The ume is a fruit commonly referred to in English as the “Japanese plum”. Join Jason and Paul as they discuss its cultural significance and the many ways that this fruit is enjoyed in Japan!Topics Covered:HistoryUme FlowersUmeboshiUmeshuOther UsesJoin our Discord community!Become a member on Patreon!

117. Ume (The Japanese Plum)

Welcome to Sightseeing Japan! Join hosts Jason Nieling and Paul Bresin as they explore the land of the rising sun. New podcast episodes are released every other week covering a range of topics, from geisha to vending machines and everything in between.

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Philosophy

Places & Travel

Join Jason and Paul as they discuss various announcements and current events! Topics Covered: Season 5 Start Date Patreon Itinerary Store Podcast Meetup 2024: Nov 6th, 2024 at 7:00pm at Commune on the rooftop of the Shibuya Parco shopping mall in Tokyo. Take the elevator to the 9th floor and then take the escalator to the roof. Tourist Ban in Gion Shohei Ohtani Join our Discord community! Become a member on Patreon!

Announcements and Current Events

Akihabara is a unique district in Tokyo, renowned for its many electronics stores and its status as a mecca for otaku culture enthusiasts. Join Jason and Paul as they explore the vibrant streets of Tokyo's iconic "electric town"! Topics Covered: History Electronics (e.g. Yodobashi Akiba, BicCamera AKIBA) Arcades (e.g. Namco Akihabara) Anime Shops (e.g. Akihabara Kotobukiya, Mandarake) Computer Shops (e.g. Tsukumo PC Honten) Maid Cafes (e.g. Maidreamin) Akihabara Dear Stage Little TGV Akihabara Gachapon Hall 2k540 Aki-Oka Artisan Yusha Kobo Keyboard Specialty Shop Komaki Shokudo Bars (Game Bar A-Button, Beer Pong Bar Grove, Hitachino Brewing Lab, Low-Non-Bar) Weird Vending Machine Corner Karaoke Join our Discord community! Become a member on Patreon!

130. Akihabara

Tokyo has all sorts of attractions to offer, but venturing outside the bustling city for a day trip can unveil another side of Japan. Join Jason and Paul as they explore the many diverse experiences that can be had just beyond Tokyo’s borders!Topics Covered:Kamakura and Enoshima (Ep72)Kawagoe (Ep46)Nikko (Ep80)Mt. Fuji (Ep10, also mentioned Arakurayama Sengen Park)Amusement Parks (Ep 94)Mt. Takao (Ep 119)UtsunomiyaHakoneOdawaraOmiyaYokohamaChibaShizuokaJoin our Discord community!Become a member on Patreon!

129. Day Trips from Tokyo

Mental health issues are part of the human experience, and Japan is not immune to the complexities and struggles that individuals face. Join Jason and Paul as they delve into some of the mental health concerns and social challenges that have gained attention in modern Japan.Topics Covered:HistorySuicideKaroshiHikikomoriKodokushiGomi YashikiJoin our Discord community!Become a member on Patreon!

128. Mental Health

Sapporo, the capital of Hokkaido, is considered by many to be the most attractive city in Japan. As one of the snowiest cities in the world, it is also home to an extremely popular snow festival. Join Jason and Paul as they explore the many things to see and do in Sapporo!Topics Covered:HistoryCentral: Kani Honke — Sapporo Clock Tower — Odori Park — Tanukikoji Shopping Street — Nijo Market — Susukino — Ganso Ramen Yokocho — Sapporo Factory — Sapporo Beer Museum/Beer GardenNortheast: Moerenuma ParkSouthwest: Mount MoiwaNorthwest: Sapporo Crab Market — Shiroi Koibito Park — Sapporo Tiene Ski ResortSoutheast: Historical Village of Hokkaido — Hokkaido MuseumDay Trips: Otaru — JozankeiFestivals: Snow Festival — Lilac Festival — Yosakoi Soran Festival — Autumn Festival — Christmas MarketJoin our Discord community!Become a member on Patreon!

117. Ume (The Japanese Plum)

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