Japan might be known for its sushi and ramen, but its street food scene is just as exciting. From takoyaki and taiyaki to yakitori and beyond, join Jason and Paul as they dive into some of Japan’s best street eats — and share where to find them! Topics Covered: Takoyaki Yakitori Ikayaki Taiyaki Yakisoba Yaki-imo Yaki Tomorokoshi Tako Tamago Karaage Kobe Beef Gyoza Korokke Senbei Soft Cream Kakigori Dango Crepes Choco Banana Boba Where to Find Street Food Join our Discord community! Become a memb...
Jun 02, 2025•1 hr 32 min•Ep. 145
Japan is full of things to love - and a few things that might drive you a little crazy. Join Jason and Paul as they discuss the best and worst aspects of exploring Japan! Topics Covered: Planes Trains Hotels Food Walkable Cities Convenience Politeness Customer Service Bathrooms Onsen History Hiking City Life Join our Discord community! Become a member on Patreon!...
May 19, 2025•1 hr 18 min•Ep. 144
Known as the "City of Trees," Sendai is the largest city in the Tohoku region and a great place to learn about the culture and history of northeastern Honshu. Join Jason and Paul as they explore the city and uncover the story of its founder—a samurai with the coolest nickname ever. Topics Covered: History Loople Sendai: Zuihoden — Sendai City Museum — Sendai Castle — Tohoku University Museum of Natural History — Miyagi Museum of Art — Osaki Hachiman Shrine — Jozenji-dori — Sunmall Ichibancho Sho...
May 05, 2025•1 hr 25 min•Ep. 143
Japan is home to a variety of fascinating — and sometimes terrifying — bugs and insects, from summer’s singing cicadas to giant hornets and everything in between. Join Jason and Paul as they dive into the world of Japan’s bugs—both the beloved and the infamous! Topics Covered: Cultural Significance Famous Bugs: Cicadas — Giant Hornets — Fireflies — Stag Beetles — Rhinoceros Beetles — Silkworms Seasonal Bugs: Butterflies — Dragonflies — Crickets Common Pests: Mosquitoes — Cockroaches — Centipedes...
Apr 21, 2025•1 hr 32 min•Ep. 142
Japan offers a wide range of unique experiences, from cherry blossom viewing and high-speed train rides to exploring ancient temples and sampling the local cuisine. Join Jason and Paul as they rate and discuss some common experiences that visitors are likely to have in Japan! Topics Covered: Konbini Temples and Shrines Hanami Maid Cafes Hiking Eating Shopping Shinkansen Arcades Japanese Gardens Join our Discord community! Become a member on Patreon!...
Apr 07, 2025•1 hr 30 min•Ep. 141
Jason and Paul recently returned home from a trip to Japan. Join them as they discuss their itinerary and recount their third week of sightseeing! Topics Covered: Kamikochi Matsumoto: Matsumoto Castle — Yabuhara to Narai-juku — Matsumoto City Museum — Nawate Shopping Street — Nakamachi Shopping Street — Daio Wasabi Farm — Ishii Miso — Agatanomori Park Omiya: Omiya Bonsai Village — The Railway Museum Tokyo: Shibuya Parco — Rainbow Karaoke Shibuya — THE MUSIC BAR -CAVE SHIBUYA- — Mount Takao — Mei...
Dec 23, 2024•2 hr•Ep. 140
Jason and Paul recently returned home from a trip to Japan. Join them as they discuss their itinerary and recount their second week of sightseeing! Topics Covered: Nagoya: Coffee House Kako — Nagoya Castle — The Tokugawa Art Museum — SCMAGLEV and Railway Park Inuyama: Showa Alley — Dondenkan (Matsuri Museum) — Inuyama Castle — Urakuen — Momotaro Shrine Hikone: Hikone Castle — Genkyuen — Rakurakuen — Yume Kyobashi Castle Road Omihachiman: Kawara Museum — Hachimanyama Ropeway — Borderless Art Muse...
Dec 09, 2024•1 hr 35 min•Ep. 139
Jason and Paul recently returned home from a trip to Japan. Join them as they discuss their itinerary and recount their first week of sightseeing! Topics Covered: Kumano Kodo: Kii-Tanabe — Guest House Kiyohime — Takijiri Oji — Chikatsuyu — Guest House MUI — Kumano Hongu Taisha — Yunomine Onsen — Minshuku Yunosato Osaka: Shin-Osaka Station — Tempozan Ferris Wheel — Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan — Naniwa Kuishinbo Yokocho — Namba Parks Nagoya: Atsuta Jingu — Shirotori Garden — Osu Shopping Street — Osu ...
Nov 25, 2024•1 hr 15 min•Ep. 138
Ancient Japanese folktales offer a window into the philosophies and culture of Japan. Join Jason and Paul as they share and discuss two timeless tales that have been passed down through the centuries! Topics Covered: Ubazakura Rokurokubi Jiu-Roku-Zakura The Goblin of Adachigahara Join our Discord community! Become a member on Patreon!...
Nov 11, 2024•1 hr 9 min•Ep. 137
Japan may be one of the safest countries in the world, but that doesn’t mean it’s without its share of chilling and horrific crimes. Join Jason and Paul as they delve into some of the most shocking cases in Japan’s history. Topics Covered: Junko Furuta Issei Sagawa Kobe Child Murders Nevada-Tan Ninja of Heisei Podcast Meetup 2024: Nov 6th, 2024 at 7:00pm at Commune on the rooftop of the Shibuya Parco shopping mall in Tokyo. Take the elevator to the 9th floor and then take the escalator to the ro...
Oct 28, 2024•1 hr 2 min•Ep. 137
Kyoto and Osaka offer countless attractions, but venturing beyond these cities for day trips can unveil another side of Japan. Join Jason and Paul as they explore the diverse experiences waiting just outside Kansai’s largest metropolis! Topics Covered: Nara (Ep112) Hiroshima (Ep118) Kobe (Ep96) Uji Koyasan Himeji Okayama and Kurashiki Kurama and Kibune Nakasendo (Magome to Tsumago) Hikone Omi Hachiman Amanohashidate and Ine Nagoya Listener Mail: Ryokan Matsubaya — Shoseien Garden — Takase River ...
Oct 14, 2024•1 hr 10 min•Ep. 136
Japan has unique television programming that has gained a reputation internationally for being extremely wacky and sometimes even dangerous. Join Jason and Paul as they explore the wild world of reality TV and game shows in Japan! Topics Covered: What is TV like in Japan? Denpa Shonen Terrace House Old Enough Iron Chef Takeshi’s Castle Wafu Sohonke (Japanese Style Originator) Youtube Segments: Zoo Prank — Candy or Not — Falling Elevator — AKBingo — Bicyclist — Massage Chair Prank — Brain Wall Ca...
Sep 30, 2024•1 hr 25 min•Ep. 135
Ancient Japanese folktales offer a window into the philosophies and culture of Japan. Join Jason and Paul as they share and discuss two timeless tales that have been passed down through the centuries! Topics Covered: The Stones of Five Colors and the Empress Jokwa Momotaro, or the Story of the Son of a Peach Podcast Meetup 2024: Nov 6th, 2024 at 7:00pm at Commune on the rooftop of the Shibuya Parco shopping mall in Tokyo. Take the elevator to the 9th floor and then take the escalator to the roof...
Sep 16, 2024•1 hr 17 min•Ep. 134
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 Aoniyos...
Sep 02, 2024•1 hr 5 min•Ep. 134
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 Join our Discord community! Become a member on Patreon!...
Aug 19, 2024•1 hr 23 min•Ep. 133
Natto is one of Japan’s most divisive foods. Join Jason and Paul as they learn about — and sample — this slimy and smelly delicacy! Topics Covered: History How is Natto Made? Types of Natto How to Eat Natto Health Benefits Taste Test Where to Get Natto Join our Discord community! Become a member on Patreon!
Aug 05, 2024•56 min•Ep. 132
The city of Kanazawa is rich in history and culture, famous for its Edo-era districts and traditional crafts. Join Jason and Paul as they explore the many things to see and do in Kanazawa! Topics Covered: Check out our new itinerary store! History Omicho Market Oyama Shrine Nagamachi District: Kanazawa City Ashigaru Museum — Nomura-ke Samurai Residence — Kanazawa Shinise Memorial Hall — Maeda Tosanokami-ke Shiryokan Museum Myoryuji (Ninja Temple) Nishi Chaya District: Ninjabuki Museum — Dolls Mu...
Jul 22, 2024•1 hr 25 min•Ep. 131
Join Jason and Paul as they discuss various announcements and current events! Topics Covered: Season 5 Start Date Patreon Itinerary Store Podcast Meetup 2024: Nov 6th, 2024 at 7:00pm at Commune on the rooftop of the Shibuya Parco shopping mall in Tokyo. Take the elevator to the 9th floor and then take the escalator to the roof. Tourist Ban in Gion Shohei Ohtani Join our Discord community! Become a member on Patreon!...
May 27, 2024•41 min
Akihabara is a unique district in Tokyo, renowned for its many electronics stores and its status as a mecca for otaku culture enthusiasts. Join Jason and Paul as they explore the vibrant streets of Tokyo's iconic "electric town"! Topics Covered: History Electronics (e.g. Yodobashi Akiba, BicCamera AKIBA) Arcades (e.g. Namco Akihabara) Anime Shops (e.g. Akihabara Kotobukiya, Mandarake) Computer Shops (e.g. Tsukumo PC Honten) Maid Cafes (e.g. Maidreamin) Akihabara Dear Stage Little TGV Akihabara G...
Apr 08, 2024•1 hr 14 min•Ep. 130
Tokyo has all sorts of attractions to offer, but venturing outside the bustling city for a day trip can unveil another side of Japan. Join Jason and Paul as they explore the many diverse experiences that can be had just beyond Tokyo’s borders! Topics Covered: Kamakura and Enoshima (Ep72) Kawagoe (Ep46) Nikko (Ep80) Mt. Fuji (Ep10, also mentioned Arakurayama Sengen Park) Amusement Parks (Ep 94) Mt. Takao (Ep 119) Utsunomiya Hakone Odawara Omiya Yokohama Chiba Shizuoka Join our Discord community! ...
Mar 25, 2024•1 hr 14 min•Ep. 129
Mental health issues are part of the human experience, and Japan is not immune to the complexities and struggles that individuals face. Join Jason and Paul as they delve into some of the mental health concerns and social challenges that have gained attention in modern Japan. Topics Covered: History Suicide Karoshi Hikikomori Kodokushi Gomi Yashiki Join our Discord community! Become a member on Patreon!...
Mar 11, 2024•1 hr 17 min•Ep. 128
Sapporo, the capital of Hokkaido, is considered by many to be the most attractive city in Japan. As one of the snowiest cities in the world, it is also home to an extremely popular snow festival. Join Jason and Paul as they explore the many things to see and do in Sapporo! Topics Covered: History Central: Kani Honke — Sapporo Clock Tower — Odori Park — Tanukikoji Shopping Street — Nijo Market — Susukino — Ganso Ramen Yokocho — Sapporo Factory — Sapporo Beer Museum/Beer Garden Northeast: Moerenum...
Feb 26, 2024•1 hr 12 min•Ep. 127
Japan’s red-light districts have evolved over the centuries, but even today they offer a complex tapestry of nightlife, entertainment, and cultural nuances. Join Jason and Paul as they delve into the intriguing history, vibrant present, and often overlooked stories of Japan’s adult entertainment hubs. Topics Covered: History Types of Establishments Safety Join our Discord community! Become a member on Patreon!...
Feb 12, 2024•1 hr 16 min•Ep. 126
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 Join our Discord community! Become a member on Patreon!...
Jan 29, 2024•1 hr 22 min•Ep. 125
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...
Jan 15, 2024•1 hr 17 min•Ep. 124
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 Join our Discord community! Become a member on Patreon!...
Jan 01, 2024•1 hr 23 min•Ep. 123
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 ...
Dec 18, 2023•1 hr 23 min•Ep. 122
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 Join our Discord community! Become a member on Patreon!...
Dec 04, 2023•1 hr 22 min•Ep. 121
Japan is home to a wide variety of eerie and mysterious tales of the supernatural, many of which take place in everyday settings like schools, bathrooms, and train stations. Join Jason and Paul as they explore the unsettling world of Japanese urban legends! Topics Covered: Kisaragi Station Kuchisake Onna (The Slit-Mouthed Woman) Akai Heya (The Red Room Curse) Hitori Kakurenbo (One Man Hide & Seek) Teke Teke Toire no Hanako-san (Hanako of the Toilet) Ghost Taxi Passengers Aka Manto (Red Cloak...
Oct 30, 2023•1 hr 13 min
Visiting Japan with children can be an exciting and rewarding adventure, but it also raises unique challenges. Join Jason and Paul as they discuss tips and tricks to help make your experience as smooth and enjoyable as possible! Topics Covered: Planning: Hotels, attractions, meals, internet Packing: Stroller, food, supplies When In Japan: Transportation, food, navigation, attractions, entertainment, what to expect Join our Discord community! Become a member on Patreon! Affiliate Links: JR Pass F...
Aug 14, 2023•1 hr 10 min•Ep. 120
