Welcome to Episode 81!

🔴 A hilarious encounter at a convenience store in Yokohama.
🔴 Nagoya makes headlines: an unexploded WWII bomb found!
🔴 Exploring the birthplace of bullet trains—an engineering marvel.
🔴 Japan’s quirky mannequins that will have you doing double-takes.
🔴 Delicious platform treats you must try when riding Japan’s bullet trains.
🔴 The oddest burger yet at Burger King Japan. Would you try it?
🔴 Nagoya’s café culture: cozy spots you shouldn’t miss.
🔴 Word of the Day: Stay tuned to learn a fun Japanese word!
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Podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/ohazassu-podcast--5905520
X (Twitter): https://x.com/OhazassuPodcast

🔴 Freelancer Protection Act in Japan
A major update for freelancers in Japan! I discuss the new Freelancer Protection Act that came into effect on November 1, 2024, and how it aims to support independent workers.

👇 Links 👇
Atsuro's YouTube video summary: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LQcddoOAt0c

Official PDF Summary (Japan Ministry of Health, Labor, Welfare): https://www.mhlw.go.jp/content/001261528.pdf

Official Info Website (Japan Fair Trade Commission): https://www.jftc.go.jp/freelancelaw_2024/index.html

🔴 School Turned Aquarium in Kochi
Hear about a unique transformation: an old school in Kochi Prefecture now thriving as an aquarium, drawing over 30,000 visitors in just three months!

🔴 Travel Highlights: Yokohama and Odawara
- Breathtaking views from Landmark Tower’s observation deck.
- Insights from attending the Universal Kimono Awards 2024.
- Travel tip: Don’t get caught out in reserved train seats!

🔴 My Joy from Learning Japanese
A heartfelt reflection on how learning Japanese has enriched my life in unexpected and deeply moving ways.

🔴 Bargain Finds: Muji Notebooks
I scored my favorite Muji notebooks at half price! Tune in for tips on spotting great deals—you never know when you’ll find a gem.

🔴 Winter Sweet Potato Hack
Stay warm and satisfied this winter with my delicious sweet potato (satsumaimo) hack! A simple method to make your winter treats truly delightful - and easy!

🔴 End-of-Year Trash Collection Reminder
Don’t get caught out! Check your local schedules for final rubbish/trash collection dates as the year wraps up!

🔴 Word of the Day

== Join the Conversation! ==

Have you visited the Kochi aquarium or Landmark Tower? Got any great winter food hacks? Share your thoughts—I’d love to hear from you! Drop a comment below or get in touch on our socials.

== Follow & Subscribe ==

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Ohazassu
Podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/ohazassu-podcast--5905520
X (Twitter): https://x.com/OhazassuPodcast

🍁☕ Ep. 79 - Magical Fall Colors, Sumo Coffee, Family Support



In This Episode:

🟢 Korankei: A Magical Fall Destination
Discover Korankei, a breathtaking spot in Aichi Prefecture known for its vibrant fall colors. I share highlights from my visit, including Sanshu Asuke Yashiki, a historic village brimming with antiques, arts and crafts. Perfect for an exciting autumn day trip!

🔵 Sumo Coffee from Hokkaido
Coffee lovers, meet Sumo Coffee! Actually, it's not really called that - it's just what I've nicknamed it! It's from a place in Hakodate, Hokkaido, called Select Coffee Shop 'peacepiece.'This unique brew from Hokkaido not only tastes great but also features a striking (and funny) sumo wrestler on its packaging.

🟡 Mystery Thief at a Kindergarten
In Fukuoka, shoes mysteriously disappeared from a kindergarten. Thanks to a security camera, the sneaky culprit was revealed. Listen in for the unexpected twist to this funny story!

🟠 Relocating to Japan: Aging and Family Support
I discuss the realities of supporting a partner and their parents overseas, and navigating some of the life changes that can potentially come with international relationships - but it's not all bad news - a friend is retiring and moving here while keeping a positive mindset.

🔴 Word of the Day
I hope today's Word of the Day reaches you! The delivery network is experiencing some delays!👀

Shout-out to Tracy at Weekly Fascination with Japan insights at https://www.youtube.com/@weeklyfascination
Shout-out to Dave at https://www.youtube.com/@uncleweed



== Join the Conversation! ==

Have a favorite coffee in Japan? Want to share an awesome fall colours location? Share them! I’d love to hear from you!

== Follow & Subscribe ==

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Ohazassu
Podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/ohazassu-podcast--5905520
X (Twitter): https://x.com/OhazassuPodcast

In This Episode:

🟢 Outdoor Japan Magazine
Discover an incredibly useful Japan outdoor magazine! I share where you can grab your free copy, packed with tips for enjoying the great outdoors in Japan.

🔵 Congrats, Tony!
A big shoutout to Tony for completing his epic 900 km walk across Japan over the past two years!

🟡 My Recent Purchases 😀
- Dymo Label Embossing Machine: A handy (and nostalgic) tool for labeling and organizing.

- DJI OSMO Mobile 6 Gimbal: This new gadget is a game-changer for phone stabilization, and I’m excited to restart live streaming with it!

- Souvenir Idea: JR Station Name Lens Cloths
Looking for a unique gift idea? JR station name lens cleaning cloths make for practical and memorable souvenirs.

🟠Christmas Trees Around the City
The holiday season has arrived! I talk about the beautiful Christmas trees popping up across the city and the festive vibes they bring.

🔴 Word of the Day
Today’s Word of the Day - it'll move you!!

== Join the Conversation! ==

Have a favorite info magazine or website in Japan or a unique souvenir idea? Share your thoughts with me—I’d love to hear from you!

== Follow & Subscribe ==

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Ohazassu
Podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/ohazassu-podcast--5905520
X (Twitter): https://x.com/OhazassuPodcast

In This Episode:

1. Introduction to Japan Safe Travel on X
If you’re traveling or living in Japan, Japan Safe Travel is an account to follow on X. They provide real-time updates in English on train outages, earthquakes, weather alerts, and more. I’ll share how this account can be a lifesaver for anyone needing reliable updates in English.

2. Thinking and Dreaming in Another Language
Ever caught yourself dreaming in another language? I continue my book review and dive into the fascinating experience of thinking and dreaming in Japanese. Language learners, this one’s for you!

3. The Different Thicknesses of Sliced Bread in Japan
Bread is a whole experience in Japan, from fluffy texture to unique thickness options! I discuss the various bread slice thicknesses you can choose from at Japanese bakeries, and why these options might surprise you.

4. Nagoya City’s Planetarium
Did you know Nagoya has the world’s largest planetarium? I give you the scoop on this must-see spot, perfect for anyone curious about astronomy, with insights into why it’s such a popular destination.

5. Poop and Poop-Related Toys in Japan
Japan has a quirky side, and poop-themed toys are a hilarious example. I talk about some of the poop-related toys and products you’ll find here, shedding light on how Japan makes even toilet humor fun and educational!

6. Word of the Day
Today’s Word of the Day - you never know when you might need this one!

Join the Conversation!
Which thickness of bread do you buy? Have you got any gacha/capsule toys? Drop a comment below or post to us on X!

Follow & Subscribe

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Ohazassu
Podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/ohazassu-podcast--5905520
X (Twitter): https://x.com/OhazassuPodcast

In This Episode:

1. Three Great Japanese Language Learning Books
Looking for effective tools to boost your Japanese learning? I’m sharing three of my favorite Japanese language learning books that have helped me along the way. Whether you're a beginner or looking to level up, these books are a must-read for language learners.

2. Addictive Japanese Netflix Series
I’ve been hooked on a recent Japanese Netflix series, and I’m here to recommend it! Tune in to find out what it is, why it’s so addictive, and how it can even help with language learning. Perfect for your next binge-watch!

3. Biopsy Results & Importance of Colonoscopy
On a more serious note, I recently received my biopsy results, and I’m sharing my thoughts on the process and the importance of getting regular colonoscopies. It’s a crucial step in maintaining health, and I encourage everyone to stay informed and proactive.

4. Word of the Day
Today’s Word of the Day includes a free word! These words usually go hand in hand and are quite important!

Join the Conversation!
Got any Japanese language book or Netflix series recommendations? I’d love to hear them! Post to us on X or drop a comment below our YouTube video!

Follow & Subscribe

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Ohazassu
Podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/ohazassu-podcast--5905520
X (Twitter): https://x.com/OhazassuPodcast

In This Episode:

1. Cheap Ways to Call Overseas from Japan
Need to make international calls without breaking the bank? In this segment, I share some of the best, budget-friendly ways to call overseas from Japan, including apps, services, and other clever solutions to stay in touch with loved ones abroad.

2. The Convenience of Kanji Characters in Japanese
Kanji may seem tricky, but they’re also incredibly efficient! I dive into the convenience of kanji characters in daily life, showing how a single symbol can communicate so much, especially compared to long strings of letters in other languages. This is one of the unique strengths of the Japanese writing system!

3. Are There More Stairs in Japan?
Ever notice how many stairs there are in Japan? From train stations to temples, it seems like they’re everywhere. Today, I explore whether Japan really has more stairs compared to other countries, and why stairs are such a prominent feature in the urban and cultural landscape.

4. Word of the Day
Today’s Word of the Day, how to use it, and why it’s a helpful word to know in your Japanese language journey.

Join the Conversation!
Got any tips for cheap calls or more handy kanji abbreviations? I’d love to hear them! Drop a comment below or post to us on X.

Follow & Subscribe

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Ohazassu
Podcast Platform: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/ohazassu-podcast--5905520
X (Twitter): https://x.com/OhazassuPodcast

In This Episode:

1. Shoutout to Dave!
A huge shoutout to Dave for helping us set up the RSS URL for our YouTube podcast playlist. His expertise saved us a ton of time and got things running smoothly. Thanks, Dave, for the assist!

2. Inflation in Japan
Even the cheapest snacks for kids are feeling the pinch! I talk about the recent price hikes in Japan, including a favorite affordable snack that’s risen by a huge percentage!

3. Money-Saving Hacks for Furniture in Japan
Looking to furnish your home or office without breaking the bank? I share some awesome hacks for saving a ton of money on furniture in Japan, including secondhand stores and more ways to get the most value for your yen.

4. Convenient Photo Printing at 7-Eleven
Did you know you can get high-quality photo prints at 7-Eleven in Japan? Print any photo from your phone! It’s fast, easy, and super convenient. I walk you through how it works and why it’s a great option for printing your photos on the go.

5. How to Look Up Kanji Characters
Stuck on a kanji character you don’t know how to read? I share a few tips and tools to help you look up kanji, whether you’re using radicals, apps, or handwriting recognition. Don’t let tricky kanji slow you down!

6. Word of the Day
Today’s Word of the Day, how to use it, and why it’s a helpful word to know in your Japanese language journey.

Join the Conversation!
Got any money-saving furniture hacks or tips for looking up kanji? I’d love to hear them! Drop a comment or post on X.

Follow & Subscribe

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Ohazassu
Podcast Platforms: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/ohazassu-podcast--5905520
X (Twitter): https://x.com/OhazassuPodcast

In This Episode:

1. Nintendo Museum Opened in Kyoto Today
It’s official! The highly anticipated Nintendo Museum has opened its doors in Kyoto. Join me as I talk about what this museum means for gaming fans, what you can expect to see, and why it’s a must-visit for anyone passing through Japan.

2. Impact of AI on English Speaking Jobs in Japan
AI is reshaping industries worldwide, and Japan is no exception. I go into how AI is affecting English-speaking jobs in Japan, particularly in the English teaching sector, and whether there’s still room for human interaction in language learning.

3. Earthquake Tension Rods
Living in Japan means being earthquake-ready. In this segment, I explain what earthquake tension rods are, how they work, and why they’ve become an essential safety item in many Japanese homes.

4. Getting a Colonoscopy in Japan
It’s not a glamorous topic, but it’s an important one! I share my experience of getting a colonoscopy in Japan, from making the appointment to the procedure itself. If you're thinking about it or just curious, tune in for some tips and advice.

5. Funny Drunk Story
Time for a laugh! I was asked to share a funny drunk story from Japan, so here it is. I share a hilarious drunk story that happened to me here in Japan.

6. Word of the Day
Today’s Word of the Day is... well it wouldn't be any fun if I told you here! Watch the video till the end!

Welcome to episode 72!

1. My Japanese Language Journey
It all started in junior high school back in Australia! In this episode, I share how my journey with the Japanese language began, the challenges I faced learning, and how it’s shaped my life. From classroom basics to real-world fluency, here’s a deep dive into my language story.

2. The NHK Guy & Getting Exempt from Fees
Have you been visited by the NHK guy? Wondering how to deal with those unexpected knocks on the door? I explain how you can legitimately get exempt from paying NHK contract fees, and share a few personal stories about my own experiences with their visits.

3. Other Japan Podcasters
Shout-out time! I introduce some fellow podcasters who are also talking about Japan, sharing their unique perspectives and experiences. I was lucky enough to be invited as a guest on three podcasts this week. Links below.

Word of the Day
I’ll tell you what it means, how to use it, and why it’s such a handy word to know!

Links:

I was a guest on the below podcasts (thank for having me!)

Deep in Japan
https://www.buzzsprout.com/2296874/episodes/15836967-ohazassu-with-john

Weekly Fascination
https://youtu.be/uaFG8ohB6A0?si=LsG4kC_Sz1hRaHe3

Just Japan Podcast
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/just-japan-podcast-227-ohazassu-podcast/id846476649?i=1000670293046