Voices in Japan
244 episodes - English - Latest episode: about 16 hours ago - ★★★★★ - 44 ratingsDiscover what everyday life in Japan is REALLY like! Weekly podcast episodes with half-Japanese/half-American Burke (20 years in Japan), Ben from England (15 years in Japan), and Matt from Australia (18 years in Japan). All three of them are based in Hokkaido, which is Japan's #1 domestic travel destination! These guys and their guests share their experiences with dating, marriage, working at Japanese companies, teaching at all education levels, traditions, martial arts, the struggles of life here, and the reasons why Japan is truly an amazing place to be living!
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Episodes
Visit the 100 Demon Night Parade in Kyoto
April 19, 2024 02:00 - 36 minutes - 25 MBListen to this episode ad-free and exclusive content at https://www.patreon.com/voicesinjapan The guys discuss current news and events including the 100 Demon Night Parade in Kyoto, new tourism records in Japan, an update on Shohei Otani, and more. Enjoy! Sponsors: Bearfoot Bar Located in downtown Sapporo and within walking distance from the subway station. They have a variety of Japanese made and international craft beers bottled and on tap. A wide range of regular and unique spirits and...
Must see places in Kagoshima!
April 10, 2024 06:00 - 36 minutes - 25.3 MBThe boys take a closer look at the prefecture of Kagoshima. Get the true story behind the real 'Last Samurai'! Plus they discuss the must see island of Yakushima. They also talk about the mighty Sakurajima, one of Japans most active volcanoes. Other sightseeing spots not to miss and what unique foods to try in Kagoshima plus much more! Sponsors: MaruMori This site has everything you need to learn Japanese! It’s an all-in-one, guided, gamified Japanese learning experience with the aim to ...
Guiding Outdoor Adventures on Japanese TV
March 28, 2024 01:00 - 1 hour - 41.8 MBListen to this episode ad-free and exclusive content at https://www.patreon.com/voicesinjapan Dive Into the Wild Heart of Hokkaido with Greg Bruyere, a Canadian expat with a passion for the great outdoors! He joins Ben and Burke to talk about his journey of coming to Japan on a working holiday visa, and then gaining permanent residency through his passion for classical Japanese martial arts and weapons. But that's not all – his expertise in river rafting and canoeing has led him to some un...
Tips for Traveling Japan on a Budget
March 21, 2024 19:00 - 51 minutes - 35.4 MBBurke and Ben discuss some of the ways to save money while traveling in Japan. They talk about the best reasons to visit 100 yen shops, best places to shop, where to get cheap food, cheap accommodation and much much more. Sponsors: MaruMori This 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:/...
Do Japanese People Hate Traveling?
March 13, 2024 09:00 - 49 minutes - 34.2 MBListen to this episode ad-free and exclusive content at https://www.patreon.com/voicesinjapan Ben and Burke explore the reasons for why Japanese people become very stressed on airplanes and why less Japanese people are traveling overseas these days. They also review the success that a few Japan-related films achieved this week at the Academy Awards, the ongoing conflict in Japan with the movie Oppenheimer, and the recent passing of the creator of the world-famous Dragon Ball manga, anime, a...
11 Facts You Probably Didn’t Know About Tattoos in Japan
March 05, 2024 18:00 - 45 minutes - 31.4 MBListen to this episode ad-free and exclusive content at https://www.patreon.com/voicesinjapan In this episode, Ben, Burke and Matt talk about some interesting facts about tattoos in Japan, such as the thousand year history, the cultural significance in Hokkaido and Okinawa, association with the criminals and much much more. Sponsors: MaruMori This 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...
Japanese Foods for a Good Life
February 28, 2024 01:00 - 48 minutes - 33.7 MBListen to this episode ad free + exclusive episodes at https://www.patreon.com/voicesinjapan Ben, Matt, and Burke discuss the Japanese foods they've grown fond of since moving to the country, the Japanese foods they eat regularly, and the foods they refuse to try or dislike! Matt also talks about his luxury sushi experience and the fancy knives used by sushi chefs. This episode was recorded in response to a Patreon member's request. If you'd like to request certain content, please do so by ...
NEW BONUS EPISODE out now on Patreon!
February 25, 2024 19:00 - 1 minute - 757 KBhttps://www.patreon.com/posts/bonus-episode-99148616?utm_medium=clipboard_copy&utm_source=copyLink&utm_campaign=postshare_creator&utm_content=join_link Support the show
Poo Sakura at the Unko Museum in Tokyo
February 20, 2024 20:00 - 34 minutes - 24 MBListen to this episode ad free + exclusive episodes at https://www.patreon.com/voicesinjapan With the Sakura season just around the corner, Ben, Burke, and Matt talk about the Unko Museum’s cherry blossom festival in Tokyo. Other news the guys discuss is Asahi Breweries announcing that they will no longer launch chuhai (Canned fizzy cocktails) with alcohol content of 8% or higher. Sponsors: MaruMori This site has everything you need to learn Japanese! It’s an all-in-one, guided, gamifi...
Kyoto Prices, Uniqlo Crime, and New Work Visas
February 13, 2024 23:00 - 29 minutes - 20.5 MBListen to this episode ad free + exclusive episodes at https://www.patreon.com/voicesinjapan Episode summary: Ben and Burke take a look at special pricing for tourists and residents that could be coming soon to Kyoto, a years-long Uniqlo crime spree committed by some foreigners here in Japan, anti-foreigner sentiment in the country, and changes to the technical intern visa program. Sponsors: MaruMori This site has everything you need to learn Japanese! It’s an all-in-one, guided, gamifie...
Overtourism in Japan!
February 07, 2024 08:00 - 33 minutes - 23.3 MBListen to this episode ad free + exclusive episodes at https://www.patreon.com/voicesinjapan From the ski slopes of Hokkaido to climbing Mt. Fuji, Ben, Burke and Matt talk about overtourism in Japan plus other news that have made headlines! Burke and Matt relive their experiences climbing Mt. Fuji, and Ben talks about some shocking news. Sponsors: MaruMori This site has everything you need to learn Japanese! It’s an all-in-one, guided, gamified Japanese learning experience with the aim ...
What is Japanese Beauty?
January 31, 2024 03:00 - 41 minutes - 28.2 MBListen to this episode ad free + exclusive episodes at https://www.patreon.com/voicesinjapan Episode summary: A recent victory in the Miss Japan beauty pageant by Ukranian-born Carolina Shiino has many Japanese people very upset. Also, the movie "Oppenheimer" finally gets a release date (March 29) in Japan after internet memes with atomic bomb themes promoting the movie last year had severely offended locals in the country. Sponsors: MaruMori This site has everything you need to learn Ja...
Bad Influencers, Salarymen & Photo Taking in Japan
January 24, 2024 04:00 - 35 minutes - 24.4 MBDuring this episode, Ben and Matt talk about the latest news hitting Japan. This includes a look at bad influencers, airline troubles, finding a cheap lunch, salarymen plus a lot more! Sponsors: MaruMori This 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=vij Bea...
Japan’s Horendous Start to 2024
January 10, 2024 19:00 - 54 minutes - 37.2 MBBen, Burke, and Matt talk about the January 1st Earthquake in Ishikawa prefecture and the Japan Airlines crash at Haneda Airport the following day. Sponsors: MaruMori This 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=vij Bearfoot Bar Located in downtown Sappo...
The Big Fat Japan Quiz 2023!
December 20, 2023 23:00 - 1 hour - 51.6 MBOnce again Ben and Burke go head to head with Matt as the referee as we recap the year in Japan for 2023! How do you score against these two rising sun titans? What stories have headlined in Japan this year? Have a Happy and Safe New Year, from everyone at Voices in Japan!!! Sponsors: MaruMori This 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...
Essential Travel Tips to Know Before you Visit Japan
December 13, 2023 05:00 - 34 minutes - 23.7 MBBen, Burke and Matt discuss some important things to think about when planning your trip to Japan. Sponsors: MaruMori This 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=vij Bearfoot Bar Located in downtown Sapporo, walking distance from the subway station. The...
Are These Rumors About Living in Japan True?
December 08, 2023 03:00 - 30 minutes - 20.8 MBBen, Matt, and Burke try to discover the truth about well-known rumors related to everyday life in Japan. The country is renowned for its safety, cleanliness and distinctive customs, but what are the true reasons behind how Japanese society functions. Listen to find out now! Sponsors: MaruMori This 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...
Spice Things up With These 10 Japanese Drinking Games
November 29, 2023 19:00 - 32 minutes - 22.3 MBBen, Burke and Matt talk about some popular drinking games that Japanese people may play at parties or snack bars (bars with hostesses). Sponsors: MaruMori This 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=vij Bearfoot Bar Located in downtown Sapporo, walking...
10 Japanese Customs that Other Countries Need Now!
November 22, 2023 02:00 - 47 minutes - 32.8 MBBen, Matt and Burke discuss ten Japanese cultural practices that could significantly enhance life in other countries. From the deep respect for others' experiences to simple yet impactful customs, listen now to explore these fascinating insights and consider their potential in your own country! Sponsors: MaruMori This 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...
The Best Japanese Souvenirs to Buy
November 14, 2023 12:00 - 46 minutes - 31.9 MBBurke quizzes Ben and Matt on the top 15 souvenirs to buy in Japan, Ben explains his favorite Japanese topic to Google, and Matt reveals where he likes to go to experience real Japanese culture. Sponsors: MaruMori This 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...
2023 Halloween Special
November 07, 2023 00:00 - 52 minutes - 36.3 MBIn this special episode, Ben, Burke and Matt take a look at Halloween in Japan and recap Halloween 2023! We explore scary Japanese myths and creepy urban legends and folklore. Take a listen if you dare! Sponsors: MaruMori This 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/regist...
All 47 Prefectures in Japan Ranked for "Attractiveness"
October 25, 2023 19:00 - 53 minutes - 36.7 MBBen and Matt discuss the results of an annual online survey ranking Japan’s "attractive prefectures” conducted by Brand Research Institute, a private research company. The survey conducted in June and July received around 34,000 valid responses. Sponsors: MaruMori This 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...
Don't Answer that Telephone!
October 18, 2023 06:00 - 38 minutes - 26.4 MBWhen is it safe to answer the telephone in Japan, and when is it a very bad idea? Various phone scams have been on the rise, including calls from unlisted numbers, text messages, and Whatsapp messages. They all lead to a dubious end. The guys discuss scams they've experienced, overseas tourists getting into car accidents in Japan, thieves targeting drunk people on the street, and more! Sponsors: MaruMori This site has everything you need to learn Japanese! It’s an all-in-one, guided, gami...
Bears, Pro Wrestlers, and Fake Monks Terrorize Japan
October 10, 2023 08:00 - 52 minutes - 36 MBThe guys discuss Japan recent struggles with nature, bullet train promo campaigns, and deceit at Japanese temples. Sponsors: MaruMori This 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=vij Bearfoot Bar Located in downtown Sapporo, walking distance from the subwa...
Bears, Pro Wrestlers, and Fake Monks Cause Headaches for Japan
October 10, 2023 08:00 - 53 minutes - 36.6 MBThe guys discuss Japan recent struggles with nature, bullet train promo campaigns, and deceit at Japanese temples. Sponsors: MaruMori This 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=vij Bearfoot Bar Located in downtown Sapporo, walking distance from the subwa...
The Pathway to Representing Japan in Rugby
September 27, 2023 19:00 - 52 minutes - 36.1 MBRugby has gained immense popularity in Japan, especially after hosting the 2019 Rugby World Cup. Many aspiring players from around the world dream of representing Japan on the international stage. But how can one become eligible to don the famous cherry blossoms jersey? Ben and Burke explore what it takes for foreigners to become eligible to play rugby for the Japanese national team. Previous podcast episodes mentioned in the show: Rugby World Cup in Japan Part 1 Rugby World Cup in Japan P...
14 Ways Japanese People Know You're a Tourist
September 20, 2023 01:00 - 1 hour - 44.3 MBIn Japan, even the way you dress or the scent of your perfume can mark you as a foreign tourist. From gender interactions to surprising greetings, Matt and Burke discuss the subtle nuances of Japanese culture and social norms that often catch foreigners off-guard. Sponsors: MaruMori This 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 b...
Unraveling the Fascinating World of Katakana Words
September 11, 2023 19:00 - 59 minutes - 40.8 MBSpecial guest Yumi joins Ben and Matt on the podcast to talk about the captivating world of Katakana words! We'll explore how Katakana is used for loanwords, and foreign names, providing insights into how it enriches the Japanese language. Whether you're a beginner or an intermediate learner, this episode will help you understand and appreciate Katakana words in your Japanese language journey. Sponsors: MaruMori This site has everything you need to learn Japanese! It’s an all-in-one, guid...
13 Things to do Alone in Japan
August 29, 2023 19:00 - 1 hour - 42.4 MBJoin Ben, Burke, and Matt as we venture into the world of solo travel through the captivating landscapes of Japan. From sipping coffee on high-speed bullet trains to indulging in private ramen dining at Ichiran, we explore how solo travelers can immerse themselves in Japan's unique experiences. From historical insights in Hiroshima to racing Mario Karts through the streets, this episode is your guide to embracing solo travel with a twist in the Land of the Rising Sun. Sponsors: MaruMori T...
Japan's Best Food Festival
August 18, 2023 02:00 - 49 minutes - 34.2 MBBen, 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: MaruMori This site has everything you need to learn Japanese! It’s an ...
Cycling Hokkaido's Diverse Landscapes
August 11, 2023 02:00 - 1 hour - 41.3 MBSpecial guest Marty joins the pod to talk about cycling around Hokkaido. We talk about some of the cultural wonders that await every bend of Hokkaido’s coastline. Whether you're a seasoned cyclist or simply curious about the beauty of Japan's northern paradise, this episode will inspire you to hop on your bike and embark on your own unforgettable journey along the Sea of Japan. Some interesting links mentioned in the episode: Man in Collie dog costume Robot Wolf Hokkaido Cycling Tourism ...
Our Favorite Things About Japan!
August 01, 2023 07:00 - 40 minutes - 27.9 MBThis is the 200th episode of the podcast! Ben, Matt, and Burke celebrated by recording at the Beer Garden in Odori Park, which is in the middle of Sapporo City, along with a couple of friends who came to show their support. The group discussed their favorite aspects of living in Japan, including festivals, the safety and low crime rate, tipping culture, Japanese toilets, the people, and much more! There are some quiz questions and a lot of chugging delicious beverages under the blistering su...
10 Hidden Gems to Visit in Japan
July 23, 2023 19:00 - 47 minutes - 32.4 MBIn this episode, we venture beyond the well-trodden paths to reveal the quirky, artistic, and awe-inspiring side of Japan. Join us for an episode that celebrates Japan's boundless creativity, showcasing the Unko Museum's humorous charm, the natural marvel of the Blue Pond, the awe-inspiring miniatures at Small Worlds Tokyo, and much more. Check out this link to see some of the hilarious commercials featuring famous Hollywood stars that were mentioned in Burke’s mini quiz at the end of the...
9 Incredibly Strange Food Combinations!
July 13, 2023 00:00 - 55 minutes - 37.9 MBBen and Burke explore the fascinating world of Japanese cuisine by taking a close look at 9 bizarre food combinations, including wasabi beer and unagi (eel) cola. They also give an update on the massive police hunt for the culprit of a shocking and gruesome Sapporo love hotel murder, discuss the defacing of a 1,200-year-old temple in Nara by a 19-year old Canadian tourist, a clothing rental service being offered by Japan Airlines for travelers coming to Japan, the heavy rains and flooding th...
Shocking Crime Occurs in Sapporo!
July 05, 2023 09:00 - 50 minutes - 34.5 MBBen, Matt, and Burke discuss a shocking crime that recently occurred in Sapporo, and the culprit is still on the loose! They also look at the reasons for why they have chosen to stay in Japan long-term, discuss Japan's decision to start releasing the treated water at the Fukushima nuclear power plant, the legend of Hachiko the dog, and the laws regarding public photography in Japan. Voices in Japan sponsors: Bearfoot Bar Located in downtown Sapporo, walking distance from the subway statio...
Top 10 Challenges for Tourists in Japan
June 26, 2023 21:00 - 54 minutes - 37.7 MBJapan is one of the most popular destinations in the world for tourists. However, foreign travelers face a number of challenges while visiting according to a survey conducted by the Japanese travel website Good Luck Trip. Listen now to find out the best solutions to the top 10 inconveniences you will face if you visit Japan! Recommended website for registering for mobile payment apps: The Best Payment Apps for Foreigners in Japan Voices in Japan sponsors: Bearfoot Bar Located in downtow...
Unraveling Japan’s Peculiar Charms
June 19, 2023 23:00 - 51 minutes - 35.2 MBBen, Burke and Matt delve into the enigmatic oddities that make Japan truly unique. Prepare to be amazed as we uncover the remarkable and unconventional aspects that set this country apart. From love hotels to outlandish pizza toppings, Japan offers a world unlike any other. We talk about mesmerizing traditions, astonishing inventions, and immerse ourselves in unforgettable experiences that defy expectations. Japan never ceases to surprise and delight. Enjoy the show! Sponsors: Bearfoot B...
Are These 9 Customs Unique to Japan?
June 08, 2023 14:00 - 38 minutes - 26.7 MBBen, Matt, and Burke discuss 9 sustainable habits from this article that are practiced by the Japanese. These habits include minimalism, appreciating imperfections, upcycling, recycling, energy conservation, and more. The Japanese have embraced these habits as a way to minimize their environmental impact and promote a more sustainable lifestyle. Sponsors: Bearfoot Bar Located in downtown Sapporo, walking distance from the subway station. There are variety of Japanese made craft bottled b...
Insider Tips for Securing Accommodation in Japan
May 31, 2023 19:00 - 46 minutes - 31.7 MBBen Burke, and Matt embark on an exciting journey through the maze of renting accommodation in Japan. Join us as we uncover insider tips, share personal experiences, and provide valuable advice on navigating the unique intricacies of finding a place to live. This episode will equip you with the knowledge and insights to find your perfect home away from home in Japan. Sponsors: Bearfoot Bar Located in downtown Sapporo, walking distance from the subway station. There are variety of Japan...
Can AI Help You Prepare for Life in Japan?
May 26, 2023 06:00 - 49 minutes - 34 MBBen, Matt, and Burke test the responses from ChatGPT about preparing for life in Japan, including visa requirements and cultural differences that foreigners will have the most trouble adjusting to after moving to the country. Listen now to find out if the responses provide reliable information! Sponsors: Bearfoot Bar Located 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...
Things Most People don't know about the Japanese Emperor
May 16, 2023 19:00 - 47 minutes - 32.7 MBBen and Matt talk about the new COVID rules in Japan, promotional ideas to grow bullet train (Shinkansen) users, and some very interesting things about the Japanese Emperor that most people don’t know. Sponsors: Bearfoot Bar Located 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 Japan...
Traveling in Kyushu and Working as a Male Host
May 10, 2023 10:00 - 44 minutes - 30.9 MBThis episode provides an extensive look at Burke's recent family trip to Fukuoka (a large metropolitan city in Kyushu) and Beppu (a top hot spring destination in Japan), and Ben explains details about working at a male host club (bars and nightclubs that provide male companionship and entertainment to women in exchange for money.) Sponsors: Bearfoot Bar Located in downtown Sapporo, walking distance from the subway station. There are variety of Japanese made craft bottled beers. A wide ra...
Watch out for These Deadly Animals in Japan
May 04, 2023 19:00 - 55 minutes - 37.9 MBWith Burke away on holiday (again!), Ben and Matt hold down the fort and discuss the most dangerous animals living in Japan that visitors (and residents) should be wary of when travelling around Japan. Stay safe! Sponsors: Bearfoot Bar Located 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 Englis...
Is Japan Late to the AI Game?
April 30, 2023 23:00 - 44 minutes - 30.4 MBWith the fast development of ChatGPT-4 and AI, Ben, Burke, and Matt discuss the issues that Japan face. Other news talked about in today's include a bar maid being fired for doing something weird to a drink, and the bungled assassination "attempt" of Japan's Prime Minster Kishida. Enjoy! Sponsors: Bearfoot Bar Located 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 ...
7 Ways Japanese and Westerners are Complete Opposites
April 17, 2023 10:00 - 51 minutes - 35.5 MBIt's been a while, but Matt, Ben, and Burke are all back recording together on this episode! After some omiyage (souvenir) gift giving from Matt's trip to Australia, they look at seven ways that Japanese and Westerners are complete opposites as described in an article from Live Japan. Sponsors: Bearfoot Bar Located 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 coc...
Cherry Blossom Madness!
April 07, 2023 01:00 - 42 minutes - 29.2 MBWith Ben away on vacation, Matt takes the opportunity to educate Burke on the top-10 cherry blossom viewing spots in Japan because, well, the activity of cherry blossom viewing rules the news at this time of year. Also in the news, very loud and impolite political campaigning for current elections, and also a new (and almost strict) law about riding bicycles in Japan. Sponsors: Bearfoot Bar Located in downtown Sapporo, walking distance from the subway station. There are variety of Japan...
The Best Ways to Spend Your Free Time in Japan
March 28, 2023 13:00 - 51 minutes - 35.6 MBWhile Matt is still on vacation, Ben and Burke look at the news about flying taxis, a strange new dish from Domino’s Pizza in Japan that is covered with an egg sauce, and Coca-Cola's newest alcoholic drink in Japan, an official Jack and Coke. Then, they dive deep into the most enjoyed hobbies by Japanese people and how those compare with the most popular hobbies for Western people. And who takes their hobbies more seriously, Japanese or Westerners? Sponsors: Bearfoot Bar Located in downto...
Sushi Shops Strike Back!
March 20, 2023 20:00 - 44 minutes - 30.8 MBBen and Burke catch up on the latest developments in the ongoing saga of sushi terrorists versus "kaiten zushi" (conveyor belt sushi) restaurants in Japan. Arrests have been made, AI cameras have been installed, and the service level has dropped. Ben and Burke also discuss their recent visits to some chain sushi restaurants in Japan and the changes they've noticed, and also discover the most popular sushi dishes of Japanese people! Sponsors: Bearfoot Bar Located in downtown Sapporo, walki...
Understanding Akira Kurosawa's High and Low
March 12, 2023 19:00 - 57 minutes - 39.5 MBSpecial guest and friend Danny joins Ben and Matt on the podcast to break down and discuss one of Akira Kurosawa's lesser known but still great movies, High and Low. WARNING: there are spoilers! Sponsors: Bearfoot Bar Located 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 spe...
Space Balloon Tourism and Japanese People Struggling to Love Work
March 01, 2023 14:00 - 42 minutes - 29.3 MBBen, Matt, and Burke discover a space balloon tourism company in their very own city of Sapporo! Meanwhile, Matt recently visited one of Hokkaido's most popular festivals in the port city of Otaru and calms Ben's fears of any possible fire hazards at the festival. Then Ben dives deep into understanding why Japanese people continue to hate their jobs in Japan. Do the guys feel the same? Listen to find out now! Sponsors: Bearfoot Bar Located in downtown Sapporo, walking distance from the su...