Sightseeing Japan

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:Sendai: Zuihoden — Sendai City Museum — Sendai Castle Ruins — Osaki Hachimangu Shrine — Sendai Mediatheque — Sunmall Ichibancho Shopping ArcadeYamagata: Risshakuji (Yamadera) — Zao OnsenMatsushima: Ojima — Kanrantei Tea House — Sightseeing Cruise — Zuiganji — Entsuin — Date Masamune Historical Museum — Fukuura Island — Matsushima Retro Museum — Matsushima Fish MarketSendai: Earthquake Heritage Arahama Elementary School — Daikannon — Rinnouji — Kirin Beer FactoryTokyo: teamLab Planets — Small Worlds — Kokyo Gaien National GardenJoin 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:Otaru: Otaru Music Box Museum — Denuki Koji — Stained Glass Museum — Snow Light Path FestivalBibaiAsahikawa: Asahikawa Winter Festival — VOCALO Bar Calc — Kawamura Kaneto Ainu Memorial MuseumBiei: Biei Shrine — Four Seasons Tower — Town of Hills Folk Museum MisoraAbashiri: Ice Breaker Aurora — Ryuhyo Glass Museum — Abashiri City Museum — Abashiri City Folk Museum — Abashiri-Jinja — Abashiri Prison MuseumSendai: Tomizawa Site — AER Observation TerraceJoin 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 first week of sightseeing!Topics Covered:Kamakura: Tsurugaoka Hachimangu — Komachi Street — Hokokuji — Hatsune Antiques — Roast Beef OnoHakodate: Uni Murakami — Morning Market — Kanemori Red Brick Warehouse — Hakodate Gokoku Shrine — Motomachi — City Museum of Northern Peoples — Lucky Pierrot — Mt. Hakodate — Goryokaku — Okushiba Soup CurryNoboribetsu: JigokudaniSapporo: Sapporo Snow Festival — Tanukikoji Shopping Street — Tsudome — Sapporo Beer Museum — Sapporo Factory — Nijo Market — Norbesa Ferris WheelJoin our Discord community!Become a member on Patreon!

Famous for its onsen, museums, and Fuji views, Hakone has long been a retreat from city life. Join Jason and Paul as they discuss how to experience Hakone and what sets it apart from other destinations.Topics Covered:HistoryHakone-YumotoRyokan and OnsenSightseeing Train (Tozan Railway)Hakone Kowakien YunessunHakone Open-Air MuseumOwakudaniPirate ShipHakone CheckpointBest View of FujiHakone ShrineHow to get to/around HakoneJoin our Discord community!Become a member on Patreon!

Designated national cycle routes are part of Japan’s push to make cycling more accessible for travelers. Join Jason and Paul as they break down the routes, the scenery, and what cyclists can expect along the way.Topics Covered:What is a “National Cycle Route”?Shimanami KaidoBiwa-IchiPacific Cycling RoadToyama Bay Cycling RouteTsukuba-Kasumigaura Ring-Ring RoadTokapuchi400Tips for a Successful RideJoin our Discord community!Become a member on Patreon!

Japanese pro wrestling has carved out its own distinct identity, blending athleticism, storytelling, and a passionate fan culture. Join Jason and Paul as they explore the history, styles, and stars that make puroresu so unique.Topics Covered:What is Japanese Pro Wrestling?HistoryHow Does Puroresu Work?Major PromotionsControversyHow to AttendJoin our Discord community!Become a member on Patreon!

Japan’s service culture sets a global standard, blending efficiency, politeness, and surprising little touches of care. Join Jason and Paul as they dive into the roots of omotenashi and how it shapes everyday experiences.Topics Covered:What is Omotenashi?HistoryKeigoExamples of OmotenashiThe Dark Side of Customer ServiceJoin our Discord community!Become a member on Patreon!

From anime conventions to the streets of Akihabara, cosplay has become a vibrant part of Japan’s cultural scene. Join Jason and Paul as they dive into how it all started and what it means today.Topics Covered:HistoryHow to CosplayWhere to CosplayAre There Rules?ControversiesWhere to See CosplayPodcast Meetup 2026: Saturday Feb 7th, 2026 at 6:00pm under the Nikka Whisky Sign in Susukino, Sapporo.Join our Discord community!Become a member on Patreon!

Soybeans are at the heart of Japanese cuisine, found in everything from tofu and miso to soy sauce and natto. Join Jason and Paul as they explore how this humble bean shaped Japan’s food, culture, and history!Topics Covered:HistoryJapan’s Soybean IndustryHow Soybeans are GrownHow Soybeans are Consumed in Japan: Tofu — Miso — Soy Sauce — Natto — Edamame — Soy Milk — Yuba — Kinako — KuromameTypes of SoybeansHealth BenefitsWhere to get Soy ProductsPodcast Meetup 2026: Saturday Feb 7th, 2026 at 6:00pm under the Nikka Whisky Sign in Susukino, Sapporo.Join our Discord community!Become a member on Patreon!

Trying to decide what to bring home from Japan? Join Jason and Paul as they talk about the best souvenirs to commemorate your trip—from classic keepsakes to unique finds you won’t see anywhere else.Topics Covered:Traditional: Chopsticks — Ceramics — Teaware — Furoshiki — Tenugui — Traditional Clothing — Fans (Sensu/Uchiwa) — Daruma — Kokeshi Dolls — Maneki Neko — Omamori — Origami — IncenseModern: Clothing — Stationery — Anime Merch — Bento Box — Knives — Railway Merch — ElectronicsCollectibles: Gachapon — Goshuincho — Eki Stamps — Manhole Covers — Pins — Mascot MerchFood: KitKats — Tea — Sake — Whisky — Wagashi — Omiyage — Plastic FoodPodcast Meetup 2026: Saturday Feb 7th, 2026 at 6:00pm under the Nikka Whisky Sign in Susukino, Sapporo.Join our Discord community!Become a member on Patreon!

Fukuoka is a bustling city with a relaxed vibe, known for its history, food, and seaside charm. Join Jason and Paul as they explore what makes this Kyushu hub such a special place to visit!Topics Covered:HistoryTochoji TempleKushida ShrineSumiyoshi ShrineCanal CityNakasu (Nakagawa Yatai)Tenjin Underground MallFukuoka Castle RuinsOhori Park: Japanese Garden — Fukuoka Art MuseumMizuho PayPay DomeMomochi Seaside ParkFukuoka TowerUminonakamichi Seaside ParkEvents: Hakata Gion Yamakasa — Hakata DontakuLocal Specialties: Hakata Ramen — Mentaiko — Motsunabe — MizutakiHow to get to/around FukuokaPodcast Meetup 2026: Saturday Feb 7th, 2026 at 6:00pm under the Nikka Whisky Sign in Susukino, Sapporo.Join our Discord community!Become a member on Patreon!

Shinto and Buddhism each offer chilling visions of the afterlife, filled with fiery pits, icy rivers, and terrifying judges. Join Jason and Paul as they explore Japan’s many “hells,” from mythic underworlds to real-world sites inspired by them!Topics Covered:Yomi (Shinto Hell)Jigoku (Buddhist Hell)Hellish Places You Can VisitPodcast Meetup 2026: Saturday Feb 7th, 2026 at 6:00pm under the Nikka Whisky Sign in Susukino, Sapporo.Join our Discord community!Become a member on Patreon!

Cats have prowled through Japanese history, folklore, and everyday life for centuries, from lucky maneki-neko to street-dwelling strays. Join Jason and Paul as they explore the many roles cats play in Japan’s culture and society! Topics Covered: HistoryCats in Folklore: Maneki-Neko — Nekomata — Bakeneko — Kasha — Neko MusumeCat Culture in Japan: Cats as pets — Cat cafes — Strays — Cat Islands — Famous catsCat Breeds: Bobtail — Omagari-Neko —Tsushima Leopard Cat — Iriomote CatPodcast Meetup 2026: Saturday Feb 7th, 2026 at 6:00pm under the Nikka Whisky Sign in Susukino, Sapporo.Join our Discord community!Become a member on Patreon!

Japan has a long and fascinating history, filled with emperors, warriors, poets, and rebels. Join Jason and Paul as they walk through the centuries, from creation myths to modern times!Topics Covered:Paleolithic Period (40,000 BC - 13,000 BC)Jomon Period (13,000 BC - 300 BC)Yayoi Period (300 BC - 300 CE)Kofun Period (250 - 538)Yamato Period (250 - 710)Asuka Period (538 - 710)Nara Period (710 - 794)Heian Period (794 - 1185)Kamakura Period (1185 - 1333)Muromachi Period (1333 - 1568)Azuchi-Momoyama Period (1568 - 1600)Edo Period (1600 - 1868)Meiji Period (1868 - 1912)Taisho Period (1912 - 1926)Showa Period (1926 - 1989)Heisei Period (1989 - 2019)Reiwa Period (2019 - Present)Join our Discord community!Become a member on Patreon!

Located on the southern tip of Hokkaido, Hakodate is a historic port city known for its scenic views, unique history, and fresh seafood. Join Jason and Paul as they explore this gateway to Japan’s northernmost island, from star-shaped forts to morning markets and sparkling nightscapes!Topics Covered:HistoryMorning MarketGoryokakuKanemori Red Brick WarehouseMotomachiHakodate City Museum of Northern PeoplesMt. HakodateYunokawa OnsenOnuma Day TripFestivals: Hakodate Christmas Fantasy — Illuminations — Hakodate Port Festival — Hakodate Goryokaku FestivalHow to get to/around HakodateJoin our Discord community!Become a member on Patreon!

Podcast Meetup 2026: Feb 7th, 2026 at 6:00pm in Sapporo, Japan. (Venue TBD)Join our Discord community!Become a member on Patreon!

Japan loves its mascots—from cuddly creatures promoting local towns to bizarre characters representing government agencies. Join Jason and Paul as they explore the wild, whimsical world of yuru-kyara and discover what makes these mascots such a beloved part of Japanese culture!Topics Covered:What are yuru-kyara?What do mascots do?Why are mascots so popular in Japan?Notable mascots: Hikonyan (Hikone) — Kumamon (Kumamoto) — Funassyi (Funabashi) — Melonkuma (Yubari) — Gajiro (Fukusaki) — Nyango Star (Kuroishi) — Annie (Kumamoto University anisakis research) — Matagi no Momiji-chan (Hokkaido)Controversy: Amazoness (Ama City) — Chiitan (Susaki) — Sento-kun (Nara) — Marimokkori (Hokkaido)Join our Discord community!Become a member on Patreon!

Akiya are abandoned homes found all over Japan—some listed for shockingly low prices. Join Jason and Paul as they explore what it’s like to try to buy one, from navigating the listings to understanding the hidden challenges.Topics Covered:Why are there so many vacant houses?Can foreigners buy akiya?How to search for an akiyaHow to choose an akiyaHow to buy an akiyaHow to renovate an akiyaLiving in an akiyaIs it worth it?Join our Discord community!Become a member on Patreon!

Kyoto is full of famous temples, but few are as iconic—or as confusingly named—as Kinkakuji and Ginkakuji. Join Jason and Paul as they dig into the history behind these two landmarks, explore what makes each one special, and explain why the silver Pavilion isn’t actually silver.Topics Covered:HistoryKinkakuji (The Golden Pavilion)Ginkakuji (The Silver Pavilion)Join our Discord community!Become a member on Patreon!

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:TakoyakiYakitoriIkayakiTaiyakiYakisobaYaki-imoYaki TomorokoshiTako TamagoKaraageKobe BeefGyozaKorokkeSenbeiSoft CreamKakigoriDangoCrepesChoco BananaBobaWhere to Find Street FoodJoin our Discord community!Become a member on Patreon!

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:PlanesTrainsHotelsFoodWalkable CitiesConveniencePolitenessCustomer ServiceBathroomsOnsenHistoryHikingCity LifeJoin our Discord community!Become a member on Patreon!

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:HistoryLoople Sendai: Zuihoden — Sendai City Museum — Sendai Castle — Tohoku University Museum of Natural History — Miyagi Museum of Art — Osaki Hachiman Shrine — Jozenji-dori — Sunmall Ichibancho Shopping District — Date no Gyutan HonpoOther Sights: Sendai City Tomizawa Site Museum — Rinnoji — Dai Kannon — Earthquake Heritage Arahama Elementary SchoolSendai Port: Umino-Mori Aquarium — Mitsui Outlet Park — Sendai Port Central Park — Kirin Beer FactoryEvents: Sendai Tanabata Festival — Pageant of StarlightDay Trips: Matsushima Bay — Ishinomaki/Tashirojima (Cat Island) — Zao Kitsune MuraHow to get to/around SendaiJoin our Discord community!Become a member on Patreon!

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 SignificanceFamous Bugs: Cicadas — Giant Hornets — Fireflies — Stag Beetles — Rhinoceros Beetles — SilkwormsSeasonal Bugs: Butterflies — Dragonflies — CricketsCommon Pests: Mosquitoes — Cockroaches — Centipedes — SpidersJoin our Discord community!Become a member on Patreon!

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:KonbiniTemples and ShrinesHanamiMaid CafesHikingEatingShoppingShinkansenArcadesJapanese GardensJoin 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 third week of sightseeing!Topics Covered:KamikochiMatsumoto: Matsumoto Castle — Yabuhara to Narai-juku — Matsumoto City Museum — Nawate Shopping Street — Nakamachi Shopping Street — Daio Wasabi Farm — Ishii Miso — Agatanomori ParkOmiya: Omiya Bonsai Village — The Railway MuseumTokyo: Shibuya Parco — Rainbow Karaoke Shibuya — THE MUSIC BAR -CAVE SHIBUYA- — Mount Takao — Meiji JinguHakone: Yama no Chaya — Owakudani — Hakone CheckpointTokyo: Denimio — AkihabaraJoin 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:Nagoya: Coffee House Kako — Nagoya Castle — The Tokugawa Art Museum — SCMAGLEV and Railway ParkInuyama: Showa Alley — Dondenkan (Matsuri Museum) — Inuyama Castle — Urakuen — Momotaro ShrineHikone: Hikone Castle — Genkyuen — Rakurakuen — Yume Kyobashi Castle RoadOmihachiman: Kawara Museum — Hachimanyama Ropeway — Borderless Art Museum NO-MAYoro: Site of Reversible DestinySekigahara: Sekigahara Battlefield Memorial Museum — Sengoku Armor MuseumTakayama: Hikaru Museum — Takayama Sky Park — Hida no Sato Open Air Museum — Squirrel Forest Hidayama Wild Grass Nature Garden (Risu no Mori) — Matsuri no Mori Museum — Miyagawa Morning Market — Takayama Showa-kan Museum — Tofu Cuisine Noguchiya — Funasaka Sake Brewery — Hida Takayama Retro MuseumJoin 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 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 YunosatoOsaka: Shin-Osaka Station — Tempozan Ferris Wheel — Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan — Naniwa Kuishinbo Yokocho — Namba ParksNagoya: Atsuta Jingu — Shirotori Garden — Osu Shopping Street — Osu Kannon Temple — Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology — Sky PromenadeJoin our Discord community!Become a member on Patreon!

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:UbazakuraRokurokubiJiu-Roku-ZakuraThe Goblin of AdachigaharaJoin our Discord community!Become a member on Patreon!

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 FurutaIssei SagawaKobe Child MurdersNevada-TanNinja of HeiseiPodcast 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.Join our Discord community!Become a member on Patreon!

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)UjiKoyasanHimejiOkayama and KurashikiKurama and KibuneNakasendo (Magome to Tsumago)HikoneOmi HachimanAmanohashidate and IneNagoyaListener Mail: Ryokan Matsubaya — Shoseien Garden — Takase River — Kyoto Railway Museum — Umekoji ParkPodcast 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.Join our Discord community!Become a member on Patreon!

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 ShonenTerrace HouseOld EnoughIron ChefTakeshi’s CastleWafu Sohonke (Japanese Style Originator)Youtube Segments: Zoo Prank — Candy or Not — Falling Elevator — AKBingo — Bicyclist — Massage Chair Prank — Brain WallCan you get on Japanese TV?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.Join our Discord community!Become a member on Patreon!

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 JokwaMomotaro, or the Story of the Son of a PeachPodcast 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.Join our Discord community!Become a member on Patreon!

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 ExpressSightseeing Trains: Tokaido Shinkansen — Sightseeing Limited Express Aoniyoshi — Kurobe Gorge Railway — Kyo-Train Garaku — Sagano Scenic Railway — Pokemon With You Train — Hisatsu Line — Sanriku Railway Kotatsu Train — Hakone Tozan Line — Fujisan View Express — Furano Biei Norokko Train — Takayama Main Line — Chiba MonorailPodcast 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.Join our Discord community!Become a member on Patreon!

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 CrossingSensoji TempleTakeshita Street (Harajuku)AkihabaraNikko Toshogu ShrineKiyomizu-deraFushimi Inari TaishaYasaka PagodaArashiyama Bamboo GroveOsaka CastleHimeji CastleJoin 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:HistoryHow is Natto Made?Types of NattoHow to Eat NattoHealth BenefitsTaste TestWhere to Get NattoJoin 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!HistoryOmicho MarketOyama ShrineNagamachi District: Kanazawa City Ashigaru Museum — Nomura-ke Samurai Residence — Kanazawa Shinise Memorial Hall — Maeda Tosanokami-ke Shiryokan MuseumMyoryuji (Ninja Temple)Nishi Chaya District: Ninjabuki Museum — Dolls Museum — Kanazawa Nishi Chaya MuseumSouth of Kenrokuen: Ishiura Shrine — 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art — Ishikawa Prefectural Museum of Art — Kanazawa Nakamura Memorial Museum — National Crafts Museum — Ishikawa Prefectural History Museum — Kenrokuen: Seison-kaku — Kanazawa ShrineHakuichi Kenrokuen StoreKanazawa Castle ParkHigashi Chaya District: Geisha House Shima — Kaikaro — Geisha Evenings in KanazawaKanazawa Phonograph MuseumKanazawa Yasue Gold Leaf MuseumHow to get to/around KanazawaJoin our Discord community!Become a member on Patreon!

Join Jason and Paul as they discuss various announcements and current events!Topics Covered:Season 5 Start DatePatreonItinerary StorePodcast 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 GionShohei OhtaniJoin 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:HistoryElectronics (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 StageLittle TGVAkihabara Gachapon Hall2k540 Aki-Oka ArtisanYusha Kobo Keyboard Specialty ShopKomaki ShokudoBars (Game Bar A-Button, Beer Pong Bar Grove, Hitachino Brewing Lab, Low-Non-Bar)Weird Vending Machine CornerKaraokeJoin our Discord community!Become a member on Patreon!

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)UtsunomiyaHakoneOdawaraOmiyaYokohamaChibaShizuokaJoin our Discord community!Become a member on Patreon!

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:HistorySuicideKaroshiHikikomoriKodokushiGomi YashikiJoin 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:HistoryCentral: Kani Honke — Sapporo Clock Tower — Odori Park — Tanukikoji Shopping Street — Nijo Market — Susukino — Ganso Ramen Yokocho — Sapporo Factory — Sapporo Beer Museum/Beer GardenNortheast: Moerenuma ParkSouthwest: Mount MoiwaNorthwest: Sapporo Crab Market — Shiroi Koibito Park — Sapporo Teine Ski ResortSoutheast: Historical Village of Hokkaido — Hokkaido MuseumDay Trips: Otaru — JozankeiFestivals: Snow Festival — Lilac Festival — Yosakoi Soran Festival — Autumn Festival — Christmas MarketJoin our Discord community!Become a member on Patreon!

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:HistoryTypes of EstablishmentsSafetyJoin 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:HistorySights and SoundsNotable Train StationsJoin 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:HistoryDowntown 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 ParkNorth: Asama OnsenEast: Matsumoto Mingeikan Folk Art MuseumSouth: Koboyama Kofun — Matsumoto City Archaeological MuseumWest: Japan Ukiyo-e Museum — Matsumoto City RekishinosatoDay Trip: Daio Wasabi FarmHow to get to/around MatsumotoJoin our Discord community!Become a member on Patreon!

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:HistoryCultural SignificanceTypes of RiceJapan’s Rice IndustryHow is Rice Grown?How to Cook RiceJoin 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 ServicesVaccinationsTravel and Health InsuranceJapan’s Medical SystemInterview with Ryan SandlinVaccine Recommendations (CDC Website)Guidebook for when you are feeling ill (JNTO PDF)Search Medical Institutions (JNTO Website)Calling for Help (US Embassy Website)Join our Discord community!Become a member on Patreon!

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:HistoryJDM (Japanese Domestic Market)Kei CarsItashaStreet RacingOther Subcultures: Kyusha Cars - Kaido Racers - Shakotan - Bosozoku - VIP - GrachanJoin 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 StationKuchisake Onna (The Slit-Mouthed Woman)Akai Heya (The Red Room Curse)Hitori Kakurenbo (One Man Hide & Seek)Teke TekeToire no Hanako-san (Hanako of the Toilet)Ghost Taxi PassengersAka Manto (Red Cloak)Jinmenken (Human-Faced Dog)The Curse of the ColonelGhost Stories AnimeJoin our Discord community!Become a member on Patreon!

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, internetPacking: Stroller, food, suppliesWhen In Japan: Transportation, food, navigation, attractions, entertainment, what to expectJoin our Discord community!Become a member on Patreon!Affiliate Links:JR Pass Fare CalculatorRegional Rail Passes

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 TraverseMichinoku Coastal TrailBasho TrailKanto Fureai no MichiNakasendo TrailKamikochi-Yari-Hotaka CircuitNakahechi Trail (Kumano Kodo)Shikoku PilgrimageKunisaki TrekOkinawa North to South TraverseSafety TipsJoin our Discord community!Become a member on Patreon!