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• From Zero to Ghibli: Why Everyone’s Running to OpenAI
• One Scene, Four Seconds, Endless Heart – The Ghibli Way
• It’s Cute, It’s Ghibli-ish… But Is It Really You?
• Will Ghibli Sue?
• The Rise of AI Can’t Be Stopped – What Does This Mean for Creators? 
• Mononoke Hime as an AI Live Action?  

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 In Japan, April is more than just the start of spring—it’s the beginning of everything! From the iconic Nyūgakushiki (school entrance ceremonies) to Hanami parties under the cherry blossoms, this episode takes you through the nostalgic beauty of Japan’s new school year. Ryusuke shares personal April memories and why this season hits so different in Japan. 

• Japan’s New School Year Kicks Off in April 
• Ryusuke’s Nostalgic April Stories – 懐かしい思い出
• Nyūgakushiki (入学式) – The Iconic Japanese Entrance Ceremony
• Hanami (花見) & Enkai (宴会) – Cherry Blossoms, Drinks, and Good Times

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 In this episode, we dive into Kenson (謙遜) — the Japanese art of humility. But what does it really mean to be humble in Japan? Is Kenson just being modest… or is it actually a kind of self-deprecation? 

 In this episode, we explore: 

• What the heck is Kenson, really?
• Is being humble in Japan just... polite self-hate?
• Where did this whole mindset come from?
• Can being too humble mess with your brain?
• Why are Japanese artisans so damn good at pretending they’re not that good?
• Ryusuke spills some real talk from his days in the world of shokunin
• Plus: a gem of a story from Katsura Sunshine, the Canadian dude doing traditional  Japanese rakugo — and absolutely nailing it

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 Ever tasted freshly-picked bamboo shoots or crispy tempura made from wild mountain plants? In this episode, we uncover the hidden gems of Japan’s seasonal cuisine—sansai! Tune in for stories, recipes, and tips to bring authentic Japanese spring flavors to your table. 

 採れたてのタケノコや、サクサクの山菜天ぷらを味わったことはありますか？今回のエピソードでは、日本の春の味覚「山菜」の魅力をたっぷりご紹介します。季節感あふれるストーリーやレシピ、おうちで楽しめる調理のコツなどをお届け。ぜひ日本の春をあなたの食卓でも感じてみませんか？ 

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 Ever wondered why some people seem to wake up full of purpose while the rest of us hit snooze five times? The secret might be Ikigai—Japan’s unique concept of a meaningful life. But forget the complicated life-coach diagrams! In this episode, we break it down the real Japanese way—through small joys, daily rituals, and things that make you smile (yes, even your morning coffee counts!). Tune in to discover what Ikigai really is, where it comes from, and how you might already have it without even realizing it! 

 目覚めた瞬間からやる気に満ちている人がいる一方で、スヌーズを5回も押してしまう人がいるのはなぜでしょう？その秘密は、日本独自の「生き甲斐」にあるかも!! でも、よくある自己啓発の考えは忘れてください！このエピソードでは、本当の日本流の生き甲斐をわかりやすく紹介します。小さな喜び、日々の習慣、そしてあなたを笑顔にするもの（そう、朝のコーヒーなど！）を通じて、生き甲斐とは何か？どこから来たのか？そして、あなたもすでに生き甲斐を持っているかもしれないということを一緒に探っていきましょう！ 

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 Ever wondered why Japan is filled with colorful vending machines that dispense tiny capsule toys? In this episode, we dive into the world of Gacha Gacha (ガチャガチャ)—where the thrill of surprise meets collectible madness! From its origins and evolution to the most bizarre and sought-after items, we explore what makes these little toys so addictive. Whether you're a casual fan or a hardcore collector, this episode will make you want to turn that dial! 

 なぜ日本にはカラフルなカプセルトイの自販機が溢れているのか？  今回のエピソードでは、*ガチャガチャ（ガチャポン)*の世界を深掘りします！ コインを入れてハンドルを回すと、何が出てくるか分からないワクワク感と、コレクションの魅力が詰まった文化。ガチャガチャの歴史や進化、そして最も珍しく人気のアイテムまで、その魅力を徹底解説していきます！ 

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 How far would you go for good luck? In Japan’s Hadaka Matsuri, thousands of nearly naked men rush through the cold, get drenched in freezing water, and battle for sacred objects—all in the name of fortune and tradition. In this episode, we explore the 3 biggest Hadaka Matsuri, from the rowdy Saidaiji Eyo in Okayama to the eerie Shin Otoko ritual in Aichi. What’s the meaning behind these wild celebrations, and why do people still participate today? Strip away the misconceptions and join us for a deep dive into Japan’s most extreme festivals! 

 幸運を手に入れるために、どこまでやりますか？ 日本の「裸祭り」では、何千人ものほぼ裸の男性が極寒の中を駆け抜け、冷水を浴び、神聖な物を奪い合います――すべては運と伝統のために。今回のエピソードでは、岡山の激しい「西大寺会陽」から、愛知の神秘的な「神男」儀式まで、日本各地で行われる3つの代表的な裸祭りを掘り下げていきます。これらの祭りの本当の意味とは？ なぜ今もなお多くの人々が参加し続けるのでしょうか？ "裸の祭り"とゆう概念を取り去って日本で最も過激な祭りの世界に飛び込んでみましょう！ 

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Ever wondered why so many shops and restaurants have a waving cat at their entrance? In this episode, we explore the origins of Maneki Neko, the famous Beckoning Cat of Japan. From legendary tales to the meanings behind different colors and poses, join us as we uncover the fascinating history and cultural significance of this beloved lucky charm. 

 お店やレストランの入り口で手を振る猫を見かけたことあると思います？今回のエピソードでは、日本の有名な招き猫の起源について探ります。隠された物語から、色やポーズによる異なる意味まで、今や世界中で愛される幸運のシンボルの歴史と文化的な意義を紐解いていきます。ぜひ一緒にその魅力を発見しましょう！ 

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Imagine walking into a restaurant, only to be politely turned away—not because you lack a reservation, but because you're a first-time guest. This episode unpacks Kyoto’s Ichigen-san culture, explaining why exclusivity plays a vital role in these historic establishments and how you might one day get through their doors.
 飲食店に足を踏み入れた瞬間、丁寧にお断りされる—それは予約がないからではなく、あなたが初めての来店だから。今回のエピソードでは、京都の「一見さん」文化を掘り下げ、なぜ歴史ある京都の店々でこの様ななルールが重要視されているのか、そしていつかあなたもその様なお店に行けるかもしれないヒントなどお話しします。 

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 What makes Japanese hospitality so unique? In this episode, we dive into the concept of Omotenashi, exploring its meaning, origins, and how it shapes everyday interactions in Japan. Learn how this selfless service differs from hospitality in other cultures and discover ways to bring its thoughtful principles into your own life. 
日本のおもてなしが特別な理由とは？今回のエピソードでは、「おもてなし」の概念に迫り、その意味や起源、そして日本の日常生活にどのように根付いているのかを探ります。他の文化におけるホスピタリティとの違いを学びながら、この思いやりにあふれた精神をどのように日常生活に取り入れられるかを一緒に学んでいきましょう！

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