Japan Station: A Podcast About Japanese Culture & the Japanese Language-logo

Japan Station: A Podcast About Japanese Culture & the Japanese Language

Arts & Culture Podcasts

Helping you understand everything you should know about Japan. Interviews with Japan experts, deep dives into Japanese culture and society, and plenty of laughs; every episode host Tony R. Vega sheds light on a different aspect of Japan. Whether you're planning a visit to Japan, learning Japanese or just have a passion for all things Japan, we've got something for you! Common topics include ・Japanese culture ・Deep dives into the Japanese language ・Japanese history ・Japanese food ・Japan travel tips ・Japanese pop culture: anime, manga, movies, etc ・The stories of foreigners living in Japan ・And more! Episodes release on the 1st and 21st of the month. You can reach us via email: mail@japankyo.com About Tony R. Vega Tony R. Vega is the founder of JapanKyo.com, creator of The Anime Linguist YouTube channel, professional MC, and lifelong Japan enthusiast. He has a particular passion for the Japanese language which led him to obtain an M.A. in Japanese language and linguistics from the University of Hawaii. Tony is also legally blind and dedicated to raising awareness of the blind and visually impaired, as well as the problems these individuals face.

Location:

United States

Description:

Helping you understand everything you should know about Japan. Interviews with Japan experts, deep dives into Japanese culture and society, and plenty of laughs; every episode host Tony R. Vega sheds light on a different aspect of Japan. Whether you're planning a visit to Japan, learning Japanese or just have a passion for all things Japan, we've got something for you! Common topics include ・Japanese culture ・Deep dives into the Japanese language ・Japanese history ・Japanese food ・Japan travel tips ・Japanese pop culture: anime, manga, movies, etc ・The stories of foreigners living in Japan ・And more! Episodes release on the 1st and 21st of the month. You can reach us via email: mail@japankyo.com About Tony R. Vega Tony R. Vega is the founder of JapanKyo.com, creator of The Anime Linguist YouTube channel, professional MC, and lifelong Japan enthusiast. He has a particular passion for the Japanese language which led him to obtain an M.A. in Japanese language and linguistics from the University of Hawaii. Tony is also legally blind and dedicated to raising awareness of the blind and visually impaired, as well as the problems these individuals face.

Language:

English


Episodes
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How Japanese terms get abbreviated! Explaining 4 mora words | Japan Station 181

11/1/2025
On this episode of Japan Station, we're talking about 4 more words in Japanese. What's a mora? And why are there so many four mora words in Japanese? We talk about all taht and more! 👉Topics Discussed jagaimo 👉Subscribe to the Podcast! Apple Podcasts: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/japan-station-a-podcast-by-japankyo-com/id1440454968Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6lDoFFt4M0HyyKaVeDyKkB 👉Support on Patreon & Ko-fi Support on PatreonKo-fi: https://www.ko-fi.com/japankyoVenmo: https://venmo.com/tonyrvegaPaypal.me: https://paypal.me/tonyrvega 👉Support on Patreon & Ko-fi Use my Mobal affiliate link to get a 10% discount on their voice & data plan. Their voice & data plan is perfect for those who want a Japanese phone number while in Japan. Using this link gets you a discount and it provides me with a small commission which I use to fund JapanKyo. Get 10% off Mobal's Voice & Data plan: https://www.mobal.com/tonyjapan 👉Links, Videos, Etc. No links this time. 👉Follow on Social Media X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/japankyonewsBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/tonyrvega.bsky.socialTony R. Vega Personal Instagram: https://instagram.com/tonyrvegaThe Anime Linguist YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@theanimelinguistJapan Station YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@japankyonewsWebsite: https://japankyo.com/Tony R. Vega Personal X/Twitter: https://x.com/thevegatony

Duration:00:16:33

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Tokyo Tourist Traps: Are these popular Tokyo destinations worth your time? | Japan Station 177

10/20/2025
On this episode of Japan Station, we talk about some of Tokyo's most popular tourist sites. Are they tourist traps or worth your time? We're also joined by stand up comedian and tour guide Shuhei "Shoe" Murakami. 👉Topics Discussed he observation deck on the 45th floor of Tokyo Metropolitan Main Building No. 1senbero kyacchi 👉Subscribe to the Podcast! Apple Podcasts: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/japan-station-a-podcast-by-japankyo-com/id1440454968Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6lDoFFt4M0HyyKaVeDyKkB 👉Support on Patreon & Ko-fi Support on PatreonKo-fi: https://www.ko-fi.com/japankyoVenmo: https://venmo.com/tonyrvegaPaypal.me: https://paypal.me/tonyrvega 👉Support on Patreon & Ko-fi Use my Mobal affiliate link to get a 10% discount on their voice & data plan. Their voice & data plan is perfect for those who want a Japanese phone number while in Japan. Using this link gets you a discount and it provides me with a small commission which I use to fund JapanKyo. Get 10% of Mobal's Voice & Data plan: https://www.mobal.com/tonyjapan 👉Links, Videos, Etc. Follow Shuhei Murakami on Instagram and check him out on YouTube @Japanese_StandupComedian: https://instagram.com/japanese_standupcomedianShuhei Murakami on YouTube: Shuhei Murakami Works Check out his first appreance on Japan Station: The Fascinating Life of Stand-Up Comedian Shuhei “Shoe” Murakami | Japan Station 45: https://japankyo.com/2020/08/about-shuhei-shoe-murakami/ This is the article this episode was inspired by. 8 Tourist Traps To Avoid In Times Square Read More: https://www.explore.com/1444465/tourist-traps-avoid-times-square/ 👉Follow on Social Media X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/japankyonewsBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/tonyrvega.bsky.socialTony R. Vega Personal Instagram: https://instagram.com/tonyrvegaThe Anime Linguist YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@theanimelinguistJapan Station YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@japankyonewsWebsite: https://japankyo.com/Tony R. Vega Personal X/Twitter: https://x.com/thevegatony

Duration:00:43:42

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Party in TOKYO! (November 1st at Pintology Tokyo)

10/18/2025
Hey guys! I'm holding another get together in Tokyo. This time it's to celebrate the end of the Kyushu Challenge. It will be on Nov 1st at 6 pm at Pintology Tokyo! Here is Pintology Tokyo's Instagram https://www.instagram.com/pintologytokyo/ I'll be back soon enough with the usual programming!

Duration:00:03:55

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What is wasei eigo? (Funny "Japanese" English) | Japan Station 179/Ichimon Japan 71

10/14/2025
This episode was originally broadcast as an episode of Ichimon Japan. On this episode of Ichimon Japan we ask: What is wasei eigo? (Funny "Japanese" English) Topics Discussed Listen to Ichimon Japan on [btn btnlink="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ichimon-japan-a-podcast-by-japankyo-com/id1492400997" btnsize="medium" bgcolor="#0568bf" txtcolor="#ffffff" btnnewt="1" nofollow="1"]Apple Podcasts[/btn] [btn btnlink="https://podcasts.google.com/?feed=aHR0cHM6Ly9pY2hpbW9uamFwYW4ubGlic3luLmNvbS9yc3M" btnsize="medium" bgcolor="#0568bf" txtcolor="#ffffff" btnnewt="1" nofollow="1"]Google Podcasts[/btn] [btn btnlink="https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/japankyocom/ichimon-japan-a-podcast-by-japankyocom" btnsize="medium" bgcolor="#0568bf" txtcolor="#ffffff" btnnewt="1" nofollow="1"]Stitcher[/btn] [btn btnlink="https://open.spotify.com/show/1ZVgnljVM8gcR1ar98eK0D" btnsize="medium" bgcolor="#0568bf" txtcolor="#ffffff" btnnewt="1" nofollow="1"]Spotify[/btn] [btn btnlink="https://www.iheart.com/podcast/263-ichimon-japan-a-podcast-by-59510504/" btnsize="medium" bgcolor="#0568bf" txtcolor="#ffffff" btnnewt="1" nofollow="1"]iHeartRadio[/btn] [btn btnlink="https://www.podbean.com/podcast-detail/mv3zr-ad2df/Ichimon-Japan-A-Podcast-by-Japankyo.com" btnsize="medium" bgcolor="#0568bf" txtcolor="#ffffff" btnnewt="1" nofollow="1"]PodBean[/btn] [btn btnlink="https://tunein.com/podcasts/Arts--Culture-Podcasts/Ichimon-Japan-A-Podcast-by-Japankyocom-p1290988/" btnsize="medium" bgcolor="#0568bf" txtcolor="#ffffff" btnnewt="1" nofollow="1"]Tunein[/btn] [btn btnlink="https://ichimonjapan.libsyn.com/rss" btnsize="medium" bgcolor="#0568bf" txtcolor="#ffffff" btnnewt="1" nofollow="1"]RSS[/btn] Support on Patreon & Ko-fi If you enjoy Ichimon Japan and want to ensure that we're able to produce more episodes, then please consider becoming a patron on Patreon.com. You can join for just $1 a month and that comes with perks like early access to episodes, a shout-out at the beginning of a future episode, bonus content, and discounts to Kimito Designs. For $3 a month you get all that plus access to Japanese Plus Alpha, a podcast produced by me (Tony Vega) that focuses on the Japanese language and its many quirks. Whether you are studying Japanese or just enjoy learning about language and linguistics, you'll enjoy Japanese Plus Alpha. And it goes without saying that if you sign up, you'll also get my undying gratitude. Thanks in advance! Support on Patreon If you would just like to do a one time contribution, then please go to our Ko-fi page. Support JapanKyo on Ko-fi Links, Videos, Etc. No links. We Want Your Questions Is there something about Japan that confuses you? Is there something about Japanese culture that you would like to learn more about? Is there something in Japanese history that you would like us to explain? We're always looking for new questions about Japan to answer, so if you have one, please send it to ichimon@japankyo.com. Special Thanks Opening/Closing Theme: Produced by Apol (YouTube, Twitter, Facebook, Fiverr) Ichimon Japan cover art: Produced by Erik R. Follow Japankyo on Social Media Facebook (@JapanKyoNews)Twitter (@JapanKyoNews)Instagram (@JapanKyoNews) Full Show Notes https:///japankyo.com/ichimonjapan

Duration:00:44:27

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Why LIES are RED in Japanese (Japanese idioms that use 赤/red) | Japan Station 178

10/6/2025
On this episode of Japan Station, we're talking about Japanese idioms involving the color red (赤, aka, seki). For example, have you ever wondered why lies are red in Japanese? Listen to find out! 👉Topics Discussed makka na usosekirara 👉Subscribe to the Podcast! Apple Podcasts: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/japan-station-a-podcast-by-japankyo-com/id1440454968Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6lDoFFt4M0HyyKaVeDyKkB 👉Support on Patreon & Ko-fi Support on PatreonKo-fi: https://www.ko-fi.com/japankyoVenmo: https://venmo.com/tonyrvegaPaypal.me: https://paypal.me/tonyrvega 👉Support on Patreon & Ko-fi Use my Mobal affiliate link to get a 10% discount on their voice & data plan. Their voice & data plan is perfect for those who want a Japanese phone number while in Japan. Using this link gets you a discount and it provides me with a small commission which I use to fund JapanKyo. Get 10% of Mobal's Voice & Data plan: https://www.mobal.com/tonyjapan 👉Links, Videos, Etc. None 👉Follow on Social Media X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/japankyonewsBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/tonyrvega.bsky.socialTony R. Vega Personal Instagram: https://instagram.com/tonyrvegaThe Anime Linguist YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@theanimelinguistJapan Station YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@japankyonewsWebsite: https://japankyo.com/Tony R. Vega Personal X/Twitter: https://x.com/thevegatony

Duration:00:24:21

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This documentary reveals why Japan is the way it is?! (Ema Ryan Yamazaki) | Japan Station 177

9/30/2025
On this episode of Japan Station, we're joined by documentary filmmaker Ema Ryan Yamazaki to talk about her latest documentary The Making of a Japanese and her latest short documentary Instrument of a Beating Heart. During the conversation we focus on the making of these films, what makes Japanese elementary schools unique, the role Japanese elementary schools play in shaping Japanese society, and more. 👉Topics Discussed The Making of a JapaneseInstruments of a Beating HeartInstruments of a Beating Heart 👉Subscribe to the Podcast! Apple Podcasts: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/japan-station-a-podcast-by-japankyo-com/id1440454968Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6lDoFFt4M0HyyKaVeDyKkB 👉Support on Patreon & Ko-fi Support on PatreonKo-fi: https://www.ko-fi.com/japankyoVenmo: https://venmo.com/tonyrvegaPaypal.me: https://paypal.me/tonyrvega 👉Support on Patreon & Ko-fi Use my Mobal affiliate link to get a 10% discount on their voice & data plan. Their voice & data plan is perfect for those who want a Japanese phone number while in Japan. Using this link gets you a discount and it provides me with a small commission which I use to fund JapanKyo. Get 10% off Mobal's Voice & Data plan: https://www.mobal.com/tonyjapan 👉Links, Videos, Etc. For more information about Ema Ryan Yamazaki and her work, check out her website and Instagram. Ema Ryan Yamazaki Website: https://www.emaexplorations.com/en/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emaexplorations/ To watch Instruments of a Beating Heart: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DRW0auOiqm4&t=2s https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DRW0auOiqm4&t=2s Check out Ema Ryan Yamazaki's previous appearance on the Japan Station podcast via the link below. Documenting the Intense World of Japanese High School Baseball (Ema Ryan Yamazaki) | Japan Station 54: https://japankyo.com/2020/12/about-koshien-japanese-high-school-baseball/ 👉Follow on Social Media X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/japankyonewsBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/tonyrvega.bsky.socialTony R. Vega Personal Instagram: https://instagram.com/tonyrvegaThe Anime Linguist YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@theanimelinguistJapan Station YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@japankyonewsWebsite: https://japankyo.com/Tony R. Vega Personal X/Twitter: https://x.com/thevegatony

Duration:00:51:14

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Supernatural Japan: A Spooky & Fun Japan Podcast!

9/22/2025
Check out the links below for more Supernatural Japan episodes! Supernatural Japan Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/supernatural-japan/id1616675498Supernatural Japan Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/35FkGE7Kc9bXFGpt37ZF2y

Duration:00:11:34

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How a Brit ended up designing FONTS in Japan | Japan Station 176

9/20/2025
On this episode of Japan Station, we're talking about the history of font design in Japan, the history of the Nintendo font and how Daniel Kaihatsu became a type face designer in Japan. 👉Topics Discussed 👉Subscribe to the Podcast! Apple Podcasts: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/japan-station-a-podcast-by-japankyo-com/id1440454968Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6lDoFFt4M0HyyKaVeDyKkB 👉Support on Patreon & Ko-fi Support on PatreonKo-fi: https://www.ko-fi.com/japankyoVenmo: https://venmo.com/tonyrvegaPaypal.me: https://paypal.me/tonyrvega 👉Support on Patreon & Ko-fi Use my Mobal affiliate link to get a 10% discount on their voice & data plan. Their voice & data plan is perfect for those who want a Japanese phone number while in Japan. Using this link gets you a discount and it provides me with a small commission which I use to fund JapanKyo. Get 10% of Mobal's Voice & Data plan: https://www.mobal.com/tonyjapan 👉Links, Videos, Etc. Check out the video about the history of the Nintendo font here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cm5bL1mmbS4&t=1137s https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cm5bL1mmbS4&t=1137s Follow Daniel Kaihatsu on social media and subscribe to the Kaihatsu YouTube channel YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Kaihatsu/videosX; @kaihatsuyt (https://x.com/KaihatsuYT)Bluesky: @kaihat.su (https://bsky.app/profile/kaihat.su) 👉Follow on Social Media X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/japankyonewsBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/tonyrvega.bsky.socialTony R. Vega Personal Instagram: https://instagram.com/tonyrvegaThe Anime Linguist YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@theanimelinguistJapan Station YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@japankyonewsWebsite: https://japankyo.com/Tony R. Vega Personal X/Twitter: https://x.com/thevegatony

Duration:00:56:28

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What's so scary about the hour of the ox? (About Ushi no Koku Mairi) | Japan Station 175/Ichimon Japan 21

9/14/2025
This was originally broadcast as episode 21 of Ichimon Japan. On this episode of Ichimon Japan we ask: What's so scary about the hour of the ox? Topics Discussed eto(ushi no koku)kimonushimitsudokiushi no koku mairi(wara ningō) Listen to Ichimon Japan on [btn btnlink="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ichimon-japan-a-podcast-by-japankyo-com/id1492400997" btnsize="medium" bgcolor="#0568bf" txtcolor="#ffffff" btnnewt="1" nofollow="1"]Apple Podcasts[/btn] [btn btnlink="https://podcasts.google.com/?feed=aHR0cHM6Ly9pY2hpbW9uamFwYW4ubGlic3luLmNvbS9yc3M" btnsize="medium" bgcolor="#0568bf" txtcolor="#ffffff" btnnewt="1" nofollow="1"]Google Podcasts[/btn] [btn btnlink="https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/japankyocom/ichimon-japan-a-podcast-by-japankyocom" btnsize="medium" bgcolor="#0568bf" txtcolor="#ffffff" btnnewt="1" nofollow="1"]Stitcher[/btn] [btn btnlink="https://open.spotify.com/show/1ZVgnljVM8gcR1ar98eK0D" btnsize="medium" bgcolor="#0568bf" txtcolor="#ffffff" btnnewt="1" nofollow="1"]Spotify[/btn] [btn btnlink="https://www.iheart.com/podcast/263-ichimon-japan-a-podcast-by-59510504/" btnsize="medium" bgcolor="#0568bf" txtcolor="#ffffff" btnnewt="1" nofollow="1"]iHeartRadio[/btn] [btn btnlink="https://www.podbean.com/podcast-detail/mv3zr-ad2df/Ichimon-Japan-A-Podcast-by-Japankyo.com" btnsize="medium" bgcolor="#0568bf" txtcolor="#ffffff" btnnewt="1" nofollow="1"]PodBean[/btn] [btn btnlink="https://tunein.com/podcasts/Arts--Culture-Podcasts/Ichimon-Japan-A-Podcast-by-Japankyocom-p1290988/" btnsize="medium" bgcolor="#0568bf" txtcolor="#ffffff" btnnewt="1" nofollow="1"]Tunein[/btn] [btn btnlink="https://ichimonjapan.libsyn.com/rss" btnsize="medium" bgcolor="#0568bf" txtcolor="#ffffff" btnnewt="1" nofollow="1"]RSS[/btn] Support on Patreon If you enjoy Ichimon Japan and want to ensure that we're able to produce more episodes, then please consider becoming a patron on Patreon.com. For a minimum pledge of $2 a month you'll get access to exclusive content and our eternal, profound, and undrying gratitude. Support on Patreon Sources, Links, Videos, Etc. There are various ways of referring to the old way of telling time used in Japan that was based on the 12 animals of the Chinese Zodiac. The two most common terms are kojikoku (古時刻) and jūnijishin (十二時辰). Much of the information this episode was based on was gathered from the Japanese-language sources below. Jūnijishin (十二時辰)昔の時間の古時刻・十二時辰とは?初刻や正刻の鐘の意味は Although it is not as thorough as the Japanese language articles above, the Japan Times article below does give some general information on the old Chinese Zodiac based system of telling the time that Japan used to use. Telling time with animals In the Chinese Zodiac-based way of telling time the day would start with the hour of the rat (ne no koku) and end with the hour of the boar (i no koku). Below you can see the terms used for all 12 animals/time divisions) and what two hour block each corresponds to. Also it should be noted that both English and Japanese-language sources are unclear on when exactly each two hour block of time begins. In general sources go with wording like "between 11 and 1," thus I have been unable to determine with 100% certainty if, for example, the last minute of the hour of the rat is 12:59 (which seems more likely) or 1:00. While this degree of precision was likely not a matter of concern for most people when this method of telling time was still being used, the question of when exactly each block of time ends is nevertheless one that remains and is unfortunately not solved in the information below. neushitorautatsumiumahitsujisarutoriinui Information about the two articles by Salvador Jimenez Murguia that were mentioned in this episode can be found below. Only the second article is accessible for free. The Cursing Kit of Ushi no Koku MairiCyber Execration: A Case Study of Ushi No Koku Mairi The link below is for a video about the "Curse Demon Association" (呪鬼会, Jujikai), which is, according to the...

Duration:00:53:21

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Kaze 風 vs Kaze 風邪! What's the difference?! | Japan Station 174

9/5/2025
On this episode of Japan Station, we're talking about the difference between the Japanese word kaze (cold, 風邪) and kaze (wind, 風). Why do they share the same pronunciation? Are they related? Or is this all just a big coincidence? Listen to find out! 👉Topics Discussed kazekazekaze kaze 👉Subscribe to the Podcast! Apple Podcasts: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/japan-station-a-podcast-by-japankyo-com/id1440454968Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6lDoFFt4M0HyyKaVeDyKkB 👉Support on Patreon & Ko-fi Support on PatreonKo-fi: https://www.ko-fi.com/japankyoVenmo: https://venmo.com/tonyrvegaPaypal.me: https://paypal.me/tonyrvega 👉Support on Patreon & Ko-fi Use my Mobal affiliate link to get a 10% discount on their voice & data plan. Their voice & data plan is perfect for those who want a Japanese phone number while in Japan. Using this link gets you a discount and it provides me with a small commission which I use to fund JapanKyo. Get 10% of Mobal's Voice & Data plan: https://www.mobal.com/tonyjapan 👉Links, Videos, Etc. None 👉Follow on Social Media X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/japankyonewsBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/tonyrvega.bsky.socialTony R. Vega Personal Instagram: https://instagram.com/tonyrvegaThe Anime Linguist YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@theanimelinguistJapan Station YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@japankyonewsWebsite: https://japankyo.com/Tony R. Vega Personal X/Twitter: https://x.com/thevegatony

Duration:00:21:15

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What to know BEFORE you move to Japan: SIM cards, phone numbers & more (Mobal CEO Declan Somers) | Japan Station 173

9/1/2025
On this episode of Japan Station, we're talking about some of the annoying things people have to deal with when moving to Japan. Our guest this time is the CEO of Mobal, Declan Somers. 👉Topics Discussed 👉Subscribe to the Podcast! Apple Podcasts: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/japan-station-a-podcast-by-japankyo-com/id1440454968Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6lDoFFt4M0HyyKaVeDyKkB 👉Support on Patreon & Ko-fi Support on PatreonKo-fi: https://www.ko-fi.com/japankyoVenmo: https://venmo.com/tonyrvegaPaypal.me: https://paypal.me/tonyrvega 👉Support on Patreon & Ko-fi Use my Mobal affiliate link to get a 10% discount on their voice & data plan. Their voice & data plan is perfect for those who want a Japanese phone number while in Japan. Using this link gets you a discount and it provides me with a small commission which I use to fund JapanKyo. Get 10% of Mobal's Voice & Data plan: https://www.mobal.com/tonyjapan 👉Links, Videos, Etc. If you'd like to get a Mobal voice & data SIM card, consider using my affiliate link! This will get you 10% off your order. Mobal Japan Voice & Data (Includes Japanese phone number) 👉Follow on Social Media X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/japankyonewsBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/tonyrvega.bsky.socialTony R. Vega Personal Instagram: https://instagram.com/tonyrvegaThe Anime Linguist YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@theanimelinguistJapan Station YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@japankyonewsWebsite: https://japankyo.com/Tony R. Vega Personal X/Twitter: https://x.com/thevegatony

Duration:00:56:22

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He SURVIVED a BEAR encounter in Japan! Talking about hiking in Tohoku with GoNorth Japan | Japan Station 172

8/20/2025
On this episode of Japan Station, we're talking to Quinlan from the GoNorth Japan YouTube channel about surviving a bear encounter in Japan, hiking in the Tohoku area of Japan and more. 👉Topics Discussed 👉Subscribe to the Podcast! Apple Podcasts: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/japan-station-a-podcast-by-japankyo-com/id1440454968Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6lDoFFt4M0HyyKaVeDyKkB 👉Support on Patreon & Ko-fi Support on PatreonKo-fi: https://www.ko-fi.com/japankyoVenmo: https://venmo.com/tonyrvegaPaypal.me: https://paypal.me/tonyrvega 👉Support on Patreon & Ko-fi Use my Mobal affiliate link to get a 10% discount on their voice & data plan. Their voice & data plan is perfect for those who want a Japanese phone number while in Japan. Using this link gets you a discount and it provides me with a small commission which I use to fund JapanKyo. Get 10% of Mobal's Voice & Data plan: https://www.mobal.com/tonyjapan 👉Links, Videos, Etc. Here are the links mentioned in this episode. GoNorth Japan Website: https://www.gonorthjapan.com/Quinlan/GoNorth Japan Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/quinlanGoNorth Japan YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/GoNorthJapanNorthern Japan Horizons: https://www.northernjapanhorizons.com/ Northern Japan Horizons TripAdvisor: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g298247-d33067862-Reviews-Northern_Japan_Horizons-Morioka_Iwate_Prefecture_Tohoku.html Here is the video where Quinlan talks about the bear encounter he survived. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MLuioUkC0GA 👉Follow on Social Media X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/japankyonewsBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/tonyrvega.bsky.socialTony R. Vega Personal Instagram: https://instagram.com/tonyrvegaThe Anime Linguist YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@theanimelinguistJapan Station YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@japankyonewsWebsite: https://japankyo.com/Tony R. Vega Personal X/Twitter: https://x.com/thevegatony

Duration:00:46:20

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Tales from the Tokaido Road: About the Tokaido Challenge | Japan Station 172/Ichimon Japan 78

8/14/2025
On this episode of Japan Station we ask: What was it like walking the Tokaido Road? NOTE: This is a re-broadcast of episode 78 of the Ichimon Japan podcast. Topics Discussed Listen to Ichimon Japan on [btn btnlink="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ichimon-japan-a-podcast-by-japankyo-com/id1492400997" btnsize="medium" bgcolor="#0568bf" txtcolor="#ffffff" btnnewt="1" nofollow="1"]Apple Podcasts[/btn] [btn btnlink="https://podcasts.google.com/?feed=aHR0cHM6Ly9pY2hpbW9uamFwYW4ubGlic3luLmNvbS9yc3M" btnsize="medium" bgcolor="#0568bf" txtcolor="#ffffff" btnnewt="1" nofollow="1"]Google Podcasts[/btn] [btn btnlink="https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/japankyocom/ichimon-japan-a-podcast-by-japankyocom" btnsize="medium" bgcolor="#0568bf" txtcolor="#ffffff" btnnewt="1" nofollow="1"]Stitcher[/btn] [btn btnlink="https://open.spotify.com/show/1ZVgnljVM8gcR1ar98eK0D" btnsize="medium" bgcolor="#0568bf" txtcolor="#ffffff" btnnewt="1" nofollow="1"]Spotify[/btn] [btn btnlink="https://www.iheart.com/podcast/263-ichimon-japan-a-podcast-by-59510504/" btnsize="medium" bgcolor="#0568bf" txtcolor="#ffffff" btnnewt="1" nofollow="1"]iHeartRadio[/btn] [btn btnlink="https://www.podbean.com/podcast-detail/mv3zr-ad2df/Ichimon-Japan-A-Podcast-by-Japankyo.com" btnsize="medium" bgcolor="#0568bf" txtcolor="#ffffff" btnnewt="1" nofollow="1"]PodBean[/btn] [btn btnlink="https://tunein.com/podcasts/Arts--Culture-Podcasts/Ichimon-Japan-A-Podcast-by-Japankyocom-p1290988/" btnsize="medium" bgcolor="#0568bf" txtcolor="#ffffff" btnnewt="1" nofollow="1"]Tunein[/btn] [btn btnlink="https://ichimonjapan.libsyn.com/rss" btnsize="medium" bgcolor="#0568bf" txtcolor="#ffffff" btnnewt="1" nofollow="1"]RSS[/btn] Support on Patreon & Ko-fi If you enjoy Ichimon Japan and want to ensure that we're able to produce more episodes, then please consider becoming a patron on Patreon.com. You can join for just $1 a month. Patrons get first access to podcast episodes, as well as updates on what I'm working on for JapanKyo.com. If you join the $3 a month tier you get access to the back catalog of the Japanese Plus Alpha podcast (a short series on interesting Japanese words and features of the Japanese language). If you would like to do a one time donation, that is also possible. Just use the Ko-fi link below. All donations are greatly appreciated! And if you can't support financially, that's ok. Consider telling a friend about the show! Support on Patreon Links, Videos, Etc. Check out the Tokaido Challenge video series on the JapanKyo YouTube! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zYU41Z0G4Uc&list=PL7ALB_S1KyWunL6kIbGu_Vtmswe1qxlHqTokaido Challenge Video Playlist: We Want Your Questions Is there something about Japan that confuses you? Is there something about Japanese culture that you would like to learn more about? Is there something in Japanese history that you would like us to explain? We're always looking for new questions about Japan to answer, so if you have one, please send it to ichimon@japankyo.com. Special Thanks Opening/Closing Theme: Produced by Apol (YouTube, Twitter, Facebook, Fiverr) Ichimon Japan cover art: Produced by Erik R. Follow Japankyo on Social Media Facebook (@JapanKyoNews)Twitter (@JapanKyoNews)Instagram (@JapanKyoNews) Full Show Notes https:///japankyo.com/ichimonjapan

Duration:00:58:52

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ANOTHER GIVEAWAY!!

8/12/2025
Follow me on Instagram and leave a comment on one of my latest post for a chance to win one of two $3 a month PLUS ALPHA tier Patreon memberships! @tonyrvega on Instagram: https://instagram.com/tonyrvega

Duration:00:02:30

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DON'T do these 8 things on trains in JAPAN! | Japan Station 170

8/6/2025
On this episode of Japan Station, we're talking about train etiquette in Japan. We're covering a recent Japanese survey that lists the 8 most irritating things people do on trains in Japan. 👉Topics Discussed 👉Subscribe to the Podcast! Apple Podcasts: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/japan-station-a-podcast-by-japankyo-com/id1440454968Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6lDoFFt4M0HyyKaVeDyKkB 👉Support on Patreon & Ko-fi Support on PatreonKo-fi: https://www.ko-fi.com/japankyoVenmo: https://venmo.com/tonyrvegaPaypal.me: https://paypal.me/tonyrvega 👉Support on Patreon & Ko-fi Use my Mobal affiliate link to get a 10% discount on their voice & data plan. Their voice & data plan is perfect for those who want a Japanese phone number while in Japan. Using this link gets you a discount and it provides me with a small commission which I use to fund JapanKyo. Get 10% of Mobal's Voice & Data plan: https://www.mobal.com/tonyjapan 👉Links, Videos, Etc. Sources used for this episode The 8 most annoying things people do on Japanese trains, according to local commuters (SoraNews24)Biz Hits Career Japan blog【電車通勤中にイラッとする人の特徴ランキング】男女500人アンケート調査 👉Follow on Social Media X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/japankyonewsBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/tonyrvega.bsky.socialTony R. Vega Personal Instagram: https://instagram.com/tonyrvegaThe Anime Linguist YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@theanimelinguistJapan Station YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@japankyonewsWebsite: https://japankyo.com/Tony R. Vega Personal X/Twitter: https://x.com/thevegatony

Duration:00:31:08

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Shikoku's 88 Temple Pligrimmage: What You Should KNOW (Kevin Tarpey) | Japan Station 169

7/31/2025
On this episode of Japan Station, Kevin Tarpey joins us to talk about what it was like doing Shikoku's famous 88 Temple Pilgrimmage and why Japan is such a great place for long-distance walking. 👉Topics Discussed 👉Subscribe to the Podcast! Apple Podcasts: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/japan-station-a-podcast-by-japankyo-com/id1440454968Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6lDoFFt4M0HyyKaVeDyKkB 👉Support on Patreon & Ko-fi Support on PatreonKo-fi: https://www.ko-fi.com/japankyoVenmo: https://venmo.com/tonyrvegaPaypal.me: https://paypal.me/tonyrvega 👉Support on Patreon & Ko-fi Use my Mobal affiliate link to get a 10% discount on their voice & data plan. Their voice & data plan is perfect for those who want a Japanese phone number while in Japan. Using this link gets you a discount and it provides me with a small commission which I use to fund JapanKyo. Get 10% of Mobal's Voice & Data plan: https://www.mobal.com/tonyjapan 👉Links, Videos, Etc. Don't forget to follow Kevin Tarpey on Instagram! @thegreenhoof (https://www.instagram.com/thegreenhoof/) 👉Follow on Social Media X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/japankyonewsBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/tonyrvega.bsky.socialTony R. Vega Personal Instagram: https://instagram.com/tonyrvegaThe Anime Linguist YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@theanimelinguistJapan Station YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@japankyonewsWebsite: https://japankyo.com/Tony R. Vega Personal X/Twitter: https://x.com/thevegatony

Duration:01:04:27

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She moved to this Japanese island to FARM INDIGO?! (Sally Hancox of AiAii) | Japan Station 168

7/21/2025
On this episode of Japan Station, we learn about traditional Japanese indigo dyeing from Sally Hancox, one of the co-owners of AiAii Worshop & Shop on Awaji island. This is a conversation to dye for! Sorry, I couldn't help myself. 👉Topics Discussed aizome 👉Subscribe to the Podcast! Apple Podcasts: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/japan-station-a-podcast-by-japankyo-com/id1440454968Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6lDoFFt4M0HyyKaVeDyKkB 👉Support on Patreon & Ko-fi Support on PatreonKo-fi: https://www.ko-fi.com/japankyoVenmo: https://venmo.com/tonyrvegaPaypal.me: https://paypal.me/tonyrvega 👉Support on Patreon & Ko-fi Use my Mobal affiliate link to get a 10% discount on their voice & data plan. Their voice & data plan is perfect for those who want a Japanese phone number while in Japan. Using this link gets you a discount and it provides me with a small commission which I use to fund JapanKyo. Get 10% of Mobal's Voice & Data plan: https://www.mobal.com/tonyjapan 👉Links, Videos, Etc. For more info an AiAii Workshop & Shop on Awaji, check out the links below AiAii Website: https://aiaii.blue/AiAii Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aiaii.blue/ 👉Follow on Social Media X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/japankyonewsBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/tonyrvega.bsky.socialTony R. Vega Personal Instagram: https://instagram.com/tonyrvegaThe Anime Linguist YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@theanimelinguistJapan Station YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@japankyonewsWebsite: https://japankyo.com/Tony R. Vega Personal X/Twitter: https://x.com/thevegatony

Duration:00:39:19

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How Japanese scandals EXPLODE! (Igor Prusa) | Japan Station 167

7/16/2025
On this episode of Japan Station, we talk about scandals in Japan. My guest Dr. Igor Prusa tells about how scandals in Japan work, how they surface and how entertainers/business people/politicians who get caught in scandals try to deal with them. This is a truly SCANDALOUS episode. Sorry, couldn't resist. 👉Topics Discussed 👉Subscribe to the Podcast! Apple Podcasts: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/japan-station-a-podcast-by-japankyo-com/id1440454968Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6lDoFFt4M0HyyKaVeDyKkB 👉Support on Patreon & Ko-fi Support on PatreonKo-fi: https://www.ko-fi.com/japankyoVenmo: https://venmo.com/tonyrvegaPaypal.me: https://paypal.me/tonyrvega 👉Links, Videos, Etc. Here is the link to the article by dragoner that was mentioned in this episode Scandal in Japan: Transgression, Performance and Ritual (Japan Anthropology Workshop Series) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ibHNq6ek6CI&list=RDibHNq6ek6CI&start_radio=1 👉Follow on Social Media X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/japankyonewsBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/tonyrvega.bsky.socialTony R. Vega Personal Instagram: https://instagram.com/tonyrvegaThe Anime Linguist YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@theanimelinguistJapan Station YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@japankyonewsWebsite: https://japankyo.com/Tony R. Vega Personal X/Twitter: https://x.com/thevegatony

Duration:00:49:53

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Why do Japanese train stations do that? | Japan Station 166/Ichimon Japan 03

7/9/2025
This episode was originally released as episode 3 of the Ichimon Japan podcast. Today's Question On this episode of Ichimon Japan we ask: Why do Japanese train stations do that? Topics Discussed WanmanresshaHasshameroseken no me Listen to Ichimon Japan on [btn btnlink="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ichimon-japan-a-podcast-by-japankyo-com/id1492400997" btnsize="medium" bgcolor="#0568bf" txtcolor="#ffffff" btnnewt="1" nofollow="1"]Apple Podcasts[/btn] [btn btnlink="https://podcasts.google.com/?feed=aHR0cHM6Ly9pY2hpbW9uamFwYW4ubGlic3luLmNvbS9yc3M" btnsize="medium" bgcolor="#0568bf" txtcolor="#ffffff" btnnewt="1" nofollow="1"]Google Podcasts[/btn] [btn btnlink="https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/japankyocom/ichimon-japan-a-podcast-by-japankyocom" btnsize="medium" bgcolor="#0568bf" txtcolor="#ffffff" btnnewt="1" nofollow="1"]Stitcher[/btn] [btn btnlink="https://open.spotify.com/show/1ZVgnljVM8gcR1ar98eK0D" btnsize="medium" bgcolor="#0568bf" txtcolor="#ffffff" btnnewt="1" nofollow="1"]Spotify[/btn] [btn btnlink="https://www.podbean.com/podcast-detail/mv3zr-ad2df/Ichimon-Japan-A-Podcast-by-Japankyo.com" btnsize="medium" bgcolor="#0568bf" txtcolor="#ffffff" btnnewt="1" nofollow="1"]PodBean[/btn] [btn btnlink="https://ichimonjapan.libsyn.com/rss" btnsize="medium" bgcolor="#0568bf" txtcolor="#ffffff" btnnewt="1" nofollow="1"]RSS[/btn] Sources, Links, Videos, Etc. You can support the show by donating via Venmo or Paypal. Venmo (@TonyRVega): https://venmo.com/tonyrvegaPaypal.me: http://paypal.me/tonyrvega You can check out the Citylab article that is mentioned multiple times during this episode via the link below. The Amazing Psychology of Japanese Train Stations As mentioned in this episode, Nogizaka Station on the Chiyoda Subway Line uses an adapted version of the Noguzaka46 song "Kimi no Na wa Kibō" (English translation: Your Name is Hope). You can listen to the original version of "Kimi no Na wa Kibō" via the YouTube video below. [embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9E2OXutknVY[/embed] Another song mentioned in this episode is "Yappa Sukiyanen" by Yashiki Takajin. Following the death of Takajin in 2014, an adapted version of this song was used for a period of time as the departure melody of JR Osaka Station. [embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9GrOq7VY7lM[/embed] The video below explores the question of whetherit is faster to stand or walk on an escalator. It finds that in theory about 80 people per minute can use an escalator when one side is reserved for walking. However, up to 112 people can use an escalator when people stand on both sides. [embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cX11cxeW6hA[/embed] You can check out the 2012 study that sparked the "blue light prevents suicide" craze via the link below. Note: many articles written after the publication of this study cite a 2013 study. However, this appears to be the same study and it is dated as 2012. It is possible that this is a preliminary version. Does the installation of blue lights on train platforms prevent suicide? A before-and-after observational study from Japan (By Tetsuya Matsubayashi, Yasuyuki Sawada, Michiko Ueda) Numerous researchers have looked into the results of the 2012/2013 blue light study since it was originally plublished. In doing so, they have called into question its results. One such researcher is Masao Ichikawa of the University of Tsukuba. You can read his 2014 follow-up study via the link below. Reconsidering the effects of blue-light installation for prevention of railway suicides Here is the 2019 BBC article mentioned during this episode that helpsput into doubt the idea that blue lights prevent suicide. Japanese train companies appeared to have found that soothing blue lights could reduce the rate of suicides at station. But does the "nudge technique" really work? And if so, how? If you would like to check out episode 31 of the Japan Station podcast, which focuses on the skakuhachi, check out the link below. Japan...

Duration:01:01:26

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WHICH is CORRECT? Funiki vs Fuinki (雰囲気) | Japan Station 165

7/1/2025
On this episode of Japan Station, we talk about the Japanese word funiki (雰囲気) and other words that aren't read the way they are written. 👉Topics Discussed funiki funiki funiki fun'iki fuinki manin zeninfuniki ikemen 👉Subscribe to the Podcast! Apple Podcasts: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/japan-station-a-podcast-by-japankyo-com/id1440454968Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6lDoFFt4M0HyyKaVeDyKkB 👉Support on Patreon & Ko-fi Support on PatreonSupport on Ko-fi https://www.ko-fi.com/japankyo 👉Links, Videos, Etc. This is the 2021 article I mention in the update portion of this episode. 「雰囲気」←“ふいんき”と読む時代が来る? 大学教授が指摘 「秋葉原」や「山茶花」など前例に 👉Follow on Social Media X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/japankyonewsBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/tonyrvega.bsky.socialInstagram: https://instagram.com/tonyrvegaThe Anime Linguist YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@theanimelinguistJapan Station YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@japankyonewsWebsite: https://japankyo.com/Tony R. Vega Personal X/Twitter: https://x.com/thevegatony

Duration:00:29:25