Every episode someone stops by Japan Station to talk about their connections to and interest in the fascinating place that is Japan. Host Tony Vega and his guests talk about things like Japanese pop culture, history, anime, manga, movies, music, video games, comedy, the impact of Japanese culture ar…
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.
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!
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!
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.
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's influence on the gyaru subculture About the supposed but unconfirmed connection between the gyaru subculture and the American TV show Baywatch, as well as Pamela Anderson About the iconic "loose socks" (lūzusokkusu) About E.G. Smith, the supposed origin of loose socks An interesting linguistic quirk about the Japanese term for "loose socks" About ganguro and yamanba gyaru and their dark tans About ageha gyaru The connection between gyaru, eurobeat and parapara What eurobeat is What parapara is Contemporary gyaru What gyarugo is Examples of popular gyaru slang What karipaku means What MK5 means What ChōSW means What sumisu means What ATM means What gachi means What agepoyo/sagepoyo mean What doron means What tehepero means What gekiokopunpunmaru means And much more! Listen to Ichimon Japan on [btn btnlink="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ichimon-japan-a-podcast-by-japankyo-com/id1492400997" btnsize="medium" bgcolor="#0568bf" txtcolor="#ffffff" btnnewt="1" nofollow="1"]Apple Podcasts[/btn] [btn btnlink="https://podcasts.google.com/?feed=aHR0cHM6Ly9pY2hpbW9uamFwYW4ubGlic3luLmNvbS9yc3M" btnsize="medium" bgcolor="#0568bf" txtcolor="#ffffff" btnnewt="1" nofollow="1"]Google Podcasts[/btn] [btn btnlink="https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/japankyocom/ichimon-japan-a-podcast-by-japankyocom" btnsize="medium" bgcolor="#0568bf" txtcolor="#ffffff" btnnewt="1" nofollow="1"]Stitcher[/btn] [btn btnlink="https://open.spotify.com/show/1ZVgnljVM8gcR1ar98eK0D" btnsize="medium" bgcolor="#0568bf" txtcolor="#ffffff" btnnewt="1" nofollow="1"]Spotify[/btn] [btn btnlink="https://www.iheart.com/podcast/263-ichimon-japan-a-podcast-by-59510504/" btnsize="medium" bgcolor="#0568bf" txtcolor="#ffffff" btnnewt="1" nofollow="1"]iHeartRadio[/btn] [btn btnlink="https://www.podbean.com/podcast-detail/mv3zr-ad2df/Ichimon-Japan-A-Podcast-by-Japankyo.com" btnsize="medium" bgcolor="#0568bf" txtcolor="#ffffff" btnnewt="1" nofollow="1"]PodBean[/btn] [btn btnlink="https://tunein.com/podcasts/Arts--Culture-Podcasts/Ichimon-Japan-A-Podcast-by-Japankyocom-p1290988/" btnsize="medium" bgcolor="#0568bf" txtcolor="#ffffff" btnnewt="1" nofollow="1"]Tunein[/btn] [btn btnlink="https://ichimonjapan.libsyn.com/rss" btnsize="medium" bgcolor="#0568bf" txtcolor="#ffffff" btnnewt="1" nofollow="1"]RSS[/btn] Support on Patreon If you enjoy Ichimon Japan and want to ensure that we're able to produce more episodes, then please consider becoming a patron on Patreon.com. You can join for just $1 a month and that comes with perks like early access to episodes, a shout-out at the beginning of a future episode, bonus content, and discounts to Kimito Designs. For $3 a month you get all that plus access to Japanese Plus Alpha, a podcast produced by me (Tony Vega) that focuses on the Japanese language and its many quirks. Whether you are studying Japanese or just enjoy learning about language and linguistics, you'll enjoy Japanese Plus Alpha. And it goes without saying that if you sign up, you'll also get my undying gratitude. Thanks in advance! Support on Patreon Sources, Links, Videos, Etc. Here are some of the Japanese language articles found when researching the topic of this episode. ヤマンバ、イベサー、ガングロ…ギャル・ギャル男はどこに消えたのか？ 【 「ギャル文化」と「渋谷」をめぐる歴史を紐解く】 ギャル文化特集～ギャルの歴史と生態～ This is the article that has the illustrations of the gyaru that Ryan mentions during the episode. ガングロ ギャル系ファッションとは。ブランドと歴史【イラスト＆図解 アラサーしかわからない！？90年代のギャル語クイズ 歴代ギャル流行語大賞／年代流行 Here's some of the English language sources read for this episode. Japanese Gal Language: What is “Agepoyo?” Here's a Japanese documentary about gyaru. Definitely worth a watch if you understand Japanese. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9aunp-hOLNc In this video you can see the 150 cm long loose socks that were mentioned in the episode. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7e-iaDIOpR8 Here's a TV from 1996 about loose socks. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gUiGLAXNamo Here is a video from 2020 in which a Japanese YouTuber tries to get girls in Shibuya to put on loose socks. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DokhMaT3MeE To check out the "snakes in a well" episode of Ichimon Japan, use the link below. Is Yamaguchi cursed to have”ugly” girls? (Places in Japan Known for “Beautiful” & “Ugly” Women) | Ichimon Japan 50 Don't forget to check out the latest episodes of the Japan Station podcast via the links below. My Sumo Academia: Talking About Sumo Today and in the Heian Period (Colton Runyan) | Japan Station 76 Support the show by picking up a t-shirt at KimitoDesigns.com. Check out Kimito Designs Japanese Vocabulary List Most episodes feature at least one or two interesting Japanese words or phrases. Here's some of the ones that came up on this episode. All information is from Jim Breen's WWWJDIC. Pichipichi ぴちぴち (adv-to,vs) (1) (on-mim) bursting with youth and energy (esp. young woman); vivaciously young; spunky; energetic; (adv-to) (2) (on-mim) (fish) jumping around energetically (e.g. when caught in a net); (adj-no) (3) (on-mim) bursting (e.g. seams); tight; (adv-to) (4) (on-mim) splattering (e.g. cooking oil) We Want Your Questions Is there something about Japan that confuses you? Is there something about Japanese culture that you would like to learn more about? Is there something in Japanese history that you would like us to explain? We're always looking for new questions about Japan to answer, so if you have one, please send it to ichimon@japankyo.com. Special Thanks Opening/Closing Theme: Produced by Apol (YouTube, Twitter, Facebook, Fiverr) Ichimon Japan cover art: Produced by Erik R. Follow Japankyo on Social Media Facebook (@JapanKyoNews) Twitter (@JapanKyoNews) Full Show Notes https:///japankyo.com/ichimonjapan
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!
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!
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.
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 school) What it is like being an assistant language teacher (ALT) on the JET Programme How much you can earn while on the JET Program The good and bad about being on the JET Program What it is like teaching english at a college in Japan What the requirements are for becoming an English teacher at a university in Japan What the salary is like for an English teacher at a university in Japan Which job pays more: Eikaiwa, JET or university teacher What vacation is like for English teachers at Japanese univesities What the contract/term limits are like for English teaching positions at universities/colleges in Japan And much more! Listen to Ichimon Japan on [btn btnlink="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ichimon-japan-a-podcast-by-japankyo-com/id1492400997" btnsize="medium" bgcolor="#0568bf" txtcolor="#ffffff" btnnewt="1" nofollow="1"]Apple Podcasts[/btn] [btn btnlink="https://podcasts.google.com/?feed=aHR0cHM6Ly9pY2hpbW9uamFwYW4ubGlic3luLmNvbS9yc3M" btnsize="medium" bgcolor="#0568bf" txtcolor="#ffffff" btnnewt="1" nofollow="1"]Google Podcasts[/btn] [btn btnlink="https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/japankyocom/ichimon-japan-a-podcast-by-japankyocom" btnsize="medium" bgcolor="#0568bf" txtcolor="#ffffff" btnnewt="1" nofollow="1"]Stitcher[/btn] [btn btnlink="https://open.spotify.com/show/1ZVgnljVM8gcR1ar98eK0D" btnsize="medium" bgcolor="#0568bf" txtcolor="#ffffff" btnnewt="1" nofollow="1"]Spotify[/btn] [btn btnlink="https://www.iheart.com/podcast/263-ichimon-japan-a-podcast-by-59510504/" btnsize="medium" bgcolor="#0568bf" txtcolor="#ffffff" btnnewt="1" nofollow="1"]iHeartRadio[/btn] [btn btnlink="https://www.podbean.com/podcast-detail/mv3zr-ad2df/Ichimon-Japan-A-Podcast-by-Japankyo.com" btnsize="medium" bgcolor="#0568bf" txtcolor="#ffffff" btnnewt="1" nofollow="1"]PodBean[/btn] [btn btnlink="https://tunein.com/podcasts/Arts--Culture-Podcasts/Ichimon-Japan-A-Podcast-by-Japankyocom-p1290988/" btnsize="medium" bgcolor="#0568bf" txtcolor="#ffffff" btnnewt="1" nofollow="1"]Tunein[/btn] [btn btnlink="https://ichimonjapan.libsyn.com/rss" btnsize="medium" bgcolor="#0568bf" txtcolor="#ffffff" btnnewt="1" nofollow="1"]RSS[/btn] Support on Patreon & Ko-fi If you enjoy Ichimon Japan and want to ensure that we're able to produce more episodes, then please consider becoming a patron on Patreon.com. You can join for just $1 a month. Patrons get first access to podcast episodes, as well as updates on what I'm working on for JapanKyo.com. If you join the $3 a month tier you get access to the back catalog of the Japanese Plus Alpha podcast (a short series on interesting Japanese words and features of the Japanese language). If you would like to do a one time donation, that is also possible. Just use the Ko-fi link below. All donations are greatly appreciated! And if you can't support financially, that's ok. Consider telling a friend about the show! Support on Patreon https://patreon.com/japankyo Support on Ko-fi https://www.ko-fi.com/japankyo Links, Videos, Etc. None. We Want Your Questions Is there something about Japan that confuses you? Is there something about Japanese culture that you would like to learn more about? Is there something in Japanese history that you would like us to explain? We're always looking for new questions about Japan to answer, so if you have one, please send it to ichimon@japankyo.com. Special Thanks Opening/Closing Theme: Produced by Apol (YouTube, Twitter, Facebook, Fiverr) Ichimon Japan cover art: Produced by Erik R. Follow Japankyo on Social Media Facebook (@JapanKyoNews) Twitter (@JapanKyoNews) Instagram (@JapanKyoNews) Full Show Notes https:///japankyo.com/ichimonjapan
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 1980s male pop stars: Hideki Saijo. Listen to the episode to learn more!
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 experiences and much more in today's episode!
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.
On this episode of Japan Station, I examine the mysterious origins of the Japanese word for cat: neko. Trust me, there's a whole lot more to say about the topic than you might think!
On this episode of Japan Station, we talk about the many film adaptation of the works of Haruki Murakami, Japan's most well-known and commercially successful novelist.
On this episode of Japan Station, we talk about oden, one of Japan's most popular winter foods.
On this episode of Japan Station, I talk about what it was like staying at a new Kyoto hotel before it opened.
On this episode of Japan Station, we talk about three obscure Japanese dishes you need to try next time you're in Japan.
On this episode of Japan Station, we're talking about hotels in Japan! This episode will give you all the information you need to know before you come visit Japan. Plenty of tips, tricks and basic information!
On this episode of Japan Station, we talk about the Senkaku Islands with Dr. Robert D. Eldridge.
On this episode of Japan Station, we talk about life in Sanya--Tokyo's infamous day laborer district--with Klaus K.Y. Hammering. 👉Topics Discussed What it is like being a day laborer in Tokyo's Sanya district The dangers of working as a day laborer What kind of people work as day laborers in Sanya About Klaus K.Y. Hammering's experiences working as a day laborer in Japanese construction sites About gambling in Sanya How Sanya has all but vanished over the past couple of decades How Japanese society often ignores what Sanya and its residents And 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 Support on Patreon https://patreon.com/japankyo Support on Ko-fi https://www.ko-fi.com/japankyo 👉Links, Videos, Etc. Here's the links for all three installments of Dreamlapse Japan. Perilous Wagers: Gambling, Dignity, and Day Laborers in Twenty-First-Century Tokyo: https://www.amazon.com/Perilous-Wagers-Twenty-First-Century-Weatherhead-University/dp/150177641X 👉Follow on Social Media X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/japankyonews Instagram: https://instagram.com/tonyrvega YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@japankyonews Website: https://japankyo.com/ Tony R. Vega Personal X/Twitter: https://x.com/thevegatony
On this episode of Japan Station, we talk about the need for Japan to make the word "anime" a regional designation. The guest is Matt Alt, author of Pure Invention: How Japan's Pop Culture Conquered the World.
On this episod eof Japan Station, we talk to filmmaker and dark sky photographer Gavin Heffernan about his recent Japan-focused project Dreamlapse Japan.
On this episod eof Japan Station, we talk about some of the interesting things I experienced during my latest 400 km walk from Kyoto to Miyajima (Miyajima Challenge).
On this episod eof Japan Station, Dr. Robert D. Eldridge returns to talk about natural disasters in Japan, his work on Operation Tomodachi during the aftermath of the 2011 Tohoku earthquake, Japan's ability to respond to natural disasters and more.
On this episode of Japan Station, we talk about Japanese abbreviations/contractions, give 12 examples and discuss their origins.
On this episode of Japan Station, we talk about the Shimabara Rebellion, yÅkai and more with the author of the Simon Grey books, Charles Kowalski. 👉Topics Discussed What is the Shimabara Rebellion (島原ã®ä¹±, Shimabara no ran) About the hidden Christians of Nagasaki/Shimabara About the building of Shimabara Castle About researching the Shimabara Rebellion About Amakusa Shiro (益田 四郎) The legends surrounding Amakusa Shiro About researching the Shimabara Rebellion in Nagasaki About getting to see the actual flag of Amakusa Shiro About Dejima About the Gashadokuro About Takiyasha hime About tengu About training with modern day Shugendo practitioners About the language and customs of hidden Christians in Japan And 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 Support on Patreon https://patreon.com/japankyo Support on Ko-fi https://www.ko-fi.com/japankyo 👉Links, Videos, Etc. Check out the first book in the Simon Grey book series for free via the link below. Simon Grey and the March of a Hudred Ghosts https://www.amazon.com/Simon-Grey-March-Hundred-Ghosts-ebook/dp/B07RLBKG6G/ref=sr_1_1?sr=8-1 Simon Grey and the Curse of the Dragon King https://www.amazon.com/Simon-Grey-Curse-Dragon-God-ebook/dp/B0DHV6SZXN And check out the Simon Grey homepage for more information, including on the upcoming book Simon Grey and the Curse of the Dragon King. Simon Grey Website: https://simongreybooks.com/ 👉Follow on Social Media X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/japankyonews Instagram: https://instagram.com/tonyrvega YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@japankyonews Website: https://japankyo.com/ Tony R. Vega Personal X/Twitter: https://x.com/thevegatony
On this episode of Japan Station, we talk about the etymology of the Japanese word for egg (tamago) and other interesting quirks of this word! Note: This is actually an episode of Japanese Plus Alpha.
about, it's its significance and its fascinating manga adaptations.
On this episode of Japan Station, we talk about 10 words that only exist in Japanese and how Japanese may not be as unique as you think it is.
On this episode of Japan Station, we talk about the importance of revitalizing rural Japan, the negative impact of the weak yen on Japan, and more with Dr. Robert D. Eldridge.
On this episode of Japan Station, we talk about how dogs in Japan used to go on religious pilgrimages (maybe?).
On this episode of Japan Station, I talk about the Miyajima Challenge: my upcoming walk from Kyoto to Miyajima in Hiroshima Prefecture.
On this episode of Japan Station, we talk about Osaka ComicCon. Is worth attending? What should you expect? Listen to find out!
On this episode of Japan Station, writer and Kyoto expert Phillip Jackson tells about some great walking areas in Japan's ancient capital city. WARNING: This episode will make you want to go to Kyoto!
On this episode of Japan Station, we're talking about Japanese words we learned by watching anime.
On this episode of Japan Station, we talk about Japanese folklore with Thersa Matsuura of the Uncanny Japan podcast.
This time we're taking a deep dive into the history of the Japanese word for fart: onara. Where did it come from? What is its true meaning? What is its link to a secret ancient language spoken hundreds of years ago in Japan? We're answering all those questions and more! SUPPORT Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/japankyo Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/japankyo Listen to the Japan Station Podcast! https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/japan-station-a-podcast-about-japan-by-japankyo-com/id1440454968 Follow on X https://twitter.com/japankyonews Visit JapanKyo.com for more https://japankyo.com/
On this episode of Japan Station, we talk about why I decided to walk the old Tokaido Road in 2023 and the impact it had. This episode features a speech I did for the 2024 state convention of the Hawaii Association of the Blind. Topics Discussed Why I walked the Tokaido in 2023 What my goal was How I raised awareness of the blind & visually impaired community by walking from Kyoto to Tokyo And more! Support on Patreon & Ko-fi If you enjoy Ichimon Japan and want to ensure that we're able to produce more episodes, then please consider becoming a patron on Patreon.com. You can join for just $1 a month. Patrons get first access to podcast episodes, as well as updates on what I'm working on for JapanKyo.com. If you join the $3 a month tier you get access to the back catalog of the Japanese Plus Alpha podcast (a short series on interesting Japanese words and features of the Japanese language). If you would like to do a one time donation, that is also possible. Just use the Ko-fi link below. All donations are greatly appreciated! And if you can't support financially, that's ok. Consider telling a friend about the show! Support on Patreon https://patreon.com/japankyo Support on Ko-fi https://www.ko-fi.com/japankyo Links, Videos, Etc. The Tokaido Challenge Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zYU41Z0G4Uc&list=PL7ALB_S1KyWunL6kIbGu_Vtmswe1qxlHq Hawaii Association of the Blind: https://hawaii.acb.org/ Tony Dot Vega on X: https://twitter.com/thevegatony Subscribe to JapanKyo on YouTube JapanKyo on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@japankyonews For More Visit JapanKyo.com For more of my Japan-focused content, visit the JapanKyo website JapanKyo.com
On this episode of Japan Station, we talk about why you shouldn't try to learn Japanese. Topics Discussed How AI and translation software are making it unnecessary to learn Japanese How learning Japanese is pointless for most people Why you should learn Japanese Reasons people would want to study Japanese And more! Support on Patreon & Ko-fi If you enjoy Ichimon Japan and want to ensure that we're able to produce more episodes, then please consider becoming a patron on Patreon.com. You can join for just $1 a month. Patrons get first access to podcast episodes, as well as updates on what I'm working on for JapanKyo.com. If you join the $3 a month tier you get access to the back catalog of the Japanese Plus Alpha podcast (a short series on interesting Japanese words and features of the Japanese language). If you would like to do a one time donation, that is also possible. Just use the Ko-fi link below. All donations are greatly appreciated! And if you can't support financially, that's ok. Consider telling a friend about the show! Support on Patreon https://patreon.com/japankyo Support on Ko-fi https://www.ko-fi.com/japankyo Links, Videos, Etc. The Tokaido Challenge Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zYU41Z0G4Uc&list=PL7ALB_S1KyWunL6kIbGu_Vtmswe1qxlHq For More Visit JapanKyo.com For more of my Japan-focused content, visit the JapanKyo website JapanKyo.com
On this episode of Japan Station, we talk about the manga creator Akira Toriyama and his impact on the world and my life. Topics Discussed About the passing of manga creator Akira Toriyama About the impact and influence of Akira Toriyama on the US and the world About the impact of Dragon Ball and Dragon Ball Z About the popularity of the Dragon Ball franchise around the world About discovering Dragon Ball in Peru And more! Support on Patreon & Ko-fi If you enjoy Ichimon Japan and want to ensure that we're able to produce more episodes, then please consider becoming a patron on Patreon.com. You can join for just $1 a month. Patrons get first access to podcast episodes, as well as updates on what I'm working on for JapanKyo.com. If you join the $3 a month tier you get access to the back catalog of the Japanese Plus Alpha podcast (a short series on interesting Japanese words and features of the Japanese language). If you would like to do a one time donation, that is also possible. Just use the Ko-fi link below. All donations are greatly appreciated! And if you can't support financially, that's ok. Consider telling a friend about the show! Support on Patreon https://patreon.com/japankyo Support on Ko-fi https://www.ko-fi.com/japankyo Links, Videos, Etc. The Tokaido Challenge Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zYU41Z0G4Uc&list=PL7ALB_S1KyWunL6kIbGu_Vtmswe1qxlHq For More Visit JapanKyo.com For more of my Japan-focused content, visit the JapanKyo website JapanKyo.com
On this episode of Japan Station, we're talking to the owners of Geisha House Atami and learning about what it's like to buy an old house in Japan, restore it and more! Topics Discussed About Geisha House Atami About Atami About the history of Atami About what it's like buying an old house in Japan Whether you should buy a cheap abandoned house in Japan What you should be aware of before you try to buy a house in Japan What can be annoying about buying an old house in Japan What you can expect when you visit Geisha House Atami And much more Support on Patreon & Ko-fi If you enjoy Ichimon Japan and want to ensure that we're able to produce more episodes, then please consider becoming a patron on Patreon.com. You can join for just $1 a month. Patrons get first access to podcast episodes, as well as updates on what I'm working on for JapanKyo.com. If you join the $3 a month tier you get access to the back catalog of the Japanese Plus Alpha podcast (a short series on interesting Japanese words and features of the Japanese language). If you would like to do a one time donation, that is also possible. Just use the Ko-fi link below. All donations are greatly appreciated! And if you can't support financially, that's ok. Consider telling a friend about the show! Support on Patreon https://patreon.com/japankyo Support on Ko-fi https://www.ko-fi.com/japankyo Links, Videos, Etc. Geisha House Atami Links Geisha House Atami Website: https://www.geishahouseatami.com/ Geisha House Atami X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/GeishaHouseA Follow JapanKyo on Social Media Facebook (@JapankyoNews) https://www.facebook.com/JapankyoNews/ X/Twitter (@JapankyoNews) https://twitter.com/japankyonews My Personal X/Twitter (@TheVegaTony) https://twitter.com/TheVegaTony Instagram (@JapanKyoNews) https://instagram.com/japankyonews YouTube (@JapanKyoNews) https://www.youtube.com/@japankyonews For More Visit JapanKyo.com For more of my Japan-focused content, visit the JapanKyo website JapanKyo.com
On this episode of Japan Station, I talk about the worst 3 mistakes I made while learning Japanese. Topics Discussed About the history of Kabosu the Shibainu and the Doge meme About three of the worst mistakes I made while learning Japanese About the importance of studying Japanese outside of the classroom The funniest mistake I ever made while speaking Japanese About the word toire And much more Support on Patreon & Ko-fi If you enjoy Ichimon Japan and want to ensure that we're able to produce more episodes, then please consider becoming a patron on Patreon.com. You can join for just $1 a month. Patrons get first access to podcast episodes, as well as updates on what I'm working on for JapanKyo.com. If you join the $3 a month tier you get access to the back catalog of the Japanese Plus Alpha podcast (a short series on interesting Japanese words and features of the Japanese language). If you would like to do a one time donation, that is also possible. Just use the Ko-fi link below. All donations are greatly appreciated! And if you can't support financially, that's ok. Consider telling a friend about the show! Support on Patreon https://patreon.com/japankyo Support on Ko-fi https://www.ko-fi.com/japankyo Links, Videos, Etc. Here's all th Tokaido Challenge Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zYU41Z0G4Uc&list=PL7ALB_S1KyWunL6kIbGu_Vtmswe1qxlHq Follow JapanKyo on Social Media Facebook (@JapankyoNews) https://www.facebook.com/JapankyoNews/ X/Twitter (@JapankyoNews) https://twitter.com/japankyonews My Personal X/Twitter (@TheVegaTony) https://twitter.com/TheVegaTony Instagram (@JapanKyoNews) https://instagram.com/japankyonews YouTube (@JapanKyoNews) https://www.youtube.com/@japankyonews For More Visit JapanKyo.com For more of my Japan-focused content, visit the JapanKyo website JapanKyo.com
On this episode of Japan Station, we learn about the new statue of the famous Kabosu the shibainu (a.k.a. Doge) that was erected in Sakura City, Chiba Prefecture. Are you ready to go on "the Doge Pilgrimage?" Topics Discussed About the history of Kabosu the Shibainu and the Doge meme About the process of creating the Doge statue that is in Sakura City in Chiba Prefecture near Narita Airport About how the creation of the Doge statue was funded How the Own the Doge organization created the bronze Doge statue About connecting and communicating with the mayor of Sakura City in Chiba Prefecture About the Own the Doge organization About Atsuko Sato About auctioning off the couch seen in the original photo used in the Doge meme About the big unveiling ceremony of the Doge statue in November of 2023 About John Monarch's (creator of the Doge meme) role in the Own the Doge and Bronze Doge pprojects And much more Support on Patreon & Ko-fi If you enjoy Ichimon Japan and want to ensure that we're able to produce more episodes, then please consider becoming a patron on Patreon.com. You can join for just $1 a month. Patrons get first access to podcast episodes, as well as updates on what I'm working on for JapanKyo.com. If you join the $3 a month tier you get access to the back catalog of the Japanese Plus Alpha podcast (a short series on interesting Japanese words and features of the Japanese language). If you would like to do a one time donation, that is also possible. Just use the Ko-fi link below. All donations are greatly appreciated! And if you can't support financially, that's ok. Consider telling a friend about the show! Support on Patreon https://patreon.com/japankyo Support on Ko-fi https://www.ko-fi.com/japankyo Links, Videos, Etc. Here's all the relevent links Own The Doge X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/ownthedoge Own The Doge Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ownthedoge/ Bronze Doge X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/BronzeTheDoge John Monarch X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/realjohnmonarch Smoke X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/Smoke_theArtist Follow JapanKyo on Social Media Facebook (@JapankyoNews) https://www.facebook.com/JapankyoNews/ X/Twitter (@JapankyoNews) https://twitter.com/japankyonews My Personal X/Twitter (@TheVegaTony) https://twitter.com/TheVegaTony Instagram (@JapanKyoNews) https://instagram.com/japankyonews YouTube (@JapanKyoNews) https://www.youtube.com/@japankyonews For More Visit JapanKyo.com For more of my Japan-focused content, visit the JapanKyo website JapanKyo.com
Subscribe to the JapanKyo YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@japankyonews Watch the Tokaido Challenge video series Part 1 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zYU41Z0G4Uc&t=6s Part 2 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F-1WTOptzYY&t=18s Part 3 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BMFnK5sN9mI&t=5s Tony Dot Vega X/Twitter https://twitter.com/thevegatony JapanKyo X/Twitter https://twitter.com/japankyonews MAJISON X/Twitter https://twitter.com/majisonchan
On this episode of Japan Station, licensed travel guide Miyuki Seguchi shares 5 travel tips that will help you make the most out of your next visit to Japan. Topics Discussed What the process is like for becoming a licensed travel guide The importance of planning your trip to Japan Advice for making the most out of your trip to Japan How booking a tour can help you enjoy your trip in Japan even more 5 tips you should keep in mind when preparing to travel to Japan And much more Support on Patreon & Ko-fi If you enjoy Ichimon Japan and want to ensure that we're able to produce more episodes, then please consider becoming a patron on Patreon.com. You can join for just $1 a month. Patrons get first access to podcast episodes, as well as updates on what I'm working on for JapanKyo.com. If you join the $3 a month tier you get access to the back catalog of the Japanese Plus Alpha podcast (a short series on interesting Japanese words and features of the Japanese language). If you would like to do a one time donation, that is also possible. Just use the Ko-fi link below. All donations are greatly appreciated! And if you can't support financially, that's ok. Consider telling a friend about the show! Support on Patreon https://patreon.com/japankyo Support on Ko-fi https://www.ko-fi.com/japankyo Links, Videos, Etc. See below for all the relevant links. Free resources for Japan travel planning The FREE step by step Japan Travel Guide: the 7 steps to creating your unique immersive travel experience: https://www.miyukiseguchi.com/travelguide The Japan Experts Podcast: https://podfollow.com/japan-experts Guided tours with Miyuki: The Uniquely Japan Tours in Central Japan: https://www.miyukiseguchi.com/tours Miyuki Seguchi Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/japan.experts Miyuki Seguchi Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/japanexpertsmiyuki Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/japanexperts Follow JapanKyo on Social Media Facebook (@JapankyoNews) https://www.facebook.com/JapankyoNews/ X/Twitter (@JapankyoNews) https://twitter.com/japankyonews My Personal X/Twitter (@TheVegaTony) https://twitter.com/TheVegaTony Instagram (@JapanKyoNews) https://instagram.com/japankyonews YouTube (@JapanKyoNews) https://www.youtube.com/@japankyonews For More Visit JapanKyo.com For more of my Japan-focused content, visit the JapanKyo website JapanKyo.com
On this episode of Japan Station, I talk about what it was like getting a massage by a maid in Akihabara. Topics Discussed About Akihabara Maid Reflexology Felicie About what it was like getting massaged by a maid in Akihabara About how much it costs to get a massage by a maid in Akihabara About getting a foot massage by a maid in Akihabara About whether you should get a massage by a maid in Akihabara And much more Support on Patreon & Ko-fi If you enjoy Ichimon Japan and want to ensure that we're able to produce more episodes, then please consider becoming a patron on Patreon.com. You can join for just $1 a month. Patrons get first access to podcast episodes, as well as updates on what I'm working on for JapanKyo.com. If you join the $3 a month tier you get access to the back catalog of the Japanese Plus Alpha podcast (a short series on interesting Japanese words and features of the Japanese language). If you would like to do a one time donation, that is also possible. Just use the Ko-fi link below. All donations are greatly appreciated! And if you can't support financially, that's ok. Consider telling a friend about the show! Support on Patreon https://patreon.com/japankyo Support on Ko-fi https://www.ko-fi.com/japankyo Links, Videos, Etc. See below for the link to Felicie Akihabara Maid Reflexology Felicie (秋葉原メイドリフレクソロジー フェリシー): https://felicie-web.com/ Follow JapanKyo on Social Media Facebook (@JapankyoNews) https://www.facebook.com/JapankyoNews/ X/Twitter (@JapankyoNews) https://twitter.com/japankyonews My Personal X/Twitter (@TheVegaTony) https://twitter.com/TheVegaTony Instagram (@JapanKyoNews) https://instagram.com/japankyonews YouTube (@JapanKyoNews) https://www.youtube.com/@japankyonews For More Visit JapanKyo.com For more of my Japan-focused content, visit the JapanKyo website JapanKyo.com
On this episode of Japan Station, I talk about the time I was harassed in Japan.. Topics Discussed Getting harassed in Japan How I dealt with being harassed at a Japanese train station And much more Support on Patreon & Ko-fi If you enjoy Ichimon Japan and want to ensure that we're able to produce more episodes, then please consider becoming a patron on Patreon.com. You can join for just $1 a month. Patrons get first access to podcast episodes, as well as updates on what I'm working on for JapanKyo.com. If you join the $3 a month tier you get access to the back catalog of the Japanese Plus Alpha podcast (a short series on interesting Japanese words and features of the Japanese language). If you would like to do a one time donation, that is also possible. Just use the Ko-fi link below. All donations are greatly appreciated! And if you can't support financially, that's ok. Consider telling a friend about the show! Support on Patreon https://patreon.com/japankyo Support on Ko-fi https://www.ko-fi.com/japankyo Links, Videos, Etc. To find out more about the Tokaido Challenge, check out the link below https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NeJUpY7aJN0 Follow JapanKyo on Social Media Facebook (@JapankyoNews) https://www.facebook.com/JapankyoNews/ X/Twitter (@JapankyoNews) https://twitter.com/japankyonews My Personal X/Twitter (@TheVegaTony) https://twitter.com/TheVegaTony Instagram (@JapanKyoNews) https://instagram.com/japankyonews YouTube (@JapanKyoNews) https://www.youtube.com/@japankyonews For More Visit JapanKyo.com For more of my Japan-focused content, visit the JapanKyo website JapanKyo.com
On this episode of Japan Station, I talk about my experience walking 500 km from Kyoto to Tokyo in September-October 2023. Check it out to learn about the Tokaido Challenge (a.k.a. the craziest adventure I've ever had in Japan). Topics Discussed What the Tōkaidō Challenge is What the Tōkaidō road is The many different Tōkaidō raods that exist When I started walking How long it took to walk from Kyoto to Tokyo The difficulties I had to face while walking the Tōkaidō The parts of the Tōkaidō I had to omit The difficult areas of the Tōkaidō road About the Hakone area of the Tōkaidō road (Kyū Tōkaidō/Kyūkaidō) About getting lost About the 53 stations/post towns of the Tōkaidō About the famous series of woodblock prints depicting the 53 stations of the Tōkaidō The usual amount I would walk on any given day while walking from Kyoto to Tokyo About getting lost in the middle of some rice fields in rural Japan About walking through a tunnel in Kyoto About getting stopped by police in Japan About falling down in Mishima How helpful people were About the excellent customer service I experienced What I ate during my walk from Kyoto to Tokyo Where I stayed/slept while walking from Kyoto to Tokyo About the difficulties of trying to find food on my own About the weather About the arriving in Nihonbashi in Tokyo About the party I held at Pintology Tokyo About meeting Kuro About the coastline between Shizuoka City and Yaizu Why I do what I do And much more Support on Patreon & Ko-fi If you enjoy Ichimon Japan and want to ensure that we're able to produce more episodes, then please consider becoming a patron on Patreon.com. You can join for just $1 a month. Patrons get first access to podcast episodes, as well as updates on what I'm working on for JapanKyo.com. If you join the $3 a month tier you get access to the back catalog of the Japanese Plus Alpha podcast (a short series on interesting Japanese words and features of the Japanese language). If you would like to do a one time donation, that is also possible. Just use the Ko-fi link below. All donations are greatly appreciated! And if you can't support financially, that's ok. Consider telling a friend about the show! Support on Patreon https://patreon.com/japankyo Support on Ko-fi https://www.ko-fi.com/japankyo Links, Videos, Etc. A few links for things mentioned int he video. Hawaii Association of the Blind: https://hawaii.acb.org/ My X/Twitter post announcing the completion of the Tokaido Challenge: https://twitter.com/TheVegaTony/status/1714940372374458608 My personal X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/TheVegaTony The MAJISON X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/majisonchan Follow JapanKyo on Social Media Facebook (@JapankyoNews) https://www.facebook.com/JapankyoNews/ X/Twitter (@JapankyoNews) https://twitter.com/japankyonews My Personal X/Twitter (@TheVegaTony) https://twitter.com/TheVegaTony Instagram (@JapanKyoNews) https://instagram.com/japankyonews YouTube (@JapanKyoNews) https://www.youtube.com/@japankyonews For More Visit JapanKyo.com For more of my Japan-focused content, visit the JapanKyo website JapanKyo.com
On this episode of Japan Station, I talk to musician NEONshe about how she fell in love with Japan, how Japan inspired her music, her time in Japan, her upcoming move to Japan and more. Topics Discussed About NEONshe and her musical career NEONshe's time living in Japan How she became interested in Japan The Japanese music artists that have influenced NEONshe Perfumre, Kyary Pamyu Pamyu, Nakata Yasutaka About NEONshe's first album J-POP The inspiration for NEONshe's song Osaka Child About NEONshe's upcoming move to Kyoto And much more Support on Patreon & Ko-fi If you enjoy Ichimon Japan and want to ensure that we're able to produce more episodes, then please consider becoming a patron on Patreon.com. You can join for just $1 a month. Patrons get first access to podcast episodes, as well as updates on what I'm working on for JapanKyo.com. If you join the $3 a month tier you get access to the back catalog of the Japanese Plus Alpha podcast (a short series on interesting Japanese words and features of the Japanese language). If you would like to do a one time donation, that is also possible. Just use the Ko-fi link below. All donations are greatly appreciated! And if you can't support financially, that's ok. Consider telling a friend about the show! Support on Patreon https://patreon.com/japankyo Support on Ko-fi https://www.ko-fi.com/japankyo Links, Videos, Etc. For more on NEONshe, check out the links below. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/neonshe YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCfMYuLyd786V4Xs8gm2UxsQ Ride the Tide: https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/neonshe/ride-the-tide-feat-jey-cordz Linktree: https://linktr.ee/neonshe Follow JapanKyo on Social Media Facebook (@JapankyoNews) https://www.facebook.com/JapankyoNews/ X/Twitter (@JapankyoNews) https://twitter.com/japankyonews My Personal X/Twitter (@TheVegaTony) https://twitter.com/TheVegaTony Instagram (@JapanKyoNews) https://instagram.com/japankyonews YouTube (@JapanKyoNews) https://www.youtube.com/@japankyonews Full Show Notes Get the full version of show notes at https://www.japankyo.com/category/podcasts/japanstation/
On this episode of Japan Station, I talk to Maud Rowell, a freelance journalist and writer who spent a year traveling around Japan. Topics Discussed About Maud Rowell About traveling around Japan as a person with a visual impairment About Blind Spot About becoming interested in Japan About getting a scholarship to travel around a Japan for a year About visiting Hachijojima (青ヶ島) and Aogashima About public transportation in Japan About tactile paving/yellow braille blocks About accessibility for the blind in Japan About doing the 88 Temple Pilgrimmage in Shikoku And much more Support on Patreon & Ko-fi If you enjoy Ichimon Japan and want to ensure that we're able to produce more episodes, then please consider becoming a patron on Patreon.com. You can join for just $1 a month. Patrons get first access to podcast episodes, as well as updates on what I'm working on for JapanKyo.com. If you join the $3 a month tier you get access to the back catalog of the Japanese Plus Alpha podcast (a short series on interesting Japanese words and features of the Japanese language). If you would like to do a one time donation, that is also possible. Just use the Ko-fi link below. All donations are greatly appreciated! And if you can't support financially, that's ok. Consider telling a friend about the show! Support on Patreon https://patreon.com/japankyo Support on Ko-fi https://www.ko-fi.com/japankyo Links, Videos, Etc. Fore more on Maud Rowell Blind Spot - Maud Rowell: https://www.404ink.com/store/inklings-blind-spot Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/where.birds.wont.go/ Follow JapanKyo on Social Media Facebook (@JapankyoNews) https://www.facebook.com/JapankyoNews/ Twitter (@JapankyoNews) https://twitter.com/japankyonews Instagram (@JapanKyoNews) https://instagram.com/japankyonews Full Show Notes Get the full version of show notes at https://www.japankyo.com/category/podcasts/japanstation/
On September 21st I'm starting something I'm calling the MAJISON Tokaido Challenge. Basically I'll be walking over 300 miles from Kyoto to Tokyo over the course of around 30 days. Watch the video to find out more about this crazy challenge and why I decided to do it. Topics Discussed About walking from Kyoto to Tokyo About walking the Tokaido About the MAJISON Tokaido Challenge About MAJISON And much more Support on Patreon & Ko-fi If you enjoy Japan Station and want to ensure that we're able to produce more episodes, then please consider becoming a patron on Patreon.com. For a minimum pledge of $1 a month you'll get early access to all JapanKyo podcasts, bonus content, and more. And for $3 a month, you'll get access to Japanese Plus Alpha, a podcast produced by me (Tony Vega) that focuses on the Japanese language and all of its fascinating quirks. Also, all pledges get a shout-out on the show and my undying gratitude. Thank you in advance! Support Japan Station on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/japankyo You can also do a one time donation via Ko-fi. Support us on Ko-fi https://ko-fi.com/japankyo Links, Videos, Etc. Tony Vega Twitter https://twitter.com/thevegatony MAJISON Twitter https://twitter.com/majisonchan Hawaii Association of the Blind https://hawaii.acb.org/ Follow JapanKyo on Social Media Facebook (@JapankyoNews) https://www.facebook.com/JapankyoNews/ Twitter (@JapankyoNews) https://twitter.com/japankyonews Instagram (@JapanKyoNews) https://instagram.com/japankyonews Full Show Notes Get the full version of show notes at https://www.japankyo.com/category/podcasts/japanstation/
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