Beste Aomori Podcasts (2024)

1
Foreign-Born Samurai: William Adams ft. Nathan Ledbetter (Guest Host, Dr. Samantha Perez) 1:00:57

3h ago1:00:57

1:00:57

Historians Nathan Ledbetter & Dr. Samantha Perez rejoin the Krewe to continue our conversation on foreign-born samurai, this time highlighting the life of William Adams! In this episode, we explore his relationships with both Japanese & non-Japanese while in Japan, the similarities between William Adams's story & House of the Dragon (what?!), how h…

1
Foreign-Born Samurai: Yasuke ft. Nathan Ledbetter (Guest Host, Dr. Samantha Perez) 1:03:32

21d ago1:03:32

1:03:32

Joined by guest host Dr. Samantha Perez, the Krewe sits down with Princeton's Nathan Ledbetter to unpack how the term "samurai" evolved over the centuries and dig into foreign-born samurai, specifically Yasuke. Uncover everything they you need to know about the African samurai right here in this episode... AND SO MUCH MORE! ------ About the Krewe -…

1
Japan Road Trip Week 3: Kyushu Scenic Train, Cat Temple, & World's Oldest Family Business 58:05

28d ago58:05

58:05

It's the final week of our road trip around Japan! We got to ride the 36+3 scenic train in Kyushu, and started our drive back through Honshu on the Sea of Japan coast. We visited a cat temple in Yamaguchi, saw the Tottori Sand Dunes, one of Japan's 3 great views, and 2 more original castles. At the end of the trip, we spent the night in Houshi Ryok…

1
Change in Urban & Rural Japanese Communities ft. Azby Brown 46:46

1M ago46:46

46:46

What's your Japan version of "Ain't Dere No More"? Between changes within the megalopolis of Tokyo to the struggles of keeping countryside communities alive & thriving, Azby Brown returns to the podcast to discuss urban migration, depopulation, revitalization projects, centuries-old feuds raging on today... AND SO MUCH MORE! ------ About the Krewe …

1
Japan Road Trip Week 2: Aomori Nebuta Matsuri, Shikoku School Stay, and Hells of Kyushu 1:00:29

1M ago1:00:29

1:00:29

This week we've gone from the far north in Aomori Prefecture to the far south in Kyushu! We got to see the annual Aomori Nebuta Matsuri, stayed in an old elementary school on Shikoku, changed plans due to the Nankai Trough earthquake advisories, and took a ferry to the 7 Hells of Beppu on the island of Kyushu. Listen to the end of every episode to …

1
Japan Road Trip Week 1: Hiking Hakusan, Akita Camping, and Osorezan 50:33

2M ago50:33

50:33

This week we started our road trip by hiking Mt. Haku (or Hakusan), one of Japan’s 3 holy mountains. After the hike we started driving north to the Tohoku region, camping in Akita Prefecture, and making our way to Aomori Prefecture. We got to see Hirosaki Castle (one of the 12 remaining original castles in the country!) and stayed in Mutsu. During …

1
Hanging Out In Hyogo ft. Rob Dyer of The Real Japan 58:19

2M ago58:19

58:19

Joined by friend of the podcast and travel expert Rob Dyer of The Real Japan, the Krewe explores Hyogo Prefecture and everything it has to offer! From popular spots to secret gems, Rob reveals his insight into place he calls his second home, foods that are must eat, and things that are must do! Hell yes to zip lining into Godzilla's mouth! Don't mi…

1
Moving Out, Cat Bus Bread, and Most Expensive Grapes in the World 48:38

2M ago48:38

48:38

Today we officially moved out of our apartment in Uchinada! We’ll talk about the moving process, what we did with all our furniture, and how moving is different in Japan vs. the US. We also talk about all-you-can-eat buffet differences, sweet beans, bread shaped like Totoro’s cat bus, and what we’re doing now that we don’t have an apartment. Plus, …

1
The Thunderous Sounds of Taiko ft. Takumi Kato (加藤拓三), World Champion Taiko Drummer 26:48

2M ago26:48

26:48

Grab your bachi and join the Krewe as they sit down with Takumi Kato (加藤拓三), world champion taiko drummer, to explore the sounds of taiko, his personal experiences and approaches to taiko, & his current adventure across the United States performing 1,000 times in all 50 states. ------ About the Krewe ------ The Krewe of Japan Podcast is a weekly e…

1
Last Day of Work, Special Paper, and Lonely Vending Machines 45:51

2M ago45:51

45:51

Today was Zeb’s last day of work! He’s now the proud owner of a couple new certificates to commemorate his time working as a JET ALT. Speaking of special paper, this week we talk about the specific plant used to make paper for Japanese yen banknotes - plus lonely vending machines, buying love in a can, and WCW wrestling. Listen to the end of every …

1
Yakuza: Past, Present, Future ft. Jake Adelstein, Author of Tokyo Vice 48:32

2M ago48:32

48:32

The Krewe is joined by journalist & author of Tokyo Vice, Jake Adelstein, to dive into the yakuza. How did these organizations gain prominence in Japanese society, and how have the police & government responded over time to their presence? What behind-the-scenes decisions went into the TV adaptation of Jake's thrilling memoir? Find out all this and…

1
Giant Cream Puffs, Group Bike Ride, and Toshogu Shrine Gundam 45:15

2M ago45:15

45:15

This week we went on a bike ride to Himi in Toyama Prefecture with some of Zeb’s cycling teammates, and stopped mid-ride for giant choux cream puffs! We also talk about why Kanazawa is the “Ice Cream Capital of Japan”, and Annie finished her ice cream bike route with 12 different stops. Plus, did you know that the Toshogu Shrine in Nikko recently r…

1
Disposing of Trash in Japan, New Laughing Rule, and Ice Cream Flavors 44:45

2M ago44:45

44:45

This week we talk about the holiday Tanabata, a new rule from Yamagata Prefecture about laughing once a day, and ice cream flavors. Would you try miso and cheese ice cream? What about mountain vegetable ice cream? Plus, how do you get rid of trash and recycling when living in Japan? The “laughing once a day ordinance”: https://www.asahi.com/ajw/art…

1
New Yen Banknotes, Visiting Fantasy Springs at Tokyo Disney, and Taking Health Tests 47:41

3M ago47:41

47:41

This week, Japan is releasing the newly designed bank note bills! What’s printed on the new yen bills, and how does this affect vending machines? We also talk about visiting the new Disney Sea park area (and how to get into Fantasy Springs), and our experience with annual health checks in Japan. How are the tests different than checkups in the US? …

1
How the first convenience store came to Japan and Himeji Castle price increase 40:41

3M ago40:41

40:41

Did you know the first convenience store came to Japan 50 years ago in 1974? This week we’re talking about how the conbini arrived in Japan, the first item that was sold, and how it changed the way you can get cash, pay bills, and enjoy snacks. We’re also talking about the differences between the words “popular” and “famous” in Japanese and English…

1
Cycling 500km in One Day, Wakayama, Nachi Taisha, and Japan’s Shortest River 48:35

3M ago48:35

48:35

This week we talk about how Zeb’s longest bike ride yet took him from the Sea of Japan across to the Pacific Ocean! He rode 500km (314 miles) to the tip of the Kii Peninsula in Wakayama Prefecture in one day. What would he change about the cycling route next time? What did he eat to fuel a 20 hour bike adventure? What were his biggest takeaways fro…

1
Hello From The Park - 500km Ride Plans, JET Program Successor, and Moss Village 41:04

3M ago41:04

41:04

The weather has been so nice recently that we decided to record this week from our neighborhood park - hopefully you can enjoy some of the ambiance of suburban Japan along with us! This week we’re talking about Zeb’s 500km single day bike ride plan, Annie’s scenic hydrangea temple route, visiting a moss village, and getting to chat with Zeb’s JET P…

1
JET Program Placements, Trash Balloons, and Kunrei vs Hepburn Writing Systems 48:22

4M ago48:22

48:22

It’s an exciting time for incoming JETs, since they’re starting to learn their placements in the program! This week we talk about trash balloons making news headlines, the Kunrei vs. Hepburn debate for romanizing Japanese writing, kaga yuzen fabric dying method, and what we wish we knew about the JET Program before arriving in Japan. Listen to the …

1
Weekend in Tokyo, Rickshaw Ride, Coffee Festival and Museums - Field Trip Episode! 41:47

4M ago41:47

41:47

This week Annie's cousin visited Japan and we spent a weekend in Tokyo together! We recorded some throughout our trip, and have more of a "field trip style" episode this week. Join us as we visit the stairs from the "Your Name" anime movie, see a college friend's hometown, ride in a rickshaw, go thrift shopping, enjoy a few museums around Tokyo, an…

1
The Japanese Space Program ft. Dr. Kate Kitagawa of JAXA 58:45

4M ago58:45

58:45

Prepare for lift off as the Krewe sits down with returning guest Dr. Kate Kitagawa of JAXA to look deep into the past, present, and future of Japan's space program! From pencil rockets & SLIM landers to international collaborative efforts, discover Japan's role in exploring the far reaches of outer space. ------ About the Krewe ------ The Krewe of …

1
Ontake Race Results, Cat Trading Cards, and Lake Suwa Bike Lanes 59:01

4M ago59:01

59:01

This week we share Zeb’s bike race results from the Mt. Ontake hill climb! We also talk about the Kiso Area and Annie’s bike ride around Lake Suwa, visiting a Showa era museum in Takayama, cat trading cards, and some Lawson Mt Fuji drama. Nameneko Cat Cards: http://nameneko.com/jp/products.html Showa Era Museum: https://showakan.jp/takayama/ Ontake…

1
The Japanese Pop Music Scene ft. Patrick St. Michel 58:27

4M ago58:27

58:27

The Krewe is joined by Patrick St. Michel, Japan-based writer for the Japan Times and author of Make Believe Melodies blog. Patrick shares his passion and expertise on all things J-Pop, what's popular now, where to find it, and so much more! Are you a life-long fan of Japanese pop music? Or maybe you are looking for ways to discover more about J-Po…

1
Business Card Etiquette, International Shipping, & Bikepacking Trip 47:29

4M ago47:29

47:29

This week Annie gets to visit an Elementary School and practice proper business card etiquette for introductions. Zeb is preparing for his biggest cycling race of the year this weekend, the Ontake Hill Climb, and Annie went on her first bikepacking trip in Toyama Prefecture. We also navigate the international shipping process for packages, and shar…

1
School Field Trip, Visiting the Eye Doctor, and Driving Differences in Japan 56:03

5M ago56:03

56:03

This week we try to get rid of one yen coins, go on a school field trip to the Kanazawa castle park, visit the eye doctor, and talk about how drivers say thank you in Japan. Another week talking about new experiences, mundane errands, and all the things we learn in between while navigating life abroad. Listen to the end of every episode to hear our…

1
MEXT Scholarship Programs: Tips & Testimonials ft. Tye Ebel & William Archambeault 58:47

5M ago58:47

58:47

The MEXT Scholarship deadline is quickly approaching (May 24, 2024 for the Nashville Consulate). But what is a MEXT Scholarship Program? The Krewe is digging into this today. We sit down with returning guest Tye Ebel, JET/MEXT Coordinator for the Consulate-General of Japan in Nashville, & a current MEXT research scholar, William Archambeault. Throu…

1
Making Kites, Golden Week, and Wisteria Ice Cream 45:58

5M ago45:58

45:58

This week we share Zeb’s Ibukiyama cycling race result, share a listener email, talk about making kites, flying carp for children’s day, eating kashiwa mochi, and trying wisteria flavored ice cream. It’s Golden Week in Japan! Listen to the end of every episode to hear our Japanese "words-of-the-week," and head to @ramblingramsbothams on Instagram t…

1
Launching Louisiana's Only High School Japanese Program ft. Dr. Tara Sanchez 53:39

5M ago53:39

53:39

Japanese language programs in a non-university setting are a rarity in Louisiana, but fortunately for some students in the Greater New Orleans area, one school has them covered! The Krewe sits down with Dr. Tara Sanchez to discuss how she established a Japanese language program at Chalmette High School and how that program is providing opportunitie…

1
Our 100th Episode! Are We Still Glad We Started This Podcast? 49:02

5M ago49:02

49:02

Can you believe we’ve recorded 100 podcast episodes? This week we’ll look back at things we wish we did better, things we’re planning, and what we hope for the podcast in the future. Plus, we’ll ramble about things like soot sprites, coffee, buying postage stamps, and “slice of life” manga. Thank you so much for listening along on our living abroad…

1
The Real World of Geisha ft. Peter Macintosh 55:13

5M ago55:13

55:13

Kyoto-based geisha culture guru Peter Macintosh joins the Krewe to take a look at geisha culture, reality vs. perception, how societal changes impact the geisha scene today & much more. If you are a fan of traditional Japanese culture, this episode is for you! ------ About the Krewe ------ The Krewe of Japan Podcast is a weekly episodic podcast spo…

1
Ibukiyama Bike Race, Kanazawa's Oldest Shrine, and Fish Auctions 46:13

5M ago46:13

46:13

This week we talk about Zeb’s first bike race of the year (a hill climb up Ibukiyama!), Ishiura Shrine (the oldest shrine in Kanazawa with a cute dog mascot), and an evening fish auction on the Sea of Japan. We also talk about the mossy Natadera Temple, battle history at Sekigahara, and what Japan’s prime minister gifted to the US (from the nearby …

1
Inside Japanese Homes & Architecture ft. Azby Brown 53:18

5M ago53:18

53:18

What’s the first thing that comes to mind when you think of a Japanese home? Is it the scent of tatami mats? Shoji-style sliding doors? What are other major components and influences that go into making the Japanese home, be it traditional or modern, as well as Japanese Architecture as a whole? With special guest Azby Brown, the Krewe is going to d…

1
Cherry Blossom Picnic in Kanazawa & the Japanese Food Pyramid 50:33

5M ago50:33

50:33

This week Kanazawa has been covered in pink cherry blossoms! We talk about getting to enjoy a hanami (flower viewing) picnic on the Sai River, where the tradition of these picnics started, and typical things you might eat and drink to celebrate. Speaking of food, we’ll also talk about the Japanese “food pyramid” or the dietary recommendations, and …

1
Checking Out Miyagi ft. Ryotaro Sakurai (Guest Host, William Woods) 1:15:31

6M ago1:15:31

1:15:31

Joined by travel expert, owner of Lifebridge Inc., & popular YouTuber Ryotaro Sakurai and fellow New Orleanian William Woods, the Krewe explores Miyagi Prefecture and everything it has to offer! From popular spots to secret gems, Ryotaro & Will share their insight into place that are must see, foods that are must eat, and things that are must do! D…

1
Shimanami Kaido and End of the School Year 47:03

6M ago47:03

47:03

This week we’re talking about one of Japan’s most famous cycling routes (the Shimanami Kaido), soy sauce that spends three years in an open fermentation, and what the end of the school year is like here. It’s Spring Break in Japan, and the cherry blossoms are just starting to bloom! More about the... Shimanami Kaido: https://shimanami-cycle.or.jp/c…

1
Japanese Self-Study Strategies ft. Walden Perry 1:03:31

6M ago1:03:31

1:03:31

Ever wanted to learn Japanese and just not know where to start? The Krewe sits down with Walden Perry, a Louisiana native who prior to 2020 had zero Japanese language experience. What started as a personal challenge during the pandemic became a multi-year self-study language learning adventure. And as with all adventures, there are ups and downs. T…

1
Riding the New Hokuriku Shinkansen Extension From Kanazawa to Tsuruga 46:13

6M ago46:13

46:13

The Hokuriku Shinkansen Line was extended for the first time since 2015, and we got seats on the very first train from Kanazawa to Tsuruga, the new end of the line! Why did we wake up at 4am? How was the train journey? What did we do in Tsuruga? We’ll talk about all that this week! Links to articles about Tsuruga that we mention: Why Tsuruga? https…

1
Akira Toriyama: Legacy of a Legend ft. Matt Alt 1:00:21

6M ago1:00:21

1:00:21

On March 1st, the world lost a pop culture legend, Akira Toriyama. In today's episode, friend-of-the-podcast Matt Alt re-joins the Krewe to look a back at the legacy that Toriyama left behind and his impact on pop culture in Japan and around the world. You won't want to miss this one! ------ About the Krewe ------ The Krewe of Japan Podcast is a we…

1
Moving To A New Country - Vernal Equinox & Big Life Changes This Fall 50:46

6M ago50:46

50:46

We have a big life update this week - we’re moving to a new country in the Fall! We’ll talk about where we’re moving and some of the factors that led to our decision. We picked today to talk about this since March 20th is Vernal Equinox Day and the spring equinox is traditionally seen as a time of new life & renewal. We thought it would be a poetic…

1
Witness Fukushima's Recovery through Educational Tourism ft. William McMichael 58:14

6M ago58:14

58:14

13 years have passed since the catastrophic events of March 11th's Great East Japan earthquake & tsunami, along with the nuclear disaster at the Fukushima Daiichi Plant. Fukushima, as a prefectural community, has demonstrated incredible resiliency in its recovery efforts, but unfortunately there still is a residual stigma attached to the prefecture…

1
Scenic Berumonta Train, Eating Eel Bones, & Mister Donuts Truth 48:40

6M ago48:40

48:40

We got to ride the Berumonta, a scenic train in Toyama Prefecture! This train has a sushi chef on board, you can get sake delivered to your seat, and there are even local fans that wait along the line to wave as it goes by. Here’s more info about the train: http://berumonta.jp/ You can reserve seats for this train by asking at any green JR ticket s…

1
The History & Evolution of Godzilla ft. Dr. William (Bill) Tsutsui 52:46

7M ago52:46

52:46

Kicking off Season 5 with a deep dive into the King of Monsters. Godzilla expert & author of "Godzilla On My Mind" Dr. William (Bill) Tsutsui joins the Krewe to discuss the Godzilla franchise, its roots, its impact in Japan, & how it became the global phenomenon it is today. Get in touch with your inner kaiju and learn more about your favorite gian…

1
Tourism Vocabulary, Friends’ Visit, and Mountain Biking in Japan 51:18

7M ago51:18

51:18

This week we read a listener email about a farm in Wakayama, talk about our friends visiting from Australia, and why there are so many “Little Kyotos” in Japan. We also talk about language in travel writing and tourism vocabulary, and mountain biking in Gunma Prefecture. Join our newsletter! https://www.ramblingramsbothams.com/newsletter Links to t…

1
Season 5 MASSIVE PREVIEW 14:10

7M ago14:10

14:10

SEASON 5 is (almost) HERE!! This is your one week warning... as the KREWE is BACK on Friday, March 8th, 12 noon CST. Here's a sneak peek & preview of gusts & episodes to come: - The History & Evolution of Godzilla ft. Dr. William Tsutsui - Witness Fukushima's Recovery through Educational Tourism ft. William McMichael - Japanese Self-Study Strategie…

1
Japan's Unlikely First Astronaut, Kids Menus & Cycling the Tedori River 52:56

7M ago52:56

52:56

This week we talk about cycling along the Tedori River Canyon Road in Ishikawa, aizuchi, talking to yourself, food on kids menus around the world, nearly naked men, and the first person Japan sent to space. We have a new monthly newsletter! Sign up at www.ramblingramsbothams.com/newsletter More about… The Tedori River area in Ishikawa: https://haku…

1
Sake, Samurai Swords, Giant Peach Babies, & Tiny Bars 48:33

7M ago48:33

48:33

We have a new monthly newsletter! Sign up at www.ramblingramsbothams.com/newsletter This week we’re talking about train deals to save money on a trip to Kanazawa, the emperor’s birthday, sake brewing, giant peach babies, samurai swords, and tiny bars. Here are some links to things we discuss: Hokuriku Ouen Ticket Announcement: https://soranews24.co…

1
Third Places, Kanazawa Cafes, & Cardinal Directions in Japanese 46:28

7M ago46:28

46:28

Thanks to National Foundation Day in Japan, Zeb had a day off from school this week! We got to spend the day in Kanazawa city, having lunch and checking out a new cafe. Annie also saw ten thousand dandelion puffballs in a small & interesting art gallery named Himito on the Saigawa River. Speaking of cafes and lunch spots, we also talk about the con…

1
Celebrating Setsubun, Throwing Beans, and Travel Clickbait 43:53

8M ago43:53

43:53

Hello from snowy Ishikawa once again! We’re starting off this week by answering some listener questions - has the “coming of age day” cut off divided friend groups? We also talk about clickbait when it comes to travel and promoting Japan. Finally, February 3rd was Setsubun (節分), or the “seasonal division” marking the day that winter ends and spring…

1
Snowy Kenrokuen Garden & Superstitions in Japan 52:14

8M ago52:14

52:14

This week we visit Kenrokuen (兼六園) in the snow, very early one morning! Zeb included some recorded soundbites from our walk - did you know that every morning there’s a time you can enter the garden for free? We also talk about a coworker’s tip for making supermarket sushi taste better, a kotatsu river boat, and some superstitions from Japan. You ca…

1
Government Dating App, Kotatsu Train, and Japanese Idioms 37:09

8M ago37:09

37:09

This week we talk about a new dating app in Japan created by the Tokyo government, the history of kotatsu (& a kotatsu train), and a special stamp collecting event in Wakayama Prefecture for cyclists. We also talk about strawberry day, the phrase ichigo ichie (一期一会), and other Japanese idioms (or yojijukugo). Links for some things we reference: Whe…

1
Burning New Years Decor, Your “Rebirth Year”, and University Entrance Exams 51:52

8M ago51:52

51:52

Should you visit Kanazawa right now? What do you do with New Years decorations after the celebrations end? When do you eat kagami mochi? We’re talking about these questions this week, plus the annual Japanese university entrance exams, soy sauce ice cream, why turning 60 is so special, and the unluckiest ages to turn. Tourism Updates From Ishikawa …

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Aomori Podcasts

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