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

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.

What you should know about KUMAMON (+ my CRAZY Kumamon story) | Japan Station 188 12/20/2025

What you should know about KUMAMON (+ my CRAZY Kumamon story) | Japan Station 188 On this episode of Japan Station, we talk all about Jaan's most famous "local mascot" Kumamon. We cover everything you should know about Kumamoto's most beloved bear. I also share an absolutely crazy story that happened to me when I went to see the Kumamon show in Kumamoto in the fall os 2025. 👉Topics Discussed About Kumamon How Kumamon was created The history of Kumamon Who created Kumamon How Kumamon used to look quite different when he was first unveiled How Kumamon's appearance changed About Kumamon's creepy appearance About the Osaka press conference that introduced Kumamon to the world How much money Kumamon has generated over the past 15 yeas What the name Kumamon means About yurukyara/local mascots About the unique free license system Kumamoto used to help popularize Kumamon What the name Kumamon means How Kumamoto police are using Warumon (a Kumamon knock off) to raise awareness of scams/crimes About the (almost) daily free Kumamon show iin Kumamoto at Kumamon Sqaure My absolutely insane Kumamon story And much more! 👉Subscribe to the Podcast! 👉Support on Patreon & Ko-fi Support for as little as $1 a month to get early access to episodes, ad free versions and occassional bonus content https://patreon.com/japankyo Support via a one time donation! 👉Affiliate Links 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. 👉Links, Videos, Etc. Here is a screenshot of a photo of what the Kumamon suit looked like when it was first created. As you can see, the head appears to be mostly the same but the body is skinnier and has fur. The suit also appears to be baggier. As a result, this gives Kumamon a somewhat unsettling appearance. This image is from . 👉Follow on Social Media /episode/index/show/japanstation/id/39438275

Understanding Christmas in Japan (About Japanese Christmas) | Japan Station 187/Ichimon Japan 67 12/09/2025

Understanding Christmas in Japan (About Japanese Christmas) | Japan Station 187/Ichimon Japan 67 This is a re-broadcast of episode 65 of the Ichimon Japan podcast (originally published on 12/21/2022). On this episode of Ichimon Japan we ask: What is Christmas like in Japan? (About Japanese Christmas) Topics Discussed All about Christmas in Japan Japanese Christmas customs in Japan All about fried chicken and Christmas in Japan Why KFC is the thing to eat during Christmas in Japan How Christmas is seen as a romantic holiday in Japan Christmas light displays About reserving KFC fried chicken for Christmas About KFC's Premium Roast About Christmas cake in Japan The first Christmas in Japan in 1552 And much more! 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! If you would just like to do a one time contribution, then please go to our Ko-fi page. Links, Videos, Etc. None 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 . Special Thanks Opening/Closing Theme: Produced by Apol (, , , ) Ichimon Japan cover art: Produced by Erik R. Follow Japankyo on Social Media Full Show Notes /episode/index/show/japanstation/id/39346595

Hanakin: What does it mean? (Dead Japanese Slang) | Japan Station 186 12/02/2025

He WALKED 3200 km across ALL of JAPAN! (Sensei Martian) | Japan Station 185 11/28/2025

I walked across KYUSHU! Here's what happened (Kyushu Challenge Wrap Up) | Japan Station 184 11/20/2025

How I got my CHEAPEST Japan ticket EVER! | Japan Station 183 11/14/2025

The STUPIDEST belief about Japanese sleep habits EVER! (About Pillows in Japan) | Japan Station 182/Ichimon Japan 76 11/07/2025

The STUPIDEST belief about Japanese sleep habits EVER! (About Pillows in Japan) | Japan Station 182/Ichimon Japan 76 This is a rebroadcast of episode 76 of Ichimon Japan. On this episode of Ichimon Japan we talk about the history of pillows in Japan and an absurd belief regarding the sleeping Topics Discussed About the history of pillows in Japan About early pillows in Japanese history About the evolution of pillows in Japan About pillows during the Edo Period About hakomakura (box pillows) About the oldest pillow in Japan X About stereotypes regarding Japanese people versus Westerners About the idea Japanese people have longer intestines than Westerners About Sobagawa/Sobakawa buchwheat pillows About dakimakura (hug pillows) About anime waifu dakimakura About the Shironeri Ayano Oomakura (the oldest pillow in Japan) in Shosoin Temple in Nara About the mistaken idea that Japanese people sleep on their sides due to being an agricultural society About Japan's unique status as the only place in the world with four seasons About nihonjinron And much more! 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! https://patreon.com/japankyo Support on Ko-fi https://www.ko-fi.com/japankyo Links, Videos, Etc. No links this time. 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 . Special Thanks Opening/Closing Theme: Produced by Apol (, , , ) Ichimon Japan cover art: Produced by Erik R. Follow Japankyo on Social Media Full Show Notes /episode/index/show/japanstation/id/38946605

How Japanese terms get abbreviated! Explaining 4 MORA words | Japan Station 181 11/01/2025

Tokyo Tourist Traps: Are these popular Tokyo destinations worth your time? | Japan Station 180 10/21/2025

Party in TOKYO! (November 1st at Pintology Tokyo) 10/18/2025

What is wasei eigo? (Funny "Japanese" English) | Japan Station 179/Ichimon Japan 71 10/15/2025

What is wasei eigo? (Funny "Japanese" English) | Japan Station 179/Ichimon Japan 71 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 What wasei eigo is About English sounding words made in Japan tenshon ga takai pākā How SNS is not English arubaito nōtopasokon buraindotacchi misu misesu rippukurīmu hocchikisu OL sararīman (salaryman) shīchikin interi haiso furonto hōmu chakku majikkutēpu majikku majikkumirā Gpan jampāsukāto wagomu atakku faito charenji And much more! 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! If you would just like to do a one time contribution, then please go to our Ko-fi page. 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 . Special Thanks Opening/Closing Theme: Produced by Apol (, , , ) Ichimon Japan cover art: Produced by Erik R. Follow Japankyo on Social Media Full Show Notes /episode/index/show/japanstation/id/38190525

Why LIES are RED in Japanese (Japanese idioms that use 赤/red) | Japan Station 178 10/07/2025

This documentary reveals why Japan is the way it is?! (Ema Ryan Yamazaki) | Japan Station 177 10/01/2025

This documentary reveals why Japan is the way it is?! (Ema Ryan Yamazaki) | Japan Station 177 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 About the making of the documentary The Making of a Japanese About the making of the short documentary Instruments of a Beating Heart What makes Japanese elementary schools unique Cleaning at Japanese elementary schools The good and bad of Japanese elementary schools The practice of having students serve lunch Discipline at Japanese elementary schools Teachers at Japanese elementary schools The difficulties of filming a documentary at a Japanese elementary school About getting nominated for an Oscar for Instruments of a Beating Heart And much more! 👉Subscribe to the Podcast! 👉Support on Patreon & Ko-fi Support for as little as $1 a month to get early access to episodes, ad free versions and occassional bonus content https://patreon.com/japankyo Support via a one time donation! 👉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. 👉Links, Videos, Etc. For more information about Ema Ryan Yamazaki and her work, check out her website and Instagram. 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. 👉Follow on Social Media /episode/index/show/japanstation/id/38289010

Supernatural Japan: A Spooky & Fun Japan Podcast! 09/23/2025

How a Brit ended up designing FONTS in Japan | Japan Station 176 09/21/2025

How a Brit ended up designing FONTS in Japan | Japan Station 176 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 Why Daniel Kaihatsu became interested in learning Japanese How Daniel Kaihatsu became interested in Japanese font design About doing research for videos in Japanese language About copyright and fair use in Japan About copyright and fair use for fonts in Japan About doing YouTube while working at a Japanese company How the Pop Happiness font sparked Daniel Kaihatsu's interest in font design About creating an original font inspired by Pop Happiness About working on the "Showa" revival font About the history and development of the Japanese Nintendo logo (Marufuku logo) How designing the Show revival font helped Daniel Kaihatsu get a job as a font designer at a company in Japan About getting interviewed for a job at a Japanese font design company About kamon and kakujimon About the kakuji style About Edo era Japanese logos About the Edo period Nintendo/Marufuku logo About the Lawson logo About the Pokemon Scarlet & Violet logos How Japanese fonts are designed The difficulties of Japanese type design How long it can take to design a Japanese font And much more! 👉Subscribe to the Podcast! 👉Support on Patreon & Ko-fi Support for as little as $1 a month to get early access to episodes, ad free versions and occassional bonus content https://patreon.com/japankyo Support via a one time donation! 👉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. 👉Links, Videos, Etc. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cm5bL1mmbS4&t=1137s Follow Daniel Kaihatsu on social media and subscribe to the Kaihatsu YouTube channel 👉Follow on Social Media /episode/index/show/japanstation/id/38110705

What's so scary about the hour of the ox? (About Ushi no Koku Mairi) | Japan Station 175/Ichimon Japan 21 09/15/2025

What's so scary about the hour of the ox? (About Ushi no Koku Mairi) | Japan Station 175/Ichimon Japan 21 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 All about Japan's old way of telling time that was based on the 12 animals of the Chinese Zodiac (eto) Which "animals" in the old Chinese Zodiac based way of telling time correspond to which hours in the modern way of telling time Why the "hour of the ox" (ushi no koku) was thought to have associations with demons and inauspicious things What a "demon gate" (kimon) is In which direction you would find a kimon (demon gate) What ushimitsudoki is and what time it corresponds to The punctual nature of demons What ushi no koku mairi is How people performing ushi no koku mairi are typically depicted today The historical origins of ushi no koku mairi The story of Uji no Hashihime The various tools involved when placing a curse on someone ushi no koku mairi style The potentially deadly consequences of catching someone in the act of performing ushi no koku mairi Websites/companies that offer to places curses on your behalf Whether performing ushi no koku mairi or cursing someone is illegal in Japan Two actual cases of people threatening others using straw dolls (wara ningō) Why you could get arrested if you were to perform a full ushi no koku mairi ceremony How you can purchase ushi no koku mairi kits from online retailers like Amazon Japan One man's attempt to curse the coronavirus ushi no koku mairi style And more! 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. 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. This is the Japanese-language Wikipedia entry. This is an in-depth article focusing on the old system used in Japan for telling time. 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. 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. 11:00 p.m - 1:00 a.m. Rat 子 (鼠) ne 1:00 a.m. - 3:00 a.m. Ox 丑 (牛) ushi 3:00 a.m. - 5:00 a.m. 寅 (虎) tora 5:0 am. - 7:00 a.m. Rabbit 卯 (兎) u 7:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. Dragon 辰 (竜) tatsu 9:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. Snake 巳 (蛇) mi 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Horse 午 (馬) uma 1:00 p.m. -3:00 p.m. Sheep 未 (羊) hitsuji 3:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. Monkey 申 (猿) 酉 saru 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Rooster 酉 (鳥) tori 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.9:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m. Dog 戌 (犬) inu 9:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m. Boar 亥 (猪) i 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 link below is for a video about the "Curse Demon Association" (呪鬼会, Jujikai), which is, according to the video, a group of Shinto priests that will curse people for you in exchange for money. The link below will take you to the Nikkan Spa article mentioned in this episode. The article describes one person's attempt to curse the coronavirus using ushi no koku mairi in order to stop the pandemic. Although the article is in Japanese, it's worth a look even if can't read Japanese since he pictures are pretty amusing. Here is a staged video of a couple guys claiming to have come across someone performing ushi no koku mairi. [embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PGKRCIgWHhA[/embed] Here is the tutorial style video mentioned in this episode. The video walks you through the the entire process of cursing someone using a home kit that you can purchase online. [embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LyAvy9s5e3w[/embed] To listen to the latest episode of Japan Station, use the link below. Japanese Vocabulary List Most episodes feature at least one or two interesting Japanese words or phrases. Here’s some of the ones that came up on this episode. All information is from Eto 干支【えと; かんし】 (n) (1) sexagenary cycle (60-year cycle of 12 animal zodiac and 5 elements in the traditional Chinese calendar); (2) 12-year Chinese zodiac Ushi no koku mairi 丑の刻参り【うしのこくまいり】 (exp,n) cursing ritual where one visits a shrine at 2am and nails a doll representing a person to a tree, praying for said person's death Hakamairi 墓参り : 墓参り(P); 墓参(P) 【はかまいり(P); ぼさん(墓参)】 (n,vs) visit to a grave Ushimitsudoki 丑三つ時【うしみつどき】 (n) (1) dead of night; middle of the night; midnight; (2) (See 丑の刻) third quarter of the hour of the ox Wara ningyō 藁人形 : 藁人形; わら人形; ワラ人形【わらにんぎょう(藁人形,わら人形); ワラにんぎょう(ワラ人形)】 (n) straw doll; straw figure; straw effigy Kyōhaku 脅迫【きょうはく】 (n,vs) threat; menace; coercion; terrorism 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 . Special Thanks Opening/Closing Theme: Produced by Apol (, , , ) Ichimon Japan cover art: Produced by Erik R. Follow Japankyo on Social Media Full Show Notes /episode/index/show/japanstation/id/38190640

Kaze 風 vs Kaze 風邪! What's the difference?! | Japan Station 174 09/06/2025

What to know BEFORE you move to Japan: SIM cards, phone numbers & more (Mobal CEO Declan Somers) | Japan Station 173 09/01/2025

What to know BEFORE you move to Japan: SIM cards, phone numbers & more (Mobal CEO Declan Somers) | Japan Station 173 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 About visiting Japan for the first time About moving to Japan and working in a Japanese company in the late '90s Japan in the '90s versus Japan today About job possibilities for foreigners in Japan today About moving to Japan today About how difficult it can be finding a hotel in Tokyo Why you need a phone number as soon as possible when you move to Japan About the trouble getting Japanese apps from the Apple app store Why you should change your region setting to Japan before moving to japan What ti's like ordering a Mobal SIM card About setting up a bank account in Japan About Mobal's data and voice plan About the Mobal Pay card About sign up bonuses for Japanese apps About point cards and points in Japan About the 99% population coverage claim made by Japanese cell service providers About Mobal's charitable work About Mobal's pocket wifi service And much more! 👉Subscribe to the Podcast! 👉Support on Patreon & Ko-fi Support for as little as $1 a month to get early access to episodes, ad free versions and occassional bonus content https://patreon.com/japankyo Support via a one time donation! 👉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. 👉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. 👉Follow on Social Media /episode/index/show/japanstation/id/38043955

He SURVIVED a BEAR encounter in Japan! Talking about hiking in Tohoku with GoNorth Japan | Japan Station 172 08/20/2025

He SURVIVED a BEAR encounter in Japan! Talking about hiking in Tohoku with GoNorth Japan | Japan Station 172 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 About bear attacks and encounters in Japan How to prevent encounters with bears while hiking in Japan Whether bear bells and whistles are effective in warding off bears About Quiinlan's encounter with a bear while hiking in Morioka, Iwate Prefecture What to do if a bear attacks you while hiking in Japan Why bear attacks have increased in Japan in recent years Whether you should yell at a bear who attacks you in Japan About the matagi About hunters in Japan About the need to keep the deer population under control in Japan About the effort to keep the bear population under control in Japan About hiking Yarigatake About kitadake, the second highest mountain in Japan About Mount Iwate Recommendation for places to hike in Tōhoku About Mount Akita Komagatake About Hachimantai Why Quinlan moved to the Tōhoku area of Japan About the MCT 1000 km trail along the Tōhoku coast About Quinlan's custom 1 day adventure tours About Northern Japan Horizons About the Volcano Adventure Experience tour And much more! 👉Subscribe to the Podcast! 👉Support on Patreon & Ko-fi Support for as little as $1 a month to get early access to episodes, ad free versions and occassional bonus content https://patreon.com/japankyo Support via a one time donation! 👉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. 👉Links, Videos, Etc. Here are the links mentioned in this episode. Here is the video where Quinlan talks about the bear encounter he survived. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MLuioUkC0GA 👉Follow on Social Media /episode/index/show/japanstation/id/37896775

Tales from the Tokaido Road: About the Tokaido Challenge | Japan Station 171/Ichimon Japan 78 08/15/2025

Tales from the Tokaido Road: About the Tokaido Challenge | Japan Station 171/Ichimon Japan 78 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 About the Tokaido Challenge About what it was like walking the Tokaido Road About the challenges of walking the Tokaido Road About what it was like walking from Kyoto to Tokyo About getting stopped by police in Kyoto About walking along the Shizuoka coast How long it took to walk the Tokaido And much more! 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! https://patreon.com/japankyo Support on Ko-fi https://www.ko-fi.com/japankyo Links, Videos, Etc. Check out the Tokaido Challenge video series on the JapanKyo YouTube! 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 . Special Thanks Opening/Closing Theme: Produced by Apol (, , , ) Ichimon Japan cover art: Produced by Erik R. Follow Japankyo on Social Media Full Show Notes /episode/index/show/japanstation/id/37830625

ANOTHER GIVEAWAY!! 08/12/2025

DON'T do these 8 things on trains in JAPAN! | Japan Station 170 08/06/2025

Shikoku's 88 Temple Pligrimmage: What You Should KNOW (Kevin Tarpey) | Japan Station 169 08/01/2025

Shikoku's 88 Temple Pligrimmage: What You Should KNOW (Kevin Tarpey) | Japan Station 169 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 Why Japan is such a great place for long-distance walking About the famous Shikoku 88 temple pilgrimmage (Ohenro, お遍路) What it's like walking the 88 temple pilgrimmage How long it took to walk the 88 temple pilgrimmage in Shikoku How much distance Kevin covered per day while doing the 88 temple pilgrimmage About getting blisters while walking the 88 temple pilgrimmage About the importance of pacing yourself while doing long-distance walks The customs surrounding the 88 temple pilgrimmage About the stampbook/passport used while on the 88 temple pilgrimmage About the "traditional" clothing pilgrims often wear while doing the 88 temple pilgrimmage Why you should use the hakui/vest while doing the 88 temple pilgrimmage About the custom of Osettai About walking on roads in japan About walking the most rural area of the 88 temple pilgrimmage About the official English guidebook for the 88 temple pilgrimmage About the importance of preparing for a long-distance walk Memorable experiences on the 88 temple pilgrimmage About walking Cape Muroto About eating paella at the lodging on Cape Muroto About booking accomodations while on the 88 temple pilgrimmage What accomodations might cost while on the 88 temple pilgrimmage About "free lodging" on the 88 temple pilgrimmage About henro huts How knowing some Japanese can enrich your experience on the 88 temple pilgrimmage About the finishing the 88 temple pilgrimmage About th Hagi Okan and what it is like walking it About Kevin's upcoming walks About liquid intake and bathroom planning while on long-distance walking And much more! 👉Subscribe to the Podcast! 👉Support on Patreon & Ko-fi Support for as little as $1 a month to get early access to episodes, ad free versions and occassional bonus content https://patreon.com/japankyo Support via a one time donation! 👉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. 👉Links, Videos, Etc. Don't forget to follow Kevin Tarpey on Instagram! 👉Follow on Social Media /episode/index/show/japanstation/id/37630175

She moved to this Japanese island to FARM INDIGO?! (Sally Hancox of AiAii) | Japan Station 168 07/21/2025

How Japanese scandals EXPLODE! (Igor Prusa) | Japan Station 167 07/16/2025

Why do Japanese train stations do that? | Japan Station 166/Ichimon Japan 03 07/09/2025

Why do Japanese train stations do that? | Japan Station 166/Ichimon Japan 03 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 The train system in rural areas versus urban areas in Japan Trains in Kagoshima and Ishikawa What a Wanmanressha (one man trains) is Unmanned rural train stations Why Japanese train stations use cute songs to indicate a train is about to depart Hasshamero (train departure melodies) The use of Nogizaka46's song "Kimi no Na wa Kibō" as a train departure melody The logic behind train departure melodies A brief history of train departure melodies in Japan How the song "Yappa Sukiyanen" by Uashiki Takajin was adapted into a train departure melody after his death in 2014 How Osaka locals prefer to use "Umeda" when referring the the area in and around JR Osaka Station Why there are lines and numbers on the train platforms How to line up when waiting for a train Women only train cars The use of high-pitched noises (17 khz) to disperse people loitering at train stations in Japan Standing versus walking on escalators How Japanese railway companies are trying to get people to only walk on escalators Japanese people's reluctance to stop walking on escalators Why standing on escalators can be faster than walking Why Japanese train stations use blue LED lights on platforms The claim that blue LED lights are extremely effective at preventing suicide The role of seken no me (世間の目, the public gaze/the eye of society) on Japanese trains and at Japanese train stations Train etiquette The claim that cell phones interfere with pacemakers Putting on makeup on Japanese trains How there's a part-time job in Nagoya where people stand on the escalator all day in order to stop people from walking on escalators And more! 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. You can check out the Citylab article that is mentioned multiple times during this episode via the link below. 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. 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. Here is the 2019 BBC article mentioned during this episode that helpsput into doubt the idea that blue lights prevent suicide. If you would like to check out episode 31 of the Japan Station podcast, which focuses on the skakuhachi, check out the link below. If you want to learn even more about Japanese tains, then you should check out the Japankyo article below. 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 . Special Thanks Opening/Closing Theme: Produced by Apol (, , , ) Ichimon Japan cover art: Produced by Erik R. Follow Japankyo on Social Media /episode/index/show/japanstation/id/37344900

WHICH is CORRECT? Funiki vs Fuinki (雰囲気) | Japan Station 165 07/01/2025

Do Japanese people have longer intestines than Westerners? | Japan Station 164/Ichimon Japan 02 06/24/2025

Do Japanese people have longer intestines than Westerners? | Japan Station 164/Ichimon Japan 02 This episode of Japan Station is a rebroadcast of episode two of Ichimon Japan. On this episode of Ichimon Japan we ask: Do Japanese people have longer intestines than Westerners? Topics Discussed Whether Japanese people have longer intestines than Westerners The idea that longer intestines are a result of the Japanese people having a diet centering around rice, grains, and vegetables The inconsistent details surrounding the idea that Japanese people have longer intestines than Westerners Andy Raskin's quest to determine if Japanese people have longer intestines than Westerners The stealing of corpses in Meiji period Japan The idea that longer intestine length produces more excrement The connection between the length of one's intestines and the smelliness of one's poop How much longer the Japanese intestinal tract is said to be than that of Westerners What both Japanese sources and English-language sources have to say on the length of Japanese intestines The importance of skepticism The results of a large scale scientific study that compares the length of the intestines of Japanese people and Westerners The idea that intestine length is connected to the darkness of one's skin And more! Note: During the episode some information is attributed to a Reddit thread. This is inaccurate. The information attributed to said Reddit thread was instead found on news.ycominator.com. 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 check out the article by Andy Raskin via the link below. Here is the article published on World Projects Japan. This article is in Japanese During the episode some information was attributed to a Reddit thread. However, this is wrong. Any information that was attributed to this nonexistent Reddit thread was actually from news.ycombinator.com. You can access this page via the link below. The information regarding the idea that shortening one's intestines results in lighter skin also originated from the page above. The text below was posted to by someone using the name slyall on August 24, 2015. No other information was found to support this claim. "I remember reading a story (at least 20 years ago) that some women in Japan were getting their intestine shortened in order to lighten their skin. No ghits sorry but from memory once the intestine was shortened the skin started to magically lighten." The 2013 study titled "Colorectal Length in Japanese and American Asymptomatic Adults Based on CT Colonography" (Japanese: 日本人とアメリカ人の大腸の長さは違うのか? : 大腸3D-CT) can be accessed via the link below. The article is in Japanese. An English translation of the objectives and results of the study can be found . If you would like to check out episode 30 of the Japan Station podcast, which focuses on the idea of "otaku" and the history of Akihabara, please check out the link below. 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 . Special Thanks Opening/Closing Theme: Produced by Apol (, , , ) Ichimon Japan cover art: Produced by Erik R. Follow Japankyo on Social Media /episode/index/show/japanstation/id/37130290

The REAL Reason Japan doesn't have public TRASH CANS! They're LYING TO YOU! | Japan Station 163 06/21/2025

The REAL Reason Japan doesn't have public TRASH CANS! They're LYING TO YOU! | Japan Station 163 On this episode of Japan Station, we talk about why there's so few trash cans in public places in Japan. Despite what many sources say the 1995 sarin gas attack in Tokyo is not the reason there are so few trash cans in public places in Japan. It's actually more complicated than that. While yes, it is true that there was a reduction in the amount of trash cans in some places in Japan--particularly the subway line targeted by Aum Shinrikyo during the sarin gas attack--many of these trash cans were reinstalled some time after the attack. Further trash cans were not used during the attack itself. So you simply cannot say that the sarin gas attack was the direct cause for Japan's lack of public trash cans. In reality, it's a combination of things that resulted in Japan severely reducing the amount of trash cans in public places. One reason is concerns over people dumping trash they aren't supposed to dump in public trash cans. Concerns over crows and other animals causing messes when they try to get food from public trash cans also played a role. In terms of security concerns, athough the sarin gas attack no doubt traised concerns it was the 2004 and 2005 terrorist attacks in London and Spain that actually had a direct impact on the number of public trash bins in Japan. Finally, efforts to cut costs on the part of Japanese railways and other private businesses also play a significant role in the disappearance of Japan's public garbage cans. We also discuss strategies for managing your trash while you are in Japan, where you can find trash cans in Japan and what people in Japan are doing to deal with the increase in trash and litter that has resulted from increased tourism. 👉Topics Discussed Why there aren't any trash cans in public places in Japan? Why it is not true that the 1995 sarin gas terrorist attack conducted by Aum Shinrikyo in Tokyo is not the reason Japan has so few trash cans in public places About the failed 1995 hygrogen cyanide gas attack in Shinjuku Station (新宿駅青酸ガス事件, Shinjuku eki seisan gasu jiken) which was also conducted by members of Aum Shinrikyo Whether trash cans were removed from Japanese train stations after the 1995 sarin gas attack Whether garbage cans in public places were common in Japan during the '90s and 2000s The fact taht trash cans were reinstalled some time after the 1995 sarin gas attack Why municipalities across Japan have been trying to reduce the number of trash cans in public since the '90s People dumping trash they shouldn't in public trash cans How concerns over crows have played a role in the disappearance of public trash cans in Japan How the 2004 and 2005 London and Madrid terrorist attacks played a role in the disappearance of Japan's public trash cans How efforts to cut costs played a role in Japan's trash cans being reduced in number What you should do with your trash when visiting Japan Where to find trash cans in Japan About Japanese trash culture and manners What people in Japan are doing in places where increased tourism has resulted in more trash and littering And much more! 👉Subscribe to the Podcast! 👉Support on Patreon & Ko-fi https://patreon.com/japankyo 👉Links, Videos, Etc. Here is the link to the article by dragoner that was mentioned in this episode 👉Follow on Social Media /episode/index/show/japanstation/id/37097280

Why are vegetables so insulting in Japanese? | Japan Station 162/Ichimon Japan 14 06/16/2025

Why are vegetables so insulting in Japanese? | Japan Station 162/Ichimon Japan 14 This episode of Japan Station is a rebroadcast of Ichimon Japan episode 12. On this episode of Ichimon Japan we ask: Why are vegetables so unsulting in Japanese? On this episode we are honored to once again be joined by Kyle Broyles of the Tokyo Splosion podcast and Hard Officers YouTube channel. Topics Discussed Some funny Japanese vegetable-based insults and their (supposed) etymologies What the term daikon ashi means Why daikon ashi is so insulting and reserved only for use on women The usage of the term "dumpling legs" What the term daikon yakusha means Why daikon yakusha is considered an insult Why it's insulting to call someone a bean sprout (moyashi) in Japanese What it means to "stink of potatoes" (to be imokusai) What a "country milkboy" is What an "embankment pumpkin" is (dote kabocha) The most commonly cited story explaining the insulting meaning of the term dote kabocha A tip for training yourself to like vegetables Interesting Japanese slang involving the the Japanese word for eggplant (nasu) What the term bokenasu means Why it is insulting to be called a bokenasu What the heck an otankonasu is Two theories for where the "otanko" part of otankonasu derived from The most common etymologies of the term otankonasu The potential connection between otankonasu and Edo period pleasure districts Bubble era Japanese slang How pīman (green pepper) was used as an insult in Japan in the 1970s The difficulties localizers face when translating idioms from Japanese into English Whether the Japanese word for "vegetable" (yasai) totally overlaps in meaning with its English counterpart Why there seem to be more vegetable-related insults in Japanese than fruit-related insults And more! Note: All of the etymologies provided during this episode were found in Japanese language sources and are the most commonly cited. However, just because they are the most commonly cited etymologies that does not mean they are true, so please keep this in mind. 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] 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. Kyle Broyles Links This episode features Kyle Broyles as a special guest. If you would like to follow him on Twitter, please use the link below. Kyle is one of the hosts of the Tokyo Splosion podcast. If you would like to check his podcast out, you can look it up wherever you get your podcasts or use the links below. The latest episode of Tokyo Splosion as of the time of this posting can be found below. Kyle also produces the YouTube series Hard Officers. Check out the channel via the link below. Sources, Links, Videos, Etc. Here's a link to the previous episode Kyle Broyles was a guest on. Just to review, here's a list of all the insults that were covered on this episode, including how you write them in Japanese. Daikon ashi 大根足 : 大根足; 大根脚【だいこんあし】 (n) thick legs; fat legs; cankle; cankles (literally: daikon radish legs) Daikon yakusha 大根役者【だいこんやくしゃ】 (n) (yoji) ham actor; hack actor (literally: daikon radish actor) Moyashi もやし (n) bean sprouts (in certain contexts it can also be used to mean as an insult meaning lanky, gangly or frail) Moyashikko もやしっ子【もやしっこ】 (n) weak child; frail child; gangly child Imokusai イモくさい【いもくさい】 (n) country bumpkin; unsophisticated; hick (literally to stink of potatoes) Dote kabocha どてかぼちゃ (n) incompetent person; halfwit; blockhead; fool (literally: embankment pumpkin) Bokenasu ぼけなす (n) (1) faded, dull-colored eggplant; (2) (derog) slow-witted, abstracted person; halfwit Otankonasu おたんこなす (n) fool; twit; idiot; bird-brain Atama ga pīman (Note: This term was popular in the 1970s and is rarely, if ever, used today.) 頭がピーマン【あたまがぴーまん】 stupid; dumb (literally: your head is a green pepper) Hanashi ga pīman 話がピーマン【はなしがぴーまん】 what you are saying is stupid/pointless (literally: what you are saying/your story is a green pepper.) If you'd like to check out episode 38 of Japan Station, you can do so via the link below. If you missed the Japanese study tips episode of Ichimon Japan, check out the article below. Japanese Vocabulary List Most episodes feature at least one or two interesting Japanese words or phrases. Here’s some of the ones that came up on this episode. All information is from Yasai 野菜【やさい】 (n,adj-no) vegetable Kudamono 果物 : 果物(P); 菓物【くだもの(P); かぶつ(果物)】 (n) fruit Oden おでん (n) (food) oden; dish of various ingredients, e.g. egg, daikon, potato, chikuwa, konnyaku, etc. stewed in soy-flavored dashi Shokuatari 食あたり : 食あたり; 食中り【しょくあたり】 (n) food poisoning Shokubutsu 植物【しょくぶつ】 (n) plant; vegetation Emoi エモい (adj-i) (1) (sl) emo; sad; melancholic; (2) (sl) (pun on エロい and キモい) (See エロい,キモい) erotic in a disgusting way Inakakusai 田舎臭い : 田舎臭い; 田舎くさい【いなかくさい】 (adj-i) rustic; unsophisticated; provincial; hick; cornball Ume 梅 : 梅(P); 楳【うめ(P); むめ(ok); ウメ】 (n) (1) Japanese apricot (Prunus mume); Japanese plum; ume; Chinese plum Tnkō 炭坑 : 炭鉱(P); 炭坑; 炭礦【たんこう】 (n) coal mine; coal pit 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 . Special Thanks Opening/Closing Theme: Produced by Apol (, , , ) Ichimon Japan cover art: Produced by Erik R. Follow Japankyo on Social Media Full Show Notes /episode/index/show/japanstation/id/37022285

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

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