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Voices in Japan (Voices in Japan)

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DateTitreDurée
19 Mar 2019Do Japanese Students Really Study That Hard?00:32:44

Japanese students are mega busy. Many of them go to school 6 days a week! They join school clubs, go to cram school, AND they have homework. It’s not cruisy like their western counterparts.

Get in Touch:

https://twitter.com/voicesinjapan

https://www.facebook.com/voicesinjapan/

https://www.instagram.com/voicesinjapan/

email: voicesinjapan@gmail.com

Support the show

15 Feb 2022Dark Days for French Fry Fans in Japan00:58:30

Back in December 2021, Macdonald’s restaurant in Japan suspended sales of all French fry orders except smalls due to a problem with its potato imports. Japan get their fries imported from the U.S. and Covid-19 has resulted in supply issues. Following this other competitors such as Freshness Burger and Mos Burger got in on the action by offering more french fries to their customers. We talk about the whole saga and also compare the variety of menus  from Macdonald’s around the world.  Enjoy the show!

Sponsors:

Bearfoot Bar

Located in downtown Sapporo, walking distance from the subway station. There are  variety of Japanese made craft bottled beers. A range of whiskeys and basic cocktails also available. Burgers and pub style snacks. Friendly English and Japanese speaking staff.  https://www.facebook.com/bearfootbar
 

The Red House 

Located in the heart of Rusutsu Ski Resort, just cross the main road and it’s behind the Seicomart Convenience store. The restaurant features a mix of Japanese, Asian fusion, and western Style dishes, including shabu-shabu with wagyu beef and Hokkaido wagyu beef steak. Open winter and summer, 12-3pm for lunch, 5-9pm for dinner, with prices ranging from under Yen 1000 to about Yen 5000. https://theredhouse.jp/


 Rusutsu Lodges

Open all year round. Located 5 minutes walk to the main Rusutsu Ski Resort Gondola. There are Japanese, Western, and apartment style rooms with breakfast packages available. There’s a Japanese sento (public bath), two convenience stores less than a minute walk, ski room and tune up tables, plenty of free parking space, and summer BBQ packages available. Check out the website for more information and availability. http://rusutsulodges.com


 Hokkaido Guide

Established over 10 years ago, written by locals for locals and international tourists. The guide contains information on all types of businesses and locations around Hokkaido. There's information regarding all things Hokkaido such as sightseeing, nightlife, events, services, food and restaurants, entertainment, outdoor activities, and more. Currently offered in English and Thai, advertising space available. Check out website for everything you need to know about this beautiful prefecture. https://hokkaidoguide.com


Use our Buzzsprout affiliate link to start your podcast today!
 
Website:

https://www.voicesinjapan.com/
Follow us and check out our other content:

https://twitter.com/voicesinjapan

https://www.facebook.com/voicesinjapan/

https://www.instagram.com/voicesinjapan/

Get in touch: 

voicesinjapan@gmail.com

Support the show

27 Mar 2019Mastering The Japanese Language!00:42:27

Having lived in Japan for a combined 25 years, how much have our podcasters mastered Japanese?  Find out now as they discuss overcoming the struggles of learning kanji, give great advice on studying techniques like finding a Japanese girlfriend or memorizing numerous conversations from textbooks, grinding it out to pass the Japanese proficiency tests, and much more!

Get in Touch:

https://twitter.com/voicesinjapan

https://www.facebook.com/voicesinjapan/

https://www.instagram.com/voicesinjapan/

email: voicesinjapan@gmail.com

Support the show

22 Feb 2022Japanese Symbolic Animals00:54:57

Ben and Burke discuss a number of symbolic animals in Japanese culture, including butterflies ("cho-cho"), frogs ("kaeru"), cranes ("tsuru"), turtles ("kame"), cats ("neko"), and many others! To their surprise, only a portion of the symbolism was known by the Japanese people they checked with. Listen now to find out more about which animals symbolize luck, longevity, wisdom, fortune, peace, a safe return, womanhood, joy and more!

Sponsors:

Bearfoot Bar

Located in downtown Sapporo, walking distance from the subway station. There are  variety of Japanese made craft bottled beers. A range of whiskeys and basic cocktails also available. Burgers and pub style snacks. Friendly English and Japanese speaking staff.  https://www.facebook.com/bearfootbar

The Red House

Located in the heart of Rusutsu Ski Resort, just cross the main road and it’s behind the Seicomart Convenience store. The restaurant features a mix of Japanese, Asian fusion, and western Style dishes, including shabu-shabu with wagyu beef and Hokkaido wagyu beef steak. Open winter and summer, 12-3pm for lunch, 5-9pm for dinner, with prices ranging from under Yen 1000 to about Yen 5000. https://theredhouse.jp/

Rusutsu Lodges

Open all year round. Located 5 minutes walk to the main Rusutsu Ski Resort Gondola. There are Japanese, Western, and apartment style rooms with breakfast packages available. There’s a Japanese sento (public bath), two convenience stores less than a minute walk, ski room and tune up tables, plenty of free parking space, and summer BBQ packages available. Check out the website for more information and availability. http://rusutsulodges.com

Hokkaido Guide

Established over 10 years ago, written by locals for locals and international tourists. The guide contains information on all types of businesses and locations around Hokkaido. There's information regarding all things Hokkaido such as sightseeing, nightlife, events, services, food and restaurants, entertainment, outdoor activities, and more. Currently offered in English and Thai, advertising space available. Check out website for everything you need to know about this beautiful prefecture. https://hokkaidoguide.com

Use our Buzzsprout affiliate link to start your podcast today!

Website:
https://www.voicesinjapan.com/
Follow us and check out our other content:
https://twitter.com/voicesinjapan
https://www.facebook.com/voicesinjapan/
https://www.instagram.com/voicesinjapan/

Get in touch:
voicesinjapan@gmail.com

Support the show

01 Mar 20225 Things you don't know about Japan00:58:09

There are many things that are well-known about Japan. For example, trains are the most punctual in the world, the country has one of the highest proportions of elderly people, Japanese people are interested in your blood type, just to name a few. However, there are some things that many people are not aware about. We discuss some of these which include the number of islands in Japan, dancing laws, adult diaper sales, and much much more. Enjoy the show!

Previous episodes mentioned:
Zoos, Aquariums and Pet Life in Japan

Sponsors:

Bearfoot Bar

Located in downtown Sapporo, walking distance from the subway station. There are  variety of Japanese made craft bottled beers. A range of whiskeys and basic cocktails also available. Burgers and pub style snacks. Friendly English and Japanese speaking staff.  https://www.facebook.com/bearfootbar
 

The Red House 

Located in the heart of Rusutsu Ski Resort, just cross the main road and it’s behind the Seicomart Convenience store. The restaurant features a mix of Japanese, Asian fusion, and western Style dishes, including shabu-shabu with wagyu beef and Hokkaido wagyu beef steak. Open winter and summer, 12-3pm for lunch, 5-9pm for dinner, with prices ranging from under Yen 1000 to about Yen 5000. https://theredhouse.jp/


 Rusutsu Lodges

Open all year round. Located 5 minutes walk to the main Rusutsu Ski Resort Gondola. There are Japanese, Western, and apartment style rooms with breakfast packages available. There’s a Japanese sento (public bath), two convenience stores less than a minute walk, ski room and tune up tables, plenty of free parking space, and summer BBQ packages available. Check out the website for more information and availability. http://rusutsulodges.com


 Hokkaido Guide

Established over 10 years ago, written by locals for locals and international tourists. The guide contains information on all types of businesses and locations around Hokkaido. There's information regarding all things Hokkaido such as sightseeing, nightlife, events, services, food and restaurants, entertainment, outdoor activities, and more. Currently offered in English and Thai, advertising space available. Check out website for everything you need to know about this beautiful prefecture. https://hokkaidoguide.com


Use our Buzzsprout affiliate link to start your podcast today!
 
Website:

https://www.voicesinjapan.com/
Follow us and check out our other content:

https://twitter.com/voicesinjapan

https://www.facebook.com/voicesinjapan/

https://www.instagram.com/voicesinjapan/

Get in touch: 

voicesinjapan@gmail.com

Support the show

02 Apr 2019Japanese Men's Makeup and Grooming00:36:17

In uber fashion-conscious Japan, the styles of men and women continue to converge. Did you know that even men are wearing makeup and spending their yen on skincare products? What is driving these trends, and have our podcasters tested their masculinity by taking part? 

Conversation points:

·      Getting your forehead shaved at the hair salon or barbers.

·      Men trimming their eyebrows.

·      Men using skin creams, lotions, and moisture masks.

·      Burke wearing makeup on his wedding day.

·      What types of men do Japanese women find attractive?

·      The beautiful men in the entertainment and J-pop industry.

·      Why are the most popular J-pop groups so bad?

·      Men using women style handbags.

·      J-pop artist Gakt and how his androgynous style has influenced Japanese society.

·      The podcasters share their personal experiences with using skin lotions.

·      Subway operators suing their bosses for being penalized at work for having facial hair.

·      The rules of facial hair in the Japanese work environment and how the podcasters have been affected by them.

 

The world is constantly changing at a rapid pace that things such as men’s makeup are becoming more common place. Is it a good thing? For the younger generation, trimming your eyebrows and using skin products and lotions to improve your appearance can only be a positive. But, can it go too far? Are men losing their masculinity by using women’s handbags? There may come a day when both sexes look and dress completely the same, and who’s to say that it’s a bad thing. In any case, androgynous Japan is leading the way in the ever-evolving fashion world.

Follow Us:

https://twitter.com/voicesinjapan

https://www.facebook.com/voicesinjapan/

https://www.instagram.com/voicesinjapan/

Get in Touch: voicesinjapan@gmail.com

Support the show

16 Mar 2022False Truths About Japan00:59:58

On this episode, Ben and Burke take a look at things people thought were true about Japan and then found out weren't. Japan Today recently asked this as a question on their Facebook page, and people expressed surprise at things related to technology, food quality, treatment of foreigners and each other, and much more!

Sponsors:

Bearfoot Bar

Located in downtown Sapporo, walking distance from the subway station. There are  variety of Japanese made craft bottled beers. A range of whiskeys and basic cocktails also available. Burgers and pub style snacks. Friendly English and Japanese speaking staff.  https://www.facebook.com/bearfootbar

The Red House

Located in the heart of Rusutsu Ski Resort, just cross the main road and it’s behind the Seicomart Convenience store. The restaurant features a mix of Japanese, Asian fusion, and western Style dishes, including shabu-shabu with wagyu beef and Hokkaido wagyu beef steak. Open winter and summer, 12-3pm for lunch, 5-9pm for dinner, with prices ranging from under Yen 1000 to about Yen 5000. https://theredhouse.jp/

Rusutsu Lodges

Open all year round. Located 5 minutes walk to the main Rusutsu Ski Resort Gondola. There are Japanese, Western, and apartment style rooms with breakfast packages available. There’s a Japanese sento (public bath), two convenience stores less than a minute walk, ski room and tune up tables, plenty of free parking space, and summer BBQ packages available. Check out the website for more information and availability. http://rusutsulodges.com

Hokkaido Guide

Established over 10 years ago, written by locals for locals and international tourists. The guide contains information on all types of businesses and locations around Hokkaido. There's information regarding all things Hokkaido such as sightseeing, nightlife, events, services, food and restaurants, entertainment, outdoor activities, and more. Currently offered in English and Thai, advertising space available. Check out website for everything you need to know about this beautiful prefecture. https://hokkaidoguide.com

Use our Buzzsprout affiliate link to start your podcast today!

Website:
https://www.voicesinjapan.com/
Follow us and check out our other content:
https://twitter.com/voicesinjapan
https://www.facebook.com/voicesinjapan/
https://www.instagram.com/voicesinjapan/

Get in touch:
voicesinjapan@gmail.com



Support the show

22 Mar 2022How to Prepare for an Earthquake in Japan00:58:33

There was a powerful 7.4 magnitude earthquake, on March 16, that hit the same area as the 2011 Fukushima nuclear disaster. Therefore, we thought it would be a good time to talk about preparing for the next earthquake in Japan. Ben and Burke share some useful resources and phone numbers, what items to stockpile at home, how to secure your furniture, and much much more. Enjoy the show!

Sponsors:

Bearfoot Bar

Located in downtown Sapporo, walking distance from the subway station. There are  variety of Japanese made craft bottled beers. A range of whiskeys and basic cocktails also available. Burgers and pub style snacks. Friendly English and Japanese speaking staff.  https://www.facebook.com/bearfootbar
 

The Red House 

Located in the heart of Rusutsu Ski Resort, just cross the main road and it’s behind the Seicomart Convenience store. The restaurant features a mix of Japanese, Asian fusion, and western Style dishes, including shabu-shabu with wagyu beef and Hokkaido wagyu beef steak. Open winter and summer, 12-3pm for lunch, 5-9pm for dinner, with prices ranging from under Yen 1000 to about Yen 5000. https://theredhouse.jp/


 Rusutsu Lodges

Open all year round. Located 5 minutes walk to the main Rusutsu Ski Resort Gondola. There are Japanese, Western, and apartment style rooms with breakfast packages available. There’s a Japanese sento (public bath), two convenience stores less than a minute walk, ski room and tune up tables, plenty of free parking space, and summer BBQ packages available. Check out the website for more information and availability. http://rusutsulodges.com


 Hokkaido Guide

Established over 10 years ago, written by locals for locals and international tourists. The guide contains information on all types of businesses and locations around Hokkaido. There's information regarding all things Hokkaido such as sightseeing, nightlife, events, services, food and restaurants, entertainment, outdoor activities, and more. Currently offered in English and Thai, advertising space available. Check out website for everything you need to know about this beautiful prefecture. https://hokkaidoguide.com


Use our Buzzsprout affiliate link to start your podcast today!
 
Website:

https://www.voicesinjapan.com/
Follow us and check out our other content:

https://twitter.com/voicesinjapan

https://www.facebook.com/voicesinjapan/

https://www.instagram.com/voicesinjapan/

Get in touch: 

voicesinjapan@gmail.com

Support the show

10 Apr 2019Slave to the Salaryman Life!00:46:32

Looking for a career in Japan?  Get ready for the crazy welcome parties, off the cuff greetings and farewell speeches, morning stretches, meetings on top of meetings, and the possibility of literally working to death, aka karoshi! Can the government policies being introduced actually reform the challenges affecting Japan's labor force? Find out how our podcasters have been navigating their way over the years and surviving the notorious Japanese working culture!

Support the show

29 Mar 2022What do Japanese People Think of Japanese Stereotypes?00:50:40

Ben's friend Miyoko joins the podcast to have a look at some stereotypes about Japanese people that many Japanese hate! Are all Japanese people polite? Are Japanese women subservient and docile? Do all Japanese students study hard? And are Japanese people hiding their true feelings? Listen to the opinions of Ben, Burke, and Miyoko on these topics and much more!

Sponsors:

Bearfoot Bar

Located in downtown Sapporo, walking distance from the subway station. There are  variety of Japanese made craft bottled beers. A range of whiskeys and basic cocktails also available. Burgers and pub style snacks. Friendly English and Japanese speaking staff.  https://www.facebook.com/bearfootbar

The Red House

Located in the heart of Rusutsu Ski Resort, just cross the main road and it’s behind the Seicomart Convenience store. The restaurant features a mix of Japanese, Asian fusion, and western Style dishes, including shabu-shabu with wagyu beef and Hokkaido wagyu beef steak. Open winter and summer, 12-3pm for lunch, 5-9pm for dinner, with prices ranging from under Yen 1000 to about Yen 5000. https://theredhouse.jp/

Rusutsu Lodges

Open all year round. Located 5 minutes walk to the main Rusutsu Ski Resort Gondola. There are Japanese, Western, and apartment style rooms with breakfast packages available. There’s a Japanese sento (public bath), two convenience stores less than a minute walk, ski room and tune up tables, plenty of free parking space, and summer BBQ packages available. Check out the website for more information and availability. http://rusutsulodges.com

Hokkaido Guide

Established over 10 years ago, written by locals for locals and international tourists. The guide contains information on all types of businesses and locations around Hokkaido. There's information regarding all things Hokkaido such as sightseeing, nightlife, events, services, food and restaurants, entertainment, outdoor activities, and more. Currently offered in English and Thai, advertising space available. Check out website for everything you need to know about this beautiful prefecture. https://hokkaidoguide.com

Use our Buzzsprout affiliate link to start your podcast today!

Website:
https://www.voicesinjapan.com/
Follow us and check out our other content:
https://twitter.com/voicesinjapan
https://www.facebook.com/voicesinjapan/
https://www.instagram.com/voicesinjapan/

Get in touch:
voicesinjapan@gmail.com

Support the show

12 Apr 2022Season Finale00:58:48

Matt joins Ben and Burke for the season finale. He shares his horrid experience of being injured on a ski slope. The guys also discuss some recent news topics which include foreign residents being stopped by the police, the Fuji Rock festival returning after a 2 year lay off, and much more.

We thank everyone so much for listening to us, whether you have been following the podcast since the beginning or you have just discovered it. We will be back soon, with some changes and a bit of a re-vamp, so stay tuned!

Sponsors:

Bearfoot Bar

Located in downtown Sapporo, walking distance from the subway station. There are  variety of Japanese made craft bottled beers. A range of whiskeys and basic cocktails also available. Burgers and pub style snacks. Friendly English and Japanese speaking staff.  https://www.facebook.com/bearfootbar
 

The Red House 

Located in the heart of Rusutsu Ski Resort, just cross the main road and it’s behind the Seicomart Convenience store. The restaurant features a mix of Japanese, Asian fusion, and western Style dishes, including shabu-shabu with wagyu beef and Hokkaido wagyu beef steak. Open winter and summer, 12-3pm for lunch, 5-9pm for dinner, with prices ranging from under Yen 1000 to about Yen 5000. https://theredhouse.jp/


 Rusutsu Lodges

Open all year round. Located 5 minutes walk to the main Rusutsu Ski Resort Gondola. There are Japanese, Western, and apartment style rooms with breakfast packages available. There’s a Japanese sento (public bath), two convenience stores less than a minute walk, ski room and tune up tables, plenty of free parking space, and summer BBQ packages available. Check out the website for more information and availability. http://rusutsulodges.com


 Hokkaido Guide

Established over 10 years ago, written by locals for locals and international tourists. The guide contains information on all types of businesses and locations around Hokkaido. There's information regarding all things Hokkaido such as sightseeing, nightlife, events, services, food and restaurants, entertainment, outdoor activities, and more. Currently offered in English and Thai, advertising space available. Check out website for everything you need to know about this beautiful prefecture. https://hokkaidoguide.com


Use our Buzzsprout affiliate link to start your podcast today!
 
Website:

https://www.voicesinjapan.com/
Follow us and check out our other content:

https://twitter.com/voicesinjapan

https://www.facebook.com/voicesinjapan/

https://www.instagram.com/voicesinjapan/

Get in touch: 

voicesinjapan@gmail.com

Support the show

17 Apr 2019Beer, Sake, Shochu, Sleep......Repeat!00:45:06

Drinking is such a big part of Japanese life. People drink to build relationships with colleagues and business clients, and of course to relieve stress or relax. Many people, especially businessmen, take full advantage of these drinking opportunities often ending the evening with a pavement pizza, and passing out on the streets. We see it all the time!

Conversation highlights:

  • What our podcasters like to drink during a night out on the town.
  • the growing popularity of craft beer in Japan.
  • Do people drink Sake/nihonshuu at the beginning of a night out?
  • Work parties in Japan being a big part of business culture. “nomunication” - drink and communicate.
  • What are some unique customs when drinking with colleagues and friends?
  • Why drinking with co-workers and clients is important in Japan.
  • The infamous Nomihodai (All-you-can-drink) plans and why they work in Japan.
  • Are Japanese people strong drinkers?
  • Drunken businessmen getting wasted and passing out on the streets and subways.
  • Comparing alcohol related violences between Japan, the US and the UK. 
  • Alcohol making Japanese people more friendly and open.
  • The best time of the year for our podcasters - The Sapporo Beer Garden in the summer.
  • Jingiskan - A very popular dish of barbecued lamb originating from Hokkaido.
  • Types of Shochu, which is a strong potato based spirit.
  • Cocktails unique to Japan and the growing popularity of Highballs.
  • Japan is so safe that businessmen feel comfortable passing out in the streets, and women walk alone through parks.

The most unique drinking custom is the Nomihodai (all-you-can-drink plan), which sounds pretty crazy and would never work in countries such as the UK and the US, but the Japanese don’t take advantage of this. When our podcasters first arrived in Japan, hearing about this drinking plan brought shock and excitement, resulting in many an early night of debauchery and blackouts. 

Throughout the years, the Nomihodai is still a firm favourite on nights out, but the drink-as-much-as-you-can mentality has slowly worn off. Nowadays, as the guys have aged, so have their drinking habits, having a preference for sipping good quality Sake or a couple of glasses of tasty craft beer over dribbling into empty shot glasses in the dingy nightclubs of Sapporo at 4am. Getting old and boring is real!


Follow us and check out our other content:

https://twitter.com/voicesinjapan

https://www.facebook.com/voicesinjapan/

https://www.instagram.com/voicesinjapan/

Get in touch: 

voicesinjapan@gmail.com

Support the show

24 Apr 2019Interview: Yumi shares the truth about fitness and the mindset of Japanese women!00:40:31

Special guest Yumi joins the podcast to give the guys a new perspective on life in Japan.  In this episode full of laughs, our podcasters learn about the growing exercise trends taking over the land of the rising sun, and also discover the great lengths to which Japanese women will go to avoid the wrath of their mothers-in-law, and even other women, as they struggle to maintain the image of being the perfect mother and wife. Also, why do Japanese girls and women find it easier to express their true feelings with foreign guys? Listen to the episode to find out now!

Conversation highlights:

•  Is exercising at a sports gym popular in Japan like it is in western countries?

•  What are the benefits of yoga versus the benefits of CrossFit?

•  Why did Yumi decide that she wanted to join CrossFit?

•  How are the bodies and mindset of the people in the gym different in Japan?

•  Why are many Japanese guys intimidated by girls with athletic bodies?

•  Why are the podcasters infatuated with the Japanese female body?

•  Why do Japanese women feel so much pressure to be a perfect mother and perfect wife

•  Why do wives in Japan feel like they need to ask for permission from their husbands just to go out with their girlfriends, or even hang out at a friend's house!?

•  Why don't Japanese married couples share the responsibilities around the house?

•  Why can Japanese women express themselves better with foreign guys?

•  What is the best way to flirt with a Japanese girl at the bar? Is there a perfect pick-up line?

Believe it or not, even though many Japanese people appear to be much thinner than their western counterparts, working out in the gym has only recently started to grow in popularity. But are most Japanese people that you see walking down the street actually fit and in shape?

Also, shouldn’t Japanese women be happy that they can stay home with the kids and not work, and is there any real pressure that comes with being a housewife? Can Yumi keep her cool as she patiently tries to educate the guys on the difficulties of being a Japanese woman? Fortunately, the conversation remains very light-hearted while touching upon some fairly sensitive topics. Listen now to compare your own thoughts on what should be considered acceptable in this conservative yet evolving culture.  

Follow us and check out our other content:

https://twitter.com/voicesinjapan

https://www.facebook.com/voicesinjapan/

https://www.instagram.com/voicesinjapan/

Get in touch: 

voicesinjapan@gmail.com

Support the show

25 May 2022Haunted Schools, Centenarians, and NHK's New Tricks00:45:47

Boom! The podcast is back for its second season, with a little surprise! The boys start off by catching up on what they've been up to, including a Friday the 13th visit to a haunted school in Bibai, Hokkaido - ranked as one of Japan's Top 10 haunted locations. They pay respect to Kane Tanaka who, until her passing last month, was the oldest living person in the world. And then a little controversy is brought to light about who actually holds the world record for being the oldest person ever.  Finally, it seems nobody will safe from the NHK subscription money collectors thanks to a new law taking effect next month! Listen now to find out all the details about these topics and more from the land of the rising sun!

Sponsors:

Bearfoot Bar

Located in downtown Sapporo, walking distance from the subway station. There are  variety of Japanese made craft bottled beers. A range of whiskeys and basic cocktails also available. Burgers and pub style snacks. Friendly English and Japanese speaking staff.  https://www.facebook.com/bearfootbar

The Red House

Located in the heart of Rusutsu Ski Resort, just cross the main road and it’s behind the Seicomart Convenience store. The restaurant features a mix of Japanese, Asian fusion, and western Style dishes, including shabu-shabu with wagyu beef and Hokkaido wagyu beef steak. Open winter and summer, 12-3pm for lunch, 5-9pm for dinner, with prices ranging from under Yen 1000 to about Yen 5000. https://theredhouse.jp/

Rusutsu Lodges

Open all year round. Located 5 minutes walk to the main Rusutsu Ski Resort Gondola. There are Japanese, Western, and apartment style rooms with breakfast packages available. There’s a Japanese sento (public bath), two convenience stores less than a minute walk, ski room and tune up tables, plenty of free parking space, and summer BBQ packages available. Check out the website for more information and availability. http://rusutsulodges.com

Hokkaido Guide

Established over 10 years ago, written by locals for locals and international tourists. The guide contains information on all types of businesses and locations around Hokkaido. There's information regarding all things Hokkaido such as sightseeing, nightlife, events, services, food and restaurants, entertainment, outdoor activities, and more. Currently offered in English and Thai, advertising space available. Check out website for everything you need to know about this beautiful prefecture. https://hokkaidoguide.com

Use our Buzzsprout affiliate link to start your podcast today!

Website:
https://www.voicesinjapan.com/
Follow us and check out our other content:
https://twitter.com/voicesinjapan
https://www.facebook.com/voicesinjapan/
https://www.instagram.com/voicesinjapan/

Get in touch:
voicesinjapan@gmail.com

Support the show

01 May 2019Hokkaido Life: Ending the Heisei Era with a 10 day Golden Week Holiday00:42:52

Special guest Yumi joins the guys again to talk about the special 10 day Golden Week holiday. Does she like Golden Week? The Heisei era ends on May 1st and a new emperor will be crowned, beginning the new Reiwa era. Listen to some interesting Golden Week stories in Hokkaido and opinions about the long holiday.

Conversation Highlights:

  • Why is Golden Week a 10 day holiday this year?
  • What do Japanese people think of the Emperor?
  • Japanese people stressing out about the long holiday
  • Ben shares his most memorable Golden Week holiday
  • The new Reiwa era and what the name means
  • People getting confused with the Japanese eras and calendar
  • The most popular cherry blossom viewing spots in Hokkaido
  • Barbecuing during Golden Week
  • Barbecuing on the beach during the summer time is a Hokkaido “thing”
  • Making the most out of sunny days.
  • Japanese words that became popular during the Heisei era
  • Golden week plans
  • Ben shares a memorable Golden week story about Burke
  • Yumi shares her worst Golden week holiday
  • The negatives of Golden Week
  • Yumi’s ideal Golden week would be to go to Okinawa

In Hokkaido, Golden Week is a bit different than the rest of Japan because the winter has just ended, meaning that it’s still a bit cold. However, this does not stop the locals from barbecuing down by the river and in the most popular spot, Maruyama Park. In fact, the purported reason for barbecuing in Maruyama park is for cherry blossom viewing, but because of the cold weather the cherry blossoms are not in full bloom, usually there are only a few trees with some level of bloomage. But Hokkaido people love to barbecue and come rain or shine, during Golden Week, it is guaranteed to be a party atmosphere in Maruyama Park. And to be honest, they don’t really care about the cherry blossoms! If you have a chance to visit Hokkaido during Golden Week, going to this park is a must!

It is the first time for the Golden Week holiday to be 10 days long. And, many people are actually complaining that the holiday is too long. Especially, families with young children become stressed and “over-worked” entertaining their kids for 10 days. Some people would actually rather go to work because they can at least relax for a few hours a day! Furthermore, Golden Week is a time when everyone in Japan is on holiday, therefore there are so many people traveling in, out, and around Japan and the prices for travel and accommodation double and sometimes triple! So, it can be a bit of a nightmare travelling during this time, with many many people, including Yumi and the Voices in Japan Podcast hosts preferring to stay home to avoid the crowds during this hectic time.

Website:

http://podcast.voicesinjapan.com

Follow us and check out our other content:

https://twitter.com/voicesinjapan

https://www.facebook.com/voicesinjapan/

https://www.instagram.com/voicesinjapan/

Get in touch: 

voicesinjapan@gmail.com

Support the show

01 Jun 2022Is Japan Ready for Overseas Tourists??00:50:09

Starting from June 10th, overseas tourists will be allowed back into Japan!!! Well ... kind of. A very limited number of groups chaperoned under very specific schedules will be able to enjoy tightly controlled tour packages. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, Japan was throwing all its weight into reaching a lofty goal of having 60 million overseas tourists yearly - close to double the 31 million visitors it let in during pre-pandemic 2019. But with the current uncertainty surrounding where the pandemic might be heading next, it seems more than half of the Japanese population remains opposed to opening the borders to tourists. How are the tours supposed to work, and who can actually enter the country, and what do the guys think about it all? Listen now to find out!

Sponsors:

Bearfoot Bar

Located in downtown Sapporo, walking distance from the subway station. There are  variety of Japanese made craft bottled beers. A range of whiskeys and basic cocktails also available. Burgers and pub style snacks. Friendly English and Japanese speaking staff.  https://www.facebook.com/bearfootbar

The Red House

Located in the heart of Rusutsu Ski Resort, just cross the main road and it’s behind the Seicomart Convenience store. The restaurant features a mix of Japanese, Asian fusion, and western Style dishes, including shabu-shabu with wagyu beef and Hokkaido wagyu beef steak. Open winter and summer, 12-3pm for lunch, 5-9pm for dinner, with prices ranging from under Yen 1000 to about Yen 5000. https://theredhouse.jp/

Rusutsu Lodges

Open all year round. Located 5 minutes walk to the main Rusutsu Ski Resort Gondola. There are Japanese, Western, and apartment style rooms with breakfast packages available. There’s a Japanese sento (public bath), two convenience stores less than a minute walk, ski room and tune up tables, plenty of free parking space, and summer BBQ packages available. Check out the website for more information and availability. http://rusutsulodges.com

Hokkaido Guide

Established over 10 years ago, written by locals for locals and international tourists. The guide contains information on all types of businesses and locations around Hokkaido. There's information regarding all things Hokkaido such as sightseeing, nightlife, events, services, food and restaurants, entertainment, outdoor activities, and more. Currently offered in English and Thai, advertising space available. Check out website for everything you need to know about this beautiful prefecture. https://hokkaidoguide.com

Use our Buzzsprout affiliate link to start your podcast today!

Website:
https://www.voicesinjapan.com/
Follow us and check out our other content:
https://twitter.com/voicesinjapan
https://www.facebook.com/voicesinjapan/
https://www.instagram.com/voicesinjapan/

Get in touch:
voicesinjapan@gmail.com

Support the show

08 Jun 2022Is Life in Japan Getting More Expensive?00:41:55

Prices for as many as 10,000 food items in Japan will be going up an average of 13% this year! Matt, Ben, and Burke take a look at the affected items they buy in their daily lives, the "shrinkflation" tricks food establishments are relying on to survive, and the ways their eating and drinking habits might need to adjust in this new reality. But, being in Japan, is the guys' situation really that bad compared to other parts of the world? Listen to find out now!

Sponsors:

Bearfoot Bar

Located in downtown Sapporo, walking distance from the subway station. There are  variety of Japanese made craft bottled beers. A range of whiskeys and basic cocktails also available. Burgers and pub style snacks. Friendly English and Japanese speaking staff.  https://www.facebook.com/bearfootbar

The Red House

Located in the heart of Rusutsu Ski Resort, just cross the main road and it’s behind the Seicomart Convenience store. The restaurant features a mix of Japanese, Asian fusion, and western Style dishes, including shabu-shabu with wagyu beef and Hokkaido wagyu beef steak. Open winter and summer, 12-3pm for lunch, 5-9pm for dinner, with prices ranging from under Yen 1000 to about Yen 5000. https://theredhouse.jp/

Rusutsu Lodges

Open all year round. Located 5 minutes walk to the main Rusutsu Ski Resort Gondola. There are Japanese, Western, and apartment style rooms with breakfast packages available. There’s a Japanese sento (public bath), two convenience stores less than a minute walk, ski room and tune up tables, plenty of free parking space, and summer BBQ packages available. Check out the website for more information and availability. http://rusutsulodges.com

Hokkaido Guide

Established over 10 years ago, written by locals for locals and international tourists. The guide contains information on all types of businesses and locations around Hokkaido. There's information regarding all things Hokkaido such as sightseeing, nightlife, events, services, food and restaurants, entertainment, outdoor activities, and more. Currently offered in English and Thai, advertising space available. Check out website for everything you need to know about this beautiful prefecture. https://hokkaidoguide.com

Use our Buzzsprout affiliate link to start your podcast today!

Website:
https://www.voicesinjapan.com/
Follow us and check out our other content:
https://twitter.com/voicesinjapan
https://www.facebook.com/voicesinjapan/
https://www.instagram.com/voicesinjapan/

Get in touch:
voicesinjapan@gmail.com

Support the show

15 Jun 2022Festivals are Back with a Bang!00:43:28

Summers in Japan equal festival season, and after a 2-year hiatus due to the Covid pandemic, many events have restarted from this year. Matt, Ben, and Burke take a look at some of the popular festivals in Sapporo city that have already taken place or are currently underway, including the Yosakoi Festival, Hokkaido University Festival, and Hokkaido Shrine Festival. They discuss summer wear for festivals, a very unique festival in the popular hot spring town of Noboribetsu, strange festivals across Japan, and also Matt's recent live music gig and the not-so-friendly system that bands must use when they arrange shows at bars and other venues in Japan. Enjoy and please leave us a rating on Apple Podcasts if you have a spare minute!

Sponsors:

Bearfoot Bar

Located in downtown Sapporo, walking distance from the subway station. There are  variety of Japanese made craft bottled beers. A range of whiskeys and basic cocktails also available. Burgers and pub style snacks. Friendly English and Japanese speaking staff.  https://www.facebook.com/bearfootbar

The Red House

Located in the heart of Rusutsu Ski Resort, just cross the main road and it’s behind the Seicomart Convenience store. The restaurant features a mix of Japanese, Asian fusion, and western Style dishes, including shabu-shabu with wagyu beef and Hokkaido wagyu beef steak. Open winter and summer, 12-3pm for lunch, 5-9pm for dinner, with prices ranging from under Yen 1000 to about Yen 5000. https://theredhouse.jp/

Rusutsu Lodges

Open all year round. Located 5 minutes walk to the main Rusutsu Ski Resort Gondola. There are Japanese, Western, and apartment style rooms with breakfast packages available. There’s a Japanese sento (public bath), two convenience stores less than a minute walk, ski room and tune up tables, plenty of free parking space, and summer BBQ packages available. Check out the website for more information and availability. http://rusutsulodges.com

Hokkaido Guide

Established over 10 years ago, written by locals for locals and international tourists. The guide contains information on all types of businesses and locations around Hokkaido. There's information regarding all things Hokkaido such as sightseeing, nightlife, events, services, food and restaurants, entertainment, outdoor activities, and more. Currently offered in English and Thai, advertising space available. Check out website for everything you need to know about this beautiful prefecture. https://hokkaidoguide.com

Use our Buzzsprout affiliate link to start your podcast today!

Website:
https://www.voicesinjapan.com/
Follow us and check out our other content:
https://twitter.com/voicesinjapan
https://www.facebook.com/voicesinjapan/
https://www.instagram.com/voicesinjapan/

Get in touch:
voicesinjapan@gmail.com

Support the show

01 Jul 2022The Excitement of Red Tape in Japan00:54:23

Despite Japan being the best place to live in the world, there are some negatives, and perhaps part of the most infamous of those is all the red tape and cumbersome processes that one is certain to encounter multiple times per year. Matt details the very exciting experience (sarcasm intended) of renewing his drivers license - a process where waiting in line is usually the worst part in most other countries. The guys also look at Matt's renewed modeling career in Japan, someone losing a USB drive with important data on all residents of the city of Amagasaki after a drinking a party, new rules that allow people to smile for drivers license pictures, the reason for official processes in Japan moving at a snail's pace, and much more!

Sponsors:

Bearfoot Bar

Located in downtown Sapporo, walking distance from the subway station. There are  variety of Japanese made craft bottled beers. A range of whiskeys and basic cocktails also available. Burgers and pub style snacks. Friendly English and Japanese speaking staff.  https://www.facebook.com/bearfootbar

The Red House

Located in the heart of Rusutsu Ski Resort, just cross the main road and it’s behind the Seicomart Convenience store. The restaurant features a mix of Japanese, Asian fusion, and western Style dishes, including shabu-shabu with wagyu beef and Hokkaido wagyu beef steak. Open winter and summer, 12-3pm for lunch, 5-9pm for dinner, with prices ranging from under Yen 1000 to about Yen 5000. https://theredhouse.jp/

Rusutsu Lodges

Open all year round. Located 5 minutes walk to the main Rusutsu Ski Resort Gondola. There are Japanese, Western, and apartment style rooms with breakfast packages available. There’s a Japanese sento (public bath), two convenience stores less than a minute walk, ski room and tune up tables, plenty of free parking space, and summer BBQ packages available. Check out the website for more information and availability. http://rusutsulodges.com

Hokkaido Guide

Established over 10 years ago, written by locals for locals and international tourists. The guide contains information on all types of businesses and locations around Hokkaido. There's information regarding all things Hokkaido such as sightseeing, nightlife, events, services, food and restaurants, entertainment, outdoor activities, and more. Currently offered in English and Thai, advertising space available. Check out website for everything you need to know about this beautiful prefecture. https://hokkaidoguide.com

Use our Buzzsprout affiliate link to start your podcast today!

Website:
https://www.voicesinjapan.com/
Follow us and check out our other content:
https://twitter.com/voicesinjapan
https://www.facebook.com/voicesinjapan/
https://www.instagram.com/voicesinjapan/

Get in touch:
voicesinjapan@gmail.com

Support the show

06 Jul 2022The New Modern Japanese Man00:35:55

The effeminate style of young men seen in Japan and other Asian countries these days was not something that Matt, Ben, and Burke would see when they were in their home countries. Since last year, Beijing has started cracking down on effeminate male performers in China's entertainment industry, attributing the rise of "unmanly men" on US influence in Japan. Some say that women gaining more equality after Japan's economic bubble burst in the early 1990's and their placing more value on softer characteristics in men, and also the reinforced image of the soushoku (herbivore) man that started showing up in popular manga and other media around that time furthered the expansion of "androgynous" masculinity. And there was even a third gender known as "wakashu" during the Edo period of Japan that was an in-between position for young men. On this episode, the guys take a look at what masculinity might mean in different cultures and to different people.

Sponsors:

Bearfoot Bar

Located in downtown Sapporo, walking distance from the subway station. There are  variety of Japanese made craft bottled beers. A range of whiskeys and basic cocktails also available. Burgers and pub style snacks. Friendly English and Japanese speaking staff.  https://www.facebook.com/bearfootbar

The Red House

Located in the heart of Rusutsu Ski Resort, just cross the main road and it’s behind the Seicomart Convenience store. The restaurant features a mix of Japanese, Asian fusion, and western Style dishes, including shabu-shabu with wagyu beef and Hokkaido wagyu beef steak. Open winter and summer, 12-3pm for lunch, 5-9pm for dinner, with prices ranging from under Yen 1000 to about Yen 5000. https://theredhouse.jp/

Rusutsu Lodges

Open all year round. Located 5 minutes walk to the main Rusutsu Ski Resort Gondola. There are Japanese, Western, and apartment style rooms with breakfast packages available. There’s a Japanese sento (public bath), two convenience stores less than a minute walk, ski room and tune up tables, plenty of free parking space, and summer BBQ packages available. Check out the website for more information and availability. http://rusutsulodges.com

Hokkaido Guide

Established over 10 years ago, written by locals for locals and international tourists. The guide contains information on all types of businesses and locations around Hokkaido. There's information regarding all things Hokkaido such as sightseeing, nightlife, events, services, food and restaurants, entertainment, outdoor activities, and more. Currently offered in English and Thai, advertising space available. Check out website for everything you need to know about this beautiful prefecture. https://hokkaidoguide.com

Use our Buzzsprout affiliate link to start your podcast today!

Website:
https://www.voicesinjapan.com/
Follow us and check out our other content:
https://twitter.com/voicesinjapan
https://www.facebook.com/voicesinjapan/

Support the show

13 Jul 2022Japan in Shock After Assassination of Shinzo Abe00:44:33

On this episode, we talk about the shocking assassination of Japan's former prime minister, Shinzo Abe, who was arguably still Japan's most powerful political figure. While new details continue to emerge regarding the motive of the man who shot Mr. Abe, Tetsuya Yamagami, we look at the information that was available at the time of our recording, Japan's history of political violence, Mr. Abe's popularity within Japan, the situation with gun ownership in the country, and much more.

Sponsors:

Bearfoot Bar

Located in downtown Sapporo, walking distance from the subway station. There are  variety of Japanese made craft bottled beers. A range of whiskeys and basic cocktails also available. Burgers and pub style snacks. Friendly English and Japanese speaking staff.  https://www.facebook.com/bearfootbar

The Red House

Located in the heart of Rusutsu Ski Resort, just cross the main road and it’s behind the Seicomart Convenience store. The restaurant features a mix of Japanese, Asian fusion, and western Style dishes, including shabu-shabu with wagyu beef and Hokkaido wagyu beef steak. Open winter and summer, 12-3pm for lunch, 5-9pm for dinner, with prices ranging from under Yen 1000 to about Yen 5000. https://theredhouse.jp/

Rusutsu Lodges

Open all year round. Located 5 minutes walk to the main Rusutsu Ski Resort Gondola. There are Japanese, Western, and apartment style rooms with breakfast packages available. There’s a Japanese sento (public bath), two convenience stores less than a minute walk, ski room and tune up tables, plenty of free parking space, and summer BBQ packages available. Check out the website for more information and availability. http://rusutsulodges.com

Hokkaido Guide

Established over 10 years ago, written by locals for locals and international tourists. The guide contains information on all types of businesses and locations around Hokkaido. There's information regarding all things Hokkaido such as sightseeing, nightlife, events, services, food and restaurants, entertainment, outdoor activities, and more. Currently offered in English and Thai, advertising space available. Check out website for everything you need to know about this beautiful prefecture. https://hokkaidoguide.com

Use our Buzzsprout affiliate link to start your podcast today!

Website:
https://www.voicesinjapan.com/
Follow us and check out our other content:
https://twitter.com/voicesinjapan
https://www.facebook.com/voicesinjapan/
https://www

Support the show

07 May 2019Do I or Don’t I get married in Japan?00:36:45

Are there wedding bells in your future? Marriage is one of life’s most important decisions. While Japanese people celebrate the big day with their own unique traditions, some wedding ceremonies and receptions blend in a few fashionable aspects from western custom. Listen to find out how the bride and groom in Japan survive the grueling process that leads up to their finally becoming newlyweds!

Conversation highlights:

·       What are the popular venues for weddings in Japan?

·       What types of weddings have our podcasters had the opportunity to attend?

·       What very important role did Ben play in Burke meeting his wife?

·       What options drive up the cost of a wedding in Japan?

·       Do Japanese people prefer traditional Japanese-style weddings or western weddings?

·       Why does the planning process take so long?

·       Why do people enjoy checking out possible locations for a wedding?

·       What makes the Japanese wedding such a large production?

·       In western cultures, guests give gifts to the newlywed couple, but in Japan, how do the guests contribute to the wedding?

·       Why does the actual wedding day last from very early in the morning until well past midnight?

·       What is so strange about the priest or minister at Japanese weddings?

·       Why are the priests under so much pressure?

·       Do couples really need to get married these days? Are there any real benefits?

·       Should Ben get married?

·       What reasons can drive foreigners to want to marry Japanese nationals?

·       How can getting married completely change a person’s mentality in life.

Deciding whether or not to get married is tricky and difficult regardless of the culture, and being in Japan brings a whole new set of factors to consider.  To begin with, Japanese weddings are a huge production that, as with most events in Japan, require a seemingly endless amount of planning.  The end result is a beautiful, well-coordinated event for the guests to enjoy. If you ever have the chance to attend a wedding in Japan, or even just witness a wedding that might be taking place when you visit a Japanese Shinto shrine, it is a captivating event that should not be missed!  Listen now to find out why!

Website:

http://podcast.voicesinjapan.com

Follow us and check out our other content:

https://twitter.com/voicesinjapan

https://www.facebook.com/voicesinjapan/

https://www.instagram.com/voicesinjapan/

Get in touch: 

voicesinjapan@gmail.com

Support the show

27 Jul 2022The Best Programs for Teaching English in Japan00:52:43

This is the first episode we'll be releasing in a series about teaching English in Japan - a very popular subject! In this episode, we give an overview of the different English teaching jobs that are available (JET Program, eikaiwa, private ALT companies, university teaching, etc.), the most popular and recommended teaching organizations and companies, ways to come over to Japan through teaching English, transitioning to a teaching job from a tourist visa, and much much more!

A few clarifications and corrections on information in the episode:

- The duration for a tourist visa in Japan is 90 days
- The US offers working holiday visas but unfortunately not for Japan
- The UK does offer working holiday visas for Japan
- The current name of the government scholarship mentioned is Monbukagakusho

Sponsors:

Bearfoot Bar

Located in downtown Sapporo, walking distance from the subway station. There are  variety of Japanese made craft bottled beers. A range of whiskeys and basic cocktails also available. Burgers and pub style snacks. Friendly English and Japanese speaking staff.  https://www.facebook.com/bearfootbar

The Red House

Located in the heart of Rusutsu Ski Resort, just cross the main road and it’s behind the Seicomart Convenience store. The restaurant features a mix of Japanese, Asian fusion, and western Style dishes, including shabu-shabu with wagyu beef and Hokkaido wagyu beef steak. Open winter and summer, 12-3pm for lunch, 5-9pm for dinner, with prices ranging from under Yen 1000 to about Yen 5000. https://theredhouse.jp/

Rusutsu Lodges

Open all year round. Located 5 minutes walk to the main Rusutsu Ski Resort Gondola. There are Japanese, Western, and apartment style rooms with breakfast packages available. There’s a Japanese sento (public bath), two convenience stores less than a minute walk, ski room and tune up tables, plenty of free parking space, and summer BBQ packages available. Check out the website for more information and availability. http://rusutsulodges.com

Hokkaido Guide

Established over 10 years ago, written by locals for locals and international tourists. The guide contains information on all types of businesses and locations around Hokkaido. There's information regarding all things Hokkaido such as sightseeing, nightlife, events, services, food and restaurants, entertainment, outdoor activities, and more. Currently offered in English and Thai, advertising space available. Check out website for everything you need to know about this beautiful prefecture. https://hokkaidoguide.com

Use our Buzzsprout affiliate link to start your podcast today!

Website:
https://www.voicesinjapan.com/
Follow us and check out our other content:
https://twitter.com/voicesinjapan
https://www.facebook.com/voicesinjapan/
https://www

Support the show

02 Aug 20225 Trends You Might See When Visiting Japan in 202200:51:10

Ben and Burke (Matt is away somewhere searching for truffles) talk about some trends that visitors may notice when coming to Japan in 2022. These include men's short pants (or trousers), oatmeal, canned sweets, truffle flavoured everything, and more.

Sponsors:

Bearfoot Bar

Located in downtown Sapporo, walking distance from the subway station. There are  variety of Japanese made craft bottled beers. A wide range of regular and unique spirits and basic cocktails also available. Burgers and pub style snacks. With friendly English and Japanese speaking staff.  https://www.facebook.com/bearfootbar
 

The Red House 

Located in the heart of Rusutsu Ski Resort, just cross the main road and it’s behind the Seicomart Convenience store. The restaurant features a mix of Japanese, Asian fusion, and western Style dishes, including shabu-shabu with wagyu beef and Hokkaido wagyu beef steak. Open winter and summer, 12-3pm for lunch, 5-9pm for dinner, with prices ranging from under Yen 1000 to about Yen 5000. https://theredhouse.jp/


 Rusutsu Lodges

Open all year round. Located 5 minutes walk to the main Rusutsu Ski Resort Gondola. There are Japanese, Western, and apartment style rooms with breakfast packages available. There’s a Japanese sento (public bath), two convenience stores less than a minute walk, ski room and tune up tables, plenty of free parking space, and summer BBQ packages available. Check out the website for more information and availability. http://rusutsulodges.com


 Hokkaido Guide

Established over 10 years ago, written by locals for locals and international tourists. The guide contains information on all types of businesses and locations around Hokkaido. There's information regarding all things Hokkaido such as sightseeing, nightlife, events, services, food and restaurants, entertainment, outdoor activities, and more. Currently offered in English and Thai, advertising space available. Check out website for everything you need to know about this beautiful prefecture. https://hokkaidoguide.com


Use our Buzzsprout affiliate link to start your podcast today!
 
Website:

https://www.voicesinjapan.com/
Follow us and check out our other content:

https://twitter.com/voicesinjapan

https://www.facebook.com/voicesinjapan/

https://www.instagram.com/voicesinjapan/

Get in touch: 

voicesinjapan@gmail.com

Support the show

10 Aug 2022The Pros and Cons of Working at an Eikaiwa00:42:01

On today’s episode Ben, Burke and Matt discuss the good and bad points about working at an Eikaiwa (English conversation school) in Japan.

Sponsors:

Bearfoot Bar

Located in downtown Sapporo, walking distance from the subway station. There are  variety of Japanese made craft bottled beers. A wide range of regular and unique spirits and basic cocktails also available. Burgers and pub style snacks. With friendly English and Japanese speaking staff.  https://www.facebook.com/bearfootbar
 

The Red House 

Located in the heart of Rusutsu Ski Resort, just cross the main road and it’s behind the Seicomart Convenience store. The restaurant features a mix of Japanese, Asian fusion, and western Style dishes, including shabu-shabu with wagyu beef and Hokkaido wagyu beef steak. Open winter and summer, 12-3pm for lunch, 5-9pm for dinner, with prices ranging from under Yen 1000 to about Yen 5000. https://theredhouse.jp/


 Rusutsu Lodges

Open all year round. Located 5 minutes walk to the main Rusutsu Ski Resort Gondola. There are Japanese, Western, and apartment style rooms with breakfast packages available. There’s a Japanese sento (public bath), two convenience stores less than a minute walk, ski room and tune up tables, plenty of free parking space, and summer BBQ packages available. Check out the website for more information and availability. http://rusutsulodges.com


 Hokkaido Guide

Established over 10 years ago, written by locals for locals and international tourists. The guide contains information on all types of businesses and locations around Hokkaido. There's information regarding all things Hokkaido such as sightseeing, nightlife, events, services, food and restaurants, entertainment, outdoor activities, and more. Currently offered in English and Thai, advertising space available. Check out website for everything you need to know about this beautiful prefecture. https://hokkaidoguide.com


Use our Buzzsprout affiliate link to start your podcast today!
 
Website:

https://www.voicesinjapan.com/
Follow us and check out our other content:

https://twitter.com/voicesinjapan

https://www.facebook.com/voicesinjapan/

https://www.instagram.com/voicesinjapan/

Get in touch: 

voicesinjapan@gmail.com

Support the show

26 Aug 2022The Return of Ancestral Spirits... and Glamping!00:44:21

On this episode, Ben and Matt discuss the annual Obon event. The visitation of spirits coming home. What do people typically do during this time?  And why do people avoid the ocean during Obon? They also discuss the good times and bad times of the increasing popularity of glamping! Plus the government trying to get young people to start drinking alcohol and much more! 

Sponsors:

Bearfoot Bar

Located in downtown Sapporo, walking distance from the subway station. There are  variety of Japanese made craft bottled beers. A wide range of regular and unique spirits and basic cocktails also available. Burgers and pub style snacks. With friendly English and Japanese speaking staff.  https://www.facebook.com/bearfootbar

The Red House 

Located in the heart of Rusutsu Ski Resort, just cross the main road and it’s behind the Seicomart Convenience store. The restaurant features a mix of Japanese, Asian fusion, and western Style dishes, including shabu-shabu with wagyu beef and Hokkaido wagyu beef steak. Open winter and summer, 12-3pm for lunch, 5-9pm for dinner, with prices ranging from under Yen 1000 to about Yen 5000. https://theredhouse.jp/

 Rusutsu Lodges

Open all year round. Located 5 minutes walk to the main Rusutsu Ski Resort Gondola. There are Japanese, Western, and apartment style rooms with breakfast packages available. There’s a Japanese sento (public bath), two convenience stores less than a minute walk, ski room and tune up tables, plenty of free parking space, and summer BBQ packages available. Check out the website for more information and availability. http://rusutsulodges.com

 Hokkaido Guide

Established over 10 years ago, written by locals for locals and international tourists. The guide contains information on all types of businesses and locations around Hokkaido. There's information regarding all things Hokkaido such as sightseeing, nightlife, events, services, food and restaurants, entertainment, outdoor activities, and more. Currently offered in English and Thai, advertising space available. Check out website for everything you need to know about this beautiful prefecture. https://hokkaidoguide.com

Website:

https://www.voicesinjapan.com/

Follow us and check out our other content:

https://twitter.com/voicesinjapan

https://www.facebook.com/voicesinjapan/

https://www.instagram.com/voicesinjapan/

Get in touch:

voicesinjapan@gmail.com

Support the show

15 May 2019The Importance of Blood Type in Japan00:38:57

Do you know your blood type? Well, if you are visiting or living in Japan, you should. Knowing one’s blood type is common in Japan and the Japanese are very curious to know yours. There are four main types that most people fall into. The most common blood type in Japan is type A and is the most desired type to be. Why is that? 

Similar to star signs from the Chinese Zodiac, the different blood types represent particular character and personality traits. There are also, supposedly, certain blood types that go well together, and others that are a complete disaster. Would you decide your partner based on their blood type?

Conversation highlights:

  • What are the main blood types and what character traits do they represent?
  • Percentage distribution of blood types in Japan, US and the UK.
  • Why most Japanese aspire to be blood type A.
  • What are Ben and Burke’s blood types?
  • Burke shares the story of finding out his blood type in Japan.
  • Blood type used for compatibility.
  • Why is blood type important to Japanese people?
  • Japanese words of the day.
  • Listener question: Why did Ben and Burke come to Japan?
  • What the hosts think of the TV show “You wa nani shi ni nippon eh?” (Why did you come to Japan).

In the past blood type has been used to judge people in Japan, in particular there were instances when Japanese companies would reject potential employees if their blood type was undesirable. This led to people lying about their blood types on their applications. Fortunately, now, blood type is not a requirement when job hunting. I wonder if there was ever an issue with star signs in western countries? 

Although Japanese people are interested in knowing about blood types, many foreigners still don’t know theirs, and don’t really think it is important. It is necessary to know one’s blood type for medical operations, but when that happens the hospital can find out as and when without needing the patient to know. They should find out for themselves because the patient might even lie about their blood type to be more desirable!

If you enjoyed the episode please leave us a review on iTunes. It only takes a minute! It would really help us get out there and we would really appreciate it. 

Website:

http://podcast.voicesinjapan.com

Follow us and check out our other content:

https://twitter.com/voicesinjapan

https://www.facebook.com/voicesinjapan/

https://www.instagram.com/voicesinjapan/

Get in touch: 

voicesinjapan@gmail.com

Support the show

19 Sep 2022Top 8 Must Visit Places in Hokkaido00:51:22

Ben and Matt talk about some of the best places, off the beaten track, to visit in Hokkaido. These include Erimo, Notsuke, Rausu, Mizunashi Kaihin hot spring and more!

Sponsors:

Bearfoot Bar

Located in downtown Sapporo, walking distance from the subway station. There are  variety of Japanese made craft bottled beers. A wide range of regular and unique spirits and basic cocktails also available. Burgers and pub style snacks. With friendly English and Japanese speaking staff.  https://www.facebook.com/bearfootbar
 

The Red House 

Located in the heart of Rusutsu Ski Resort, just cross the main road and it’s behind the Seicomart Convenience store. The restaurant features a mix of Japanese, Asian fusion, and western Style dishes, including shabu-shabu with wagyu beef and Hokkaido wagyu beef steak. Open winter and summer, 12-3pm for lunch, 5-9pm for dinner, with prices ranging from under Yen 1000 to about Yen 5000. https://theredhouse.jp/


 Rusutsu Lodges

Open all year round. Located 5 minutes walk to the main Rusutsu Ski Resort Gondola. There are Japanese, Western, and apartment style rooms with breakfast packages available. There’s a Japanese sento (public bath), two convenience stores less than a minute walk, ski room and tune up tables, plenty of free parking space, and summer BBQ packages available. Check out the website for more information and availability. http://rusutsulodges.com


 Hokkaido Guide

Established over 10 years ago, written by locals for locals and international tourists. The guide contains information on all types of businesses and locations around Hokkaido. There's information regarding all things Hokkaido such as sightseeing, nightlife, events, services, food and restaurants, entertainment, outdoor activities, and more. Currently offered in English and Thai, advertising space available. Check out website for everything you need to know about this beautiful prefecture. https://hokkaidoguide.com


Use our Buzzsprout affiliate link to start your podcast today!
 
Website:

https://www.voicesinjapan.com/
Follow us and check out our other content:

https://twitter.com/voicesinjapan

https://www.facebook.com/voicesinjapan/

https://www.instagram.com/voicesinjapan/

Get in touch: 

voicesinjapan@gmail.com

Support the show

26 Sep 2022Life of a Japanese High School Student00:53:32

In this episode we are joined by special guest, Jon. Together we chat about what it's like to teach at a Japanese high school. We offer insight into the differences between Japanese high schools and high schools back in our own countries. We look at club activities, high school uniforms, bullying, discipline, plus a lot more!

Sponsors:

Bearfoot Bar

Located in downtown Sapporo, walking distance from the subway station. There are  variety of Japanese made craft bottled beers. A wide range of regular and unique spirits and basic cocktails also available. Burgers and pub style snacks. With friendly English and Japanese speaking staff.  https://www.facebook.com/bearfootbar
 

The Red House 

Located in the heart of Rusutsu Ski Resort, just cross the main road and it’s behind the Seicomart Convenience store. The restaurant features a mix of Japanese, Asian fusion, and western Style dishes, including shabu-shabu with wagyu beef and Hokkaido wagyu beef steak. Open winter and summer, 12-3pm for lunch, 5-9pm for dinner, with prices ranging from under Yen 1000 to about Yen 5000. https://theredhouse.jp/


 Rusutsu Lodges

Open all year round. Located 5 minutes walk to the main Rusutsu Ski Resort Gondola. There are Japanese, Western, and apartment style rooms with breakfast packages available. There’s a Japanese sento (public bath), two convenience stores less than a minute walk, ski room and tune up tables, plenty of free parking space, and summer BBQ packages available. Check out the website for more information and availability. http://rusutsulodges.com


 Hokkaido Guide

Established over 10 years ago, written by locals for locals and international tourists. The guide contains information on all types of businesses and locations around Hokkaido. There's information regarding all things Hokkaido such as sightseeing, nightlife, events, services, food and restaurants, entertainment, outdoor activities, and more. Currently offered in English and Thai, advertising space available. Check out website for everything you need to know about this beautiful prefecture. https://hokkaidoguide.com


Use our Buzzsprout affiliate link to start your podcast today!
 
Website:

https://www.voicesinjapan.com/
Follow us and check out our other content:

https://twitter.com/voicesinjapan

https://www.facebook.com/voicesinjapan/

https://www.instagram.com/voicesinjapan/

Get in touch: 

voicesinjapan@gmail.com

Support the show


Support the show

03 Oct 2022Why the Japanese are not happy about the Ex PM’s state funeral00:52:14

Ben and Matt talk about the controversy  surrounding former Prime minister Shinzo Abe’s state funeral and why many Japanese are not happy about it. They also discuss Japan opening up its borders to tourists from October 11, 2022. 

Sponsors:

Bearfoot Bar

Located in downtown Sapporo, walking distance from the subway station. There are  variety of Japanese made craft bottled beers. A wide range of regular and unique spirits and basic cocktails also available. Burgers and pub style snacks. With friendly English and Japanese speaking staff.  https://www.facebook.com/bearfootbar
 

The Red House 

Located in the heart of Rusutsu Ski Resort, just cross the main road and it’s behind the Seicomart Convenience store. The restaurant features a mix of Japanese, Asian fusion, and western Style dishes, including shabu-shabu with wagyu beef and Hokkaido wagyu beef steak. Open winter and summer, 12-3pm for lunch, 5-9pm for dinner, with prices ranging from under Yen 1000 to about Yen 5000. https://theredhouse.jp/


 Rusutsu Lodges

Open all year round. Located 5 minutes walk to the main Rusutsu Ski Resort Gondola. There are Japanese, Western, and apartment style rooms with breakfast packages available. There’s a Japanese sento (public bath), two convenience stores less than a minute walk, ski room and tune up tables, plenty of free parking space, and summer BBQ packages available. Check out the website for more information and availability. http://rusutsulodges.com


 Hokkaido Guide

Established over 10 years ago, written by locals for locals and international tourists. The guide contains information on all types of businesses and locations around Hokkaido. There's information regarding all things Hokkaido such as sightseeing, nightlife, events, services, food and restaurants, entertainment, outdoor activities, and more. Currently offered in English and Thai, advertising space available. Check out website for everything you need to know about this beautiful prefecture. https://hokkaidoguide.com


Use our Buzzsprout affiliate link to start your podcast today!
 
Website:

https://www.voicesinjapan.com/
Follow us and check out our other content:

https://twitter.com/voicesinjapan

https://www.facebook.com/voicesinjapan/

https://www.instagram.com/voicesinjapan/

Get in touch: 

voicesinjapan@gmail.com

Support the show

18 Oct 2022How to Start a Business in Japan01:01:40

On this episode we are joined by local Sapporo business owner, Gareth. We discuss how to go about starting your own business in Japan, how to start out and some of the do's and don'ts! We also talk about what it's like to run a bar and the good points and bad points of owning a bar. We also talk about the borders opening, North Korea missiles and much more. This episode is packed with useful information so have a listen!

For those traveling to japan and become sick with covid, you can contact the Japan Visitor Hotline  at 050-3816-2787 for an over-the-phone consultation with a health professional.


Sponsors:

Bearfoot Bar

Located in downtown Sapporo, walking distance from the subway station. There are  variety of Japanese made craft bottled beers. A wide range of regular and unique spirits and basic cocktails also available. Burgers and pub style snacks. With friendly English and Japanese speaking staff.  https://www.facebook.com/bearfootbar
 

The Red House 

Located in the heart of Rusutsu Ski Resort, just cross the main road and it’s behind the Seicomart Convenience store. The restaurant features a mix of Japanese, Asian fusion, and western Style dishes, including shabu-shabu with wagyu beef and Hokkaido wagyu beef steak. Open winter and summer, 12-3pm for lunch, 5-9pm for dinner, with prices ranging from under Yen 1000 to about Yen 5000. https://theredhouse.jp/


 Rusutsu Lodges

Open all year round. Located 5 minutes walk to the main Rusutsu Ski Resort Gondola. There are Japanese, Western, and apartment style rooms with breakfast packages available. There’s a Japanese sento (public bath), two convenience stores less than a minute walk, ski room and tune up tables, plenty of free parking space, and summer BBQ packages available. Check out the website for more information and availability. http://rusutsulodges.com


 Hokkaido Guide

Established over 10 years ago, written by locals for locals and international tourists. The guide contains information on all types of businesses and locations around Hokkaido. There's information regarding all things Hokkaido such as sightseeing, nightlife, events, services, food and restaurants, entertainment, outdoor activities, and more. Currently offered in English and Thai, advertising space available. Check out website for everything you need to know about this beautiful prefecture. https://hokkaidoguide.com


Use our Buzzsprout affiliate link to start your podcast today!
 
Website:

https://www.voicesinjapan.com/
Follow us and check out our other content:

https://twitter.com/voicesinjapan

https://www.facebook.com/voicesinjapan/

https://www.instagram.com/voicesinjapan/

Get in touch: 

voicesinjapan@gmail.com

Support the show

Support the show

23 Oct 2022The Past and Present of Japan's Ainu People00:49:47

Ben and Matt talk about the Ainu, Japan's indigenous people. They discuss their past struggles, being finally recognized as an indigenous people by the Japanese government in 2019, places in Hokkaido with Ainu names, and much more.

Sponsors:

Bearfoot Bar

Located in downtown Sapporo, walking distance from the subway station. There are  variety of Japanese made craft bottled beers. A wide range of regular and unique spirits and basic cocktails also available. Burgers and pub style snacks. With friendly English and Japanese speaking staff.  https://www.facebook.com/bearfootbar
 

The Red House 

Located in the heart of Rusutsu Ski Resort, just cross the main road and it’s behind the Seicomart Convenience store. The restaurant features a mix of Japanese, Asian fusion, and western Style dishes, including shabu-shabu with wagyu beef and Hokkaido wagyu beef steak. Open winter and summer, 12-3pm for lunch, 5-9pm for dinner, with prices ranging from under Yen 1000 to about Yen 5000. https://theredhouse.jp/


 Rusutsu Lodges

Open all year round. Located 5 minutes walk to the main Rusutsu Ski Resort Gondola. There are Japanese, Western, and apartment style rooms with breakfast packages available. There’s a Japanese sento (public bath), two convenience stores less than a minute walk, ski room and tune up tables, plenty of free parking space, and summer BBQ packages available. Check out the website for more information and availability. http://rusutsulodges.com


 Hokkaido Guide

Established over 10 years ago, written by locals for locals and international tourists. The guide contains information on all types of businesses and locations around Hokkaido. There's information regarding all things Hokkaido such as sightseeing, nightlife, events, services, food and restaurants, entertainment, outdoor activities, and more. Currently offered in English and Thai, advertising space available. Check out website for everything you need to know about this beautiful prefecture. https://hokkaidoguide.com


Use our Buzzsprout affiliate link to start your podcast today!
 
Website:

https://www.voicesinjapan.com/
Follow us and check out our other content:

https://twitter.com/voicesinjapan

https://www.facebook.com/voicesinjapan/

https://www.instagram.com/voicesinjapan/

Get in touch: 

voicesinjapan@gmail.com

Support the show

31 Oct 2022Voices in Japan Halloween Special!00:55:18

On this Halloween special , Ben and Matt discuss some of the scariest places in Japan. Some of these places can be visited if you dare. You can read more about them by clicking here. Ben also shares some famous ghost stories from Japan (one of which our recording mysteriously stopped halfway through...) plus much more! Hope you all have a great Halloween and enjoy this Halloween special! 

Sponsors:

Bearfoot Bar

Located in downtown Sapporo, walking distance from the subway station. There are  variety of Japanese made craft bottled beers. A wide range of regular and unique spirits and basic cocktails also available. Burgers and pub style snacks. With friendly English and Japanese speaking staff.  https://www.facebook.com/bearfootbar
 

The Red House 

Located in the heart of Rusutsu Ski Resort, just cross the main road and it’s behind the Seicomart Convenience store. The restaurant features a mix of Japanese, Asian fusion, and western Style dishes, including shabu-shabu with wagyu beef and Hokkaido wagyu beef steak. Open winter and summer, 12-3pm for lunch, 5-9pm for dinner, with prices ranging from under Yen 1000 to about Yen 5000. https://theredhouse.jp/


 Rusutsu Lodges

Open all year round. Located 5 minutes walk to the main Rusutsu Ski Resort Gondola. There are Japanese, Western, and apartment style rooms with breakfast packages available. There’s a Japanese sento (public bath), two convenience stores less than a minute walk, ski room and tune up tables, plenty of free parking space, and summer BBQ packages available. Check out the website for more information and availability. http://rusutsulodges.com


 Hokkaido Guide

Established over 10 years ago, written by locals for locals and international tourists. The guide contains information on all types of businesses and locations around Hokkaido. There's information regarding all things Hokkaido such as sightseeing, nightlife, events, services, food and restaurants, entertainment, outdoor activities, and more. Currently offered in English and Thai, advertising space available. Check out website for everything you need to know about this beautiful prefecture. https://hokkaidoguide.com


Use our Buzzsprout affiliate link to start your podcast today!
 
Website:

https://www.voicesinjapan.com/
Follow us and check out our other content:

https://twitter.com/voicesinjapan

https://www.facebook.com/voicesinjapan/

https://www.instagram.com/voicesinjapan/

Get in touch: 

voicesinjapan@gmail.com

Support the show

Support the show

13 Nov 20226 Things Travellers Should Know When Visiting Japan00:46:48

Listen to this episode ad free + exclusive episodes and bonus material at https://www.patreon.com/voicesinjapan

Ben and Matt discuss some of important things to consider before you come to Japan. Those include masks, vegans having trouble finding vegan food, intimidating toilets and much more.

Sponsors:

Bearfoot Bar

Located in downtown Sapporo, walking distance from the subway station. There are  variety of Japanese made craft bottled beers. A wide range of regular and unique spirits and basic cocktails also available. Burgers and pub style snacks. With friendly English and Japanese speaking staff.  https://www.facebook.com/bearfootbar
 

The Red House 

Located in the heart of Rusutsu Ski Resort, just cross the main road and it’s behind the Seicomart Convenience store. The restaurant features a mix of Japanese, Asian fusion, and western Style dishes, including shabu-shabu with wagyu beef and Hokkaido wagyu beef steak. Open winter and summer, 12-3pm for lunch, 5-9pm for dinner, with prices ranging from under Yen 1000 to about Yen 5000. https://theredhouse.jp/


 Rusutsu Lodges

Open all year round. Located 5 minutes walk to the main Rusutsu Ski Resort Gondola. There are Japanese, Western, and apartment style rooms with breakfast packages available. There’s a Japanese sento (public bath), two convenience stores less than a minute walk, ski room and tune up tables, plenty of free parking space, and summer BBQ packages available. Check out the website for more information and availability. http://rusutsulodges.com


 Hokkaido Guide

Established over 10 years ago, written by locals for locals and international tourists. The guide contains information on all types of businesses and locations around Hokkaido. There's information regarding all things Hokkaido such as sightseeing, nightlife, events, services, food and restaurants, entertainment, outdoor activities, and more. Currently offered in English and Thai, advertising space available. Check out website for everything you need to know about this beautiful prefecture. https://hokkaidoguide.com


Use our Buzzsprout affiliate link to start your podcast today!
 
Website:

https://www.voicesinjapan.com/
Follow us and check out our other content:

https://youtube.com/@voicesinjapanpodcast

https://twitter.com/voicesinjapan

https://www.facebook.com/voicesinjapan/

https://www.instagram.com/voicesinjapan/

Get in touch: 

voicesinjapan@gmail.com


Help support us at:

https://www.patreon.com/voicesinjapan


Support the show

22 May 2019Lights, Camera, Action! Breaking into the Japanese Entertainment Industry00:42:49

If you were living in Japan, would you be interested in being a model or appearing on Japanese television? Do you meet the requirements to make the cut? Entertainment is one industry that foreigners in Japan can explore simply for the novelty of . . . being a foreigner! Listen to Matt explain his experience with fashion shoots, commercials, variety television shows, and being on the other side of the lens as a photographer himself (http://www.instagram.com/mattink919). 

Also, are you considering a visit to Hokkaido and want to know the best spots for sightseeing? Do you live in Sapporo and need some ideas for a nice cafe, bar or restaurant to enjoy? Check out HokkaidoGuide.com (a tourism website that Matt is a part of) for all the information you need to learn about the food, nature, date spots, and adventures this paradise island has to offer!

Conversation highlights:

  • What are the requirements for being a model in Japan?
  • How was Matt recruited for modeling?
  • How many photo shoots and commercials has Matt done?
  • What is the environment like during a modeling shoot in Japan?
  • What famous Japanese comedian from Sapporo did Matt join on a variety show, and how did he find the experience of working with a famous TV personality?
  • Where has Ben seen that same famous person around Sapporo?
  • What are the guys’ impressions of the typical Japanese female model?
  • What is a great way to ensure that you can continue getting modeling work in Japan?
  • How did Matt get started in photography?
  • What projects is Matt working on now?
  • How long has Matt been producing content for Garreth’s website HokkaidoGuide.com? 
  • What are three places that Matt recommends as must-see locations in Hokkaido?
  • Details on the first settlers of Hokkaido. 
  • The black bear population in Japan. 
  • What is the Sankebetsu Brown Bear Incident, upon which a movie is based?
  • What food does Japan eat more than any other country?
  • When did the Ezo wolf go extinct?
  • What was the first Japanese manga, and what year was it created?

While not for everyone, modeling can be a great way to make some extra yen while teaching or working in Japan. Listen now to find out if you would really want to try it! Our podcasters enjoyed a lot of laughs listening to Matt’s experience, and also failed miserably when quizzed about Hokkaido and Japan. Press play to listen, and thanks for tuning into the show!

Website:

http://podcast.voicesinjapan.com

Follow us and check out our other content:

https://twitter.com/voicesinjapan

https://www.facebook.com/voicesinjapan/

https://www.instagram.com/voicesinjapan/

Get in touch: 

voicesinjapan@gmail.com

Support the show

20 Nov 2022Money Saving Tips in Japan00:49:54

Ben and Matt discuss some ways to save money when visiting or living in Japan. These include using the 100 yen shops, making use of point cards, eating cheaply, and much more.

Help support us at:

https://www.patreon.com/voicesinjapan


Sponsors:

Bearfoot Bar

Located in downtown Sapporo, walking distance from the subway station. There are  variety of Japanese made craft bottled beers. A wide range of regular and unique spirits and basic cocktails also available. Burgers and pub style snacks. With friendly English and Japanese speaking staff.  https://www.facebook.com/bearfootbar
 

The Red House 

Located in the heart of Rusutsu Ski Resort, just cross the main road and it’s behind the Seicomart Convenience store. The restaurant features a mix of Japanese, Asian fusion, and western Style dishes, including shabu-shabu with wagyu beef and Hokkaido wagyu beef steak. Open winter and summer, 12-3pm for lunch, 5-9pm for dinner, with prices ranging from under Yen 1000 to about Yen 5000. https://theredhouse.jp/


 Rusutsu Lodges

Open all year round. Located 5 minutes walk to the main Rusutsu Ski Resort Gondola. There are Japanese, Western, and apartment style rooms with breakfast packages available. There’s a Japanese sento (public bath), two convenience stores less than a minute walk, ski room and tune up tables, plenty of free parking space, and summer BBQ packages available. Check out the website for more information and availability. http://rusutsulodges.com


 Hokkaido Guide

Established over 10 years ago, written by locals for locals and international tourists. The guide contains information on all types of businesses and locations around Hokkaido. There's information regarding all things Hokkaido such as sightseeing, nightlife, events, services, food and restaurants, entertainment, outdoor activities, and more. Currently offered in English and Thai, advertising space available. Check out website for everything you need to know about this beautiful prefecture. https://hokkaidoguide.com


Use our Buzzsprout affiliate link to start your podcast today!
 
Website:

https://www.voicesinjapan.com/
Follow us and check out our other content:

https://twitter.com/voicesinjapan

https://www.facebook.com/voicesinjapan/

https://www.instagram.com/voicesinjapan/

Get in touch: 

voicesinjapan@gmail.com



Support the show

27 Nov 2022The Top 10 Ski Resorts in Japan00:50:53

Ben and Matt talk about the best 10 ski resorts in Japan.

Sponsors:

Bearfoot Bar

Located in downtown Sapporo, walking distance from the subway station. There are  variety of Japanese made craft bottled beers. A wide range of regular and unique spirits and basic cocktails also available. Burgers and pub style snacks. With friendly English and Japanese speaking staff.  https://www.facebook.com/bearfootbar
 

The Red House 

Located in the heart of Rusutsu Ski Resort, just cross the main road and it’s behind the Seicomart Convenience store. The restaurant features a mix of Japanese, Asian fusion, and western Style dishes, including shabu-shabu with wagyu beef and Hokkaido wagyu beef steak. Open winter and summer, 12-3pm for lunch, 5-9pm for dinner, with prices ranging from under Yen 1000 to about Yen 5000. https://theredhouse.jp/


 Rusutsu Lodges

Open all year round. Located 5 minutes walk to the main Rusutsu Ski Resort Gondola. There are Japanese, Western, and apartment style rooms with breakfast packages available. There’s a Japanese sento (public bath), two convenience stores less than a minute walk, ski room and tune up tables, plenty of free parking space, and summer BBQ packages available. Check out the website for more information and availability. http://rusutsulodges.com


 Hokkaido Guide

Established over 10 years ago, written by locals for locals and international tourists. The guide contains information on all types of businesses and locations around Hokkaido. There's information regarding all things Hokkaido such as sightseeing, nightlife, events, services, food and restaurants, entertainment, outdoor activities, and more. Currently offered in English and Thai, advertising space available. Check out website for everything you need to know about this beautiful prefecture. https://hokkaidoguide.com


Use our Buzzsprout affiliate link to start your podcast today!
 
Website:

https://www.voicesinjapan.com/
Follow us and check out our other content:

https://twitter.com/voicesinjapan

https://www.facebook.com/voicesinjapan/

https://www.instagram.com/voicesinjapan/

Get in touch: 

voicesinjapan@gmail.com


Help support us at:

https://www.patreon.com/voicesinjapan


Support the show

11 Dec 2022How Much Do You Know About Japanese Onsens?00:55:42

Ben gives Matt a quiz to test his knowledge about Japanese Onsens. Play along and see if you can do better than Matt. Enjoy the show!

Sponsors:

Bearfoot Bar

Located in downtown Sapporo, walking distance from the subway station. There are  variety of Japanese made craft bottled beers. A wide range of regular and unique spirits and basic cocktails also available. Burgers and pub style snacks. With friendly English and Japanese speaking staff.  https://www.facebook.com/bearfootbar
 
The Red House 

Located in the heart of Rusutsu Ski Resort, just cross the main road and it’s behind the Seicomart Convenience store. The restaurant features a mix of Japanese, Asian fusion, and western Style dishes, including shabu-shabu with wagyu beef and Hokkaido wagyu beef steak. Open winter and summer, 12-3pm for lunch, 5-9pm for dinner, with prices ranging from under Yen 1000 to about Yen 5000. https://theredhouse.jp/


Rusutsu Lodges

Open all year round. Located 5 minutes walk to the main Rusutsu Ski Resort Gondola. There are Japanese, Western, and apartment style rooms with breakfast packages available. There’s a Japanese sento (public bath), two convenience stores less than a minute walk, ski room and tune up tables, plenty of free parking space, and summer BBQ packages available. Check out the website for more information and availability. http://rusutsulodges.com


Hokkaido Guide

Established over 10 years ago, written by locals for locals and international tourists. The guide contains information on all types of businesses and locations around Hokkaido. There's information regarding all things Hokkaido such as sightseeing, nightlife, events, services, food and restaurants, entertainment, outdoor activities, and more. Currently offered in English and Thai, advertising space available. Check out website for everything you need to know about this beautiful prefecture. https://hokkaidoguide.com


Use our Buzzsprout affiliate link to start your podcast today!
 
Website:

https://www.voicesinjapan.com/
Follow us and check out our other content:

https://twitter.com/voicesinjapan

https://www.facebook.com/voicesinjapan/

https://www.instagram.com/voicesinjapan/

Get in touch: 

voicesinjapan@gmail.com


Help support us at:

https://www.patreon.com/voicesinjapan


Support the show

18 Dec 2022Delving Deeper into Japan’s Ainu People01:00:06

Special guest Matt Cotter, a lecturer from New Zealand who teaches Indigenous studies including Ainu and Maori culture joins Ben and Matt and the show. 

We talk about Matt’s Maori heritage, how he became interested in Ainu culture, learning Ainu language, what the Japanese Government are doing for the Ainu, and much much more.

If you want to read about some stories about the Maori of New Zealand, check out Matt Cotter’s book, Identity: A Global Issues Narrative.

If you haven't already, listen to our previous episode about the Ainu:

The Past and Present of Japan's Ainu People

Sponsors:

Bearfoot Bar

Located in downtown Sapporo, walking distance from the subway station. There are  variety of Japanese made craft bottled beers. A wide range of regular and unique spirits and basic cocktails also available. Burgers and pub style snacks. With friendly English and Japanese speaking staff.  https://www.facebook.com/bearfootbar
 

The Red House 

Located in the heart of Rusutsu Ski Resort, just cross the main road and it’s behind the Seicomart Convenience store. The restaurant features a mix of Japanese, Asian fusion, and western Style dishes, including shabu-shabu with wagyu beef and Hokkaido wagyu beef steak. Open winter and summer, 12-3pm for lunch, 5-9pm for dinner, with prices ranging from under Yen 1000 to about Yen 5000. https://theredhouse.jp/


 Rusutsu Lodges

Open all year round. Located 5 minutes walk to the main Rusutsu Ski Resort Gondola. There are Japanese, Western, and apartment style rooms with breakfast packages available. There’s a Japanese sento (public bath), two convenience stores less than a minute walk, ski room and tune up tables, plenty of free parking space, and summer BBQ packages available. Check out the website for more information and availability. http://rusutsulodges.com


 Hokkaido Guide

Established over 10 years ago, written by locals for locals and international tourists. The guide contains information on all types of businesses and locations around Hokkaido. There's information regarding all things Hokkaido such as sightseeing, nightlife, events, services, food and restaurants, entertainment, outdoor activities, and more. Currently offered in English and Thai, advertising space available. Check out website for everything you need to know about this beautiful prefecture. https://hokkaidoguide.com


Use our Buzzsprout affiliate link to start your podcast today!
 
Website:

https://www.voicesinjapan.com/

Follow us and check out our other content:

https://youtube.com/@voicesinjapanpodcast

https://twitter.com/voicesinjapan

https://www.facebook.com/voicesinjapan/

https://www.instagram.com/voicesinjapan/

Get in touch: 

voicesinjapan@gmail.com


Help support us at:

https://www.patreon.com/voicesinjapan
https://www.buymeacoffee.com/voicesinjapan

Support the show

26 Dec 2022Burke Returns for the Monster 2022 Quiz!01:01:24

Burke is back with Ben and Matt for the annual Japan quiz. Can you do better than Ben or Burke? Let us know! Enjoy the show and Happy New Year!

Sponsors:

Bearfoot Bar

Located in downtown Sapporo, walking distance from the subway station. There are  variety of Japanese made craft bottled beers. A wide range of regular and unique spirits and basic cocktails also available. Burgers and pub style snacks. With friendly English and Japanese speaking staff.  https://www.facebook.com/bearfootbar
 
The Red House 

Located in the heart of Rusutsu Ski Resort, just cross the main road and it’s behind the Seicomart Convenience store. The restaurant features a mix of Japanese, Asian fusion, and western Style dishes, including shabu-shabu with wagyu beef and Hokkaido wagyu beef steak. Open winter and summer, 12-3pm for lunch, 5-9pm for dinner, with prices ranging from under Yen 1000 to about Yen 5000. https://theredhouse.jp/

Rusutsu Lodges

Open all year round. Located 5 minutes walk to the main Rusutsu Ski Resort Gondola. There are Japanese, Western, and apartment style rooms with breakfast packages available. There’s a Japanese sento (public bath), two convenience stores less than a minute walk, ski room and tune up tables, plenty of free parking space, and summer BBQ packages available. Check out the website for more information and availability. http://rusutsulodges.com


Hokkaido Guide

Established over 10 years ago, written by locals for locals and international tourists. The guide contains information on all types of businesses and locations around Hokkaido. There's information regarding all things Hokkaido such as sightseeing, nightlife, events, services, food and restaurants, entertainment, outdoor activities, and more. Currently offered in English and Thai, advertising space available. Check out website for everything you need to know about this beautiful prefecture. https://hokkaidoguide.com


Use our Buzzsprout affiliate link to start your podcast today!

Website:
https://www.voicesinjapan.com/

Follow us and check out our other content:

https://youtube.com/@voicesinjapanpodcast

https://twitter.com/voicesinjapan

https://www.facebook.com/voicesinjapan/

https://www.instagram.com/voicesinjapan/

Get in touch: 

voicesinjapan@gmail.com


Help support us at:

https://www.patreon.com/voicesinjapan

https://www.buymeacoffee.com/voicesinjapan

Support the show

29 May 2019Quirky Japan: Face Masks, Monster Crows, and Ghosts00:42:37

There are many quirky things about Japan. On this episode we talk about three such things. You will see people wearing face masks everywhere in Japan. There are a number reasons such as preventing colds, keeping their faces warm, and women sometimes wear them when they cannot be bothered to wear makeup. Even Burke has worn a mask to hide his stubble at work!

Monster crows are everywhere in Japan. They are huge and quite frightening. They are very intelligent, so do not ever attack one because they will remember you! Be very wary around crows.

Many Japanese people believe in ghosts, more so that in the West, and actually, talking about ghosts is a bit of a taboo subject. However, your podcast hosts are more than happy to share their opinions and their creepy experiences in Japan.

Conversation Highlights:

  • When have our hosts worn face masks?
  • The reasons why Japanese people wear face masks.
  • Burke shares an amusing story concerning his work and face masks.
  • Do the podcasters believe face masks prevent colds?
  • Some women becoming more attractive when wearing face masks.
  • black “ninja” face masks.
  • designer face masks.
  • “monster” crows in Japan.
  • Burke thinking a crow was a baby.
  • Crows not being afraid of people anymore.
  • Crows are very intelligent and have good memories.
  • Why did the garbage bags in Japan change to yellow?
  • Most Japanese people believe in ghosts.
  • The hosts tell some stories of their experiences with ghosts.
  • Do our hosts believe in ghosts and the reasons why.
  • Has Burke seen a ghost?
  • Japanese TV ghost prank shows.
  • Ghost houses in Japan.
  • Watching horror movies.
  • Japanese words of the day: “Urusai” and “Irasshaimase”.


Japan definitely has many quirky and unique things, and in future episodes we hope to talk about many more. If there are any Japanese quirks you would like us to discuss, get in touch on social media or drop us a quick email.

Finally, if you enjoy the Voices in Japan podcast, it would really help us out f you could leave a rating and review on iTunes. It only takes a minute and we would really appreciate it. And of course, please share us with your friends.

Website:

http://podcast.voicesinjapan.com

Follow us and check out our other content:

https://twitter.com/voicesinjapan

https://www.facebook.com/voicesinjapan/

https://www.instagram.com/voicesinjapan/

Get in touch: 

voicesinjapan@gmail.com



Support the show

15 Jan 202310 Ways to Celebrate New Year’s Like a Local in Japan00:55:55

Ben and Matt talk about what they did for New Year's and discuss 10 things that Japanese do at this special time.

Sponsors:

Bearfoot Bar

Located in downtown Sapporo, walking distance from the subway station. There are  variety of Japanese made craft bottled beers. A wide range of regular and unique spirits and basic cocktails also available. Burgers and pub style snacks. With friendly English and Japanese speaking staff.  https://www.facebook.com/bearfootbar
 
The Red House 

Located in the heart of Rusutsu Ski Resort, just cross the main road and it’s behind the Seicomart Convenience store. The restaurant features a mix of Japanese, Asian fusion, and western Style dishes, including shabu-shabu with wagyu beef and Hokkaido wagyu beef steak. Open winter and summer, 12-3pm for lunch, 5-9pm for dinner, with prices ranging from under Yen 1000 to about Yen 5000. https://theredhouse.jp/


Rusutsu Lodges

Open all year round. Located 5 minutes walk to the main Rusutsu Ski Resort Gondola. There are Japanese, Western, and apartment style rooms with breakfast packages available. There’s a Japanese sento (public bath), two convenience stores less than a minute walk, ski room and tune up tables, plenty of free parking space, and summer BBQ packages available. Check out the website for more information and availability. http://rusutsulodges.com


 Hokkaido Guide

Established over 10 years ago, written by locals for locals and international tourists. The guide contains information on all types of businesses and locations around Hokkaido. There's information regarding all things Hokkaido such as sightseeing, nightlife, events, services, food and restaurants, entertainment, outdoor activities, and more. Currently offered in English and Thai, advertising space available. Check out website for everything you need to know about this beautiful prefecture. https://hokkaidoguide.com


Use our Buzzsprout affiliate link to start your podcast today!
 
Website:

https://www.voicesinjapan.com/

Follow us and check out our other content:

https://youtube.com/@voicesinjapanpodcast

https://twitter.com/voicesinjapan

https://www.facebook.com/voicesinjapan/

https://www.instagram.com/voicesinjapan/

Get in touch: 

voicesinjapan@gmail.com


Help support us at:

https://www.patreon.com/voicesinjapan

https://www.buymeacoffee.com/voicesinjapan

Support the show

29 Jan 2023Top 10 Cultural Experiences in Japan01:05:53

Ben and Matt talk about the 10 best things to experience in Japan.

Check out the previous episodes mentioned in the show:

Can Sumo Wrestling  make a Comeback
Becoming a Japanese Tea Ceremony Master

Sponsors:

Bearfoot Bar

Located in downtown Sapporo, walking distance from the subway station. There are  variety of Japanese made craft bottled beers. A wide range of regular and unique spirits and basic cocktails also available. Burgers and pub style snacks. With friendly English and Japanese speaking staff.  https://www.facebook.com/bearfootbar
 

The Red House 

Located in the heart of Rusutsu Ski Resort, just cross the main road and it’s behind the Seicomart Convenience store. The restaurant features a mix of Japanese, Asian fusion, and western Style dishes, including shabu-shabu with wagyu beef and Hokkaido wagyu beef steak. Open winter and summer, 12-3pm for lunch, 5-9pm for dinner, with prices ranging from under Yen 1000 to about Yen 5000. https://theredhouse.jp/


 Rusutsu Lodges

Open all year round. Located 5 minutes walk to the main Rusutsu Ski Resort Gondola. There are Japanese, Western, and apartment style rooms with breakfast packages available. There’s a Japanese sento (public bath), two convenience stores less than a minute walk, ski room and tune up tables, plenty of free parking space, and summer BBQ packages available. Check out the website for more information and availability. http://rusutsulodges.com


 Hokkaido Guide

Established over 10 years ago, written by locals for locals and international tourists. The guide contains information on all types of businesses and locations around Hokkaido. There's information regarding all things Hokkaido such as sightseeing, nightlife, events, services, food and restaurants, entertainment, outdoor activities, and more. Currently offered in English and Thai, advertising space available. Check out website for everything you need to know about this beautiful prefecture. https://hokkaidoguide.com


Use our Buzzsprout affiliate link to start your podcast today!
 
Website:

https://www.voicesinjapan.com/
Follow us and check out our other content:

https://youtube.com/@voicesinjapanpodcast

https://twitter.com/voicesinjapan

https://www.facebook.com/voicesinjapan/

https://www.instagram.com/voicesinjapan/

Get in touch: 

voicesinjapan@gmail.com


Help support us at:

https://www.patreon.com/voicesinjapan

https://www.buymeacoffee.com/voicesinjapan

Support the show

05 Feb 2023Is Japan Still Stuck in the Past?00:49:03

Special guest Miyoko returns to the pod. We discuss the current issues facing Japan such as the shrinking population, resistance to change, the Japanese youth, and much much more. Enjoy!

Miyoko's previous episode:
What do Japanese people think of Japanese stereotypes

Sponsors:

Bearfoot Bar

Located in downtown Sapporo, walking distance from the subway station. There are  variety of Japanese made craft bottled beers. A wide range of regular and unique spirits and basic cocktails also available. Burgers and pub style snacks. With friendly English and Japanese speaking staff.  https://www.facebook.com/bearfootbar
 

The Red House 

Located in the heart of Rusutsu Ski Resort, just cross the main road and it’s behind the Seicomart Convenience store. The restaurant features a mix of Japanese, Asian fusion, and western Style dishes, including shabu-shabu with wagyu beef and Hokkaido wagyu beef steak. Open winter and summer, 12-3pm for lunch, 5-9pm for dinner, with prices ranging from under Yen 1000 to about Yen 5000. https://theredhouse.jp/


 Rusutsu Lodges

Open all year round. Located 5 minutes walk to the main Rusutsu Ski Resort Gondola. There are Japanese, Western, and apartment style rooms with breakfast packages available. There’s a Japanese sento (public bath), two convenience stores less than a minute walk, ski room and tune up tables, plenty of free parking space, and summer BBQ packages available. Check out the website for more information and availability. http://rusutsulodges.com


 Hokkaido Guide

Established over 10 years ago, written by locals for locals and international tourists. The guide contains information on all types of businesses and locations around Hokkaido. There's information regarding all things Hokkaido such as sightseeing, nightlife, events, services, food and restaurants, entertainment, outdoor activities, and more. Currently offered in English and Thai, advertising space available. Check out website for everything you need to know about this beautiful prefecture. https://hokkaidoguide.com


Use our Buzzsprout affiliate link to start your podcast today!
 
Website:

https://www.voicesinjapan.com/
Follow us and check out our other content:

https://youtube.com/@voicesinjapanpodcast

https://twitter.com/voicesinjapan

https://www.facebook.com/voicesinjapan/

https://www.instagram.com/voicesinjapan/

Get in touch: 

voicesinjapan@gmail.com


Help support us at:

https://www.patreon.com/voicesinjapan

https://www.buymeacoffee.com/voicesinjapan

Support the show

13 Feb 2023Useful Phrases for Meeting Japanese People00:49:09

Matt, Ben, and Burke discuss useful phrases for meeting Japanese people based on an article from Jobs in Japan. They also review the recently completed 73rd Sapporo Snow Festival, gross crimes occurring at conveyor belt sushi restaurants in Japan, and Japanese crime bosses living in the Philippine jail system.

Sponsors:

Bearfoot Bar

Located in downtown Sapporo, walking distance from the subway station. There are  variety of Japanese made craft bottled beers. A wide range of regular and unique spirits and basic cocktails also available. Burgers and pub style snacks. With friendly English and Japanese speaking staff.  https://www.facebook.com/bearfootbar

The Red House 

Located in the heart of Rusutsu Ski Resort, just cross the main road and it’s behind the Seicomart Convenience store. The restaurant features a mix of Japanese, Asian fusion, and western Style dishes, including shabu-shabu with wagyu beef and Hokkaido wagyu beef steak. Open winter and summer, 12-3pm for lunch, 5-9pm for dinner, with prices ranging from under Yen 1000 to about Yen 5000. https://theredhouse.jp/
 
Rusutsu Lodges

Open all year round. Located 5 minutes walk to the main Rusutsu Ski Resort Gondola. There are Japanese, Western, and apartment style rooms with breakfast packages available. There’s a Japanese sento (public bath), two convenience stores less than a minute walk, ski room and tune up tables, plenty of free parking space, and summer BBQ packages available. Check out the website for more information and availability. http://rusutsulodges.com
 
Hokkaido Guide

Established over 10 years ago, written by locals for locals and international tourists. The guide contains information on all types of businesses and locations around Hokkaido. There's information regarding all things Hokkaido such as sightseeing, nightlife, events, services, food and restaurants, entertainment, outdoor activities, and more. Currently offered in English and Thai, advertising space available. Check out website for everything you need to know about this beautiful prefecture. https://hokkaidoguide.com

Use our Buzzsprout affiliate link to start your podcast today!

Website:

https://www.voicesinjapan.com/
Follow us and check out our other content:

https://youtube.com/@voicesinjapanpodcast

https://twitter.com/voicesinjapan

https://www.facebook.com/voicesinjapan/

https://www.instagram.com/voicesinjapan/

Get in touch: 

voicesinjapan@gmail.com

Help support us at:

https://www.patreon.com/voicesinjapan

https://www.buymeacoffee.com/voicesinjapan

Support the show

20 Feb 2023The Best Japanese for Traveling and Daily Life in Japan00:49:44

Ben, Matt, and Burke review the best Japanese words and phrases for traveling and daily life in Japan. They also go over some rules related to photography in Japan, hear about an epic snowboarding trip on Kurodake (one of Hokkaido's tallest mountains), and discuss a Yale professor's comments that seemed to suggest elderly people in Japan should consider mass suicide.

Sponsors:

Bearfoot Bar

Located in downtown Sapporo, walking distance from the subway station. There are  variety of Japanese made craft bottled beers. A wide range of regular and unique spirits and basic cocktails also available. Burgers and pub style snacks. With friendly English and Japanese speaking staff.  https://www.facebook.com/bearfootbar

The Red House 

Located in the heart of Rusutsu Ski Resort, just cross the main road and it’s behind the Seicomart Convenience store. The restaurant features a mix of Japanese, Asian fusion, and western Style dishes, including shabu-shabu with wagyu beef and Hokkaido wagyu beef steak. Open winter and summer, 12-3pm for lunch, 5-9pm for dinner, with prices ranging from under Yen 1000 to about Yen 5000. https://theredhouse.jp/
 
Rusutsu Lodges

Open all year round. Located 5 minutes walk to the main Rusutsu Ski Resort Gondola. There are Japanese, Western, and apartment style rooms with breakfast packages available. There’s a Japanese sento (public bath), two convenience stores less than a minute walk, ski room and tune up tables, plenty of free parking space, and summer BBQ packages available. Check out the website for more information and availability. http://rusutsulodges.com
 
Hokkaido Guide

Established over 10 years ago, written by locals for locals and international tourists. The guide contains information on all types of businesses and locations around Hokkaido. There's information regarding all things Hokkaido such as sightseeing, nightlife, events, services, food and restaurants, entertainment, outdoor activities, and more. Currently offered in English and Thai, advertising space available. Check out website for everything you need to know about this beautiful prefecture. https://hokkaidoguide.com

Use our Buzzsprout affiliate link to start your podcast today!

Website:

https://www.voicesinjapan.com/
Follow us and check out our other content:

https://youtube.com/@voicesinjapanpodcast

https://twitter.com/voicesinjapan

https://www.facebook.com/voicesinjapan/

https://www.instagram.com/voicesinjapan/

Get in touch: 

voicesinjapan@gmail.com

Help support us at:

https://www.patreon.com/voicesinjapan

https://www.buymeacoffee.com/voicesinjapan

Support the show

01 Mar 2023Space Balloon Tourism and Japanese People Struggling to Love Work00:41:47

Ben, Matt, and Burke discover a space balloon tourism company in their very own city of Sapporo! Meanwhile, Matt recently visited one of Hokkaido's most popular festivals in the port city of Otaru and calms Ben's fears of any possible fire hazards at the festival. Then Ben dives deep into understanding why Japanese people continue to hate their jobs in Japan. Do the guys feel the same? Listen to find out now!

Sponsors:

Bearfoot Bar

Located in downtown Sapporo, walking distance from the subway station. There are  variety of Japanese made craft bottled beers. A wide range of regular and unique spirits and basic cocktails also available. Burgers and pub style snacks. With friendly English and Japanese speaking staff.  https://www.facebook.com/bearfootbar

The Red House 

Located in the heart of Rusutsu Ski Resort, just cross the main road and it’s behind the Seicomart Convenience store. The restaurant features a mix of Japanese, Asian fusion, and western Style dishes, including shabu-shabu with wagyu beef and Hokkaido wagyu beef steak. Open winter and summer, 12-3pm for lunch, 5-9pm for dinner, with prices ranging from under Yen 1000 to about Yen 5000. https://theredhouse.jp/
 
Rusutsu Lodges

Open all year round. Located 5 minutes walk to the main Rusutsu Ski Resort Gondola. There are Japanese, Western, and apartment style rooms with breakfast packages available. There’s a Japanese sento (public bath), two convenience stores less than a minute walk, ski room and tune up tables, plenty of free parking space, and summer BBQ packages available. Check out the website for more information and availability. http://rusutsulodges.com
 
Hokkaido Guide

Established over 10 years ago, written by locals for locals and international tourists. The guide contains information on all types of businesses and locations around Hokkaido. There's information regarding all things Hokkaido such as sightseeing, nightlife, events, services, food and restaurants, entertainment, outdoor activities, and more. Currently offered in English and Thai, advertising space available. Check out website for everything you need to know about this beautiful prefecture. https://hokkaidoguide.com

Use our Buzzsprout affiliate link to start your podcast today!

Website:

https://www.voicesinjapan.com/
Follow us and check out our other content:

https://youtube.com/@voicesinjapanpodcast

https://twitter.com/voicesinjapan

https://www.facebook.com/voicesinjapan/

https://www.instagram.com/voicesinjapan/

Get in touch: 

voicesinjapan@gmail.com

Help support us at:

https://www.patreon.com/voicesinjapan

https://www.buymeacoffee.com/voicesinjapan




Support the show

05 Jun 2019The Weird World of Apartment Hunting and Buying in Japan00:37:08

If you are coming to Japan, are you already set up with a nice living space?  Or are you already living in Japan, and have you ever searched for an apartment on your own?  What kinds of challenges did you face?  Were you treated differently because you were a foreigner?

Our podcasters have lived in multiple apartments over their combined 28 years of being in Japan - convenient spots arranged through their companies, apartments haunted by fatalities in the past (a.k.a. jiko bukken), and Burke has recently gone through the process of purchasing his own place.  Apartment hunting is one of the most daunting tasks for life in Japan but probably unavoidable if you plan on being here for more than one or two years.  Listen now to learn about some of the pitfalls and mistakes that are often made by foreigners during the process, and also the requirements for securing a loan in an environment that some are worried might be heading towards a real estate bubble.

Conversation Highlights:

  • What types of apartments do schools set up for foreigners teaching English?
  • Why do renters, both Japanese and foreign, need guarantors?
  • What options do renters have for guarantors?
  • Before signing a lease, what do renters need to be very careful about?
  • What are some of the upfront costs, such as "reikin" (礼金) and "shikikin" (敷金)?
  • What did one "kanrigaisha" (管理会社), or management company, try to charge Ben for when he was moving out?
  • What damage costs was Burke able to avoid when moving out simply because he had rented with his Japanese wife?
  • Do foreigners face discrimination when renting in Japan?  Is it justified?
  • What sales techniques do real estate agents use to convince renters to choose an apartment?
  • What spooky discovery did Ben make about one of his apartments?
  • How do Japanese people deal with a problematic neighbor?
  • What are the current mortgage rates in Japan for residents and non-residents?
  • What requirements do banks have for approving loans, particularly for foreigners?
  • What is more important to qualify for a bank loan, income level or job security?
  • What are the requirements for the "atamakin" (頭金) or loan down payment? 


Real estate is booming these days in Japan, especially in major cities such as Sapporo.  Extremely low mortgage rates have created a red hot buyers market, but is the country headed towards a bubble?  How easy is it for foreigners to get a loan, and what are the requirements?  Find out that information and more in this episode of the podcast!

Also if you enjoy the Voices in Japan podcast, please leave a rating and review on iTunes.  It only takes a minute and we would really appreciate it.  And of course, please share us with your friends.

Website:

http://podcast.voicesinjapan.com

Follow us and check out our other content:

https://twitter.com/voicesinjapan

https://www.facebook.com/voicesinjapan/

https://www.instagram.com/voicesinjapan/

Get in touch: 

voicesinjapan@gmail.com

Support the show

12 Mar 2023Understanding Akira Kurosawa's High and Low00:56:40

Special guest and friend Danny joins Ben and Matt on the podcast to break down and discuss one of Akira Kurosawa's lesser known but still great movies, High and Low. WARNING: there are spoilers!

Sponsors:

Bearfoot Bar

Located in downtown Sapporo, walking distance from the subway station. There are  variety of Japanese made craft bottled beers. A wide range of regular and unique spirits and basic cocktails also available. Burgers and pub style snacks. With friendly English and Japanese speaking staff.  https://www.facebook.com/bearfootbar
 

The Red House 

Located in the heart of Rusutsu Ski Resort, just cross the main road and it’s behind the Seicomart Convenience store. The restaurant features a mix of Japanese, Asian fusion, and western Style dishes, including shabu-shabu with wagyu beef and Hokkaido wagyu beef steak. Open winter and summer, 12-3pm for lunch, 5-9pm for dinner, with prices ranging from under Yen 1000 to about Yen 5000. https://theredhouse.jp/


 Rusutsu Lodges

Open all year round. Located 5 minutes walk to the main Rusutsu Ski Resort Gondola. There are Japanese, Western, and apartment style rooms with breakfast packages available. There’s a Japanese sento (public bath), two convenience stores less than a minute walk, ski room and tune up tables, plenty of free parking space, and summer BBQ packages available. Check out the website for more information and availability. http://rusutsulodges.com


 Hokkaido Guide

Established over 10 years ago, written by locals for locals and international tourists. The guide contains information on all types of businesses and locations around Hokkaido. There's information regarding all things Hokkaido such as sightseeing, nightlife, events, services, food and restaurants, entertainment, outdoor activities, and more. Currently offered in English and Thai, advertising space available. Check out website for everything you need to know about this beautiful prefecture. https://hokkaidoguide.com


Use our Buzzsprout affiliate link to start your podcast today!
 
Website:

https://www.voicesinjapan.com/
Follow us and check out our other content:

https://youtube.com/@voicesinjapanpodcast

https://twitter.com/voicesinjapan

https://www.facebook.com/voicesinjapan/

https://www.instagram.com/voicesinjapan/

Get in touch: 

voicesinjapan@gmail.com


Podcast:

h


Help support us at:

https://www.patreon.com/voicesinjapan

https://www.buymeacoffee.com/voicesinjapan

Support the show

20 Mar 2023Sushi Shops Strike Back!00:44:02

Ben and Burke catch up on the latest developments in the ongoing saga of sushi terrorists versus "kaiten zushi" (conveyor belt sushi) restaurants in Japan. Arrests have been made, AI cameras have been installed, and the service level has dropped. Ben and Burke also discuss their recent visits to some chain sushi restaurants in Japan and the changes they've noticed, and also discover the most popular sushi dishes of Japanese people!

Sponsors:

Bearfoot Bar

Located in downtown Sapporo, walking distance from the subway station. There are  variety of Japanese made craft bottled beers. A wide range of regular and unique spirits and basic cocktails also available. Burgers and pub style snacks. With friendly English and Japanese speaking staff.  https://www.facebook.com/bearfootbar

The Red House 

Located in the heart of Rusutsu Ski Resort, just cross the main road and it’s behind the Seicomart Convenience store. The restaurant features a mix of Japanese, Asian fusion, and western Style dishes, including shabu-shabu with wagyu beef and Hokkaido wagyu beef steak. Open winter and summer, 12-3pm for lunch, 5-9pm for dinner, with prices ranging from under Yen 1000 to about Yen 5000. https://theredhouse.jp/
 
Rusutsu Lodges

Open all year round. Located 5 minutes walk to the main Rusutsu Ski Resort Gondola. There are Japanese, Western, and apartment style rooms with breakfast packages available. There’s a Japanese sento (public bath), two convenience stores less than a minute walk, ski room and tune up tables, plenty of free parking space, and summer BBQ packages available. Check out the website for more information and availability. http://rusutsulodges.com
 
Hokkaido Guide

Established over 10 years ago, written by locals for locals and international tourists. The guide contains information on all types of businesses and locations around Hokkaido. There's information regarding all things Hokkaido such as sightseeing, nightlife, events, services, food and restaurants, entertainment, outdoor activities, and more. Currently offered in English and Thai, advertising space available. Check out website for everything you need to know about this beautiful prefecture. https://hokkaidoguide.com

Use our Buzzsprout affiliate link to start your podcast today!

Website:

https://www.voicesinjapan.com/
Follow us and check out our other content:

https://youtube.com/@voicesinjapanpodcast

https://twitter.com/voicesinjapan

https://www.facebook.com/voicesinjapan/

https://www.instagram.com/voicesinjapan/

Get in touch: 

voicesinjapan@gmail.com

Help support us at:

https://www.patreon.com/voicesinjapan

https://www.buymeacoffee.com/voicesinjapan

Support the show

28 Mar 2023The Best Ways to Spend Your Free Time in Japan00:50:57

While Matt is still on vacation, Ben and Burke look at the news about flying taxis, a strange new dish from Domino’s Pizza in Japan that is covered with an egg sauce, and Coca-Cola's newest alcoholic drink in Japan, an official Jack and Coke. Then, they dive deep into the most enjoyed hobbies by Japanese people and how those compare with the most popular hobbies for Western people. And who takes their hobbies more seriously, Japanese or Westerners?

Sponsors:

Bearfoot Bar

Located in downtown Sapporo, walking distance from the subway station. There are  variety of Japanese made craft bottled beers. A wide range of regular and unique spirits and basic cocktails also available. Burgers and pub style snacks. With friendly English and Japanese speaking staff.  https://www.facebook.com/bearfootbar

The Red House 

Located in the heart of Rusutsu Ski Resort, just cross the main road and it’s behind the Seicomart Convenience store. The restaurant features a mix of Japanese, Asian fusion, and western Style dishes, including shabu-shabu with wagyu beef and Hokkaido wagyu beef steak. Open winter and summer, 12-3pm for lunch, 5-9pm for dinner, with prices ranging from under Yen 1000 to about Yen 5000. https://theredhouse.jp/
 
Rusutsu Lodges

Open all year round. Located 5 minutes walk to the main Rusutsu Ski Resort Gondola. There are Japanese, Western, and apartment style rooms with breakfast packages available. There’s a Japanese sento (public bath), two convenience stores less than a minute walk, ski room and tune up tables, plenty of free parking space, and summer BBQ packages available. Check out the website for more information and availability. http://rusutsulodges.com
 
Hokkaido Guide

Established over 10 years ago, written by locals for locals and international tourists. The guide contains information on all types of businesses and locations around Hokkaido. There's information regarding all things Hokkaido such as sightseeing, nightlife, events, services, food and restaurants, entertainment, outdoor activities, and more. Currently offered in English and Thai, advertising space available. Check out website for everything you need to know about this beautiful prefecture. https://hokkaidoguide.com

Use our Buzzsprout affiliate link to start your podcast today!

Website:

https://www.voicesinjapan.com/
Follow us and check out our other content:

https://youtube.com/@voicesinjapanpodcast

https://twitter.com/voicesinjapan

https://www.facebook.com/voicesinjapan/

https://www.instagram.com/voicesinjapan/

Get in touch: 

voicesinjapan@gmail.com

Help support us at:

https://www.patreon.com/voicesinjapan

https://www.buymeacoffee.com/voicesinjapan

Support the show

07 Apr 2023Cherry Blossom Madness!00:41:38

With Ben away on vacation, Matt takes the opportunity to educate Burke on the top-10 cherry blossom viewing spots in Japan because, well, the activity of cherry blossom viewing rules the news at this time of year.  Also in the news, very loud and impolite political campaigning for current elections, and also a new (and almost strict) law about riding bicycles in Japan.

Sponsors:

Bearfoot Bar

Located in downtown Sapporo, walking distance from the subway station. There are  variety of Japanese made craft bottled beers. A wide range of regular and unique spirits and basic cocktails also available. Burgers and pub style snacks. With friendly English and Japanese speaking staff.  https://www.facebook.com/bearfootbar

The Red House 

Located in the heart of Rusutsu Ski Resort, just cross the main road and it’s behind the Seicomart Convenience store. The restaurant features a mix of Japanese, Asian fusion, and western Style dishes, including shabu-shabu with wagyu beef and Hokkaido wagyu beef steak. Open winter and summer, 12-3pm for lunch, 5-9pm for dinner, with prices ranging from under Yen 1000 to about Yen 5000. https://theredhouse.jp/
 
Rusutsu Lodges

Open all year round. Located 5 minutes walk to the main Rusutsu Ski Resort Gondola. There are Japanese, Western, and apartment style rooms with breakfast packages available. There’s a Japanese sento (public bath), two convenience stores less than a minute walk, ski room and tune up tables, plenty of free parking space, and summer BBQ packages available. Check out the website for more information and availability. http://rusutsulodges.com
 
Hokkaido Guide

Established over 10 years ago, written by locals for locals and international tourists. The guide contains information on all types of businesses and locations around Hokkaido. There's information regarding all things Hokkaido such as sightseeing, nightlife, events, services, food and restaurants, entertainment, outdoor activities, and more. Currently offered in English and Thai, advertising space available. Check out website for everything you need to know about this beautiful prefecture. https://hokkaidoguide.com

Use our Buzzsprout affiliate link to start your podcast today!

Website:
https://www.voicesinjapan.com/

Follow us and check out our other content:
https://youtube.com/@voicesinjapanpodcast
https://twitter.com/voicesinjapan
https://www.facebook.com/voicesinjapan/
https://www.instagram.com/voicesinjapan/

Get in touch:
voicesinjapan@gmail.com

Help support us at:
https://www.patreon.com/voicesinjapan
https://www.buymeacoffee.com/voicesinjapan

Support the show

17 Apr 20237 Ways Japanese and Westerners are Complete Opposites00:50:53

It's been a while, but Matt, Ben, and Burke are all back recording together on this episode! After some omiyage (souvenir) gift giving from Matt's trip to Australia, they look at seven ways that Japanese and Westerners are complete opposites as described in an article from Live Japan.

Sponsors:

Bearfoot Bar

Located in downtown Sapporo, walking distance from the subway station. There are  variety of Japanese made craft bottled beers. A wide range of regular and unique spirits and basic cocktails also available. Burgers and pub style snacks. With friendly English and Japanese speaking staff.  https://www.facebook.com/bearfootbar

The Red House 

Located in the heart of Rusutsu Ski Resort, just cross the main road and it’s behind the Seicomart Convenience store. The restaurant features a mix of Japanese, Asian fusion, and western Style dishes, including shabu-shabu with wagyu beef and Hokkaido wagyu beef steak. Open winter and summer, 12-3pm for lunch, 5-9pm for dinner, with prices ranging from under Yen 1000 to about Yen 5000. https://theredhouse.jp/
 
Rusutsu Lodges

Open all year round. Located 5 minutes walk to the main Rusutsu Ski Resort Gondola. There are Japanese, Western, and apartment style rooms with breakfast packages available. There’s a Japanese sento (public bath), two convenience stores less than a minute walk, ski room and tune up tables, plenty of free parking space, and summer BBQ packages available. Check out the website for more information and availability. http://rusutsulodges.com
 
Hokkaido Guide

Established over 10 years ago, written by locals for locals and international tourists. The guide contains information on all types of businesses and locations around Hokkaido. There's information regarding all things Hokkaido such as sightseeing, nightlife, events, services, food and restaurants, entertainment, outdoor activities, and more. Currently offered in English and Thai, advertising space available. Check out website for everything you need to know about this beautiful prefecture. https://hokkaidoguide.com

Use our Buzzsprout affiliate link to start your podcast today!

Website:
https://www.voicesinjapan.com/

Follow us and check out our other content:
https://youtube.com/@voicesinjapanpodcast
https://twitter.com/voicesinjapan
https://www.facebook.com/voicesinjapan/
https://www.instagram.com/voicesinjapan/

Get in touch:
voicesinjapan@gmail.com

Help support us at:
https://www.patreon.com/voicesinjapan
https://www.buymeacoffee.com/voicesinjapan

Support the show

30 Apr 2023Is Japan Late to the AI Game?00:43:26

With the fast development of ChatGPT-4 and AI, Ben, Burke, and Matt discuss the issues that Japan face. Other news talked about in today's include a bar maid being fired for doing something weird to a drink, and the bungled assassination "attempt" of Japan's Prime Minster Kishida. Enjoy!

Sponsors:

Bearfoot Bar

Located in downtown Sapporo, walking distance from the subway station. There are  variety of Japanese made craft bottled beers. A wide range of regular and unique spirits and basic cocktails also available. Burgers and pub style snacks. With friendly English and Japanese speaking staff.  https://www.facebook.com/bearfootbar
 
The Red House 

Located in the heart of Rusutsu Ski Resort, just cross the main road and it’s behind the Seicomart Convenience store. The restaurant features a mix of Japanese, Asian fusion, and western Style dishes, including shabu-shabu with wagyu beef and Hokkaido wagyu beef steak. Open winter and summer, 12-3pm for lunch, 5-9pm for dinner, with prices ranging from under Yen 1000 to about Yen 5000. https://theredhouse.jp/

Rusutsu Lodges

Open all year round. Located 5 minutes walk to the main Rusutsu Ski Resort Gondola. There are Japanese, Western, and apartment style rooms with breakfast packages available. There’s a Japanese sento (public bath), two convenience stores less than a minute walk, ski room and tune up tables, plenty of free parking space, and summer BBQ packages available. Check out the website for more information and availability. http://rusutsulodges.com


Hokkaido Guide

Established over 10 years ago, written by locals for locals and international tourists. The guide contains information on all types of businesses and locations around Hokkaido. There's information regarding all things Hokkaido such as sightseeing, nightlife, events, services, food and restaurants, entertainment, outdoor activities, and more. Currently offered in English and Thai, advertising space available. Check out website for everything you need to know about this beautiful prefecture. https://hokkaidoguide.com


Use our Buzzsprout affiliate link to start your podcast today!
 
Website:

https://www.voicesinjapan.com/
Follow us and check out our other content:

https://youtube.com/@voicesinjapanpodcast

https://twitter.com/voicesinjapan

https://www.facebook.com/voicesinjapan/

https://www.instagram.com/voicesinjapan/

Get in touch: 

voicesinjapan@gmail.com

Support the show

04 May 2023Watch out for These Deadly Animals in Japan00:54:20

With Burke away on holiday (again!), Ben and Matt hold down the fort and discuss the most dangerous animals living in Japan that visitors (and residents) should be wary of when travelling around Japan. Stay safe!

Sponsors:

Bearfoot Bar

Located in downtown Sapporo, walking distance from the subway station. There are  variety of Japanese made craft bottled beers. A wide range of regular and unique spirits and basic cocktails also available. Burgers and pub style snacks. With friendly English and Japanese speaking staff.  https://www.facebook.com/bearfootbar
 

The Red House 

Located in the heart of Rusutsu Ski Resort, just cross the main road and it’s behind the Seicomart Convenience store. The restaurant features a mix of Japanese, Asian fusion, and western Style dishes, including shabu-shabu with wagyu beef and Hokkaido wagyu beef steak. Open winter and summer, 12-3pm for lunch, 5-9pm for dinner, with prices ranging from under Yen 1000 to about Yen 5000. https://theredhouse.jp/


 Rusutsu Lodges

Open all year round. Located 5 minutes walk to the main Rusutsu Ski Resort Gondola. There are Japanese, Western, and apartment style rooms with breakfast packages available. There’s a Japanese sento (public bath), two convenience stores less than a minute walk, ski room and tune up tables, plenty of free parking space, and summer BBQ packages available. Check out the website for more information and availability. http://rusutsulodges.com


 Hokkaido Guide

Established over 10 years ago, written by locals for locals and international tourists. The guide contains information on all types of businesses and locations around Hokkaido. There's information regarding all things Hokkaido such as sightseeing, nightlife, events, services, food and restaurants, entertainment, outdoor activities, and more. Currently offered in English and Thai, advertising space available. Check out website for everything you need to know about this beautiful prefecture. https://hokkaidoguide.com


Use our Buzzsprout affiliate link to start your podcast today!
 
Website:

https://www.voicesinjapan.com/
Follow us and check out our other content:

https://youtube.com/@voicesinjapanpodcast

https://twitter.com/voicesinjapan

https://www.facebook.com/voicesinjapan/

https://www.instagram.com/voicesinjapan/

Get in touch: 

voicesinjapan@gmail.com

Support the show

10 May 2023Traveling in Kyushu and Working as a Male Host00:44:06

This episode provides an extensive look at Burke's recent family trip to Fukuoka (a large metropolitan city in Kyushu) and Beppu (a top hot spring destination in Japan), and Ben explains details about working at a male host club (bars and nightclubs that provide male companionship and entertainment to women in exchange for money.)

Sponsors:

Bearfoot Bar

Located in downtown Sapporo, walking distance from the subway station. There are  variety of Japanese made craft bottled beers. A wide range of regular and unique spirits and basic cocktails also available. Burgers and pub style snacks. With friendly English and Japanese speaking staff.  https://www.facebook.com/bearfootbar

The Red House 

Located in the heart of Rusutsu Ski Resort, just cross the main road and it’s behind the Seicomart Convenience store. The restaurant features a mix of Japanese, Asian fusion, and western Style dishes, including shabu-shabu with wagyu beef and Hokkaido wagyu beef steak. Open winter and summer, 12-3pm for lunch, 5-9pm for dinner, with prices ranging from under Yen 1000 to about Yen 5000. https://theredhouse.jp/
 
Rusutsu Lodges

Open all year round. Located 5 minutes walk to the main Rusutsu Ski Resort Gondola. There are Japanese, Western, and apartment style rooms with breakfast packages available. There’s a Japanese sento (public bath), two convenience stores less than a minute walk, ski room and tune up tables, plenty of free parking space, and summer BBQ packages available. Check out the website for more information and availability. http://rusutsulodges.com
 
Hokkaido Guide

Established over 10 years ago, written by locals for locals and international tourists. The guide contains information on all types of businesses and locations around Hokkaido. There's information regarding all things Hokkaido such as sightseeing, nightlife, events, services, food and restaurants, entertainment, outdoor activities, and more. Currently offered in English and Thai, advertising space available. Check out website for everything you need to know about this beautiful prefecture. https://hokkaidoguide.com

Use our Buzzsprout affiliate link to start your podcast today!

Website:
https://www.voicesinjapan.com/

Follow us and check out our other content:
https://youtube.com/@voicesinjapanpodcast
https://twitter.com/voicesinjapan
https://www.facebook.com/voicesinjapan/
https://www.instagram.com/voicesinjapan/

Get in touch:
voicesinjapan@gmail.com

Help support us at:
https://www.patreon.com/voicesinjapan
https://www.buymeacoffee.com/voicesinjapan

Support the show

16 May 2023Things Most People don't know about the Japanese Emperor00:46:41

Ben and Matt talk about the new COVID rules in Japan, promotional ideas to grow bullet train (Shinkansen) users, and some very interesting things about the Japanese Emperor that most people don’t know.

Sponsors:

Bearfoot Bar

Located in downtown Sapporo, walking distance from the subway station. There are  variety of Japanese made craft bottled beers. A wide range of regular and unique spirits and basic cocktails also available. Burgers and pub style snacks. With friendly English and Japanese speaking staff.  https://www.facebook.com/bearfootbar
 

The Red House 

Located in the heart of Rusutsu Ski Resort, just cross the main road and it’s behind the Seicomart Convenience store. The restaurant features a mix of Japanese, Asian fusion, and western Style dishes, including shabu-shabu with wagyu beef and Hokkaido wagyu beef steak. Open winter and summer, 12-3pm for lunch, 5-9pm for dinner, with prices ranging from under Yen 1000 to about Yen 5000. https://theredhouse.jp/


 Rusutsu Lodges

Open all year round. Located 5 minutes walk to the main Rusutsu Ski Resort Gondola. There are Japanese, Western, and apartment style rooms with breakfast packages available. There’s a Japanese sento (public bath), two convenience stores less than a minute walk, ski room and tune up tables, plenty of free parking space, and summer BBQ packages available. Check out the website for more information and availability. http://rusutsulodges.com


 Hokkaido Guide

Established over 10 years ago, written by locals for locals and international tourists. The guide contains information on all types of businesses and locations around Hokkaido. There's information regarding all things Hokkaido such as sightseeing, nightlife, events, services, food and restaurants, entertainment, outdoor activities, and more. Currently offered in English and Thai, advertising space available. Check out website for everything you need to know about this beautiful prefecture. https://hokkaidoguide.com


Use our Buzzsprout affiliate link to start your podcast today!
 
Website:

https://www.voicesinjapan.com/
Follow us and check out our other content:

https://youtube.com/@voicesinjapanpodcast

https://twitter.com/voicesinjapan

https://www.facebook.com/voicesinjapan/

https://www.instagram.com/voicesinjapan/

Get in touch: 

voicesinjapan@gmail.com

Support the show

26 May 2023Can AI Help You Prepare for Life in Japan?00:48:37

Ben, Matt, and Burke test the responses from ChatGPT about preparing for life in Japan, including visa requirements and cultural differences that foreigners will have the most trouble adjusting to after moving to the country. Listen now to find out if the responses provide reliable information!

Sponsors:

Bearfoot Bar

Located in downtown Sapporo, walking distance from the subway station. There are  variety of Japanese made craft bottled beers. A wide range of regular and unique spirits and basic cocktails also available. Burgers and pub style snacks. With friendly English and Japanese speaking staff.  https://www.facebook.com/bearfootbar

The Red House 

Located in the heart of Rusutsu Ski Resort, just cross the main road and it’s behind the Seicomart Convenience store. The restaurant features a mix of Japanese, Asian fusion, and western Style dishes, including shabu-shabu with wagyu beef and Hokkaido wagyu beef steak. Open winter and summer, 12-3pm for lunch, 5-9pm for dinner, with prices ranging from under Yen 1000 to about Yen 5000. https://theredhouse.jp/
 
Rusutsu Lodges

Open all year round. Located 5 minutes walk to the main Rusutsu Ski Resort Gondola. There are Japanese, Western, and apartment style rooms with breakfast packages available. There’s a Japanese sento (public bath), two convenience stores less than a minute walk, ski room and tune up tables, plenty of free parking space, and summer BBQ packages available. Check out the website for more information and availability. http://rusutsulodges.com
 
Hokkaido Guide

Established over 10 years ago, written by locals for locals and international tourists. The guide contains information on all types of businesses and locations around Hokkaido. There's information regarding all things Hokkaido such as sightseeing, nightlife, events, services, food and restaurants, entertainment, outdoor activities, and more. Currently offered in English and Thai, advertising space available. Check out website for everything you need to know about this beautiful prefecture. https://hokkaidoguide.com

Use our Buzzsprout affiliate link to start your podcast today!

Website:
https://www.voicesinjapan.com/

Follow us and check out our other content:
https://youtube.com/@voicesinjapanpodcast
https://twitter.com/voicesinjapan
https://www.facebook.com/voicesinjapan/
https://www.instagram.com/voicesinjapan/

Get in touch:
voicesinjapan@gmail.com

Help support us at:
https://www.patreon.com/voicesinjapan
https://www.buymeacoffee.com/voicesinjapan

Support the show

31 May 2023Insider Tips for Securing Accommodation in Japan00:45:22

Ben Burke, and Matt embark on an exciting journey through the maze of renting accommodation in Japan.  Join us as we uncover insider tips, share personal experiences, and provide valuable advice on navigating the unique intricacies of finding a place to live. This episode will equip you with the knowledge and insights to find your perfect home away from home in Japan. 

Sponsors:

Bearfoot Bar

Located in downtown Sapporo, walking distance from the subway station. There are  variety of Japanese made craft bottled beers. A wide range of regular and unique spirits and basic cocktails also available. Burgers and pub style snacks. With friendly English and Japanese speaking staff.  https://www.facebook.com/bearfootbar
 

The Red House 

Located in the heart of Rusutsu Ski Resort, just cross the main road and it’s behind the Seicomart Convenience store. The restaurant features a mix of Japanese, Asian fusion, and western Style dishes, including shabu-shabu with wagyu beef and Hokkaido wagyu beef steak. Open winter and summer, 12-3pm for lunch, 5-9pm for dinner, with prices ranging from under Yen 1000 to about Yen 5000. https://theredhouse.jp/


 Rusutsu Lodges

Open all year round. Located 5 minutes walk to the main Rusutsu Ski Resort Gondola. There are Japanese, Western, and apartment style rooms with breakfast packages available. There’s a Japanese sento (public bath), two convenience stores less than a minute walk, ski room and tune up tables, plenty of free parking space, and summer BBQ packages available. Check out the website for more information and availability. http://rusutsulodges.com


 Hokkaido Guide

Established over 10 years ago, written by locals for locals and international tourists. The guide contains information on all types of businesses and locations around Hokkaido. There's information regarding all things Hokkaido such as sightseeing, nightlife, events, services, food and restaurants, entertainment, outdoor activities, and more. Currently offered in English and Thai, advertising space available. Check out website for everything you need to know about this beautiful prefecture. https://hokkaidoguide.com


Use our Buzzsprout affiliate link to start your podcast today!
 
Website:

https://www.voicesinjapan.com/
Follow us and check out our other content:

https://youtube.com/@voicesinjapanpodcast

https://twitter.com/voicesinjapan

https://www.facebook.com/voicesinjapan/

https://www.instagram.com/voicesinjapan/

Get in touch: 

voicesinjapan@gmail.com

Support the show

19 Jun 2019Hired as a Teacher, Living like a Rockstar!00:36:12

Japan imports a variety of essentials for modern living, including native English speakers to teach them the language. Some actually arrive into Narita or Haneda Airport with the proper credentials for the job, while others may only be searching for a unique adventure in a foreign land for one or two years.  What are the realities that they all end up facing on the job, and what drew Jon and our podcast hosts into staying in Japan, specifically Sapporo, for much longer than they originally intended? Listen now for a very entertaining take on the notorious career of English teaching in Japan!

Support the podcast by making a donation.

Conversation highlights:

  • Ben encounters a guy bedazzled by how long some people stay in Japan
  • The Yosakoi Soran Festival that takes place in June in Sapporo
  • The addiction to the Hokkaido lifestyle
  • Living overseas in a country like Japan is a great resume booster
  • What was Jon’s original intention for coming to Japan?
  • Why is there a stigma attached to teaching English?
  • What are the basic requirements for teaching English in Japan?
  • Ben and Jon disagree on whether the majority of English teachers enjoy their job
  • The very gratifying lifestyle that teaching English allows
  • The frustrations that experienced teachers may face when teaching English in Japan
  • Which job feels more meaningful: teaching in conversation schools or public schools?
  • Burke compares his experience on the JET (Japan Exchange and Teaching) Program to that of teaching in a large conversation school
  • Why do schools in Japan prefer to hire teachers with little experience?
  • Comparing the large conversation schools during the English boom to today
  • The negative effect of teachers with little commitment to the Job
  • A famous comic strip in Japan, Charisma Man, which humorously captures the celebrity status that foreign men often enjoy in Japan
  • How did Jon become an English teacher in the US?
  • How did Jon find teaching in the very same high school he attended as a teenager?
  • How do the attitudes of students in the US compare with their Japanese counterparts?
  • Ben explains why he enjoys being a teacher, and also the best level of students to teach
  • A video filmed by students in Japan that illustrates very well the level of respect that teachers in Japan command in their schools
  • Jon tells his own story of having to discipline a model student to ensure other students understood what type of behavior is acceptable
  • The best way to avoid the risk of losing work as a university teacher
  • Ben explains his professional background, which is completely unrelated to education 
  • The best large conversation school to work for, and some of the bizarre training programs at other conversations schools


Even though Japanese teachers definitely have struggles at work, they seem to have a much better situation than teachers overseas - more respect, better pay, and tame students.  However, if you are looking for the best avenue to enjoy a cruisy lifestyle, few careers can beat teaching English in Japan as a foreigner.  To learn about our podcasters’ and Jon’s experience, the good and the bad, and also some advice they have for people considering a career as an English teacher in Japan, listen now!

Website:

http://podcast.voicesinjapan.com

Follow us and check out our other content:

https://twitter.com/voicesinjapan

https://www.facebook.com/voicesinjapan/

Support the show

08 Jun 2023Are These 9 Customs Unique to Japan?00:38:05

Ben, Matt, and Burke discuss 9 sustainable habits from this article that are practiced by the Japanese. These habits include minimalism, appreciating imperfections, upcycling, recycling, energy conservation, and more. The Japanese have embraced these habits as a way to minimize their environmental impact and promote a more sustainable lifestyle.

Sponsors:

Bearfoot Bar

Located in downtown Sapporo, walking distance from the subway station. There are  variety of Japanese made craft bottled beers. A wide range of regular and unique spirits and basic cocktails also available. Burgers and pub style snacks. With friendly English and Japanese speaking staff.  https://www.facebook.com/bearfootbar

The Red House 

Located in the heart of Rusutsu Ski Resort, just cross the main road and it’s behind the Seicomart Convenience store. The restaurant features a mix of Japanese, Asian fusion, and western Style dishes, including shabu-shabu with wagyu beef and Hokkaido wagyu beef steak. Open winter and summer, 12-3pm for lunch, 5-9pm for dinner, with prices ranging from under Yen 1000 to about Yen 5000. https://theredhouse.jp/
 
Rusutsu Lodges

Open all year round. Located 5 minutes walk to the main Rusutsu Ski Resort Gondola. There are Japanese, Western, and apartment style rooms with breakfast packages available. There’s a Japanese sento (public bath), two convenience stores less than a minute walk, ski room and tune up tables, plenty of free parking space, and summer BBQ packages available. Check out the website for more information and availability. http://rusutsulodges.com
 
Hokkaido Guide

Established over 10 years ago, written by locals for locals and international tourists. The guide contains information on all types of businesses and locations around Hokkaido. There's information regarding all things Hokkaido such as sightseeing, nightlife, events, services, food and restaurants, entertainment, outdoor activities, and more. Currently offered in English and Thai, advertising space available. Check out website for everything you need to know about this beautiful prefecture. https://hokkaidoguide.com

Use our Buzzsprout affiliate link to start your podcast today!

Website:
https://www.voicesinjapan.com/

Follow us and check out our other content:
https://youtube.com/@voicesinjapanpodcast
https://twitter.com/voicesinjapan
https://www.facebook.com/voicesinjapan/
https://www.instagram.com/voicesinjapan/

Get in touch:
voicesinjapan@gmail.com

Help support us at:
https://www.patreon.com/voicesinjapan
https://www.buymeacoffee.com/voicesinjapan

Support the show

19 Jun 2023Unraveling Japan’s Peculiar Charms00:50:19

Ben, Burke and Matt delve into the enigmatic oddities that make Japan truly unique.

Prepare to be amazed as we uncover the remarkable and unconventional aspects that set this country apart. From love hotels to outlandish pizza toppings, Japan offers a world unlike any other. We talk about mesmerizing traditions, astonishing inventions, and immerse ourselves in unforgettable experiences that defy expectations. Japan never ceases to surprise and delight. Enjoy the show!

Sponsors:

Bearfoot Bar

Located in downtown Sapporo, walking distance from the subway station. There are  variety of Japanese made craft bottled beers. A wide range of regular and unique spirits and basic cocktails also available. Burgers and pub style snacks. With friendly English and Japanese speaking staff.  https://www.facebook.com/bearfootbar
 

Rusutsu Lodges

Open all year round. Located 5 minutes walk to the main Rusutsu Ski Resort Gondola. There are Japanese, Western, and apartment style rooms with breakfast packages available. There’s a Japanese sento (public bath), two convenience stores less than a minute walk, ski room and tune up tables, plenty of free parking space, and summer BBQ packages available. Check out the website for more information and availability. http://rusutsulodges.com


 Hokkaido Guide

Established over 10 years ago, written by locals for locals and international tourists. The guide contains information on all types of businesses and locations around Hokkaido. There's information regarding all things Hokkaido such as sightseeing, nightlife, events, services, food and restaurants, entertainment, outdoor activities, and more. Currently offered in English and Thai, advertising space available. Check out website for everything you need to know about this beautiful prefecture. https://hokkaidoguide.com


Use our Buzzsprout affiliate link to start your podcast today!
 
Website:

https://www.voicesinjapan.com/
Follow us and check out our other content:

https://youtube.com/@voicesinjapanpodcast

https://twitter.com/voicesinjapan

https://www.facebook.com/voicesinjapan/

https://www.instagram.com/voicesinjapan/

Get in touch: 

voicesinjapan@gmail.com


Support the show

26 Jun 2023Top 10 Challenges for Tourists in Japan00:54:05


Japan is one of the most popular destinations in the world for tourists. However, foreign travelers face a number of challenges while visiting according to a survey conducted by the Japanese travel website Good Luck Trip. Listen now to find out the best solutions to the top 10 inconveniences you will face if you visit Japan!

Recommended website for registering for mobile payment apps: The Best Payment Apps for Foreigners in Japan

Voices in Japan sponsors:

Bearfoot Bar

Located in downtown Sapporo, walking distance from the subway station. There are  variety of Japanese made craft bottled beers. A wide range of regular and unique spirits and basic cocktails also available. Burgers and pub style snacks. With friendly English and Japanese speaking staff.  https://www.facebook.com/bearfootbar

The Red House 

Located in the heart of Rusutsu Ski Resort, just cross the main road and it’s behind the Seicomart Convenience store. The restaurant features a mix of Japanese, Asian fusion, and western Style dishes, including shabu-shabu with wagyu beef and Hokkaido wagyu beef steak. Open winter and summer, 12-3pm for lunch, 5-9pm for dinner, with prices ranging from under Yen 1000 to about Yen 5000. https://theredhouse.jp/
 
Rusutsu Lodges

Open all year round. Located 5 minutes walk to the main Rusutsu Ski Resort Gondola. There are Japanese, Western, and apartment style rooms with breakfast packages available. There’s a Japanese sento (public bath), two convenience stores less than a minute walk, ski room and tune up tables, plenty of free parking space, and summer BBQ packages available. Check out the website for more information and availability. http://rusutsulodges.com
 
Hokkaido Guide

Established over 10 years ago, written by locals for locals and international tourists. The guide contains information on all types of businesses and locations around Hokkaido. There's information regarding all things Hokkaido such as sightseeing, nightlife, events, services, food and restaurants, entertainment, outdoor activities, and more. Currently offered in English and Thai, advertising space available. Check out website for everything you need to know about this beautiful prefecture. https://hokkaidoguide.com

Use our Buzzsprout affiliate link to start your podcast today!

Website:
https://www.voicesinjapan.com/

Follow us and check out our other content:
https://youtube.com/@voicesinjapanpodcast
https://twitter.com/voicesinjapan
https://www.facebook.com/voicesinjapan/
https://www.instagram.com/voicesinjapan/

Get in touch:
voicesinjapan@gmail.com

Help support us at:
https://www.patreon.com/voicesinjapan
https://www.buymeacoffee.com/voicesinjapan

Support the show

05 Jul 2023Shocking Crime Occurs in Sapporo!00:49:21

Ben, Matt, and Burke discuss a shocking crime that recently occurred in Sapporo, and the culprit is still on the loose! They also look at the reasons for why they have chosen to stay in Japan long-term, discuss Japan's decision to start releasing the treated water at the Fukushima nuclear power plant, the legend of Hachiko the dog, and the laws regarding public photography in Japan.

Voices in Japan sponsors:

Bearfoot Bar

Located in downtown Sapporo, walking distance from the subway station. There are  variety of Japanese made craft bottled beers. A wide range of regular and unique spirits and basic cocktails also available. Burgers and pub style snacks. With friendly English and Japanese speaking staff.  https://www.facebook.com/bearfootbar

The Red House 

Located in the heart of Rusutsu Ski Resort, just cross the main road and it’s behind the Seicomart Convenience store. The restaurant features a mix of Japanese, Asian fusion, and western Style dishes, including shabu-shabu with wagyu beef and Hokkaido wagyu beef steak. Open winter and summer, 12-3pm for lunch, 5-9pm for dinner, with prices ranging from under Yen 1000 to about Yen 5000. https://theredhouse.jp/
 
Rusutsu Lodges

Open all year round. Located 5 minutes walk to the main Rusutsu Ski Resort Gondola. There are Japanese, Western, and apartment style rooms with breakfast packages available. There’s a Japanese sento (public bath), two convenience stores less than a minute walk, ski room and tune up tables, plenty of free parking space, and summer BBQ packages available. Check out the website for more information and availability. http://rusutsulodges.com
 
Hokkaido Guide

Established over 10 years ago, written by locals for locals and international tourists. The guide contains information on all types of businesses and locations around Hokkaido. There's information regarding all things Hokkaido such as sightseeing, nightlife, events, services, food and restaurants, entertainment, outdoor activities, and more. Currently offered in English and Thai, advertising space available. Check out website for everything you need to know about this beautiful prefecture. https://hokkaidoguide.com

Use our Buzzsprout affiliate link to start your podcast today!

Website:
https://www.voicesinjapan.com/

Follow us and check out our other content:
https://youtube.com/@voicesinjapanpodcast
https://twitter.com/voicesinjapan
https://www.facebook.com/voicesinjapan/
https://www.instagram.com/voicesinjapan/

Get in touch:
voicesinjapan@gmail.com

Help support us at:
https://www.patreon.com/voicesinjapan
https://www.buymeacoffee.com/voicesinjapan

Support the show

13 Jul 20239 Incredibly Strange Food Combinations!00:54:18

Ben and Burke explore the fascinating world of Japanese cuisine by taking a close look at 9 bizarre food combinations, including wasabi beer and unagi (eel) cola. They also give an update on the massive police hunt for the culprit of a shocking and gruesome Sapporo love hotel murder, discuss the defacing of a 1,200-year-old temple in Nara by a 19-year old Canadian tourist, a clothing rental service being offered by Japan Airlines for travelers coming to Japan, the heavy rains and flooding that has been devastating southern Japan, and much more.

Voices in Japan sponsors:

Bearfoot Bar

Located in downtown Sapporo, walking distance from the subway station. There are  variety of Japanese made craft bottled beers. A wide range of regular and unique spirits and basic cocktails also available. Burgers and pub style snacks. With friendly English and Japanese speaking staff.  https://www.facebook.com/bearfootbar

The Red House 

Located in the heart of Rusutsu Ski Resort, just cross the main road and it’s behind the Seicomart Convenience store. The restaurant features a mix of Japanese, Asian fusion, and western Style dishes, including shabu-shabu with wagyu beef and Hokkaido wagyu beef steak. Open winter and summer, 12-3pm for lunch, 5-9pm for dinner, with prices ranging from under Yen 1000 to about Yen 5000. https://theredhouse.jp/
 
Rusutsu Lodges

Open all year round. Located 5 minutes walk to the main Rusutsu Ski Resort Gondola. There are Japanese, Western, and apartment style rooms with breakfast packages available. There’s a Japanese sento (public bath), two convenience stores less than a minute walk, ski room and tune up tables, plenty of free parking space, and summer BBQ packages available. Check out the website for more information and availability. http://rusutsulodges.com
 
Hokkaido Guide

Established over 10 years ago, written by locals for locals and international tourists. The guide contains information on all types of businesses and locations around Hokkaido. There's information regarding all things Hokkaido such as sightseeing, nightlife, events, services, food and restaurants, entertainment, outdoor activities, and more. Currently offered in English and Thai, advertising space available. Check out website for everything you need to know about this beautiful prefecture. https://hokkaidoguide.com

Use our Buzzsprout affiliate link to start your podcast today!

Website:
https://www.voicesinjapan.com/

Follow us and check out our other content:
https://youtube.com/@voicesinjapanpodcast
https://twitter.com/voicesinjapan
https://www.facebook.com/voicesinjapan/
https://www.instagram.com/voicesinjapan/

Get in touch:
voicesinjapan@gmail.com

Help support us at:
https://www.patreon.com/voicesinjapan
https://www.buymeacoffee.com/voicesinjapan

Support the show

23 Jul 202310 Hidden Gems to Visit in Japan00:46:20

In this episode, we venture beyond the well-trodden paths to reveal the quirky, artistic, and awe-inspiring side of Japan

Join us for an episode that celebrates Japan's boundless creativity, showcasing the Unko Museum's humorous charm, the natural marvel of the Blue Pond, the awe-inspiring miniatures at Small Worlds Tokyo, and much more.

Check out this link to see some of the hilarious commercials featuring famous Hollywood stars that were mentioned in Burke’s mini quiz at the end of the episode. 

Sponsors:

Bearfoot Bar

Located in downtown Sapporo, walking distance from the subway station. There are  variety of Japanese made craft bottled beers. A wide range of regular and unique spirits and basic cocktails also available. Burgers and pub style snacks. With friendly English and Japanese speaking staff.  https://www.facebook.com/bearfootbar
 

The Red House 

Located in the heart of Rusutsu Ski Resort, just cross the main road and it’s behind the Seicomart Convenience store. The restaurant features a mix of Japanese, Asian fusion, and western Style dishes, including shabu-shabu with wagyu beef and Hokkaido wagyu beef steak. Open winter and summer, 12-3pm for lunch, 5-9pm for dinner, with prices ranging from under Yen 1000 to about Yen 5000. https://theredhouse.jp/


 Rusutsu Lodges

Open all year round. Located 5 minutes walk to the main Rusutsu Ski Resort Gondola. There are Japanese, Western, and apartment style rooms with breakfast packages available. There’s a Japanese sento (public bath), two convenience stores less than a minute walk, ski room and tune up tables, plenty of free parking space, and summer BBQ packages available. Check out the website for more information and availability. http://rusutsulodges.com


 Hokkaido Guide

Established over 10 years ago, written by locals for locals and international tourists. The guide contains information on all types of businesses and locations around Hokkaido. There's information regarding all things Hokkaido such as sightseeing, nightlife, events, services, food and restaurants, entertainment, outdoor activities, and more. Currently offered in English and Thai, advertising space available. Check out website for everything you need to know about this beautiful prefecture. https://hokkaidoguide.com


Use our Buzzsprout affiliate link to start your podcast today!
 
Website:

https://www.voicesinjapan.com/
Follow us and check out our other content:

https://youtube.com/@voicesinjapanpodcast

https://twitter.com/voicesinjapan

https://www.facebook.com/voicesinjapan/

https://www.instagram.com/voicesinjapan/

Get in touch: 

voicesinjapan@gmail.com

Help support us at:

https://www.patreon.com/voicesinjapan

https://www.buymeacoffee.com/voicesinjapan

Support the show

01 Aug 2023Our Favorite Things About Japan!00:39:44

This is the 200th episode of the podcast! Ben, Matt, and Burke celebrated by recording at the Beer Garden in Odori Park, which is in the middle of Sapporo City, along with a couple of friends who came to show their support. The group discussed their favorite aspects of living in Japan, including festivals, the safety and low crime rate, tipping culture, Japanese toilets, the people, and much more! There are some quiz questions and a lot of chugging delicious beverages under the blistering summer sun!

Voices in Japan sponsors:

MaruMori
This site has everything you need to learn Japanese! It’s an all-in-one, guided, gamified Japanese learning experience with the aim to take you all the way from absolute beginner to language mastery, and the best part is you can start anywhere! 
https://marumori.io/register?rcode=vij

Bearfoot Bar
Located in downtown Sapporo, walking distance from the subway station. There are  variety of Japanese made craft bottled beers. A wide range of regular and unique spirits and basic cocktails also available. Burgers and pub style snacks. With friendly English and Japanese speaking staff.  https://www.facebook.com/bearfootbar

The Red House
Located in the heart of Rusutsu Ski Resort, just cross the main road and it’s behind the Seicomart Convenience store. The restaurant features a mix of Japanese, Asian fusion, and western Style dishes, including shabu-shabu with wagyu beef and Hokkaido wagyu beef steak. Open winter and summer, 12-3pm for lunch, 5-9pm for dinner, with prices ranging from under Yen 1000 to about Yen 5000. https://theredhouse.jp/

Rusutsu Lodges
Open all year round. Located 5 minutes walk to the main Rusutsu Ski Resort Gondola. There are Japanese, Western, and apartment style rooms with breakfast packages available. There’s a Japanese sento (public bath), two convenience stores less than a minute walk, ski room and tune up tables, plenty of free parking space, and summer BBQ packages available. Check out the website for more information and availability. http://rusutsulodges.com

Hokkaido Guide
Established over 10 years ago, written by locals for locals and international tourists. The guide contains information on all types of businesses and locations around Hokkaido. There's information regarding all things Hokkaido such as sightseeing, nightlife, events, services, food and restaurants, entertainment, outdoor activities, and more. Currently offered in English and Thai, advertising space available. Check out website for everything you need to know about this beautiful prefecture. https://hokkaidoguide.com

Use our Buzzsprout affiliate link to start your podcast today!

Website:
https://www.voicesinjapan.com/

Follow us and check out our other content:
https://youtube.com/@voicesinjapanpodcast
https://twitter.com/voicesinjapan
https://www.facebook.com/voicesinjapan/
https://www.instagram.com/voicesinjapan/

Get in touch:
voicesinjapan@gmail.com

Help support us at:
https://www.patreon.com/voicesinjapan
https

Support the show

27 Jun 2019The Fake Plastic Bonsai of Hospitality00:42:07

Japan’s hospitality has the reputation of being second to none, but is this really true? Can Japanese service staff go that extra mile for consumers? What are some of the things that people find disturbing about Japanese hospitality? Listen now for a balanced deconstruction of Japan’s world renowned hospitality!

  • Japanese airlines have amazing hospitality.
  • Restaurant staff in Japan are very efficient and polite, but not particularly friendly.
  • The hosts’ expectations of service are much higher because of what they are used to in Japan.
  • Shop staff in Japan do not chat amongst themselves when customers are present.
  • It’s difficult and uncommon to return goods to a store in Japan.
  • Japanese service staff cannot deviate from protocol or think on their feet. 
  • Burke shares the arduous process of applying for tickets for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.
  • The slogan for the Tokyo Olympics is “Omotenashi”, meaning great hospitality, but do the Japanese really connect with customers?
  • Why do some people find Japanese hospitality disturbing? 
  • The customer is “God” in Japan whereas the customer is “King” in other countries.
  • There are never heated confrontations between customer and staff in Japan. The staff always accepts responsibility.
  • Japanese service staff take insults and abuse from complaining customers, even if the customer is in the wrong. 
  • Word of the day: “Namara”, a word from Hokkaido meaning “very”.
  • People with tattoos are not allowed in onsens/hotsprings/public baths in Japan.
  • Ben’s friend gets kicked out of an onsen because he had a tattoo.
  • Onsens may become more lenient towards tattoos during the 2019 Rugby World Cup.
  • The hosts talk about getting tattoos.
  • Burke talks about his fraternity brothers getting branded (ouch!).


With the 2020 Tokyo Olympics just around the corner, Japan’s hospitality has come into question. Their slogan, “Omotenashi” which means great hospitality, has been criticised in the press,  https://metropolisjapan.com/omotenashi/ because, as the hosts can testify, the Japanese cannot deviate from protocol, which at times can be very frustrating to the customer. However, compared to Western countries, these are only small grimes to an almost perfect system. You won’t find a waiter abusing a customer for not leaving a tip in Japan! 

Japanese hospitality is about 85% there, and they are definitely improving, and by putting a little more effort into considering consumer needs they will surely be the undisputed world champions of hospitality!

Website:

http://podcast.voicesinjapan.com

Follow us and check out our other content:

https://twitter.com/voicesinjapan

https://www.facebook.com/voicesinjapan/

https://www.instagram.com/voicesinjapan/

Get in touch: 

voicesinjapan@gmail.com



Support the show

11 Aug 2023Cycling Hokkaido's Diverse Landscapes00:59:19

Special guest Marty joins the pod to talk about cycling around Hokkaido. We talk about some of the cultural wonders that await every bend of Hokkaido’s coastline. Whether you're a seasoned cyclist or simply curious about the beauty of Japan's northern paradise, this episode will inspire you to hop on your bike and embark on your own unforgettable journey along the Sea of Japan.

Some interesting links mentioned in the episode:

Man in Collie dog costume

Robot Wolf

Hokkaido Cycling Tourism

Sponsors:

MaruMori

This site has everything you need to learn Japanese! It’s an all-in-one, guided, gamified Japanese learning experience with the aim to take you all the way from absolute beginner to language mastery, and the best part is you can start anywhere! 


https://marumori.io/register?rcode=vij

Bearfoot Bar

Located in downtown Sapporo, walking distance from the subway station. There are  variety of Japanese made craft bottled beers. A wide range of regular and unique spirits and basic cocktails also available. Burgers and pub style snacks. With friendly English and Japanese speaking staff.  https://www.facebook.com/bearfootbar
 

The Red House 

Located in the heart of Rusutsu Ski Resort, just cross the main road and it’s behind the Seicomart Convenience store. The restaurant features a mix of Japanese, Asian fusion, and western Style dishes, including shabu-shabu with wagyu beef and Hokkaido wagyu beef steak. Open winter and summer, 12-3pm for lunch, 5-9pm for dinner, with prices ranging from under Yen 1000 to about Yen 5000. https://theredhouse.jp/


 Rusutsu Lodges

Open all year round. Located 5 minutes walk to the main Rusutsu Ski Resort Gondola. There are Japanese, Western, and apartment style rooms with breakfast packages available. There’s a Japanese sento (public bath), two convenience stores less than a minute walk, ski room and tune up tables, plenty of free parking space, and summer BBQ packages available. Check out the website for more information and availability. http://rusutsulodges.com


 Hokkaido Guide

Established over 10 years ago, written by locals for locals and international tourists. The guide contains information on all types of businesses and locations around Hokkaido. There's information regarding all things Hokkaido such as sightseeing, nightlife, events, services, food and restaurants, entertainment, outdoor activities, and more. Currently offered in English and Thai, advertising space available. Check out website for everything you need to know about this beautiful prefecture. https://hokkaidoguide.com


Use our Buzzsprout affiliate link to start your podcast today!
 
Website:

https://www.voicesinjapan.com/
Follow us and check out our other content:

https://youtube.com/@voicesinjapanpodcast

https://twitter.com/voicesinjapan

https://www.facebook.com/voicesinjapan/

https://www.instagram.com/voicesinjapan/

Get in touch: 

voicesinjapan@gmail.com

Support the show

18 Aug 2023Japan's Best Food Festival00:48:58

Ben, Matt, and Burke say good-bye to the summer fun of the Susukino Festival and Beer Garden with another in-depth quiz about Japan's famous alcohol brands (Sapporo, Kirin, Suntory, and Asahi). Then they introduce Autumn Festa, which is an enormous food festival starting soon in downtown Sapporo with over 300 food booths run by restaurants and towns from across Hokkaido that welcomes over two million visitors!

Sponsors:

MaruMori
This site has everything you need to learn Japanese! It’s an all-in-one, guided, gamified Japanese learning experience with the aim to take you all the way from absolute beginner to language mastery, and the best part is you can start anywhere!
https://marumori.io/register?rcode=vij

Bearfoot Bar
Located in downtown Sapporo, walking distance from the subway station. There are  variety of Japanese made craft bottled beers. A wide range of regular and unique spirits and basic cocktails also available. Burgers and pub style snacks. With friendly English and Japanese speaking staff.  https://www.facebook.com/bearfootbar

The Red House
Located in the heart of Rusutsu Ski Resort, just cross the main road and it’s behind the Seicomart Convenience store. The restaurant features a mix of Japanese, Asian fusion, and western Style dishes, including shabu-shabu with wagyu beef and Hokkaido wagyu beef steak. Open winter and summer, 12-3pm for lunch, 5-9pm for dinner, with prices ranging from under Yen 1000 to about Yen 5000. https://theredhouse.jp/

Rusutsu Lodges
Open all year round. Located 5 minutes walk to the main Rusutsu Ski Resort Gondola. There are Japanese, Western, and apartment style rooms with breakfast packages available. There’s a Japanese sento (public bath), two convenience stores less than a minute walk, ski room and tune up tables, plenty of free parking space, and summer BBQ packages available. Check out the website for more information and availability. http://rusutsulodges.com

Hokkaido Guide
Established over 10 years ago, written by locals for locals and international tourists. The guide contains information on all types of businesses and locations around Hokkaido. There's information regarding all things Hokkaido such as sightseeing, nightlife, events, services, food and restaurants, entertainment, outdoor activities, and more. Currently offered in English and Thai, advertising space available. Check out website for everything you need to know about this beautiful prefecture. https://hokkaidoguide.com

Use our Buzzsprout affiliate link to start your podcast today!

Website:
https://www.voicesinjapan.com/

Follow us and check out our other content:
https://youtube.com/@voicesinjapanpodcast
https://twitter.com/voicesinjapan
https://www.facebook.com/voicesinjapan/
https://www.instagram.com/voicesinjapan/

Get in touch:
voicesinjapan@gmail.com

Help support us at:
https://www.patreon.com/voicesinjapan

Support the show

29 Aug 202313 Things to do Alone in Japan01:00:54

Join Ben, Burke, and Matt as we venture into the world of solo travel through the captivating landscapes of Japan. From sipping coffee on high-speed bullet trains to indulging in private ramen dining at Ichiran, we explore how solo travelers can immerse themselves in Japan's unique experiences. From historical insights in Hiroshima to racing Mario Karts through the streets, this episode is your guide to embracing solo travel with a twist in the Land of the Rising Sun.

Sponsors:

MaruMori

This site has everything you need to learn Japanese! It’s an all-in-one, guided, gamified Japanese learning experience with the aim to take you all the way from absolute beginner to language mastery, and the best part is you can start anywhere! 


https://marumori.io/register?rcode=vij


Bearfoot Bar

Located in downtown Sapporo, walking distance from the subway station. There are  variety of Japanese made craft bottled beers. A wide range of regular and unique spirits and basic cocktails also available. Burgers and pub style snacks. With friendly English and Japanese speaking staff.  https://www.facebook.com/bearfootbar
 

The Red House 

Located in the heart of Rusutsu Ski Resort, just cross the main road and it’s behind the Seicomart Convenience store. The restaurant features a mix of Japanese, Asian fusion, and western Style dishes, including shabu-shabu with wagyu beef and Hokkaido wagyu beef steak. Open winter and summer, 12-3pm for lunch, 5-9pm for dinner, with prices ranging from under Yen 1000 to about Yen 5000. https://theredhouse.jp/


 Rusutsu Lodges

Open all year round. Located 5 minutes walk to the main Rusutsu Ski Resort Gondola. There are Japanese, Western, and apartment style rooms with breakfast packages available. There’s a Japanese sento (public bath), two convenience stores less than a minute walk, ski room and tune up tables, plenty of free parking space, and summer BBQ packages available. Check out the website for more information and availability. http://rusutsulodges.com


Hokkaido Guide

Established over 10 years ago, written by locals for locals and international tourists. The guide contains information on all types of businesses and locations around Hokkaido. There's information regarding all things Hokkaido such as sightseeing, nightlife, events, services, food and restaurants, entertainment, outdoor activities, and more. Currently offered in English and Thai, advertising space available. Check out website for everything you need to know about this beautiful prefecture. https://hokkaidoguide.com


Use our Buzzsprout affiliate link to start your podcast today!
 
Website:

https://www.voicesinjapan.com/

Follow us and check out our other content:

https://youtube.com/@voicesinjapanpodcast

https://twitter.com/voicesinjapan

https://www.facebook.com/voicesinjapan/

https://www.instagram.com/voicesinjapan/

Get in touch: 

voicesinjapan@gmail.com

Help support us at:

https://www.patreon.com/voicesinjapan

Support the show

11 Sep 2023Unraveling the Fascinating World of Katakana Words00:58:33

Special guest Yumi joins Ben and Matt on the podcast to talk about the captivating world of Katakana words! We'll explore how Katakana is used for loanwords, and foreign names, providing insights into how it enriches the Japanese language. Whether you're a beginner or an intermediate learner, this episode will help you understand and appreciate Katakana words in your Japanese language journey.

Sponsors:

MaruMori

This site has everything you need to learn Japanese! It’s an all-in-one, guided, gamified Japanese learning experience with the aim to take you all the way from absolute beginner to language mastery, and the best part is you can start anywhere! https://marumori.io/register?rcode=vij

Bearfoot Bar

Located in downtown Sapporo, walking distance from the subway station. There are  variety of Japanese made craft bottled beers. A wide range of regular and unique spirits and basic cocktails also available. Burgers and pub style snacks. With friendly English and Japanese speaking staff.  https://www.facebook.com/bearfootbar
 
The Red House 

Located in the heart of Rusutsu Ski Resort, just cross the main road and it’s behind the Seicomart Convenience store. The restaurant features a mix of Japanese, Asian fusion, and western Style dishes, including shabu-shabu with wagyu beef and Hokkaido wagyu beef steak. Open winter and summer, 12-3pm for lunch, 5-9pm for dinner, with prices ranging from under Yen 1000 to about Yen 5000. https://theredhouse.jp/


Rusutsu Lodges

Open all year round. Located 5 minutes walk to the main Rusutsu Ski Resort Gondola. There are Japanese, Western, and apartment style rooms with breakfast packages available. There’s a Japanese sento (public bath), two convenience stores less than a minute walk, ski room and tune up tables, plenty of free parking space, and summer BBQ packages available. Check out the website for more information and availability. http://rusutsulodges.com


Hokkaido Guide

Established over 10 years ago, written by locals for locals and international tourists. The guide contains information on all types of businesses and locations around Hokkaido. There's information regarding all things Hokkaido such as sightseeing, nightlife, events, services, food and restaurants, entertainment, outdoor activities, and more. Currently offered in English and Thai, advertising space available. Check out website for everything you need to know about this beautiful prefecture. https://hokkaidoguide.com


Use our Buzzsprout affiliate link to start your podcast today!

Website: https://www.voicesinjapan.com/

Follow us and check out our other content:

https://youtube.com/@voicesinjapanpodcast

https://twitter.com/voicesinjapan

https://www.facebook.com/voicesinjapan/

https://www.instagram.com/voicesinjapan/


Get in touch: 

voicesinjapan@gmail.com


Help support us at:

https://www.patreon.com/voicesinjapan

https://www.buymeacoffee.com/voicesinjapan

Support the show

20 Sep 202314 Ways Japanese People Know You're a Tourist01:03:35

In Japan, even the way you dress or the scent of your perfume can mark you as a foreign tourist. From gender interactions to surprising greetings, Matt and Burke discuss the subtle nuances of Japanese culture and social norms that often catch foreigners off-guard.

Sponsors:

MaruMori

This site has everything you need to learn Japanese! It’s an all-in-one, guided, gamified Japanese learning experience with the aim to take you all the way from absolute beginner to language mastery, and the best part is you can start anywhere!
https://marumori.io/register?rcode=vij

Bearfoot Bar

Located in downtown Sapporo, walking distance from the subway station. There are  variety of Japanese made craft bottled beers. A wide range of regular and unique spirits and basic cocktails also available. Burgers and pub style snacks. With friendly English and Japanese speaking staff.
https://www.facebook.com/bearfootbar

The Red House 

Located in the heart of Rusutsu Ski Resort, just cross the main road and it’s behind the Seicomart Convenience store. The restaurant features a mix of Japanese, Asian fusion, and western Style dishes, including shabu-shabu with wagyu beef and Hokkaido wagyu beef steak. Open winter and summer, 12-3pm for lunch, 5-9pm for dinner, with prices ranging from under Yen 1000 to about Yen 5000.
https://theredhouse.jp/

Rusutsu Lodges

Open all year round. Located 5 minutes walk to the main Rusutsu Ski Resort Gondola. There are Japanese, Western, and apartment style rooms with breakfast packages available. There’s a Japanese sento (public bath), two convenience stores less than a minute walk, ski room and tune up tables, plenty of free parking space, and summer BBQ packages available. Check out the website for more information and availability.
http://rusutsulodges.com

Hokkaido Guide

Established over 10 years ago, written by locals for locals and international tourists. The guide contains information on all types of businesses and locations around Hokkaido. There's information regarding all things Hokkaido such as sightseeing, nightlife, events, services, food and restaurants, entertainment, outdoor activities, and more. Currently offered in English and Thai, advertising space available. Check out website for everything you need to know about this beautiful prefecture.
https://hokkaidoguide.com

Use our Buzzsprout affiliate link to start your podcast today!

Website: https://www.voicesinjapan.com/

Follow us and check out our other content:
https://youtube.com/@voicesinjapanpodcast
https://twitter.com/voicesinjapan
https://www.facebook.com/voicesinjapan/
https://www.instagram.com/voicesinjapan/

Get in touch:  voicesinjapan@gmail.com

Help support us at:
https://www.patreon.com/voicesinjapan

Support the show

04 Jul 2019Japan’s Love For Old Technology00:38:35

Japan is undoubtedly a leader when it comes to technology development, from high quality electronic devices to robots and machines that are widely used in manufacturing plants around the world.  However, in everyday life in Japan, it is not uncommon to see certain technologies that one may remember from the 1990's or early 2000's in other countries.  It can be quite confusing for a foreigner who arrives in the country after binge watching their favorite Japanese anime with a robot or futuristic theme.  Find out about some of the baffling tech devices our podcasters have encountered while living and working in Japan in this episode.


Let us know your opinion!

Website:

http://podcast.voicesinjapan.com

Follow us and check out our other content:

https://twitter.com/voicesinjapan

https://www.facebook.com/voicesinjapan/

https://www.instagram.com/voicesinjapan/

Get in touch: 

voicesinjapan@gmail.com


Support the show

27 Sep 2023The Pathway to Representing Japan in Rugby00:51:41

Rugby has gained immense popularity in Japan, especially after hosting the 2019 Rugby World Cup. Many aspiring players from around the world dream of representing Japan on the international stage. But how can one become eligible to don the famous cherry blossoms jersey? Ben and Burke explore what it takes for foreigners to become eligible to play rugby for the Japanese national team.

Previous podcast episodes mentioned in the show:
Rugby World Cup in Japan Part 1
Rugby World Cup in Japan Part 2
Being a Foreigner on Japan’s Comedy Circuit

Sponsors:

MaruMori

This site has everything you need to learn Japanese! It’s an all-in-one, guided, gamified Japanese learning experience with the aim to take you all the way from absolute beginner to language mastery, and the best part is you can start anywhere! https://marumori.io/register?rcode=vij

Bearfoot Bar

Located in downtown Sapporo, walking distance from the subway station. There are  variety of Japanese made craft bottled beers. A wide range of regular and unique spirits and basic cocktails also available. Burgers and pub style snacks. With friendly English and Japanese speaking staff.  https://www.facebook.com/bearfootbar
 
Rusutsu Lodges

Open all year round. Located 5 minutes walk to the main Rusutsu Ski Resort Gondola. There are Japanese, Western, and apartment style rooms with breakfast packages available. There’s a Japanese sento (public bath), two convenience stores less than a minute walk, ski room and tune up tables, plenty of free parking space, and summer BBQ packages available. Check out the website for more information and availability. http://rusutsulodges.com

Hokkaido Guide

Established over 10 years ago, written by locals for locals and international tourists. The guide contains information on all types of businesses and locations around Hokkaido. There's information regarding all things Hokkaido such as sightseeing, nightlife, events, services, food and restaurants, entertainment, outdoor activities, and more. Currently offered in English and Thai, advertising space available. Check out website for everything you need to know about this beautiful prefecture. https://hokkaidoguide.com

Use our Buzzsprout affiliate link to start your podcast today!

Website: https://www.voicesinjapan.com/

Follow us and check out our other content:

https://youtube.com/@voicesinjapanpodcast

https://twitter.com/voicesinjapan

https://www.facebook.com/voicesinjapan/

https://www.instagram.com/voicesinjapan/

Get in touch: 

voicesinjapan@gmail.com

Support the show

10 Oct 2023Bears, Pro Wrestlers, and Fake Monks Cause Headaches for Japan00:52:26

The guys discuss Japan recent struggles with nature, bullet train promo campaigns, and deceit at Japanese temples.

Sponsors:

MaruMori

This site has everything you need to learn Japanese! It’s an all-in-one, guided, gamified Japanese learning experience with the aim to take you all the way from absolute beginner to language mastery, and the best part is you can start anywhere!
https://marumori.io/register?rcode=vij

Bearfoot Bar

Located in downtown Sapporo, walking distance from the subway station. There are  variety of Japanese made craft bottled beers. A wide range of regular and unique spirits and basic cocktails also available. Burgers and pub style snacks. With friendly English and Japanese speaking staff.
https://www.facebook.com/bearfootbar

The Red House 

Located in the heart of Rusutsu Ski Resort, just cross the main road and it’s behind the Seicomart Convenience store. The restaurant features a mix of Japanese, Asian fusion, and western Style dishes, including shabu-shabu with wagyu beef and Hokkaido wagyu beef steak. Open winter and summer, 12-3pm for lunch, 5-9pm for dinner, with prices ranging from under Yen 1000 to about Yen 5000.
https://theredhouse.jp/

Rusutsu Lodges

Open all year round. Located 5 minutes walk to the main Rusutsu Ski Resort Gondola. There are Japanese, Western, and apartment style rooms with breakfast packages available. There’s a Japanese sento (public bath), two convenience stores less than a minute walk, ski room and tune up tables, plenty of free parking space, and summer BBQ packages available. Check out the website for more information and availability.
http://rusutsulodges.com

Hokkaido Guide

Established over 10 years ago, written by locals for locals and international tourists. The guide contains information on all types of businesses and locations around Hokkaido. There's information regarding all things Hokkaido such as sightseeing, nightlife, events, services, food and restaurants, entertainment, outdoor activities, and more. Currently offered in English and Thai, advertising space available. Check out website for everything you need to know about this beautiful prefecture.
https://hokkaidoguide.com

Use our Buzzsprout affiliate link to start your podcast today!

Website: https://www.voicesinjapan.com/

Follow us and check out our other content:
https://youtube.com/@voicesinjapanpodcast
https://twitter.com/voicesinjapan
https://www.facebook.com/voicesinjapan/
https://www.instagram.com/voicesinjapan/

Get in touch:  voicesinjapan@gmail.com

Help support us at:
https://www.patreon.com/voicesinjapan




Support the show

18 Oct 2023Don't Answer that Telephone!00:37:39

When is it safe to answer the telephone in Japan, and when is it a very bad idea? Various phone scams have been on the rise, including calls from unlisted numbers, text messages, and Whatsapp messages. They all lead to a dubious end. The guys discuss scams they've experienced, overseas tourists getting into car accidents in Japan, thieves targeting drunk people on the street, and more!

Sponsors:

MaruMori

This site has everything you need to learn Japanese! It’s an all-in-one, guided, gamified Japanese learning experience with the aim to take you all the way from absolute beginner to language mastery, and the best part is you can start anywhere!
https://marumori.io/register?rcode=vij

Bearfoot Bar

Located in downtown Sapporo, walking distance from the subway station. There are  variety of Japanese made craft bottled beers. A wide range of regular and unique spirits and basic cocktails also available. Burgers and pub style snacks. With friendly English and Japanese speaking staff.
https://www.facebook.com/bearfootbar

The Red House 

Located in the heart of Rusutsu Ski Resort, just cross the main road and it’s behind the Seicomart Convenience store. The restaurant features a mix of Japanese, Asian fusion, and western Style dishes, including shabu-shabu with wagyu beef and Hokkaido wagyu beef steak. Open winter and summer, 12-3pm for lunch, 5-9pm for dinner, with prices ranging from under Yen 1000 to about Yen 5000.
https://theredhouse.jp/

Rusutsu Lodges

Open all year round. Located 5 minutes walk to the main Rusutsu Ski Resort Gondola. There are Japanese, Western, and apartment style rooms with breakfast packages available. There’s a Japanese sento (public bath), two convenience stores less than a minute walk, ski room and tune up tables, plenty of free parking space, and summer BBQ packages available. Check out the website for more information and availability.
http://rusutsulodges.com

Hokkaido Guide

Established over 10 years ago, written by locals for locals and international tourists. The guide contains information on all types of businesses and locations around Hokkaido. There's information regarding all things Hokkaido such as sightseeing, nightlife, events, services, food and restaurants, entertainment, outdoor activities, and more. Currently offered in English and Thai, advertising space available. Check out website for everything you need to know about this beautiful prefecture.
https://hokkaidoguide.com

Use our Buzzsprout affiliate link to start your podcast today!

Website: https://www.voicesinjapan.com/

Follow us and check out our other content:
https://youtube.com/@voicesinjapanpodcast
https://twitter.com/voicesinjapan
https://www.facebook.com/voicesinjapan/
https://www.instagram.com/voicesinjapan/

Get in touch:  voicesinjapan@gmail.com

Help support us at:
https://www.patreon.com/voicesinjapan

Support the show

25 Oct 2023All 47 Prefectures in Japan Ranked for "Attractiveness"00:52:39

Ben and Matt discuss the results of an annual online survey ranking Japan’s "attractive prefectures” conducted by Brand Research Institute, a private research company. The survey conducted in June and July received around 34,000 valid responses.

Sponsors:

MaruMori

This site has everything you need to learn Japanese! It’s an all-in-one, guided, gamified Japanese learning experience with the aim to take you all the way from absolute beginner to language mastery, and the best part is you can start anywhere! 

https://marumori.io/register?rcode=vij


Bearfoot Bar

Located in downtown Sapporo, walking distance from the subway station. There are  variety of Japanese made craft bottled beers. A wide range of regular and unique spirits and basic cocktails also available. Burgers and pub style snacks. With friendly English and Japanese speaking staff.  https://www.facebook.com/bearfootbar
 

The Red House 

Located in the heart of Rusutsu Ski Resort, just cross the main road and it’s behind the Seicomart Convenience store. The restaurant features a mix of Japanese, Asian fusion, and western Style dishes, including shabu-shabu with wagyu beef and Hokkaido wagyu beef steak. Open winter and summer, 12-3pm for lunch, 5-9pm for dinner, with prices ranging from under Yen 1000 to about Yen 5000. https://theredhouse.jp/


 Rusutsu Lodges

Open all year round. Located 5 minutes walk to the main Rusutsu Ski Resort Gondola. There are Japanese, Western, and apartment style rooms with breakfast packages available. There’s a Japanese sento (public bath), two convenience stores less than a minute walk, ski room and tune up tables, plenty of free parking space, and summer BBQ packages available. Check out the website for more information and availability. http://rusutsulodges.com


 Hokkaido Guide

Established over 10 years ago, written by locals for locals and international tourists. The guide contains information on all types of businesses and locations around Hokkaido. There's information regarding all things Hokkaido such as sightseeing, nightlife, events, services, food and restaurants, entertainment, outdoor activities, and more. Currently offered in English and Thai, advertising space available. Check out website for everything you need to know about this beautiful prefecture. https://hokkaidoguide.com


Use our Buzzsprout affiliate link to start your podcast today!
 
Website:

https://www.voicesinjapan.com/
Follow us and check out our other content:

https://youtube.com/@voicesinjapanpodcast

https://twitter.com/voicesinjapan

https://www.facebook.com/voicesinjapan/

https://www.instagram.com/voicesinjapan/

Get in touch: 

voicesinjapan@gmail.com


Help support us at:

https://www.patreon.com/voicesinjapan

https://www.buymeacoffee.com/voicesinjapan


Support the show

11 Jul 2019Japan’s Dual Nationality Problem00:46:05

Dual nationality has been in the news lately. The professional tennis player, Naomi Osaka is about to reach her 22nd birthday, when she will have to decide (by Japanese law) which citizenship to have, Japanese or American. We have a very interesting, albeit sensitive, conversation about mixed race issues, citizenship, and national identity. Enjoy!


Conversation highlights:

  • A little chit chat on what the hosts have been up to.
  • Naomi Osaka has to decide between US and Japanese citizenship by her 22nd birthday.
  • From the age of 22 onward, Japanese nationals cannot have more than one citizenship, unlike some countries such as the UK and the US.
  • However, even though this is law in Japan, it has never been officially enforced, so many residents do have dual citizenship.
  • An example story of someone being informed, at immigration, of having dual citizenship yet was not forced to choose one. This shows how relaxed Japan is on this law.
  • “Hafu” or mixed-race Japanese people are not accepted as being Japanese.
  • A half Iranian half Bolivian 16 year old, born and raised in Japan has been threatened with deportation because he is not considered a Japanese citizen by “jus sanguinis” (right of blood), instead is classed as a foreigner overstaying his visa.
  • Mixed-race Japanese who have lived all their lives in Japan, but may not look Japanese face discrimination.
  • Does Burke get treated differently in Japan as someone who is half Japanese and half American?
  • Does Ben get mistaken for being Japanese and does he feel more accepted because of his Asian heritage?
  • The hosts discuss the difficulty for foreigners to make friends with Japanese people and the reasons why.
  • When have our hosts felt the most immersed into Japanese society?
  • Do the hosts feel that they have been accepted into Japanese society?
  • Being a foreigner in Japan feels special because of the (mostly positive) treatment and attention they receive. 
  • Some Japanese who have lived overseas, once they return to Japan, struggle to adapt to Japanese society.
  • Word of the day (proverb): Ichi-go ichi-e


Website:

http://podcast.voicesinjapan.com

Follow us and check out our other content:

https://twitter.com/voicesinjapan

https://www.facebook.com/voicesinjapan/

https://www.instagram.com/voicesinjapan/

Get in touch: 

voicesinjapan@gmail.com




Support the show

07 Nov 20232023 Halloween Special00:51:56

In this special episode, Ben, Burke and Matt take a look at Halloween in Japan and recap Halloween 2023! We explore scary Japanese myths and creepy urban legends and folklore. Take a listen if you dare!

Sponsors:

MaruMori

This site has everything you need to learn Japanese! It’s an all-in-one, guided, gamified Japanese learning experience with the aim to take you all the way from absolute beginner to language mastery, and the best part is you can start anywhere!
https://marumori.io/register?rcode=vij

Bearfoot Bar

Located in downtown Sapporo, walking distance from the subway station. There are  variety of Japanese made craft bottled beers. A wide range of regular and unique spirits and basic cocktails also available. Burgers and pub style snacks. With friendly English and Japanese speaking staff.
https://www.facebook.com/bearfootbar

The Red House 

Located in the heart of Rusutsu Ski Resort, just cross the main road and it’s behind the Seicomart Convenience store. The restaurant features a mix of Japanese, Asian fusion, and western Style dishes, including shabu-shabu with wagyu beef and Hokkaido wagyu beef steak. Open winter and summer, 12-3pm for lunch, 5-9pm for dinner, with prices ranging from under Yen 1000 to about Yen 5000.
https://theredhouse.jp/

Rusutsu Lodges

Open all year round. Located 5 minutes walk to the main Rusutsu Ski Resort Gondola. There are Japanese, Western, and apartment style rooms with breakfast packages available. There’s a Japanese sento (public bath), two convenience stores less than a minute walk, ski room and tune up tables, plenty of free parking space, and summer BBQ packages available. Check out the website for more information and availability.
http://rusutsulodges.com

Hokkaido Guide

Established over 10 years ago, written by locals for locals and international tourists. The guide contains information on all types of businesses and locations around Hokkaido. There's information regarding all things Hokkaido such as sightseeing, nightlife, events, services, food and restaurants, entertainment, outdoor activities, and more. Currently offered in English and Thai, advertising space available. Check out website for everything you need to know about this beautiful prefecture.
https://hokkaidoguide.com

Use our Buzzsprout affiliate link to start your podcast today!

Website: https://www.voicesinjapan.com/

Follow us and check out our other content:
https://youtube.com/@voicesinjapanpodcast
https://twitter.com/voicesinjapan
https://www.facebook.com/voicesinjapan/
https://www.instagram.com/voicesinjapan/

Get in touch:  voicesinjapan@gmail.com

Support the show

14 Nov 2023The Best Japanese Souvenirs to Buy00:45:31

Burke quizzes Ben and Matt on the top 15 souvenirs to buy in Japan, Ben explains his favorite Japanese topic to Google, and Matt reveals where he likes to go to experience real Japanese culture.

Sponsors:

MaruMori

This site has everything you need to learn Japanese! It’s an all-in-one, guided, gamified Japanese learning experience with the aim to take you all the way from absolute beginner to language mastery, and the best part is you can start anywhere!
https://marumori.io/register?rcode=vij

Bearfoot Bar

Located in downtown Sapporo, walking distance from the subway station. There are  variety of Japanese made craft bottled beers. A wide range of regular and unique spirits and basic cocktails also available. Burgers and pub style snacks. With friendly English and Japanese speaking staff.
https://www.facebook.com/bearfootbar

The Red House 

Located in the heart of Rusutsu Ski Resort, just cross the main road and it’s behind the Seicomart Convenience store. The restaurant features a mix of Japanese, Asian fusion, and western Style dishes, including shabu-shabu with wagyu beef and Hokkaido wagyu beef steak. Open winter and summer, 12-3pm for lunch, 5-9pm for dinner, with prices ranging from under Yen 1000 to about Yen 5000.
https://theredhouse.jp/

Rusutsu Lodges

Open all year round. Located 5 minutes walk to the main Rusutsu Ski Resort Gondola. There are Japanese, Western, and apartment style rooms with breakfast packages available. There’s a Japanese sento (public bath), two convenience stores less than a minute walk, ski room and tune up tables, plenty of free parking space, and summer BBQ packages available. Check out the website for more information and availability.
http://rusutsulodges.com

Hokkaido Guide

Established over 10 years ago, written by locals for locals and international tourists. The guide contains information on all types of businesses and locations around Hokkaido. There's information regarding all things Hokkaido such as sightseeing, nightlife, events, services, food and restaurants, entertainment, outdoor activities, and more. Currently offered in English and Thai, advertising space available. Check out website for everything you need to know about this beautiful prefecture.
https://hokkaidoguide.com

Use our Buzzsprout affiliate link to start your podcast today!

Website: https://www.voicesinjapan.com/

Follow us and check out our other content:
https://youtube.com/@voicesinjapanpodcast
https://twitter.com/voicesinjapan
https://www.facebook.com/voicesinjapan/
https://www.instagram.com/voicesinjapan/

Get in touch:  voicesinjapan@gmail.com

Support the show

22 Nov 202310 Japanese Customs that Other Countries Need Now!00:46:55

Ben, Matt and Burke discuss ten Japanese cultural practices that could significantly enhance life in other countries. From the deep respect for others' experiences to simple yet impactful customs, listen now to explore these fascinating insights and consider their potential in your own country!

Sponsors:

MaruMori

This site has everything you need to learn Japanese! It’s an all-in-one, guided, gamified Japanese learning experience with the aim to take you all the way from absolute beginner to language mastery, and the best part is you can start anywhere!
https://marumori.io/register?rcode=vij

Bearfoot Bar

Located in downtown Sapporo, walking distance from the subway station. There are  variety of Japanese made craft bottled beers. A wide range of regular and unique spirits and basic cocktails also available. Burgers and pub style snacks. With friendly English and Japanese speaking staff.
https://www.facebook.com/bearfootbar

The Red House 

Located in the heart of Rusutsu Ski Resort, just cross the main road and it’s behind the Seicomart Convenience store. The restaurant features a mix of Japanese, Asian fusion, and western Style dishes, including shabu-shabu with wagyu beef and Hokkaido wagyu beef steak. Open winter and summer, 12-3pm for lunch, 5-9pm for dinner, with prices ranging from under Yen 1000 to about Yen 5000.
https://theredhouse.jp/

Rusutsu Lodges

Open all year round. Located 5 minutes walk to the main Rusutsu Ski Resort Gondola. There are Japanese, Western, and apartment style rooms with breakfast packages available. There’s a Japanese sento (public bath), two convenience stores less than a minute walk, ski room and tune up tables, plenty of free parking space, and summer BBQ packages available. Check out the website for more information and availability.
http://rusutsulodges.com

Hokkaido Guide

Established over 10 years ago, written by locals for locals and international tourists. The guide contains information on all types of businesses and locations around Hokkaido. There's information regarding all things Hokkaido such as sightseeing, nightlife, events, services, food and restaurants, entertainment, outdoor activities, and more. Currently offered in English and Thai, advertising space available. Check out website for everything you need to know about this beautiful prefecture.
https://hokkaidoguide.com

Use our Buzzsprout affiliate link to start your podcast today!

Website: https://www.voicesinjapan.com/

Follow us and check out our other content:
https://youtube.com/@voicesinjapanpodcast
https://twitter.com/voicesinjapan
https://www.facebook.com/voicesinjapan/
https://www.instagram.com/voicesinjapan/

Get in touch:  voicesinjapan@gmail.com

Support the show

29 Nov 2023Spice Things up With These 10 Japanese Drinking Games00:31:39

Ben, Burke and Matt talk about some popular drinking games that Japanese people may play at parties or snack bars (bars with hostesses).

Sponsors:

MaruMori

This site has everything you need to learn Japanese! It’s an all-in-one, guided, gamified Japanese learning experience with the aim to take you all the way from absolute beginner to language mastery, and the best part is you can start anywhere! 

https://marumori.io/register?rcode=vij


Bearfoot Bar

Located in downtown Sapporo, walking distance from the subway station. There are  variety of Japanese made craft bottled beers. A wide range of regular and unique spirits and basic cocktails also available. Burgers and pub style snacks. With friendly English and Japanese speaking staff.  https://www.facebook.com/bearfootbar
 

The Red House 

Located in the heart of Rusutsu Ski Resort, just cross the main road and it’s behind the Seicomart Convenience store. The restaurant features a mix of Japanese, Asian fusion, and western Style dishes, including shabu-shabu with wagyu beef and Hokkaido wagyu beef steak. Open winter and summer, 12-3pm for lunch, 5-9pm for dinner, with prices ranging from under Yen 1000 to about Yen 5000. https://theredhouse.jp/


 Rusutsu Lodges

Open all year round. Located 5 minutes walk to the main Rusutsu Ski Resort Gondola. There are Japanese, Western, and apartment style rooms with breakfast packages available. There’s a Japanese sento (public bath), two convenience stores less than a minute walk, ski room and tune up tables, plenty of free parking space, and summer BBQ packages available. Check out the website for more information and availability. http://rusutsulodges.com


 Hokkaido Guide

Established over 10 years ago, written by locals for locals and international tourists. The guide contains information on all types of businesses and locations around Hokkaido. There's information regarding all things Hokkaido such as sightseeing, nightlife, events, services, food and restaurants, entertainment, outdoor activities, and more. Currently offered in English and Thai, advertising space available. Check out website for everything you need to know about this beautiful prefecture. https://hokkaidoguide.com


Use our Buzzsprout affiliate link to start your podcast today!
 
Website:

https://www.voicesinjapan.com/
Follow us and check out our other content:

https://youtube.com/@voicesinjapanpodcast

https://twitter.com/voicesinjapan

https://www.facebook.com/voicesinjapan/

https://www.instagram.com/voicesinjapan/

Get in touch: 

voicesinjapan@gmail.com


Support the show

08 Dec 2023Are These Rumors About Living in Japan True?00:29:25

Ben, Matt, and Burke try to discover the truth about well-known rumors related to everyday life in Japan. The country is renowned for its safety, cleanliness and distinctive customs, but what are the true reasons behind how Japanese society functions. Listen to find out now!

Sponsors:

MaruMori

This site has everything you need to learn Japanese! It’s an all-in-one, guided, gamified Japanese learning experience with the aim to take you all the way from absolute beginner to language mastery, and the best part is you can start anywhere!
https://marumori.io/register?rcode=vij

Bearfoot Bar

Located in downtown Sapporo, walking distance from the subway station. There are  variety of Japanese made craft bottled beers. A wide range of regular and unique spirits and basic cocktails also available. Burgers and pub style snacks. With friendly English and Japanese speaking staff.
https://www.facebook.com/bearfootbar

The Red House 

Located in the heart of Rusutsu Ski Resort, just cross the main road and it’s behind the Seicomart Convenience store. The restaurant features a mix of Japanese, Asian fusion, and western Style dishes, including shabu-shabu with wagyu beef and Hokkaido wagyu beef steak. Open winter and summer, 12-3pm for lunch, 5-9pm for dinner, with prices ranging from under Yen 1000 to about Yen 5000.
https://theredhouse.jp/

Rusutsu Lodges

Open all year round. Located only a 5-minute walk away from the main Rusutsu Ski Resort Gondola. There are Japanese, Western, and apartment style rooms with breakfast packages available. There’s a Japanese sento (public bath), two convenience stores less than a minute walk, ski room and tune up tables, plenty of free parking space, and summer BBQ packages available. Check out the website for more information and availability.
http://rusutsulodges.com

Hokkaido Guide

Established over 10 years ago, written by locals for locals and international tourists. The guide contains information on all types of businesses and locations around Hokkaido. There's information regarding all things Hokkaido such as sightseeing, nightlife, events, services, food and restaurants, entertainment, outdoor activities, and more. Currently offered in English and Thai, advertising space available. Check out website for everything you need to know about this beautiful prefecture.
https://hokkaidoguide.com

Use our Buzzsprout affiliate link to start your podcast today!

Website: https://www.voicesinjapan.com/

Follow us and check out our other content:
https://youtube.com/@voicesinjapanpodcast
https://twitter.com/voicesinjapan
https://www.facebook.com/voicesinjapan/
https://www.instagram.com/voicesinjapan/

Get in touch:  voicesinjapan@gmail.com

Support the show

13 Dec 2023Essential Travel Tips to Know Before you Visit Japan00:33:37

Listen to this episode ad free + exclusive episodes and bonus material at https://www.patreon.com/voicesinjapan

Ben, Burke and Matt discuss some important things to think about when planning your trip to Japan.

Sponsors:

MaruMori

This site has everything you need to learn Japanese! It’s an all-in-one, guided, gamified Japanese learning experience with the aim to take you all the way from absolute beginner to language mastery, and the best part is you can start anywhere! 

https://marumori.io/register?rcode=vij


Bearfoot Bar

Located in downtown Sapporo, walking distance from the subway station. There are  variety of Japanese made craft bottled beers. A wide range of regular and unique spirits and basic cocktails also available. Burgers and pub style snacks. With friendly English and Japanese speaking staff.  https://www.facebook.com/bearfootbar
 

The Red House 

Located in the heart of Rusutsu Ski Resort, just cross the main road and it’s behind the Seicomart Convenience store. The restaurant features a mix of Japanese, Asian fusion, and western Style dishes, including shabu-shabu with wagyu beef and Hokkaido wagyu beef steak. Open winter and summer, 12-3pm for lunch, 5-9pm for dinner, with prices ranging from under Yen 1000 to about Yen 5000. https://theredhouse.jp/


 Rusutsu Lodges

Open all year round. Located 5 minutes walk to the main Rusutsu Ski Resort Gondola. There are Japanese, Western, and apartment style rooms with breakfast packages available. There’s a Japanese sento (public bath), two convenience stores less than a minute walk, ski room and tune up tables, plenty of free parking space, and summer BBQ packages available. Check out the website for more information and availability. http://rusutsulodges.com


 Hokkaido Guide

Established over 10 years ago, written by locals for locals and international tourists. The guide contains information on all types of businesses and locations around Hokkaido. There's information regarding all things Hokkaido such as sightseeing, nightlife, events, services, food and restaurants, entertainment, outdoor activities, and more. Currently offered in English and Thai, advertising space available. Check out website for everything you need to know about this beautiful prefecture. https://hokkaidoguide.com


Use our Buzzsprout affiliate link to start your podcast today!
 
Website:

https://www.voicesinjapan.com/

Follow us and check out our other content:

https://youtube.com/@voicesinjapanpodcast

https://twitter.com/voicesinjapan

https://www.facebook.com/voicesinjapan/

https://www.instagram.com/voicesinjapan/

Get in touch: 

voicesinjapan@gmail.com


Support the show

20 Dec 2023The Big Fat Japan Quiz 2023!01:14:18

Once again Ben and Burke go head to head with Matt as the referee as we recap the year in Japan for 2023! How do you score against these two rising sun titans? What stories have headlined in Japan this year? Have a Happy and Safe New Year, from everyone at Voices in Japan!!!

Sponsors:

MaruMori

This site has everything you need to learn Japanese! It’s an all-in-one, guided, gamified Japanese learning experience with the aim to take you all the way from absolute beginner to language mastery, and the best part is you can start anywhere!
https://marumori.io/register?rcode=vij

Bearfoot Bar

Located in downtown Sapporo, walking distance from the subway station. There are  variety of Japanese made craft bottled beers. A wide range of regular and unique spirits and basic cocktails also available. Burgers and pub style snacks. With friendly English and Japanese speaking staff.
https://www.facebook.com/bearfootbar

The Red House 

Located in the heart of Rusutsu Ski Resort, just cross the main road and it’s behind the Seicomart Convenience store. The restaurant features a mix of Japanese, Asian fusion, and western Style dishes, including shabu-shabu with wagyu beef and Hokkaido wagyu beef steak. Open winter and summer, 12-3pm for lunch, 5-9pm for dinner, with prices ranging from under Yen 1000 to about Yen 5000.
https://theredhouse.jp/

Rusutsu Lodges

Open all year round. Located only a 5-minute walk away from the main Rusutsu Ski Resort Gondola. There are Japanese, Western, and apartment style rooms with breakfast packages available. There’s a Japanese sento (public bath), two convenience stores less than a minute walk, ski room and tune up tables, plenty of free parking space, and summer BBQ packages available. Check out the website for more information and availability.
http://rusutsulodges.com

Hokkaido Guide

Established over 10 years ago, written by locals for locals and international tourists. The guide contains information on all types of businesses and locations around Hokkaido. There's information regarding all things Hokkaido such as sightseeing, nightlife, events, services, food and restaurants, entertainment, outdoor activities, and more. Currently offered in English and Thai, advertising space available. Check out website for everything you need to know about this beautiful prefecture.
https://hokkaidoguide.com

Use our Buzzsprout affiliate link to start your podcast today!

Website: https://www.voicesinjapan.com/

Follow us and check out our other content:
https://youtube.com/@voicesinjapanpodcast
https://twitter.com/voicesinjapan
https://www.facebook.com/voicesinjapan/
https://www.instagram.com/voicesinjapan/

Get in touch:  voicesinjapan@gmail.com

Support the show

18 Jul 2019Working with the Yakuza00:46:32

Over the years, there have been many TV dramas and movies about Yakuza (organized crime syndicates originating in Japan) that often times romanticize membership in the organizations.  While Yakuza have a negative reputation in general, it is not uncommon to come to know a current or former member of one of the clans if you live in Japan, simply because Yakuza are involved in many businesses or other parts of everyday society, and for the most part, they tend to come across as good people.  A close friend of the podcasters and fellow martial artist, Damien, joins this episode to share some of the experiences he has had with Yakuza through jobs that he had during his early years in Japan, and it’s interesting to hear his take on the unique place the Yakuza hold in society.  Please check out Damien’s website that is scheduled to start reselling Japanese sweets and other merchandise from August 2019 (domodomocandy.com), and as always, thank you so much for listening to and supporting the podcast!

Support the podcast by making a donation.

Conversation highlights:

  • Damien’s motivation to come to Japan to study judo and chiropractic treatment after practicing judo in his native country of France
  • The history of the Yakuza going back to the feudal 1600s in Japan when Burakumin (an outcast group at the bottom of the social order) came together to form organized gangs
  • The difficulties that Damien faced with finding work when he first came to Sapporo, and how that eventually led to an introduction and job interview with a former Yakuza lieutenant, Mr. “S.”
  • The background of Mr. S, his position with the Inagawa-kai (one of the largest Yakuza groups in Japan based in the Kanto region), and the reason he could speak French
  • The way that Mr. S came to acquire a moving company where Damien became employed during his early 20s in Sapporo
  • The reason why some Yakuza choose not to get irezumi (traditional Japanese tattoos done by hand, using wooden handles and metal needles, and special “nara” ink), and the difference between irezumi and normal tattoos
  • Yakuza removing a piece of their finger for dishonoring the group, failing at group objectives, or money-related issues
  • Damien tells a story of a “job” he was asked to participate in, where nothing too serious occurred, but it led him to start questioning his involvement with the group of Mr. S
  • The first signs that Damien started to notice that hinted at Mr. S being Yakuza
  • A comparison of Yakuza with gangs in other countries, and the businesses in which they are involved, in general and in Sapporo specifically
  • The ways that Yakuza have contributed to society, such as protection against petty crime and sending volunteers to areas affected by natural disasters, and the questions of their true motivation in doing such acts
  • The guys talk about their regular interaction with current or former Yakuza in their everyday lives

 Website:

http://podcast.voicesinjapan.com

Follow us and check out our other content:

https://twitter.com/voicesinjapan

https://www.facebook.com/voicesinjapan/

https://www.instagram.com/voicesinjapan/

Get in touch: 

voicesinjapan@gmail.com

Support the show

10 Jan 2024Japan’s Horendous Start to 202400:53:16

Ben, Burke, and Matt talk about the January 1st Earthquake in Ishikawa prefecture and the Japan Airlines crash at Haneda Airport the following day.

Sponsors:

MaruMori

This site has everything you need to learn Japanese! It’s an all-in-one, guided, gamified Japanese learning experience with the aim to take you all the way from absolute beginner to language mastery, and the best part is you can start anywhere! 

https://marumori.io/register?rcode=vij

Bearfoot Bar

Located in downtown Sapporo, walking distance from the subway station. There are  variety of Japanese made craft bottled beers. A wide range of regular and unique spirits and basic cocktails also available. Burgers and pub style snacks. With friendly English and Japanese speaking staff.  https://www.facebook.com/bearfootbar
 
The Red House 

Located in the heart of Rusutsu Ski Resort, just cross the main road and it’s behind the Seicomart Convenience store. The restaurant features a mix of Japanese, Asian fusion, and western Style dishes, including shabu-shabu with wagyu beef and Hokkaido wagyu beef steak. Open winter and summer, 12-3pm for lunch, 5-9pm for dinner, with prices ranging from under Yen 1000 to about Yen 5000. https://theredhouse.jp/


 Rusutsu Lodges

Open all year round. Located 5 minutes walk to the main Rusutsu Ski Resort Gondola. There are Japanese, Western, and apartment style rooms with breakfast packages available. There’s a Japanese sento (public bath), two convenience stores less than a minute walk, ski room and tune up tables, plenty of free parking space, and summer BBQ packages available. Check out the website for more information and availability. http://rusutsulodges.com


 Hokkaido Guide

Established over 10 years ago, written by locals for locals and international tourists. The guide contains information on all types of businesses and locations around Hokkaido. There's information regarding all things Hokkaido such as sightseeing, nightlife, events, services, food and restaurants, entertainment, outdoor activities, and more. Currently offered in English and Thai, advertising space available. Check out website for everything you need to know about this beautiful prefecture. https://hokkaidoguide.com


Use our Buzzsprout affiliate link to start your podcast today!
 
Website:

https://www.voicesinjapan.com/
Follow us and check out our other content:

https://youtube.com/@voicesinjapanpodcast

https://twitter.com/voicesinjapan

https://www.facebook.com/voicesinjapan/

https://www.instagram.com/voicesinjapan/

Get in touch: 

voicesinjapan@gmail.com

Support the show

24 Jan 2024Bad Influencers, Salarymen & Photo Taking in Japan00:34:43

During this episode, Ben and Matt talk about the latest news hitting Japan. This includes a look at bad influencers, airline troubles, finding a cheap lunch, salarymen plus a lot more! 

Sponsors:

MaruMori

This site has everything you need to learn Japanese! It’s an all-in-one, guided, gamified Japanese learning experience with the aim to take you all the way from absolute beginner to language mastery, and the best part is you can start anywhere!
https://marumori.io/register?rcode=vij

Bearfoot Bar

Located in downtown Sapporo and within walking distance from the subway station. They have a variety of Japanese made and international craft beers bottled and on tap. A wide range of regular and unique spirits and basic cocktails are also available. Burgers and pub style snacks and friendly English and Japanese speaking staff.
https://www.facebook.com/bearfootbar

The Red House 

Located in the heart of Rusutsu Ski Resort, just cross the main road and it’s behind the Seicomart Convenience store. The restaurant features a mix of Japanese, Asian fusion, and western Style dishes, including shabu-shabu with wagyu beef and Hokkaido wagyu beef steak. Open winter and summer, 12-3pm for lunch, 5-9pm for dinner, with prices ranging from under Yen 1000 to about Yen 5000.
https://theredhouse.jp/

Rusutsu Lodges

Open all year round. Located only a 5-minute walk away from the main Rusutsu Ski Resort Gondola. There are Japanese, Western, and apartment style rooms with breakfast packages available. There’s a Japanese sento (public bath), two convenience stores less than a minute walk, ski room and tune up tables, plenty of free parking space, and summer BBQ packages available. Check out the website for more information and availability.
http://rusutsulodges.com

Hokkaido Guide

Established over 10 years ago, written by locals for locals and international tourists. The guide contains information on all types of businesses and locations around Hokkaido. There's information regarding all things Hokkaido such as sightseeing, nightlife, events, services, food and restaurants, entertainment, outdoor activities, and more. Currently offered in English and Thai, advertising space available. Check out website for everything you need to know about this beautiful prefecture.
https://hokkaidoguide.com

Use our Buzzsprout affiliate link to start your podcast today!

Website: https://www.voicesinjapan.com/

Follow us and check out our other content:
https://youtube.com/@voicesinjapanpodcast
https://twitter.com/voicesinjapan
https://www.facebook.com/voicesinjapan/
https://www.instagram.com/voicesinjapan/

Get in touch:  voicesinjapan@gmail.com

Support the show

Support the show

31 Jan 2024What is Japanese Beauty?00:40:13

Listen to this episode ad free + exclusive episodes at https://www.patreon.com/voicesinjapan

Episode summary: A recent victory in the Miss Japan beauty pageant by Ukranian-born Carolina Shiino has many Japanese people very upset. Also, the movie "Oppenheimer" finally gets a release date (March 29) in Japan after internet memes with atomic bomb themes promoting the movie last year had severely offended locals in the country.

Sponsors:

MaruMori

This site has everything you need to learn Japanese! It’s an all-in-one, guided, gamified Japanese learning experience with the aim to take you all the way from absolute beginner to language mastery, and the best part is you can start anywhere!
https://marumori.io/register?rcode=vij

Bearfoot Bar

Located in downtown Sapporo and within walking distance from the subway station. They have a variety of Japanese made and international craft beers bottled and on tap. A wide range of regular and unique spirits and basic cocktails are also available. Burgers and pub style snacks and friendly English and Japanese speaking staff.
https://www.facebook.com/bearfootbar

The Red House 

Located in the heart of Rusutsu Ski Resort, just cross the main road and it’s behind the Seicomart Convenience store. The restaurant features a mix of Japanese, Asian fusion, and western Style dishes, including shabu-shabu with wagyu beef and Hokkaido wagyu beef steak. Open winter and summer, 12-3pm for lunch, 5-9pm for dinner, with prices ranging from under Yen 1000 to about Yen 5000.
https://theredhouse.jp/

Rusutsu Lodges

Open all year round. Located only a 5-minute walk away from the main Rusutsu Ski Resort Gondola. There are Japanese, Western, and apartment style rooms with breakfast packages available. There’s a Japanese sento (public bath), two convenience stores less than a minute walk, ski room and tune up tables, plenty of free parking space, and summer BBQ packages available. Check out the website for more information and availability.
http://rusutsulodges.com

Hokkaido Guide

Established over 10 years ago, written by locals for locals and international tourists. The guide contains information on all types of businesses and locations around Hokkaido. There's information regarding all things Hokkaido such as sightseeing, nightlife, events, services, food and restaurants, entertainment, outdoor activities, and more. Currently offered in English and Thai, advertising space available. Check out website for everything you need to know about this beautiful prefecture.
https://hokkaidoguide.com

Use our Buzzsprout affiliate link to start your podcast today!

Website: https://www.voicesinjapan.com/

Follow us and check out our other content:
https://youtube.com/@voicesinjapanpodcast
https://twitter.com/voicesinjapan
https://www.facebook.com/voicesinjapan/
https://www.instagram.com/voicesinjapan/

Get in touch:  voicesinjapan@gmail.com
Use the link below to support us with a PayPal donation! 

Support the show

07 Feb 2024Overtourism in Japan!00:33:05

Listen to this episode ad free + exclusive episodes at https://www.patreon.com/voicesinjapan

From the ski slopes of Hokkaido to climbing Mt. Fuji, Ben, Burke and Matt talk about overtourism in Japan plus other news that have made headlines! Burke and Matt relive their experiences climbing Mt. Fuji, and Ben talks about some shocking news. 


Sponsors:

MaruMori

This site has everything you need to learn Japanese! It’s an all-in-one, guided, gamified Japanese learning experience with the aim to take you all the way from absolute beginner to language mastery, and the best part is you can start anywhere!
https://marumori.io/register?rcode=vij

Bearfoot Bar

Located in downtown Sapporo and within walking distance from the subway station. They have a variety of Japanese made and international craft beers bottled and on tap. A wide range of regular and unique spirits and basic cocktails are also available. Burgers and pub style snacks and friendly English and Japanese speaking staff.
https://www.facebook.com/bearfootbar

The Red House 

Located in the heart of Rusutsu Ski Resort, just cross the main road and it’s behind the Seicomart Convenience store. The restaurant features a mix of Japanese, Asian fusion, and western Style dishes, including shabu-shabu with wagyu beef and Hokkaido wagyu beef steak. Open winter and summer, 12-3pm for lunch, 5-9pm for dinner, with prices ranging from under Yen 1000 to about Yen 5000.
https://theredhouse.jp/

Rusutsu Lodges

Open all year round. Located only a 5-minute walk away from the main Rusutsu Ski Resort Gondola. There are Japanese, Western, and apartment style rooms with breakfast packages available. There’s a Japanese sento (public bath), two convenience stores less than a minute walk, ski room and tune up tables, plenty of free parking space, and summer BBQ packages available. Check out the website for more information and availability.
http://rusutsulodges.com

Hokkaido Guide

Established over 10 years ago, written by locals for locals and international tourists. The guide contains information on all types of businesses and locations around Hokkaido. There's information regarding all things Hokkaido such as sightseeing, nightlife, events, services, food and restaurants, entertainment, outdoor activities, and more. Currently offered in English and Thai, advertising space available. Check out website for everything you need to know about this beautiful prefecture.
https://hokkaidoguide.com

Use our Buzzsprout affiliate link to start your podcast today!

Website: https://www.voicesinjapan.com/

Follow us and check out our other content:
https://youtube.com/@voicesinjapanpodcast
https://twitter.com/voicesinjapan
https://www.facebook.com/voicesinjapan/
https://www.instagram.com/voicesinjapan/

Get in touch:  voicesinjapan@gmail.com
Use the link below to support us with a PayPal donation! 

Support the show

Support the show

11 Feb 2024NEW BONUS EPISODE out now on Patreon!00:00:25

https://www.patreon.com/posts/bonus-episode-4-98129947?utm_medium=clipboard_copy&utm_source=copyLink&utm_campaign=postshare_creator&utm_content=join_link


Support the show

13 Feb 2024Kyoto Prices, Uniqlo Crime, and New Work Visas00:28:58

Listen to this episode ad free + exclusive episodes at https://www.patreon.com/voicesinjapan

Episode summary: Ben and Burke take a look at special pricing for tourists and residents that could be coming soon to Kyoto, a years-long Uniqlo crime spree committed by some foreigners here in Japan, anti-foreigner sentiment in the country, and changes to the technical intern visa program.

Sponsors:

MaruMori

This site has everything you need to learn Japanese! It’s an all-in-one, guided, gamified Japanese learning experience with the aim to take you all the way from absolute beginner to language mastery, and the best part is you can start anywhere!
https://marumori.io/register?rcode=vij

Bearfoot Bar

Located in downtown Sapporo and within walking distance from the subway station. They have a variety of Japanese made and international craft beers bottled and on tap. A wide range of regular and unique spirits and basic cocktails are also available. Burgers and pub style snacks and friendly English and Japanese speaking staff.
https://www.facebook.com/bearfootbar

The Red House 

Located in the heart of Rusutsu Ski Resort, just cross the main road and it’s behind the Seicomart Convenience store. The restaurant features a mix of Japanese, Asian fusion, and western Style dishes, including shabu-shabu with wagyu beef and Hokkaido wagyu beef steak. Open winter and summer, 12-3pm for lunch, 5-9pm for dinner, with prices ranging from under Yen 1000 to about Yen 5000.
https://theredhouse.jp/

Rusutsu Lodges

Open all year round. Located only a 5-minute walk away from the main Rusutsu Ski Resort Gondola. There are Japanese, Western, and apartment style rooms with breakfast packages available. There’s a Japanese sento (public bath), two convenience stores less than a minute walk, ski room and tune up tables, plenty of free parking space, and summer BBQ packages available. Check out the website for more information and availability.
http://rusutsulodges.com

Hokkaido Guide

Established over 10 years ago, written by locals for locals and international tourists. The guide contains information on all types of businesses and locations around Hokkaido. There's information regarding all things Hokkaido such as sightseeing, nightlife, events, services, food and restaurants, entertainment, outdoor activities, and more. Currently offered in English and Thai, advertising space available. Check out website for everything you need to know about this beautiful prefecture.
https://hokkaidoguide.com

Use our Buzzsprout affiliate link to start your podcast today!

Website: https://www.voicesinjapan.com/

Follow us and check out our other content:
https://youtube.com/@voicesinjapanpodcast
https://twitter.com/voicesinjapan
https://www.facebook.com/voicesinj

Support the show

25 Jul 2019How Affordable is Japanese Healthcare?00:46:03

Japan ranked 7th in the Bloomberg Health Care Efficiency Index in 2018. This index sought to rank countries that provided the most cost efficient medical care. Ben’s home country, the U.K., ranked 35th, whereas Burke’s, the U.S., was in 50th place. (Fees in Japan are controlled and set every two years based on negotiations between the Ministry of Health and JMA - the organization representing physicians.) This episode provides lots of information that most of you will find useful. Enjoy the show!

Support the podcast by making a donation.

Conversation Highlights:

  • There are two main types of health insurance, employer and national, with monthly premiums being approximately 5% of your income.
  • Most people do not have their own general practitioner in Japan, and it is therefore up to the patient to find a doctor or specialist for their specific illness/injury, which can be quite stressful.
  • Due to the very affordable cost of medical services, many Japanese people take advantage and use them for minor conditions, which is one of the reasons for the national health system becoming unsustainable.
  • Burke shares an experience of being in an ambulance.
  • call 110 for police emergencies.
  • 119 for ambulance/fire.
  • Emergency number for foreigners #7119 in Hokkaido (CAUTION: has not been tried!)
  • Ben shares his experience of going to the hospital because he thought he had the flu.
  • Flu shots/injections are common in Japan, but the shots are only effective for specific strains, so it is still possible to catch the flu after receiving a shot.
  • People are admitted to hospitals longer than usually required
  • The hospital food for inpatients is very healthy, nutritionally balanced and delicious.
  • Hospitals have to compete for business with some offering special services/perks such as massages and beauty therapy for women, or candle lit dinners for couples after giving birth.
  • For childbirth, the government distributes an allowance of approximately $4,000 dollars, so depending on the hospital, it is even possible to receive money back.
  • There is also a private supplementary health insurance option (approx. 2,000 yen a month for a person in his or her early 40s) which covers more procedures and reduces costs.
  • When people turn 40, everyone has to pay nursing/home care (Kaigo) insurance which is 2% of income.
  • Special life insurance is required when applying for bank loans to purchase a house or apartment.
  • When Burke first came to Japan, a language school he worked for put him on travel insurance, which can be considered illegal.
  • Although it is mandatory for everyone who resides in Japan for over three months to be enrolled in the health insurance system, it is said that approx. 10% of the population is not enrolled.
  • People who have not paid health insurance will be subject to a penalty of two to three years of back payments.
  • Japan has poor standards when it comes to healthcare for mental health issues.

Website:

http://podcast.voicesinjapan.com

Follow us and check out our other content:

https://twitter.com/voicesinjapan

https://www.facebook.com/voicesinjapan/

Support the show

18 Feb 2024NEW BONUS EPISODE out now on Patreon!00:00:38

https://www.patreon.com/posts/bonus-episode-of-98632001?utm_medium=clipboard_copy&utm_source=copyLink&utm_campaign=postshare_creator&utm_content=join_link

Support the show

20 Feb 2024Poo Sakura at the Unko Museum in Tokyo00:34:08

Listen to this episode ad free + exclusive episodes at https://www.patreon.com/voicesinjapan

With the Sakura season just around the corner, Ben, Burke, and Matt talk about the Unko Museum’s cherry blossom festival in Tokyo. 

Other news the guys discuss is Asahi Breweries announcing that they will no longer launch chuhai (Canned fizzy cocktails) with alcohol content of 8% or higher.

Sponsors:

MaruMori

This site has everything you need to learn Japanese! It’s an all-in-one, guided, gamified Japanese learning experience with the aim to take you all the way from absolute beginner to language mastery, and the best part is you can start anywhere! https://marumori.io/register?rcode=vij


Bearfoot Bar

Located in downtown Sapporo, walking distance from the subway station. There are a variety of Japanese made local and craft beers, bottled and on tap. 21 different sorts of international beers. A wide range of regular and unique spirits and basic cocktails also available. Burgers and pub style snacks. With friendly English and Japanese speaking staff.  https://www.facebook.com/bearfootbar


The Red House 

Located in the heart of Rusutsu Ski Resort, just cross the main road and it’s behind the Seicomart Convenience store. The restaurant features a mix of Japanese, Asian fusion, and western Style dishes, including shabu-shabu with wagyu beef and Hokkaido wagyu beef steak. Open winter and summer, 12-3pm for lunch, 5-9pm for dinner, with prices ranging from under Yen 1000 to about Yen 5000. https://theredhouse.jp/


Rusutsu Lodges

Open all year round. Located 5 minutes walk to the main Rusutsu Ski Resort Gondola. There are Japanese, Western, and apartment style rooms with breakfast packages available. There’s a Japanese sento (public bath), two convenience stores less than a minute walk, ski room and tune up tables, plenty of free parking space, and summer BBQ packages available. Check out the website for more information and availability. http://rusutsulodges.com


Hokkaido Guide

Established over 10 years ago, written by locals for locals and international tourists. The guide contains information on all types of businesses and locations around Hokkaido. There's information regarding all things Hokkaido such as sightseeing, nightlife, events, services, food and restaurants, entertainment, outdoor activities, and more. Currently offered in English and Thai, advertising space available. Check out website for everything you need to know about this beautiful prefecture. https://hokkaidoguide.com


Use our Buzzsprout affiliate link to start your podcast today!
 
Website:

https://www.voicesinjapan.com/
Follow us and check out our other content:

https://youtube.com/@voicesinjapanpodcast

https://twitter.com/voicesinjapan

https://www.facebook.com/voicesinjapan/

https://www.instagram.com/voicesinjapan/

Get in touch: 

voicesinjapan@gmail.com



Support the show

25 Feb 2024NEW BONUS EPISODE out now on Patreon!00:01:01

https://www.patreon.com/posts/bonus-episode-99148616?utm_medium=clipboard_copy&utm_source=copyLink&utm_campaign=postshare_creator&utm_content=join_link


Support the show

28 Feb 2024Japanese Foods for a Good Life00:48:12

Listen to this episode ad free + exclusive episodes at https://www.patreon.com/voicesinjapan

Ben, Matt, and Burke discuss the Japanese foods they've grown fond of since moving to the country, the Japanese foods they eat regularly, and the foods they refuse to try or dislike! Matt also talks about his luxury sushi experience and the fancy knives used by sushi chefs. This episode was recorded in response to a Patreon member's request. If you'd like to request certain content, please do so by joining our Patreon account, too!

Sponsors:

Bearfoot Bar
Located in downtown Sapporo and within walking distance from the subway station. They have a variety of Japanese made and international craft beers bottled and on tap. A wide range of regular and unique spirits and basic cocktails are also available. Burgers and pub style snacks and friendly English and Japanese speaking staff.
https://www.facebook.com/bearfootbar

The Red House
Located in the heart of Rusutsu Ski Resort, just cross the main road and it’s behind the Seicomart Convenience store. The restaurant features a mix of Japanese, Asian fusion, and western Style dishes, including shabu-shabu with wagyu beef and Hokkaido wagyu beef steak. Open winter and summer, 12-3pm for lunch, 5-9pm for dinner, with prices ranging from under Yen 1000 to about Yen 5000.
https://theredhouse.jp/

Rusutsu Lodges
Open all year round. Located only a 5-minute walk away from the main Rusutsu Ski Resort Gondola. There are Japanese, Western, and apartment style rooms with breakfast packages available. There’s a Japanese sento (public bath), two convenience stores less than a minute walk, ski room and tune up tables, plenty of free parking space, and summer BBQ packages available. Check out the website for more information and availability.
http://rusutsulodges.com

Hokkaido Guide
Established over 10 years ago, written by locals for locals and international tourists. The guide contains information on all types of businesses and locations around Hokkaido. There's information regarding all things Hokkaido such as sightseeing, nightlife, events, services, food and restaurants, entertainment, outdoor activities, and more. Currently offered in English and Thai, advertising space available. Check out website for everything you need to know about this beautiful prefecture.
https://hokkaidoguide.com

Use our Buzzsprout affiliate link to start your podcast today!

Website: https://www.voicesinjapan.com/

Follow us and check out our other content:
https://youtube.com/@voicesinjapanpodcast
https://twitter.com/voicesinjapan
https://www.facebook.com/voicesinj

Support the show

05 Mar 202411 Facts You Probably Didn’t Know About Tattoos in Japan00:44:48

Listen to this episode ad-free and exclusive content at https://www.patreon.com/voicesinjapan

In this episode, Ben, Burke and Matt talk about some interesting facts about tattoos in Japan, such as the thousand year history, the cultural significance in Hokkaido and Okinawa, association with the criminals and much much more.

Sponsors:

MaruMori

This site has everything you need to learn Japanese! It’s an all-in-one, guided, gamified Japanese learning experience with the aim to take you all the way from absolute beginner to language mastery, and the best part is you can start anywhere!  https://marumori.io/register?rcode=vij


Bearfoot Bar

Located in downtown Sapporo, walking distance from the subway station. There are a variety of Japanese made local and craft beers, bottled and on tap. 21 different sorts of international beers. A wide range of regular and unique spirits and basic cocktails also available. Burgers and pub style snacks. With friendly English and Japanese speaking staff.  https://www.facebook.com/bearfootbar


The Red House 

Located in the heart of Rusutsu Ski Resort, just cross the main road and it’s behind the Seicomart Convenience store. The restaurant features a mix of Japanese, Asian fusion, and western Style dishes, including shabu-shabu with wagyu beef and Hokkaido wagyu beef steak. Open winter and summer, 12-3pm for lunch, 5-9pm for dinner, with prices ranging from under Yen 1000 to about Yen 5000. https://theredhouse.jp/


Rusutsu Lodges

Open all year round. Located 5 minutes walk to the main Rusutsu Ski Resort Gondola. There are Japanese, Western, and apartment style rooms with breakfast packages available. There’s a Japanese sento (public bath), two convenience stores less than a minute walk, ski room and tune up tables, plenty of free parking space, and summer BBQ packages available. Check out the website for more information and availability. http://rusutsulodges.com


Hokkaido Guide

Established over 10 years ago, written by locals for locals and international tourists. The guide contains information on all types of businesses and locations around Hokkaido. There's information regarding all things Hokkaido such as sightseeing, nightlife, events, services, food and restaurants, entertainment, outdoor activities, and more. Currently offered in English and Thai, advertising space available. Check out website for everything you need to know about this beautiful prefecture. https://hokkaidoguide.com


Use our Buzzsprout affiliate link to start your podcast today!
 
Website:

https://www.voicesinjapan.com/
Follow us and check out our other content:

https://youtube.com/@voicesinjapanpodcast

https://twitter.com/voicesinjapan

https://www.facebook.com/voicesinjapan/

https://www.instagram.com/voicesinjapan/

Get in touch: 

voicesinjapan@gmail.com

Support the show

13 Mar 2024Do Japanese People Hate Traveling?00:48:58

Listen to this episode ad-free and exclusive content at https://www.patreon.com/voicesinjapan

Ben and Burke explore the reasons for why Japanese people become very stressed on airplanes and why less Japanese people are traveling overseas these days. They also review the success that a few Japan-related films achieved this week at the Academy Awards, the ongoing conflict in Japan with the movie Oppenheimer, and the recent passing of the creator of the world-famous Dragon Ball manga, anime, and film series, Akira Toriyama.

Sponsors:

Bearfoot Bar
Located in downtown Sapporo and within walking distance from the subway station. They have a variety of Japanese made and international craft beers bottled and on tap. A wide range of regular and unique spirits and basic cocktails are also available. Burgers and pub style snacks and friendly English and Japanese speaking staff.
https://www.facebook.com/bearfootbar

The Red House
Located in the heart of Rusutsu Ski Resort, just cross the main road and it’s behind the Seicomart Convenience store. The restaurant features a mix of Japanese, Asian fusion, and western Style dishes, including shabu-shabu with wagyu beef and Hokkaido wagyu beef steak. Open winter and summer, 12-3pm for lunch, 5-9pm for dinner, with prices ranging from under Yen 1000 to about Yen 5000.
https://theredhouse.jp/

Rusutsu Lodges
Open all year round. Located only a 5-minute walk away from the main Rusutsu Ski Resort Gondola. There are Japanese, Western, and apartment style rooms with breakfast packages available. There’s a Japanese sento (public bath), two convenience stores less than a minute walk, ski room and tune up tables, plenty of free parking space, and summer BBQ packages available. Check out the website for more information and availability.
http://rusutsulodges.com

Hokkaido Guide
Established over 10 years ago, written by locals for locals and international tourists. The guide contains information on all types of businesses and locations around Hokkaido. There's information regarding all things Hokkaido such as sightseeing, nightlife, events, services, food and restaurants, entertainment, outdoor activities, and more. Currently offered in English and Thai, advertising space available. Check out website for everything you need to know about this beautiful prefecture.
https://hokkaidoguide.com

Use our Buzzsprout affiliate link to start your podcast today!

Website: https://www.voicesinjapan.com/

Follow us and check out our other content:
https://youtube.com/@voicesinjapanpodcast
https://twitter.com/voicesinjapan
https://www.facebook.com/voicesinj

Support the show

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