Sightseeing Japan

Japanese gardens are famous around the world for their ability to convey peace, harmony, and tranquility through the art of landscaping. Join Jason and Paul as they explore the ancient art of Japanese gardening! Topics Covered: History Elements of Japanese Gardens: Water — Stone — Bridges — Fish — Lanterns — Water Basins — Plants — Islands Aesthetic Principles: Miniaturization — Concealment — Borr...

Geisha are symbols of Japanese culture, beauty, and femininity. Join Jason and Paul as they discuss the magical "flower and willow world" of geisha! Topics Covered: What are Geisha? History How to Become a Geisha: Skills/Training — Maiko (Apprentice Geisha) — Appearance Where to Experience Geisha Culture

Sumo is an ancient martial art and the national sport of Japan. Join Jason and Paul as they explore the wild world of sumo wrestling! Topics Covered: History Sumo in Modern Japan How to Become a Rikishi (Sumo Wrestler) Sumo Match: Dohyo (Platform) — Attire — Rules — Prizes

Mount Fuji is a symbol of Japan and is one of the most famous volcanoes in the world. It even ties into the origins of the Shinto religion! Join Jason and Paul as they explore this beloved landmark. Topics Covered: Cultural Significance How to Climb What to Bring What Will You See? Aokigahara (Suicide Forest)

Temples and shrines are everywhere in Japan, but did you know that they are two distinct types of structures belonging to different religions? Join Jason and Paul as they discuss the significance of temples and shrines throughout the history of Japan! Topics Covered: Buddhism Shinto How is Religion Practiced History Buddhist Temples: Etiquette — Gardens — Jizo — Cemeteries — Omikuji (Fortune Telli...

Convenience stores in Japan have everything you could ask for! Join Jason and Paul as they discuss the convenience stores of Japan and why they are among the best in the world. Topics Covered: Food: Bread — Onigiri (Rice Balls) — Sandwiches — Bento — Instant Noodles — Sushi — Fruits and Veggies — Hot Foods — Snacks — Beverages Other Products Services: ATM — Multi-Use Terminal — Free Wifi — Takuhai...

Japan is known for having incredible cuisine! Join Jason and Paul as they discuss all kinds of Japanese food and where to find it! From fugu to okonomiyaki, there’s something for everyone! Topics Covered: Rice Traditional Food Tsukemono (Pickles) Sushi Noodles: Soba — Udon — Ramen Okonomiyaki Bento (Boxed Lunch) Tofu Yakitori (Skewered Chicken) Yakiniku (Grilled Meat) Curry Kaiseki Kobe Beef Shabu...

There are many options for transportation in Japan! Join Jason and Paul as they discuss the various modes of transportation: Walking, driving, trains, and buses! Topics Covered: Walking Car Bullet Trains (Shinkansen) JR Trains Private Train Lines Buses Paying for Public Transportation: JR Pass — IC Cards

Did you know that the oldest hotel in the world is in Japan? Join Jason and Paul as they discuss the different types of accommodations available in Japan! They cover all price ranges and styles: Internet cafes, capsule hotels, hostels, business hotels, luxury hotels, as well as traditional Japanese options like ryokan, minshuku, and shukubo! They even mention love hotels… Topics Covered: Manga Caf...

Join Jason and Paul as they discuss the airports of Japan! This episode focuses on the history of Haneda and Narita airports and what they are like today. Topics Covered: Main International Airports: Narita Int’l Airport — Haneda Airport Regional Airports: Kansai Int’l Airport (Osaka) — Chubu Centrair Int’l Airport (Nagoya) — New Chitose Airport (Sapporo) — Naha Airport (Okinawa) — Fukuoka Airport...

The Kansai region is the second most populated and second most visited area of Japan. Join Jason and Paul as they explore Osaka, Kyoto, Nara, and other amazing cities in Kansai! Topics Covered: History Culture: Food — Sake — Baseball Kyoto: Culture/Arts/History — Temples/Shrines — Festivals — Fushimi Sake District — Arashiyama (Bamboo Grove/Monkey Park) — Imperial Palace — Nijo Castle — Theatre/Ge...

The Kanto region is the most populated and most visited part of Japan. Join Jason and Paul as they explore the greater Tokyo area and the fun things to do there! Topics Covered: What is Kanto? Kanto Fureai Trail Tokyo: Harajuku (Fashion) — Akihabara (Electronics/Anime/Manga) — Asakusa (Museums/Temples/Gardens) — Shinjuku/Shibuya (Nightlife) — Odaiba (Malls/Entertainment/Convention Center) — Roppon...

Have you ever thought about going to Japan? Don’t know where to start? Join Jason and Paul as they discuss all the things to consider when planning a trip to Japan! Topics Covered: Time of year Passport Booking a flight Booking hotels Pocket Wifi (Affiliate link) JR Pass ( Affiliate link) Events Restaurants Money Language Etiquette Packing

Jason and Paul introduce themselves and the subject matter of the podcast.