169. Forest Bathing (Shinrin-Yoku)

Japan is home to countless incredible hiking trails, from famous mountain routes to scenic walks through forests and along the coast. Join Jason and Paul as they rank some of the most popular hikes they’ve done in Japan and share what they loved, what surprised them, and how the trails stack up against each other.Topics Covered:Takaosan - Omotesando Trail (Tokyo)Lake Chuzenji - Mt. Hangetsu Trail (Nikko)Magome to Tsumago - Nakasendo (Japanese Alps)Yabuhara to Naraijuku - Nakasendo (Japanese Alps)Kamikochi - Riverbank Trails (Japanese Alps)Aokigahara - Ice Caves Trail (Mt. Fuji)Yamadera (Yamagata)Join our Discord community!Become a member on Patreon!

Japanese folklore can involve some very strange yokai, and not all of them are quite as well known as kappa or oni. Join Jason and Paul as they discuss some of the weirdest and most entertaining yokai they’ve come across.Topics Covered:Suppon no YureiFutakuchi OnnaHaradashiUbumeZenihebiHone OnnaUondoKage OnnaShichinin MisakiJoin our Discord community!Become a member on Patreon!

The Ainu are the Indigenous people of northern Japan, with a unique culture, language, and history that have long been intertwined with the island of Hokkaido. Join Jason and Paul as they explore Ainu traditions and beliefs, their relationship with nature, the history of Japanese assimilation and discrimination, and the ongoing revival of Ainu culture today.Topics Covered:HistoryLanguage and IdentitySociety and Daily LifeClothing and Material CultureCuisineBeliefs and TraditionsCultural RevivalWhere to Learn MoreJoin our Discord community!Become a member on Patreon!

During the break between seasons, Sightseeing Japan is revisiting some favorite episodes from the past. In Japan, the term “idol” refers to attractive young entertainers who primarily sing, act, dance, and model, among other things. Join Jason and Paul as they explore this unique aspect of modern Japanese society!

During the break between seasons, Sightseeing Japan is revisiting some favorite episodes from the past.Kappa are dangerous reptilian water creatures from Japanese mythology. Join Jason and Paul as they explore the fascinating folklore behind this odd, cucumber-loving yokai!Topics Covered:HistoryWhat Do Kappa Look Like?What Do Kappa Do?: Hobbies — Diet — Violence — ShirikodamaHow to Defeat a KappaPublic PerceptionAre Kappa Real?FolktalesWhere to Find Kappa in Japan: Kaiyodo Kappa Museum (Shimanto, Kochi Prefecture) — Sogenji Temple (Asakusa, Tokyo) — Kappabuchi Pool (Tono, Iwate Prefecture)

During the break between seasons, Sightseeing Japan is revisiting some favorite episodes from the past. Japan built its whisky industry based on techniques imported from Scotland and they now produce some of the most sought-after whisky in the world. Join Jason and Paul as they explore the delicious world of Japanese whisky!

Long before the arrival of Buddhism, Japan's spiritual traditions revolved around nature, ancestors, and countless kami. Join Jason and Paul as they take a closer look at the history and beliefs of Shinto.Topics Covered:HistoryKamiPurificationRites of PassageShrinesFestivalsThe Creation MythJoin our Discord community!Become a member on Patreon!

Can spending time in the forest actually improve your health and well-being? Join Jason and Paul as they take a closer look at the Japanese practice of forest bathing and why it has gained attention around the world.Topics Covered:Books on Asia InterviewHistoryThe PracticeThe ScienceHow/Where to ParticipateKyoto In SoundJoin our Discord community!Become a member on Patreon!

What is it actually like to attend school in Japan? Join Jason and Paul as they examine everything from daily routines and school culture to uniforms, exams, and extracurricular activities.Topics Covered:Structure of Education SystemThe Average School DayThe School YearJoin our Discord community!Become a member on Patreon!

From hidden Christian history to international trade and atomic tragedy, Nagasaki has one of the most unique stories in Japan. Join Jason and Paul as they explore the history, culture, and modern atmosphere of this fascinating port city.Topics Covered:HistoryPeace Park Nagasaki / Hypocenter Park / Atomic Bomb MuseumUrakami CathedralSanno Shrine One-Legged Torii GateSuwa ShrineNagasaki Museum of History & CultureMegane BridgeKofukujiSofukujiNagasaki Shinchi ChinatownDejimaNagasaki Koshibyo Confucius Shrine and Historical Museum of ChinaOura CathedralGlover GardenMt. InasaHuis Ten BoschGunkanjima (Hashima Island)Festivals: Lantern Festival — Nagasaki KunchiLocal Specialties: Castella — Champon — Sara Udon — Toruko RiceHow to Get To/Around NagasakiJoin our Discord community!Become a member on Patreon!