25 Things Nobody Tells You About Japan
Summary
The host promotes his new travel book, *Journey Across Japan*, which offers a guide to all 47 prefectures and personal travel stories. He then answers 25 rapid-fire questions about Japan, covering topics like favorite convenience stores, the best views of Mount Fuji, and overrated tourist spots. The episode also discusses cultural nuances, such as the true meaning of "ikigai," and shares personal anecdotes about dangerous experiences and hidden gems.
Topics discussed
Sponsors and welcome to the solo episode
Promoting the new book 'Journey Across Japan'
Committing to opinions for 25 travel questions
Q1: Best convenience store (Lawson vs Family Mart)
Q2: Best view of Mount Fuji (Izu Peninsula)
Q3: Favorite activity in new towns (Markets)
Q4: Most overrated place (Harajuku)
Q5: Best place to hide from a bank robbery
Q6: Dream destinations for a bad day
Q7: Go-to dish after travel (Tonkatsu)
Q8: Friendliest people in Japan (South vs North)
Q9: Best ramen and most overrated dish
Q10: Essential experience (Staying in a Ryokan)
Q11: Underrated thing you would miss (Rural decay)
Sponsor breaks (Experian, Aerie, Skyrizy, HERS)
Q12: Strangest place to live (Shimabara)
Q13-14: Train stations and the Ikigai myth
Q15-16: Ugly places and vanished nightlife
Q17-18: Zombie apocalypse and time travel spots
Q19-20: Moving to Japan and bad websites
Q21-22: Ridiculous day and cinematic journeys
Q23-25: Haters, danger, and banned items
Outro and final sponsor reads
Listen ad-free on Castria