Welcome to Sightseeing Japan! Join hosts Jason Nieling and Paul Bresin as they explore the land of the rising sun. New podcast episodes are released every other week covering a range of topics, from geisha to vending machines and everything in between.
The art of paper folding known as origami has become a popular activity all over the world. One of the most well-known origami models is that of the paper crane. Join Jason and Paul as they explore the world of origami!
Samurai are famous around the world for their impressive weapons and armor, their ferocity on the battlefield, and their code of honor. Join Jason and Paul as they explore the world of the samurai!
Tea has a long history in Japan and is now the country's most commonly drunk beverage. Join Jason and Paul as they explore the many varieties of Japanese tea!
Traditional Japanese architecture is famous around the world for its minimalistic beauty and harmony with nature. Join Jason and Paul as they explore the unique qualities of Japanese architecture!
Hokkaido is the second largest main island of Japan as well as the largest and northernmost prefecture. Join Jason and Paul as they explore the nature, food, and culture of the Hokkaido region!
Japan is home to all sorts of interesting cafes, from cat cafes to maid cafes and beyond. Join Jason and Paul as they explore the many types of experiences you can have at Japanese cafes!
Join Jason and Paul as they discuss 20 helpful travel tips!
Join Jason and Paul as they discuss Jason’s recent two-week trip to Japan!
Join Jason and Paul as they discuss Jason's recent two-week trip to Japan!
Sightseeing Japan is excited to announce the Gachapon Giveaway! The first ten listeners to review the podcast will receive a free gachapon! To enter, follow these two simple steps: (1) Submit a review of Sightseeing Japan to any podcast provider where it is available. (2) Send an email to feedback [at] sightseeingjapanpodcast.com. Be sure to include (i) your review, (ii) the name of the podcast provider where you submitted your review, and (iii) your mailing address.
Bamboo is an extremely versatile plant and a symbol of Japanese culture. It can be used as a material for construction and handicrafts and can even be eaten! Join Jason and Paul as they explore the fascinating world of bamboo!
New Year is the most important holiday in Japan and is celebrated with various unique customs. Join Jason and Paul as they explore the traditions of the Japanese New Year!
Japanese swords are considered by many to be the best cutting weapons in world military history. Join Jason and Paul as they explore the reasons why Japanese swords are famous around the world!
Matsuri are traditional festivals that have been held in Japan for centuries. Join Jason and Paul as they explore the history of Japanese festivals as well as the delicious food and wild events that can be found there!
Sushi is a popular Japanese dish that has spread throughout the world. Join Jason and Paul as they explore the delicious world of sushi! Topics Covered: What is Sushi? History Types: Makizushi — Nigirizushi — Chirashizushi — Inarizushi — Old Styles (Oshizushi/Hakozushi/Narezushi) — Uramaki Ingredients: Sushimeshi (Rice) — Nori (Seaweed) — Toppings — Condiments Presentation...
Kimono are traditional Japanese garments that can be worn for many different occasions and with many different types of related accessories. Join Jason and Paul as they explore the world of traditional Japanese fashion! Topics Covered: What is a Kimono? History How are Kimono Made? Cost How to Wear a Kimono Variations: Yukata — Furisode — Iromuji — Mofuku — Junihitoe Footwear and Accessories...
The Japanese archipelago is frequently subjected to earthquakes. Join Jason and Paul as they explore the ways in which Japan has adapted to withstand the effects of earthquakes! Topics Covered: What is an Earthquake? History Preparedness in Japan How to Survive
Japanese castles are strategic defensive fortresses, but they were also built to be visually striking and impressive. Join Jason and Paul as they explore the history, architecture, and defensive capabilities of Japanese castles! Topics Covered: History Architecture: Location — Main Keep (Tenshukaku) — Walls/Moats/Baileys — Yagura (Guard Towers) — Gates How to Attack a Japanese Castle Visiting Castles Today...
Drinking plays an important part in Japanese society. Join Jason and Paul as they explore the world of Japanese alcoholic beverages and drinking culture! Topics Covered: History Drinking Culture: Konpa — Nomikai — Etiquette — Social Impact Types of Beverages: Nihonshu (Sake) — Beer — Shochu — Chuhai — Umeshu — Wine — Whisky Where to Drink
Japanese folklore is full of supernatural beings and spirits. Join Jason and Paul for this special Halloween episode as they explore the world of yurei and yokai, Japanese ghosts and monsters! Topics Covered: History What are Yokai? What are Yurei? Halloween in Japan
Did you know that the Japanese language uses three distinct writing systems? Join Jason and Paul as they explore the history and complexities of the Japanese language! Topics Covered: How is the Japanese Language Structured? History Writing Systems: Kanji — Hiragana — Katakana — Romaji How to Learn Japanese
Japan has a higher density of vending machines than any other country in the world. Join Jason and Paul as they explore the world of automated purchases! Topics Covered: Why are Vending Machines so Popular in Japan? History What They Sell How to Pay Technology
Japanese gardens are famous around the world for their ability to convey peace, harmony, and tranquility through the art of landscaping. Join Jason and Paul as they explore the ancient art of Japanese gardening! Topics Covered: History Elements of Japanese Gardens: Water — Stone — Bridges — Fish — Lanterns — Water Basins — Plants — Islands Aesthetic Principles: Miniaturization — Concealment — Borrowed Scenery — Asymmetry...
Geisha are symbols of Japanese culture, beauty, and femininity. Join Jason and Paul as they discuss the magical "flower and willow world" of geisha! Topics Covered: What are Geisha? History How to Become a Geisha: Skills/Training — Maiko (Apprentice Geisha) — Appearance Where to Experience Geisha Culture
Sumo is an ancient martial art and the national sport of Japan. Join Jason and Paul as they explore the wild world of sumo wrestling! Topics Covered: History Sumo in Modern Japan How to Become a Rikishi (Sumo Wrestler) Sumo Match: Dohyo (Platform) — Attire — Rules — Prizes
Mount Fuji is a symbol of Japan and is one of the most famous volcanoes in the world. It even ties into the origins of the Shinto religion! Join Jason and Paul as they explore this beloved landmark. Topics Covered: Cultural Significance How to Climb What to Bring What Will You See? Aokigahara (Suicide Forest)
Temples and shrines are everywhere in Japan, but did you know that they are two distinct types of structures belonging to different religions? Join Jason and Paul as they discuss the significance of temples and shrines throughout the history of Japan! Topics Covered: Buddhism Shinto How is Religion Practiced History Buddhist Temples: Etiquette — Gardens — Jizo — Cemeteries — Omikuji (Fortune Telling) Shinto Shrines: Torii Gate — Chozuya (Purification Basin) — Honden (Main Hall) — Ema (Wooden Pla...
Convenience stores in Japan have everything you could ask for! Join Jason and Paul as they discuss the convenience stores of Japan and why they are among the best in the world. Topics Covered: Food: Bread — Onigiri (Rice Balls) — Sandwiches — Bento — Instant Noodles — Sushi — Fruits and Veggies — Hot Foods — Snacks — Beverages Other Products Services: ATM — Multi-Use Terminal — Free Wifi — Takuhaibin (Delivery Services)...
Japan is known for having incredible cuisine! Join Jason and Paul as they discuss all kinds of Japanese food and where to find it! From fugu to okonomiyaki, there’s something for everyone! Topics Covered: Rice Traditional Food Tsukemono (Pickles) Sushi Noodles: Soba — Udon — Ramen Okonomiyaki Bento (Boxed Lunch) Tofu Yakitori (Skewered Chicken) Yakiniku (Grilled Meat) Curry Kaiseki Kobe Beef Shabu Shabu Tonkatsu (Pork Cutlet) Fugu (Pufferfish) Beverages: Tea — Beer — Sake — Whisky — Wine Eating ...
