Everyday Japanese Podcast

315. Perfect Japanese Isn't the Point: What I Learned About Language in India | インドから考える言語と日本文化 01.06.2026 14min

I'm recording this from a small town in Kerala, South India, somewhere I didn't expect to learn something so meaningful about language. Watching people communicate here without worrying about perfect grammar made me reflect on a story involving a friend of mine and a Japanese sake bar. It's a bit of a surprising one. If you've ever felt like you need to get your Japanese perfect before you speak, this episode is for you!🎧 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!🩷 Support this podcast https://sayurisaying.com/support

314. Culture Shock Diary: Chased by Dogs in India (Twice) | インドでのカルチャーショック野良犬編 25.05.2026 8min

Back with another culture shock from India. This time, stray dogs. I got chased twice during my trip and the two experiences could not have been more different! The first time was not my finest moment. The second time, I surprised even myself. This episode is a bit embarrassing, a bit scary, and maybe useful if you ever travel to India😉🎧 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!🩷 Support this podcast https://sayurisaying.com/support

313. Culture Shock Diary: Dentists, Delivery Apps, and Life in India | インドでのカルチャーショック！ 18.05.2026 9min

ただいま〜！I'm back! I spent two months in India planning to take a complete break — no work, no podcast, nothing. But interesting things just kept happening, and I couldn't not share them. In this episode, I talk about two unexpected experiences: a spontaneous trip to a local dentist, and a little surprise moment with a food delivery app. Nothing huge, but the kind of thing that makes you go — oh, this is so India.🎧 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!🩷 Support this podcast https://sayurisaying.com/support

312. Why I’m Pausing the Podcast for Two Months | ２ヶ月間お休みしてインドに行ってきます。 09.03.2026 11min

I’ll be taking a short break from the podcast and website until mid-May. In this episode, I explain why I decided to go to India—to focus on yoga in Rishikesh and experience South Indian food and Ayurveda. I also reflect on my previous sabbatical and why intentionally stepping away from work can lead to unexpected growth and meaningful connections.🎧 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!🩷 Support this podcast https://sayurisaying.com/support

311. Japan's New Bicycle Fines Start April 2026! Are You Ready? | 自転車の交通違反に青切符 02.03.2026 16min

Did you know Japan has had bicycle traffic rules for years but almost nobody enforced them? That's changing in April 2026. Police can now issue on-the-spot fines (called 青切符 ao-kippu) for violations like running red lights, riding the wrong way, or using your phone while cycling. In this episode, I break down the key vocabulary, the fines you need to know, and share my honest (and slightly frustrated 😅) opinion on the new system. If you ride a bike in Japan, this one's for you!🎧 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!🩷 Support this podcast https://sayurisaying.com/support

310. What Do Japanese People Really Eat for Breakfast? | 朝ごはん、何食べる？ 23.02.2026 12min

Many people picture grilled fish, miso soup, and rice — but is that really what Japanese people eat every morning? In this cozy, casual episode, I share what breakfast actually looks like in Japan, and in my own kitchen! Think clay pot rice, TKG, natto, ochazuke, and simple miso soup. I also share a special Australian-style brunch at bills that made me think, "I could get used to this!" What's your favorite breakfast?🎧 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!🩷 Support this podcast https://sayurisaying.com/support

309. 【会話】"So Peaceful…" What Do You Think While Watching Beautiful Scenery? | 自然と景色 16.02.2026 10min

This episode explores the quiet thoughts we have when surrounded by Japan's natural beauty. YUYU shares how viewing landscapes became meditation during difficult times in 2020. I talk about gazing at 3,000-meter mountains in Toyama(富山) and my ocean sunset ritual. We discuss the "sacred" quality of Japanese nature—from Enoshima(江ノ島） to Kumano kodo(熊野古道). Sometimes the best thing to think is simply: "Wow, it's beautiful." Join us for a peaceful reflection on what we fee and don't feel in nature.🎧 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!🩷 Support this podcast https://sayurisaying.com/support

308. 【会話】If You Could Live Anywhere… Talking About Our Dream Homes | 理想の家 09.02.2026 12min

In this episode, YUYU and I chat about our ideal homes. He describes his grandmother's beautiful Japanese house with large windows, tokonoma(床の間）, engawa（縁側）, and a garden designed to show all four seasons. I share my minimalist current life and my vision board dreams— a lakeside house with spacious bathroom, big kitchen sink, and a living room where I can relax with coffee (or tea!). We also talk about the joy of just imagining our dream homes. What does your perfect home look like?🎧 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!🩷 Support this podcast https://sayurisaying.com/support

307. Why I'm Leaving Osaka: A Love Letter & Goodbye | グッバイ大阪 02.02.2026 11min

I fell in love with Osaka! The friendly people, the food, the energy. But after two years, my body and mind are telling me it's time to leave. In this episode, I talk about my 20+ moves throughout my life, why I chose Osaka despite knowing it wasn't my ideal environment, and what finally pushed me to make this decision. I also share what kind of place makes me truly happy versus what's just exciting. If you're considering moving to Osaka, relocating within Japan, or curious about city vs. countryside life, this one's for you!🎧 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!🩷 Support this podcast https://sayurisaying.com/support

306. After the Detox: What 30 Days Without Social Media Taught Me | SNSを30日間減らしてみた結果 26.01.2026 11min

Remember when I said I'd quit social media for 30 days in Episode 298? Well, I did it! Kind of. Honestly, the 15-minute limit didn't really work, I kept adding "just 15 more minutes." 😅And my AI-made music? Got boring fast. But the good stuff? I started really listening to myself, got tons of ideas on the train, cleaned way more, started doing yoga, and made two big life decisions! I quit making short videos, and I'm leaving Osaka. Curious? Give it a listen!🎧 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!🩷 Support this podcast https://sayurisaying.com/support

305.【会話】Coriander, Cleaning, and Nothing Important: A Fun Chat with Miku | インターネットで共有するまでもないけどハマっていること 19.01.2026 11min

Miku and I talk about little things we’ve been into lately. Like my love for cleaning and her coriander obsession. It’s one of those chats where nothing big happens, but it still feels good to share. A cozy episode for Japanese learners who enjoy natural, real conversations😂🎧 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!

304. 【会話】Why Is Making Japanese Friends So Hard? Real Talk with Miku | みくと一緒にお悩み相談に乗ってみました（友情・インフレ） 12.01.2026 16min

Why is making Japanese friends so hard? In this episode, we sit down with Miku from Miku Real Japanese for a fun but thoughtful conversation, answering real questions from foreigners living in Japan. We talk about friendship, cultural differences in communication, and feelings of loneliness, while sharing warm, realistic advice. It’s a relaxed, friendly chat like talking with close friends who really listen😌🎧 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!🩷 Support this podcast https://sayurisaying.com/support

303. If You Had a Little Superpower… Which Esper Would You Be? | ちょっとだけエスパー 05.01.2026 9min

Have you ever imagined having a small, unusual superpower? In today’s episode, I dive into the world of the Japanese comedy drama Chotto Dake Esper. From reading minds by touch to asking pigeons for favors, each “esper” has a tiny but useful gift. I also share which powers I’d want myself. Tune in and think about which “little esper” power you’d like to have!🎧 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!🩷 Support this podcast https://sayurisaying.com/support

302. Kanazawa: Japan’s Hidden Kyoto? | 金沢に行ってきました（２回目） 29.12.2025 16min

Join me as I take you on a trip to Kanazawa, a peaceful city often called “a smaller, quieter Kyoto.” In this episode, I share my personal travel tips, from visiting stunning gardens and historic tea districts to trying unforgettable desserts and cocktails. You’ll also hear key warnings about weather, transport, and reservations. Perfect for travelers wanting to explore Japan off the beaten path!🗺️A custom Google Map for this location is available exclusively for Silver Penguin members!🎧 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!

301. The Tonkatsu Spot Loved by Locals | 常連さんがいっぱいのとんかつ屋さんの秘密 22.12.2025 8min

In this episode, I talk about a local tonkatsu restaurant loved by regular customers but rarely visited by tourists. I share 5 heartwarming features that make this place special, from how staff speak to customers to the warm atmosphere. Do you have a favorite spot like this? Let’s explore together!🎧 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!

300. Looking Back and Saying Thank You! | 300回記念エピソード 15.12.2025 11min

This special episode celebrates the 300th episode of the Everyday Japanese Podcast. I talk freely about how I started during COVID, how I kept uploading every week, which episodes are most popular, and which ones I personally love. I also share why conversation episodes matter and how important your support has been. Thank you for continuing your Japanese journey with me! Let’s keep going together☺️🎧 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!

299. 【会話】Unpopular Opinions: Things We Dislike (That Everyone Else Loves) with YUYU | 世間は好きだけど実は苦手なことをYUYUさんと話してみた！ 08.12.2025 15min

In this episode, I’m joined by YUYU as we share our “unpopular opinions” about things that many people in Japan love! like going to the movies or hanging out at noisy izakayas. It’s an honest, sometimes funny look at introversion, overstimulation, and feeling different. Can you relate to any of our confessions?🎧 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!

298. Before the Detox: My 30-Day Social Media Challenge Begins | SNSを30日間減らしてみる 01.12.2025 13min

This episode marks the start of my 30-day social media detox journey. I share the real reasons why I decided to step away from SNS like Instagram and YouTube, how I’m preparing for it, and practical tips for reducing screen time! Are you with me?🎧 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!

297. "119" vs. "911" : What I Learned from Two Ambulance Rides |日本と外国で救急車に乗った経験 24.11.2025 14min

In this episode, I share what happened the two times I rode in an ambulance once in Canada and once in Japan. You’ll hear the stories, learn how the two emergency systems compare, and get a real-life look at what it’s like to call 119 in Japan. If you’ve ever wondered what to expect in an emergency here, this one’s for you.🎧 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!

296. From Door to Desk: Japan’s Commute and Work Culture | 通勤と労働 17.11.2025 13min

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 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!