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: History How to Cosplay Where to Cosplay Are There Rules? Controversies Where to See Cosplay Podcast Meetup 2026: Saturday Feb 7th, 2026 at …

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: History Japan’s Soybean Industry How Soybeans are Grown How Soybeans are Consumed in Japan: Tofu — Miso — Soy Sauce — Natto …

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 Doll…

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: History Tochoji Temple Kushida Shrine Sumiyoshi Shrine Canal City Nakasu (Nakagawa Yatai) Tenjin Underground Mall Fukuoka Castle Ruins Ohori Par…

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 Visit Podcast Meetup 202…

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: History Cats in Folklore: Maneki-Neko — Nekomata — Bakeneko — Kasha — Neko Musume Cat Culture in Japan: …

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 (…

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: History Morning Market Goryokaku Kanemori Red B…

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

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 mascot…

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 akiya How to choose an ak…

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: History Kinkakuji (The Golden Pavilion) Ginkakuji (The…

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: Takoyaki Yakitori Ikayaki Taiyaki Yakisoba Yaki-imo Yaki Tomorokoshi Tako Tamago Karaage…

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: Planes Trains Hotels Food Walkable Cities Convenience Politeness Customer Service Bathrooms Onsen History Hiking City Life Join our Discord community! Become a mem…

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: History Loople Sendai: Zuihoden — Sendai City Museu…

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 Significance Famous Bugs: Cicadas — Giant Hornets — Fireflies —…

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: Konbini Temples and Shrines Hanami Maid Cafes Hiking Eati…

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: Kamikochi Matsumoto: Matsumoto Castle — Yabuhara to Narai-juku — Matsumoto City Museum — Nawate Shopping Street — Nakamachi Shopping Street — Daio Wasabi Farm — Ishii Miso — Agatanomori P…

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 Park Inuyama: Showa Alley — Dondenkan (Matsuri Museum) — Inuyama Castle — Urakuen — Momotaro Sh…

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 Yunosato Osaka: Shin-Osaka Station — Tempoza…

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: Ubazakura Rokurokubi Jiu-Roku-Zakura The Goblin of Adachigahara Join 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 Furuta Issei Sagawa Kobe Child Murders Nevada-Tan Ninja of Heisei Podcast Meetup 2024: Nov 6th, 2024 at …

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) Uji Koyasan Himeji Okayama and Kurashiki Kurama and Ki…

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 Shonen Terrace House Old Enough Iron Chef Takeshi’s Castle Wafu Sohonke…

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 Jokwa Momotaro, or the Story of the Son of a Peach Podcast Meetup 2024: Nov 6th, 2024 at 7:…

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 …

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 H…

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 Resid…

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 …

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 (…

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 Ar…

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 …

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 Pa…

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…

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 S…

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) — Mats…

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 …

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…

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 - V…

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 …

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: Transport…

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 …

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 Stadi…

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 …

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,…

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!Door Jason Nieling and Paul Bresin

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 Observatio…

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, Mic…