Sightseeing Japan

Tokyo has all sorts of attractions to offer, but venturing outside the bustling city for a day trip can unveil another side of Japan. Join Jason and Paul as they explore the many diverse experiences that can be had just beyond Tokyo’s borders! Topics Covered: Kamakura and Enoshima (Ep72) Kawagoe (Ep46) Nikko (Ep80) Mt. Fuji (Ep10, also mentioned Arakurayama Sengen Park) Amusement Parks (Ep 94) Mt....

Mental health issues are part of the human experience, and Japan is not immune to the complexities and struggles that individuals face. Join Jason and Paul as they delve into some of the mental health concerns and social challenges that have gained attention in modern Japan. Topics Covered: History Suicide Karoshi Hikikomori Kodokushi Gomi Yashiki Join our Discord community! Become a member on Pat...

Sapporo, the capital of Hokkaido, is considered by many to be the most attractive city in Japan. As one of the snowiest cities in the world, it is also home to an extremely popular snow festival. Join Jason and Paul as they explore the many things to see and do in Sapporo! Topics Covered: History Central: Kani Honke — Sapporo Clock Tower — Odori Park — Tanukikoji Shopping Street — Nijo Market — Su...

Japan’s red-light districts have evolved over the centuries, but even today they offer a complex tapestry of nightlife, entertainment, and cultural nuances. Join Jason and Paul as they delve into the intriguing history, vibrant present, and often overlooked stories of Japan’s adult entertainment hubs. Topics Covered: History Types of Establishments Safety Join our Discord community! Become a membe...

Japan’s train stations are so much more than mere transit hubs. They also offer shopping, dining, cutting-edge technology, and a glimpse into national and local cultures! Japan is even home to the busiest train station in the world. Join Jason and Paul as they explore the many facets of these iconic transportation centers. Topics Covered: History Sights and Sounds Notable Train Stations Join our D...

The city of Matsumoto is known for its iconic historic castle as well as for the natural beauty of the surrounding Japanese Alps. Join Jason and Paul as they explore the many things to see and do in Matsumoto! Topics Covered: History Downtown Area: Matsumoto Castle (and Jokyo Gimin Memorial Museum) — Former Kaichi School — Takagi (Soba Shop) — Matsumoto City Museum — Nawate Street — Nakamachi Stre...

Not only has rice been a staple food in Japan for millennia, but it is also closely intertwined with their spiritual and cultural traditions. Join Jason and Paul as they explore the myriad ways that rice has shaped and continues to define the essence of Japan! Topics Covered: History Cultural Significance Types of Rice Japan’s Rice Industry How is Rice Grown? How to Cook Rice Join our Discord comm...

Traveling is exciting and rewarding, but even the best-laid plans can encounter unexpected bumps along the way. Join Jason and Paul as they discuss how to handle health concerns when you're in Japan. From navigating the healthcare system to finding the right resources, this episode has you covered in case you ever need it! Topics Covered: Emergency Services Vaccinations Travel and Health Insurance...

Japan’s automobile industry is world-renowned for its focus on innovation, craftsmanship, and performance. Join Jason and Paul as they explore car culture (and its unique subcultures) in Japan! Topics Covered: History JDM (Japanese Domestic Market) Kei Cars Itasha Street Racing Other Subcultures: Kyusha Cars - Kaido Racers - Shakotan - Bosozoku - VIP - Grachan Join our Discord community! Become a...

Japan is home to a wide variety of eerie and mysterious tales of the supernatural, many of which take place in everyday settings like schools, bathrooms, and train stations. Join Jason and Paul as they explore the unsettling world of Japanese urban legends! Topics Covered: Kisaragi Station Kuchisake Onna (The Slit-Mouthed Woman) Akai Heya (The Red Room Curse) Hitori Kakurenbo (One Man Hide & S...

Visiting Japan with children can be an exciting and rewarding adventure, but it also raises unique challenges. Join Jason and Paul as they discuss tips and tricks to help make your experience as smooth and enjoyable as possible! Topics Covered: Planning: Hotels, attractions, meals, internet Packing: Stroller, food, supplies When In Japan: Transportation, food, navigation, attractions, entertainmen...

With its pristine natural scenery and picturesque countryside, Japan is home to extraordinary hiking trails. Join Jason and Paul as they explore the best multi-day hiking trails in the country! Topics Covered: Hokkaido Daisetsuzan Grand Traverse Michinoku Coastal Trail Basho Trail Kanto Fureai no Michi Nakasendo Trail Kamikochi-Yari-Hotaka Circuit Nakahechi Trail (Kumano Kodo) Shikoku Pilgrimage K...

Hiroshima is the capital of Hiroshima Prefecture and the largest city in the Chugoku region of Japan. Nearby is the island of Miyajima (Itsukushima) which is famous for its “floating” torii gate. Join Jason and Paul as they explore the history of this area as well as the many things to see and do there! Topics Covered: History Mazda Zoom Zoom Stadium Mazda Museum Shukkeien Garden Hiroshima Castle...

The ume is a fruit commonly referred to in English as the “Japanese plum”. Join Jason and Paul as they discuss its cultural significance and the many ways that this fruit is enjoyed in Japan! Topics Covered: History Ume Flowers Umeboshi Umeshu Other Uses Join our Discord community! Become a member on Patreon!

Ninja, also known as shinobi, were skilled mercenaries in feudal Japan who were hired for a variety of purposes, from espionage to assassination. Join Jason and Paul as they explore the roles that ninja played throughout Japanese history! Topics Covered: History What were Ninja Hired for? Skills Clothes and Equipment Supernatural Abilities How Can You Defend Against a Ninja? Where to Find a Ninja...

Jason and Paul recently returned home from a trip to Japan. Join them as they discuss their itinerary and recount their third week of sightseeing! Topics Covered: Day 15: Nikko (Taiyuin, Futarasan Jinja, Nikko Toshogu Shrine, Rinnoji, Kanmangafuchi Abyss) Day 16: Nikko (Kegon Falls, Lake Chuzenji Sightseeing Trail) Day 17: Kinugawa (Edo Wonderland, Tobu World Square) Day 18: Tokyo (Tanuki Street,...

Changes are coming in October 2023 for the JR Pass. Join Jason and Paul as they discuss the changes and their impact on the value of the pass! Affiliate Links: JR Pass Regional Passes Fare Calculator Join our Discord community! Become a member on Patreon!

Jason and Paul recently returned home from a trip to Japan. Join them as they discuss their itinerary and recount their second week of sightseeing! Topics Covered: Day 8: Kagoshima (Sengan-en) Day 9: Sakurajima (Hotel Rainbow Sakurajima) Day 10: Kagoshima (Museum of the Meiji Restoration, Reimeikan, Cave of Saigo Takamori, Shiroyama Park Observation Deck) Day 11: Kitakyushu (Kokura Castle, Yasaka...

Jason and Paul recently returned home from a trip to Japan. Join them as they discuss their itinerary and recount their first week of sightseeing! Topics Covered: Day 1: Flights Day 2: Onomichi (Temple Walk. Senkoji Park) Day 3: Shimanami Kaido (Dolce Ice Cream, Kosanji, Hill of Hope, I-Link Hostel & Cafe Shimanami) Day 4: Shimanami Kaido (Fuu, Michi-no-Eki, Dolphinfarm Shimanami, Sunrise Itoy...

Nara is widely known for its friendly deer, but did you know it’s also the ancient capital of Japan? Join Jason and Paul as they explore the many things to do and see in Nara! Topics Covered: History Central Nara: Heijo Palace —Toshodaiji Temple — Yakushiji Temple — Horyuji Temple Deer Nara Park: Kofukuji Temple — Nara National Museum — Yoshikien Garden — Isuien Garden — Todaiji Temple — Kasuga Ta...

Planning a trip to a foreign country can be a daunting task. Join Jason and Paul as they walk step by step through the planning process for their spring 2023 Japan trip! Topics Covered: Where to Start Passport/Visa Budget Booking a Flight Booking Hotels Assembling an Itinerary Finishing Touches

Come hang out with with Jason and Paul! All listeners are invited. If you happen to be in Tokyo on April 5th, 2023, stop by for a drink and a chat! Details: When: April 5th, 2023 at 7:00pm Where: Hitachino Brewing Lab in Akihabara, Tokyo ( Google Maps )( Website )

Join Jason and Paul as they interview Miyuki Seguchi, licensed travel guide and host of the Japan Experts podcast! Find Miyuki Seguchi Online: Grab  the FREE Japan Travel Guide: The 7 steps to creating your unique immersive experience Learn more about her Japan travel program  the Japan Travel Essentials Website Facebook Group Instagram Japan Experts Podcast

Martial arts have a long history in Japan, and over time they have evolved to integrate philosophical and religious ideas with the physical aspects of warfare. Join Jason and Paul as they explore the wide world of Japanese martial arts! Topics Covered: History Koryu Bujutsu: Sumo — Jujutsu — Swordsmanship (Kenjutsu, Battojutsu, Iaijutsu) — Naginatajutsu — Sojutsu — Shinobi no Jutsu Gendai Jutsu: J...

Jason and Paul will be in Japan in April and are announcing a meetup event in Tokyo! All listeners are invited. If you happen to be in Tokyo, stop by for a drink and a chat! Details: When: April 5th, 2023 at 7:00pm Where: Hitachino Brewing Lab in Akihabara, Tokyo ( Google Maps )( Website )