Podcasts about obon

Proponujemy spędzenie jesieni wśród czerwonych klonów Japonii. Podczas pierwszego spotkania przyjrzeliśmy się grobom na cmentarzu Yanaka i poznaliśmy święto Obon, będące odpowiednikiem naszych zaduszek.Poznaliśmy figurki Dogu, tabliczki ema, na których Japończycy wypisują swoje modlitwy do bóstw, wróżby dla odważnych omikuji i kota szczęścia Maneki-neko. Odwiedziliśmy najstarszą świątynię buddyjską w Tokio Senso-ji i najważniejszy shintoistyczny chram w tym mieście Meiji Jingu, a także pełną drapaczy chmur dzielnicę Shinjuku, słynne skrzyżowanie w dzielnicy Shibuya, młodzieżową dzielnicę Harajuku, centrum elektroniki i gier Akihabara i największy hurtowy targ rybny na świecie Tsukiji.Z Tokio wybraliśmy się też do położonej w pobliżu Kamakury, kolebki japońskiego buddyzmu, pełnej świątyń i sanktuariów.Gościem Jerzego Jopa była Danuta Rasała.

Fluent Fiction - Japanese: Mystery of the Missing Scroll: An Obon Festival Adventure Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.org/mystery-of-the-missing-scroll-an-obon-festival-adventure Story Transcript:Ja: 紅葉が広がる秋の高野山。En: Autumn at Mount Koya, where the maple leaves spread out in a beautiful display.Ja: 温かな灯篭の光と、ゆったりとした太鼓の音が、オボン祭りを祝う巡礼者たちの周りに響く。En: The warm glow of lanterns and the gentle sound of drums resonate around the pilgrims celebrating the Obon festival.Ja: 山の上に立つ寺院は、古くからの歴史と自然の調和を見せていた。En: The temples standing atop the mountain show the harmony between ancient history and nature.Ja: ユキは、歴史を研究する情熱家だ。En: Yuki is a passionate researcher of history.Ja: 彼女は、この地に古代の巻物があるという噂を聞きつけてやって来た。En: She came to this place upon hearing rumors of an ancient scroll said to contain new teachings of Buddhism.Ja: 彼女の興味は尽きない。En: Her curiosity knows no bounds.Ja: ハルトは、地元の僧侶だった。En: Haru was a local monk.Ja: 外部の人には慎重だが、寺院の貴重な artefactsを守ることに価値を置いている。En: While cautious with outsiders, he values preserving the temple's precious artifacts.Ja: 巻物の行方が、彼の心を騒がせた。En: The whereabouts of the scroll troubled his mind.Ja: 一方、ソラは家族と訪れていた好奇心旺盛な少年だった。En: Meanwhile, Sora, an inquisitive young boy visiting with his family, found himself entwined in the mystery.Ja: 彼もまた、この謎に巻き込まれた。En: He wanted to prove that he could be of help.Ja: ある夜、巻物が忽然と姿を消した。En: One night, the scroll suddenly disappeared.Ja: 大切な巻物がないとわかり、ユキはハルトとの対話を試みた。En: Realizing the crucial scroll was missing, Yuki attempted to engage in dialogue with Haru.Ja: しかし、彼の警戒心は容易には解けなかった。En: However, his wariness was not easily dispelled.Ja: そこで、ユキはソラの助けを借りることに決めた。ソラの観察力と寺院の敷地に詳しいことを知っていたからだ。En: So, Yuki decided to enlist Sora's help, knowing his keen observation and familiarity with the temple grounds.Ja: 二人は祭りを邪魔しないように、慎重に調査を始めた。En: The two began their investigation carefully, ensuring not to disturb the festival.Ja: 手がかりを追う中で、彼らは寺院の一角で秘密のコンパートメントを見つけた。En: While following the clues, they discovered a hidden compartment in a corner of the temple.Ja: そこには、すっかり忘れ去られた巻物があった。En: There lay the long-forgotten scroll.Ja: 犯人だと思われたのは、高齢の僧侶が数十年前にとった未然の安全策だった。En: The person suspected to have taken it was actually an elderly monk who had enacted a preventive safety measure decades ago.Ja: 巻物が無事に戻ったことで、ユキはハルトの信頼を得た。En: With the scroll safely returned, Yuki gained Haru's trust.Ja: 彼女は寺院の歴史を記録する手助けを申し出た。En: She offered to assist in documenting the temple's history.Ja: 一方、ソラは自分の貢献に誇りを感じていた。En: Meanwhile, Sora felt proud of his contribution.Ja: 巻物も元に戻り、オボン祭りは平和に続いた。En: With the scroll restored, the Obon festival continued peacefully.Ja: ユキは協力の大切さを学び、また文化の理解の重要性を認識した。En: Yuki learned the importance of collaboration and recognized the value of cultural understanding.Ja: ハルトも外部からの支援を受け入れ、新たな洞察を持つようになった。En: Haru began to accept support from outsiders, gaining new insights.Ja: ソラは自信と成熟を得て、彼の役割を果たした。En: Sora gained confidence and maturity through fulfilling his role.Ja: 高野山の紅葉の間で、物語は静かに幕を閉じた。En: Amidst the maple leaves of Mount Koya, the story quietly came to an end.Ja: しかし、彼らの心には新たな絆が結ばれていた。En: However, a new bond was formed in their hearts. Vocabulary Words:autumn: 秋maple: 紅葉lanterns: 灯篭glow: 光pilgrims: 巡礼者たちharmony: 調和passionate: 情熱家rumors: 噂scroll: 巻物teachings: 教えcuriosity: 興味outsiders: 外部の人preserving: 守ることartifacts: artefactswhereabouts: 行方inquisitive: 好奇心旺盛なentwined: 巻き込まれたdisappeared: 消えたengage: 対話を試みたwariness: 警戒心dispelled: 解けなかったenlist: 助けを借りるkeen: 観察力investigation: 調査ensuring: 邪魔しないようにcompartment: コンパートメントsuspected: 犯人だと思われたpreventive: 未然のbond: 絆

Fluent Fiction - Japanese: The Midnight Bell: Unveiling Kyoto's Mystical Temple Secrets Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.org/the-midnight-bell-unveiling-kyotos-mystical-temple-secrets Story Transcript:Ja: 山々に囲まれた京都の隠れた寺。En: A hidden temple surrounded by the mountains of Kyoto.Ja: そこは夏の夜、雲海の中にぽっかりと浮かぶ場所でした。En: In summer nights, it would float serenely in a sea of clouds.Ja: 夏の祭り、盆がやってくると、伝統的な灯籠が道を照らし、寺の静寂を神秘的に盛り上げます。En: When the summer festival, Obon, arrived, traditional lanterns lit the path and added a mystical ambiance to the temple's tranquility.Ja: 好奇心旺盛な若い女性、ユキはこの寺に特別な関心を持っていました。En: A curious young woman named Yuki had a special interest in this temple.Ja: 彼女は地元の伝説と物語に強く引かれていますが、心のどこかで超自然的なものを恐れていました。En: She was deeply drawn to local legends and stories, yet somewhere in her heart, she feared the supernatural.Ja: ある晩、理由もなく真夜中に鳴り響く寺の古い鐘の話を耳にしました。En: One night, she heard tales of the temple's old bell that would mysteriously ring at midnight for no apparent reason.Ja: その鐘の音が霊と関係しているのではないかという噂です。En: It was rumored that the sound of the bell was connected to spirits.Ja: 彼女の友人、ハルトはこの伝説を単なる民間伝承と考えていました。En: Her friend, Haruto, considered these legends nothing more than folklore.Ja: 「昔話なんて信じないよ」と、彼は笑い飛ばします。En: "I don't believe in old wives' tales," he laughed dismissively.Ja: しかし、ユキは納得しませんでした。En: However, Yuki was not convinced.Ja: 「真実を確かめたい」。En: "I want to find out the truth."Ja: 二人は寺へ深夜の探検に向かいました。En: The two set off for a midnight adventure to the temple.Ja: 霧が立ち込め、影のような木々が周りを取り囲む中、ユキとハルトはその静けさの中に張り詰めた期待を感じました。En: With mist swirling and shadowy trees surrounding them, Yuki and Haruto felt an intense anticipation in the stillness.Ja: 彼らは寺の中庭に小さなキャンプを設置し、夜が更けるのを待つことにしました。En: They set up a small camp in the temple's courtyard and decided to wait for the night to deepen.Ja: 真夜中、待ちに待った鐘の音が響きました。En: At midnight, the long-awaited sound of the bell echoed.Ja: ユキの心臓は高鳴ります。En: Yuki's heart pounded.Ja: しかし、そこには誰もいないはずです。En: Yet, there was supposedly no one there.Ja: それでも二人は確かに眼の前で鐘が動くのを見ました。En: Still, they unmistakably saw the bell move right in front of their eyes.Ja: すると突然、古い僧侶の姿が現れました。その僧侶は鐘を静かに鳴らしています。En: Suddenly, an old monk appeared, quietly ringing the bell.Ja: ユキとハルトは恐怖と驚きを感じながらも、後退することなくその場で立ち尽くしました。En: Despite feeling fear and surprise, Yuki and Haruto stood their ground without retreating.Ja: ユキは勇気を絞り、「あなたは誰ですか？」と問いかけました。En: Gathering her courage, Yuki asked, "Who are you?"Ja: 僧侶は微笑み、静かに語り出しました。「盆の時、我々は生者と通じるためにここにいます」と。En: The monk smiled and began to speak softly, "During Obon, we are here to connect with the living."Ja: その瞬間、ユキはこの寺の霊的な意義を理解しました。En: In that moment, Yuki understood the spiritual significance of the temple.Ja: 彼女が追い求めていたのは単なる伝説ではなく、命の流れと繋がる重要なメッセージでした。En: What she had been pursuing was not just a legend but an important message intertwined with the flow of life.Ja: 彼女の心の中で、超自然に対する恐れが尊敬へと変わっていくのを感じました。En: Within her heart, her fear of the supernatural transformed into respect.Ja: 帰り道、ユキは満たされた気持ちを抱き、もう一度振り返って寺を見上げました。En: On the way back, Yuki, filled with a sense of fulfillment, looked back at the temple once more.Ja: 霧に包まれた寺は、彼女に微かに微笑んでいるようでした。En: Wrapped in mist, it seemed to gently smile at her.Ja: ユキはこれからも伝説を追い続ける決意をし、その中で見つける新たな世界への期待感で満たされていました。En: Yuki resolved to continue pursuing legends and felt a sense of anticipation for the new worlds she would discover within them. Vocabulary Words:serenely: 穏やかにmystical: 神秘的なambiance: 雰囲気legends: 伝説supernatural: 超自然的なfolklore: 民間伝承anticipation: 期待echoed: 響くpounded: 高鳴るmysteriously: 不思議にretreating: 後退するcourage: 勇気tranquility: 静寂fulfillment: 満たされた気持ちlegends: 伝説pursuing: 追い求めるrumored: 噂されるflow: 流れintriguing: 興味をそそるsymbolize: 象徴するcourtyard: 中庭bell: 鐘swirling: 立ち込めるshadows: 影intense: 強烈なmonk: 僧侶spiritual: 霊的なsignificance: 重要性intertwined: 織り交ぜるrealization: 気付き

Fluent Fiction - Japanese: Overcoming Challenges and Winning Contracts in Tokyo Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.org/overcoming-challenges-and-winning-contracts-in-tokyo Story Transcript:Ja: 東京の夏、暑さが街を包む中、Hiroshiは会社のオフィスに向かって急いでいました。En: In the summer of Tokyo, with the heat enveloping the city, Hiroshi was hurrying towards his company's office.Ja: 彼は若手のエグゼクティブで、重要なプレゼンテーションを控え、緊張で胸がいっぱいでした。En: He was a young executive with an important presentation ahead, his heart full of tension.Ja: オフィスは近代的なビルの中にあり、大きな窓からは東京の活気あふれる街並みが見えました。En: The office was located in a modern building, from whose large windows the bustling cityscape of Tokyo could be seen.Ja: 大事なクライアントが訪れる日、Hiroshiは家族の成功を追い求め、どうしてもこの契約をものにしたいと考えていました。En: On the day an important client was visiting, Hiroshi, driven by the desire for his family's success, was determined to secure this contract at all costs.Ja: しかし、彼には言語の壁という悩みがありました。En: However, he was troubled by a language barrier.Ja: 国際的なクライアントに対して英語でのプレゼンをするのは、彼にとって大きな課題でした。En: Delivering a presentation in English to international clients was a significant challenge for him.Ja: オフィスに着くと、Hiroshiは同僚のAikoに助けを求めました。En: Upon reaching the office, Hiroshi sought help from his colleague Aiko.Ja: Aikoは英語が得意で、コミュニケーションをサポートするために協力してくれると言ってくれました。En: Aiko was proficient in English and offered to assist with communication support.Ja: Hiroshiは自分の弱さを見せることにためらいがありましたが、彼女の助けが必要でした。En: Although Hiroshi hesitated to show his weakness, he needed her help.Ja: プレゼンの準備が進む中、オフィスはObon休み前の忙しさに包まれていました。En: As they prepared for the presentation, the office was wrapped in the busyness of the pre-Obon holiday period.Ja: 人々は休暇の予定を組んでおり、時間も限られていました。En: People were planning their vacations, and time was limited.Ja: Hiroshiは休みを犠牲にしてでも、この仕事を成功させようと決意しました。En: Hiroshi resolved to sacrifice his holiday if necessary to succeed in this task.Ja: いよいよプレゼン当日が来ました。En: Finally, the day of the presentation arrived.Ja: HiroshiとAikoは一緒に会議室でクライアントを迎えました。En: Hiroshi and Aiko welcomed the clients together in the meeting room.Ja: ヒロシが資料を見せながら話をする間、英語の質問がクライアントから飛び出しました。En: As Hiroshi spoke while showing the materials, an English question was suddenly posed by the clients.Ja: Hiroshiは一瞬戸惑いましたが、Aikoがすぐにフォローし、二人で質問に応えました。En: Hiroshi hesitated for a moment, but Aiko quickly followed up, and together they responded to the question.Ja: Hiroshiは落ち着きを取り戻し、しっかりと説明を続けました。En: Regaining his composure, Hiroshi continued with a steady explanation.Ja: クライマックスでのAikoの助けは大きな安心感を彼に与えました。En: Aiko's support at the crucial moment offered him great reassurance.Ja: プレゼンテーションが終わると、クライアントは満足し、契約にサインしました。En: Once the presentation concluded, the clients were satisfied and signed the contract.Ja: Aikoに感謝の言葉を伝えながら、Hiroshiは仲間の力の重要性を学びました。En: Expressing his gratitude to Aiko, Hiroshi learned the importance of teamwork.Ja: 彼はひとりで頑張ることだけが大事ではないと理解し、共に働くことで大きな成功を収めることができることを痛感しました。En: He realized that striving alone was not everything, and he deeply understood that by working together, they could achieve great success.Ja: 仕事の帰り道、Hiroshiは心の中で家族に誇りを持てたことを報告しました。En: On his way home from work, Hiroshi, in his heart, reported to his family that he could be proud.Ja: オフィスの外はまだ暑さが続いていましたが、彼の心は満たされていました。En: Outside the office, the heat persisted, but he felt fulfilled.Ja: 彼は今、自分が成長したことを感じていました。これからもチームワークを大切にし、新たな挑戦に立ち向かおうと決意するのでした。En: He now sensed his own growth and resolved to continue valuing teamwork and face new challenges ahead. Vocabulary Words:enveloping: 包むexecutive: エグゼクティブbustling: 活気あふれるcityscape: 街並みcontract: 契約barrier: 壁proficient: 得意hesitated: ためらいbusyness: 忙しさpre-Obon: Obon休み前sacrifice: 犠牲にするposed: 飛び出しましたcomposure: 落ち着きreassurance: 安心感gratitude: 感謝の言葉teamwork: チームワークstriving: 頑張るachieve: 収めるfulfilled: 満たされてpersistence: 続いていましたresolved: 決意するdetermined: 決意しましたcrucial: クライマックスsignificant: 大きなvacations: 休暇colleague: 同僚communicating: コミュニケーションchallenge: 課題prepared: 準備が進むimportant: 大事な

Fluent Fiction - Japanese: Mystical Lights of Arashiyama: A Night of Discovery Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.org/mystical-lights-of-arashiyama-a-night-of-discovery Story Transcript:Ja: 夏の夜、嵐山の竹林は静かで神秘的でした。En: On a summer night, the bamboo grove in Arashiyama was quiet and mysterious.Ja: 竹の間から月の光が差し込み、影が踊るように揺れています。En: Moonlight filtered through the bamboo, casting shadows that swayed as if dancing.Ja: 周囲の寺院から漂う線香の香りが、空気を満たしていました。En: The scent of incense drifted in the air from the surrounding temples.Ja: ちょうどお盆の時期、人々はご先祖様を迎える準備で忙しい中、不思議な光が毎年現れるという噂が広がっていました。En: It was the Obon season, and people were busy preparing to welcome their ancestors, while rumors spread of a mysterious light that appeared every year.Ja: 大学生のヒロシは、この光の正体を探ることに夢中でした。En: Hiroshi, a college student, was fascinated by the mystery of this light.Ja: 彼は民話に興味があり、科学的な説明を見つけようとしていました。En: He had an interest in folklore and was eager to find a scientific explanation.Ja: しかし、幼馴染のアキコはその話に懐疑的でした。En: However, his childhood friend Akiko was skeptical of the story.Ja: 「あれはただの噂だよ、ヒロシ。信じるのは馬鹿らしい」と言います。En: "It's just a rumor, Hiroshi. It's ridiculous to believe it," she said.Ja: 一方、地元のツアーガイドのユミは、昔から語り継がれるこの地の霊的な話を密かに信じていました。En: Meanwhile, Yumi, a local tour guide, secretly believed in the spiritual stories handed down through generations in the area.Ja: ヒロシは結局、竹林に歩を進めることにしました。En: Ultimately, Hiroshi decided to venture into the bamboo grove.Ja: 「君たち、僕と一緒に来ない？」と二人に声をかけます。En: "Won't you two come with me?” he asked them.Ja: ユミは一瞬迷いましたが、「実は私も行ってみたい。ガイドとして、ちゃんと説明できることを確認したいの」と決心します。En: Yumi hesitated for a moment but then made up her mind, saying, "Actually, I'd like to go, too. As a guide, I want to confirm that I can explain it properly."Ja: アキコも、「一人で行かせるわけにはいかない」という言葉を添えて同行を決めました。En: Akiko also decided to join them, adding, "I can't let you go alone."Ja: 三人は暗い竹林を進んでいきました。En: The three of them advanced through the dark bamboo grove.Ja: ヒロシは興奮しながら、「必ず何かわかるはずだ」と自信を持っていました。En: Hiroshi, filled with excitement, confidently stated, "We're bound to discover something."Ja: やがて、不思議な光が現れました。En: Eventually, the mysterious light appeared.Ja: それはふわりと揺れ、彼らの方へと近づいてきたのです。En: It floated and swayed, moving closer to them.Ja: 「何だろう…？」とアキコは少し恐れながらも好奇心でいっぱいになりました。En: "What could it be...?" Akiko said, filled with curiosity despite a hint of fear.Ja: ヒロシは心臓を高鳴らせつつも慎重に観察し、あっと驚きました。「これは珍しい蛍の一種だ！」と叫びます。En: Hiroshi, with his heart pounding, observed carefully and exclaimed in surprise, "It's a rare type of firefly!"Ja: その光る虫たちは、毎年お盆の時期にしか現れない特別な種類だったのです。En: The glowing insects were a special species that only appeared during the Obon season each year.Ja: ヒロシはその発見に満足し、アキコは自然の不思議を少し信じるようになりました。En: Satisfied with his discovery, Hiroshi had found an explanation, and Akiko began to believe a bit in the wonders of nature.Ja: ユミは人々を驚かせることなく、静かに自分の信仰を続けることができました。En: Yumi could quietly continue her beliefs without surprising others.Ja: 竹林の冒険を終え、人々はそれぞれ変わって帰りました。En: After their adventure in the bamboo grove, the three returned home, each changed in some way.Ja: ヒロシは好奇心と科学のバランスを学び、アキコには伝統やミステリーの価値が伝わりました。ユミは自分の役割により自信を持ち、また新しい伝説を生み出しました。En: Hiroshi learned the balance between curiosity and science, Akiko appreciated the value of tradition and mystery, and Yumi gained more confidence in her role and created a new legend.Ja: 風が竹を揺らし、彼らの影を月の光の下に映しながら、夜がまた静かに包み込みました。En: The wind rustled the bamboo, casting their shadows under the moonlight, as the night once again gently enveloped them. Vocabulary Words:grove: 竹林mysterious: 神秘的incense: 線香ancestors: ご先祖様rumors: 噂ridiculous: 馬鹿らしいskeptical: 懐疑的venture: 歩を進めるhesitated: 迷いましたconfirm: 確認したいadvancing: 進んでいきましたexcitement: 興奮curiosity: 好奇心observed: 観察しrare: 珍しいspecies: 種satisfied: 満足しdiscovery: 発見appreciated: 価値が伝わりましたtradition: 伝統confidence: 自信role: 役割rustled: 揺らしshadows: 影enveloped: 包み込みましたscientific explanation: 科学的な説明folklore: 民話spiritual: 霊的なbalancing: バランス

Fluent Fiction - Japanese: Courage Under Canvas: A Village United After the Quake Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.org/courage-under-canvas-a-village-united-after-the-quake Story Transcript:Ja: 夏の暑い日、地震の後、この小さな村に臨時の野外病院が設営されました。En: On a hot summer day, after the earthquake, a temporary outdoor hospital was set up in this small village.Ja: 広がる緑の野原の中に、白い天幕が並んでいました。En: White tents were lined up amidst the expansive green fields.Ja: ヒロシはそこで医療をしていました。En: Hiroshi was providing medical care there.Ja: 患者の世話をしながらも、ヒロシはいつも供給不足を感じていました。En: While taking care of the patients, Hiroshi constantly felt a shortage of supplies.Ja: ユキは物流調整係でした。En: Yuki was the logistics coordinator.Ja: 彼女はこの病院に必要な物資を手配していました。En: She was arranging the necessary supplies for this hospital.Ja: しかし、物資は少なく、手に入れるのが難しかったのです。En: However, the supplies were scarce and difficult to obtain.Ja: しかも、もうすぐお盆が来ます。ユキは家族と過ごしたいと思っています。En: Moreover, the Obon festival was approaching, and Yuki wanted to spend it with her family.Ja: その頃、ヒロシは苦悩していました。En: During this time, Hiroshi was troubled.Ja: 「どうすれば、患者たちをもっと効率的に治療できるのだろう？」彼は悩んでいました。En: "How can I treat the patients more efficiently?" he pondered.Ja: ユキもまた、上司から資源をもっと有効に使えというプレッシャーを感じていました。En: Yuki also felt the pressure from her superiors to use the resources more effectively.Ja: ある日、ヒロシとユキは重大な決断に迫られました。En: One day, Hiroshi and Yuki faced a critical decision.Ja: 「今、すべての患者を治療できないかもしれない。En: "We might not be able to treat all the patients right now.Ja: でも、供給が届くのが遅ければ、もっと多くの命が失われるかもしれない。」En: But if the supplies arrive late, even more lives might be lost."Ja: やがて、ユキはあるアイデアを思いつきました。En: Eventually, Yuki came up with an idea.Ja: 「近くの町の倉庫から緊急配達を手配できるかもしれない。」En: "Maybe we can arrange for an emergency delivery from the nearby town's warehouse."Ja: しかし、それはお盆を諦め、ここに残ることを意味しました。En: However, this meant giving up on Obon and staying there.Ja: それでもユキはその道を選びました。En: Even so, Yuki chose that path.Ja: そして、彼女の努力は実を結びました。En: Her efforts bore fruit.Ja: ついに新しい供給が届き、ヒロシはその物資で、重症患者を効率的に治療することができました。En: Finally, new supplies arrived, and Hiroshi was able to treat the critically ill patients efficiently with them.Ja: 村の人々は、感謝の気持ちを表しました。En: The villagers expressed their gratitude.Ja: 彼らはユキにとって、驚きの贈り物を用意していました。En: They had a surprising gift prepared for Yuki.Ja: ユキが最後の祭りに間に合うように、彼女を家族のもとへ連れて行く手筈を整えていたのです。En: Arrangements were made to take her to her family in time for the final festival day.Ja: ヒロシは仲間たちと力を合わせることの大切さを学び、再び強い目的意識を感じました。En: Hiroshi learned the importance of working together with his colleagues and felt a renewed sense of purpose.Ja: ユキもまた、自分一人で抱え込むよりも、人を頼ることの大切さを知りました。En: Yuki also realized the importance of relying on others rather than shouldering everything alone.Ja: そして、彼女の心には、決断の成果と彼女のコミュニティへの感謝の気持ちが残りました。En: Her heart was filled with the fruits of her decision and gratitude toward her community.Ja: お盆の夜、ユキは家族と一緒にお祭りを楽しむことができました。En: On the night of Obon, Yuki was able to enjoy the festival with her family.Ja: その瞬間、彼女の心には、勇気ある選択と友情が響いていました。En: At that moment, her heart resonated with her courageous choice and the friendships she had forged.Ja: ヒロシとユキ、そして村の人々との絆が、生き生きと感じられる夏の物語が、こうして幕を閉じたのです。En: The story of summer, filled with the bonds between Hiroshi, Yuki, and the villagers, came to a vibrant close. Vocabulary Words:earthquake: 地震temporary: 臨時expansive: 広がるshortage: 不足logistics: 物流coordinator: 調整係scarce: 少ないapproaching: もうすぐtroubled: 苦悩していましたpondered: 悩んでいましたpressure: プレッシャーcritical: 重大なdecision: 決断efficiently: 効率的にemergency: 緊急delivery: 配達warehouse: 倉庫means: 意味efforts: 努力bore fruit: 実を結びましたgratitude: 感謝prepared: 用意していましたarrangements: 手筈reliance: 頼ることshouldering: 抱え込むvibrant: 生き生きとresonated: 響いていましたforged: 感じられるbonds: 絆purpose: 目的意識

An agency of Japan's government recently gave its first-ever "megaquake advisory," or warning message. 日本政府的一个机构最近首次发布了“超大型地震警告”或警告信息。The Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) issued the warning after a powerful quake struck on August 8 off the southeastern coast of Japan's main island of Kyushu. 在日本气象厅发布这一警告之前，8月8日日本九州主岛东南海岸发生了一次强烈地震。The magnitude 7.1 quake caused no deaths or severe damage, but the advisory has led to questions and a sense of worry. Japan is among the countries most hit by earthquakes. Now many citizens are wondering about when the next big quake will hit. 这次7.1级地震没有造成人员死亡或重大损失，但这一警告引发了疑问和担忧。日本是世界上地震灾害最频繁的国家之一，许多市民开始担心下一次大地震何时会发生。The Associated Press recently explained what the advisory means, what people are being told to do: 美联社最近解释了这一警告的含义以及人们应该采取的措施：JMA issued the advisory after deciding that the August 8 quake increased the likelihood of another major quake. 日本气象厅在确定8月8日的地震增加了另一次大地震的可能性后发布了这一警告。The agency said there is a 70 to 80 percent chance of a magnitude 8 or 9 quake associated with an area called the Nankai Trough within the next 30 years. The JMA said the probability of such an event is now "higher than normal." 该机构表示，未来30年内，在一个名为南海海槽的区域发生8级或9级地震的概率为70%至80%。日本气象厅表示，这种事件发生的概率现在“高于正常水平”。Naoshi Hirata is a seismologist at the University of Tokyo and head of the JMA's group of experts. He said that the warning was not a prediction that a megaquake will happen at any specific time or place. He urged people to remain careful and prepared. 平田直是东京大学的地震学家，也是日本气象厅专家组的负责人。他表示，这一警告并不是在预测某个特定时间或地点将发生超大型地震。他呼吁人们保持警惕和做好准备。The Nankai Trough is an undersea trench, or a deep valley on the ocean floor, that runs from the waters just off the southeastern coast of Kyushu, to Suruga Bay in central Japan. It is about 800 kilometers long. 南海海槽是一条海底沟槽，或是海床上的深谷，延伸从九州东南海岸附近的水域到日本中部的骏河湾。它长约800公里。Two large areas of the Earth's surface, the Philippine Sea Plate and the Eurasian Plate meet there. The Philippine plate slowly pulls down on the Eurasian plate and causes it to release energy from time to time. The JMA said that could lead to a megaquake and tsunami. 地球表面的两个大区域，菲律宾海板块和欧亚板块在此交汇。菲律宾海板块慢慢拉动欧亚板块，导致其不时释放能量。日本气象厅表示，这可能导致超大型地震和海啸。The last Nankai Trough quake was off Shikoku in 1946. The U.S. Geological Survey estimated its magnitude to be 8.3, and more than 1,400 people died. 上一次南海海槽地震发生在1946年四国附近。美国地质调查局估计其震级为8.3级，超过1400人丧生。As a result of the "megaquake advisory," Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida canceled a trip and announced he would lead the government response. Local governments are studying their emergency plans. 由于“超大型地震警告”的发布，日本首相岸田文雄取消了一次出行，并宣布将领导政府应对措施。地方政府正在研究他们的应急计划。Experts and officials have urged people to stay calm and to continue normal life but to prepare for a possible evacuation. 专家和官员们敦促人们保持冷静，继续正常生活，但也要为可能的疏散做好准备。JMA experts said on August 12 they have so far found no abnormal activity that would suggest a megaquake. 日本气象厅的专家们在8月12日表示，迄今为止，他们尚未发现任何表明超大型地震即将发生的异常活动。The "megaquake advisory” is filled with scientific terms. It has worried people across the country. Some towns closed beaches and canceled yearly events. This has led to problems for travelers during Japan's Obon holiday week, a time for festivals and fireworks across the nation. “超大型地震警告”充满了科学术语，这让全国各地的人们感到担忧。一些城镇关闭了海滩并取消了年度活动。这给日本盂兰盆节假期期间的旅行者带来了困扰，盂兰盆节是全国各地庆祝节日和烟火的时刻。Some stores are running out of emergency supplies, even in areas where there is little risk. In the vacation town of Matsuyama city on the island of Shikoku, hotels and resorts studied their evacuation plans and emergency equipment. In another seaside town, Shirahama, outdoor hot springs were closed for a week and a fireworks festival was cancelled. 一些商店的应急物资已经售罄，即使是在风险较小的地区。在四国岛上的度假城镇松山市，酒店和度假村研究了他们的疏散计划和应急设备。在另一个海滨小镇白滨，户外温泉关闭了一周，烟花节也被取消。

Listen to this episode ad free + exclusive episodes and bonus material at https://www.patreon.com/voicesinjapanMatt and Ben talk about Japans success at the Olympics, Pizza Hut's new pizza only in one region of Japan, and things to do during the Obon Holiday (remembering deceased ancestors). Sponsors:MaruMoriThis site has everything you need to learn Japanese! It's an all-in-one, guided, gamified Japanese learning experience with the aim to take you all the way from absolute beginner to language mastery, and the best part is you can start anywhere! https://marumori.io/register?rcode=vijBearfoot BarLocated in downtown Sapporo, walking distance from the subway station. There are a variety of Japanese made local and craft beers, bottled and on tap. 21 different sorts of international beers. A wide range of regular and unique spirits and basic cocktails also available. Burgers and pub style snacks. With friendly English and Japanese speaking staff.  https://www.facebook.com/bearfootbarHokkaido GuideEstablished over 10 years ago, written by locals for locals and international tourists. The guide contains information on all types of businesses and locations around Hokkaido. There's information regarding all things Hokkaido such as sightseeing, nightlife, events, services, food and restaurants, entertainment, outdoor activities, and more. Currently offered in English and Thai, advertising space available. Check out website for everything you need to know about this beautiful prefecture. https://hokkaidoguide.com Use our Buzzsprout affiliate link to start your podcast today!  Website:https://www.voicesinjapan.com/ Follow us and check out our other content:https://youtube.com/@voicesinjapanpodcasthttps://twitter.com/voicesinjapanhttps://www.facebook.com/voicesinjapan/https://www.instagram.com/voicesinjapan/Get in touch: voicesinjapan@gmail.comSupport the Show.

KC, Damon and Ryan chat about Obon, the prefecture of the week- Kanagawa, give Joe some absentee abuse, discuss Matt Kuchar doing the most random move in professional golf, and In keeping with the prefecture of the week theme- bring in Kanagawa Country Club President Taka to chat about bringing a young vibe to Japanese golf, the background of his family's course and we also learn a lot about Japanese wagyu from his other entrepreneurial endeavors.Titleist Fitting in Japan sponsors this podcast:https://golf-in-japan.com/titleist-fitting-experienceKanagawa Country Clubhttps://golf-in-japan.com/courses/kanagawa/kanagawa-cc

Fluent Fiction - Japanese: Summer Secrets: Solving Hakone's Hidden Mysteries Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.org/summer-secrets-solving-hakones-hidden-mysteries Story Transcript:Ja: 夏の日差しが緑の木々の間を跳ね返り、箱根の温泉旅館を包みました。En: The summer sunlight bounced between the green trees, enveloping the hot spring inn in Hakone.Ja: ハルト、ユキ、そしてミキは、そこに集まっていました。En: Haruto, Yuki, and Miki had gathered there.Ja: オボン休暇を楽しむ予定です。En: They planned to enjoy their Obon holiday.Ja: ハルトは大学生で、未解決事件に興味があります。En: Haruto was a university student interested in unsolved mysteries.Ja: ユキは冒険好きで、いつも刺激を求めます。En: Yuki was adventurous and always sought excitement.Ja: ミキはハルトの妹で、海外から帰国しました。兄との絆を深めたいと思っています。En: Miki, Haruto's sister, had just returned from abroad and wanted to strengthen her bond with her brother.Ja: 到着した翌朝、ハルトたちは旅館の隅で古びた手紙を見つけました。En: The morning after their arrival, Haruto and the others found an old letter in a corner of the inn.Ja: 手紙には、謎めいた手がかりが書かれていました。「探せ、庭の切り株に隠された秘密を」とあります。En: The letter contained mysterious clues: "Search for the secret hidden in the garden stump," it read.Ja: しかし、手紙の一部が破れています。En: However, part of the letter was torn.Ja: ハルトは手紙を見つめ、考えます。「これはいたずらかもしれない。でも、もしかしたら、ユキを驚かせられるかもしれない。」En: Haruto stared at the letter, thinking, "This might be a prank. But maybe I can surprise Yuki."Ja: 彼はユキとミキにこの計画を話します。「この手紙の謎を解こう。皆で一緒に。」En: He shared the plan with Yuki and Miki. "Let's solve the mystery of this letter. Together."Ja: 最初の手がかりは庭の切り株でした。そこには小さな箱が埋まっています。En: The first clue led them to a garden stump, where they unearthed a small box.Ja: 中にはさらに別の手紙が入っていました。「次は、温泉の近くの竹林に向かえ」とあります。En: Inside was another letter, instructing them, "Next, head to the bamboo grove near the hot spring."Ja: ユキは笑顔で「面白いぞ！行こう、行こう」と叫びます。En: Yuki exclaimed with a smile, "This is exciting! Let's go, let's go!"Ja: 竹林に着くと、何もありません。En: When they reached the bamboo grove, there was nothing there.Ja: ハルトは一瞬、自信を失います。En: Haruto momentarily lost confidence.Ja: でも、ミキが声をかけます。「兄さん、大丈夫だよ。続けよう。」En: But Miki offered words of encouragement. "It's okay, big brother. Let's keep going."Ja: 意を決してハルトは手紙をもう一度見ます。そして、新しい発見をします。En: Determined, Haruto examined the letter again and made a new discovery.Ja: 手紙の隠れた部分に「右の巨石の裏を見よ」と書かれていました。En: The previously hidden part of the letter read, "Look behind the large rock to the right."Ja: ハルトたちは巨石の裏でまた小箱を見つけました。En: Behind the rock, they found another small box.Ja: ついに最後の手紙です。En: Finally, they came to the last letter.Ja: 「最古の道具が眠る部屋を探せ」とありました。En: "Search for the room where the oldest tools rest," it said.Ja: 旅館の古い地図を確認し、三人は古い地下室に向かいます。En: Checking the inn's old map, the three headed to an old basement.Ja: 古びた扉を開けると、そこには古い家宝が置かれていました。ハルトとミキの祖先に関わるものでした。En: When they opened the aged door, they found old family heirlooms related to Haruto and Miki's ancestors.Ja: その時、ハルトは胸の中で何かが解けるのを感じました。En: At that moment, Haruto felt something in his chest unravel.Ja: 「やった」と彼は静かに言いました。En: "We did it," he quietly said.Ja: ユキは「すごいじゃないか、ハルト！」と喜びます。En: Yuki cheered, "That's amazing, Haruto!"Ja: ミキも笑顔で兄に駆け寄ります。En: Miki ran up to her brother with a smile.Ja: この体験を通して、ハルトは自信を取り戻しました。そして、ユキやミキとの絆がもっと深くなったと感じました。En: Through this experience, Haruto regained his confidence and felt that his bond with Yuki and Miki had grown deeper.Ja: 謎解きがもたらした思い出は、三人にとって大切な宝物になりました。En: The memories of solving the mystery became a precious treasure for the three of them.Ja: 帰り道、ハルトは空を見上げ、優しい夏の風を感じました。En: On the way home, Haruto looked up at the sky, feeling the gentle summer breeze.Ja: 「信じることと、仲間と協力することの大切さを知った」と彼は心の中でつぶやきました。En: "I've learned the importance of believing and cooperating with friends," he whispered to himself.Ja: 箱根の自然に囲まれた温泉旅館は、彼らの冒険の舞台であり、再び訪れたいと思う場所となりました。En: The hot spring inn, surrounded by Hakone's nature, became the stage for their adventure, a place they longed to visit again. Vocabulary Words:sunlight: 日差しbounced: 跳ね返りenveloping: 包みましたgathered: 集まってuniversity: 大学生unsolved: 未解決adventurous: 冒険好きbond: 絆stared: 見つめprank: いたずらexclaimed: 叫びますdetermined: 意を決してheirlooms: 家宝ancestors: 祖先unravel: 解けるmemories: 思い出precious: 大切treasure: 宝物basement: 地下室momentarily: 一瞬confidence: 自信encouragement: 声をかけcooperating: 協力gentle: 優しいstage: 舞台adventure: 冒険sought: 求めexcavated: 埋まってdiscover: 発見mystery: 謎

Fluent Fiction - Japanese: Rain-Soaked Beginnings: Art and Friendship in Shinjuku Gyoen Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.org/rain-soaked-beginnings-art-and-friendship-in-shinjuku-gyoen Story Transcript:Ja: 新宿御苑の夏の日、空は青く、草木は緑濃く、静かな美しさを放っていました。En: On a summer day in Shinjuku Gyoen, the sky was blue, the greenery was lush, and everything radiated a quiet beauty.Ja: 園内では、色とりどりの花が咲き誇り、人々は季節の美を楽しんでいました。En: Inside the garden, colorful flowers bloomed in abundance, and people enjoyed the beauty of the season.Ja: そこに、静かにスケッチをしている一人の女性、はるかがいました。En: There, a woman named Haruka sat quietly sketching.Ja: 彼女は内向的な芸術家で、祖先を敬うお盆の時期に平和とつながりを求めていました。En: An introverted artist, she sought peace and connection during the Obon period, a time to honor her ancestors.Ja: その傍らを通りかかるのは、だいちという青年でした。En: Passing by was a young man named Daichi.Ja: 彼は活気あふれる写真家で、この庭園で夏の伝統を写真に収めようとしていました。En: He was a lively photographer aiming to capture the summer traditions in this garden through his lens.Ja: 彼のカメラは、自然の美しさや人々の感情を捉えようと忙しく働いていました。En: His camera busily tried to capture the beauty of nature and the emotions of people.Ja: しかし、急に空が曇り始め、大粒の雨が降り出しました。En: Suddenly, the sky began to cloud over, and large drops of rain started to fall.Ja: 「大変だ、雨が降ってきた」とだいちは思いました。En: "Oh no, it's starting to rain," thought Daichi.Ja: そして、近くの東屋に急ぎ、雨宿りをすることにしました。En: He hurried to a nearby gazebo to take shelter.Ja: そこには、すでに雨を避けたはるかがいました。En: Haruka was already there, having taken refuge from the rain.Ja: 二人は黙って雨を見ながら時間を過ごしました。En: The two of them silently watched the rain together.Ja: だいちはやがて声をかけました。En: Eventually, Daichi spoke up.Ja: 「雨が止むまで少しお話しませんか？En: "Would you like to chat until the rain stops?"Ja: 」はるかは少し驚きましたが、彼のカメラを見て興味を持ち、スケッチブックを見せました。En: Haruka was slightly surprised but, intrigued by his camera, showed him her sketchbook.Ja: だいちは彼女の絵に感嘆し、「これを僕の写真プロジェクトに含められたら素敵だね」と言いました。En: Daichi was impressed by her artwork and said, "It would be wonderful if I could include this in my photography project."Ja: はるかは少し迷いましたが、だいちの情熱にひかれました。En: Haruka hesitated a bit but was drawn to Daichi's passion.Ja: 二人はアートと経験について語り合い、互いの視点を分かち合いました。En: The two shared their thoughts on art and experiences, exchanging perspectives.Ja: 雨の音に包まれながら、二人は心の交流を深めていきました。En: Wrapped in the sound of the rain, they deepened their connection.Ja: そして、雨がやみ、晴れた空が戻ると、二人は連絡先を交換し、再び会う約束をしました。En: When the rain stopped and the clear sky returned, they exchanged contact information and promised to meet again.Ja: はるかは新たな友人に心を開くことができ、だいちはゆっくりとした瞬間の価値を理解しました。En: Haruka was able to open her heart to a new friend, and Daichi came to appreciate the value of slow moments.Ja: 清められた空気の中で、彼らの友情はゆっくりと新たな一歩を踏み出しました。En: In the cleansed air, their friendship took a gentle new step forward.Ja: これからも二人は手を取り合い、美しい夏の思い出を作っていくことでしょう。En: Together, they would continue to create beautiful summer memories. Vocabulary Words:lush: 緑濃くradiated: 放っていましたabundance: 咲き誇りsketching: スケッチintroverted: 内向的なancestors: 祖先capture: 収めようlens: レンズcloud over: 空が曇りdrops: 大粒shelter: 雨宿りgazebo: 東屋refuge: 避けたintrigued: 興味を持ちsketchbook: スケッチブックhesitated: 迷いましたdrawn: ひかれましたperspectives: 視点wrapped: 包まれconnection: 心の交流cleansed: 清められたgentle: ゆっくりとstep forward: 新たな一歩memories: 思い出honor: 敬うtraditions: 伝統emotions: 感情impressed: 感嘆experiences: 経験appreciate: 理解しました

Fluent Fiction - Japanese: Hidden Shrine Quest: Hokkaido's Secret Summer Adventure Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.org/hidden-shrine-quest-hokkaidos-secret-summer-adventure Story Transcript:Ja: 北海道の森は夏の光で包まれていた。En: The forest in Hokkaido was enveloped in summer light.Ja: 緑が茂り、小川が静かに流れていた。En: The greenery was lush, and the brook flowed quietly.Ja: その静けさの中で、ユウタ、ハルコ、リナは学校の夏の遠足に来ていた。En: Amidst this tranquility, Yuta, Haruko, and Rina had come on their school's summer excursion.Ja: ユウタは好奇心旺盛で、冒険心に満ちていた。En: Yuta was full of curiosity and a spirit of adventure.Ja: 彼は噂の隠れた神社を見つけたいと思っていた。それはハルコとリナを驚かせるためだった。En: He wanted to find the rumored hidden shrine, hoping to surprise Haruko and Rina.Ja: ユウタは地図を片手に、森の中を進んでいた。En: With a map in hand, Yuta made his way through the forest.Ja: しかし、茂みが道を隠し、太陽が高く昇るにつれて、方向を見失い始めた。En: However, the undergrowth concealed the path, and as the sun rose higher, he began to lose his sense of direction.Ja: 時間も限られていた。遠足の時間は終わりに近づいていた。En: Time was also limited as the excursion was nearing its end.Ja: 「あの、近道しようよ！」ユウタは言った。En: "Hey, let's take a shortcut!" Yuta suggested.Ja: ハルコは心配そうに眉を顰めた。En: Haruko frowned worriedly.Ja: 「でも、先生が言ったよ。グループから離れちゃダメって。」En: "But the teacher said we shouldn't leave the group."Ja: しかし、リナは少し mischievous な微笑みを浮かべた。En: However, Rina flashed a slightly mischievous smile.Ja: 「それも楽しそうだね。」En: "That sounds fun too."Ja: 結局、ユウタはふたりを説得した。En: Eventually, Yuta persuaded the two of them.Ja: 彼らは森の奥へと向かうことにした。En: They decided to venture deeper into the forest.Ja: 道なき道を進むと、周りはますます密になっていった。En: As they moved off the beaten path, the surroundings grew denser.Ja: 鳥のさえずりが響き、木漏れ日が幻想的だった。En: The chirping of birds echoed, and the sunlight filtering through the trees was enchanting.Ja: やがて、日が傾きかけるときに、彼らは小さな祠を見つけた。En: Before long, as the sun began to set, they discovered a small shrine.Ja: 祠には古い苔が生えていて、静かにたたずんでいた。En: The shrine was covered in old moss and stood quietly.Ja: それはオボンの祭りを思い起こさせる神秘的な空気を放っていた。En: It exuded a mystical air reminiscent of the Obon festival.Ja: ユウタは感動した。En: Yuta was moved.Ja: ハルコは実用的な視点で、「これ、写真撮った方が良いね？」と言い、En: Haruko, ever practical, suggested, "Shouldn't we take a photo?"Ja: リナはその場の静けさに目を輝かせた。En: while Rina's eyes sparkled with the tranquility of the place.Ja: 発見の余韻に浸りながら、彼らは元の道に戻った。En: Basking in the afterglow of their discovery, they returned to their original path.Ja: 学校のグループに合流し、皆が興奮して彼らの話を聞きたがった。En: Rejoining the school group, everyone was eager to hear their story.Ja: この冒険を通じて、ユウタは自信を得た。En: Through this adventure, Yuta gained confidence.Ja: そして、ハルコとリナとの友情も深まった。En: His friendship with Haruko and Rina also deepened.Ja: また、日本の文化遺産への新たな感謝も芽生えた。En: Moreover, he developed a newfound appreciation for Japan's cultural heritage.Ja: 北海道の森は、静かに三人の成長を見守っていた。En: Quietly, the forest in Hokkaido watched over the growth of the three friends.Ja: 夏の太陽がゆっくりと沈む中、彼らの心には忘れられない思い出が刻まれた。En: As the summer sun slowly set, unforgettable memories were etched into their hearts. Vocabulary Words:enveloped: 包まれていたgreenery: 緑が茂りbrook: 小川tranquility: 静けさcuriosity: 好奇心undergrowth: 茂みshortcut: 近道concealed: 隠しmischievous: いたずらなventured: 向かうdenser: 密echoed: 響きenchanting: 幻想的なshrine: 神社moss: 苔mystical: 神秘的なafterglow: 余韻appreciation: 感謝cultural heritage: 文化遺産etched: 刻まれたluscious: 茂りrumored: 噂のpersuaded: 説得したfestive: 祝祭のpractical: 実用的なsparkled: 目を輝かせたdiscovered: 見つけたappreciation: 新たな感謝growth: 成長unforgettable: 忘れられない

こんにちは。 ジェニのピカピカ日本語へようこそ。 今日は日本の「お盆」についてご紹介します。 お盆は、日本の伝統的な祭りで、8月中旬に行われます。この期間は、先祖の霊を迎え、供養するための行事です。家族が集まり、お墓参りや灯篭を灯すなどの儀式が行われます。 ポッドキャストをお楽しみください。 Hello. Welcome to Jenni's Pika Pika Japanese. Today I would like to introduce “Obon” in Japan. Obon is a traditional Japanese festival that takes place in mid-August. During this period, the spirits of ancestors are welcomed and memorial services are held. Families gather to visit graves, light lanterns, and perform other rituals. Please enjoy the podcast. Hola. Bienvenidos a Pika Pika Japonés de Jenni. Hoy me gustaría presentarles el Obon en Japón. Obon es un festival tradicional japonés que tiene lugar a mediados de agosto. Durante este periodo, se da la bienvenida a los espíritus de los antepasados y se celebran servicios conmemorativos. Las familias se reúnen para visitar las tumbas y encender linternas, entre otros rituales. Disfrute del podcast.

日本の文化（ぶんか）や習慣（しゅうかん）について話します。 今回のトピックは「お盆（おぼん）」です。Script of this episode: https://buymeacoffee.com/manonihongo/880-listening-japan-4-obon

Fluent Fiction - Japanese: Bridging Heritage: A Journey Through Tastes and Traditions Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.org/bridging-heritage-a-journey-through-tastes-and-traditions Story Transcript:Ja: 夏の太陽が青空に輝く中、緑豊かな山々が囲む日本の田舎町が活気づいていました。En: Under the shining summer sun in a blue sky, a rural Japanese town surrounded by lush green mountains was bustling with activity.Ja: この町では、お盆祭りの準備が進められており、提灯が通りを彩り、人々の顔には微笑みが溢れていました。En: The town was in the midst of preparing for the Obon festival, with lanterns adorning the streets and smiles overflowing on people's faces.Ja: 春人（はると）は東京から帰郷し、この町の市場を訪れていました。En: Haruto had returned home from Tokyo and was visiting the town's market.Ja: 彼の目的は、祖母がよく作ってくれた特別な家族料理のための新鮮な食材を見つけることでした。En: His goal was to find fresh ingredients for a special family dish that his grandmother often made.Ja: 特に彼の探し求めていたのは、祖母がいつも使っていた珍しい野菜でした。En: In particular, he was searching for a rare vegetable that his grandmother always used.Ja: 市場には、色とりどりの新鮮な果物や野菜が並び、たくさんの人々が買い物を楽しんでいました。En: The market was lined with a colorful array of fresh fruits and vegetables, and many people were enjoying shopping.Ja: しかし、春人が探している野菜はどこにも見当たりません。En: However, the vegetable Haruto was looking for was nowhere to be found.Ja: 彼は焦りを感じ始めました。En: He began to feel anxious.Ja: そのとき、春人の目に留まったのは、一人の若い女性でした。En: At that moment, Haruto noticed a young woman.Ja: 彼女の名前は愛子で、この地域で農業を営む女性でした。En: Her name was Aiko, a local female farmer.Ja: 彼女は市場の隅で、自分のブースに座っていました。En: She was sitting at her booth in the corner of the market.Ja: 春人は彼女に近づき、事情を話しました。En: Haruto approached her and explained his situation.Ja: 「すみません、愛子さん。この野菜を探しているのですが、どこにも見つかりません。」春人は説明しました。En: “Excuse me, Aiko. I'm looking for this vegetable, but I can't find it anywhere,” Haruto explained.Ja: 愛子は親しみのある笑顔で答えました。「夏の間、その野菜は少し珍しいですね。En: Aiko replied with a friendly smile, “That vegetable is a bit rare in the summer.Ja: けれど、私の家族のレシピで使う特別な野菜があります。それを試してみませんか？」En: But I have a special vegetable used in my family's recipes. Would you like to try it?”Ja: 異なる伝統に触れるチャンスを感じた春人は、愛子の提案に賛成しました。En: Sensing an opportunity to experience a different tradition, Haruto agreed to Aiko's suggestion.Ja: 愛子は誇らしげに、自分の家族が何世代にもわたって大切にしてきた野菜を見せてくれました。En: Proudly, Aiko showed him a vegetable that her family had cherished for generations.Ja: それは、春人の祖母のレシピに新しい風を吹き込むための完璧な選択でした。En: It was the perfect choice to bring a new touch to his grandmother's recipe.Ja: 春人は愛子からその野菜を購入し、感謝の気持ちを伝えました。En: Haruto purchased the vegetable from Aiko and thanked her.Ja: 彼は東京に帰り、心を込めて料理を作りました。En: He returned to Tokyo and prepared the dish with heartfelt care.Ja: その料理を家族と共に食べながら、彼は祖母を思い出し、彼女との思い出を共有しました。En: While eating the dish with his family, Haruto remembered his grandmother and shared memories of her.Ja: その夜、春人は自分の家族の伝統を尊重しつつ、新しい影響を受け入れることの大切さを学びました。En: That night, Haruto learned the significance of respecting his family's traditions while embracing new influences.Ja: 彼は過去と現在のつながりを感じ、穏やかで満ち足りた気持ちで夜空を見上げました。En: He felt a connection between the past and the present as he gazed up at the night sky, feeling serene and content.Ja: 市場での出来事は、ただの買い物ではありませんでした。En: The events at the market were more than just shopping.Ja: それは、家族の絆を深め、精神的な成長につながる旅だったのです。En: They were a journey that deepened family bonds and led to personal growth. Vocabulary Words:shining: 輝くrural: 田舎のbustling: 活気づいているadorn: 彩るlantern: 提灯overflowing: 溢れていたrare: 珍しいarray: 並びanxious: 焦りを感じるbooth: ブースsituation: 事情friendly: 親しみのあるcherished: 大切にしてきたgenerations: 何世代もpurchase: 購入するheartfelt: 心を込めたsignificance: 大切さrespecting: 尊重するtradition: 伝統embracing: 受け入れるinfluences: 影響connection: つながりserene: 穏やかcontent: 満ち足りたevents: 出来事journey: 旅personal: 個人的なgrowth: 成長bonds: 絆amidst: 中（に）

A Japanese woman's life is in turmoil. Can a return to her family home offer any guidance?C.S. Fuqua's books include Fatherhood ~ Poems of Parenthood, Walking After Midnight ~ Collected Stories, Big Daddy's Fast-Past Gadget, Native American Flute ~ A Comprehensive Guide, and White Trash & Southern ~ Collected Poems. His work has appeared in publications such as Year's Best Horror Stories XIX, XX and XXI, Pudding, The Horror Show, Pearl, Chiron Review, Christian Science Monitor, The Old Farmer's Almanac, The Writer, and Honolulu Magazine.You can read "Obon" at https://www.kaidankaistories.com.Website: kaidankaistories.comFollow us on: Twitter/XInstagramFacebookPhoto of incense by David Brooke Martin on Unsplash.

先週末から、今度の日曜日まで開催されている、クリエイティブユニット「CCMS」による展示＆販売イベント「CCMS experiment OBON！」ついてCCMSのメンバーであるデザイナーのコヤマシゲトさんに深掘りしていただきました！

Eight months have passed since the Noto Peninsula earthquake that occurred on January 1st this year. The first Obon festival is approaching. Benjamin Flatt, Sydney-born and Local of Noto, and his wife Chikako Funashita. - 今年、1月1日に起きた、能登半島地震から8か月が過ぎ、最初のお盆を迎えようとしています。現地の様子を、シドニー出身のベンジャミン・フラットさんと、妻の船下智香子さんに聞きました。

Fluent Fiction - Japanese: Unearthed Secrets: The Dormitory Discovery of Hidden Heirlooms Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.org/unearthed-secrets-the-dormitory-discovery-of-hidden-heirlooms Story Transcript:Ja: 夏の暑い午後、アイコとハルトは古い大学の寮の部屋で過ごしていました。En: On a hot summer afternoon, Aiko and Haruto were spending time in an old dormitory room at their university.Ja: 床の隙間から冷たい空気が漏れ、セミの鳴き声が窓の外から聞こえてきます。En: Cold air seeped through the gaps in the floor, and the sound of cicadas echoed from outside the window.Ja: アイコは歴史学を専攻しており、常に新しい発見に胸を躍らせていました。En: Aiko, who majored in history, always felt exhilarated by new discoveries.Ja: 一方、ハルトは工学部の学生で、パズルや謎解きが大好きでした。En: On the other hand, Haruto was an engineering student with a love for puzzles and mysteries.Ja: ある日、アイコは寮の床板が少し浮いているのを見つけました。En: One day, Aiko noticed that one of the floorboards in the dormitory was slightly raised.Ja: 「これ、なんだろう？」彼女は好奇心に駆られ、ハルトを呼びました。En: "What is this?" Driven by curiosity, she called Haruto.Ja: 「ここ、ちょっと変じゃない？」En: "Does this look strange to you?"Ja: ハルトは興味津々で床板をめくってみると、そこには古びた手紙が隠されていました。En: Intrigued, Haruto lifted the floorboard and found an old letter hidden underneath.Ja: 「これは…古そうだな」と彼は手紙を慎重に広げました。En: "This... looks really old," he said, carefully unfolding the letter.Ja: しかし、その手紙は古い日本語で書かれており、読むのに苦労しました。En: However, the letter was written in old Japanese, making it challenging to read.Ja: 「これを解読しよう！」アイコは目を輝かせました。En: "Let's try to decipher this!" Aiko said, her eyes sparkling with excitement.Ja: 「でもどうやって？」En: "But how?"Ja: ハルトはパズルを解くように手紙をじっくりと見つめました。En: Haruto scrutinized the letter, as if solving a puzzle.Ja: 「まず、古い辞書を探そう。それから文字を一つずつ見ていこう。」En: "First, let's find an old dictionary. Then, we'll look at the characters one by one."Ja: 二人は図書館で古い辞書や歴史書を漁りながら、少しずつ手紙の意味を解明していきました。En: The two of them rummaged through old dictionaries and historical books in the library, gradually unraveling the letter's meaning.Ja: 手紙には大学の隠れた秘密や、お宝の存在をほのめかす内容が含まれていました。En: The letter hinted at a hidden secret of the university and the existence of a treasure.Ja: でも、解明には多くの謎が残されていました。En: However, many mysteries remained unsolved.Ja: 一方、オボン祭りが近づいており、ハルトの両親が訪れる予定でした。En: Meanwhile, the Obon festival was approaching, and Haruto's parents were scheduled to visit.Ja: 「解読しつつ、両親が来る準備もしなきゃならない。忙しいなあ」とハルトは頭をかきながら言いました。En: "We have to decipher this letter and prepare for my parents' visit as well. It's going to be busy," Haruto said, scratching his head.Ja: 「他の学生に相談するべきかな？」とアイコが提案しました。En: "Should we ask other students for help?" Aiko suggested.Ja: 「でも、秘密が広まるかもしれないし…」En: "But the secret might spread..."Ja: 二人は慎重に手紙を解読し続けました。En: Cautiously, they continued to decipher the letter.Ja: そして、ついに手紙の指示に従って、大学の裏庭にある忘れられた建物の存在を突き止めました。En: Finally, following its instructions, they discovered an old, forgotten building in the university's backyard.Ja: 「行ってみよう！」アイコは興奮しました。En: "Let's go!" Aiko exclaimed excitedly.Ja: 二人は懐中電灯を持って、夜の冒険に出かけました。En: They grabbed flashlights and set out on a nighttime adventure.Ja: 古い建物は廃墟と化しており、暗闇の中で探索を進めると急に停電が発生しました。En: The old building had turned into ruins, and as they explored in the darkness, a sudden power outage occurred.Ja: 「うわっ！」ハルトは驚きましたが、二人は冷静に進み続けました。En: "Whoa!" Haruto was startled, but they remained calm and pressed on.Ja: そして、最後の扉を開けると、そこには古い家宝が隠されていました。En: When they opened the final door, they found an old family heirloom hidden inside.Ja: 「これは…うちの家の紋章だ！」ハルトは驚愕しました。En: "This... This is my family crest!" Haruto gasped.Ja: 「どうやらこれは僕の先祖のものらしい。」En: "It seems this belonged to my ancestors."Ja: ハルトの両親が到着した時、二人は発見した家宝を見せました。En: When Haruto's parents arrived, the two showed them the discovered heirloom.Ja: 両親は感激し、大学の管理者も感謝の意を表しました。En: His parents were deeply moved, and the university administrators expressed their gratitude.Ja: 「これで少しは認められたかな」とハルトは笑いました。En: "Perhaps we've finally earned some recognition," Haruto chuckled.Ja: アイコは自分の好奇心と努力が報われたことに嬉しさを感じ、もっと歴史を研究したいという新たな目標を見つけました。En: Aiko felt joy as her curiosity and efforts were rewarded and found a new goal of furthering her study of history.Ja: 夏の冒険を経て、二人はそれぞれの道をさらに進んでいくことを決意しました。En: After this summer adventure, the two were determined to pursue their respective paths.Ja: この経験が彼らにとって大きな財産となりました。En: This experience became a significant treasure for them both. Vocabulary Words:exhilarated: 胸を躍らせてseeped: 漏れcicadas: セミintrigued: 興味津々decipher: 解読scrutinized: じっくりと見つめrummaged: 漁りながらunraveling: 解明hinted: ほのめかすobon festival: オボン祭りscheduled: 予定approaching: 近づいておりexclaimed: 興奮しましたflashlights: 懐中電灯nighttime adventure: 夜の冒険ruins: 廃墟power outage: 停電heirloom: 家宝crest: 紋章ancestors: 先祖gratitude: 感謝recognition: 認められたcuriosity: 好奇心sparkling: 目を輝かせmajored: 専攻floorboards: 床板library: 図書館engineering: 工学部emotions: 感激adventure: 冒険

On today's episode we share some spooky stories from Okinawa Japan - fitting as it is Obon festival this week! We'd also like to thank akodiaks and gonzojeff for letting us share your stories!Join Sarah's new FACEBOOK GROUPSubscribe to our PATREONEMAIL us your storiesFollow us on YOUTUBEJoin us on INSTAGRAMJoin us on TWITTERJoin us on FACEBOOKVisit our WEBSITEResearch Links:https://www.history.com/topics/world-war-ii/battle-of-okinawahttps://www.smithsonianmag.com/history/bloody-hell-okinawa-180975148/https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Camp_Fosterhttps://www.military.com/history/6-more-ghost-stories-most-haunted-place-us-military.htmlStories:https://www.reddit.com/r/Ghosts/s/siLuQsdu6phttps://www.reddit.com/r/Ghoststories/s/o6uH12OEtrhttps://www.reddit.com/r/Ghoststories/s/T4ODjkQGm8Thanks so much for listening, and we'll catch up with you again on Thursday.Sarah and Tobie xx"Spacial Winds" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 Licencehttp://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Get bonus content on Patreon Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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Fluent Fiction - Japanese: Lost in Shinjuku Gyoen: An Unexpected Adventure in Tokyo Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.org/lost-in-shinjuku-gyoen-an-unexpected-adventure-in-tokyo Story Transcript:Ja: 夏の日差しが輝く東京、新宿御苑。En: On a bright summer day in Tokyo, in Shinjuku Gyoen.Ja: 観光客がゆっくりと園内を歩き回っていました。En: Tourists were leisurely strolling through the park.Ja: ハルト、ソラ、ユイの三人もその中にいました。En: Among them were Haruto, Sora, and Yui.Ja: 今日はお盆の休みで、友達同士で散策を楽しんでいました。En: It was Obon holiday, and they were enjoying a walk together as friends.Ja: 「この温室、ほんとに素敵だね！」ソラが目を輝かせて言いました。En: "This greenhouse is really beautiful!" Sora exclaimed with shining eyes.Ja: ハルトはメモ帳を取り出しながら、温室の入場時間を確認しました。En: Haruto took out his notepad and checked the greenhouse's hours of operation.Ja: 「うん、16時30分まで営業するよ。まだ時間あるね。」En: "Yeah, it's open until 4:30 PM. We still have some time."Ja: 「あと少しで閉園だよ。そろそろ出た方がいいかも。」ユイが心配そうに言いました。En: "It's almost closing time. We should probably head out soon," Yui said worriedly.Ja: ハルトはうなずき、温室の出口に向かいました。En: Haruto nodded and headed for the greenhouse exit.Ja: しかし、ドアを開けようとすると、ガチャリと音がして開きません。En: However, when he tried to open the door, it made a rattling sound and wouldn't open.Ja: 「えっ、どうしよう？」ハルトが驚いて言いました。En: "What should we do?" Haruto said in surprise.Ja: どうやら、閉園時間が早まってしまったようでした。En: It seemed that the closing time had been moved up.Ja: 「まあ、これも冒険だよ！」ソラが笑いながら言いました。En: "Well, it's an adventure too!" Sora said, laughing.Ja: 「どこか別の出口を探そうよ！」En: "Let's find another exit!"Ja: 「でも、大変な事になったらどうするの？」ユイが不安そうに言いました。En: "But what if something happens?" Yui said anxiously.Ja: 「大丈夫、大丈夫。さあ、行こう！」ソラは手招きしました。En: "It's fine, it's fine. Come on, let's go!" Sora beckoned.Ja: ハルトはポケットから小さな工具セットを取り出し、鍵穴をじっくりと見つめました。En: Haruto took a small tool set out of his pocket and closely examined the keyhole.Ja: 「鍵を開けてみるよ。」En: "I'll try to unlock it."Ja: ハルトが鍵をいじっている間、ソラとユイは温室内を探し回りました。En: While Haruto was fiddling with the lock, Sora and Yui searched around the greenhouse.Ja: その途中、小さな扉を発見しました。En: Along the way, they discovered a small door.Ja: 「こっちだよ！」ソラが叫びました。En: "Over here!" Sora shouted.Ja: ハルトもユイもその扉に駆け寄りました。En: Both Haruto and Yui rushed to the door.Ja: しかし、扉には「アラーム設置」という看板がありました。En: However, there was a sign that read "Alarm Installed."Ja: ソラは笑顔で扉を開けようとしましたが、その瞬間、大きなアラーム音が鳴り響きました。En: Sora tried to open the door with a smile, but the moment she did, a loud alarm sounded.Ja: 「しまった！」ハルトが叫び、En: "Damn it!" shouted Haruto.Ja: みんなは慌てて近くの植物の陰に隠れました。En: They all hurried to hide behind some nearby plants.Ja: 少しすると、職員がやって来ました。En: After a while, a staff member arrived.Ja: 職員は三人を見つけると、微笑みながら言いました。「閉園時間を過ぎちゃいましたね。En: When the staff member found the three of them, he smiled and said, "Looks like you stayed past closing time.Ja: でも、今度から時間をしっかり確認してくださいね。」En: But make sure to check the time carefully next time."Ja: 三人は安堵し、お礼を言って外に出ました。En: The three of them felt relieved and thanked the staff as they exited.Ja: その帰り道、ハルトは考えました。「確かに、たまには予想外の事も悪くないかも。」En: On the way home, Haruto thought, "Indeed, sometimes unexpected situations aren't so bad after all."Ja: ソラも考えました。「次からは、少し慎重になろう。」En: Sora also thought, "Next time, I'll be a bit more cautious."Ja: ユイも心の中で思いました。「私は、もっと自分の意見を言わなきゃ。」En: Yui thought to herself, "I need to express my own opinions more."Ja: 新宿御苑の緑を背に、三人は友達同士の絆を深めた一日を終えました。En: With the greenery of Shinjuku Gyoen behind them, the three friends concluded a day that had deepened their bond. Vocabulary Words:bright: 日差しleisurely: ゆっくりstrolling: 歩き回ってgreenhouse: 温室exclaimed: 言いましたrattling: ガチャリadventure: 冒険beckoned: 手招きfiddling: いじってkeyhole: 鍵穴discovering: 発見しましたsign: 看板alarm: アラームnearby: 近くstaff: 職員closing time: 閉園時間hesitant: 不安そうunlock: 鍵を開けてcarefully: じっくりexamined: 見つめましたtool set: 工具セットmoment: 瞬間rushed: 駆け寄りましたexpress: 言わなきゃopinion: 意見vanished: 消えましたincident: 事件unexpected: 予想外careful: 慎重thought: 考えました

Fluent Fiction - Japanese: From City Dreams to Village Traditions: Emiko's Journey Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.org/from-city-dreams-to-village-traditions-emikos-journey Story Transcript:Ja: 夏の日、エミコは電車に乗って家族のもとへ向かっていた。En: On a summer day, Emiko was on a train heading towards her family.Ja: 窓の外には、美しい日本アルプスの山々が見え、心が少し落ち着いた。En: Outside the window, the beautiful mountains of the Japanese Alps came into view, which calmed her heart a bit.Ja: エミコは子供の頃、この村で育ったが、今は都会で暮らしている。En: Emiko had grown up in this village as a child but now lived in the city.Ja: 久しぶりの帰郷だ。En: It was her first visit home in a while.Ja: 「ただいま、エミコ！」弟のダイキが笑顔で迎えてくれた。En: “Welcome back, Emiko!” her younger brother, Daiki, greeted her with a smile.Ja: 温泉リゾートの木造の建物が見え、懐かしさがこみ上げる。En: The sight of the wooden building of the hot spring resort brought a rush of nostalgia.Ja: しかし、エミコは少し緊張していた。En: However, Emiko felt a bit nervous.Ja: 都会での生活に慣れすぎて、村の人々や風習に馴染めるか不安だった。En: She worried whether she could adapt to the people and customs of the village, having become so accustomed to city life.Ja: オボン祭りの準備が進む村は、提灯の明かりで輝いていた。En: The village, busy with preparations for the Obon Festival, was glowing with the light of lanterns.Ja: 家族みんなで料理を作り、祭りのために飾り付けをする。En: The family gathered to cook and decorate for the festival.Ja: エミコも手伝おうとするが、どこかぎこちない。En: Emiko tried to help, but her actions were somewhat awkward.Ja: 心の中では、村を離れたことへの後悔や罪悪感が渦巻いていた。En: Inside, she felt a swirl of regret and guilt for having left the village.Ja: 「エミコ、都会の生活はどうだ？」ダイキが尋ねた。En: “How is life in the city, Emiko?” Daiki asked.Ja: エミコは笑顔で答えようとしたが、心の奥では弟の伝統的な価値観に対する不安があった。En: Emiko tried to smile as she answered, but deep in her heart, she feared her brother's traditional values.Ja: そして、迎えたオボンの夜。En: Then came the night of Obon.Ja: 川のほとりで行われる灯籠流しの儀式が始まった。En: The ceremony of floating lanterns on the river began.Ja: 灯籠に灯したろうそくの火が、ゆらゆらと水面に映る。エミコは、その美しさに見とれていた。En: The flickering candlelight in the lanterns reflected on the water's surface, mesmerizing Emiko with its beauty.Ja: 「エミコ、少し話そうか」とダイキが静かに言った。En: “Emiko, can we talk for a bit?” Daiki said quietly.Ja: 二人は川のほとりに座り、穏やかな風が通り抜けた。En: They sat by the riverbank, where a gentle breeze passed by.Ja: 「どうして村を離れた？」ダイキの声は優しかった。En: “Why did you leave the village?” Daiki's voice was kind.Ja: エミコは深呼吸をし、気持ちを整理した。En: Emiko took a deep breath and gathered her thoughts.Ja: 「都会での夢があった。でも、家族や村を疎かにしてしまった気がして」とエミコはつぶやいた。涙があふれる。En: “I had dreams in the city. But I feel like I neglected my family and the village,” she murmured, tears welling up.Ja: ダイキはエミコの肩に手を置き、「大丈夫だよ。夢を追いかけることは悪いことじゃない。家族はいつでもエミコを応援している」と言った。En: Daiki placed a hand on Emiko's shoulder and said, “It's alright. Chasing your dreams isn't a bad thing. Your family has always supported you.”Ja: エミコはダイキの言葉に救われた気がした。「ありがとう、ダイキ。En: Emiko felt saved by Daiki's words. “Thank you, Daiki.Ja: これからはもっと頻繁に帰るよ。村のことも、大切に思っている」と心から伝えた。En: From now on, I'll visit more often. The village means a lot to me,” she conveyed sincerely.Ja: 灯籠流しの儀式は続いていた。En: The lantern floating ceremony continued.Ja: エミコとダイキは一緒に灯籠を流し、先祖を弔った。En: Emiko and Daiki released a lantern together, honoring their ancestors.Ja: 静かに流れる川と、夜空に輝く星々の下で、エミコは心の平安を見つけた。En: Under the quietly flowing river and the starlit sky, Emiko found peace of mind.Ja: 「また来てね、エミコ」とダイキが微笑んだ。En: “Come again, Emiko,” Daiki smiled.Ja: 「もちろん」とエミコも微笑んだ。En: “Of course,” Emiko smiled back.Ja: エミコは、都会の生活と村の伝統をバランス良く取り入れることを決心した。En: Emiko decided to find a balance between her city life and the village traditions.Ja: ダイキもまた、エミコの選択を理解し、応援することを心に誓った。En: Daiki, too, vowed in his heart to understand and support Emiko's choices.Ja: こうして、エミコは新たな視点で再び村を後にし、定期的に故郷を訪れることを決意した。En: Thus, Emiko left the village with a new perspective and resolved to visit her hometown regularly.Ja: 家族との絆は一層強まり、彼女は新しい未来へと歩み出した。En: The bond with her family grew stronger, and she stepped towards a new future. Vocabulary Words:calmed: 落ち着いたnostalgia: 懐かしさawkward: ぎこちないregret: 後悔guilt: 罪悪感customs: 風習preparations: 準備lanterns: 提灯festival: 祭りdecorated: 飾り付けmurmured: つぶやいたcandles: ろうそくflickering: ゆらゆらmesmerizing: 見とれていたgentle: 穏やかなbreeze: 風dreams: 夢neglected: 疎かにしてしまったsupported: 応援しているancestors: 先祖perspective: 視点resolved: 決意floating: 流しhonoring: 弔ったquietly: 静かにflowing: 流れるlantern floating ceremony: 灯籠流しの儀式grew stronger: 一層強まりvowed: 誓ったheart: 心

Fluent Fiction - Japanese: Haruka's Journey: Discovering Traditions at Sakura no Yado Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.org/harukas-journey-discovering-traditions-at-sakura-no-yado Story Transcript:Ja: 緑の山に囲まれた美しい旅館「さくらの宿」で、ハルカとカイトが家族と一緒にお盆を迎えていました。En: At the beautiful inn "Sakura no Yado," surrounded by lush green mountains, Haruka and Kaito were spending the Obon holiday with their family.Ja: 外は夏の陽気で、人々はお盆の準備に大忙しです。En: Outside, it was a lively summer atmosphere, and people were bustling with preparations for Obon.Ja: 旅館の畳の部屋には、伝統的な障子があり、優しい風が吹き込んでいます。En: In the tatami room of the inn, traditional shoji screens let in a gentle breeze.Ja: ハルカは都会からこの古い家に来るのが初めてでした。En: For Haruka, it was her first time coming to this old house from the city.Ja: 彼女はスマートフォンを手に持ち、友達とメッセージを交換していました。En: She held her smartphone and exchanged messages with her friends.Ja: 「どうしてこんな遠くに来なきゃいけないの？」彼女はそう考えていました。En: "Why do I have to come all the way out here?" she thought.Ja: 一方、カイトは家族の伝統を大切にしていました。En: Meanwhile, Kaito cherished the family's traditions.Ja: 彼はお盆の行事を通じて、ハルカに家族の歴史を知ってもらいたいと願っていました。En: He wanted Haruka to learn about their family history through the Obon events.Ja: 「この祭りには、先祖の霊を迎える深い意味があるよ」とカイトはハルカに説明しましたが、ハルカはうわの空でした。En: "This festival has a deep meaning of welcoming the spirits of our ancestors," Kaito explained to Haruka, but she was only half listening.Ja: やがて、お盆のメインイベントが始まりました。En: Eventually, the main event of Obon began.Ja: 人々は提灯を持ちながら山道を登って行きます。En: People, holding lanterns, started to climb the mountain path.Ja: ハルカは「少し町を見て回ってくる」と言って、その行列から離れました。En: Haruka said, "I'll just take a look around town," and left the procession.Ja: カイトは心配しましたが、「彼女も自分のペースで学んで欲しい」と思い、見送ることにしました。En: Kaito was worried but thought, "I want her to learn at her own pace," so he saw her off.Ja: ハルカが町に出ると、夏祭りの準備で賑わっていました。En: When Haruka went into town, it was bustling with preparations for the summer festival.Ja: カラフルな屋台や笑顔の子供たちが彼女の興味を引きました。En: The colorful stalls and the smiling children piqued her interest.Ja: しかし、心のどこかで家族のことが気になっていました。En: However, somewhere in her heart, she was still thinking about her family.Ja: その日の夜、旅館に戻ったハルカをカイトが迎えました。En: That night, when Haruka returned to the inn, Kaito greeted her.Ja: 「ハルカ、一緒に提灯を灯そう」と彼は静かに言いました。En: "Haruka, let's light the lanterns together," he said quietly.Ja: 二人は提灯に火を灯し、先祖の霊を迎える準備をしました。En: The two lit the lanterns, preparing to welcome the spirits of their ancestors.Ja: 灯りが揺れる中、ハルカは初めてその美しさと静けさに心を打たれました。En: As the lights flickered, Haruka was struck by their beauty and tranquility for the first time.Ja: 「この灯りは、先祖の魂と私たちをつないでいるんだね」と彼女はつぶやきました。En: "These lights connect the souls of our ancestors with us, don't they?" she murmured.Ja: カイトはほっとした表情でうなずきました。En: Kaito nodded with a relieved expression.Ja: 「私、もっと家族のことを知りたい。En: "I want to know more about our family.Ja: 都会に戻ったら、おばあちゃんやおじいちゃんの話をもっと聞こうと思う」とハルカは続けました。En: When I return to the city, I think I'll listen more to Grandma and Grandpa's stories," Haruka continued.Ja: 「それに、お盆の意味も大切にしたいと思ったの」と。En: "And I've realized how important the meaning of Obon is."Ja: 翌朝、旅館を出発する前に、ハルカはカイトに言いました。En: The next morning, before leaving the inn, Haruka spoke to Kaito.Ja: 「ありがとう。私、もう少しだけど理解できた気がするよ」。En: "Thank you. I feel like I understand a little better now."Ja: ハルカは都会の生活に戻りましたが、心の中には新しい何かが芽生えていました。En: Haruka returned to her city life, but something new had grown within her.Ja: それは、家族への尊敬と伝統への理解でした。En: It was a newfound respect for her family and an understanding of their traditions.Ja: これからは、忙しい毎日の中でもお盆を忘れず、大切にすることを決めました。En: She decided that from now on, no matter how busy her days were, she would keep Obon in her heart and cherish it.Ja: そして夏ごとに、ハルカは「さくらの宿」に戻り、カイトと共に家族の歴史をたどり、お盆を迎えるのでした。En: And so, every summer, Haruka returned to "Sakura no Yado," tracing her family's history with Kaito and celebrating Obon together. Vocabulary Words:inn: 旅館lush: 緑ment: 意味cherished: 大切にしていたancestors: 先祖procession: 行列gentle: 優しいshoji screens: 障子breeze: 風cherish: 尊敬するspirits: 霊city life: 都会の生活traditions: 伝統holiday: 祝日event: 祭りlighting: 灯flickered: 揺れるtranquility: 静けさbeauty: 美しさlight: 灯りsoul: 魂understanding: 理解respect: 尊敬preparations: 準備lanterns: 提灯grandparents: おばあちゃんやおじいちゃんthoroughly: 徹底的にupbringing: 育ちfestivities: 祭りwelcoming: 迎える

C'est la période Obon. Les ancêtres reviennent au monde. Nous nous rendons sur leurs tombes ou des moines viennent chez nous pour prier à l'autel. C'est une période de rassemblements familiaux, les restaurants sont donc bondés et de nombreuses personnes voyagent.

Fluent Fiction - Japanese: Lanterns and Legacies: An Unforgettable Obon Festival Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.org/lanterns-and-legacies-an-unforgettable-obon-festival Story Transcript:Ja: 北海道のアイヌ村。En: Ainu Village in Hokkaido.Ja: 夏の夜、色とりどりの提灯が輝いている。En: On a summer night, colorful lanterns glowed brightly.Ja: お盆祭りが始まった。En: The Obon festival had begun.Ja: 春斗はアイヌ文化に興味があった。En: Haruto, a university student, was interested in Ainu culture.Ja: 大学生の春斗と幼なじみの愛子は、村を訪れていた。En: He and his childhood friend Aiko were visiting the village.Ja: 地元のアイヌの少女、りなは彼らを歓迎した。En: Rina, a local Ainu girl, welcomed them.Ja: 「こんにちは」春斗がぎこちなく声をかけた。En: "Hello," Haruto said awkwardly.Ja: 「こんにちは」りなが微笑んだ。En: "Hello," Rina smiled.Ja: 「お盆の踊りながしを見にきたの？」En: "Are you here to see the Obon dance?"Ja: 「はい」と春斗が答えた。En: "Yes," Haruto replied.Ja: 「アイヌの伝統についてもっと知りたいです。」En: "I want to learn more about Ainu traditions."Ja: 愛子も頭を下げてあいさつしたが、心の中では自分の未来について悩んでいた。En: Aiko also bowed and greeted, but inside, she was worried about her own future.Ja: 祭りが進む中、りなは自分の役割にプレッシャーを感じていた。En: As the festival progressed, Rina felt pressure about her role.Ja: 伝統を守りたい一方で、現代的な生活にも興味があったのだ。En: She wanted to preserve traditions but was also interested in modern life.Ja: 春斗と話すことで、彼女の思いはさらに揺れ動いた。En: Talking with Haruto made her feelings even more conflicted.Ja: 祭りの夜、春斗は決意した。En: During the festival night, Haruto made up his mind.Ja: 「踊りの競技に参加します。」En: "I will participate in the dance competition."Ja: 彼はそう宣言した。En: He announced.Ja: 「え？」りなが驚いた。En: "What?" Rina was surprised.Ja: 「外国人は難しいかも。」En: "It might be difficult for an outsider."Ja: 「大丈夫です。やってみたいです。」En: "It's okay. I really want to try."Ja: 春斗の目は真剣だった。En: Haruto's eyes were serious.Ja: 愛子は春斗の姿を見て、心の中で決意した。En: Seeing Haruto, Aiko decided in her heart,Ja: 「ここにもっと長くいたい。自分を見つけたい。」En: "I want to stay here longer. I want to find myself."Ja: 競技の夜、祭りの主舞台で春斗とりなは一緒に踊った。En: On the night of the competition, Haruto and Rina danced together on the festival's main stage.Ja: 観客の目が二人に注がれた。En: The audience's eyes were fixed on them.Ja: 突然、春斗はステップを間違えた。En: Suddenly, Haruto missed a step.Ja: りなが手を差し伸べ、彼を導いた。En: Rina reached out her hand and guided him.Ja: 「私たちは同じ踊りを踊る。」りなは優しく言った。En: "We are dancing the same dance," Rina said gently.Ja: その瞬間、愛子はすべてがクリアになった。En: At that moment, everything became clear to Aiko.Ja: 村での時間が自分の未来を照らしているように感じた。En: She felt that her time in the village was illuminating her future.Ja: 春斗は踊りを通じて文化の深さを感じた。En: Through the dance, Haruto felt a deep connection to the culture.Ja: 彼はりなに感謝した。En: He thanked Rina.Ja: 「りな、ありがとう。アイヌ文化をもっと理解できました。」En: "Rina, thank you. I gained a deeper understanding of Ainu culture."Ja: りなは頬を赤らめた。En: Rina blushed.Ja: 「私も新しい視点をもらった。En: "I also gained a new perspective.Ja: 伝統を守りながら、現代も大事にする。」En: It's important to cherish both tradition and modernity."Ja: 祭りの終わり、三人は夜空を見上げた。En: At the end of the festival, the three looked up at the night sky.Ja: 提灯の光が空に映え、彼らの心に新しい決意を灯した。En: The lights of the lanterns shone in the sky, igniting new resolutions in their hearts.Ja: 春斗は、文化の理解が深まり、愛子は新しい未来の見方を得て、りなは自分の道を見つけた。En: Haruto deepened his understanding of the culture, Aiko found a new outlook on her future, and Rina found her path.Ja: それぞれが変わり、成長した夜だった。En: It was a night in which each of them changed and grew. Vocabulary Words:curious: 興味があるawkwardly: ぎこちなくfestival: 祭りlocal: 地元のpreserve: 守るtraditions: 伝統conflicted: 揺れ動いたrole: 役割competition: 競技resolution: 決意difficult: 難しいunderstanding: 理解pressure: プレッシャーcherish: 大事にするlanterns: 提灯announce: 宣言illuminating: 照らしているperspective: 視点outsider: 外国人sum: 始まったglowing: 輝いているbowed: 頭を下げてcleared: クリアguide: 導くdepth: 深さperspective: 視点village: 村missed: 間違えたwelcomed: 歓迎したmodernity: 現代

Fluent Fiction - Japanese: Sibling Unity: The Summer They Found Strength in Teamwork Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.org/sibling-unity-the-summer-they-found-strength-in-teamwork Story Transcript:Ja: 夏の暑い朝、波のようなセミの鳴き声が庭の木々から響いてきた。En: On a hot summer morning, the sound of cicadas buzzed like waves from the trees in the garden.Ja: 家の涼しい風が吹き抜ける大きな家の中では、三人の兄弟が忙しく動き回っていた。En: Inside the large house, where a cool breeze flowed, three siblings were busily moving about.Ja: 今日は学校の運動会の準備の日である。En: Today was the preparation day for the school sports festival.Ja: しかし、彼らだけの仕事ではない。En: However, their responsibilities extended beyond just that.Ja: お盆の祖父の記憶を尊重して、家でも多忙だった。En: To honor their late grandfather during the Obon festival, the family was also very busy at home.Ja: 「大丈夫、みんな。私がやるから。」ハルトはお皿を片付けながら言った。En: "Don't worry, everyone. I'll handle it," said Haruto while clearing the dishes.Ja: 彼は最年長で、責任感が強かった。En: Being the eldest, he had a strong sense of responsibility.Ja: 「でも、ハルト兄さん、一人で全部は無理だよ。」アイコが心配そうに言った。En: "But, Haruto, it's impossible for you to do everything alone," Aiko said with concern.Ja: 彼女は家族の調和を大切にする中間子だった。En: She was the middle child who valued family harmony.Ja: 「そんなことない。全部きちんとやり遂げないと、じいちゃんに顔向けできない。」ハルトは少し怒り気味に答えた。En: "That's not true. We need to get everything done properly, or we won't be able to face Grandpa," Haruto replied somewhat angrily.Ja: その時、外で楽しそうにスリップアンドスライドしているナツミが入ってきた。「あ、運動会の準備って面倒くさいね。でも、私も手伝うよ？」En: At that moment, Natsumi, who had been joyfully playing slip and slide outside, came in, "Oh, preparations for the sports festival are such a hassle. But I'll help too."Ja: ハルトは眉をひそめた。「ナツミ、おまえは本当に分かってるのか？運動会の準備はこんなに大変なんだぞ？」En: Haruto frowned. "Natsumi, do you really understand? Preparation for the sports festival is a lot of work."Ja: ナツミはふうっとため息をついた。「わかってるよ。でも、みんなでやれば楽しいじゃない。」En: Natsumi sighed. "I get it. But isn't it fun if we all do it together?"Ja: その瞬間、家の中の雰囲気が一気に変わった。ナツミの言葉にハルトはハッとした。En: In that instant, the atmosphere inside the house changed dramatically. Haruto was struck by Natsumi's words.Ja: 一人で全部やる必要はないんだ、と彼は気づいた。En: He realized that he didn't have to do everything by himself.Ja: 「じゃあ、みんなで役割を決めようか。」ハルトはやさしく言った。En: "Okay, let's assign roles to everyone," Haruto said gently.Ja: アイコは喜んでリストを作り始めた。「私は道具を用意するね。ハルト兄さんは競技のチェック。ナツミは飾り付けをお願いね。」En: Aiko happily started making a list. "I'll prepare the equipment. Haruto, you can check the sports events. Natsumi, can you take care of the decorations?"Ja: 「わかった！」とナツミは元気よく答えた。En: "Got it!" Natsumi responded energetically.Ja: 彼女は飾り付けが得意だったが、実は失敗が怖かった。En: She was good at decorating, but in truth, she was afraid of failing.Ja: しかし、この時は兄弟の絆を信じることにした。En: However, this time she decided to trust in their sibling bond.Ja: 分担作業を始めた三人は、次第にそれぞれの責任をしっかり果たした。En: As the three of them began their respective tasks, they each fulfilled their responsibilities well.Ja: ハルトも今度はナツミの手助けを信頼し、アイコは指示をきちんと出していた。En: Haruto, now trusting Natsumi's assistance, and Aiko, giving clear instructions.Ja: その日が終わる頃、家の中は運動会のための色とりどりの飾りで輝いていた。En: By the end of the day, the house was adorned with colorful decorations for the sports festival.Ja: 「お疲れ様、みんな。この調子で運動会も成功させよう！」とハルトは微笑んだ。En: "Great job, everyone. Let's make the sports festival a success!" Haruto said with a smile.Ja: そしてお盆の夜、祖父の遺影の前に家族全員が集まり、灯籠を送り出した。En: On the night of Obon, the entire family gathered in front of their grandfather's portrait and sent off lanterns.Ja: ハルトは心から感謝し、祖父に心の中で約束をした。「じいちゃん、一緒に頑張ったよ。」En: Haruto, with sincere gratitude, made a promise to his grandfather in his heart, "Grandpa, we worked hard together."Ja: 結果として、運動会は大成功に終わった。En: As a result, the sports festival ended in great success.Ja: 三人の兄弟は初めてのように協力し合い、信頼し合った。En: For the first time, the three siblings cooperated and trusted each other.Ja: ハルトは一人で抱え込まず、チームワークの大切さを学んだ。En: Haruto learned the importance of teamwork instead of carrying the burden alone.Ja: アイコは指導力を発揮し、ナツミは失敗を恐れずに責任感を持って取り組んだ。En: Aiko demonstrated leadership, and Natsumi undertook her duties with responsibility, unafraid of failure.Ja: 夏の終わり、家はもう一度平和を取り戻し、兄弟は新しい絆を感じた。En: At the end of summer, peace returned to their home once again, and the siblings felt a new bond between them. Vocabulary Words:buzzed: 鳴き声が響くcicadas: セミbreeze: 風siblings: 兄弟responsibilities: 責任honor: 尊重するlate: 亡くなったconcern: 心配hassle: 面倒dramatically: 一気にassign: 割り当てるdecorations: 飾り付けenergetically: 元気よくtruth: 実はassistance: 手助けinstructions: 指示adorned: 飾られたportrait: 遺影lanterns: 灯籠gratitude: 感謝burden: 負担undertake: 取り組むresponsibility: 責任感unafraid: 恐れずpeace: 平和festival: 祭りclear: 明確joyfully: 楽しそうにcoordination: 協力fulfilled: 果たす

Fluent Fiction - Japanese: Mystery & Tradition: Friends Unite in Mt. Fuji's Enchanted Forest Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.org/mystery-tradition-friends-unite-in-mt-fujis-enchanted-forest Story Transcript:Ja: 夏の日差しがちょうどいい、富士山の静かな森。En: A Quiet Forest at the Foot of Mt. FujiJa: そこに学校の夏のキャンプで来た子供たちがいました。En: In the peaceful forest of Mt. Fuji, where the summer sun shines just right, there were children who had come for their school's summer camp.Ja: ソラ、ユキとタクミです。En: Sora, Yuki, and Takumi.Ja: ソラは自然が大好きな恥ずかしがり屋の学生です。En: Sora is a shy student who loves nature.Ja: ユキは元気いっぱいの友達で、伝統を大切にしています。En: Yuki is an energetic friend who values tradition.Ja: タクミは新しい転校生ですが、地域のことをよく知っています。En: Takumi is a new transfer student but knows a lot about the local area.Ja: 「みんなの前で質問するのが怖いな…」とソラは思いました。En: "I'm scared to ask questions in front of everyone..." Sora thought.Ja: でも、彼女は生物の先生を驚かせるために、地元の動植物についてもっと学びたいと強く思っています。En: However, she has a strong desire to learn more about the local plants and animals to impress her biology teacher.Ja: ユキは、みんなが楽しくキャンプし、盆の意味を学べるようにしたいと思っています。En: Yuki wants everyone to enjoy the camp and learn the meaning of Obon.Ja: しかし、突然の雨でみんなの気持ちは下がりました。En: However, a sudden rain dampened everyone's spirits.Ja: 「雨が上がるまで、私が伝統的なお話をしよう」とユキは決めました。En: "Until the rain stops, I'll tell a traditional story," Yuki decided.Ja: タクミは特別な植物を探しています。En: Takumi is looking for a special plant.Ja: その植物は家族の伝説に関わっていると言います。En: He says this plant is related to a family legend.Ja: しかし、みんなはその植物の存在を疑っていました。En: However, everyone doubted the existence of such a plant.Ja: 「本当にそんな植物があるの？」とユキが尋ねました。En: "Does that plant really exist?" Yuki asked.Ja: ある日、ソラは決心し、タクミに勇気を出して聞きました。「その特別な植物について教えてくれませんか？」En: One day, Sora made up her mind and bravely asked Takumi, "Could you tell me about that special plant?"Ja: タクミは少し躊躇しましたが、最終的にソラとユキに家族の秘密を共有することにしました。En: Takumi hesitated a bit but eventually decided to share his family's secret with Sora and Yuki.Ja: 「実は、その植物はこの森の奥深くにあるんだ。でも、探すのが難しい」とタクミは説明しました。En: "Actually, the plant is deep in this forest. But it's difficult to find," Takumi explained.Ja: 3人は一緒に探しに行くことにしました。En: The three of them decided to search for it together.Ja: 森の中は湿っていて、滑りやすい道が続きます。En: The forest was damp, and the path was slippery.Ja: 厚い下草をかき分けながら、3人は前に進みました。En: As they pushed through the thick underbrush, the three advanced forward.Ja: 険しい道でしたが、お互いを助け合いながら進みました。En: The path was steep, but they helped each other along the way.Ja: ついに、その特別な植物を見つけました。En: Finally, they found the special plant.Ja: 「これだ！」とタクミが叫びました。En: "This is it!" Takumi shouted.Ja: ソラはすぐに植物の特徴を書き留めました。En: Sora quickly recorded the plant's characteristics.Ja: 先生に見せれば、きっと驚かれるでしょう。En: The teacher would surely be surprised.Ja: そして、タクミの家族の伝説も確認できました。En: And Takumi's family legend was confirmed.Ja: その後、雨は止み、3人はキャンプに戻りました。En: After that, the rain stopped, and the three returned to the camp.Ja: 盆の祭りが始まりました。En: The Obon festival began.Ja: ランタンや伝統的な飾りで森は光り輝きました。En: The forest glowed with lanterns and traditional decorations.Ja: みんなで楽しい時間を過ごしました。En: Everyone had a great time together.Ja: ソラは自分に自信がつき、友達と一緒に学ぶことの大切さを知りました。En: Sora gained confidence and learned the importance of learning with friends.Ja: ユキは自然や友達の目標に対する感謝の気持ちを深めました。En: Yuki deepened her appreciation for nature and her friends' goals.Ja: タクミは知識や伝統を共有することの重要性を感じ、仲間を得たことに喜びを感じました。En: Takumi felt the importance of sharing knowledge and traditions and was happy to have gained friends.Ja: 富士山の静かな森でのキャンプは、彼らにとって忘れられない経験となりました。En: The camp in the quiet forest of Mt. Fuji became an unforgettable experience for them. Vocabulary Words:peaceful: 静かなshy: 恥ずかしがり屋energetic: 元気いっぱいtradition: 伝統transfer student: 転校生desire: 思いimpress: 驚かせるsudden: 突然spirits: 気持ちdampened: 下がりましたhesitated: 躊躇しましたunderbrush: 下草advanced: 進みましたsteep: 険しいslippery: 滑りやすいrecorded: 書き留めましたcharacteristics: 特徴lanterns: ランタンappreciation: 感謝の気持ちlocal: 地元glowed: 光り輝きましたconfidence: 自信doubted: 疑っていましたspecial: 特別なlegend: 伝説forest: 森slippery: 滑りやすいtraditional: 伝統的なfestival: 祭りknowledge: 知識

In Orange County, officials are demanding a Huntington Beach nonprofit refund more than 2 million dollars of taxpayer money. California sea lions have started to fall ill, and domoic acid may be to blame once again. And we go to the San Fernando Valley to celebrate the Japanese festival Obon. Plus, more.Support The L.A. Report by donating at LAist.com/join and by visiting https://laist.com.Support the show: https://laist.com

Travail ou vacances, où que vous soyez, installez-vous et découvrez ce que dit le kyûreki de cette période de l'année si particulière. Nous allons y entendre chanter les cigales d'automne que l'on appelle Higurashi (ひぐらし), et nous allons également parler des hanabi, les feux d'artifices incontournables de l'été japonais. Nous allons aussi évoquer Obon, la fête des morts, ainsi que Nagori, cette mélancolie souvent associée à la fin du mois d'août. Enfin, nous allons aussi cuisiner des petit délices d'été, les mizu manju.Hébergé par Ausha. Visitez ausha.co/politique-de-confidentialite pour plus d'informations.

Fluent Fiction - Japanese: From Rivals to Partners: A Culinary Festival Tale Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.org/from-rivals-to-partners-a-culinary-festival-tale Story Transcript:Ja: 京の活気あふれる市場には、灯籠が美しくかかり、夏の空気には祭りの音楽と笑い声が響いていました。En: In the vibrant market of Kyoto, lanterns hung beautifully, and the sounds of festival music and laughter echoed through the summer air.Ja: 平安時代の真っ只中、京都の市場ではお盆祭りが盛大に開かれていました。En: During the height of the Heian period, the Obon festival was being grandly celebrated in Kyoto's market.Ja: 市場の中ほどにある二つの屋台には、二人の若者が忙しく働いていました。En: In the middle of the market, two stalls were bustling with activity, where two young people were busy at work.Ja: 一人は笑顔が魅力的なエミコ、もう一人は競争心に燃えるヒロシでした。En: One was Emiko with her charming smile, and the other was Hiroshi, driven by competition.Ja: エミコは家族の伝統料理を売っていました。En: Emiko was selling her family's traditional dishes.Ja: 彼女の屋台には特別な香辛料を使った料理が並んでいます。En: Her stall showcased dishes made with special spices.Ja: エミコはもっと多くの客を引きつけ、家族の料理を広めようと思っていました。En: Emiko aimed to attract more customers and spread her family's cuisine.Ja: 一方、ヒロシはカラフルな装飾を施した屋台で、大声で呼び込みをしていました。En: Meanwhile, Hiroshi, with his colorfully decorated stall, was loudly calling out to passersby.Ja: 彼は市場で一番の売上を目指し、自分の家族の料理が一番であることを証明したかったのです。En: He aimed to achieve the highest sales in the market and prove that his family's dishes were the best.Ja: しかし、エミコとヒロシの目標は同じ客たちを競い合うことでした。En: However, Emiko and Hiroshi found themselves competing for the same customers.Ja: エミコは新しい秘伝の調味料を加えた料理を作り始めました。En: Emiko began to create dishes with a new secret seasoning.Ja: それに対して、ヒロシは無料の試食を提供し、さらに目立つように屋台を装飾しました。En: In response, Hiroshi offered free samples and made his stall even more eye-catching with decorations.Ja: 祭りが進むにつれ、二人の屋台にはどんどん人が集まってきました。En: As the festival progressed, more and more people gathered around their stalls.Ja: エミコの料理の香りが人々を引きつけ、ヒロシの試食と派手な装飾が注目を集めました。En: The aroma of Emiko's dishes attracted people, while Hiroshi's samples and flashy decorations drew attention.Ja: 市場はますます賑やかになり、エミコとヒロシの屋台は大混雑となりました。En: The market grew increasingly lively, and Emiko and Hiroshi's stalls became extremely crowded.Ja: お祭りの絶頂で、両方の屋台には行列ができ、顧客対応に追われました。En: At the peak of the festival, both stalls had long lines and were swamped with customers.Ja: 汗をかきながら働くエミコとヒロシは、一瞬の間だけ目が合いました。En: Sweating as they worked, Emiko and Hiroshi's eyes met for a split second.Ja: その瞬間、互いの努力と技術を認め合いました。En: In that moment, they acknowledged each other's efforts and skills.Ja: 「一緒にやってみませんか？」エミコは息を切らしながらヒロシに問いかけました。En: “Want to try working together?” Emiko asked, breathless.Ja: 「それがいいかもしれませんね。」ヒロシも微笑みながら答えました。En: “That might be a good idea,” Hiroshi replied with a smile.Ja: 二人は力を合わせ、エミコの秘伝の調味料とヒロシの華やかなプレゼンテーションを融合させました。En: The two joined forces, combining Emiko's secret seasoning with Hiroshi's vibrant presentation.Ja: 結果として、二人の屋台はさらに多くの客を引き寄せ、大成功を収めました。En: As a result, their stall attracted even more customers and became a massive success.Ja: 祭りが終わると、エミコとヒロシは並んで座り、満足感に浸りました。En: When the festival ended, Emiko and Hiroshi sat side by side, basking in satisfaction.Ja: 「競争もいいけど、協力はもっと素晴らしいです」とエミコが言いました。En: “Competition is good, but collaboration is even more wonderful,” Emiko said.Ja: 「そうだね。二人で一緒に成功するのは、もっと楽しい」とヒロシは頷きました。En: “Yeah, succeeding together is much more fun,” Hiroshi nodded.Ja: こうして、エミコとヒロシは競争から協力へと移行し、お互いの技術を生かした新たな友好関係を築きました。En: Thus, Emiko and Hiroshi transitioned from rivals to partners, forging a new friendship that leveraged both their skills.Ja: 市場の灯籠が消え、夏の夜空に星が輝く中、二人は心温まる結末を迎えました。En: As the market's lanterns went out and the stars sparkled in the summer night sky, the two enjoyed a heartwarming conclusion. Vocabulary Words:vibrant: 活気あふれるlanterns: 灯籠echoed: 響いていましたbustling: 忙しくcompetition: 競争心charming: 魅力的spices: 香辛料aimed: 目指しcolorfully: カラフルなpassersby: 客prove: 証明seasoning: 調味料samples: 試食eye-catching: 目立つdecorations: 装飾aroma: 香りflashy: 派手なlively: 賑やかswamped: 大混雑basking: 満足感に浸りますacknowledged: 認め合いましたcollaboration: 協力presentation: プレゼンテーションmassive: 大satisfaction: 満足感transitioned: 移行しましたpartners: 協力forging: 築きましたsparkled: 輝くconclusion: 結末

Fluent Fiction - Japanese: Summer Confessions: Love Blooms Under the Festival Lanterns Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.org/summer-confessions-love-blooms-under-the-festival-lanterns Story Transcript:Ja: ショッピングモールは夏の午後、賑やかでした。En: The shopping mall was bustling on this summer afternoon.Ja: ところどころに飾られた色とりどりのちょうちんが、祭りの音楽に合わせて揺れています。En: Colorful lanterns decorated here and there swayed in time with the festival music.Ja: ハルとは、子供のころからの友達、ユイと一緒に、オボン祭りのための浴衣を探していました。En: Haruto was looking for a yukata for the Obon festival with his childhood friend, Yui.Ja: 「ハルと、どの色が好き？」ユイが明るく尋ねます。En: "Haruto, which color do you like?" Yui asked brightly.Ja: ハルとは、照れくさそうに回りを見回し、「えーと、青かな」と答えました。En: Haruto glanced around shyly and responded, "Uh, maybe blue."Ja: ユイは「青、いいね！」と笑顔でヒントをくれます。En: Yui smiled and said, "Blue is nice!"Ja: ハルとは、毎年のオボン祭りを楽しみにしていましたが、今年は特別でした。En: Haruto had always looked forward to the Obon festival each year, but this year was special.Ja: ユイに自分の気持ちを伝えたいと思っていたからです。En: He wanted to express his feelings to Yui.Ja: しかし、どの浴衣が彼女に似合うと思っても、選択肢が多すぎて迷っていました。En: However, with so many options, he was having trouble deciding which yukata would suit her best.Ja: 「ユイ、僕…ちょっと選ぶの手伝ってくれない？」ハルとは勇気を出して頼みました。En: "Yui, could you help me pick one?" Haruto mustered the courage to ask.Ja: ユイは「もちろん、任せて！」と喜んで応じました。En: Yui cheerfully agreed, "Of course, leave it to me!"Ja: そして、彼女は色々な浴衣を選んで試着してみせました。En: She began selecting and trying on various yukatas to show Haruto.Ja: ある浴衣を着たユイが、ハルとに振り向き、「これ、どう？」と尋ねました。En: Wearing one of the yukatas, Yui turned to Haruto and asked, "How about this?"Ja: ハルとはその美しい姿に息を呑み、「すごく似合ってる」と答えました。En: Breathless at her beauty, Haruto replied, "It suits you very well."Ja: ユイはくるりと回って見せ、「本当？ありがとう！」と嬉しそうに笑いました。En: Yui spun around happily and said, "Really? Thank you!"Ja: その瞬間、ハルとは心臓が早くなったのを感じました。En: At that moment, Haruto felt his heart race.Ja: この瞬間を逃したくなくて、勇気を振り絞り、「ユイ、僕、君に言いたいことがあるんだ」と言いました。En: Not wanting to miss the opportunity, he gathered his courage and said, "Yui, there's something I want to tell you."Ja: ユイは驚いた顔をしながらも、「なに？」と優しく問いかけました。En: Yui looked surprised but gently asked, "What is it?"Ja: ハルとは深呼吸し、「実は…僕、ずっと君のことが好きだった」と告白しました。En: Haruto took a deep breath and confessed, "Actually... I've liked you for a long time."Ja: 一瞬、静寂が訪れ、ハルとは不安になりました。En: For a moment, there was silence, and Haruto felt anxious.Ja: しかし、ユイは微笑み、「私も、ハルとが好きだったよ」と答えました。En: But then Yui smiled and said, "I like you too, Haruto."Ja: 二人はその場で抱き合い、心が通じ合った瞬間を喜びました。En: The two embraced, celebrating the moment their feelings connected.Ja: ハルとはその後、自分に自信を持つようになり、ユイとの関係もより深まり、素敵な夏の思い出となりました。En: Afterward, Haruto became more confident, and his relationship with Yui deepened, creating a beautiful summer memory.Ja: オボン祭りの夜、二人は手をつないで、笑顔でちょうちんの光の中を歩いていました。En: On the night of the Obon festival, they walked hand in hand, smiling amidst the glow of the lanterns.Ja: 彼らの友情は、素敵な恋愛へと変わり、新たな章が始まりました。En: Their friendship blossomed into a wonderful romance, marking the beginning of a new chapter.Ja: ショッピングモールの明かりが、この幸せな二人を祝福しているかのようでした。En: It felt as if the lights of the shopping mall were blessing the happy couple. Vocabulary Words:bustling: 賑やかfestival: 祭りlantern: ちょうちんyukata: 浴衣childhood friend: 子供のころからの友達brightly: 明るくshyly: 照れくさそうにexpress: 伝えるfeelings: 気持ちsuits: 似合うmustered: 勇気を出してtrying on: 試着breathless: 息を呑むcourage: 勇気confessed: 告白anxious: 不安embraced: 抱き合うdeepen: 深まるblossomed: 変わりromance: 恋愛chapter: 章glow: 光special: 特別selecting: 選んでswayed: 揺れるoption: 選択肢cheerfully: 喜んでmoment: 瞬間relationship: 関係happily: 嬉しそうに

Fluent Fiction - Japanese: Unexpected Performances: A Prelude to Adventure at Narita Airport Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.org/unexpected-performances-a-prelude-to-adventure-at-narita-airport Story Transcript:Ja: 夏の明るい日差しが成田国際空港の大きな窓から差し込んでいた。En: Bright summer sunlight streamed through the large windows of Narita International Airport.Ja: 空港はお盆の季節で、たくさんの旅行者でにぎわっていた。En: The airport was bustling with many travelers as it was the Obon season.Ja: 大きなデジタルスクリーンにはフライト情報とゲートの案内が表示されていた。En: A huge digital screen displayed flight information and gate directions.Ja: 花とカイトは空港の引き渡しエリアにいた。En: Hana and Kaito were in the airport's drop-off area.Ja: 花は、計画的なオフィスワーカーで、この旅行が完璧であることを望んでいた。En: Hana, a meticulous office worker, wanted this trip to be perfect.Ja: カイトは、のんびりとした性格で、どんな状況にも柔軟に対応する友人であった。En: Kaito, on the other hand, was laid-back and flexible in any situation.Ja: ところが、彼らは間違ったゲートに案内されてしまった。En: However, they had been directed to the wrong gate.Ja: 「これ、本当に大丈夫？En: "Are we really okay?"Ja: 」と花は不安そうに尋ねた。En: Hana asked anxiously.Ja: 「大丈夫だよ、花。En: "It'll be fine, Hana.Ja: ちょっと聞いてみよう」とカイトが微笑んだ。En: Let's just ask someone," Kaito smiled reassuringly.Ja: 二人は近くにいた空港スタッフに尋ねたが、そのスタッフも混乱しているようだった。En: They approached a nearby airport staff member, but that person seemed just as confused.Ja: 最終的に、彼らは急いで正しいゲートを探し始めた。En: Ultimately, they started hurrying to find the correct gate.Ja: しかし、その途中で大きな舞台と騒がしいイベントに遭遇した。En: On their way, they stumbled upon a big stage with a noisy event happening.Ja: そこで、まるで有名人のように見える人々がステージに上がってパフォーマンスをしていた。En: Some people who looked like celebrities were performing on the stage.Ja: 「なんだこれ？En: "What is this?"Ja: 」と花が驚いた。En: Hana exclaimed in surprise.Ja: 「ちょっと見てみようよ」とカイトが提案した。En: "Let's check it out," Kaito suggested.Ja: 彼らが近づくと、周りの人々が花とカイトを注目し始めた。En: As they got closer, people around them began to take notice of Hana and Kaito.Ja: 「次のパフォーマーはこの二人です！En: "The next performers are these two!"Ja: 」と司会者が大声で宣言した。En: the host loudly announced.Ja: 「え、私たち？En: "What, us?!"Ja: 」と花が驚いたが、カイトは笑顔で舞台に上がった。En: Hana was stunned, but Kaito climbed the stage with a smile.Ja: 「まあ、せっかくだから楽しんでみようよ」と言いながら。En: "Well, since we're here, let's have some fun," he said.Ja: 二人は即興でダンスを踊り、その様子は観客に大好評だった。En: They performed an impromptu dance, which was received enthusiastically by the audience.Ja: 花は、子供の頃の夢を思い出し、とても楽しんだ。En: Hana remembered her childhood dreams and thoroughly enjoyed herself.Ja: ステージから降りた後、彼らは時計を見て慌てた。En: After stepping off the stage, they checked the time and panicked.Ja: 「急がないと！En: "We need to hurry!"Ja: 」と花が言い、二人は再び空港内を疾走した。En: Hana said, and they dashed through the airport again.Ja: ギリギリで正しいゲートに到着し、二人は息を切らしながらも無事に飛行機に乗り込んだ。En: They managed to reach the correct gate just in time, boarding the plane while gasping for breath.Ja: 座席に着くと、花はカイトに向かって笑顔を見せた。En: Sitting in their seats, Hana smiled at Kaito.Ja: 「結局、楽しかったね。En: "In the end, it was fun."Ja: 」「そうだね、たまにはこういうハプニングもいいもんだ」とカイトが言った。En: "Yeah, sometimes these unexpected events can be nice," Kaito replied.Ja: こうして、花は完璧であることにこだわらず、時には物事を自然に任せることの大切さを学んだ。En: In this way, Hana learned not to insist on perfection and to sometimes let things take their natural course.Ja: 彼女の心は楽になり、これからの旅行も楽しみになった。En: Her heart felt lighter, and she looked forward to the upcoming trip with enthusiasm.Ja: 飛行機はゆっくりと離陸し、二人の新しい冒険が始まった。En: The plane took off slowly, and their new adventure began. Vocabulary Words:streamed: 差し込んでいたbustling: にぎわっていたtravelers: 旅行者drop-off area: 引き渡しエリアmeticulous: 計画的なlaid-back: のんびりとした性格wrong gate: 間違ったゲートanxiously: 不安そうにreassuringly: 微笑んだconfused: 混乱しているhurrying: 急いでbig stage: 大きな舞台noisy: 騒がしいcelebrities: 有名人performing: パフォーマンスをしていたimpromptu: 即興でenthusiastically: 大好評childhood dreams: 子供の頃の夢thoroughly enjoyed: とても楽しんだstepping off: 降りた後panicked: 慌てたdashed: 疾走したgasping for breath: 息を切らしながらboarding: 飛行機に乗り込んだunexpected events: ハプニングinsist on perfection: 完璧であることにこだわらずnatural course: 自然に任せることupcoming trip: これからの旅行adventure: 冒険began: 始まった

Fluent Fiction - Japanese: Team Triumphs and Love Blossoms Under the Obon Festival Sky Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.org/team-triumphs-and-love-blossoms-under-the-obon-festival-sky Story Transcript:Ja: 高層ビルの27階には、大きな窓から広がる素晴らしい都市の景色が見えるオフィスがあります。En: On the 27th floor of a high-rise building, there is an office with a magnificent view of the city through its large windows.Ja: 夏の夕陽が街を温かく染め、遠くに輝くお盆祭りの明かりが見えます。En: The summer sunset warms the city, and in the distance, you can see the sparkling lights of the Obon festival.Ja: このオフィスでは、プロジェクトチームが重要な締め切りに向けて奮闘していました。En: In this office, a project team was working hard towards an important deadline.Ja: アキラはプロジェクトマネージャーで、従業員をより良い方向に導く才能がありました。En: Akira is the project manager, with a talent for leading his employees in a better direction.Ja: でも、彼には誰にも知られたくない秘密がありました。En: However, he had a secret that he didn't want anyone to know.Ja: そう、日本舞踊が大好きなのです。En: Yes, he loved Japanese dance.Ja: 彼は締め切りが近づく中、チームの士気を保ちながらプロジェクトを完成させるために苦労していました。En: As the deadline approached, he struggled to keep the team's morale high and complete the project.Ja: グラフィックデザイナーのユミは、クリエイティブな才能を持ちながらも、仕事の量に押しつぶされそうになっていました。En: Yumi, a graphic designer, had a creative talent but was feeling overwhelmed by the workload.Ja: 彼女はいつも旅行に行きたいという夢を持っていましたが、忙しさのためにその夢を後回しにしていました。En: She always dreamed of traveling, but her busyness made her put that dream on hold.Ja: そして、ソフトウェア開発者のケンジは、実はユミに密かに恋心を抱いていました。En: Then there was Kenji, the software developer, who secretly had a crush on Yumi.Ja: 彼は仕事を効率的に進めつつ、お盆祭りの前にユミに告白する勇気を持ちたいと思っていました。En: He wanted to stay efficient with his work and muster the courage to confess to Yumi before the Obon festival.Ja: しかし、ある日、大きな技術的問題が発生しました。En: However, one day a major technical issue arose.Ja: システムが突然ダウンし、プロジェクトの進行が遅れてしまいました。En: The system suddenly went down, causing a delay in the project's progress.Ja: 締め切りは迫っており、チーム全員に緊張が走りました。En: With the deadline looming, tension ran high among the team.Ja: アキラは一晩中オフィスに残り、問題を解決することを決意しました。En: Akira decided to stay in the office all night to solve the problem.Ja: ユミは、お盆祭りを諦めてチームを手伝うことを考えましたが、仕事量に疲れている自分を感じていました。En: Yumi considered giving up the Obon festival to help the team, but she felt the exhaustion from her workload.Ja: ケンジは、問題解決に集中するか、お盆祭りでユミに告白するかで悩んでいました。En: Kenji was torn between focusing on solving the problem and confessing to Yumi at the Obon festival.Ja: ついに、ケンジは心を決めました。En: Finally, Kenji made up his mind.Ja: 「今しかない」と。En: "It's now or never," he thought.Ja: 混乱の中、彼はユミに近づきました。En: Amid the chaos, he approached Yumi.Ja: 「ユミさん、少し話せますか？En: "Yumi, can we talk for a moment?"Ja: 」ユミは驚いて顔を上げました。En: Yumi looked up in surprise.Ja: 「はい、ケンジさん？En: "Yes, Kenji?"Ja: 」「実は、ずっと言いたかったんです。En: "The truth is, I've always wanted to tell you.Ja: 僕は、ずっとユミさんが好きでした。En: I've had a crush on you for a long time."Ja: 」ケンジの告白は、チームの中に緊張感を走らせましたが、ユミの顔には微笑みが広がりました。En: Kenji's confession sent a wave of tension through the team, but a smile spread across Yumi's face.Ja: 「私も、ケンジさんが好きです。En: "I like you too, Kenji.Ja: でも、今はこのプロジェクトを終わらせましょう。En: But for now, let's finish this project."Ja: 」その瞬間、アキラが声を上げました。En: At that moment, Akira's voice rang out.Ja: 「みんな、解決策が見つかった！En: "Everyone, I found a solution!"Ja: 」チームの顔には安堵の表情が広がり、一丸となって最後の仕上げに取り組みました。En: Relief spread across the team's faces as they came together to complete the final push.Ja: 締め切り直前、チームは無事にプロジェクトを完成させました。En: Just before the deadline, the team successfully finished the project.Ja: 皆で歓声を上げ、オフィスは喜びの声に包まれました。En: They all cheered, and the office was filled with joyous voices.Ja: その流れの中で、ユミはケンジの手を取って「お盆祭りに行きましょう」と言いました。En: In that flow, Yumi took Kenji's hand and said, "Let's go to the Obon festival."Ja: アキラはチームを見渡し、心の中で大切な教訓を感じました。En: Akira looked around at the team and felt an important lesson in his heart.Ja: 「仕事と自分の情熱をバランスよく持つことが大切だな。En: "It's important to balance work with your own passions."Ja: 」彼は、お盆祭りで伝統舞踊の招待を受け、笑顔でその場を楽しむことを決意しました。En: He decided to enjoy the festival, having been invited to perform a traditional dance, with a smile.Ja: こうして、チームはお盆祭りの夜空の下、新しいステップを踏み出しました。En: Thus, under the night sky of the Obon festival, the team took new steps forward.Ja: アキラは舞踊に、ユミとケンジは新しい愛に。En: Akira to his dance, and Yumi and Kenji to their budding love.Ja: そして、皆が自分の夢や目標に向かって歩み始めました。En: And everyone began to move towards their own dreams and goals. Vocabulary Words:magnificent: 素晴らしいsparkling: 輝くdeadline: 締め切りmorale: 士気overwhelmed: 押しつぶされそうになってbusyness: 忙しさmuster: 奮い起こすtechnical: 技術的issue: 問題delay: 遅れlooming: 迫ってtension: 緊張exhaustion: 疲れchaos: 混乱confession: 告白solution: 解決策relief: 安堵cheered: 歓声を上げbalance: バランスpassions: 情熱budding: 新しいsteps: ステップtalent: 才能leading: 導くsecret: 秘密job: 仕事view: 景色developer: 開発者crush: 恋心focused: 集中

Fluent Fiction - Japanese: Unexpected Surprises: Yuki's Adventure at the Summer Market Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.org/unexpected-surprises-yukis-adventure-at-the-summer-market Story Transcript:Ja: 夏の日、陽が差し込む市場は人でいっぱいだった。En: On a summer day, the market bathed in sunlight was crowded with people.Ja: 露天商たちは元気な声で商品をアピールしていた。En: Street vendors were energetically promoting their goods.Ja: ユキはその中にいました。En: Yuki was among them.Ja: 彼は会社員で、毎日の疲れをこの市場で癒していた。En: He was an office worker who soothed his daily fatigue with visits to this market.Ja: 今日は何か特別だった。En: Today, however, felt special.Ja: もうすぐお盆祭りが近づいていたのだ。En: The Obon festival was approaching.Ja: ユキは友達を驚かせるために、最高の材料で料理を作りたかった。En: Yuki wanted to surprise his friends by cooking with the best ingredients.Ja: 「新鮮な野菜を買わなくちゃ」と自分に言い聞かせながら、ユキは市場を歩き始めた。En: "I need to buy fresh vegetables," he told himself as he began walking through the market.Ja: 最初の露店はトマト売りの屋台だった。En: The first stand he encountered was a tomato vendor's stall.Ja: 露店商は大きな帽子を被ってユキに笑顔を見せた。En: The vendor, wearing a large hat, greeted Yuki with a smile.Ja: 「いかが？このトマト、甘くておいしいよ！」En: "How about these? These tomatoes are sweet and delicious!"Ja: その声はまるでオレンジのように明るかった。En: The vendor's voice was as bright as the color orange.Ja: ユキは一瞬唖然としたが、すぐに思い出した。En: Yuki was momentarily taken aback but quickly gathered himself.Ja: 「あ、はい。トマトを少し見せてください」と答えた。En: "Oh, yes. Could you show me some tomatoes?" he replied.Ja: しかし、そこで何かおかしなことが起こった。En: But something strange happened next.Ja: その隣の屋台で、別の露店商が奇妙なダンスを始めた。En: At the adjacent stall, another vendor started a peculiar dance.Ja: 彼は大きなパンを両手に持ち、まるでそれがマラカスのように振っていた。En: Holding large loaves of bread in both hands, he shook them as if they were maracas.Ja: ユキはびっくりして、そちらを見てしまった。En: Yuki was startled and couldn't help but watch.Ja: 「な、なんだあれ？」と呟いた。En: "W-what is that?" he muttered.Ja: やっと気を取り直し、トマトの屋台に戻ったが、露店商はすでに他の客と話していた。En: Regaining his composure, Yuki returned to the tomato stall, but the vendor was already busy with another customer.Ja: ユキは肩を落としながら次の屋台に向かった。今度はスイカ売りだった。En: Disappointed, Yuki moved on to the next stall, which was selling watermelons.Ja: 露店商は派手な衣装を身にまとい、笛を吹いていた。En: The vendor was dressed extravagantly and playing a flute.Ja: その光景はまるでサーカスだった。ユキはまたまた集中できなかった。En: The scene looked like a circus, making it hard for Yuki to focus again.Ja: 「このままじゃダメだ！」とユキは自分を鼓舞し、もう一度トマトを探し始めた。En: "This won't do!" Yuki told himself, determined to find the tomatoes.Ja: やっと静かな屋台を見つけた。そこでお年寄りの女性が新鮮な野菜を売っていた。En: Finally, he found a quiet stall where an elderly woman was selling fresh vegetables.Ja: 「こんにちは、新鮮な野菜を買いたいです」とユキは丁寧に言った。En: "Hello, I'd like to buy some fresh vegetables," Yuki said politely.Ja: しかし、女性はニヤリと笑って言った。「まず、私の謎を解いてください。さもなければ売りません。」En: But the woman grinned and said, "First, solve my riddle. Otherwise, I won't sell to you."Ja: ユキは少し驚いた。でも、その笑顔に安心感を覚えた。En: Taken aback, Yuki nonetheless felt a sense of reassurance from her smile.Ja: 「いいでしょう。質問をお願いします。」と答えた。En: "Alright then. Please, ask your question," he replied.Ja: 「いつも朝にはあって、夜には消えます。これは何でしょう？」と女性が聞いた。En: "It's something that's always there in the morning and disappears by the evening. What is it?" the woman asked.Ja: ユキは考えた。En: Yuki thought hard.Ja: 何度も考え直して、ついに答えを見つけた。En: After going over it several times, he finally found the answer.Ja: 「それは影です！」En: "It's a shadow!"Ja: 女性は満足そうにうなずいて、「正解です。どうぞ、お好きな野菜を選んでください」と言った。En: The woman nodded with satisfaction and said, "Correct. Please, choose the vegetables you like."Ja: ユキは新鮮なトマト、ナス、ピーマンを手に入れた。En: Yuki got fresh tomatoes, eggplants, and bell peppers.Ja: その後、他の必要な食材も順調に集めることができた。En: After that, he smoothly gathered the rest of the ingredients he needed.Ja: お盆の日、ユキは友達を自宅に招き、特製の料理を振る舞った。En: On the day of Obon, Yuki invited his friends to his home and served his special dishes.Ja: 友達は皆、彼の料理に感激し、En: His friends were all impressed with his cooking.Ja: 「ユキ、すごいね！」と称賛した。En: "Yuki, you're amazing!" they praised.Ja: ユキは胸を張った。En: Yuki stood proud.Ja: 市場での経験を通じて、彼は集中力を保つことの大切さを学び、自信もつけることができたのだった。En: Through his experiences at the market, he learned the importance of maintaining focus and gained confidence.Ja: 満ち足りた気持ちと共に、夜空には花火が上がり、美しい夏の夜は静かに過ぎていった。En: With a feeling of fulfillment, fireworks lit up the night sky, and the beautiful summer night quietly passed by. Vocabulary Words:bathed: 差し込むvendor: 露天商energetically: 元気なsoothed: 癒していたfatigue: 疲れapproaching: 近づいていたingredients: 材料adjacent: 隣peculiar: 奇妙なextravagantly: 派手なcomposure: 気を取り直しcircus: サーカスfocus: 集中できなかったsolve: 解いてriddle: 謎disappears: 消えますreassurance: 安心感replied: 答えたsatisfaction: 満足そうsmoothly: 順調にinvited: 招きimpressed: 感激しpraised: 称賛したconfidence: 自信fulfillment: 満ち足りたfireworks: 花火vendors: 露天商たちextravagantly: 派手なwhispered: 呟いたdetermined: 自分を鼓舞し

The crew celebrated Obon (summer ghost festival) a little early this year with three horror films from Japan. Join us for Evil Dead Trap, Onibaba, and Tokyo Gore Police on this episode of Attack of the Killer Podcast! Listen & subscribe wherever you get your podcasts or go to http://www.aotkp.com Connect with the show: Become an Official Attacker: http://jointheattackers.com/ Visit our website: http://www.attackofthekillerpodcast.com/ Like us on https://www.facebook.com/attackofthekillerpodcast Follow us on https://twitter.com/AotKP Follow us on https://tiktok.com/@attackofthekiller  Follow us on https://www.instagram.com/attackofthekillerpodcast/ Follow us on https://www.threads.net/@attackofthekillerpodcast Subscribe on https://www.youtube.com/attackofthekillerpodcast Support the show at https://www.patreon.com/aotkp/posts Lastly, check out all the amazing shows at http://thepfpn.com

Fluent Fiction - Japanese: Healing at Mount Fuji: Siblings' Journey to Reconciliation Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.org/healing-at-mount-fuji-siblings-journey-to-reconciliation Story Transcript:Ja: 夏の明け方、雲の上に昇る朝日が、富士山の頂上を金色に染めた。En: At the dawn of summer, the rising sun above the clouds painted the summit of Mount Fuji in golden hues.Ja: 広志、あゆみ、そして雪の三人は、疲れた足を引きずりながらも頂上にたどり着いた。En: Hiroshi, Ayumi, and Yuki finally reached the summit, dragging their tired feet.Ja: 三人の息は荒く、汗が額から流れていた。En: Their breaths were heavy, and sweat streamed down their foreheads.Ja: 「ああ、すごい景色だね。」雪は息を切らしながらも笑顔を見せた。En: "Wow, what a view," Yuki said, smiling despite being out of breath.Ja: 広志も景色に見惚れながら、妹のあゆみを見た。あゆみは険しい表情のままだった。En: Hiroshi, captivated by the scenery, looked at his sister, Ayumi, whose expression remained stern.Ja: お盆休みを利用して久しぶりに会ったものの、二人の間にはまだわだかまりが残っていた。En: Despite meeting after a long time during the Obon holiday, there were still unresolved issues between them.Ja: 「ここから見る景色は、疲れを忘れさせるね。」広志は優しく言った。En: "The view from here makes you forget the fatigue," Hiroshi said gently.Ja: 「あんた、わかってないよね。」あゆみは広志を睨みつけた。「過去のことを簡単に忘れられるわけないだろう。」En: "You just don't get it, do you?" Ayumi glared at Hiroshi. "You can't just forget the past that easily."Ja: 広志は困った顔をした。「だからこそ、今日ここに来たんだ。家族として、もう一度やり直したいんだ。」En: Hiroshi wore a troubled expression. "That's exactly why we came here today. I want to start over as a family."Ja: 「あゆみちゃん、広志君も本気だよ。」雪が口を開いた。「二人とも、もう少し素直になれないかな。」En: "Ayumi-chan, Hiroshi-kun is serious," Yuki interjected. "Can't you both be a bit more honest with each other?"Ja: その瞬間、暗雲が広がってきた。雷鳴が遠くから聞こえ、風が強くなった。En: At that moment, dark clouds began to spread. Thunder rumbled in the distance, and the wind picked up.Ja: 「危ない、山小屋に避難しよう！」広志が叫んだ。En: "It's dangerous, let's take shelter in the mountain hut!" Hiroshi shouted.Ja: 三人は急いで小屋に向かった。風が強く、雨が降り出した。En: The three of them hurried towards the hut. The wind was strong, and it started to rain.Ja: 小屋にたどり着くと、三人は中で震えながら雨宿りをした。En: Once they reached the hut, they took shelter inside, trembling from the cold.Ja: 「この嵐、いつまで続くんだろう。」広志は不安そうに言った。En: "I wonder how long this storm will last," Hiroshi said anxiously.Ja: 「なんでこんな日に山に登るんだよ。」あゆみが苛立ちを隠せずに言った。En: "Why did we even decide to climb today?" Ayumi said, unable to hide her irritation.Ja: 「ごめん、俺が無理に誘ったから。」広志は肩を落とした。En: "I'm sorry, it's because I insisted," Hiroshi said, shoulders drooping.Ja: 「あんたが謝っても意味ないよ。」あゆみの声は震えていた。「全部、あんたのせいなんだから。」En: "Your apology doesn't change anything," Ayumi's voice quivered. "It's all your fault."Ja: 「わかってる。全部僕のせいだ。でも、あの時のことを乗り越えて、もう一度家族としてやり直したいんだ。」En: "I know. It's all my fault. But I want to overcome what happened back then and start over as a family."Ja: 雨音に混じって、長い沈黙が続いた。やがて、あゆみが口を開いた。En: Amidst the sound of rain, a long silence followed. Eventually, Ayumi spoke up.Ja: 「...わかったよ。広志、私も悪かった。ずっとあなたを責めていたけど、本当は私も怖かったんだ。」En: "...Alright. Hiroshi, I was wrong too. I've been blaming you all this time, but the truth is, I was scared too."Ja: 「ありがとう、あゆみ。わかってくれて。」広志は涙を浮かべた。「これからは一緒に頑張ろう。」En: "Thank you, Ayumi, for understanding," Hiroshi said, with tears in his eyes. "Let's work together from now on."Ja: 嵐が収まる頃、三人は頂上からの美しい景色を一緒に眺めた。En: As the storm subsided, the three of them looked out at the beautiful view from the summit together.Ja: 心の重荷が軽くなったように感じた。En: It felt as if a weight had been lifted from their hearts.Ja: 帰り道、広志とあゆみはそれぞれの気持ちを打ち明け、和解した。En: On the way back, Hiroshi and Ayumi opened up about their feelings and reconciled.Ja: 雪はそんな二人の背中を見守りながら、微笑んだが、自分の気持ちは胸の奥にしまったままだった。En: Yuki watched over the two of them with a smile, but kept her own feelings hidden deep inside.Ja: 富士山の頂上での出来事は、三人にとって新たなスタートとなった。En: The events at the summit of Mount Fuji marked a new beginning for the three of them.Ja: 家族の絆を取り戻し、彼らは共に新しい一歩を踏み出した。En: They regained their family bonds and together took a new step forward. Vocabulary Words:dawn: 明け方rising: 昇るsummit: 頂上hues: 色合いdragging: 引きずりforeheads: 額captivated: 見惚れstern: 険しいunresolved: わだかまりgently: 優しくglared: 睨みつけたtroubled: 困ったinterjected: 口を開いたspread: 広がってrumbled: 雷鳴shelter: 避難strong: 強くhut: 山小屋anxiously: 不安そうにirritation: 苛立ちdrooping: 肩を落としたquivered: 震えていたovercome: 乗り越えてamidst: 混じってsubsided: 収まるtrembling: 震えながらreconciled: 和解したmark: 示したbonds: 絆regained: 取り戻し

Fluent Fiction - Japanese: Unveiling Secrets of Angkor: Haruto and Aiko's Epic Journey Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.org/unveiling-secrets-of-angkor-haruto-and-aikos-epic-journey Story Transcript:Ja: 雲の間から太陽が顔を出し、アンコールワットの遺跡が輝いていました。En: The sun peeked out from between the clouds, illuminating the ruins of Angkor Wat.Ja: 夏の暑い空気が重く包み、歴史の重みを感じさせます。En: The heavy summer air conveyed the weight of history.Ja: 活気あふれる若い考古学者であるハルトと、子供の頃からの友人で歴史家のアイコは、その古代の謎に挑んでいました。En: Haruto, a lively young archaeologist, and Aiko, his childhood friend and historian, were tackling the mysteries of the ancient site.Ja: 「アイコ、この噂の財宝を見つけるなら今がチャンスだよ！」ハルトはその目を輝かせながら言いました。En: "Aiko, now's our chance to find this rumored treasure!" Haruto said, eyes gleaming with excitement.Ja: 「でも、ハルト、古代の罠がいっぱいあるかもしれない。気をつけて進もう。」アイコは心配そうに答えました。彼女の心には、過去の失敗が思い浮かびました。En: "But Haruto, there could be ancient traps everywhere. Let's proceed carefully," Aiko replied, worry evident in her voice. Memories of past failures flashed through her mind.Ja: 二人は石でできた通路を進みました。アイコは心の中で自問します。「あたし、本当に役に立っているのかな？」En: The pair advanced down the stone corridor. Aiko silently questioned herself, "Am I really being useful?"Ja: 途中、ハルトは床に奇妙な模様を見つけました。「これはパズルの一部かも！」彼は興奮気味に言いました。En: Along the way, Haruto noticed strange patterns on the floor. "This might be part of a puzzle!" he exclaimed excitedly.Ja: アイコは慎重にその模様を見ました。「うん、間違いないわ。でも、どこに続くんだろう？」En: Aiko examined the patterns cautiously. "Yes, you're right. But where does it lead?"Ja: 彼らは協力して模様を解きました。やがて、隠された扉が開きました。長い間忘れられていた部屋が姿を現しました。En: Together, they decoded the patterns. Eventually, a hidden door opened, revealing a long-forgotten room.Ja: 「行こう、宝はここに違いない！」ハルトは恐れずに前進しました。En: "Let's go! The treasure must be here!" Haruto pushed forward fearlessly.Ja: しかし、その部屋は罠だらけでした。床が崩れ、矢が飛び出しました。二人は危うくかわしながら進みました。En: But the room was filled with traps. The floor crumbled, and arrows shot out. The two narrowly dodged these dangers as they pressed on.Ja: 「注意して、ハルト！」アイコは叫びました。En: "Be careful, Haruto!" Aiko shouted.Ja: ハルトの勇気とアイコの注意力で、やがて彼らは部屋の中心にたどり着きました。そこには古代の宝物が輝いていました。En: Thanks to Haruto's courage and Aiko's caution, they finally reached the center of the room, where ancient treasures shone brightly.Ja: 「やった！見つけたぞ！」ハルトは歓喜に満ちて叫びました。En: "We did it! We found it!" Haruto shouted in elation.Ja: しかし、宝の中には一つの謎めいた遺物がありました。それは、二人の家族の歴史に関係するものでした。アイコはそれを手に取り、驚きと感動を感じました。En: Among the treasures was a mysterious artifact. It was connected to the history of both their families. Aiko picked it up, feeling a wave of surprise and emotion.Ja: 「これが…私たちの遺産の一部だったんだ。」彼女は静かに言いました。En: "This... this is part of our heritage," she said quietly.Ja: 二人はその遺物を持ち帰り、無事に遺跡を脱出しました。オボン祭りの夜、彼らはその発見を披露しました。En: They took the artifact and safely escaped the ruins. On the night of the Obon festival, they presented their discovery.Ja: ハルトはその自信を取り戻し、仲間たちからの尊敬を得ました。アイコもまた、自分の価値と能力に気づきました。En: Haruto regained his confidence and earned the respect of his peers. Aiko also realized her own worth and abilities.Ja: 「ありがとう、アイコ。一緒にこの冒険を乗り越えてよかった。」ハルトは微笑みながら言いました。En: "Thank you, Aiko. I'm glad we faced this adventure together," Haruto said with a smile.Ja: 「ううん、私こそ。もう自分に自信を持てるわ。」アイコも微笑み返しました。En: "No, thank you. I can finally believe in myself," Aiko smiled back.Ja: こうして、二人はそれぞれの心の中の宝物を見つけました。そして、新たな歴史の一ページを刻んだのでした。En: Thus, the two found the treasures within their hearts and wrote a new page in history. Vocabulary Words:peeked: 顔を出しilluminating: 輝いていましたruins: 遺跡conveyed: 包みtackling: 挑んでいましたrumored: 噂のtraps: 罠lively: 活気あふれるquestioned: 自問puzzle: パズルdecoded: 解きましたhidden: 隠されたcrumpled: 崩れdodged: かわしfearlessly: 恐れずにtreasures: 宝shone: 輝いていましたelation: 歓喜artifact: 遺物heritage: 遺産escaped: 脱出しましたpresented: 披露しましたconfidence: 自信peers: 仲間abilities: 能力faced: 乗り越えてsmile: 微笑みpage: 一ページhistory: 歴史advancement: 前進

A weekly magazine-style radio show featuring the voices and stories of Asians and Pacific Islanders from all corners of our community. The show is produced by a collective of media makers, deejays, and activists. Tonight's show Powerleegirls hosts Miko Lee & Jalena Keane-Lee highlight the annual Day of Remembrance. They speak with Chair Jeff Matsuoka and youth leader KC Mukai. APEX Express is a proud member of Asian Americans for Civil Rights & Equality – AACRE. APEX EXPRESS TRANSCRIPT 2/15/24 SHOW Day of Remembrance 2024: Carrying the Light for Justice – Finding Our Way Home Opening: [00:00:00] Apex Express Asian Pacific expression. Community and cultural coverage, music and calendar, new visions and voices, coming to you with an Asian Pacific Islander point of view. It's time to get on board the Apex Express. Jalena Keane-Lee: [00:00:34] Good evening. You're tuned in to Apex Express. We are bringing you an Asian and Asian American perspective from the Bay and around the world we're your hosts, Miko Lee and Jalena Keane-Lee, the PowerLeeGirls, a mother daughter team. Tonight we're focused on the annual Day of Remembrance. February 19th is a significant date for the Japanese American community. On this day in 1942, president Franklin D. Roosevelt signed executive order 9066, which gave the United States army the authority to remove civilians from their homes during World War 2. Over 120,000 Japanese Americans and 3,000 Japanese Latin Americans were forced into concentration camps scattered in desolate, remote regions of the country. No Japanese Americans or Latin Americans wherever charged of espionage or sabotage against the United States. Yet they were targeted, rounded up and imprisoned for years. Every February, the Japanese American community commemorates Executive Order 9066 as a reminder of the impact the incarceration experience has had on our families, our community and our country. During this present time of genocide in Palestine, it is critical to educate others on the fragility of civil liberties in times of crisis and the importance of remaining vigilant in protecting the rights and freedoms of all. Never again, means never again for anyone. Jalena Keane-Lee: [00:01:59] Next up, listen to “Kenji” by Fort minor, the band created by Linkin Park's Mike Shinoda. This is a song about Mike's father and his family that was incarcerated at Manzanar. SONG Jalena Keane-Lee: [00:05:42] That was Mike Shinoda's “Kenji” based upon his family story at Manzanar. Miko Lee: [00:05:47] Welcome Jeff Matsuoka, chair of the San Francisco Bay Area Organizing Committee of the Day of Remembrance. Welcome to Apex Express. Jeff Matsuoka: [00:05:56] Thank you very much, Miko. It's great to be here. Thanks for inviting me. Miko Lee: [00:05:59] For people that don't know, can you give an overview about what the Day of Remembrance is all about? Jeff Matsuoka: [00:06:07] Sure. Yes. The Day of Remembrance is an annual event that we've been holding actually now for 45 years. This would be our 45th Day of Remembrance event and really what it's commemorating is the signing of EO9066. This is an executive order signed by President Franklin Dela Roosevelt on February 19th, 1942. And essentially what this did was it essentially empowered the military authorities, the US Army authorities, to essentially evict all Japanese Americans living in what's called the West Coast Evacuation Zones. So once again, this is right after Pearl Harbor, and what what was happening was the government feared basically Japanese Americans as collaborators with, of course, the Japanese and of course, there's no evidence as it turns out that was true, but nonetheless what happened was all citizens are all really inhabitants of Japanese ancestry, whether they were citizens or not, were evicted from their homes on the West Coast and sent to concentration camps deep in the Midwest or certainly very far away from the coast. And they said it was for our own safety, but of course there are a lot of factors there that were probably beyond safety that caused all this to happen. Of course, there's a lot of racism and a lot of also discrimination against Japanese Americans. And the bombing of Pearl Harbor and, of course, the signing of Executive Order 9066 resulted in the evacuation of our community, and it served many different purposes. One of, one being that, of course, it created, it served economic purpose for the people who did not want to see Japanese workers, Japanese American workers, for instance, competing for jobs. So there's a lot of, there's a lot of factors behind that, but the end result was that the civil rights of Japanese Americans were trampled on and they were evicted from their homes and they essentially spent the rest of the war sitting in these concentration camps far away from home. And of course, is this injustice that we want to remember every year for the Day of Remembrance. Of course, the other factor of the story as well is that, of course, we also celebrate redress. Of course redress didn't happen until, the 70s and 80s, but eventually Japanese Americans gained redress through the signing of the Civil Liberties Act of [1988], and by that, time, of course, many of the evacuees had passed away, but nonetheless, for those who were still alive at the time, they were entitled to a, to monetary compensation and a apology, actually, from the government for their unjust incarceration during the war. So we also want to lift that up as well, in that it was a celebration, it's a commemoration of the fact that we were in fact compensated by the government for that injustice. Miko Lee: [00:08:46] Jeff, can you share a little bit about your personal connection with the incarceration? Jeff Matsuoka: [00:08:52] My mother's family actually were Japanese Peruvians. They actually lived in Lima, Peru, which of course is the capital of Peru. And a little known, part of the whole sort of Japanese evacuation. I also reached down to South America and my mother's family, I predict my grandfather was actually taken by by the FBI from Peru, and they, were interned in a, separate system of camps called the Department of Justice camps, and they ended up in Crystal City, Texas, which was a maximum security concentration camp run by The Immigration Naturalization service. So my connection is a little bit different from those whose ancestors were born or who lived here in the United States itself. Since my family actually were, From peru. And they only spoke Spanish and Japanese. They didn't really speak English when they came here. Miko Lee: [00:09:39] Jeff, thank you so much for sharing a piece of the story of Japanese Latin Americans that were incarcerated. I talked about that at the beginning of the episode, over 3,000 Japanese Latin Americans, and we actually have a whole episode and a curriculum that's based on that in our series, Never Again. So I'll put a link to that in the show notes. Jeff, can you also talk about your experience growing up with the Day of Remembrance? What was the first one you attended? Now you're the chair and you've been the chair for a bit, but what was your first Day of Remembrance and how does that stick in with your family history? Jeff Matsuoka: [00:10:17] I actually attended what's called the Peru Kai Reunions. These were reunions of many of the Peruvian Japanese who were kidnapped from their countries, and they had reunions, interestingly enough. But my first really day of remembrance didn't really come until maybe around, 2010, our San Francisco Bay Area Day of Remembrance, the, one of the, one of the groups that are always represented is the Japanese Latin Americans, that's how I got involved with learning more about the Bay Area Day of Remembrance. I got involved somewhat late but nonetheless, after I understood about what's going on, what happened basically in the United States itself that really piqued my interest to see whether, we could tell the story, to the American public, because I think this is a really, very important, story that Japanese Americans and Japanese Latin Americans can tell to the American experience here. Miko Lee: [00:11:06] Every year there's a different theme, and in every area there's a different theme. This year we're focused on the Bay Area with you, and the theme for this year is Carrying the Light for Justice – Finding Our Way Home. Can you share a little bit about where that theme came from, and what does it mean to you? Jeff Matsuoka: [00:11:23] Yes. We want to actually talk about the injustices that were wrought on Japanese Americans, as well as, the redress which was a, which tried to correct those injustices. I think another part of DOR is, our experience as Japanese Americans having been, incarcerated unjustly and having also won redress from the government for those injustices gives us kind of a unique platform from which we can, also illuminate some of the struggles of our sisters and brothers, who have also suffered similar injustices in the United States. When October 7th happened, and the war in the Mideast between Israel and the Palestinian people flared up again, the committee members realized that this was something that our community had to come to grips with. So our sub theme this year, Finding Our Way Home you know, has to do with the fact that we need to try to understand a little bit more I feel about the plight of the Palestinian people who, in fact, had their homes essentially taken from them. There is a parallel there, obviously, with the Japanese American experience here, where many people lost their homes or had their properties expropriated taken over by the government or by other people. We feel that we need to have a better understanding, basically, and we need to also stand in solidarity with the Palestinian people, because, and we also need to educate our, audience, which are mainly Japanese Americans, as to the, as to the parallels, between the plight of the Palestinian people that are, that they are undergoing right now, and plight of our people who, you know, who were definitely very much discriminated against and, had their human rights trampled on during the war. So this is another Aspect of DOR I believe that we need to also emphasize. DOR is many things, but I think what it really is, it really is a commemorative and educational event, certainly, but also, it does have an advocacy function as well. The theme kind of embraces that idea of home. We all want to go home and that's what certainly the people in the concentration camps felt during World War II and I'm sure that's what the Palestinian people are feeling as well. Miko Lee: [00:13:23] And how will this support and understanding of what's going on in Palestine show up at the event this year? Jeff Matsuoka: [00:13:32] We're very fortunate to have as our keynote speaker, Reverend Michael Yoshi. He's a retired minister of the Buena Vista United Methodist Church. Michael, for many years he's had a ministry with a village in the West Bank Wadi Fukin, and actually in past DORs, he has reported about his experiences there, and he's also invited members of the villagers of Wadi Fukin to come and visit the United States. He, I believe, is uniquely positioned to speak about these parallels that I'm talking about between the JAA incarceration and what's going on in Palestine, in Gaza and the West Bank today. And also he's uniquely, I think, respected in our community, and he has, he's worked very diligently, he's very highly respected in our JAA community, and I believe that he will be a really great speaker to help us educate to fulfill our educational function of, trying to try to tell us what's going on really there in Palestine. We have, I think, in the United States, a very kind of blinkered view of what's going on, and I think, I believe we need to rectify that view. And I believe, as I say, Reverend Yoshi, who has had, he's been there, he has talked to people there. I believe he is really the best speaker that we could have imagined for our theme this year. So we're really happy to have Reverend Michael Yoshi to be our keynote speaker. Miko Lee: [00:14:53] That sounds great. One of the things I've been really Noticing is how young folks in our community are really vocal about their support for the Palestinians. I'm wondering if you've noticed a difference In the young people that are part of the movement and how they organize and how they utilize their activism versus folks of our generations. Jeff Matsuoka: [00:15:15] Yeah, so of course it's very interesting, of course, the younger generation, they certainly have a proficiency with technology, in particular, social media. And that's something that I think our generation lacks, or we're not as proficient at, using those tools, they're actually able to amplify their message in a way that our generation really at least don't think we really can do. Their reach is much more widespread, I believe, as a result. What really impresses me about the young people, though, is, how as you mentioned, how fervent their advocacy is. Thing is, they're, some of them are really much more ardent, in my opinion, on this cause than people of my generation have shown. So I believe we can learn something from them and I'm really happy that we have some young people on our committee who are really helping us try to try as oldsters to try to understand how best we can bring out this message to the American community and to our community for that matter. Miko Lee: [00:16:11] That's great. And we'll hear more about that later in the episode with KC Mukai, who actually developed a youth organizing committee that's part of the work of JACL and DOR, I believe. So I'm excited to hear more about that. Can you tell us about this Year's Clifford I. Uyeda Peace and Humanitarian Awardee? Jeff Matsuoka: [00:16:32] Yes, our awardee this year is Dr. Rabab Abdulhadi, and, she is actually a professor at San Francisco State University, and, she has for many years actually been very supportive of our JA Advocacy. She's been a candle lighter at our, at our, at previous, of Remembrance events. She is the Director of Arab and Muslim Ethnicities and Diaspora Studies at San Francisco State And she has won many awards. One thing that we really want to emphasize for this year's award is the fact that, we are talking about, the situation in Palestine. The committee felt that it was appropriate to have Dr. Albdulhadi be the awardee given all the work that she's been doing basically to promote Palestinian understanding, both in the educational aspects as well as in advocacy as well. So we feel that she's very well deserving of the Clifford I. Uyeda. Peace and Humanitarian award. And we're very happy that I understand that she will be there in person to accept the award. So we're very, we're looking forward to seeing her at our event. Miko Lee: [00:17:37] Can you give us a little background about the award and what it represents? Jeff Matsuoka: [00:17:44] Yes, the Clifford I. Uyeda award is named after Dr. Clifford I. Uyeda, actually. He was a San Francisco pediatrician, he was also an activist, a lifelong really activist in the Japanese American community. He was active in the JACL. He was very instrumental in starting the, one of the, one of the founders of the redress movement when he was president, actually, the national JACL. Also Dr. Clifford was a man who, you know really was a person of tremendous, I think, courage in the sense that he was man of principle. He took positions, which I think, could have alienated him from even other Japanese or Japanese Americans. For instance, he was very much an advocate for recognizing the Japanese government's involvement or complicity in the rape of Nanking, for instance. And he was very, yes, he was definitely very courageous in taking positions that other people in our community really felt uncomfortable actually taking positions on. When he passed away in 2004, the Day of Remembrance Committee decided to create the Clifford I. Uyeda Award to honor his memory as well as to commemorate or to honor individuals who are activists in the same vein as Dr. Uyeda was. Courageous path breakers basically in our community and also outside of community for social justice and inclusion and yeah, we're very happy that Dr. Albdulhadi is this year's Clifford I. Uyeda award winner. Miko Lee: [00:19:12] I hear what you're saying about how important it is for our community, for Japanese Americans to understand this history and to recognize it and connect it with things that are happening today. Why is it important for non-Japanese Americans to understand about the Day of Remembrance? Jeff Matsuoka: [00:19:29] First of all, I'm sorry to say this, most non-Japanese don't even know about EO966 or the internment of Japanese Americans. As time goes on the American public sort of forgets things, and this is one of those things that really can't be forgotten because obviously what happens when you forget history is you repeat history, and that's what's happening. I think, for the non Japanese community, the lessons that were learned from the incarceration of Japanese Americans, in the sense that, it was an unjust incarceration that civil rights were, in fact, trampled on, and that, in fact, the government apologized for those injustices and they actually compensated, our community. These are things that I think the American public needs to know because if they forget, and unfortunately I believe they are forgetting, then those same injustices will be perpetrated again among other, to other communities and the cycle will continue. So this is a very valuable lesson and particularly now given the political atmosphere here in this country. This is a very important lesson that needs to be taught and understood as to what the implications of government actions like this have basically on people, if our, of our certainly has affected our community but we can look at other examples of other communities that have been similarly impacted. And I believe those lessons have been lost or forgotten in those cases. The Day of Remembrance is really more important than it ever has been. Miko Lee: [00:20:56] Thank you so much Jeff Matsuoka for joining us. We will put a link in our website to the Day of Remembrance events that are happening all over the country. But Jeff, can you give us more details about the Bay Area Day of Remembrance that's happening February 17th from 2 to 4? Where is it and what will people experience when they go to it? Jeff Matsuoka: [00:21:14] Yes, thanks, Miko. Yes, the San Francisco Bay Area Day of Remembrance will take place as you mentioned on Saturday, February 17th from 2 to 4PM. It's going to be at the AMC Kabuki 8 theaters. That's 1881 Post Street in San Francisco's Japantown. And we'll have, of course, the keynote speaker, Reverend Yoshi, but, another important part, a very commemorative part of our, Day of Remembrance is the candle lighting ceremony, where we actually honor the internees of the ten War Relocation Authority camps, as well as the DOJ Department of Justice camp, with a candle lighting ceremony, and that's always the highlight of the event. A very you know, commemorative and contemplative and very actually emotional, event where we commemorate the all the internees who were unjustly incarcerated and, following the event we're actually going to have a procession through Japantown, going from the theater to a reception, which should be held at the Japanese Cultural and Community Center of Northern California and that's on Center street. So we hope you can join us. It should be should be a really, meaningful and important event Miko Lee: [00:22:18] And that candlelight procession is quite beautiful. It is wheelchair accessible so people can leave the Kabuki theater and basically walk around the corner. And it's a lovely commemoration and recognition of a horrible event that happened in these United States. But we're working to remember them so that we can make sure that they don't happen again. Thank you so much, Jeff, for joining us on Apex Express. Jeff Matsuoka: [00:22:42] Thank you very much for having me. Jalena Keane-Lee: [00:22:46] Next up listen to Nobuko Miyamoto's “Gaman.” MUSIC Jalena Keane-Lee: [00:29:07] That was “Gaman” from Nobuko Miyamoto's Smithsonian Folkways album, 120,000 Stories. Nobuko was one of the many women's stories that haven't been highlighted until now. Miko Lee: [00:29:19] You are listening to 94.1 KPFA and 89.3 KPFB in Berkeley, 88.1 KFCF in Fresno, 97.5 K248BR in Santa Cruz, 94.3 K232FZ in Monterey, and online worldwide at kpfa.org. Jalena Keane-Lee: [00:29:48] All right. Welcome KC Mukai to Apex Express. I think this is the first time that we've had the reigning Cherry Blossom Queen on our show, so it's so great to have you here. Thank you so much for joining us. KC Mukai: [00:30:02] Oh my gosh, yes, thank you so much for having me. It's an honor. Jalena Keane-Lee: [00:30:07] So can you tell us a little bit about being the Cherry Blossom Queen, like what did it feel like to win that honor, and how did you find out about the pageant? KC Mukai: [00:30:16] Well, I've always been involved in the Japanese American community growing up, going to Buddhist temples and participating in Girl Scouts. But when I came to the Bay for college, I was really searching for community. So I got involved with an internship program called Nikkei Community Internship in Japantown, and then that put me in contact with the Northern California Cherry Blossom Festival. And from there, I decided to apply for the Queen Program, because it really valued female leadership, especially within the community. And it's been an amazing, amazing year so far, and I'm actually almost rounding out the end of it for the next court to come in in April. But, yeah, it's truly been such an amazing and beautiful journey with the court. Jalena Keane-Lee: [00:31:02] That's so wonderful. What are some of the highlights of your year with the court so far? KC Mukai: [00:31:09] Yeah, I would definitely say some of the highlights have been me participating in, you know, events that I grew up with, such as Obon getting to go to San Jose Obon and also Concord. Really being a part of the community there. I would also say a highlight has been just going to different community organization fundraisers the JCCCNC and Japantown as well as Kamochi and other organizations that, you know, are really critical for keeping Japantown thriving. It's been an honor to meet leaders from there and be able to see, you know, the blood, sweat and tears that really goes behind producing and helping the community thrive. And then I think, of course, getting to meet just such wonderful, wonderful and amazing women in this community not only from my current core, but also Hawaii and Nisei Week have similar festivals and programs. And so getting to meet and bond with them and just really seeing that, you know, women are the cultural keepers of our community the Japanese American community and it's really important to keep those ties close and really, really help them to grow. Jalena Keane-Lee: [00:32:26] Oh, I love that. What are some of the things that sparked your interest in Japanese American community organizing and culture bearing? KC Mukai: [00:32:39] Some of the things that inspired me, particularly in my organizing sense is definitely having, being part of the Japanese American community and I have grandparents and great grandparents and family that were among the 125,000 people of Japanese descent that were incarcerated during World War II because they were deemed a national security threat. And so because of that tie to incarceration and injustice and the fact that, you know, my great grandparents lost their livelihood and my grandparents lost their youth and kind of that community sense lost a grasp of their identity and security I ground my organizing work in kind of a lot of making sure that that injustice doesn't happen to other communities today or at least advocating for that. And I think being a cultural keeper it's growing up and being part of temples and community spaces. I got a chance to see how the women of my community and like the Obachans or the grandmas would come out and dedicate so much of their lives to keeping our temples and organizations afloat in terms of, you know, coming out early and bringing food staying till late hours cleaning up, leading the organizations on the board and stepping up for leadership positions. And it's because of those role models and that ancestral history that I continue to feel today, like, it's important to get involved in my community and also speak up for injustice. Jalena Keane-Lee: [00:34:18] Thank you so much for sharing that. Tonight's show is focused on the Day of Remembrance. Can you share a little bit about how the Day of Remembrance has been recognized in your family? KC Mukai: [00:34:30] Yeah, so in my family I'm half Japanese and half Chinese, and my Japanese side, my family has always. recognized Day of Remembrance as an important holiday within our community, specifically because of its importance to recognizing incarceration and what happened to Japanese Americans during World War II. I grew up in the Central Valley in Fresno area and the surrounding towns and being able to recognize the Day of Remembrance and kind of tie it back to my own, personal tie with this, and then also connecting it to what is happening in the world today, that's always been kind of an important keynote of, of the time. So my family, in particular, my Japanese side was incarcerated at Poston and Gila River and then they resettled back in the bay, but then my pod moved out to central California to live on a cherry farm. We always understood that despite this being kind of a historic event, the themes of injustice and exclusion, and human rights are still very much applicable to what we see happening in the world today. Jalena Keane-Lee: [00:35:55] Can you talk with us about the theme of this year's Bay Area event for Day of Remembrance, Carrying the Light for Justice – Finding Our Way Home? KC Mukai: [00:36:04] Yeah, so the theme for this year's Day of Remembrance has to do with Palestine and what we see happening in the Middle East. We chose Palestine to be your theme because we think that it's an important moment to not only share and educate what is happening with our community, but also to bring our community in and raise consciousness. We chose this topic because of course it's very urgent and very timely as, as we speak, there is still not a ceasefire in Palestine and we wanted to do all we could to really highlight the issue and center the Palestinian community and really be an ally. Japanese Americans, we know from our own history, the importance of protecting human rights and civil rights and civil liberties, since these were, of course, stripped away from us during America's World War II incarceration camps. And so, seeing then the destruction of, you know, Palestinian communities really speaks to us as Japanese Americans because we also faced the destruction of our own communities, you know, in our homes and our businesses and our farms are taken away. And also we were denied our education, our health care, our cultural rights and of course, other infringements of civil rights and basic human rights. We very much see this, and recognize the same things happening in Palestine. However, with that being said, I think our DOR committee also recognizes that not all of our community is in the same place in terms of education and understanding of this work and we want to be cognizant of that. So part of our programming is we're inviting Reverend Michael Yoshi, who's a very respected pastor within the United Methodist Church who has been doing work alongside an allyship with Palestine for a while. And we're inviting him as a respected member of our community to come and speak and share a bit about why he sees the Japanese American experience aligning with the Palestinian experience. On top of having Reverend Michael Yoshi, we're also inviting a few of our Nikkei organizations in the community to come and table and just be there to help educate. There's a growing collective called Nikkei for Palestine that has recently formed that has been trying to push our community to be more active and organized. So Nikkei for Palestine, alongside Tsuru for Solidarity is hoping to show up and also just help bring our community into the work. Jalena Keane-Lee: [00:38:46] That's so great. Thank you so much for doing that. And I feel like it really brings the phrase of never again into the present and also emphasizing that never again doesn't just mean for our own community, but it means for anyone and everyone in the world. So thank you so much for making those intersectional connections. And I know you mentioned Nikkei for Palestine and Tsuru for Solidarity. And so I was just curious if you could talk a little bit about the different kind of community organizing groups that you're a part of. KC Mukai: [00:39:21] Yeah, sure I'd love to share. So I think importantly is probably Nikkei for Palestine collective that I have been doing work in and we are a growing collective that formed out of a kind of initial meeting held by Nikkei resistors in the Bay Area that sought to kind of gather others who were really seeing the destruction and loss of life happening in Palestine and really wanting to organize around that.And so Nikkei for Palestine has been doing several things, including trying to push the JACL or the Japanese American Citizens League to speak up. We've also been holding weekly power hours for our Nikkei community to call on our Japanese American representatives to speak up. We've also been doing educational work, and putting together packets and toolkits and so that's Nikkei for Palestine. Other than Nikkei for Palestine, I'm of course involved as the Queen of the Northern California Cherry Blossom Festival and on top of that, I also do work with Tsuru for Solidarity as their current fundraiser chair. And alongside doing my fundraising role in Tsuru, I'm also on the Police, Prisons, and Detention Working Group, and currently in Tsuru for Solidarity is actually planning for a big action in Tacoma, Washington. We're organizing, to shut down the Northwest Detention Center, which, is a detention center, holding individuals that have been facing very bleak, human rights violations, in terms of not getting adequate food, having, water pipes burst in the detention center and they've actually been going on hunger strike, the individuals within this detention center have been trying to strike in their own way, and so we're hoping to do a big protest upcoming on our Day of Remembrance, actually, for February 16th. And then past that, we're also doing a big action at the end of April, in the last weekend of April. Yeah, those are some of the groups that I organize with today. Jalena Keane-Lee: [00:41:32] That's great. Thank you so much for sharing. And when it comes to, you know, growing up and becoming a woman in the world today and just everything that we're faced with when it comes to genocide and mass incarceration, both in the present and in the past, I'm curious, what are some of the things that that bring you hope and that remind you that You know, there is so much to fight for and to work for. KC Mukai: [00:42:03] I think some things that give me hope are intergenerational conversations. I think oftentimes within organizing work and can get. We tend to pigeonhole ourselves within like this one moment without realizing that we're part of a larger landscape and in a larger history of people that have been doing this work for a long time. So it makes me very hopeful and grateful to see elders that have been in this work for a long time getting involved and sharing their knowledge as well as younger folk and children also sharing and being part of the movement today. Recently I went to a ceasefire banner drop at the Buddhist Church of Oakland and there they had some of their Dharma school students actually speak up and share why ceasefire is important to them and they were leading the chants. And, as you know, going out to protest today, we often see young children out there right there with us. And I think that is so inspiring that despite all of the violence and that we see in the world today, that we're still able to have these moments of true community and true passing down of knowledge and being able to see that there is a future. I think something else that also gives me hope is cultivating spaces like some of the community groups I've been a part of, I think, especially like Tsuru and Nikkei for Palestine. Being able to have honest conversations with each other — I think it can be hard to organize especially when you're organizing against something that seems so insurmountable and then conflict often comes to that, but it's been hopeful to see the ways in which my community is able to push past, I guess, the ties of what bounds us to punitive and carceral measures in terms of like, if I don't agree with you, I'm going to shun you. And it's been encouraging to see spaces where this is rethought and how can we creatively work in and organize together in a space without and recognize that we may have differences, but that we're all in this work together and push forward from that. And so I think those have definitely kept me going in these moments. Jalena Keane-Lee: [00:44:34] And yes, we love intergenerational connections and organizing and activism, and I was wondering if you see any differences in organizing amongst our generation and our parents and our grandparents generations. KC Mukai: [00:44:48] Wow, that's a great question. Yeah, I would say something, like, I would definitely say something that I've noticed is different is that kind of abolitionist look at relationships in terms of, I feel like, in my parents and grandparents generation, there's often, and especially within the community, there's often this need to, like, disagreement is never completely dealt with, or it's definitely like more shamed upon or kind of the ways that we treat each other are, you know, not as like creative as we want it to be. And so what I see in this future generation is this. It's kind of, you know, hope to be more intentional with each other, especially under an understanding, like the work needs to be done and how can we get past this small moment of conflict and be able to see the larger picture. I would also say like in terms of organizing itself I think it's been cool to see how, I guess social media plays a role in our organizing spaces. Especially I was just on a call with an elder last night and she was sharing about her work getting involved in the Vietnam War and how from their perspective, they weren't able to get like the real time information about the atrocities happening during war like we are during this time, and being able to see, you know, the amount of destruction happening in Palestine. So I think that, you know, the social media part of it and how fast media can move is playing to our benefit, but also, you know, also our demise in some way. And so, yeah, I think those two things are definitely some differences I see in our generations. Jalena Keane-Lee: [00:46:45] Thank you. If there's someone out there listening who's not sure how to get involved in community and community organizing, and maybe not sure that their voice matters or could make any sort of impact, what would you say to them? KC Mukai: [00:47:04] Yeah, if there's someone, I think if there's someone out there listening that, you know, is maybe struggling with, seeing how their voice and their position in this matters, I would say to them that it's important to think about yourself, not just as an individual, but as part of a whole. I lean on the practice of interdependence, which is a teaching in Buddhism, which teaches us that we are all connected to each other and what I say and what I do has an impact upon others around me. And I think it's important to understand that movements get started because of a person and another person and another person joining and thinking about the, I guess, vastness of organizing work. It's important to really, while as complicated as it is, it's important to sometimes simplify it for yourselves and just say that, hey, like, I can start my own movement in my own way. I recently heard or was reminded of the way that, redress or redress for the Japanese American community kind of got steam within our community and eventually got passed in Congress. And it started with, you know, one person just keeping standing up at these JACL meetings. And for 10 years, he came to JACL National Convention and he kept arguing that we as Japanese Americans need to bring redress into Congress and because of his work, it eventually passed as a national resolution in JACL and that's when JACL got involved and really helped to push it with Congress, and that's how we got redress and that was such a long timeline and I think it's important to remember stories like that and stories of how movements are started to encourage us. Jalena Keane-Lee: [00:49:15] Absolutely. And speaking of JACL, could you talk with us about your development of a district youth board for JACL? KC Mukai: [00:49:26] Yeah, so I started the district youth board of the NCWNP district youth board, two years ago because I became the NCWNP, which is the Northern California, Western Nevada Pacific District, youth rep.And because of that position, my governor asked if I could, you know, really get a hold on this, this youth leadership. And so with her guidance, and my, I guess, ambition and drive, I brought together 6 of us, to form the 1st District Youth Board in the JACL, and we were able to build out programming and youth events and intergenerational events and get a grant to help send people to national convention as well as other projects all within our first year. And so it was very, very, very great especially for building the leadership pipeline within JACL we were able to help some of our youth members get on to leadership positions within our district council and also as chapter presidents and because of that, it helps to diversify, I guess, the outlook of of JACL in terms of what JACL is passionate about what it's able to speak on. And so I'm very, very proud of that district youth board. But since then, I have stepped off as one of the founders and so my co-founders Bruce Arao and Halle Sousa have been really, really doing such a great job with district youth board. And taking it to places I never thought I would go. So I think it's all been great getting to watch them do that. Jalena Keane-Lee: [00:51:27] That's wonderful. Thank you. Is there anything else that you'd like to add about the Day of Remembrance or about anything else that you have going on? KC Mukai: [00:51:38] Yeah. So I'd like to add, I'm also involved in a growing organization that we just founded called JAYA, which is the Japanese American Youth Alliance. And our goal is to connect all of the Nikkei youth organizations within the Bay and NorCal and Northern California together to help do like youth programming and also kind of serve as a bridge between collegiate organizations and then young adult organizations. And so because of that work with JAYA, we're actually holding our own Day of Remembrance event, and it's in conjunction with the Bay Area DOR. But it will be happening right before Bay Area DOR's, which will be in the morning around 11 AM, and we're holding it at the JCYC in San Francisco, Japantown, this event will, be more of an opportunity for youth to come together to talk about why Day of Remembrance is important. We'll also be talking about Palestine and solidarity with Palestine and so if there's any youth listening who are interested in coming, we definitely would like to see you there. And then afterwards, after our youth one, we'll be joining the Bay Area DOR one at Kabuki Theater. Jalena Keane-Lee: [00:52:26] That's great. Thank you so much for sharing. And we will link to more information on that in our show notes too. KC Mukai: [00:53:02] Okay. Wonderful. Jalena Keane-Lee: [00:53:06] Is there anything else that you'd like to add or share? KC Mukai: [00:53:08] Just thank you so much for having me. And this was such a great opportunity to share a little bit about my work, but also the larger work of the Japan town and Japanese American community. So thank you so much. Jalena Keane-Lee: [00:53:19] Thank you so much. It was so lovely getting to talk with you and it's really inspiring all the different work that you're doing and, uh, Nikkei for Palestine sounds really awesome too. KC Mukai: [00:53:29] Thank you, thank you. Miko Lee: [00:53:31] There are events happening this weekend for Day of Remembrance, all over the country. So for the community calendar, I'm going to give you a little bit of an update. To find out more about what's happening for Day of Remembrance in your community check out the Japanese American Citizen League's website to look at the regional events at JACL.org. In the Bay Area where many of us are located. This Friday night from 6 to 9:00 PM there's going to be a day of remembrance student celebration at UC Berkeley's Stephen's Lounge. And then the next day on February 17th in the Bay Area will be the Bay Area Day of Remembrance that we talked to both of our guests tonight about. It's called Carrying the Light for Justice – Finding Our Way Home to commemorate the Executive Order 9066. It will be at AMC Kabuki 8 theater on 1881 Post St, and then a beautiful candlelight procession through the streets of Japantown to a reception at the Japanese Cultural [and Community Center] on 1840 Sutter. Everyone is welcome and it's wheelchair accessible. Also February 17th from 2 to 4, if you are in Los Angeles, the Day of Remembrance is called Rooted in Resistance: Fighting for Justice during World War II, reinforces the importance of standing up for justice in times of great moral crisis. From the draft resisters and the No-No Boys to those who protested through quiet hunger strikes or chanting crowds, resistance has taken many forms since World War II and we will hear truth and testimony from those who remember and honor these stories. Some of the speakers include Diana Tsuchida, Kyoko Oda, Tak Hoshizaki, and Soji Kashiwagi. On Monday, February 19th from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM is the Day of Remembrance in San Jose. And then the following weekend, Saturday and Sunday, February 24 and 25, there will be films all about the Day of Remembrance at the Kabuki and San Francisco. And then in San Jose at the Betsuin Buddhist church. Again, to find out more what's happening in your community check out JACL.org. And remember so that we don't repeat the harms of the past. Thank you very much.   Jalena Keane-Lee: [00:55:54] Next up we hear “Summer of '42” by Kishi Bashi from the album Omoiyari. Even though Kishi and his family immigrated to the US post-World War II, he created this album to address the current political climate. He felt that the talk of walls and bans on immigrants recalls the same sort of fears that sparked the internment camps after Pearl Harbor in 1941. Jalena Keane-Lee: [00:56:18] That was “Summer of '42” by Kishi Bashi. Miko Lee: [00:59:14] Please check out our website, kpfa.org to find out more about the Day of Remembrance and the guests that we spoke to. We thank all of you listeners out there. Keep resisting, keep organizing, keep creating and sharing your visions with the world because your voices are important. Apex Express is produced by Ayame Keane-Lee, Anuj Vaidya, Cheryl Truong, Hien Nguyen, Jalena Keane-Lee, Miko Lee, Nate Tan, Paige Chung, Preti Mangala-Shekar, and Swati Rayasam. Tonight's show was produced by Miko Lee and edited by Ayame Keane-Lee. Have a great night.           The post APEX Express – 2.15.24 – Carrying the Light for Justice appeared first on KPFA.

James William Moore is not only a much-sought after and admired educator, but he is also an international lens-based artist known for his use of camp and kitsch aesthetics to create surreal and thought-provoking cinematic experiences through photography, video, projection mapping, and installations. Through his work, Moore appropriates politics, American pop culture, and everyday life creating a visual language that is both humorous and deeply meaningful. He has always been drawn to the power of visual storytelling, as seen in his series Tilting at Windmills, Get a Clue, and Portrait of a Teller's Fortune as he brings his imagination to life by combining fact and fantasy.To James, appropriation is not a dirty word. To him it is a word that has been much maligned over the years. “However, when we aren't appropriating cultures, the power of appropriation is limitless, “ said James. “ To be honest, as much as kitsch and camp form the heart of my storytelling art practice, the soul of my artwork is appropriation. Appropriation refers to taking something of someone else's and making it our own. When I look back over my work, I see a heavy influence coming from artists like Cindy Sherman, René Magritte, Philip-Lorca diCorcia, Andy Warhol, and Edward Hopper. Whether it's a subconscious passion for architecture and mundane of Hopper, the vibrant storytelling with saturated imagery of diCorcia, or the sheer gaudiness of Warhol – I see the influence of these masters on my work. Through my reverent appreciation of these artists, I appropriate their style, subject matter, visual composition, and techniques.”Moore completed his Master of Fine Art, with a concentration in photography, at San José State University. He has taught photography at SJSU and Gavilan College. He also led a workshop on Adobe Photoshop to assist with the City of San Jose's Cultural History and Postcard Public Art Project. His work has been seen in group shows, with highlights including: Clang, Clang Clang went the Trolley at Rayko Galleries' SHOWCASE (2012, San Francisco), Spin Me ‘Round at Pacific Art League's Carnevale (2010, Palo Alto), Alone with Dino at 1650 Gallery's Dudes, Bros, & Gentlemen (2016, Los Angeles), Dances at Windmills at JJ&A PopUP Gallery's Unconventional Urban Ballet (2014, Palm Springs) and selected images from Madame B's Tarot Readings appearing at FotoNostrum (2023, Barcelona). Moore's solo show highlights include: 40 at Paragon Restaurant, Carnevale & Kimonos at Read Brown Salon (2016, Palm Springs), Get a Clue at San Jose State University's Black Gallery (2020), and Madame B's Tarot Readings at Jo Farb Hernandez Gallery. His public art participation includes Red Obi from the Obon series in the Japantown Mural Project (2013, San Jose) and Judgement from the Madame B's Tarot Readings series in Expo Metro's Billboard Art Project (2023, Barcelona).

Tenshin Roshi talks about the Buddhist festival of Obon, which, at Yokoji we link to Halloween and Día de los Muertos. The text referenced is "The Five Buddha Families," from The Collected Works of Chögyam Trungpa Rinpoche.

Halloween en Japón es una fiesta cada vez más popular aunque, evidentemente, no sea autóctona. Te contamos cuál es la historia de esta fiesta y cómo se empezó a celebrar en Japón. Y buscamos explicaciones para su popularidad, porque además no está relacionada con la muerte (para eso tienen el Obon). Hablamos de comida y productos típicos de Halloween y hasta de la celebración que durante muchos años estuvo haciendo la yakuza de Kobe para niños. Asimismo, te contamos cuáles son las fiestas más populares para disfrutar de Halloween en Tokio (que es el centro neurálgico de esta celebración en Japón). Y evidentemente, entre ellas tenemos que mencionar Halloween en Shibuya, y todo lo que ocurrió allí en 2019 y cómo para 2023 las autoridades intentan evitar su celebración. ¡Mata ne! ¿Quieres colaborar con el programa? - Colabora en Patreon - Únete a la Comunidad Japonismo - Reserva hoteles en Japón (y en todo el mundo) - Consigue seguro de viajes (¡no sólo para Japón!) - Busca los mejores vuelos - Lleva Internet (pocket wifi o SIM) - JR Pass para viajes ilimitados en tren ---- Continúa la conversación en: - Web: https://japonismo.com - Discord: https://discord.gg/hZrSa57 - Facebook: https://facebook.com/japonismo - Twitter: https://twitter.com/japonismo - Instagram: https://instagram.com/japonismo - Pinterest: https://pinterest.com/japonismo - Newsletter semanal: http://eepurl.com/di60Xn

------------------------------- 強化英語課程資訊 ------------------------------- 「社會人核心英語」有聲書課程連結：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/554esm ------------------------------- 15Mins.Today 相關連結 ------------------------------- 歡迎針對這一集留言你的想法： 留言連結 官方網站：www.15mins.today 加入Clubhouse直播室：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/46hm8k 訂閱YouTube頻道：https://15minsengcafe.pse.is/3rhuuy 主題投稿/意見回覆 : ask15mins@gmail.com 商業合作/贊助來信：15minstoday@gmail.com ------------------------------- 以下有參考文字稿～ 各播放器有不同字數限制，完整文稿可到官網搜尋 ------------------------------- 每日英語跟讀 Ep.K639: Creative Cooling Solutions: Japan's Answer to Heatwaves Japan, renowned for its innovative prowess, has mastered the art of combating extreme heat. As the world grapples with rising temperatures, the Land of the Rising Sun offers an array of cooling solutions, from traditional philosophies to cutting-edge technologies. Japan unveiled a wealth of ingenious strategies that locals employ to stay cool amidst scorching weather. 以其創新能力聞名的日本已經掌握了對抗極端高溫的藝術。隨著全球面臨不斷上升的溫度，這個旭日東升之國提供了一系列的降溫解決方案，從傳統哲學到尖端技術。日本揭露了當地人在炎炎烈日下保持涼爽的聰明策略。 In the midst of July in Japan, foreign travelers found themselves facing sweltering temperatures exceeding 37°C. Walking outdoors felt akin to sizzling wagyu steaks on a grill. Yet, the locals displayed a remarkable composure, prompting us to investigate further. From Osaka to Kyoto, our mission was clear: escape the sweltering heat. Among the throngs of tourists, it became evident that the Japanese held the secret to staying comfortably cool. 在日本的七月期間，外國遊客們發現自己面對超過37°C的酷熱氣溫。走在室外感覺就像在烤架上烤肥牛牛排一樣。然而，當地人表現出非凡的沉著，促使我們進一步調查。從大阪到京都，我們的任務是明確的：擺脫炎熱。在眾多遊客中，顯然日本人掌握了保持舒適涼爽的秘密。 Japan's ability to blend ancient traditions with futuristic innovations becomes strikingly evident in its approach to handling heatwaves. The concept of "mono no aware," encapsulating the transient beauty of all things, offers solace in the face of intense weather. This philosophy, shaped by Japan's historical exposure to natural calamities, fosters an accepting outlook. Seeking refuge in tranquil Zen spaces like Kyoto's Heian Jingu Shrine garden provides respite. The garden's Bridge of Peace, adorned with furin glass chimes, emanates a sense of coolness, a metaphorical reminder of gentle breezes. 日本將古老的傳統與未來的創新融合的能力，在應對熱浪方面變得顯著。"物の哀れ"這一概念，涵蓋了所有事物的瞬息美，能在極端天氣面前帶來慰藉。這種哲學，受到日本歷史上自然災害的影響，培養了一種接納的態度。在像京都平安神宮的庭園這樣的寧靜禪修空間尋求避難，提供了喘息的機會。庭園的和平之橋飾以風鈴玻璃，散發著涼爽的感覺，象徵著和緩的微風。 Fashion plays a pivotal role in Japan's heat-survival toolkit. While tourists embrace light clothing, locals master the art of layering to keep cool while adhering to modest dress codes. Uniqlo's AIRism line, crafted from moisture-wicking fabric, epitomizes Japanese innovation. Further, the distinctive tobi trousers, reminiscent of MC Hammer's parachute pants, combine fashion with functionality. High-tech fan-equipped clothing further demonstrates the fusion of creativity and practicality. 時尚在日本的抗熱工具中扮演著重要角色。雖然遊客擁抱著輕便的服裝，但當地人則懂得如何通過分層來保持涼爽，同時遵守著適度的著裝規範。Uniqlo的AIRism系列以排汗面料製成，體現了日本的創新。此外，獨具特色的Tobi長褲讓人聯想到MC Hammer的降落傘褲，將時尚與功能性結合。配備高科技風扇的服裝進一步展示了創意和實用性的融合。 The Japanese vocabulary reflects their relationship with heat, offering a pragmatic understanding of weather conditions. This linguistic approach enables efficient planning, dressing appropriately for the anticipated climate. Additionally, summer's prevalence in ghost stories aligns with Obon, an August festival honoring departed ancestors. Television channels capitalize on this cultural connection, broadcasting chilling films that offer a literal and metaphorical chill. 日本的詞彙反映了他們與高溫的關係，提供了對天氣情況的實務理解。這種語言學方法使人能夠有效地計劃，適當地選擇適合預期氣候的服裝。此外，夏季鬼故事的流行與八月的盂蘭盆節相吻合，這是一個紀念過世祖先的節日。電視頻道利用這種文化聯繫，播放令人毛骨悚然的影片，帶來實質和隱喻上的寒意。 Culinary choices also play a role in battling heat-induced fatigue. Embracing spicy foods to induce sweat, thereby cooling the body, aligns with Japanese beliefs. Syncing with the environment, public spaces maintain a mild air-conditioning balance, a practice in energy conservation and personal comfort. Moreover, the ancient technique of uchimizu—sprinkling water on the streets—proves surprisingly effective in reducing ambient temperatures and controlling dust. 在對抗受熱引起的疲勞方面，飲食選擇也起著作用。食用辛辣食物誘發出汗，從而降低體溫，這與日本的信仰相符。公共空間保持溫和的空調平衡，與環境同步，這是節能和個人舒適的實踐。此外，將水灑在街道上的古老技術“打水”，在降低環境溫度和控制灰塵方面驚人地有效。 In this age of climate change, Japan's holistic approach to beating the heat serves as a model for others to emulate. From the wisdom of ancient philosophies to the ingenuity of modern inventions, the nation's multifaceted strategy sets an example for a world grappling with escalating temperatures. 在這個氣候變化的時代，日本對抗高溫的整體方法成為其他國家效仿的模範。從古老哲學的智慧到現代發明的創新，這個國家多面性的策略為面臨升溫的世界提供了一個示範。 Reference article: https://www.bbc.com/travel/article/20230807-want-to-cope-with-heatwaves-look-to-japans-creative-cooling-solutions

Volume 11 of one of Japan's greatest inventions, City Pop, is a tribute to Obon, a fusion of the ancient Japanese belief in ancestral spirits and a Japanese Buddhist custom to honor the spirits of one's ancestors.   City Pop is a fusion of Western styled pop, rock, disco, funk, R&B, Adult Contemporary and yacht rock. This Japanese concoction had its heyday during the late 70s and early 80s, a time when Japan was riding high in its bubble economy. The music in this episode doesn't fully represent the Obon festivals, but in the spirit of City Pop, each of these songs can convey that wonderful August charm, which is when Obon is usually held in Japan.   We hope that you enjoy the visuals of today's show as well! I'll credit each one as soon as I can.   Today's tunes include;   (0:00) Fantasy - Mieko Nakahara (1982) (4:59) Summer Orange No Koi - Noriyo Ikeda (1980) (9:13) Summer Blue - Bread and Butter (1979) (13:54) Summer Emotions - Toshiki Kadomatsu (1984) (18:04) Just A Joke - Yurie Kokubu (1983)

Ben, Matt, and Burke say good-bye to the summer fun of the Susukino Festival and Beer Garden with another in-depth quiz about Japan's famous alcohol brands (Sapporo, Kirin, Suntory, and Asahi). Then they introduce Autumn Festa, which is an enormous food festival starting soon in downtown Sapporo with over 300 food booths run by restaurants and towns from across Hokkaido that welcomes over two million visitors!Sponsors:MaruMoriThis site has everything you need to learn Japanese! It's an all-in-one, guided, gamified Japanese learning experience with the aim to take you all the way from absolute beginner to language mastery, and the best part is you can start anywhere!https://marumori.io/register?rcode=vijBearfoot BarLocated in downtown Sapporo, walking distance from the subway station. There are  variety of Japanese made craft bottled beers. A wide range of regular and unique spirits and basic cocktails also available. Burgers and pub style snacks. With friendly English and Japanese speaking staff.  https://www.facebook.com/bearfootbarThe Red HouseLocated in the heart of Rusutsu Ski Resort, just cross the main road and it's behind the Seicomart Convenience store. The restaurant features a mix of Japanese, Asian fusion, and western Style dishes, including shabu-shabu with wagyu beef and Hokkaido wagyu beef steak. Open winter and summer, 12-3pm for lunch, 5-9pm for dinner, with prices ranging from under Yen 1000 to about Yen 5000. https://theredhouse.jp/Rusutsu LodgesOpen all year round. Located 5 minutes walk to the main Rusutsu Ski Resort Gondola. There are Japanese, Western, and apartment style rooms with breakfast packages available. There's a Japanese sento (public bath), two convenience stores less than a minute walk, ski room and tune up tables, plenty of free parking space, and summer BBQ packages available. Check out the website for more information and availability. http://rusutsulodges.comHokkaido GuideEstablished over 10 years ago, written by locals for locals and international tourists. The guide contains information on all types of businesses and locations around Hokkaido. There's information regarding all things Hokkaido such as sightseeing, nightlife, events, services, food and restaurants, entertainment, outdoor activities, and more. Currently offered in English and Thai, advertising space available. Check out website for everything you need to know about this beautiful prefecture. https://hokkaidoguide.comUse our Buzzsprout affiliate link to start your podcast today!Website:https://www.voicesinjapan.com/Follow us and check out our other content:https://youtube.com/@voicesinjapanpodcasthttps://twitter.com/voicesinjapanhttps://www.facebook.com/voicesinjapan/https://www.instagram.com/voicesinjapan/Get in touch:voicesinjapan@gmail.comHelp support us at:https://www.patreon.com/voicesinjapanSupport the show

Japan has always been a country which has adapted to weather and seismic conditions.  Traditional housing was built on the assumption that earthquakes would less easily destroy wooded houses with built in flex points.  High-pitched roof angles allowed snow to fall more easily from the roof and prevent the snow's weight from crushing those inside.  Things have changed though and we now have typhoons going as far north as Hokkaido.  When I arrive here in April 1979, that possibility would have been unthinkable.  We have massive flooding of low-lying areas, which until relatively recently, could survive heavy rains.  Japan is also becoming unbearably hot.  Cities like Tokyo have lots of concreted surfaces, not that many trees and the heat at ground level is becoming more and more intense.  The NHK news today was reporting an average temperature for Tokyo of 36 degrees centigrade.  While I was driving around, my car temperature gauge was showing 39.5 degrees for outside the vehicle and trust me, it was red hot on the street level. This is the summer environment our people have to work in.  Energy bills are going up dramatically, to a Government approved 42% increase in some cases, for this summer.  Global energy cost increases are now being are passed on to consumers.  Remote work has shifted the cooling bill to the individual.  There are many cases of older people suffering heatstroke, because they felt they couldn't afford to use the air-conditioning, due to the high cost. This is also a formula for trouble for those working from home.  The idea is that you can be more creative working from home, than in the office.  During Covid it certainly made sense, from a safety point of view.  The “creativity” part, well, I don't know about that idea.  I don't think it easy to be creative at home, when the temperature outside is super-hot and you are not using air-conditioning to save money. I have told my team to come to the office and use the air-conditioning there.  We pay for it anyway, whether there is one person or everyone present.  I also recommend commuting much earlier when it is cooler and the trains are less crowded.  Cool biz is absolutely a must in this heat and I don't see any need for jackets anymore.  Salespeople are the one group in the organisation who want to visit clients, face it face, regardless of how hot it is.  That means heading out into the heat to do so.  While face-to-face is ideal, this heat tells me that virtual meetings which were okay during Covid for sales meetings will be okay now too. As the leaders, we have to adjust our expectations to how much productivity we can expect from our team in these hot conditions.  It is hard to think well and clearly when your brain is frying.  Moving fast and expending lots of energy is not a good idea, when it is so hot. We need to leave earlier for appointments and pace ourselves for the heat.  The heat makes us feel lethargic. As the boss, we have to accept that now during these exceptionally hot summer months, our team will be affected. We have to adjust our expectations about both the quality and quantity of work we can receive.  Carrying on as usual makes no sense and any team working for a boss who has not addressed the productivity expectation issue during extreme heat, will find that the team will not be as motivated.  This is the era in Japan of high demand for staff and high demand from staff for improved boss EQ levels.  Being unwilling or unable to adjust expectations to accommodate the heat is bound to be a stimulus for some people to seek another more caring boss and we know people leave bosses not companies.  This may be the straw that breaks the camel's back this year.  There are only a limited number of things a boss can do for staff in this heat.  If there is a requirement for staff to work from home, then for these hot months of the year, the company can add some additional monies to help with the increased air-conditioning costs at home.  Effective means should be sought for paying this allowance as otherwise the staff just pay increased tax.  Being flexible on the hours being worked in the office also helps.  Starting and finishing early makes sense and bosses need to adjust the company rules about working hours during the summer months and make this a permanent arrangement, because this situation is going to continue forever. Adjusting work goals and targets is another important aspect of boss accommodation for the daily reality of working in extreme heat.  Speed and quality of non-sales staff can be looked at and changes made.  For salespeople, the monthly targets during summer have to reflect the new reality.  Just dividing the annual sales target into equal monthly allocations makes little sense.  There are always certain months of the year when sales are going to be down and this is no accident.  For example, January (Oshogatsu) , February (a short month) and August (Obon) are often slower months in sales because of the fewer workdays.  Bosses have to make some tweaks to the sales targets for these months and now additionally for the other summer months, to reflect this new extreme heat reality. Obon has traditionally been a holiday time in August and perhaps the length of leave during Obon can be extended by another week or so. Clients are also taking time off during Obon, so this makes good sense to squeeze another week into the holiday schedule.  Getting staff to take their holidays is always a strange struggle in Japan, but with this increase in heat, I think bosses need to work on their persuasion skills to encourage staff to take more time off over the summer than previously. This extreme summer heat In Japan is the new normal and we all have to look for ways to adjust to it.  Our staff expect it and we have to look for every area where we can make adjustments and make those permanent adjustments as well.  

One Piece chapter 1089 is on break this week for Obon so this week we decided to talk about One Piece, V-Tubers, Ludwig, Juni Ito and Crunchyroll exploding for the Gear 5 episode in no particular order. 

Hosts Anthony TJ Guest Tanya   Obon   Poem: by Saigyõ   sute-gataki omoi naredomo sutete idemu makoto no michi zo makoto naru beki   Hard it is  to leave the world yet leave I will for the true path is the truth Information referenced: Books Mentioned : Hungry Ghosts - Andy Rotman Gazing at the Moon: Buddhist Poems of Solitude - Saigyõ  Film Mentioned : Tsuruko's Tea Journey:

Rev. Ron Miyamura shares his Dharma Talk for Obon Service. 

Obon season has arrived in Hawaiʻi.  Throughout the Islands' summer months, bon dances occur on almost every weekend at different buddhist temples around the state. Featuring great local food stalls, traditional obon songs and energetic dancing around the yagura—a large wooden tower where taiko drummers perform—Hawaiʻi bon dances are a favorite annual event to attend amongst locals and visitors.