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.
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!...
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!
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...
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!...
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...
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! ...
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!...
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...
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!...
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!...
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...
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!...
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 ...
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!...
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...
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...
With its pristine natural scenery and picturesque countryside, Japan is home to extraordinary hiking trails. Join Jason and Paul as they explore the best multi-day hiking trails in the country! Topics Covered: Hokkaido Daisetsuzan Grand Traverse Michinoku Coastal Trail Basho Trail Kanto Fureai no Michi Nakasendo Trail Kamikochi-Yari-Hotaka Circuit Nakahechi Trail (Kumano Kodo) Shikoku Pilgrimage Kunisaki Trek Okinawa North to South Traverse Safety Tips Join our Discord community! Become a member...
Hiroshima is the capital of Hiroshima Prefecture and the largest city in the Chugoku region of Japan. Nearby is the island of Miyajima (Itsukushima) which is famous for its “floating” torii gate. Join Jason and Paul as they explore the history of this area as well as the many things to see and do there! Topics Covered: History Mazda Zoom Zoom Stadium Mazda Museum Shukkeien Garden Hiroshima Castle Hiroshima Museum of Art Atomic Bomb Dome Peace Memorial Park: Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum — Chil...
The ume is a fruit commonly referred to in English as the “Japanese plum”. Join Jason and Paul as they discuss its cultural significance and the many ways that this fruit is enjoyed in Japan! Topics Covered: History Ume Flowers Umeboshi Umeshu Other Uses Join our Discord community! Become a member on Patreon!...
Ninja, also known as shinobi, were skilled mercenaries in feudal Japan who were hired for a variety of purposes, from espionage to assassination. Join Jason and Paul as they explore the roles that ninja played throughout Japanese history! Topics Covered: History What were Ninja Hired for? Skills Clothes and Equipment Supernatural Abilities How Can You Defend Against a Ninja? Where to Find a Ninja Experience in Japan: Ninja Tokyo Restaurant — Edo Wonderland — Odawara Fuma Ninja Festival — Jidai A...
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: Day 15: Nikko (Taiyuin, Futarasan Jinja, Nikko Toshogu Shrine, Rinnoji, Kanmangafuchi Abyss) Day 16: Nikko (Kegon Falls, Lake Chuzenji Sightseeing Trail) Day 17: Kinugawa (Edo Wonderland, Tobu World Square) Day 18: Tokyo (Tanuki Street, Kappabashi Street, Sogenji, Hitachino Brewing Lab) Day 19: Tokyo (Yanaka Ginza, Animate Ikebukuro, S...
Changes are coming in October 2023 for the JR Pass. Join Jason and Paul as they discuss the changes and their impact on the value of the pass! Affiliate Links: JR Pass Regional Passes Fare Calculator Join our Discord community! Become a member on Patreon!...
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: Day 8: Kagoshima (Sengan-en) Day 9: Sakurajima (Hotel Rainbow Sakurajima) Day 10: Kagoshima (Museum of the Meiji Restoration, Reimeikan, Cave of Saigo Takamori, Shiroyama Park Observation Deck) Day 11: Kitakyushu (Kokura Castle, Yasaka Shrine, TOTO Museum, Aru Aru City, Manga Museum) Day 12: Osaka (Sakuranomiya Park/Shrine, America-mu...
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: Day 1: Flights Day 2: Onomichi (Temple Walk. Senkoji Park) Day 3: Shimanami Kaido (Dolce Ice Cream, Kosanji, Hill of Hope, I-Link Hostel & Cafe Shimanami) Day 4: Shimanami Kaido (Fuu, Michi-no-Eki, Dolphinfarm Shimanami, Sunrise Itoyama) - Matsuyama (Nagasaka) Day 5: Matsuyama (Matsuyama Castle, Dogo Onsen, Dogo Beer Hall, Dogo Sho...
Nara is widely known for its friendly deer, but did you know it’s also the ancient capital of Japan? Join Jason and Paul as they explore the many things to do and see in Nara! Topics Covered: History Central Nara: Heijo Palace —Toshodaiji Temple — Yakushiji Temple — Horyuji Temple Deer Nara Park: Kofukuji Temple — Nara National Museum — Yoshikien Garden — Isuien Garden — Todaiji Temple — Kasuga Taisha Shrine (Manyo Botanical Gardens, Mt. Kasuga Primeval Forest) — Wakakusayama — Shinyakushiji Tem...
Planning a trip to a foreign country can be a daunting task. Join Jason and Paul as they walk step by step through the planning process for their spring 2023 Japan trip! Topics Covered: Where to Start Passport/Visa Budget Booking a Flight Booking Hotels Assembling an Itinerary Finishing Touches
Come hang out with with Jason and Paul! All listeners are invited. If you happen to be in Tokyo on April 5th, 2023, stop by for a drink and a chat! Details: When: April 5th, 2023 at 7:00pm Where: Hitachino Brewing Lab in Akihabara, Tokyo ( Google Maps )( Website )...
Join Jason and Paul as they interview Miyuki Seguchi, licensed travel guide and host of the Japan Experts podcast! Find Miyuki Seguchi Online: Grab the FREE Japan Travel Guide: The 7 steps to creating your unique immersive experience Learn more about her Japan travel program the Japan Travel Essentials Website Facebook Group Instagram Japan Experts Podcast...
Martial arts have a long history in Japan, and over time they have evolved to integrate philosophical and religious ideas with the physical aspects of warfare. Join Jason and Paul as they explore the wide world of Japanese martial arts! Topics Covered: History Koryu Bujutsu: Sumo — Jujutsu — Swordsmanship (Kenjutsu, Battojutsu, Iaijutsu) — Naginatajutsu — Sojutsu — Shinobi no Jutsu Gendai Jutsu: Judo — Kendo — Iaido — Aikido — Kyudo — Karate — Shorinji Kempo Concepts: Aiki — Kokoro — Courtesy — ...
Jason and Paul will be in Japan in April and are announcing a meetup event in Tokyo! All listeners are invited. If you happen to be in Tokyo, stop by for a drink and a chat! Details: When: April 5th, 2023 at 7:00pm Where: Hitachino Brewing Lab in Akihabara, Tokyo ( Google Maps )( Website )...
