Japan Station: Deep Dives into Japanese Culture, Language & Society
Japan Station is a podcast that explores Japanese culture, language, and society in depth. Hosted by Tony R. Vega, also known as The Anime Linguist, the show features expert interviews and detailed discussions on topics ranging from linguistics and history to food, travel, and pop culture. It also shares stories from foreigners living in Japan, offering perspectives beyond typical guidebooks. Each episode aims to deliver insight, humor, and useful information for anyone interested in Japan.
Episodes
He Cycled the Length of Japan! Here's What Happened
On this episode of Japan Station, we're talking about what it's like to cycle the entire length of Japan with journalist Oscar Boyd. 👉Topics Discussed Why Japan is so great for cycling About transporting a bike from the UK to Japan About biking from Kagoshima to the northernmostpoint of Japan over the course of 28 days Why Oscar decided to start his cycling trip from Mount Kaimon in Kagoshima Ab
Japan TURNS ON Foreign Residents?! Jake Adelstein on Takaichi's Immigration Policies
On this episode of Japan Station, Jake Adelstein joins us to discuss immigration policy in Japan and why the Takaichi government has decided to make it more difficult for foreigners to get permanent residency. 👉Topics Discussed Why you (probably) will never get permanent residence in Japan The ill-defined changes to requirements for permanent residency in Japan Why the changes to permanent resid
How to insult Japan's BRAIN ROT generation (ドパガキ)
On this episode of Japan Station, we're talking about the recently created Japanese word dopagaki (ドパガキ). What does it mean and what are its origins? Listen to find out! 👉Topics Discussed The meaning and origin of dopagaki What does dopajita (ドパ舌) mean? What does doparu mean? What does zonbisukurōru (ゾンビスクロール) mean? And much more 👉Subscribe to the Podcast! Apple Podcasts: https://itunes.app
These English words CAN'T be translated into Japanese
On this episode of Japan Station, we're talking about English words that are tricky to translate into Japanese. 👉Topics Discussed English words that are surprisingly difficult to translate into Japanese How to say jaywalking in Japanese How to say zesty in Japanese How to say touch grass in Japanese And much more 👉Subscribe to the Podcast! Apple Podcasts: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast
The Kumamoto earthquake is HEARTBREAKING! How to help
On this episode of Japan Station, I talk about the 2926 Kumamoto earthquake and how you can help. 👉Topics Discussed The effects of the Reiwa Year 8 Kumamoto earthquake How to help and where you can donate And much more! 👉Subscribe to the Podcast! Apple Podcasts: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/japan-station-a-podcast-by-japankyo-com/id1440454968 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6l
Crazy ways to survive Japan's BRUTAL summer heat
On this episode of Japan Station, we talk about some of the more creative ways people in Japan are battling the intense summer heat. 👉Topics Discussed What is kokushōbi (酷暑日) How kokushōbi was decided via a survey About the Dohiemon Box/Human Refrigerator About Mandom's "Sweat Management" seminars About ice cream holders About the parasol curtain from Three Coins that makes you look like a Heian
Inside an Intense Sushi Training Course in Tokyo
On this episode of Japan Station, we talk about what it's like doing an intensive sushi preparation course with Travin Keith, owner of Sushi Kita in Belfast, Northern Ireland. 👉Topics Discussed Where Miyagi Prefecture is located What it was like trying to open a ramen shop in Kosovo The problems with trying to open a ramen shop in Kosovo Why Travin decided to learn how to prepare sushi in Japa
What you need to know about FAMIRESU!
This episode is a re-broadcast of episode 61 of the Ichimon Japan podcast (originally released 6/21/22). On this episode of Ichimon Japan we ask: What is a famiresu? Topics Discussed What famiresu are The characteristics of famiresu (family restaurants) About the history of famiresu in Japan The first famiresu in Japan (Skylark) Some of the most popular famiresu in Japan About Big Boy and how it'
Why life in Miyagi is DIFFERENT!
On this episode of Japan Station, we talk about the unique cultural and geographic quirks of life in Miyagi Prefecture. 👉Topics Discussed Where Miyagi Prefecture is located The population of Miyagi Prefecture Miyagi's mild weather What izui means What is gyūtan (牛タン) About Sada Keishiro and the origins of gyūtan (beef tongue) How most people in Sendai rarely if ever eat gyūtan What is zundamochi
What the hell is JUNE sickness? (rokugatsubyō, 六月病) | Japan Station 217
On this episode of Japan Station, we talk about "May sickness" and "June sickness." What are these sicknesses? Are they real? Should you be concerned? ðŸ'‰Topics Discussed What is gogatsubyÅ (äº"津病) What is rokugatsubyÅ (å…月病) The origin of "May sickness" Why April-June has a reputation for being a stressful time of year in Japan Why June sickness is stupid Why June is thought to be a p
Who started the Japanese soccer fan trash clean up custom?
On this episode of Japan Station, we talk about the origins of the famous custom of Japanese World Cup soccer/football fans cleaning stadiums after a match is over. Where did this custom originate? Who started it? Why do they use blue garbage bags? We talk about all that and more! 👉Topics Discussed The history of the Japanese soccer/football fan cleaning up trash custom Why Korean soccer fans ma
He climbed Japan's 100 FAMOUS mountains
On this episode of Japan Station, we're joined by the first confirmed American to climb Japan's "100 famous mountains" (hyakumēzan, 百名山): Wes Lang. We also talk about his experiences climbing Japan's tallest mountains and more. 👉Topics Discussed About climbing Japan's hundred famous mountains (hyakumēzan, 百名山) Animal encounters while climbing mountains in Japan Memorable experiences while hiking
The good and bad of the JET Program
This is a rebroadcast of Ichimon Japan episode 47 (originally released 07/07/21). On this episode of Ichimon Japan we ask: What was good and bad about your JET experience? Topics Discussed What the JET Programme is The various positions available to JET applicants Some troubles experienced while on the JET Programme Rural placements Japan's shrinking population On getting placed in Yamagata Prefe
Food you GOTTA try in Fukushima!
On this episode of Japan Station, we're talking about food you have to eat the next time you visit Fukushima. 👉Topics Discussed About the Grand Van Gogh Exhibit About the Pokemon Astronomical Observatory About Koriyama Black Ramen What a "cream box" is What is Fukushima Buruburu The history of Fukushima Buruburu And much more! 👉Subscribe to the Podcast! Apple Podcasts: https://itunes.apple.
Why life in Fukushima is DIFFERENT!
On this episode of Japan Station, we're talking about Fukushima Prefecture! We're focusing on the geography, cultural quirks, language and food. 👉Topics Discussed About the geography of Fukushima Prefecture Where Fukushima is located About the three regions of Fukushima: Aizu, Nakadōri, Hamadōri About the stereotypes of the people of the three regions of Fukushima What is Mamadōru About the Fuku
The Virgin Mary inspired him to make a film in Japan
On this episode of Japan Station, filmmaker Cuauhtemoc Velazquez joins us to talk about Apparition, his new short film about a Tokyo izakaya that gets visited by the Virgin Mary. 👉Topics Discussed What Apparition is about What inspired Cuauhtemoc Velazquez to make Apparition Japan's loose but respectful relationship with religion About making a short film in Japan About renting a film set in Jap
Tokyo is FED UP with tourists dumping their trash
On this episode of Japan Station, we're talking about how there's been an increase in the number of tourists from overseas who are dumping their suitcases in the Ikebukuro area of Tokyo. We also talk about what you can do if you need to dispose of your suitcase when visiting Japan. 👉Topics Discussed Foreign tourists are dumping their suitcases illegally in the Ikebukuro area of Tokyo Japan's co
What's it like being a fake priest in Japan? | Japan Station 209/Ichimon Japan 04
This is a rebroadcast of Ichimon Japan episode 04 which originally was released on 2/12/2020. Today's Question On this episode of Ichimon Japan we ask: What's it like being a fake priest in Japan? Topics Discussed What a nisebokushi is The different terminology for priests in Japanese (shinpu vs bokushi) The phenomenon of having foreigners dress as priests to officiate weddings in Japan How most
Why fans of the supernatural should visit Iwate Prefecture | Japan Station 208
On this episode of Japan Station, we're talking about Hanamaki and Tōno, two cities in Iwate prefecture known for being great places to visit if you're a fan of the supernatural and fantastic. 👉Topics Discussed How to get to Hanamaki City from Tokyo Station How long the bullet train to Iwate from Tokyo takes About traveling by train from Hanamaki to Tōno About Tōno City and its spooky/supernatur
Why life in Iwate is DIFFERENT! | Japan Station 207
On this episode of Japan Station, we're talking about Iwate Prefecture! We're focusing on the geography, general stats, language and food. 👉Topics Discussed Where Iwate Prefecture is About Iwate Prefecture's large size and sparse population About the weather of Iwate Prefecture About the dialects of Iwate Prefecture About Fukuda Pan/Fukuda Bread, it's history and its many varieties About wanko s
A guide to MOVING in Japan | Japan Station 206/Ichimon Japan 73
This ia rebroadcast of epsode 73 of Ichimon Japan originally released on 7/21/23. On this episode of Ichimon Japan we ask: What is it like moving in Japan? Topics Discussed About what it's like moving in Japan When people in Japan usually move What it costs to move in Japan Why people in Japan usually move in March Expenses associated with moving in Japan About rent prices in Japan Rent subsidies
He's walked 30,000+ km across Japan! | Japan Station 205
On this episode of Japan Station, we're joined by Jake Davies, a resident of Shimane Prefecture who has walked over 30,000 km in Japan. He talks about his experiences walking around Japan and what it's like living in Shimane, one of Japan's least populated prefecture. 👉Topics Discussed Why Jake Davies moved to Shimane Prefecture What it's like living in rural Shimane Prefecture Why Jake Davies s
This Japanese pilgrimage should be more famous! A 5-day trip to the Kumano Kodō (plus crazy conbini socks) | Japan Station 204
On this episode of Japan Station, travel writer Jennifer Bain joins us to talk about one of Japan's most ancient and famous pilgrimages: the Kumano Kodō (熊野古道). We also talk about Japanese convenience stores and the famous conbini socks. 👉Topics Discussed What the Kumano Kodō (熊野古道) is How to get the Kumano Kodō (熊野古道) is An example of a five day itinerary on the Kumano Kodō (熊野古道) pilgrimage Ab
The ORIGINS of "scammy" SAKURA | Japan Station 203
On this episode of Japan Station, we're talking about the origins of the word sakura. No not that sakurai. The other sakura. The scammy kind of sakura. Also we're talking about madorā. 👉Topics Discussed The possible origins of the word sakura (サクラ) Why sakura means a fake "scammy" customer What a madorā is And much more! 👉Subscribe to the Podcast! Apple Podcasts: https://itunes.apple.com/
Why breakfast deals in Japan are CRAZY now | Japan Station 202
On this episode of Japan Station, we're talking about the rise of Japan's $3.5 billion breakfast industry and why Japan is currently in the midst of it's 4th "breakfast boom." 👉Topics Discussed What a typical Japanese breakfast consists of The history of breakfast in Japan Breakfast in the Edo Period Breakfast in Edo vs Kansai during the Edo Period Japan's four "Morning Booms" What 'morning" (モー
Akihabara is DYING? How Ikebukuro Became Japan's New Otaku Capital | Japan Station 201
On this episode of Japan Station, we're joined by Dr. Patrick W. Galbraith to talk about the current status of Akihabara and the rise of Ikebukuro as Japan's newest capital of all things anime, manga and otaku culture. 👉Topics Discussed Whether Akihabara is dying The history of Akihabara How Akihabara has evolved in recent years What locals think of Akihabara today How Mercari has impacted Akiha
Is Yamaguchi cursed to have"ugly" girls? (Places in Japan Known for "Beautiful" & "Ugly" Women) | Japan Station 200/Ichimon Japan 50
This is a re-broadcast of an episode originally released on 8/21/21. On this episode of Ichimon Japan we ask: Is Yamaguchi cursed to have "ugly" girls? We also discuss other places in Japan known for having many beautiful/ugly women. Topics Discussed The three most scenic views in Japan What the Sandaibijin (三大美人) is What places in Japan are most known for having beautiful women Fukuoka (Hakata),
What is a shijūkata? (Age related Japanese words) | Japan Station 199
On this episode of Japan Station, we're talking about interesting words related to aging and shoulders and a weird ECC commercial. 👉Topics Discussed 四十肩ō And much more! 👉Subscribe to the Podcast! Apple Podcasts: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/japan-station-a-podcast-by-japankyo-com/id1440454968 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6lDoFFt4M0HyyKaVeDyKkB 👉Support on Patreon & Ko-fi
Why Akita women are so beautiful (and other info about life in Akita) | Japan Station 198
On this episode of Japan Station, we're talking about what life in Akita Prefecture is like AND why women from Akita are (supposedly) so beautiful! 👉Topics Discussed Where Akita Prefecture is in relation to other prefectures in the Tohoku region About Akita's famous Kinman Why people in Akita like to say they've eaten 28 Kinman About how rural Akita is About the high number of bear attacks and f
Why you should visit YAMAGATA! | Japan Station 197
On this episode of Japan Station, Alex Litz of Expedition Japan joins us to talk about tourism in Japan, Yamagata Prefecture and places/events to check out during a visit to Yamagata. 👉Topics Discussed How Alex ended up in Yamagata Prefecture About studying abroad in Yamagata Prefecture About tourism in Japan What's so great about Yamagata? Places to visit in Yamagata Yamagata food Events and fe
How do Japanese names work? | Japan Station 196/Ichimon Japan 28
This is a re-release of Ichimon Japan episode 28. On this episode of Ichimon Japan we ask: How do Japanese names work? Topics Discussed How people in Japan normally state their family name before their given name The complicated history of naming practices in Japan Commoners being prohibited from using family names during the Edo Period The Meiji era laws that mandated every Japanese person take
What the hell does "depakosu" mean? | Japan Station 195
On this episode of Japan Station, I talk about two peculiar words depakosu and puchipura. Also i talk a bit about the origin of the name of the anime Odd Taxi. 👉Topics Discussed What depakosu (デパコス) means What puchipura (プチプラ) means The origin of the name of the anime Odd Taxi (オッドタクシー) And much more! 👉Subscribe to the Podcast! Apple Podcasts: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/japan-stati
Why life in Aomori is so DIFFERENT | Japan Station 194
On this episode of Japan Station, we talk about some of the unique aspects of living in Aomori Prefecture. 👉Topics Discussed What it's like living in Aomori Prefecture About the Shimokita Peninsula Why life in Aomori can be so inconvenient What "English Toast" is (igirisu tōsuto, イギリストースト) What igirisu tōsuto is About the history of igirisu tōsuto Why people in Aomori throw peanuts at oni on Set
The CRAZIEST Taishō era slang EXPLAINED! | Japan Station 193
On this episode of Japan Station, we go through a list of some of the most unique and interesting slang of Japan's Taishō period (1912-1926). 👉Topics Discussed Popular Taishō era slang How polie during the Taishō era used to say moshi moshi Why it was an insult to call someone Mitsukoshi during the Taishō era What it was like during the Taishō era Taishō era youth culture What a gomu geta was Wh
10 Reasons You'll Hate Living in Japan. Really? | Japan Station 192
On this episode of Ichimon Japan we ask: 10 Reasons You'll Hate Living in Japan. Really? Topics Discussed Reasons why you may hate living in Japan No trash cans Why there are few public trash cans in Japan Where to find trash cans in Japan Whether it's rude to walk while eating or drinking in public in Japan Lack of soap in public restrooms Individually wrapped items About not being able to have
Okuribito: Mortician or millionaire? What does it mean? | Japaan Station 191
On this episode of Japan Station, I break down the two very different meanings of the word okuribito. 👉Topics Discussed About the 2008 Japanese film Departures (Okuribito) What does okuribito mean? What does おくりびと mean? What does okuribito 億り人 mean? The Japanese slang term okuribito Why it is more difficult to become an "okuribito" in Japan now And much more! 👉Subscribe to the Podcast! Ap
How charcoal is saving this rural Japanese town (Ami Eldridge of Sumizumi LLC) | Japan Station 190
On this episode of Japan Station, I talk to Ami Eldridge, the co-founder of Sumizumi LLC, a company in rural Kochi Prefecture trying to revitalize the area through charcoal production. 👉Topics Discussed About Ami Eldridge's efforts to revitalize rural Kochi Prefecture About the Niyodo Town and Niyodogawa River area About how Sumizumi LLC is using charcoal and akiya (abandoned houses) to revitali
Why "religion" in Japan doesn't make sense (to Westerners): A Talk with Hiroko Yoda | Japan Station 189
On this episode of Japan Station, author Hiroko Yoda joins us to talk about the complexities of religious and spirituality in Japan, a topic she covers in her new book Eight Million Ways to Happiness. 👉Topics Discussed Why Hiroko Yoda was told to tell people she's Buddhist before going to the U.S. to study abroad About "Yaoyorozu no kami" About the history of the word for religion (shūkyō, 宗教) i
What you should know about KUMAMON (+ my CRAZY Kumamon story) | Japan Station 188
On this episode of Japan Station, we talk all about Jaan's most famous "local mascot" Kumamon. We cover everything you should know about Kumamoto's most beloved bear. I also share an absolutely crazy story that happened to me when I went to see the Kumamon show in Kumamoto in the fall os 2025. 👉Topics Discussed About Kumamon How Kumamon was created The history of Kumamon Who created Kumamon How
Understanding Christmas in Japan (About Japanese Christmas) | Japan Station 187/Ichimon Japan 67
This is a re-broadcast of episode 65 of the Ichimon Japan podcast (originally published on 12/21/2022). On this episode of Ichimon Japan we ask: What is Christmas like in Japan? (About Japanese Christmas) Topics Discussed All about Christmas in Japan Japanese Christmas customs in Japan All about fried chicken and Christmas in Japan Why KFC is the thing to eat during Christmas in Japan How Christm
Hanakin: What does it mean? (Dead Japanese Slang) | Japan Station 186
On this episode of Japan Station, I dig into the world of dead Japanese Bubble Era slang. Specifically, I talk about the term hanakin (花金). Also I talk about the days of the week during World War II in Japan. 👉Topics Discussed What is hanakin What hanakin means About the kanji used to write hanakin How I learned the days of the week in Japanese How there were no weekends during World War II in J
He WALKED 3200 km across ALL of JAPAN! (Sensei Martian) | Japan Station 185
On this episode of Japan Station, Sensei Martian talks about what it was like walking 3200 km from Cape Sata, the southernmost point on mainland Japan, to Cape Soya, the northernmost point on mainland Japan. 👉Topics Discussed About the Kyushu Challenge Why Sensei Martian decided to walk 3200 km/3000 miles+ across Japan About walking the old Tokaido Road About walking from the southern end of Jap
I walked across KYUSHU! Here's what happened (Kyushu Challenge Wrap Up) | Japan Station 184
On this episode of Japan Station, I talk about the Kyushu Challenge, my recent 558 km walk from Iwakuni, Yamaguchi to Sakurajima, Kagoshima. 👉Topics Discussed About the Kyushu Challenge The route I took to walk from Iwakuni in Yamaguchi Prefecture to Sakurajima in Kagoshima Prefecture About how a restaurant owner gave me money How I appeared on TV in Yamaguchi Prefecture About kawara soba About
How I got my CHEAPEST Japan ticket EVER! | Japan Station 183
On this episode of Japan Station, I talk about how I was able to save money on airfare for my latest trip to Japan. I also share how I almost lost money due to a luggage issue and I talk about why regional JR passes can save you lots of money while traveling in Japan. 👉Topics Discussed How I get the cheapest plane ticket to Japan ever About smartfares.com Why you should check how many bags you a
The STUPIDEST belief about Japanese sleep habits EVER! (About Pillows in Japan) | Japan Station 182/Ichimon Japan 76
This is a rebroadcast of episode 76 of Ichimon Japan. On this episode of Ichimon Japan we talk about the history of pillows in Japan and an absurd belief regarding the sleeping Topics Discussed About the history of pillows in Japan About early pillows in Japanese history About the evolution of pillows in Japan About pillows during the Edo Period About hakomakura (box pillows) About the oldest pil
How Japanese terms get abbreviated! Explaining 4 MORA words | Japan Station 181
On this episode of Japan Station, we're talking about 4 more words in Japanese. What's a mora? And why are there so many four mora words in Japanese? We talk about all taht and more! 👉Topics Discussed What is a mora? What's the difference between a mora and a syllable The possible origins of nikujaga How Japanese love to shorten terms to four mora/four kana The possible origin of the word jagaim
Tokyo Tourist Traps: Are these popular Tokyo destinations worth your time? | Japan Station 180
On this episode of Japan Station, we talk about some of Tokyo's most popular tourist sites. Are they tourist traps or worth your time? We're also joined by stand up comedian and tour guide Shuhei "Shoe" Murakami. 👉Topics Discussed Is Tokyo Skytree a tourist trap? Should you visit it? Should you visit Tokyo Tower? Should you visit Tokyo Disneyland? Is it a tourist trap? Is Tokyo Disneyland expens
Party in TOKYO! (November 1st at Pintology Tokyo)
Hey guys! I'm holding another get together in Tokyo. This time it's to celebrate the end of the Kyushu Challenge. It will be on Nov 1st at 6 pm at Pintology Tokyo! Here is Pintology Tokyo's Instagram https://www.instagram.com/pintologytokyo/ I'll be back soon enough with the usual programming!
What is wasei eigo? (Funny "Japanese" English) | Japan Station 179/Ichimon Japan 71
This episode was originally broadcast as an episode of Ichimon Japan. On this episode of Ichimon Japan we ask: What is wasei eigo? (Funny "Japanese" English) Topics Discussed What wasei eigo is About English sounding words made in Japan tenshon ga takai pākā How SNS is not English arubaito nōtopasokon buraindotacchi misu misesu rippukurīmu hocchikisu OL sararīman (salaryman) shīchikin interi hais
Why LIES are RED in Japanese (Japanese idioms that use 赤/red) | Japan Station 178
On this episode of Japan Station, we're talking about Japanese idioms involving the color red (赤, aka, seki). For example, have you ever wondered why lies are red in Japanese? Listen to find out! 👉Topics Discussed Japanese idioms involving the color red Why 真っ赤なウソ/makka na uso means a "complete lie" and what the color red has to do with lies Also discussing other idioms such as sekirara About t
This documentary reveals why Japan is the way it is?! (Ema Ryan Yamazaki) | Japan Station 177
On this episode of Japan Station, we're joined by documentary filmmaker Ema Ryan Yamazaki to talk about her latest documentary The Making of a Japanese and her latest short documentary Instrument of a Beating Heart. During the conversation we focus on the making of these films, what makes Japanese elementary schools unique, the role Japanese elementary schools play in shaping Japanese society, and
Supernatural Japan: A Spooky & Fun Japan Podcast!
Check out the links below for more Supernatural Japan episodes! Supernatural Japan Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/supernatural-japan/id1616675498 Supernatural Japan Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/35FkGE7Kc9bXFGpt37ZF2y
How a Brit ended up designing FONTS in Japan | Japan Station 176
On this episode of Japan Station, we're talking about the history of font design in Japan, the history of the Nintendo font and how Daniel Kaihatsu became a type face designer in Japan. 👉Topics Discussed Why Daniel Kaihatsu became interested in learning Japanese How Daniel Kaihatsu became interested in Japanese font design About doing research for videos in Japanese language About copyright and
What's so scary about the hour of the ox? (About Ushi no Koku Mairi) | Japan Station 175/Ichimon Japan 21
This was originally broadcast as episode 21 of Ichimon Japan. On this episode of Ichimon Japan we ask: What's so scary about the hour of the ox? Topics Discussed All about Japan's old way of telling time that was based on the 12 animals of the Chinese Zodiac (eto) Which "animals" in the old Chinese Zodiac based way of telling time correspond to which hours in the modern way of telling time Why th
Kaze 風 vs Kaze 風邪! What's the difference?! | Japan Station 174
On this episode of Japan Station, we're talking about the difference between the Japanese word kaze (cold, 風邪) and kaze (wind, 風). Why do they share the same pronunciation? Are they related? Or is this all just a big coincidence? Listen to find out! 👉Topics Discussed About visiting Japan for the first time What the difference between kaze (風邪) and kaze (風) is The history of the words kaze and ka
What to know BEFORE you move to Japan: SIM cards, phone numbers & more (Mobal CEO Declan Somers) | Japan Station 173
On this episode of Japan Station, we're talking about some of the annoying things people have to deal with when moving to Japan. Our guest this time is the CEO of Mobal, Declan Somers. 👉Topics Discussed About visiting Japan for the first time About moving to Japan and working in a Japanese company in the late '90s Japan in the '90s versus Japan today About job possibilities for foreigners in Jap
He SURVIVED a BEAR encounter in Japan! Talking about hiking in Tohoku with GoNorth Japan | Japan Station 172
On this episode of Japan Station, we're talking to Quinlan from the GoNorth Japan YouTube channel about surviving a bear encounter in Japan, hiking in the Tohoku area of Japan and more. 👉Topics Discussed About bear attacks and encounters in Japan How to prevent encounters with bears while hiking in Japan Whether bear bells and whistles are effective in warding off bears About Quiinlan's encounte
Tales from the Tokaido Road: About the Tokaido Challenge | Japan Station 171/Ichimon Japan 78
On this episode of Japan Station we ask: What was it like walking the Tokaido Road? NOTE: This is a re-broadcast of episode 78 of the Ichimon Japan podcast. Topics Discussed About the Tokaido Challenge About what it was like walking the Tokaido Road About the challenges of walking the Tokaido Road About what it was like walking from Kyoto to Tokyo About getting stopped by police in Kyoto About wa
ANOTHER GIVEAWAY!!
Follow me on Instagram and leave a comment on one of my latest post for a chance to win one of two $3 a month PLUS ALPHA tier Patreon memberships! @tonyrvega on Instagram: https://instagram.com/tonyrvega
DON'T do these 8 things on trains in JAPAN! | Japan Station 170
On this episode of Japan Station, we're talking about train etiquette in Japan. We're covering a recent Japanese survey that lists the 8 most irritating things people do on trains in Japan. 👉Topics Discussed Eight things you shouldn't do on Japanese trains A survey indicating eight annoying things people do on Japanese trains How people in Japan deal with annoying things people do on Japanese tr
Shikoku's 88 Temple Pligrimmage: What You Should KNOW (Kevin Tarpey) | Japan Station 169
On this episode of Japan Station, Kevin Tarpey joins us to talk about what it was like doing Shikoku's famous 88 Temple Pilgrimmage and why Japan is such a great place for long-distance walking. 👉Topics Discussed Why Japan is such a great place for long-distance walking About the famous Shikoku 88 temple pilgrimmage (Ohenro, お遍路) What it's like walking the 88 temple pilgrimmage How long it took
She moved to this Japanese island to FARM INDIGO?! (Sally Hancox of AiAii) | Japan Station 168
On this episode of Japan Station, we learn about traditional Japanese indigo dyeing from Sally Hancox, one of the co-owners of AiAii Worshop & Shop on Awaji island. This is a conversation to dye for! Sorry, I couldn't help myself. 👉Topics Discussed About AiiAii Worshop & Shop About the aizome (indigo dyeing) process About farming and preparing indigo for dyeing Why Sally Hancox ended up farming
How Japanese scandals EXPLODE! (Igor Prusa) | Japan Station 167
On this episode of Japan Station, we talk about scandals in Japan. My guest Dr. Igor Prusa tells about how scandals in Japan work, how they surface and how entertainers/business people/politicians who get caught in scandals try to deal with them. This is a truly SCANDALOUS episode. Sorry, couldn't resist. 👉Topics Discussed The characteristics of a Japanese scandal About the Noriko Sakai scandal
Why do Japanese train stations do that? | Japan Station 166/Ichimon Japan 03
This episode was originally released as episode 3 of the Ichimon Japan podcast. Today's Question On this episode of Ichimon Japan we ask: Why do Japanese train stations do that? Topics Discussed The train system in rural areas versus urban areas in Japan Trains in Kagoshima and Ishikawa What a Wanmanressha (one man trains) is Unmanned rural train stations Why Japanese train stations use cute song
WHICH is CORRECT? Funiki vs Fuinki (雰囲気) | Japan Station 165
On this episode of Japan Station, we talk about the Japanese word funiki (雰囲気) and other words that aren't read the way they are written. 👉Topics Discussed About the Japanese word funiki (雰囲気) What the correct way to read/pronounce funiki is Whether you should read funiki as fun'iki （ふんいき) or fuinki (ふいんき) Why so many people pronounce funiki incorrectly About words like manin (満員) and zenin (全員)
Do Japanese people have longer intestines than Westerners? | Japan Station 164/Ichimon Japan 02
This episode of Japan Station is a rebroadcast of episode two of Ichimon Japan. On this episode of Ichimon Japan we ask: Do Japanese people have longer intestines than Westerners? Topics Discussed Whether Japanese people have longer intestines than Westerners The idea that longer intestines are a result of the Japanese people having a diet centering around rice, grains, and vegetables The inconsi
The REAL Reason Japan doesn't have public TRASH CANS! They're LYING TO YOU! | Japan Station 163
On this episode of Japan Station, we talk about why there's so few trash cans in public places in Japan. Despite what many sources say the 1995 sarin gas attack in Tokyo is not the reason there are so few trash cans in public places in Japan. It's actually more complicated than that. While yes, it is true that there was a reduction in the amount of trash cans in some places in Japan--particularly
Why are vegetables so insulting in Japanese? | Japan Station 162/Ichimon Japan 14
This episode of Japan Station is a rebroadcast of Ichimon Japan episode 12. On this episode of Ichimon Japan we ask: Why are vegetables so unsulting in Japanese? On this episode we are honored to once again be joined by Kyle Broyles of the Tokyo Splosion podcast and Hard Officers YouTube channel. Topics Discussed Some funny Japanese vegetable-based insults and their (supposed) etymologies What th
What is "PLUS ALPHA?" The Meaning & Origin of the Japanese term purasu arufa/プラスアルファ | Japan Station 161
On this episode of Japan Station, I break down what the Japanese term "plus alpha" (purasu arufa/プラスアルファ) means and its possible origins. 👉Topics Discussed What does "plus alpha" (purasu arufa/プラスアルファ) mean? How you use the Japanese term purasu arufa プラスアルファ The most popular etymology of the term of purasu arufa Real world examples of purasu arufa in use About what puramaizero means (プラマイゼロ) And
The HISTORY of SUSHI (Dr. Eric C. Rath) | Japan Station 160
On this episode of Japan Station, Dr. Eric C. Rath joins us to talk all about the history of what may be Japan's most famous cuisine: SUSHI! We discuss its origins, evolution and more! 👉Topics Discussed Where sushi came from Fermented sushi The meaning of sushi Sushi's Chinese origins Shiga Prefecture's funazushi Sushi in the Edo period Sushi in Japan's post war period Sushi in modern times Abou
I'm Walking Across KYŪSHŪ! About the Kyūshū Challenge | Japan Station 159
On this episode of Japan Station, I talk about my upcoming walk across the island of Kyushu. This fall I will be walking roughly 500 km from Iwakuni in Yamaguchi Prefecture all the way down to Kagoshima as part of what I'm calling the Kyushu Challenge, part three of my ongoing Blind Japan Project. Listen to find out more and please consider coming on as a sponsor or supporting in any way you can!
Japanese Street Merchant Slang: 10 Words from Japan's Edo Merchants | Japan Station 158
On this episode of Japan Station, we're talking about Japanese slang that traces its roots back to Edo and Meiji era street vendors. We're digging into the origins of words like deka, mappo, and even the infamous yabai. 👉Topics Discussed The etymology/origins of 10 words that trace their origins back to the Edo and Meiji Periods About the meaning and origins of sakura (サクラ) About the origins of
What are gyaru? (About the Slang, Fashion and History of Japan's Gyaru/Gal) | Japan Station 157/Ichimon Japan 52
This episode of Japan Station is a re-broadcast of episode 52 of Ichimon Japan. On this episode of Ichimon Japan we ask: What are gyaru? Topics Discussed What the term gyaru/gal means/refers to About the word gyaru How the word gyaru was used in Dragonball by Master Roshi What a kogyaru/kogal is About the singer Namie Amuro and her role in popularizing the gyaru subculture About Ayumi Hamasaki'
Telling Time in the Edo Period! Obscure Japanese Vocabulary & Etymology | Japan Station 156
On this episode of Japan Station, we're talking about vocabulary and phrases related to telling time during the Edo Period! This is a surprisingly deep and interesting topic no matter whether you're learning Japanese or not! 👉Topics Discussed What does oyatsu mean? (おやつ) What the origin of the word oyatsu is About the Edo Period time system How to tell time during Japan's Edo Period The names of
Japan's DEADLY Treat: MOCHI Explained! | Japan Station 155
On this episode of Japan Station, we're talking about one of Japan's most iconic foods: mochi. Learn all about the history, lore and consumption practices of this important Japanese food! 👉Topics Discussed About the history and origins of mochi What mochi is About how people eat mochi in Japan About yukimi daifuku/ice cream mochi About kagami mochi Where the word mochi might have come from About
Supernatural Stories from JAPAN (Kevin O'Shea) | Japan Station 154
On this episode of Japan Station, supernatural stories, Japanese folklore, Japanese urban legends and more with Kevin O'Shea, host of the Supernatural Japan podcast. 👉Topics Discussed About the Supernatural Japan podcast About Ikuta Shrine's ghost story About the forest behind Ikuta Shrine in Kobe About exploring spooky places in Japan About the Hakkoda Mountain incident About auspicious animals
Eikaiwa vs JET vs University Teaching: Which is the better English teaching job in Japan? | Japan Station 153 (Rebroadcast)
Originally released on 3/21/2024 as pisode 80 of Ichimon Japan. On this episode of Ichimon Japan we talk about what the best kind of English teaching in Japan is: Eikaiwa, JET Programme (ALT) or university teacher. Topics Discussed What it is like working in an eikaiwa school in Japan What the salary is for an eikaiwa teacher The good and bad about working at an eikaiwa school (private language s
How a J-Pop Star's Stomach Hair Resulted in a NEW Japanese Word (The Origins of Gyarandu/ギャランドゥ) | Japan Station 152
On this episode of Japan Station, I dig into the history of a fascinating example of Japanese slang: gyarandu (ギャランドゥ). This is a Japanese word that means refers to the patch of hair some people have between their belly button and public area. Often called "happy trail" or "belly/stomach hair," in English, gyarandu has a really interesting history that goes back to one of Japan's most popular 1980
Preserving Japan's SHOKUNIN Culture (Michael Magers) | Japan Station 151
On this episode of Japan Station, I talk to photographer and journalist Michael Magers. Michael has spent over a decade documenting shokunin (artisans/crafworkers) across Japan. During that time has has had many extremely unique expriences such as ama divers, participating in Osaka's infamous Danjiri Festival, and getting tattooed by a traditional Japanese tattoo artist. He talks about those exper
What it's like running a bar in TOKYO! (Pintology Craft Beer & Whisky) | Japan Station 150
On this episode of Japan Station, I talk to Kyle Broyles of Pintology Craft Beer & Whisky in Tokyo. In this interview we talk about what it's like running a bar in Tokyo, starting a business in Tokyo, Japanese craft beer and more. 👉Topics Discussed About Pintology Craft Beer & Whisky About running a craft beer bar in Tokyo Japanese craft beer in Tokyo Growing a business in Tokyo Organic marketin
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