Everyday Japanese Podcast

In this episode, I’d like to share something a little different — a preview of my new side project, うとうと time – Sleepy Japanese Podcast 🌙 This project was inspired by one of my students who said: “I have trouble falling asleep at night…” So I thought, maybe I could make something gentle, slow, and sleepy — in Japanese. In “utouto time,” I literally lie down and talk softly in simple, natural...

Meeting someone new can feel nerve-racking, so I invite fellow creator YUYU to share real-life tips for making a great first impression in Japan. We compare polite vs. casual speech, balance listening and talking, handle eye contact, and reveal simple grooming hacks (think nails & nose hair!) that help you look and sound friendly—never scary. Perfect for intermediate learners who want natural...

Meeting someone new can feel nerve-racking, so I invite fellow creator YUYU to share real-life tips for making a great first impression in Japan. We compare polite vs. casual speech, balance listening and talking, handle eye contact, and reveal simple grooming hacks (think nails & nose hair🙈) that help you look and sound friendly—never scary. Perfect for intermediate learners who want natural...

From Nike’s historic link to Japan all the way to today’s thick-soled fashion craze, explore sneaker trends with me in slow, clear Japanese. We compare running, trail, and street pairs; decode words like “抽選販売” and “防水”; and chat about why ASICS fit my wide feet best. Includes a handy vocab list and reflection prompts so you can step up your listening and speaking skills. 🎧 Full transcript,...

In this special solo episode, I take you into my tiny Japanese kitchen for a dishwashing session filled with relaxed, unscripted talk about batch cooking, kitchen tools, rice storage, and everyday routines. You’ll hear the real sounds of pots, pans, and water as I go. It’s the perfect cozy background for your own chores or study time—and a great way to immerse yourself in natural Japanese. Tune in...

I’ve recently fallen in love with tea! In this episode, I talk about why I bought a new kettle (again)😅, how water temperature can totally change a tea’s flavor, and my favorite find—a tea sampler with 30 types from a Japanese brand. You’ll also hear a funny word mix-up and learn tea-related vocabulary. Cozy up and join me on this tasty tea adventure! Check out our transcripts, video podcasts, an...

Shun is back for a casual Japanese chat! This time, we’re talking about health—gym routines, diet, sleep, and motivation. Shun shares his workout habits, thoughts on supplements, and even his eating routine (hint: a lot of eggs!). Join us for a fun, relaxed conversation packed with real-life Japanese expressions. A great episode for improving your listening skills while learning about staying heal...

Shun is back for a casual Japanese chat! This time, we’re talking about health—gym routines, diet, sleep, and motivation. Shun shares his workout habits, thoughts on supplements, and even his eating routine (hint: a lot of eggs!). Join us for a fun, relaxed conversation packed with real-life Japanese expressions. A great episode for improving your listening skills while learning about staying heal...

Anpanman is one of Japan’s most famous children’s anime, but its theme song carries a surprisingly deep message. What does it say about happiness, purpose, and self-sacrifice? In this episode, I break down the lyrics of Anpanman no Māchi and explore its philosophical themes. Check out our transcripts, video podcasts, and Japanese learning resources at⁠⁠: https://sayurisaying.com/anpanman-life-less...

In Japanese, “ダイエット” (diet) usually means losing weight, while in English, “diet” refers to one’s eating habits. In this episode, I share my own experiences with dieting, including food choices and exercise, while discussing this language difference. Plus, I talk about the importance of consistency—whether you’re on a diet or learning Japanese. Let’s keep working toward our goals together! Ch...

Osaka is known as Japan’s comedy capital! In this episode, I talk about my experience watching live comedy in Osaka and what I learned from professional comedians. I also introduce a fun wordplay game from the comedy duo “銀シャリ Ginsyari,” which can be a great tool for Japanese learners. Plus, I reflect on the joy of unexpected discoveries and the impact of laughter on language learning. Let’s d...

Join us for a relaxed and fun conversation with Miku, where we drop the formalities and chat in casual Japanese! From childhood fears like ghosts and Santa Claus to real-life concerns like driving and aging, we explore what scares us the most. Learn natural Japanese expressions while getting a glimpse into everyday conversations between friends. Don’t miss this engaging and insightful episode! Che...

Are you a stationery fan? Let’s talk about the clever design of Japanese stationery! From the “Ukanmuri Clip” that keeps books open to privacy protection stamps and high-quality pens, I’ll introduce smart and useful tools for studying and daily life. Japanese stationery is famous for its thoughtful design—discover what makes it special! What’s your must-have item? Let me know! Check out our transc...

Could Kenichi from Around 40 Man’s Isekai Online Shopping (2025) be my ideal man? In this episode, I introduce Japanese words that go beyond the usual やさしい (kind) and 頭がいい (smart) ! Learn how to describe personality and abilities with words like 適応力 (adaptability) , 地頭がいい (quick-witted) , 利他的 (selfless) , and more. If you love anime and want to expand your vocab naturally, this...

Tired of Japan’s busy tourist destinations? Discover Usuki, a serene castle town in Oita Prefecture, home to breathtaking ancient stone Buddhas and charming historical streets. In this episode, I take you through my personal travel experience, from cycling through scenic countryside to tasting local delicacies. If you’re looking for a quiet, culturally rich getaway, this one’s for you!

In this episode, we welcome back Miku from Miku Real Japanese to dive into the real okonomiyaki culture in Osaka. Do locals eat it every week, or is that just a stereotype? Miku shares her personal experiences growing up in Osaka, talks about Kansai vs. Hiroshima styles, and even introduces us to modan-yaki and takosen ! Perfect for Japanese learners curious about local food culture and everyday l...

Experience the flavor of Osaka with okonomiyaki, the city’s soul food! In this episode, we dive into its rich history, from pre-war beginnings to its modern-day popularity. Discover different styles like modan-yaki, unique dining experiences, and affordable takeout options across Osaka. Whether you’re craving sizzling teppan performances or quick bites, this episode will help you enjoy okonomiyaki...

What happens when you let an app match you with strangers for dinner? I tried “Timeleft,” an innovative app that connects people for meals in big cities like Tokyo and Osaka. In this episode, I dive into the signup process, the mystery of meeting strangers, and the highs and lows of this unique experience. From fun conversations to logistical hiccups, hear my honest review and find out if it’s the...

What are 特殊詐欺 “special fraud” and 闇バイト“dark part-time jobs,” and why are they gaining attention in Japan? This episode dives into the world of crime facilitated through social media, exploring how vulnerable people are drawn into illegal activities. Learn about real-life cases, the roles of apps like Telegram, and the societal issues fueling these trends. By understanding these crimes, we...

How do Japanese people survive the winter chill? In this casual and fun episode, we chat about everything from kotatsu and heat tech to humidifiers, portable heaters, and cozy socks. We even touch on unique traditions like yuzu baths and how kairo keeps hands and bodies toasty. Packed with cultural insights and practical tips, it’s a must-listen for Japanese learners curious about life in Japan du...

If you’re an intermediate or advanced learner, you might already know about Japan’s New Year traditions. That’s why, in this episode, I’m skipping the general explanations to focus on my own year-end and New Year experience. From food prep to handle supermarket closures, to beauty treatments during the break, I’ll share how solo-living professionals navigate this unique time. A great chance to imp...

Need better sleep? Over the past 4 years, I’ve been analyzing my own sleep habits, and in this episode, I’ll share 7 practical tips that work for me. From room temperature and lighting adjustments to aromatherapy and evening routines, these small changes can lead to big improvements in sleep quality. Plus, I’ll explain tricky Japanese words in simple terms, making it easy for Japanese learners to...

This time, I’m speaking freely without a set topic, just sharing my thoughts! Reflecting on a busy yet fulfilling 2024, I talk about life in Osaka, new hobbies, time with friends, and my thoughts on health. I also honestly share realizations about my “easily bored” personality and changes in my physical strength. I encourage listeners to try expressing their own feelings—whether by talking, writin...

In this episode, we dive into the art of Japanese-style arguments, reflecting on a fun, improvised "fake fight" with YUYU from YUYU 日本語Podcast. Explore how Japanese people typically resolve conflicts, why arguments often focus on problem-solving, and how cultural differences influence the way we disagree. We also discuss common phrases and strategies you can use to navigate disagreements in Jap...

Boost your Japanese learning with this hilarious improv featuring a hangry Japanese couple in New York! Our emotional, unscripted conversation is packed with authentic expressions and vocabulary that will enhance your listening skills and deepen your understanding of natural Japanese. Perfect for learners who want to practice with real-life scenarios! This video podcast is available early for Silv...