What’s it like to commute and work in Japan? In this episode, I share real experiences from my time as an office worker and explore typical work culture. From crowded trains and door-to-door commute times to working hours, lunch breaks, and the difference between “black” and “white” companies. You’ll also learn key Japanese phrases and cultural tips along the way!

🎧 Full transcript, video, and more: https://sayurisaying.com

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Today, I tried the “50 Questions in 5 Seconds” challenge! 🇯🇵

These are common questions in everyday Japanese conversation. Try answering with me and practice thinking in Japanese ✨

Special thanks to YUYU for creating this challenge!

You can watch the original video here:

https://youtu.be/jDhXDMu4FMs?si=4Grzxmb2CHySrtpE

We also talk about fillers like “えっと” and natural pauses to sound more natural.

Let’s build speaking confidence together 🌿🐧

🎧 Full transcript, video, and more: https://sayurisaying.com

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I recently walked the Kumano Kodo, one of Japan’s oldest pilgrimage routes and a UNESCO World Heritage site. In this episode, I share stories about its history, the three sacred Kumano shrines, and the mysterious three-legged crow, Yatagarasu. Walking through its quiet mountain paths made me reflect on how journeys like this can refresh both body and mind. It truly was more than a hike.

🎧 Full transcript, video, and more: https://sayurisaying.com

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The Ig Nobel Prize celebrates research that’s both hilarious and deeply insightful. For 19 consecutive years, Japanese scientists have captured the world’s attention with inventive studies like painting cows with zebra stripes to repel bugs, using wasabi as a fire alarm, and proving that kissing can ease allergy symptoms. Join us to explore how curiosity and humor keep science wonderfully human!

🎧 Full transcript, video, and more: https://sayurisaying.com

Search by episode number (e.g., “EP 120”) to find what you need!🐧 Join the Penguin Family for bonus content & support the show! Your support helps keep this podcast alive and means a lot to me. Thank you for considering!

Autumn in Japan is full of charm☺️ Fresh fruits, cozy evenings, colorful leaves, and perfect weather for hiking. In this episode, I talk about the moments that make me feel, “Ah, autumn has come.” You’ll hear natural Japanese expressions about seasonal foods, outdoor activities, and reading time.

🎧 Full transcript, video, and more: https://sayurisaying.com

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I invited YUYU to talk with me about how we celebrate birthdays. He explained Mexican traditions where the birthday person brings cake to share, and how parties are almost a must. I shared my own recent birthdays spent alone, from traveling to quiet reflection. We also talked about family memories, including YUYU’s wish to thank his parents on his birthday. Together we explore how birthdays can be about parties, gratitude, or simply enjoying life at your own pace.

🎧 Full transcript, video, and more: https://sayurisaying.com

Search by episode number (e.g., “EP 120”) to find what you need!🐧 Join the Penguin Family for bonus content & support the show! Your support helps keep this podcast alive and means a lot to me. Thank you for considering!

I invited YUYU to talk with me about competition and motivation. He told me stories from his childhood, playing baseball, and why he finally quit swimming. As a coach, he realized that sports can be fun without rivalry. Together we discussed how competition gives energy but can also create pressure, and how curiosity or personal goals can be just as powerful. This talk made me reflect on my own way of finding motivation.

🎧 Full transcript, video, and more: https://sayurisaying.com

Search by episode number (e.g., “EP 120”) to find what you need!🐧 Join the Penguin Family for bonus content & support the show! Your support helps keep this podcast alive and means a lot to me. Thank you for considering!

In this episode, we sit down with YUYU to explore cashless culture and money mindsets in Japan and Mexico. From credit vs. debit cards to QR code payments, we discuss how people pay in daily life and why attitudes toward debt, saving, and responsibility differ across cultures.

We also share personal stories about growing up with certain money values and how they shape spending habits today. A fun, insightful episode for Japanese learners interested in culture beyond the classroom!

🎧 Full transcript, video, and more: https://sayurisaying.com

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In this episode, I talk about three unique coffee characters I met in Osaka. First, a “Coffee Doctor” who keeps detailed “bean records” for customers, just like a clinic. Second, a lively “Osaka Mom” clerk who gave me advice and free coffee at Yodobashi Camera.

Finally, a kind “Coffee Sage,” an elderly roaster who offered generous service at unbelievably low prices. These encounters show how human connection makes Japan’s coffee culture so special.

🎧 Full transcript, video, and more: https://sayurisaying.com

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In this podcast episode, I talk about “Mental Health Care That Really Worked for Me. I wasn’t feeling great...

Japan’s humid summer kept me inside, inactive, and moody. So I tried five simple routines: morning walks, deep cleaning, swimming, chatting with people, and keeping a sketch diary. These small changes really helped my mood, sleep, and energy. I also share a few cultural insights about life in Japan. Like elementary school swimming classes, sketch diaries, and school trips to Kyoto and Nara. Tune in for practical wellness tips and a peek into Japanese daily life!

🎧 Full transcript, video, and more: https://sayurisaying.com

Search by episode number (e.g., “EP 120”) to find what you need!🐧 Join the Penguin Family for bonus content & support the show! Your support helps keep this podcast alive and means a lot to me. Thank you for considering!