So Japanese
Welcome to So Japanese! Have you ever thought about visiting or living in Japan? Do you love Japanese culture? Then this podcast is for you! Join us, Ryusuke and Matt as we share our experiences and knowledge from a Japanese and foreign perspective. We introduce customs, culture, quirky facts, etiquette and language tips. If you like our content and want to buy us a coffee, click the link https://www.buymeacoffee.com/sojapanese Music by Johnny Ha https://johnnyfromthe.bandcamp.com For business inquiries please contact sojapanesepodcast@gmail.com Find us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/sojapanesepodcast, Youtube youtube.com/@sojapanesepodcast and TikTok http://tiktok.com/@sojapanesepodcast to suggest topics for us to talk about and to ask questions to be featured on the podcast! So Japaneseポッドキャストへようこそ！リュウスケとマットが日本について、働き方、旅行、住む際のアドバイスなど、二人の視点から話していきます。世界中の日本に興味のある人たちへ日本での楽しみ方、日本ならではの習慣、文化など、お役に立てる情報を１週間に1回配信しています。
Episodes
Japan is quietly changing—babies are fewer, and seniors are everywhere.
But how did it get this way? And why haven’t all those government plans worked?
In this episode, we untangle the causes of Japan’s declining birthrate and aging society through stories and insights.
日本は静かに変化しています——赤ちゃんの数は減り、お年寄りがどこにでもいます。でも、どうしてこんな社会になったのでしょう？そして、なぜこれまでの政府の対策はうまくいかなかったのでしょうか？このエピソードでは、日本の少子化と高齢化が進んだ原因を、ストーリーと考察を通じてひも解い...
On this episode of the So Japanese podcast we take a deep dive into tea ceremonies. We talk a bit about the history, how it is seen as a form of mediation and we describe the steps involved in a 4 hour tea ceremony.
今回のエピソードは、日本の伝統文化”茶道”について掘り下げていきます。茶道の歴史、瞑想の形態としてどのように見られているのか、そして、４時間の茶会にでの一つ一つのステップについて話していきます。是非最後までお楽しみ下さい。
https://linktr.ee/Sojapanese
Just like matcha, some stories are a little bitter, a little sweet. In this episode, we share memories, traditions, and moments tied to Japan’s favorite green tea—and now it’s become part of everyday life around the world!
抹茶のように、思い出も少し苦くて、少し甘い。今回のエピソードでは、日本の大切なお茶「抹茶」にまつわる記憶や現状、日常の中のささやかな瞬間をシェアします。そして今や、抹茶は世界中の日常にも溶け込んでいるんです。
https://linktr.ee/Sojapanese
- From Zero to Ghibli: Why Everyone’s Running to OpenAI
- One Scene, Four Seconds, Endless Heart – The Ghibli Way
- It’s Cute, It’s Ghibli-ish… But Is It Really You?
- Will Ghibli Sue?
- The Rise of AI Can’t Be Stopped – What Does This Mean for Creators?
- Mononoke Hime as an AI Live Action?
https://linktr.ee/Sojapanese
In Japan, April is more than just the start of spring—it’s the beginning of everything! From the iconic Nyūgakushiki (school entrance ceremonies) to Hanami parties under the cherry blossoms, this episode takes you through the nostalgic beauty of Japan’s new school year. Ryusuke shares personal April memories and why this season hits so different in Japan.
- Japan’s New School Year Kicks Off in April
- Ryusuke’s Nosta...
In this episode, we dive into Kenson (謙遜) — the Japanese art of humility. But what does it really mean to be humble in Japan? Is Kenson just being modest… or is it actually a kind of self-deprecation?
In this episode, we explore:
- What the heck is Kenson, really?
- Is being humble in Japan just... polite self-hate?
- Where did this whole mindset come from?
- Can being too humble mess with your brain?
- Why are Japanese artis...
Ever tasted freshly-picked bamboo shoots or crispy tempura made from wild mountain plants? In this episode, we uncover the hidden gems of Japan’s seasonal cuisine—sansai! Tune in for stories, recipes, and tips to bring authentic Japanese spring flavors to your table.
採れたてのタケノコや、サクサクの山菜天ぷらを味わったことはありますか？今回のエピソードでは、日本の春の味覚「山菜」の魅力をたっぷりご紹介します。季節感あふれるストーリーやレシピ、おうちで楽しめる調理のコツなどをお届け。ぜひ日本の春をあなたの食卓でも感じてみませんか？
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Ever wondered why some people seem to wake up full of purpose while the rest of us hit snooze five times? The secret might be Ikigai—Japan’s unique concept of a meaningful life. But forget the complicated life-coach diagrams! In this episode, we break it down the real Japanese way—through small joys, daily rituals, and things that make you smile (yes, even your morning coffee counts!). Tune in to discover what Ikigai...
Ever wondered why Japan is filled with colorful vending machines that dispense tiny capsule toys? In this episode, we dive into the world of Gacha Gacha (ガチャガチャ)—where the thrill of surprise meets collectible madness! From its origins and evolution to the most bizarre and sought-after items, we explore what makes these little toys so addictive. Whether you're a casual fan or a hardcore collector, this episode wi...
How far would you go for good luck? In Japan’s Hadaka Matsuri, thousands of nearly naked men rush through the cold, get drenched in freezing water, and battle for sacred objects—all in the name of fortune and tradition. In this episode, we explore the 3 biggest Hadaka Matsuri, from the rowdy Saidaiji Eyo in Okayama to the eerie Shin Otoko ritual in Aichi. What’s the meaning behind these wild celebrations, and why do ...
Ever wondered why so many shops and restaurants have a waving cat at their entrance? In this episode, we explore the origins of Maneki Neko, the famous Beckoning Cat of Japan. From legendary tales to the meanings behind different colors and poses, join us as we uncover the fascinating history and cultural significance of this beloved lucky charm.
お店やレストランの入り口で手を振る猫を見かけたことあると思います？今回のエピソードでは、日本の有名な招き猫の起源について探ります。隠された物語...
Imagine walking into a restaurant, only to be politely turned away—not because you lack a reservation, but because you're a first-time guest. This episode unpacks Kyoto’s Ichigen-san culture, explaining why exclusivity plays a vital role in these historic establishments and how you might one day get through their doors.
飲食店に足を踏み入れた瞬間、丁寧にお断りされる—それは予約がないからではなく、あなたが初めての来店だから。今回のエピソードでは、京都の「一見さん」文化を掘り下げ、なぜ歴史ある京都...
What makes Japanese hospitality so unique? In this episode, we dive into the concept of Omotenashi, exploring its meaning, origins, and how it shapes everyday interactions in Japan. Learn how this selfless service differs from hospitality in other cultures and discover ways to bring its thoughtful principles into your own life.
日本のおもてなしが特別な理由とは？今回のエピソードでは、「おもてなし」の概念に迫り、その意味や起源、そして日本の日常生活にどのように根付いているのかを探ります。他の文化...
Ever wondered why those two-tiered rice cakes with a tiny orange on top are everywhere in Japan during the New Year? Meet Kagami Mochi! In this episode, we unwrap the symbolism, history, and spiritual significance of this unique tradition—from Shinto rituals to hopes for family prosperity. Plus, we’ll tell you why you shouldn’t point a knife at it on January 11th!
日本のお正月に、なぜあの小さな橙が乗った二段重ねの鏡餅がどこにでもあるのか、不思議に思ったことはあ...
Join us for a culinary countdown to the Japanese New Year! Discover why soba is the noodle of choice, the golden secrets of Osechi Ryori, and the story behind rice cakes that house a deity. Plus, a peek into some modern twists, like cozy bowls of curry. It’s a feast for your ears (and your appetite)!
もぉいくつ寝ると、お正月～♪ 年越しにはなんでそばが選ばれるのか？いろいろな
意味合いが隠されたおせち料理の秘密、そして神様が宿る鏡餅のについての意味、食べ方など。さらには、リュウスケの家ではカレーがお正月に！？耳で...
We explore the rigorous 10-year training path to becoming a sushi chef in Japan. Is this time-honored tradition still relevant in the modern culinary world, or has it become an unnecessary barrier? Join us as we dive into the philosophy of shugyo (修行), the art of patience, and the growing debate between preserving tradition and adapting to contemporary culture.
日本で寿司職人になるためには、10年という厳しい修行の道を進まなければいけません！このように長年受...
Ready to soak your worries away in a Japanese hot spring? Hold up—there's an art to doing it right! In this episode, we spill the tea (or hot water) on essential onsen etiquette. From neatly folding your clothes to avoiding the dreaded "yu-atari," we’ve got tips to keep your soak drama-free and delightful. Whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned bather, this guide will have you looking like an ...
What does it mean to have an "oshi" and dedicate yourself to 推し活? In this episode, we break down the meaning of this viral term, its roots in Japanese fan culture, and why it has captured the hearts of millions. Discover how this phenomenon has shaped modern entertainment, influenced industries, and brought people together through shared passions.
「推し」がいる、推し活に専念するとはどういうことか？このエピソードでは、この話題の言葉の意味や、日本のファン...
Let’s talk comfort food—my ultimate edible time machine! From sprinkling furikake on rice as a kid to perfecting the art of Tamago Kake Gohan, and yes, cup noodles when I couldn’t wait for my lunch. Get ready for some delicious, feel-good chaos!
https://linktr.ee/Sojapanese
This episode delves into the essence of Japanese storytelling with three iconic folktales—Momotaro's heroic adventures, the moral lessons of The Monkey and the Crab, and the enduring kindness of Hanasaka Jiisan.
このエピソードでは、桃太郎の英雄的な冒険、「猿とカニ」の道徳的教訓、「花さかじいさん」の永続的な優しさという 3 つの象徴的な民話を取り上げ、日本の物語の真髄に迫ります。
https://linktr.ee/Sojapanese
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