Spill The Matcha

Fix your hair and check your lighting, because Spill the Matcha is officially on video! This week, Misato and Cherine hit a major milestone with their first-ever visual episode. But instead of celebrating quietly, Cherine drops a bomb that threatens the entire existence of the show: she absolutely, unconditionally detests matcha. Watch Misato go through the five stages of grief on camera as she realizes the co-host of a podcast called Spill the Matcha prefers regular old coffee. To distract themselves from the corporate identity crisis, the girls dive into another high-stakes game of "This or That" making tough calls on food, lifestyle, and dating.Sponsors:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Ninja Wifi (use Code MATCHA10 for 10% OFF)⁠

Japan might be famous for its low street-crime rate, but behind closed screens, a different kind of predator is on the rise. This week on Spill the Matcha, Misato catches Cherine completely off guard by diving into the dark, sophisticated world of Kokusai Romance Sagi (International Romance Scams) currently plaguing Japan.Sponsors:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Ninja Wifi (use Code MATCHA10 for 10% OFF)⁠

If you walk through any major entertainment district in Japan, your senses are instantly bombarded by giant flashing screens, deafening ad trucks, and a small army of people trying to hand you things. This week on Spill the Matcha, Misato and Cherine are pulling back the curtain on Japanese street advertising and neighborhood scams.Sponsors:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Ninja Wifi (use Code MATCHA10 for 10% OFF)⁠

Remember when staying out until 5:00 AM was a breeze and hangovers didn't last two business days? Yeah, Misato and Cherine barely remember those days either. This week on Spill the Matcha, the girls are getting real about clubbing in your 30s, focusing on the wild contrast between Osaka’s two biggest nightlife hubs: Amerikamura (Amemura) and Umeda.Sponsors:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Ninja Wifi (use Code MATCHA10 for 10% OFF)⁠

From "alphas" and "simps" to "incels," Western internet culture loves a label. But how does Japan categorize its male population? This week on Spill the Matcha, Misato and Cherine take a deep, unfiltered dive into the fascinating, hilarious, and sometimes dark world of words used to describe men in Japan.The girls look at how Japan transitioned from mainstream sociological terms like the famous "Herbivore Men" to modern, brutal internet slang cooked up in the depths of anonymous message boards. Cherine tries to wrap her head around why a simple fast-food order became the ultimate Japanese equivalent to an "incel" meme, while Misato explains the shifting societal pressures that cause these labels to trend in the first place.Sponsors:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Ninja Wifi (use Code MATCHA10 for 10% OFF)⁠

If a TV show wins ten Emmys but no one in Tokyo is talking about it, does it even exist? This week on Spill the Matcha, Misato and Cherine explore the fascinating divide between what’s popular in the West versus what actually makes it big in Japan.To test the waters, Cherine hosts a hilarious pop quiz for Misato to see if she recognizes some of the biggest Western TV shows, games, and internet phenomena of the last decade. From fantasy epics to viral gaming crazes, the results highlight just how differently media travels across borders. Plus, the girls break down the secret formula of how foreign media actually gets popular in Japan—hint: it usually involves a massive celebrity endorsement or a total marketing makeover.Sponsors:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Ninja Wifi (use Code MATCHA10 for 10% OFF)⁠

There are Disney fans, and then there are Japanese Disney Fans. This week on Spill the Matcha, Misato and Cherine take a trip into the vibrant, obsessive, and surprisingly disciplined world of Tokyo Disney Resort mania.While "Disney Adults" sometimes face a bit of internet side-eye in the West, in Japan, loving Disney as a full-grown adult isn't just normal—it’s practically a national hobby. The girls discuss the hardcore subculture of D-Ota (Disney Otaku) and how a day at Tokyo Disneyland looks wildly different from Anaheim or Paris. From matching squad outfits to literal character "shrines," get ready to see the House of Mouse through a completely different lens.Sponsors:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Ninja Wifi (use Code MATCHA10 for 10% OFF)⁠

Saying "I quit" shouldn't require a mediator, right? This week on Spill the Matcha, Misato and Cherine break down the incredibly awkward, high-stress, and culturally complex world of quitting a job in Japan. While changing careers is normal in many parts of the world, Japan’s traditional corporate culture still treats leaving a company like a major breakup. The girls dive into the extreme guilt of meiwaku (causing trouble for others) and discuss the wild, booming business of Taishoku Daiko—agencies you literally pay to quit your job for you so you never have to face your boss again.Sponsors:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Ninja Wifi (use Code MATCHA10 for 10% OFF)⁠

Don’t let the title fool you—this might be our most high-stakes, adrenaline-pumping episode yet. This week on Spill the Matcha, Misato and Cherine are diving into the obsessive, wallet-stretching, and strangely addictive world of Japanese Point Cards.In the UK and Belgium, a loyalty card is just something taking up space in your wallet. But in Japan? It’s a way of life. From the iconic "Ponta" and "Rakuten" points to the specialized stamp cards at your local ramen shop, the girls discuss why Japan is so obsessed with the "Point-katsu" (Point Hunting) grind.Sponsors:⁠⁠⁠⁠Ninja Wifi (use Code MATCHA10 for 10% OFF)⁠

Put down the roses and pick up the planner! This week on Spill the Matcha, Misato and Cherine are debating which country truly wears the crown for romance. We all know the stereotypes—Italy and Spain are the lands of fiery passion and spontaneous grand gestures—but where does Japan fit in?The girls get real about why romance in Japan feels less like a movie and more like a carefully managed project. They discuss the "spontaneity gap" and why, without the social "permission" of Valentine’s Day and White Day, romance in Japan might just grind to a halt.Sponsors:⁠⁠⁠Ninja Wifi (use Code MATCHA10 for 10% OFF)⁠

No place is perfect, even if it looks like it on Instagram! This week on Spill the Matcha, Misato and Cherine are getting brutally honest about the things they would change about their home countries—Japan and Belgium.From social etiquette to public infrastructure, the girls dive into the daily frustrations that make them roll their eyes. Things take a hilarious (and slightly gross) turn when Cherine explains the Belgian struggle of "Madame Pee Pee" and the lack of public restrooms, leaving Misato absolutely floored by the concept of paying for a toilet.Sponsors:⁠⁠Ninja Wifi (use Code MATCHA10 for 10% OFF)⁠

Why does everyone in Japan suddenly have the exact same keychain? And why do we all look like aliens in our latest Purikura photos? This week on Spill the Matcha, Misato and Cherine are taking a deep dive into the fast-paced, glittery, and sometimes bizarre world of Japanese fads and trends.From the "Seal Book" (sticker book) obsession of the 2000s to the high-tech photo booths of today, the girls explore why Japan is so good at creating "booms" that capture the nation's heart. Misato gets nostalgic about her childhood sticker trades, while Cherine reacts to the sheer intensity of Japan’s seasonal trends.Sponsors:⁠Ninja Wifi (use Code MATCHA10 for 10% OFF)

Imagine going from the neon-soaked, ear-splitting chaos of a Japanese Game Center to... a dark, dingy, and surprisingly depressing police station. This week on Spill the Matcha, Cherine tells the full story of the night she lost her wallet and her subsequent "adventure" with the law.Forget the high-tech Japan you see in movies; Cherine takes us inside the Umeda Police Station, which felt more like a 70s detective drama set than a modern office. Between the flickering fluorescent lights and the mountains of paperwork, she and Misato discuss the reality of the Japanese police system and the grueling process of getting your stuff back. It’s a story of panic, paperwork, and the unexpected dinginess of the Osaka underground. Grab your Matcha and get ready for a very real look at life in Japan. Sponsors:Ninja Wifi (use Code MATCHA10 for 10% OFF)

Japan is known for being one of the safest countries in the world, but there is one issue that many women face every single day: Chikan (痴漢), or train groping. This week on Spill the Matcha, Misato and Cherine have a serious and necessary conversation about the reality of navigating Japan's crowded public transport.From the "Women Only" carriages to the viral safety apps, the girls discuss the cultural and social factors that make this issue so persistent and what is being done to stop it.This episode aims to break the silence on a difficult topic while providing support and information for our listeners. We’re spilling the matcha on the parts of Japanese life that aren't always easy to talk about, but are vital to understand.Stay Safe on Your Commute: If you or someone you know has been affected by chikan, please know there is support. Download the Digi Police app for a silent way to call for help on crowded trains. For professional support, call the nationwide sexual crime hotline at #8103 or the Yorisoi Hotline for English support at 0120-279-338. Your safety matters! 

Is it actually "reality" if everyone is being too polite to argue? This week on Spill the Matcha, Misato and Cherine are diving into the addictive, confusing, and sometimes cringey world of Japanese Reality TV.While the rest of the world obsessed over the "chill vibes" of Terrace House, the girls are finally speaking their truth: they aren't fans. They break down why the show feels more like a staged commercial for influencers than a real look at life in Tokyo. Sponsors:Ninja Wifi (use Code MATCHA10 for 10% OFF)

It’s time for a heart-to-heart. This week on Spill the Matcha, Misato and Cherine are opening up the listener mailbag to tackle a vulnerable and tough question: "What do I do if I feel like I love my partner more than they love me?" Feeling like the "over-giver" in a relationship can be lonely, and the girls dive deep into why this happens and how culture plays a massive role in how we express (or hide) our feelings. Sponsors: Ninja Wifi (use Code MATCHA10 for 10% OFF)

Grab your heart-shaped boxes! This week on Spill the Matcha, Misato and Cherine are breaking down the fascinating "reverse" tradition of Valentine’s Day in Japan. Unlike in Europe or America, where it's all about cards and flowers (often from the guys), in Japan, the pressure is entirely on the women! The girls discuss the complex hierarchy of chocolate giving and why February 14th can feel more like a strategic mission than a romantic holiday. Sponsors: Ninja Wifi (use Code MATCHA10 for 10% OFF)

How close is too close? This week on Spill the Matcha, Misato and Cherine are getting into the awkward, sweet, and sometimes confusing world of Public Displays of Affection (PDA) in Japan. In a country where "reading the air" (Kuuki wo yomu) is a national pastime, showing affection in public can be a major taboo. The girls break down why you rarely see couples kissing on the street in Tokyo and how even holding hands can feel like a "big statement" to some locals. Sponsors: Ninja Wifi (use Code MATCHA10 for 10% OFF)

Is your personality determined by your blood type? Should you avoid moving house this month because the stars say so? This week on Spill the Matcha, Misato and Cherine are peering into the crystal ball to discuss the massive culture of Uranai (Fortune-telling) in Japan. In Japan, fortune-telling isn't just for fun—it's a serious business that influences everything from career moves to dating compatibility. Sponsors: Ninja Wifi (use Code MATCHA10 for 10% OFF)

Watch your step and mind your chopsticks! This week on Spill the Matcha, Misato and Cherine are diving into the eerie, the quirky, and the downright mysterious world of Japanese superstitions. Ever wondered why people don't clip their nails at night ? Misato shares the warnings she grew up with, while Cherine reacts to the culture shocks of navigating these unspoken rules as an expat. Sponsors: Ninja Wifi (use Code MATCHA10 for 10% OFF)

The holiday break is over, and Misato is finally back in the studio after visiting her hometown in Kumamoto. This week, she and Cherine catch up on all things Oshogatsu (Japanese New Year) and what it’s really like to "return to the nest" during the busiest travel week of the year. Sponsors: Ninja Wifi (use Code MATCHA10 for 10% OFF)

Get ready to swap your roasted turkey for fried chicken! This week on Spill the Matcha, Misato and Cherine are celebrating the holidays by comparing Christmas in Japan with the festive traditions of Europe, specifically the UK! They’re spilling the matcha on the unique Japanese holiday customs, like why Christmas Eve is celebrated as the most romantic date night of the year and how the bizarre tradition of ordering KFC for Christmas dinner ever started. (P.S. The girls confess they prefer the fried chicken from Mos Burger!) Then, they compare notes with the UK's traditional approach, discussing everything they miss: the cheesy jokes and paper crowns of Christmas crackers, the charming fun of Christmas markets, and the rich, boozy deliciousness of Christmas pudding. Tune in for the ultimate girls' talk about romance, food, and the completely different ways the world celebrates the most wonderful time of the year! Sponsors: Ninja Wifi (use Code MATCHA10 for 10% OFF)

Dating in Japan is complicated enough, but have you heard the labels? In this spicy episode of Spill the Matcha, Misato and Cherine are decoding the controversial world of dating stereotypes. They’re diving into the concept of the "Sushi Hunter"—the foreign women specifically seeking out Japanese men (the flip side of the infamous "Gaijin Hunter"). Is it a preference or a fetish? Plus, they tackle the internet's obsession with the "Japanese Waifu". They discuss the fantasy of the submissive, perfect Japanese wife versus the reality of modern Japanese women. From "Passport Bros" to the stereotype of "Yamato Nadeshiko," the girls are breaking down the tropes to reveal what it's really like. Tune in for a very honest conversation about love, labels, and expectations!   Sponsors: Ninja Wifi (use Code MATCHA10 for 10% OFF)

The pressure is on! In this short and sweet episode of Spill the Matcha, Cherine puts Misato in the hot seat for a high-speed game of "This or That?" It's time to play dirty! This week on Spill the Matcha, the friendship between Misato and Cherine is on the line as they play the ultimate confession game: Never Have I Ever! They’re spilling the matcha on everything: embarrassing travel mishaps, outrageous dating scenarios, awkward cultural faux pas in Japan, and secret host shenanigans. Tune in for the most honest, hilarious, and revealing girls' talk episode yet. Get ready for some serious secrets!   Sponsors: Ninja Wifi (use Code MATCHA10 for 10% OFF)

The pressure is on! In this short and sweet episode of Spill the Matcha, Cherine puts Misato in the hot seat for a high-speed game of "This or That?" It’s a quick-fire round where hesitation isn't an option! Cherine fires off rapid questions testing Misato's ultimate preferences on everything from Japanese staples to sweet treats. The girls debate the hardest choices: Is it Sushi or Ramen for dinner? Do they crave traditional Wagashi or a slice of Cake for dessert? Tune in to hear Misato’s gut reactions, some surprising answers, and plenty of laughs as the girls argue over the best flavors in Japan. Which side are you on?   Sponsors: Ninja Wifi (use Code MATCHA10 for 10% OFF)

Prepare for some serious "Wait, what?!" moments! In this episode of Spill the Matcha, your hosts Misato and Cherine are breaking down the biggest, weirdest, and funniest culture shocks in Japan.   Sponsors: Ninja Wifi (use Code MATCHA10 for 10% OFF)

Get ready for a fun, spontaneous challenge! This week on Spill the Matcha, your hosts Misato and Cherine are putting their friendship (and their opinions!) to the test with a round of Would You Rather! The rules are simple: honesty is key! The girls have to choose between two impossible, and often hilarious, Japan-themed scenarios. They’re spilling the matcha as they debate tough cultural dilemmas, bizarre dating choices, and tricky questions about Japanese living. Sponsors: Ninja Wifi (use Code MATCHA10 for 10% OFF)

Time to talk manners! In this episode of Spill the Matcha, your hosts Misato and Cherine are tackling a topic that often confuses visitors: Japanese food etiquette. They are spilling the matcha on all the dos and don'ts, from the proper way to handle chopsticks (and definitely what notto do with them!) to the meaning behind various dining customs. The main event? The Great Slurp Debate! The girls explain why slurping your noodles is not only acceptable but often encouraged, and they share tips on how to master the perfect slurp without causing an international incident. They also cover basic table manners you need to know before stepping into a restaurant in Japan. Tune in for the ultimate girls' talk on food, culture, and eating like a pro in Japan!   Sponsors: Ninja Wifi (use Code MATCHA10 for 10% OFF)

If you love a good school uniform and exaggerated drama, this episode is for you! Your hosts Misato and Cherine are diving deep into the world of high school anime on Spill the Matcha. They're spilling the matcha on all the genre's best tropes, from the overly dramatic love triangles and the elusive tsundere crush to the ridiculousness of many club activities. They discuss their favorite anime sweethearts and the most iconic school uniforms. But the big question is: how much of that drama is real? Tune in as the girls compare anime fiction with the real-life experience of being a high school student in Japan. Find out if your favorite romantic comedy is actually a documentary! Sponsors: Ninja Wifi (use Code MATCHA10 for 10% OFF)

Get ready for a serious dose of nostalgia! In this episode of Spill the Matcha, your hosts Misato and Cherine are taking a fun trip down memory lane to their Japanese high school days. They’re spilling the matcha on everything, from the fashion (or lack thereof) of the school uniforms and the pressures of club activities (bukatsu), to the truth about those famously strict school rules. Plus, they share hilarious and heartwarming stories about secret dating, dealing with crushes, and the chaos of school festivals and sports days. Whether you went to high school in Japan or are just curious about the rules and romances, tune in for the ultimate girls' talk throwback! Sponsors: Ninja Wifi (use Code MATCHA10 for 10% OFF)

Grab your wallet and your shopping list! In this episode of Spill the Matcha, your hosts Misato and Cherine are giving you the ultimate guide to shopping in Japan. They’re spilling the matcha on everything you need to know, from the best souvenirs to where to find a bargain...They dive into the must-buy items at discount stores like Daiso and Seria, the stylish essentials at Muji, the wacky wonders of Don Quijote (Donki), and the adorable chaos of Kiddy Land. Plus, they tackle Japanese fashion and beauty, giving you the lowdown on essential affordable style at Uniqlo & GU and the best cult-favorite cosmetics. Whether you’re planning a trip or just dreaming of your next haul, tune in for all the girls’ talk, money-saving tips, and shopping secrets! Sponsors: Ninja Wifi (use Code MATCHA10 for 10% OFF)

Time to get your nerd on! In this episode of Spill the Matcha, your hosts Misato and Cherine are diving deep into the world of Otaku culture. They're sharing their love for all things nerdy, and their favorite Anime and Manga Sponsors: Ninja Wifi (use Code MATCHA10 for 10% OFF)

Get your passport ready! In this episode of Spill the Matcha, the girls are embarking on a new adventure without even leaving the studio. Your host Cherine is back from her recent Europe trip and is ready to spill all the details to Misato. From the charming streets of Belgium and its delicious treats to the iconic landmarks of London and its unique vibe, she's recapping all her travel highlights. They're sharing stories about the must-see spots, unexpected moments, and the hilarious travel blunders that make for the best memories. Grab a cup of your favorite brew and join the ultimate girls' talk about travel, culture, and adventure   Sponsors: Ninja Wifi (use Code MATCHA10 for 10% OFF)

Time to get your nerd on! In this episode of Spill the Matcha, your hosts Misato and Cherine are diving deep into the world of Otaku culture. They're sharing their love for all things nerdy, from their favorite anime and games to their own experiences with Dungeons & Dragons in Japan. But it’s not all fun and games! The hosts get serious as they explore the fascinating history of the word 'Otaku.' They discuss how its meaning has changed over the years and compare its often-negative connotations in Japan with the more positive, mainstream usage it has in the Western world. Tune in as they spill the matcha on the passions, people, and changing perception of Japan's most famous subculture! Sponsors: Ninja Wifi (use Code MATCHA10 for 10% OFF)

Get ready to get hungry! On this episode of Spill the Matcha, your hosts Misato and Sherine are serving up some serious food talk. They're dishing out all their secrets on the best places to eat in Osaka, sharing everything from hidden gem restaurants to their favorite late-night street food spots. But it’s not all about eating out! They’re also spilling the matcha on Japanese home cooking, swapping tips on easy recipes and revealing their go-to comfort foods. Sponsors: Ninja Wifi (use Code MATCHA10 for 10% OFF)

Get ready for some truly wild stories on this episode of Spill the Matcha! Your hosts, Misato and Cherine, are diving deep into the exhilarating (and sometimes chaotic) world of partying in Osaka. From belting out tunes at karaoke, hitting up the hottest nightclubs, to chilling at the coziest bars, they're sharing all their craziest experiences in Osaka's vibrant nightlife scene. They'll cover everything from finding the best spots to the unforgettable characters you meet along the way. But hold onto your matcha lattes, because Sherine has a confession that takes the cake: a night out that led to some very unexpected company and, let's just say, her apartment nearly had a very unfortunate incident! You won't believe what happened next. Tune in for the ultimate girls' talk about Osaka's wild party scene, surprising encounters, and those moments when things almost go completely off the rails. It's an episode you won't want to miss! Sponsors: Ninja Wifi (use Code MATCHA10 for 10% OFF)  

Join Misato and Cherine, for some honest and hilarious stories on this episode of Spill the Matcha. They’re diving headfirst into the complex and often-amusing world of dating and international marriage in Japan. Are the stereotypes true? What's the reality of the dating scene for foreigners? And yes, they get to the bottom of the age-old question: does size really matter? Pour yourself a cup and listen in as your two favourite friends spill the matcha on love, stereotypes, and everything in between. Sponsors: Ninja Wifi (use Code MATCHA10 for 10% OFF)  

Your weekly dose of real talk with Misato and Cherine! Join these two friends as they chat about relationships, lifestyle, and what it’s like living in Japan. It’s like a chat with your besties, brewed fresh every week. Sponsors: Ninja Wifi (use Code MATCHA10 for 10% OFF)