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The last day on Nakasendō Trail brought some unexpected moments including a sudden change of plans, but that didn't stop us from enjoying every moment. Turn in to hear how the journey wrapped up! This episode's vocab list: 実は actually 歩くのをやめました。I decided not to walk山を越える to cross a mountain きっと surely; certainly 実際 actual condition; in reality; in practiceオフシーズンだったため because it was off-seasonお店があんまり開いていませんでした。Many shops were not open.有名な橋を渡りたかったです。 I wanted to cross the famous bridge予定より時間が余りました。 We had more spare time than planned松本のホテルまで移動する to head up to the hotel in Matsumoto松本の観光 sightseeing in Matsumoto旅行の予定を立てる to make a travel plan臨機応変に depending on the circumstances; flexibly変更できるようにしておく to make it possible to change用意しておきましょう。It's better to be prepared何より more than anything達成感 a sense of achievement熊野古道 Kumano Kodo in Wakayama prefecture四国のお遍路 the pilgrimage in Shikoku island

On Day 3, we took a one-day break from walking the Nakasendō Trail, but we unexpectedly caught a breathtaking view. Even without the trail, we discovered something truly special and worth sharing. Check it out! This episode's vocab list: 中山道トレイルを中休みしました。We had a one-day break from walking the Nakasendo Trail.2日目の夜から2泊しました。We stayed 2 nights from the 2nd night of the trip最寄り駅 the nearest station移動するto move (from one place to another); travel; head to とはいえ though we had a break; that said; even so阿寺渓谷 Atera Valley; Atera Gorgeエメラルドグリーン emerald green素晴らしかったです。It was stunning; amazing; marvellous;breathtaking川沿いalong the river 途中から from halfway 雪がたくさん積もっていました。A lot of snow had accumulated/piled upひんやりしたchilly冷たい空気 cold air 夏なら if it's summer次回 the next time中山道トレイルの最終回 the final episode about our Nakasendo Trail journey

On Day 2, we walked to Tsumago-juku along the Nakasendō trail. It was a great experience. Check it out and enjoy my story! This episode's vocab list: 大型連休 the long consecutive holidays真っ最中 right in the middle最初は in the beginning上り坂 uphill slope朝早くから出発しました。 we departed early in the morning天候にも恵まれました。 we were blessing with good weather新鮮な空気 fresh air澄んだ青空 clear blue sky印象的でした。It was impressive.展望台 lookout point; observation deck 早くも already 随分前に a very long time ago 残り remaining案の定 as expected大きく転んでしまいました。I slipped and fell down badly.バックパックが守ってくれました。 my backpack protected me怪我 injury 前日 the previous day 半分以上 more than half昔の町並み historical streets of a town残念でした That's unfortunate. 充実感 a sense of fulfillment達成感 a sense of achievement引き続き continuallyこの続きは次回をお楽しみに！Look forward to the continuation in the next episode.

We stayed one night at Magome Ryokan - a beautiful traditional inn that made us feel like we'd stepped back in time. It was a wonderful, invaluable experience full of charm and nostalgia. Tune in to hear all about it! This episode's vocab list: 4連休 a 4-day long weekend 予定 plan先週お話したように as I mentioned last week初めての体験 first experience; new experience そのうちの1つ one of them 旧中山道 Old Nakasendoあぜ道 pathway between rice fields住宅が並んでいました。 residential buildings lined along the streets一日目 the first day中津川駅 Nakatsugawa station 歩き始めるTo start walking中津川宿 Nakatsugawa, a former post town on the Nakasendō宿場町a post town普通の田舎町 a typical regional town近づいていく to get closer and closer実感できます。You can really feel itおさむらいさんたち Samurai warriors不思議な気持ちになるto have a miraculous sense of connection.着こむ to wear a lot目的地 the destination; the goal 馬籠宿 Magome, a former post town on the Nakasendōお店も並んでいます。 Shops are also lined up.気に入りました。I like it now.観光バス tour busまたこの続きは来週をお楽しみに！Look forward to the continuation next week.

Nakasendō is one of Japan's historic trails, and is still populartoday. I walked just a small part of it. Even though it was off- season, I still enjoyed the experience. On the first day, I walked from Nakatsugawa JR station up to Magome-juku, a post town along the Nakasendō. Check it out! This episode's vocab list: 4連休 a 4-day long weekend 予定 plan先週お話したように as I mentioned last week初めての体験 first experience; new experience そのうちの1つ one of them 旧中山道 Old Nakasendoあぜ道 pathway between rice fields住宅が並んでいました。 residential buildings lined along the streets一日目 the first day中津川駅 Nakatsugawa station 歩き始めるTo start walking中津川宿 Nakatsugawa, a former post town on the Nakasendō宿場町a post town普通の田舎町 a typical regional town近づいていく to get closer and closer実感できます。You can really feel itお侍さんたち Samurai warriors不思議な気持ちになるto have a miraculous sense of connection.着こむ to wear a lot目的地 the destination; the goal 馬籠宿 Magome, a former post town on the Nakasendōお店も並んでいます。 Shops are also lined up.気に入りました。I like it now.観光バス tour busまたこの続きは来週をお楽しみに！Look forward to the continuation next week.

I'm back! Thank you so much for your patience. In this episode, I'll share what I've been up to during the past month. Please check it out! This episode's vocab list: 一か月以上 more than one monthくことをお知らせしようと思っていました。 I was planning to let you know出発前 before departing; before leaving想像以上に more than I imagined 初めての体験 first experience 昔々 long time ago道 pathway 一部 one partスノーシュー snowshoe雪の森 snowy forest 着いた所 place where we got to雪の池 snow-covered pond雪と言うより氷の滝 waterfalls with ice rather than snow言葉では表せないくらい素敵でした。It was so wonderful that words can't describe it.お寺 templeホテルゲストのように泊まる to stay like a hotel guest瞑想meditation朝のお経 morning prayer service with chants参加するTo participate精進料理 vegetarian cuisine ひとつずつ one by one詳しくお話したいです。 I want to talk about it in detail

Valentine's Day is coming! What do you usually do in your country? Do you know what people do in Japan on this day? Listen to this episode to learn more about Japanese Valentine's Day traditions. Happy Valentine's Day! This episode's vocab list:バレンタインデー Valentine's Day日本人らしいイベント an event that matches Japanese characteristics一番最初にバレンタインデーが日本に紹介されたのは、The first time the Valentine's Day was introduced to Japan was神戸 Kobe cityチョコレートメーカー a chocolate manufacturer宣伝 advertisement; promotion; campaign最初に興味を示したのは、 The first group to show interest wasそれが1970年代。That was in the 1970s.女の子が男の子に愛を告白する girls confess their love to boys常識が生まれました。This common knowledge was born.大人たちに浸透していくTo spread among adults日本風にin the Japanese style

Shopping and enjoying Japanese food are probably some of your top reasons for visiting Japan, right? Make sure you are well prepared to fully enjoy them. I hope this episode helps with both your travels and your Japanese learning.   This episode's vocab list: 払う to pay PINと呼ばれる暗証番号 a passcode called PIN サインをする to sign; to put your signature 3月末まで until the end of March 暗証番号がないと without the passcode 支払い payment 原則 in principle 普段から regularly 国によって depending on the country 登録されていない to not be registered これまで通り as before; as usual; the way it has been so far 本人確認 identity verification 1万円未満 less than 10,000 yen 4月以降 from April onwards

My new hobby: Zero waste! Am I stingy? I don't mind. I'm enjoying zero waste now. This episode's vocab list:  テレビ局 TV station リサイクル recycle いわゆる what is called リメイク remake 材料 material 布 fabric 帯 belt worn with kimono ボロボロになる to become worn out or ragged そのまま as it is ボタン button 紐 string; cord 取って置く to set it aside; keep it for later これこそ This is けち stingy; not generous with money みみっちい stingy; mean 逆に on the contrary もったいない wasteful; what a waste ミニマリスト minimalist 流行っている to be trending 物を減らすために in order to lessen things or reduce clutter 使い切る to completely use it まさに一石二鳥です！It is truly a case of killing two birds with one stone.

Sad news, but I believe Japan can find a way to solve this problem!   This episode's vocab list: 猛暑日extreme heatwave days 雨が降ってほしいと願っています。I'm wishing for rain soon. スキー場がにぎわっています。 Ski resorts are crowded and lively. その反面 on the other hand スキー場を含め including ski resorts 観光地 tourist areas 問題 issue; problem ゴミ rubbish; garbage; trash ゴミ箱が少ないです。 There are few rubbish bins その結果かどうかは分かりません。 I'm not sure if it happens as a result 道にゴミを捨てる人は、ゴミ箱がないから道に捨てるんでしょうか。Do you think people throw rubbish on the street because there are no bins? 私の持論 my fixed opinion; my firm belief ゴミ箱がなければ持って帰る to take it home if there's no bin ゴミ箱があってもなくても it doesn't matter whether there is a bin or not 捨てる人は捨てます。 People who throw rubbish would throw it anyway ゴミが出る所 the places where rubbish ends up 必ずゴミ箱はあります。 There should always be a rubbish bin 食べ歩き eating as you stroll 立って食べる to eat while standing 紙に包む to wrap it up in paper 入れておくTo put it in and leave it there. 次にゴミ箱を見つけた時に、捨てればいいんです。You can throw it away when you find a bin next time: it's not a big deal. Just do it! 少し協力するだけ only a small amount of cooperation どうしたらいいと思いますか。What do you recommend they do to solve the problem? 日本のよさをそのままに by preserving the best aspects of Japan このゴミ問題を解決する方法 the way to solve this rubbish problem

This episode is far from scary! It's all about quite positive thinking and mindset. Check it out and let the good vibe flow!   This episode's vocab list: 病院の救急外来 emergency outpatient department at the hospital 辛い数日 a few painful days 湿疹 skin rash 両腕 both arms 両脚 both legs 痒い itchy 耐えられませんでした。I couldn't stand it 氷で痒い所を冷やす to cool the itchy parts with ice すぐ痒みが止まります。The itching stops quickly. また痒みが出ます。The itch will come back again 年始早々 Right at the beginning of the New Year 縁起が悪い inauspicious; unlucky; bad omen これで厄払いできました。I was able to drive out Evil Spirits with this; This helped me drive away bad luck. 苦しい事struggles, difficulties, challenges 辛い事 tough time, painful experiences, hardships 大変な事 difficult situations, tough matters, challenging things 追い出す to force out; drive out; expel; kick out 実際に見えるものではない invisible 宗教的に聞こえます。it sounds like religious 同じ状況でも even in the same situation or circumstances どんな気持ちでいるかによって depending on how you feel; depending on the emotions you're experiencing

New Year's Greetings: I hope we can share more time together this year through this podcast.   This episode's vocab list: お正月 New Year's Day and the days that follow どのように過ごしましたか。How did you spend your time? 体中 all over my body 虫に刺されました。 I got bitten by bugs いろいろな面で in various aspects 準備をしっかりする to make thorough preparation そうは言っても、Even so; That being said 挑戦したいです。I want to take on a challenge 言葉にすると、目標に近づけます。By putting it into words, you will get closer to your goal. 見返す to look back at it; to review it メイトさんと繋がっている to stay connected with you

How was your 2024? Check it out! This is the last episode of this year. Thank you for listening to my podcast again this year. Wishing you a wonderful festive season and a very happy New Year!   This episode's vocab list: 4週間ぶり first time in 4 weeks 言い訳 excuse 振り返ると When I look back on the past 今年は人生で一番忙しい年だったかもしれません。This year might have been the busiest year of my life. 大袈裟だったかな。Was it exaggerating? 改めてonce again or anew; afresh 実行する to carry out; put into action ことわざ proverb 終わり the end 途中 on the way; in the middle of it; during the time 総合的な評価 overall assessment 些細な事 small things 祝日 public holiday 来年も引き続き continuing into next year よいお年をお迎えください。Wishing you a Happy New Year!

What katakana words confuse you? Is “Mansion” one of them? Check it out!   This episode's vocab list: どんな建物 building モデルルーム show apartment/ show flat 普通のアパート standard apartment/flat 紛らわしい misleading; confusing; ambiguous その違いは、はっきりと決められている訳ではないそうです。I found that the distinction isn't clearly or officially defined. それでも一般的には、Even so, generally speaking, 木造 wooden building 軽量鉄骨造 light steel-frame building 3階建て 3-story 鉄筋コンクリート造 reinforced concrete building 鉄骨鉄筋コンクリート造 steel-frame reinforced concrete building これは正しいとか正しくないとか、そういうものではない This is not about whether something is correct or incorrect エレベーターがあるかないかを目安にする to use the presence or absence of an elevator as a standard 義務 obligation 自信を持つ to have confidence

How is your Japanese learning journey going? Do you struggle with Katakana words? I recently came across a Katakana word that I hadn't noticed was strange before. Now, it's part of my ‘strange word' group. Check it out!   This episode's vocab list: カタカナ語に苦労する to struggle/challenge with Katakana words 英語のような発音 pronunciation that sounds like English 通じません。It's not understood /It isn't coming through. 英語以外の言葉 languages other than English フランス語 French ポルトガル語 Portuguese ドイツ語 German オランダ語 Dutch その中でも特に変なのは The especially strange ones among them are ブランド名 Brand name ３つとも all three 使い始めました。They began using カタカナ語の由来 the origin of that katakana word ただの偶然かもしれません。It might be just a coincidence. 部品 parts of the product

What autumn foods make your appetite grow? Do you know any autumn foods from Japan? Guess what I will be introducing in this episode. Check it out!   This episode's vocab list: 毎年話している気がします I feel like I talk about this every year 食欲の秋 Autumn: the season of good appetite 私たちの食欲が増すOur appetite increases. 個人的な意見ですが、This is just my personal opinion, but 栗 chestnut 柿 persimmon さんま pacific saury 上げればきりがないほどあります。There are too many to list because the possibilities are endless. お米 rice 新米 new rice 並べる to set side by side 新米は収穫した年の12月31日までに袋詰めされたお米です。Shinmai refers to rice that has been polished and packed by the 31st of December of the harvest year. この時期だけ only during this period いつものご飯と全然違いますよ。It's completely different from rice we usually eat. もちもちした食感を体験してほしいです。I want you to experience its pleasantly chewy, slightly sticky texture.

“You can do it” is now one of my favourite phrases. I used to misunderstand what it meant, but I've come to appreciate its significance. I hope this episode inspires to have more heartfelt exchanges with others. This episode's vocab list: 学ぶ to learn がんばって Good luck; Go for it; hang in there; do your best 表現 expression 相手 the other person 応援している to support; to cheer 伝える to convey 覚えてほしいです I want you to remember 高校生 high school student 答えが返って来ました。The answer/reply returned to me 信じている to believe 誤解していました。I misunderstood. 別の生徒さん other student 克服したい to want to overcome a challenge 英語に訳さなくてもいい not necessary to translate into English 応援している気持ちを受け取ってください。Please accept their feelings of support. Please accept their heartfelt encouragement.

What would your answer be to this question, “What day is the 10th of October?” I've found various interesting pieces of information about this date. Enjoy learning Japanese though this episode! This episode's vocab list: 体育 physical education 祝日 public holiday どうして10月10日かというと The reason why it's set for the 10th of October is because 開会式the opening ceremony 移動する to move; transfer 延期 postpone 2年連続  2 years in a row 第2月曜日 the second Monday 「体育の日」を思い出します。It reminds me of the Taiiku no hi holiday 目の愛護 eye protection; eye care 横向きに倒す to turn them sideways; lay them down sideways 眉毛 eyebrow 転倒slipping over; tripping over 予防 prevention 発想conception; way of thinking 銭湯 public bath パターン pattern; way 世界的に Internationally

Which term do you use for a mobile phone in your language: ‘mobile' or ‘phone'? Languages are changing and we often find that there can be more than one correct answer. Enjoy learning Japanese! This episode's vocab list: 残り3か月になりました。 There are 3 months left. ちょっと焦ります。 I'm feeling a bit anxious or stressed. 目の前のことにひとつずつ取り組みます。 I'll tackle each task one by one, focusing on what's right in front of me. 早速始めます。I'll start right away. 言語 language 時代とともに変わって行きます。It'll change with the times. 母国語 mother language; first language; native language 疑問 question; wonder なんて言いますか。What would you say? 違いはない there is no difference 自然にnaturally 我が家 my home 家電Home phone 確実に certainly 時代とともに over time; as time goes by 「電話」の代表 representative of a phone 「携帯」になりつつある to be becoming “mobile”; to be transitioning to “mobile” 日本人はどうだろうかと疑問に思いました。I wondered how Japanese people do 今でも still now 正しい答えは、ひとつとは限りません。Correct answers are not limited to just one.

Are you planning a long holiday in Japan -  weeks, months or even years? How long would you like to stay if you could? I am curious about the types of visas that make extended stays possible for tourists. Take a break and join me for a chat! This episode's vocab list: どんなビザ what type of visa 滞在 the temporary nature of the stay 計画している人が何人かいます。There are a few people who are making plans. 観光ビザ tourist visa いろいろ条件があります。 There are various requirements they need to meet. 詳しいです。 I'm knowledgeable about it. 留学ビザ student visa 以外 other than those どんなところに住んでいますか。What kind of place do you live in?

Did you look up last night? What did you see? Do you prefer the full moon or the new moon? Dive into this episode to explore these celestial Japanese vocabs! This episode's vocab list: 秋 autumn 夜空 night sky 月 the moon 風習 custom お月見moon viewing 別の名前で in another name 秋と言いましたが Although I said autumn もともと Originally 満月 the full moon 風物詩 a symbol of the season; something that gives us the real feeling of a season 新月 the new moon 星 star どちらかと言うと If I have to choose one どちらも捨てがたいです。It's hard to give up either of the two 影 shadow 感動しました。I was moved.

Do you remember what type of compliment made you happiest as a Japanese language learner? One of my students received such a compliment while traveling in Japan recently, and it made me very happy as well! Please check out this episode to find out more! This episode's vocab list: 今回のタイトルにあるように as mentioned in this episode's title 一番の誉め言葉 the best compliment 英語に関しては Regarding English 上手でも下手でもあまり気にならない they don't care whether it's good or bad 基本的に basically コメントしたくなる they will want to comment 旅行中 during their travel; while traveling 「日本のどこに住んでいるんですか」”Where do you live in Japan?” 日本に住んでいる人と同じぐらい日本語が上手だ They speak Japanese as good as foreigners who live in Japan. 嬉しかった誉め言葉 Compliments that made you happy

Just check this out and strengthen your relationship with your Japanese friend! This episode's vocab list: 上手く説明できない unable to explain well 大変hard work; a lot of trouble 残念 disappointing; regrettable 別々に紹介する to introduce them separately 後で later 違いを理解しているか確認するTo check if they understand the difference 生徒さんたちにとっては、とても似ているようです。To students, they seem very similar 何か難しい問題を抱える。To face a difficult issue がんばっています。They are working hard. 言ってあげましょう。I recommend you to say for them この返事 this response 伝える to convey 一方 on the other hand 何か運が悪いこと something unlucky がっかりしていたら if they are disappointed 少し違いが分かりましたか。Did you understand the difference a little? 全然違います。They are completely different. 間違えないように気を付けましょう。Pay attention not to make mistakes.

Do you find it easy to stay committed to something for a long time? If not, how do you motivate yourself to keep doing? Tune in to find out how I am trying to keep my motivation within my grasp! This episode's vocab list: 夏休みが終わろうとしています。Summer holidays are nearly finished. 夏休みの宿題が終わっていない子どもは焦っていると思います。 I think children who haven't completed their homework for summer holidays would be panicking. モチベーション motivation 今でも続けられているのは聞いてくれているメイトさんのおかげです。I am able to continue even now thanks to the support of the Mates, the listeners to this podcast. 何かを長く続けられるタイプの人間 someone who can continue something for a long time モチベーションが私は必要です。Motivation is essential for me. なかなか運動が続きません。I cannot continue exercise easily. 計画する to make a plan 行先 destination 安全で楽しいもの something safe and fun すき間時間intervals of free time 単純ですね。It's simple; it's easy to change one's mind. 毎週続けられたらいいなぁと思っています。I hope I can continue doing it every week. モチベーションを無理やりに作る to force myself to create motivation

Do you know how to say “outings” in Japanese? Check it out! This episode's vocab list: 季節の挨拶 seasonal greeting 暑中見舞い申し上げます sending my best wishes during this hot summer 一般的 general; standard お盆 mid-August 残暑見舞い申し上げますsending my best wishes as the late summer heat lingers 残暑the remaining summer heat 出かける to go out 自然の中で in nature 暑すぎる to be too hot 行楽と言えば、やっぱり秋です。Speaking of outings, autumn is definitely the best season. 人気のホテルはもういっぱいのところもあります。Some popular accommodations are already booked out. 温泉でのんびりする to have a relax time in a hot spring 露天風呂 open-air bath 紅葉 autumn leaves 季節によって、日本の印象が違います。Depending on the　season, Japan gives  different impressions. 季節ごと each season

I hope you find some useful Japanese vocabulary about typhoon reports in this episode. Check it out! This episode's vocab list: 台風の季節 typhoon season 台風7号 the 7th Typhoon of the year 接近しているTo be approaching; be getting closer 北上するTo move north 近づく to get close おそれがあります。 there is a possibility; there is a risk 不安定 unstable 激しい雨 heavy rain 雷thunder 暴風 windstorm 高波 high waves 太平洋側 the Pacific ocean side 少しの雨でも危険です。It's dangerous even with a little rain. 土砂災害 mudslide; landslide 川の増水swollen river; rising river 川の氾濫 river flooding; overflowing river 警戒 caution; precaution; guard 慌てないで without panic; calmly 一人で行動しないで don't take alone; don't take action by yourself 必ず助けを求めましょう。Make sure to ask for help これは、日本人も同じです。This applies to Japanese people as well. 助け合いましょう。We should help each other.

I hope you find some useful Japanese phrases about stress in this episode. Check it out! This episode's vocab list: 申し訳ないです。I'm sorry. It's my apology. 休み明け after the break 相応しくないテーマ unsuitable theme ストレス stress ストレスが溜まっている stress builds up ストレスで参ってしまいそうでした。I was nearly stressed out 私の一番のストレス解消法 my best way of getting rid of stress しなければならないことに追われる to be pressed by what I have to do ストレス解消ができません。I can't get rid of my stress. 時間がなくてもできる to be able to do without a lot of time

What is the difference between Jozu and Tokui? Explaining this distinction can be quite difficult. Especially in English, it's challenging to find similar words to distinguish between them. Check out this episode! This episode's vocab list: 先週に引き続き continuing from last week 高い能力high ability; talent 正解 correct answer どうしてかと言うと That's because … 主観的評価 personal judgement; subjective evaluation 客観的評価 objective judgement 個人的な意見 personal opinion それに対して On the other hand 発言 statement; speech 根拠 reason; ground 過去形 past tense スッキリしましたか。Did it clear up? Did it make sense?

What do you translate as “time” in Japanese? Toki or Jikan? How are they different? Explore these questions in this episode. I hope this supports your learning. This episode's vocab list: 難しいところ difficult point 一番一般的な答え most general answer 「時間」と答えた方も多い Many people answered with Jikan 同じ５つの例 the same 5 examples 使えるものと使えないものがあります。Some can be used and some can't. 使えても、意味が変わる表現もあります。Some expressions change meanings even though they can be used both ways. time for childrenの意味に聞こえます。It sounds like the meaning of “time for children” どんな長さの時間でも any length of the period 暑いと感じた瞬間moments I felt hot 何時間 how many hours 何日 how many days 何か月 how many months 何年 how many years

Even when we pursue our passions or we know our goals, we often need external support to sustain our efforts. Sometimes, we find ourselves vulnerable when alone, but resilient when supported by others, even if their paths differ from ours. When do you experience positive motivation? This episode's vocab list: 先々週 the week before last 予告なく without announcement; without prior notice 恐らくprobably 北半球Northern hemisphere 南半球Southern hemisphere 季節の変わり目 when the seasons change 体調を崩しやすい easy to get sick 再来月 the month after next 日本に引っ越します。They are moving to Japan 寂しくもあります。I also feel sad that I will miss them. 夢を叶える to make a dream come true 羽ばたいていく生徒さん　Students who will spread their wings and fly to embark on a new journey 力が湧きます。They fill me with power/strength いい刺激を与えてくれる人someone who gives you good stimulation; someone who provides good motivation そんな存在 such a person

Did you know Japan has a rainy season? It's staring now. I talked about this unique period and share recommendations for activities to make the most of it. Check it out and discover what Japan's rainy season has to offer. This episode's vocab list: 季節 season 梅雨入りthe onset of the rainy season 本州の北の方 the Northern part of honshu, the main island of Japan 6月中旬 mid-June 下旬 the end of the month 梅雨明け ending the rainy season 天気予報 weather forecast ローカルならではunique to the local area; something only found locally この時期ならでは unique to this season; specific to this time of year 梅雨の風物詩 a symbol of the rainy season アジサイ hydrangea 全国各地 everywhere in the country 名所 noted place ピッタリ just right 感動しますよ。I bet you will be impressed by the scenery. 代表的 representing 花菖蒲 iris アジサイと比べると with a comparison with hydrangea 一万四千 14 thousand ホタル観賞 firefly viewing 神秘的 mystic 博物館 museum 美術館 art museum 科学館 science museum 地元の人 local people 日本人観光客 domestic tourists 活動的 active 空いている to not be crowed マイナスなことばかりではありません。There are not only negative things.

Do you have any tips for making a travel plan? I have a new one to share with you here. Check it out! This episode's vocab list: 旅行の計画を立てる to make a travel plan どこまでしっかり決めますか。How details and precise do you decide it? How thoroughly do you plan it? その日その日に day by day; each day 決めないという人もいるかもしれませんね。Some may not decide; may not make any plans. ちょっとした秘訣 a little secret; a small tip 完全に completely そうゆうタイプでした。I was that type of person. 計画を変える to change the plan 問題ないです that's no problem 先に beforehand 考え方 way of thinking; mindset 情報 information 決めていたことができないと If you couldn't do what you decide 少なからず not a little bit 残念に思いますよね。You're disappointed. 最初から決めていなければ If I didn't decide from the beginning できたことを喜べます。I can be glad for I've accomplished 発想の転換です。It's a different angle of looking at it. 海外旅行 oversea travel 日帰り旅行 one-day trip 計画上手になる to become good at planning ヒント a tip いつも以上に more than usual

Now, renting a bike in Japan is very easy to find and organise, and also makes it convenient even for travellers. Why not give it a try? I hope it adds more fulfilled moments for your next visit to Japan. This episode's vocab list: やっと涼しくなって来ました。It's finally become cool. 主人 my husband 遠いところ somewhere far away 片道 one way 電動自転車 electric bike 長距離 a long distance 以前 before 観光地 tourist cities or spots よく見かけました。I often saw them. 住宅地 residential areas 街中 middle of the city 駐輪場に置いてあります。They are parked in the bike parking lot. アプリ app 予約 booking 支払い payment 人とのコンタクトなしで借りられる to be able to rent it without any contact with people. 値段 price 手頃 reasonable あちこち回ったら if you go around here, there, everywhere 爽やかな風 refreshing breeze 自転車で走れる to be able to ride a bike 次の旅行のプランに加えてみてください！ Please add it to your next travel plan.

Are you confused by any homophones or pitch accents in Japanese? You may discover a new tricky aspect of the language. Just laugh! Every language has its own tricky elements for learners. This episode's vocab list: 日本語にある音の数 the number of sounds in the Japanese language 英語と比べると compared to English 同音異義語 homophones とは言え、 however; although that was said, 話の内容 context of the conversation or story もうひとつ例を挙げる to give another example もう、笑うしかありません。No way, we have no choice but to laugh. これで解決します！ This will solve the issue.

Looking to improve your Japanese language skills? Finding conversation partners can be one of the best ways. But where do you find them? Tune in to this episode to find out. You just might discover a new perspective on Japanese practice. This episode's vocab list: 目的 purpose 共通の趣味 common hobbies; common interests 日本人プレーヤーを探す to look for Japanese players 協力的な人ばかりではありません Not everyone is cooperative. 基本的に basically 一石二鳥ですね。It's a case of killing two birds with one stone. いい出会い good encounter; nice meeting 思いつかなかった所 a place I didn't think of; a place I didn't consider

Navigating a doctor's visit in a foreign country can be daunting. How do you prepare for such an experience? Join me in this episode as I introduce my simple strategy for overcoming this challenge. This episode's vocab list: 初めて for the first time 眼医者 eye doctor; ophthalmologist ドライアイが気になりました。 I worried about dry eyes 緊張する to feel nervous それに moreover; also 聞きなれない言葉 unfamiliar words たまたまpurely by chance 主人もその時間空いていました。My husband also had that time period free 検査の結果 the result of the examination 意識的に瞬きをする to blink consciously 目薬をさす to apply eye drops 瞼を暖める to warm eyelids 目が潤う the eyes become moist or hydrated 前もって beforehand 気持ちが楽になります。I will feel better. 心の準備 mental preparation

Do you know about Japan's 3 major holiday seasons? One of them is coming up this weekend! Are you eager to experience the festivities or looking to plan your visit around them? This episode's vocab list: 土日 Saturday & Sunday 祝日 public holiday 天皇 Emperor 建国記念日 National Foundation Day 翌月曜日 following Monday 振替休日a Monday makeup holiday ゴールデンウィークを知らずに without knowing it will be the Golden Week 計画を立てる to make a plan ゴールデンウィーク中 during the Golden Week たくさんの人で賑わっている to be bustling; to be crowded with people 普通では味わえないこと something we cannot experience; savour; appreciate in a standard situation 参考までに just for reference 8月中旬 mid-August 年末年始 from the end of one year to the start of the next new year 避ける to avoid

Do you have any recent happy stories? I do! Join me as I share two of mine here. This episode's vocab list: 嬉しい話 happy story 2組 2 pairs 合計 totally 全員 all of these people 幸せを分けてもらえる to receive a share of their happiness 結婚祝い a wedding gift インターネットショッピングで注文する to order online ちょうど帰国中でした。 she happened to be returning to Japan at just the right time. 届く to be delivered 和紙 handmade Japanese paper ラッピングペーパー wrapping paper 喜んでくれるといいなぁ！I hope they like it. 聞き始める to start listening 旧ツイッター old Twitter 数字 the number; the amount 受け取る to receive 心から続けていてよかったぁって思います。I truly feel glad that I've kept going from the bottom of my heart メイトさんの顔が見られない分、Not being able to see your face makes a result, which will be mentioned after this 繋がっていると感じる to feel like we are connecting 嬉しい気持ちが抑えられない to be unable to hold in my joy and delight

Reading an English short story before bed works very well for me. I am now curious if a Japanese book would have the same effect. If it does, I might have an new idea for my dream. Stay turned! This episode's vocab list: 不眠症に悩んでいる to suffer from insomnia 穏やかな calm; peaceful 意外にもよく効いています。It works better than I expected. 日常everyday life 日記 diary ハラハラドキドキする to be thrilled and have butterflies in one's stomach 同じように効くかどうか試したい to want to test it out whether it works the same as that or not 書いてみたい to give it a try to write 一冊出しました。I released one book. 投稿する to post; contribute 集めた物 a collection 今度は for this time 夢見ています。I am dreaming of it. 言葉 speech; words you have said 不思議な力 miraculous power 言葉通りの事が起きます。the same thing as you said will happen. 心に秘める to keep it hidden in your heart もしくは or

Did you commemorate your first day of primary school with a special ceremony? Listen to this episode as you reflect on significant milestones in your life. Gain fresh insights that may inspire your approach to future milestones.  Enjoy this episode. This episode's vocab list: 入学 admission to school 新学期 a new school term 入社 joining a company; entry to be an employee 節目 "a milestone"; "a significant point to mark a transition or change, often indicating the beginning or end of a phase or marking progress between old and new phases" 節目節目に at each start of a new phase; at every milestone 必ずと言っていいほど "to the point where I can say it happens without fail" or "to the extent that I can confidently say it occurs without fail." 式を開く To hold a ceremony; conduct a ceremony 社会人 a working member of society; working adult 自然と naturally; automatically 通常 normally; generally 入学式があるのが当たり前だと思っていました。 I thought it was natural/normal that we have a ceremony for school entry 寂しく感じます。I feel something lacking. 周りから与えられなくても even if it's not provided from surroundings; even if it's not given by others 発想の転換 a change in perspective; a shift in thinking

At a shop, do you typically pay with cash, credit card, or another method? With the greater variety of payment methods available now than before, have you found it easier to navigate? Are you comfortable with these choices or do you sometimes feel uncertain? Enjoy this episode. This episode's vocab list: 支払う方法 the way of payment 急に suddenly 店員さん shop workers 現金 cash 渡す to hand in 機械に入れる to insert it into the machine セルフレジ self-checkout 画面 screen 戸惑いました。I was at a loss. I was puzzled over. 以前は、formerly; before 確認されました。I was verified. デビットカード debit card クレジットカード以外 except credit cards 定期的に at regular intervals アップデート update

Have you ever experienced losing your wallet or any valuables in Japan? Was it retrieved? Guess what I want to emphasize about this topic. Enjoy this story in Japanese. This episode's vocab list: 財布 wallet 戻って来ましたか。Was it retrieved? どなたの財布も all their wallets 必ず certainly; without fail 学生の頃 in my school days 置き忘れる to leave it behind ボウリング場 bowling centre 貴重品 valuable items ホッとしたのと同時に the moment I was relieved 声を大にして言いたいです。I want to say it loudly or emphasise it.

Spring is just around the corner in Japan. What　reminds you of a　season? Enjoy this story in Japanese. {Special thanks} https://n-kishou.com/corp/news-contents/sakura/ This episode's vocab list: 桜開花予想 cherry blossom forecast 発表されました。It was announced 天気予報 weather forecast 開花 bloom 咲き始めるto start blooming 全国的に nationwide 平年並み similar to an average year 南北に長い島a long island stretching from south to north 3月中旬 middle of March 1か月以上も差があります。There is a difference of more than 1 month 満開full blossom たくさん散ってしまいます。A lot of them will fall unfortunately. 見頃 the best time to see 種類 type; species 種類の違いに目を向けるto pay attention to the differences among species

This is the story of my challenge for this year. I hope it can inspire you to try something you've been wanting to do but haven't or couldn't. Enjoy the story in Japanese. This episode's vocab list: 2か月が経ちました。 2 months have passed ようやく finally; at last; at length 余裕が出て来ました。I have started affording; Now I have some time to start doing that 定期的に at regular intervals 言い訳 excuse 気候 climate 合わない unsuitable おでかけ going out; outing 手始めに first; to begin with 制服 uniform 乞うご期待です！Please look forward to it; Anticipate with high hopes

What brings joy to your seasons and how do you savour them? Check out this episode to find out what adds warmth to my heart and makes each season special. This episode's vocab list: うるう年leap year ひな人形 dolls displayed at the Girls' Festival; Hina dolls 桃の節句 the Girls' Festival おさがり hand-me-down 思い出が詰まったもの something filled in with sweet memories 毎年飾る度に every time or whenever I decollate them every year 心に温かいものを感じます。I feel something warm in my heart 日本人の心 Japanese spirit; Japanese mind 姉妹 sisters 感謝しています。I appreciate that 伝統的なもの something traditional 風習 custom だんだん消えて行っています。It's been disappearing gradually. それでも even so; nevertheless 今残っているもの something that remains now 次の世代 the next generation 受け継がれる to be inherited; to be passed down

Take a look at the photo on this thumbnail!  Can you guess which part surprised me? This episode's vocab list: 電車の案内表示板 the electronic information board displaying the next train information on a platform 先々週 2 weeks ago 写真に納まっていました。It was captured in a photo 両側 both sides ２つあるはずです。 There should be two of them. 片側 one side of the two ２つずつ 2 each 前の方 forward area 後ろの方 backward area 使い分けている to use one in different ways; to use and distinguish between or among 問題が起きます。 A trouble occurs 電車の数が少ない駅 a station with infrequent train service 遠慮なく without hesitation 不安なこと something uncertain or worrisome; something causing anxiety 電車の移動 traveling by train

Do you find yourself getting enough sleep every day? Personally, I've been suffering with a lack of sleep. If you could help me, that would be wonderful! Tune in to this episode and share your suggestions. Your insights can make a world of difference! This episode's vocab list: 不眠症 insomnia 不眠症に悩んでいます。I'm suffering from insomnia 原因 cause いつも通り as usual 一杯だけ only one cap すぐ寝付ける able to fall asleep quickly 夜中に in the middle of the night 目を覚ましてしまいます。I happen to wake up 慢性的に chronically 寝不足の状態the condition of lack of sleep 続いています。It continues. 眠くなってしまうんです。I become sleepy although I don't want ストレスが溜まった時 when stress builds up

Please have a glance at the episode thumbnail and then give it a listen! You're in for an 'aha' moment during this episode. Don't miss out! Check it out now! This episode's vocab list: 電車の案内表示板 the electronic information board displaying the next train information on a platform 案内 information 声 voice 画像 picture; image 表示 display 三角印 a triangle mark 数字 a number 範囲 a range 恐らく probably わざわざ intentionally; deliberately 位置 a place; a position; a location 停車する to make a brief stop/pull over for a short time 乗車位置 boarding position 無視する to ignore; disregard; pay no attention to 疑問を抱く to doubt 知識 knowledge 繋がる to be linked to; lead to

Welcome back and thank you for your patience, Mates! I hope you had a wonderful Christmas and New Year holiday and a great start of this year. I had fun in Japan and came back to Cairns, Australia. Let's make 2024 another fulfilled year! In this episode, I talk a bit about my holiday in Japan. It's the beginning of my souvenir story from Japan. This episode's vocab list: 無事 safely 気持ちを新たに with a renewed spirit 再開します。I will resume 4週間以上5週間未満 more than 4 weeks & less than 5 weeks その間 during that period 私の準備不足でした  I wasn't prepared enough. 環境 environment 3分の１ one third 実家 my house where I grew up ペンキ塗り painting 修理 repairing 親孝行 Conduct by which children honour and serve their parents well 満足 satisfaction 残り the rest あちこち here, there, everywhere 予定外のこと something I didn't expect 地震 earthquake 元日 the new year's day 震源地 epicentre of an earthquake 横に side-way 揺れました。It shook. 揺れ a shake 途中 in the middle of the event 雪の影響 で新幹線のダイヤが1時間遅れました。The bullet train timetable was delayed by one hour due to snow. 体験する to experience 新幹線が遅れるほど雪が降っている it's snowing as heavy as the timetable is delayed. 想像できますか。Can you imagine? 切に思ったのは、what I was keenly aware of is … 一泊する to stay over night 空港に向かっている to be heading to the airport 日本の土産話 Souvenir stories from Japan

This is the last episode for this year. Check out what I am going to do during the holidays. Thank you for your listening again this year. The next episode will be released on the 1st of February. This episode's vocab list: いよいよ finally; here it comes 明後日(あさって) the day after tomorrow その間(かん) during that period お休(やす)み time off 浸水(しんすい)した家(うち) flooded houses 道路(どうろ)も冠水(かんすい)した。 the roads were also submerged; flooded; inundated ホッと一安心(ひとあんしん)です。Now, I can forget about this issue. 大切(たいせつ)な人(ひと)たち your loved ones お届(とど)けします。I will release it. お伝(つた)えしたいです。 I want to tell you

This episode was recorded on the 14th of December; however, it couldn't be uploaded due to PC troubles. My sincere apologies for this delayed release. I hope you enjoy this episode, where I share my experience with Cyclone ‘Jasper' causing a blackout at my place. This episode's vocab list: 通過(つうか) passing through; passage 直撃(ちょくげき) direct hit 停電(ていでん) blackout; power outage 前日(ぜんじつ) the previous day 何(なに)も考(かんが)えず without consideration; without thinking 洗濯機(せんたくき)を回(まわ)し始(はじ)めていました。I'd started running a washing machine 洗濯物(せんたくもの)が濡(ぬ)れたままでした。the laundry was still wet 被害(ひがい) damage 我が家 my home 私(わたし)の人生(じんせい) my life 最長(さいちょう)記録(きろく) the longest record 自然災害(しぜんさいがい) natural disaster 地域(ちいき) area 改(あらた)めてall over again 大切(たいせつ)さimportance ひとまず for the time being 無事(ぶじ)済(す)んだ。 it went off without any major issues. 報告(ほうこく) report