 hours after you make your first purchase.) ☆Would you like to take my class? I’d love to help you start your Japanese learning journey! Book a trial lesson directly through my website: https://meg-smile.com/lesson/ （If it’s your first time, please book a trial lesson to get started.） 音楽：BGMer http://bgmer.net | |||
| #45 新しい習慣《New habits》 // N4 Level / Japanese listening | 13 Sep 2023 | 00:03:22 | |
Today’s Theme is “新（あたら）しい習慣（しゅうかん）《New habits》”. This episode is JLPT-N4 level. I created a quiz on this episode. After listening, please take the quiz! Please use this audio for listening and shadowing practices. ☆Words 習慣（しゅうかん）： habit 太陽（たいよう）：sun 新鮮（しんせん）な：fresh 空気（くうき）：air 環境（かんきょう）：environment 心（こころ）を落（お）ち着（つ）かせる：calm down ☆Script for this episode https://meg-smile.com/45-new-habits-n4/
☆If you haven’t used italki, click the link below. (This is the italki page. You can receive $10 USD italki Credits in your Student Wallet within 48 hours after you make your first purchase.) ☆Would you like to take my class? I’d love to help you start your Japanese learning journey! Book a trial lesson directly through my website: https://meg-smile.com/lesson/ （If it’s your first time, please book a trial lesson to get started.） | |||
| #44 Short story / たけしの夏《Takeshi's Summer》/ storytelling // N5 Level / Japanese listening | 01 Aug 2023 | 00:05:46 | |
Today’s episode is “たけしの夏 (Takeshi no natsu)《Takeshi's Summer》. This episode is JLPT-N5 level. I created a quiz on this episode. After listening, please take the quiz! Please use this audio for listening and shadowing practices. ☆Words 小学生（しょうがくせい）《shoogakusee》：elementary school student 夏休（なつやす）み《natsuyasumi》：summer vacation ～が 見（み）える／見（み）えない《～ga mieru / mienai》：be seen / can not be seen 庭（にわ）《niwa》：garden, yard 地震（じしん）《jishin》：earthquake 穴（あな）《ana》：hole 怖（こわ）い《kowai》：scary 暗（くら）い《kurai》：dark 突然（とつぜん）《totsuzen》：suddenly 明（あか）るくなる《akarukunaru》：become brighter ～に 落（お）ちる《～ni ochiru》：fall 目（め）を 開（あ）ける／閉（と）じる《me o akeru / tojiru》：open one's eyes / close one's eyes 妖精（ようせい）《yoosee》：fairy 魔法（まほう） の 世界（せかい）《mahoo no sekai》：The Magic World 星（ほし）《hoshi》：star 花火（はなび） 《hanabi》：fireworks 空（そら）《sora》：sky ☆Script for this episode https://meg-smile.com/44-short-story-takeshis-summer-n5/ ☆Quiz for this episode ※Need to register (free) with italki. ☆If you haven’t used italki, click the link below. (This is the italki page. You can receive $10 USD italki Credits in your Student Wallet within 48 hours after you make your first purchase.) ☆Would you like to take my class? I’d love to help you start your Japanese learning journey! Book a trial lesson directly through my website: https://meg-smile.com/lesson/ （If it’s your first time, please book a trial lesson to get started.） | |||
| #43 Japanese culture / お盆《Bon festival》 // N3 Level /Japanese listening | 11 Jul 2023 | 00:06:05 | |
I’ll introduce Japanese culture in easy Japanese. Today’s Theme is “お盆（ぼん）《Bon festival》”. This episode is JLPT-N3 level. I created a quiz on this episode. After listening, please take the quiz! Please use this audio for listening and shadowing practices. ☆Words☆ お盆（ぼん）：Bon festival Obon is one of the Buddhist events. In Buddhism, it is believed that the spirits of family ancestors come back to this world during the Obon period between July and August, and a series of events take place to commemorate them. Obon is regarded as one of the most important family occasions of the year in Japan. Although Obon is not an official holiday, many offices are temporarily closed for business during this period. 盆踊（ぼんおど）り：Bon Festival dance Bon Odori is a traditional Japanese dance that is generally performed at events or festivals during Obon holidays. Participants wear yukata, a casual traditional Kimono-style garment, and dance to traditional music while circling around a stage to honor the spirits of ancestors. 移動（いどう）する：move 仏教（ぶっきょう）：Buddhism 先祖（せんぞ）：ancestor もてなす：treat / welcome 仏壇（ぶつだん）：Buddhist altar 迎（むか）え火（び）：welcoming fire “迎え火” is a sacred fire that is often burned on August 13th in front of each household to guide the spirits of their ancestors back home. 提灯（ちょうちん）：chochin lantern 送（おく）り火（び）：seeing off fire "送り火"is lit on the last day of Obon, which is generally August 16th to send the ancestors back to their world. 五山送り火（ござんのおくりび）： The Send-off Bonfires of Five Mountains (Gozan no Okuribi) refers to the annual bonfires lit at various 5 locations including Nyoigatake (Mt. Nyoi known as Mt. Daimonji) on August 16 in Kyoto City. 阿波踊（あわおど）り： “阿波踊り” is the largest and the most famous bon festival dance in Japan, attracting more than 1 million visitors from August 12 to 15 every year. “阿波” is the old name of Tokushima Prefecture, and “踊り” means dance. Every night, groups of dancers dressed in yukata, or light cotton kimono, dance around in the town to the theme song called “Yoshikono” accompanied by three stringed shamisen, flutes, drums and bells. ☆Script for this episode https://meg-smile.com/43-bon-festival-n3-level/
※Need to register (free) with italki. ☆If you haven’t used italki, click the link below. (This is the italki page. You can receive $10 USD italki Credits in your Student Wallet within 48 hours after you make your first purchase.) ☆Would you like to take my class? I’d love to help you start your Japanese learning journey! Book a trial lesson directly through my website: https://meg-smile.com/lesson/ （If it’s your first time, please book a trial lesson to get started.） | |||
| #42 うなぎの日？ / Eel Day? // N4 Level /Japanese listening | 02 Jul 2023 | 00:04:19 | |
Today’s Theme is “うなぎの日（ひ）？《Eel Day?》”. This episode is JLPT-N4 level. I created a quiz on this episode. After listening, please take the quiz! Please use this audio for listening and shadowing practices. ☆Words☆ うなぎ：eel 土用（どよう）："土用（どよう）" strictly refers to the 18 days before the first days of spring, summer, fall, and winter (on the lunar calendar). Today, however, "土用（どよう）" generally refers only to the 18 days before the first day of fall. 丑（うし）の日（ひ）：The day called "丑（うし）の日（ひ）", which is translated literally as the day of the Ox, can be seen in the calendar that follows the twelve signs of the Chinese zodiac. The twelve signs were introduced to Japan from ancient China. The twelve signs were allocated one by one to the days on the calendar. "丑（うし）の日（ひ）" is the day to which the second sign of the twelve signs is allocated. 立春（りっしゅん）：the first day of spring 立夏（りっか）：the first day of summer 立秋（りっしゅう）：the first day of fall 立冬（りっとう）：the first day of winter つまり：in other words 干支（えと）：the twelve zodiac signs in Chinese astrology 梅干（うめぼ）し：pickled plums ウリ：a gourd ☆Script for this episode https://meg-smile.com/42-eel-day-n4/
☆Quiz for this episode ※Need to register (free) with italki. ☆If you haven’t used italki, click the link below. (This is the italki page. You can receive $10 USD italki Credits in your Student Wallet within 48 hours after you make your first purchase.) ☆Would you like to take my class? I’d love to help you start your Japanese learning journey! Book a trial lesson directly through my website: https://meg-smile.com/lesson/ （If it’s your first time, please book a trial lesson to get started.） | |||
| #41 Short story / トイレの女の子《A girl in the restroom》/ Urban Legends / Horror // N5 Level / Japanese listening | 26 Jun 2023 | 00:05:35 | |
Today’s episode is “トイレの女の子（toire no on’nanoko）”《A girl in the restroom》. This story is based on urban legends from various parts of Japan, and a little scary story. This episode is JLPT-N5 level. I created a quiz on this episode. After listening, please take the quiz! Please use this audio for listening and shadowing practices. ☆Words☆ 教室（きょうしつ）：classroom 思（おも）い出（だ）す：remember 聞（き）こえる：be heard やっぱり：after all 急（いそ）いで：hurry 怖（こわ）い：scary 心配（しんぱい）：worry 手（て）を洗（あら）う：wash one's hands ☆Conjugation of verbs☆ ・te-form：（ています／てください／てから） ・nai-form ・plain-form ☆Script for this episode https://meg-smile.com/41-short-story-a-girl-in-the-restroom/ ☆Quiz for this episode ※Need to register (free) with italki. ☆If you haven’t used italki, click the link below. (This is the italki page. You can receive $10 USD italki Credits in your Student Wallet within 48 hours after you make your first purchase.) ☆Would you like to take my class? | |||
| #40 最近、がんばっていること // N3 Level /Japanese listening | 18 Jun 2023 | 00:04:07 | |
みなさん、ひさしぶりです。 この半年間、私はずっとがんばっていることがあります。 今日は、そのことを話します。 Hi everyone, long time no see! There is something I’ve been working hard on for the past six months. Today, I’d like to talk about it. This episode is JLPT-N3 level. Please use this audio for listening and shadowing practices. ☆Words☆ 日本語能力試験（にほんごのうりょくしけん）：Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) 法律（ほうりつ）：law 繰り返し（くりかえし）：repeat ☆Script for this episode https://meg-smile.com/40-ganbatteiru-n3-level/
☆If you haven’t used italki, click the link below. (This is the italki page. You can receive $10 USD italki Credits in your Student Wallet within 48 hours after you make your first purchase.) ☆Would you like to take my class? I’d love to help you start your Japanese learning journey! Book a trial lesson directly through my website: https://meg-smile.com/lesson/ （If it’s your first time, please book a trial lesson to get started.） | |||
| #71 Japan’s Schindler Chiune Sugihara // Upper Beginner Japanese Listening | 09 Dec 2025 | 00:33:20 | |
🌸 About this video Welcome to my Japanese listening series for upper beginners! In this episode, you’ll learn about Chiune Sugihara (杉原千畝) – the Japanese diplomat often called “Japan’s Schindler” – who helped thousands of Jewish refugees escape during World War II by issuing life-saving transit visas. The story is told in simple Japanese (Upper Beginner / JLPT N4 level) with clear narration, so you can practice listening while learning about an important part of history. This video is perfect for: ・Upper beginner learners (around JLPT N4) ・Learners who enjoy story-based Japanese ・People interested in Japanese history and real heroes ・Anyone who wants to build listening skills with meaningful content | 📚 Level Upper Beginner (JLPT N4) Clear and natural narration using N4-level grammar. Some vocabulary is more advanced, but the story is told slowly and clearly for learners. | 🕒 Chapters 00:00 Opening (オープニング) 00:03 Introduction (イントロダクション) 00:51 Childhood in Gifu（子どものころ） 01:41 Languages and Diplomatic Career（外国語と外交官の道） 02:48 Lithuania and Refugees（リトアニアと難民） 07:39 Life-Saving Visas and Difficult Choices（命のビザと杉原さんの決断） 10:13 Life after the War（戦後のつらい生活） 11:22 “Thank You” – Meeting the Survivors（ありがとうと言われた日） 13:03 Question Time (しつもんの時間) 13:09 Question Time Part 1 (しつもん①～⑧) 16:14 Question Time Part 2 (しつもん⑨～⑯) 19:11 Replay Guide (How to Listen / 聞き方の説明) 19:18 Listen Again Without Subtitles (字幕なしでもう一度ストーリーを聞こう) 31:40 Ending (エンディング) | 💡 Learning Tips ✔️ First, watch with subtitles and focus on the story and emotions. ✔️ Then, listen again without subtitles to test your listening. ✔️ Pause after each question and answer out loud. ✔️ Try shadowing short sentences, especially the important lines from Sugihara’s words. ✔️ Think about the message of the story: What does “doing the right thing” mean to you? | 📄 Study Materials The full script (with/without furigana) and the vocabulary list are available as a paid study PDF on Ko-fi. 👉 https://ko-fi.com/s/6d65ee8ce9 | ☕ Support My Channel If you enjoy my content, consider supporting me on Ko-fi. Your support helps me continue creating high-quality Japanese learning materials 💖 👉 https://ko-fi.com/megsmile | 🏯 About Meg I am a certified Administrative Scrivener (immigration lawyer) in Japan and a Japanese teacher who creates storytelling-based learning materials for beginners. Immigration services (visa support): 👉 https://www.trust-gyosei.com/immigration-en/ | Note: Some images and scenes in this episode are AI-generated or conceptual illustrations created for learning purposes. They are designed to help learners understand the story and are not historical photographs. | 🎵 Images, Videos & Music Credits CANVA: https://www.canva.com/ MotionElements: https://www.motionelements.com/ Adobe Stock: https://stock.adobe.com/jp/ Wikimedia Commons (Public Domain) BGMer: http://bgmer.net | #JapaneseListening #EasyJapanese #LearnJapanese #JapaneseForBeginners #JLPTN4 #UpperBeginnerJapanese #ComprehensibleJapanese #StorytellingJapanese #MegSmile #ChiuneSugihara #JapaneseSchindler #JapaneseHistory #ListeningPractice | |||
| #39 Japanese culture / 七五三の歴史《The history of Shichi-go-san》 // N3 Level /Japanese listening | 15 Nov 2022 | 00:03:53 | |
I’ll introduce Japanese culture in easy Japanese. Today’s Theme is “七五三の歴史《The history of Shichi-go-san》”. This episode is JLPT-N3 level. I created a quiz on this episode. After listening, please take the quiz! Please use this audio for listening and shadowing practices. ☆Words☆ 七五三（しちごさん）：Shichi-go-san is an annual Japanese festival to celebrate the growth of children. It takes place on or around November 15. The festival is for boys aged three and five, and girls aged three and seven. That’s why it is called shichi-go-san (seven-five-three). お祝（いわ）い：celebration 成長（せいちょう）：growth 中旬（ちゅうじゅん）：middle of a month 江戸時代（えどじだい）：Edo period (1603-1868 CE) 剃（そ）る：shave 袴（はかま）：man's formal divided skirt 帯（おび）：belt (e.g. of a kimono) 千歳飴（ちとせあめ）：longevity candy, long red-and-white stick candy On shichi-go-san, children eat long red-and-white stick candy, called chitose ame. Chitose means “one thousand years.” It symbolizes health and longevity. ☆Script for this episode https://meg-smile.com/39-shichi-go-san-n3-level/ ☆Quiz for this episode ※Need to register (free) with italki. ☆If you haven’t used italki, click the link below. (This is the italki page. You can receive $10 USD italki Credits in your Student Wallet within 48 hours after you make your first purchase.) ☆Would you like to take my class? I’d love to help you start your Japanese learning journey! Book a trial lesson directly through my website: https://meg-smile.com/lesson/ （If it’s your first time, please book a trial lesson to get started.） | |||
| #38 紅葉 / Autumn colors // N4 Level /Japanese listening | 29 Oct 2022 | 00:03:29 | |
Today’s Theme is “紅葉（こうよう）《Autumn colors》”. This episode is JLPT-N4 level. I created a quiz on this episode. After listening, please take the quiz! Please use this audio for listening and shadowing practices. ☆Words☆ 紅葉狩り（もみじがり / momijigari）：This is a yearly event for many Japanese people in Autumn. The word “Momiji” in Momiji-gari means Autumn colours, and “gari” means hunting. Japanese people go out to parks and mountains where they can see lots of trees in their Autumn colors – yellows, oranges and reds, and simply enjoy the beautiful change of seasons from Summer to Autumn. お花見（おはなみ / ohanami）：Ohanami is a traditional Japanese custom in spring. At a cherry blossom viewing party, people get together under cherry blossom trees and enjoy eating and drinking. 嵐山（あらしやま / arashiyama）：Arashiyama is an area in the western part of Kyoto City. The mountain named Arashiyama at an altitude of 382 meters in the western part of Kyoto City, the surrounding mountains, and the foot of the mountain are generally called Arashiyama. At the foot of Arashiyama, there are many historical temples, shrines, and historic sites, making it a famous tourist destination. 上旬（じょうじゅん / jōjun）：at the beginning of the month 中旬（ちゅうじゅん / chūjun）：in the middle of the month 下旬（げじゅん / gejyun）：at the end of the month 日光（にっこう / nikkō）：Nikko is a town located in Tochigi Prefecture. Tochigi prefecture is an inland prefecture located in the northern part of the Kanto region. Nikko has many old-style buildings, and it is registered as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage. 新幹線（しんかんせん / shinkansen）：bullet train ☆Script for this episode ☆Quiz for this episode ※Need to register (free) with italki. ☆If you haven’t used italki, click the link below. (This is the italki page. You can receive $10 USD italki Credits in your Student Wallet within 48 hours after you make your first purchase.) ☆Would you like to take my class? I’d love to help you start your Japanese learning journey! Book a trial lesson directly through my website: https://meg-smile.com/lesson/ （If it’s your first time, please book a trial lesson to get started.） | |||
| #37 わたしの まち《My town》 // N5 Level / Japanese listening | 19 Oct 2022 | 00:03:57 | |
Today’s Theme is わたしのまち《My town》”. This episode is JLPT-N5 level. I created a quiz on this episode. After listening, please take the quiz! Please use this audio for listening and shadowing practices. ☆Words☆ 最近（さいきん / saikin）：recently 風邪を 引く（かぜをひく / kaze o hiku）：catch a cold 紹介する（しょうかいする / shōkaisuru）：introduce 福岡（ふくおか / Fukuoka）：Fukuoka (city) ※Fukuoka prefecture is located in the north of Kyushu, the southernmost of the four major Japanese islands. 九州（きゅうしゅう / Kyūshu）：Kyushu (southernmost of the four main islands of Japan) 東（ひがし / higashi）：east 祭り（まつり / matsuri）：festival 花火大会（はなびたいかい / hanabi taikai）：fireworks festival 神社（じんじゃ / jinja）：shrine 笑顔（えがお / egao）：smile 不便な（ふべんな / fuben na）：inconvenient ☆Script for this episode https://meg-smile.com/37-my-town-n5-level/ ☆Quiz for this episode ※Need to register (free) with italki. ☆If you haven’t used italki, click the link below. (This is the italki page. You can receive $10 USD italki Credits in your Student Wallet within 48 hours after you make your first purchase.) ☆Would you like to take my class? I’d love to help you start your Japanese learning journey! Book a trial lesson directly through my website: https://meg-smile.com/lesson/ （If it’s your first time, please book a trial lesson to get started.） | |||
| #36 Japanese culture / 日本の温泉の歴史《The history of Onsen (Hot Springs) in Japan》 // N3 Level /Japanese listening | 05 Oct 2022 | 00:03:49 | |
I’ll introduce Japanese culture in easy Japanese. Today’s Theme is “日本の温泉の歴史《The history of Onsen (Hot Springs) in Japan》”. This episode is JLPT-N3 level. I created a quiz on this episode. After listening, please take the quiz! Please use this audio for listening and shadowing practices. ☆Words☆ 鹿（しか）：deer 鶴（つる）：crane (any bird of the family Gruidae, esp. the red-crowned crane, Grus japonensis) お坊（ぼう）さん：monk 仏教（ぶっきょう）：Buddhism 教（おし）え：teachings 鉄道（てつどう）を整備（せいび）する：build a railroad 露天風呂（ろてんぶろ）：an open-air spa ☆Script for this episode https://meg-smile.com/36-onsen-japan-n3-leve/ ☆Quiz for this episode ※Need to register (free) with italki. ☆If you haven’t used italki, click the link below. (This is the italki page. You can receive $10 USD italki Credits in your Student Wallet within 48 hours after you make your first purchase.) ☆Would you like to take my class? I’d love to help you start your Japanese learning journey! Book a trial lesson directly through my website: https://meg-smile.com/lesson/ （If it’s your first time, please book a trial lesson to get started.） ☆Reference☆ JAPAN ONSEN ASSOCIATION：https://www.spa.or.jp/ | |||
| #35 Easy News / ポテトチップスの袋《Plastic Bag of potato chips》 // N4 Level /Japanese listening | 25 Sep 2022 | 00:03:46 | |
Easy News📺 I introduce Japanese news in easy Japanese. Today’s Theme is “ポテトチップスの袋《Plastic Bag of potato chips》”. This episode is JLPT-N4 level. I created a quiz on this episode. After listening, please take the quiz! Please use this audio for listening and shadowing practices. ☆Words☆ 紙（かみ / kami）：paper プラスチック（ぷらすちっく / purasutikku）：plastic 環境（かんきょう / kankyō）：environment ～を守（まも）る（～o mamoru）：protect カルビー（かるびー / karubi-）：Calbee（Confectionery Company in Japan） 空気（くうき / kūki）：air 薄（うす）い（usui）：thin 商品（しょうひん / shōhin）：products 親指（おやゆび / oyayubi）：thumb ☆Grammar☆ ・～ために：in order to ・～そうです：heard ・～（よ）うと思う：be going to（This sentence pattern is used to talk about the speaker’s determinations or plans.） ☆Script for this episode https://meg-smile.com/35-potato-chips-n4/ ☆Quiz for this episode ※Need to register (free) with italki. ☆If you haven’t used italki, click the link below. (This is the italki page. You can receive $10 USD italki Credits in your Student Wallet within 48 hours after you make your first purchase.) ☆Would you like to take my class? I’d love to help you start your Japanese learning journey! Book a trial lesson directly through my website: https://meg-smile.com/lesson/ （If it’s your first time, please book a trial lesson to get started.） ☆Reference NHK NEWS WEB EASY https://www3.nhk.or.jp/news/easy/k10013826891000/k10013826891000.html NHK NEWS WEB https://www3.nhk.or.jp/news/html/20220920/k10013826891000.html | |||
| #34 Short story / こうもりの ともだち？《Who is the bat's friend?》/ Aesop's Fables // N5 Level / Japanese listening | 20 Sep 2022 | 00:05:23 | |
Today’s episode is “こうもり の ともだち？（kōmori no tomodachi?）”《Who is the bat's friend?》. This is from Aesop's Fables. This episode is JLPT-N5 level. I created a quiz on this episode. After listening, please take the quiz! Please use this audio for listening and shadowing practices. ☆Words☆ こうもり（kōmori）：bat 森（もり / mori）：forest 鳥（とり / tori）：birds 動物（どうぶつ / dōbutsu）：animals けんかをする（kenka o suru）：get in a fight 言う（iu）：say 空（そら / sora）：sky 飛ぶ（とぶ / tobu）：fly 牙（きば / kiba）：fang, tusk 爪（つめ / tsume）：nail 強い（つよい / tsuyoi）：strong 弱い（よわい / yowai）：weak 王様（おうさま / ōsama）：king 翼（つばさ / tsubasa）：wing 暗い（くらい / kurai）：dark 洞窟（どうくつ / dōkutsu）：cave ☆Grammar☆ ・～ことができます（～koto ga dekimasu）：can ～ ・～たら（～tara）：if ～ ☆Script for this episode https://meg-smile.com/34-bats-friends-n5/ ☆Quiz for this episode ※Need to register (free) with italki. ☆If you haven’t used italki, click the link below. (This is the italki page. You can receive $10 USD italki Credits in your Student Wallet within 48 hours after you make your first purchase.) ☆Would you like to take my class? I’d love to help you start your Japanese learning journey! Book a trial lesson directly through my website: https://meg-smile.com/lesson/ （If it’s your first time, please book a trial lesson to get started.） | |||
| #33 Japanese culture / 日本酒の歴史《The History of SAKE》 // N3 Level /Japanese listening | 12 Sep 2022 | 00:06:30 | |
I’ll introduce Japanese culture in easy Japanese. Today’s Theme is “日本酒の歴史《The History of SAKE》”. This episode is JLPT-N3 level. I created a quiz on this episode. After listening, please take the quiz! Please use this audio for listening and shadowing practices. ☆Words☆ 代表的（だいひょうてき）な：typical ～に夢中（むちゅう）になる：into ～ 「君（きみ）の名（な）は。」：”Your Name.” ※Your Name. is a Japanese film written and directed by Makoto Shinkai. 巫女（みこ）：shrine maiden 天皇（てんのう）：Emperor of Japan 免許（めんきょ）：license ☆Script for this episode https://meg-smile.com/33-history-of-sake-n3/ ☆Quiz for this episode ※Need to register (free) with italki. ☆If you haven’t used italki, click the link below. (This is the italki page. You can receive $10 USD italki Credits in your Student Wallet within 48 hours after you make your first purchase.) ☆Would you like to take my class? I’d love to help you start your Japanese learning journey! Book a trial lesson directly through my website: https://meg-smile.com/lesson/ （If it’s your first time, please book a trial lesson to get started.） | |||
| #32 私のペット / My pets // N4 Level /Japanese listening | 06 Sep 2022 | 00:05:38 | |
Today’s Theme is “私（わたし）のペット《My pets》”. This episode is JLPT-N4 level. I created a quiz on this episode. After listening, please take the quiz! Please use this audio for listening and shadowing practices. ☆Words☆ 飼う（かう / kau）：adopt a pet, have a pet 種類（しゅるい / shurui）：type 使い捨てカメラ（つかいすてかめら / tsukaisutekamera）：disposable camera 後悔する（こうかいする / kōkaisuru）：regret 八百屋（やおや / yaoya）：greengrocer 吠える（ほえる / hoeru）：bark 初代（しょだい / shodai）：first generation ～代目（～だいめ / ～daime）：～ generation ☆Grammar☆ ～ことにする ～ので ～ばよかった passive form ～ようになる ～んです ☆Script for this episode https://meg-smile.com/32-my-pets-n4/ ☆Quiz for this episode ※Need to register (free) with italki. ☆If you haven’t used italki, click the link below. (This is the italki page. You can receive $10 USD italki Credits in your Student Wallet within 48 hours after you make your first purchase.) ☆Would you like to take my class? I’d love to help you start your Japanese learning journey! Book a trial lesson directly through my website: https://meg-smile.com/lesson/ （If it’s your first time, please book a trial lesson to get started.） | |||
| #31 Japanese vocabulary Quiz / なん ですか。《What is it?》 / 3-hints quiz // N5 Level | 30 Aug 2022 | 00:04:20 | |
Today’s episode is Japanese vocabulary Quiz. I'll give 3 hints. Please answer in Japanese. This episode is JLPT-N5 level. Please use this audio for listening and shadowing practices. ☆Words☆ 言葉（ことば / kotoba）：vocabulary, word 考える（かんがえる / kangaeru）：think 答え（こたえ / kotae）：answer 苦い（にがい / nigai）：bitter 道（みち / michi）：road ☆Grammar☆ ・～たり、～たり ・～とき ☆Script for this episode https://meg-smile.com/31-3-hints-quiz-n5/ ☆Would you like to take my class? I’d love to help you start your Japanese learning journey! Book a trial lesson directly through my website: https://meg-smile.com/lesson/ （If it’s your first time, please book a trial lesson to get started.） | |||
| #30 Easy News / ユニークな自動販売機《Unique vending machine》 // N3 Level /Japanese listening | 25 Aug 2022 | 00:03:55 | |
Easy News📺 I introduce Japanese news in easy Japanese. Today’s Theme is “ユニークな自動販売機《Unique vending machine》”. This episode is JLPT-N3 level. I created a quiz on this episode. After listening, please take the quiz! Please use this audio for listening and shadowing practices. ☆Words☆ 自動販売機（じどうはんばいき / jidōhanbaiki）：vending machine ＊自販機（じはんき / jihanki）："自販機" is a shortened form of "自動販売機". 面倒な（めんどうな / mendōna）：troublesome 化粧品（けしょうひん / keshōhin）：cosmetics 見た目（みため / mitame）：appearance 特徴（とくちょう / tokuchō）：characteristics おごる（ogoru）：treat someone ＊おごり（ogori）："おごり" is the noun form of the word "おごる". ～を かざす（～o kazasu）：place, hold →カードをカードリーダーにかざす：place the card in front of the reader ☆Grammar☆ ・～たところ：when （※Use this grammar when describing a surprise or new discovery rather than an ordinary account of an event.） ☆Script for this episode https://meg-smile.com/30-unique-vending-machine-n3/ ☆Quiz for this episode ※Need to register (free) with italki. ☆If you haven’t used italki, click the link below. (This is the italki page. You can receive $10 USD italki Credits in your Student Wallet within 48 hours after you make your first purchase.) ☆Would you like to take my class? I’d love to help you start your Japanese learning journey! Book a trial lesson directly through my website: https://meg-smile.com/lesson/ （If it’s your first time, please book a trial lesson to get started.） | |||
| #70 New Edition：わたしの まち《My Town》 // Beginner Japanese Listening | 24 Nov 2025 | 00:13:13 | |
Welcome to the New Edition of my Japanese listening series for beginners! This video is a refreshed and expanded version of my earlier Episode #37 “わたしの まち《My Town》” (N5 Level). In this New Edition, I introduce my town in Fukuoka using simple Japanese (JLPT N5 level). | This video is perfect for: ・Japanese beginners (JLPT N5–N4) ・Learners who enjoy simple stories with clear narration ・Anyone who wants to improve listening comprehension naturally | Through this story, you’ll learn everyday Japanese vocabulary and expressions used to describe places, festivals, food, and daily life. | 📚 Level Beginner (JLPT N5) Clear, slow-paced narration with natural rhythm and simple grammar. | 🕒 Chapters 00:00 Opening (オープニング) 00:34 Story: My Town Introduction（ストーリー：わたしのまち紹介） 04:25 Question Time (しつもんの時間) 04:32 Question Time Part 1 (しつもん①～⑤) 06:19 Question Time Part 2 (しつもん⑥～⑪) 08:41 Replay Guide (How to Listen / 聞き方の説明) 08:48 Listen Again Without Subtitles (字幕なしでもう一度ストーリーを聞こう) 12:40 Ending (エンディング) | 💡 Learning Tips ✔️ Listen several times — your ears will gradually get used to natural Japanese. ✔️ Try shadowing short phrases aloud. ✔️ Answer the questions out loud to check your understanding. ✔️ Listen again without subtitles to build confidence. | 📄 Study Materials The full script (with/without furigana, Romaji) and the vocabulary list are available as a paid study PDF on Ko-fi. 👉 https://ko-fi.com/s/8bc8bb9dcd | ☕ Support My Channel If you enjoy my content, consider supporting me on Ko-fi. Your support helps me continue creating high-quality Japanese learning materials 💖 👉 https://ko-fi.com/megsmile | 🏯 About Meg I am a certified Administrative Scrivener (immigration lawyer) in Japan and a Japanese teacher who creates storytelling-based learning materials for beginners. Immigration services (visa support): 👉 https://www.trust-gyosei.com/immigration-en/ | Note: Some photos and videos in this episode are AI-generated or conceptual images created for learning purposes. | 🎵 Images, Videos & Music Credits CANVA: https://www.canva.com/ MotionElements: https://www.motionelements.com/ Adobe Stock: https://stock.adobe.com/jp/ irasutoya：https://www.irasutoya.com/ BGMer: http://bgmer.net | #JapaneseListening #EasyJapanese #LearnJapanese #JapaneseForBeginners #N5Japanese #ComprehensibleJapanese #StorytellingJapanese #MegSmile #Japan #JapaneseLanguage #ListeningPractice #MyTown #Fukuoka #JapaneseStudy | |||
| #29 Easy News / おきなわのサンゴ《Coral reefs of Okinawa》 // N4 Level /Japanese listening | 20 Aug 2022 | 00:03:40 | |
Easy News📺 I introduce Japanese news in easy Japanese. Today’s Theme is “沖縄（おきなわ）のサンゴ《Coral reefs of Okinawa》”. This episode is JLPT-N4 level. I created a quiz on this episode. After listening, please take the quiz! Please use this audio for listening and shadowing practices. ☆Words☆ 沖縄（おきなわ / okinawa）：Okinawa （Okinawa is the southernmost prefecture in Japan. And Okinawa is one of the most popular resorts in Japan. The islands of Okinawa are surrounded by beautiful coral reefs. ） サンゴ（さんご / sango）：coral reefs 守る（まもる / mamoru）：keep, protect 島（しま / shima）：island 石垣島（いしがきじま / ishigakijima）：Ishigaki Island （Ishigaki island is one of the islands of Okinawa. The world’s largest colony of rare blue coral is found off of Ishigaki island.） 植物プランクトン（しょくぶつぷらんくとん / shokubutsupurankuton）：phytoplankton 栄養（えいよう / eiyō）：nutrition ☆Script for this episode ☆Quiz for this episode ※Need to register (free) with italki. ☆If you haven’t used italki, click the link below. (This is the italki page. You can receive $10 USD italki Credits in your Student Wallet within 48 hours after you make your first purchase.) ☆Would you like to take my class? I’d love to help you start your Japanese learning journey! Book a trial lesson directly through my website: https://meg-smile.com/lesson/ （If it’s your first time, please book a trial lesson to get started.） ☆Reference NHK NEWS WEB EASY https://www3.nhk.or.jp/news/easy/k10013774471000/k10013774471000.html NHK NEWS WEB https://www3.nhk.or.jp/news/html/20220817/k10013774471000.html | |||
| #28 A day in the life of an Online Japanese Language Teacher // N5 Level | 17 Aug 2022 | 00:03:35 | |
Today’s Theme is “A day in the life of an Online Japanese Language Teacher”. This episode is JLPT-N5 level. I created a quiz on this episode. After listening, please take the quiz! Please use this audio for listening and shadowing practices. ☆Words☆ １日（いちにち / ichinichi）：one day 紹介する（しょうかいする / shōkaisuru）：introduce オンライン（おんらいん / onrain）：online 日本語教師（にほんごきょうし / nihongokyōshi）：Japanese language teacher ルーティン（るーてぃん / rūthin）：routine スマホ（すまほ / sumaho）：smart phone アニメーション（あにめーしょん / animēshon）：animation ストレッチ（すとれっち / sutorecchi）：stretch 化粧（けしょう / keshō）：make-up ラーメン（らーめん / rāmen）：ramen noodles チャーハン（ちゃーはん / chāhan）：Chinese-style fried rice 昼寝（ひるね / hirune）：nap ダイエットドリンク（だいえっとどりんく / daiettodorinku）：energy drinks designed to get rid of weight 味（あじ / aji）：taste 小説（しょうせつ / shōsetsu）：novel ☆Grammar☆ ・te-form ・～たり、～たりします ☆Script for this episode https://meg-smile.com/28-a-day-in-the-life-n5/ ☆Quiz for this episode ※Need to register (free) with italki. ☆If you haven’t used italki, click the link below. (This is the italki page. You can receive $10 USD italki Credits in your Student Wallet within 48 hours after you make your first purchase.) ☆Would you like to take my class? I’d love to help you start your Japanese learning journey! Book a trial lesson directly through my website: https://meg-smile.com/lesson/ （If it’s your first time, please book a trial lesson to get started.） | |||
| #27 夏休みの宿題 /summer homework // N3 Level | 15 Aug 2022 | 00:03:56 | |
Today’s Theme is “夏休みの宿題（なつやすみのしゅくだい）《summer homework》”. This episode is JLPT-N3 level. I created a quiz on this episode. After listening, please take the quiz! Please use this audio for listening and shadowing practices. ☆Words☆ 算数（さんすう）：mathematics 国語（こくご）：Japanese（national language） 問題集（もんだいしゅう）：workbook 遊園地（ゆうえんち）：amusement park 小説（しょうせつ）：story, novel 経験（けいけん）：experience ☆Grammar☆ ・～にとって：from the standpoint of 〜 ・～おかげで：thanks to ☆Script for this episode https://meg-smile.com/27-summer-homework-n3/ ☆Quiz for this episode ※Need to register (free) with italki. ☆If you haven’t used italki, click the link below. (This is the italki page. You can receive $10 USD italki Credits in your Student Wallet within 48 hours after you make your first purchase.) ☆Would you like to take my class? I’d love to help you start your Japanese learning journey! Book a trial lesson directly through my website: https://meg-smile.com/lesson/ （If it’s your first time, please book a trial lesson to get started.） | |||
| #26 高校野球 / The National High School Baseball Championship of Japan // N4 Level | 13 Aug 2022 | 00:03:38 | |
Today’s Theme is “高校野球（こうこうやきゅう）《The National High School Baseball Championship of Japan》”. This episode is JLPT-N4 level. I created a quiz on this episode. After listening, please take the quiz! Please use this audio for listening and shadowing practices. ☆Words☆ 高校野球（こうこうやきゅう / kōkōyakyū）： The National High School Baseball Championship of Japan, commonly known as "Summer Koshien", is an annual nationwide high school baseball tournament. It is the largest scale amateur sport event in Japan, even as soccer continues to gain more attention. 野球（やきゅう / yakyū）：baseball プロ野球（ぷろやきゅう / puroyakyū）：professional baseball 甲子園（こうしえん / kōshien）：Koshien (location of Koshien Stadium, where the Japan National High School Baseball Tournament is held) 野球場（やきゅうじょう / yakyūjō）：baseball stadium トーナメント（とーなめんと / tōnamento）：tournament 優勝する（ゆうしょうする / yūshōsuru）：win アマチュア（あまちゅあ / amachua）：amateur 感動する（かんどうする / kandōsuru）：be impressed 伝統的な（でんとうてきな / dentōtekina）：traditional ドラマチック（どらまちっく / doramachikku）：dramatic ☆Script for this episode https://meg-smile.com/26kokoyakyun4/ ☆Quiz for this episode ※Need to register (free) with italki. ☆If you haven’t used italki, click the link below. (This is the italki page. You can receive $10 USD italki Credits in your Student Wallet within 48 hours after you make your first purchase.) ☆Would you like to take my class? I’d love to help you start your Japanese learning journey! Book a trial lesson directly through my website: https://meg-smile.com/lesson/ （If it’s your first time, please book a trial lesson to get started.） | |||