Episode 10 is all about one of Japan's most creative and important fashion brands: Comme des Garcons. The genius behind the brand is Rei Kawakubo, and her creations force us to think about deep philosophical questions. We also discuss Harajuku, Yohji Yamamoto, and Sushi.

Dover Street Market Ginza:

https://maps.app.goo.gl/CNQ3uKoCmHFZWe8p6

Ikina Sushi Dokoro Abe Aoyama:

https://maps.app.goo.gl/KcDuKqZKD4hw7MCo7

My Twitter:

https://twitter.com/JapanMediaTour

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCL_XbCjaodWzdrCNnOKA5vg

In episode 9 we analyze one of the most creative and influential horror movies of the last 30 years. Kuniyoshi Kurosawa's 1997 film Cure forces us to question the nature of our reality and to debate between fate and free will. We also discuss hikikomori, izakaya, and hypnosis.

Andy's Shin Hinomoto:

https://maps.app.goo.gl/B2SDNyJFj1MNaNWb9

My Twitter:

https://twitter.com/JapanMediaTour

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCL_XbCjaodWzdrCNnOKA5vg

This week we take a pilgrimage to the Edo Era to talk about the most famous haiku poet of all time, Matsuo Basho. Through his teachings we can learn to appreciate nature, and to leave the superficial behind in favour of all that is peaceful and natural in this world. We also discuss cherry blossoms, rap music, and ukiyo-e.

Risshaku-ji Temple:

https://maps.app.goo.gl/ry4byKCxYha5Jes8A

My Twitter:

https://twitter.com/JapanMediaTour

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCL_XbCjaodWzdrCNnOKA5vg

In episode 7 we revisit my childhood to talk about The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past. This game, like the Zelda series in general was absolutely groundbreaking in terms of the scale and scope of the map and the storytelling. We also discuss Christianity, Shigeru Miyamoto, and The Lord of the Rings.

Super Potato Akihabara:

https://maps.app.goo.gl/vGJVtCCk4QaPzs4SA

My Twitter:

https://twitter.com/JapanMediaTour

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCL_XbCjaodWzdrCNnOKA5vg

In episode 6 we dig into the history of Kansai's beloved Hanshin Tigers baseball club. Learning about this team can teach us a lot about Japanese history and culture. We also go deep on the infamous Curse of the Colonel, and talk about some Osaka cuisine you just can't miss!

Koshien Stadium:

https://maps.app.goo.gl/qKuMauT2nX4LwgKU9

Abaraya:

https://maps.app.goo.gl/f9T6UU7RixYV8u1s8

My Twitter:

https://twitter.com/JapanMediaTour

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCL_XbCjaodWzdrCNnOKA5vg

In episode 5 we analyze Yasujiro Ozu's legendary 1953 film Tokyo Story. We discuss intergenerational conflict, postwar Japan, minimalism, and family dynamics. This movie has definitely earned a spot in my top 10 Japanese films of all time. We also chat about stray cats, hot springs, and quaint cafés.

Mionomichi Cafe:

https://maps.app.goo.gl/QFEgt7Z4avAxgQXx7

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YouTube:

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In episode 4 we head to Northern Japan. The year is 1995 and a band called Supercar is just getting started. Supercar is known for their brand of super melodic rock, and their experimentation with synths and electronic music. We also talk convenience stores, baseball, pizza, and bars.

Pop Pizza:

https://maps.app.goo.gl/W1g3x7Q1QgLs6USK6

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCL_XbCjaodWzdrCNnOKA5vg

In episode 3 we travel back to the Edo Period to find out why The Great Wave Off Kanagawa is worth the hype. We look at how Hokusai changed both Japanese and Western art and culture forever. Other topics include natural disasters, foreign invaders, manga, and ghost stories.

PS: I said Kohada Keiji, but the skeleton ghost is actually called Kohada Koheiji.

Sumida Hokusai Museum:

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In episode 2 we help Ness defend the world from an alien invasion in the cult classic video game Earthbound, also known as Mother 2. The game is an emotional rollercoaster with a pretty shocking finale. We also talk New Years, burgers, The Simpsons, and Salvador Dali.

Handsome Burger Nagoya:

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SPOILER WARNING. The inaugural episode takes a look at the visually striking 1973 film Lady Snowblood, in which a young woman seeks vengeance for her mother. We also talk bears, Tarantino, Bakeries, and the Meiji Restoration. A lot of major plot points are discussed, so check out the film if you haven't already.

Maruki Bakery:

https://maps.app.goo.gl/Vroxkzzy3YACcFte7

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https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCL_XbCjaodWzdrCNnOKA5vg