People - Sayuri Saying

From Rock Band to Japanese Content Creator — Rui’s Story #273 #274

tiers – 23 min read

有名バンドのミュージシャンから日本語系クリエイターへ！ Rui from Okkei Japanese shares his journey from pro musician to Japanese content creator. We talk about chasing dreams, playing in Tokyo’s live houses, the meaning of “方向性の違い,” and finding joy in helping others through language and creativity.

Jun 7, 2025

First Impressions in Japanese: From Polite to Casual with YUYU #268 #269

paid – 43 min read

YUYUさんと初めて会いました😌！初対面で気をつけていることやコツについて話しています。We navigate first-time meetings in Japan—from choosing polite language to avoiding an intimidating vibe. Eye contact, small talk, grooming tips & more for smoother Japanese conversations.

May 5, 2025

Do Osakans Really Eat Okonomiyaki All the Time? chat with Miku #255

tiers – 17 min read

大阪人のミクに質問してみた。We’re back with Miku from Miku Real Japanese to uncover the truth about Osaka’s famous okonomiyaki! Do locals eat it all the time, or is that just a stereotype? Find out how Osakans really enjoy this dish and learn about Kansai vs. Hiroshima styles.

Feb 3, 2025

Dine with Strangers? My Honest Review of the Timeleft App #253

tiers – 14 min read

知らない人と晩ご飯に行く？I tried “Timeleft,” a unique app that connects strangers for dinner in big cities like Tokyo and Osaka. From signing up to meeting fascinating people, I share the highs and lows of this tech-driven dining experience. Is it worth trying? Tune in to find out my honest review!

Jan 20, 2025

New Year Resolutions and Fun Conversations at the Izakaya 2025 with Shun

paid – 6 min read

For our premium Penguin members 🐧❤️Kick off 2025 with us at an izakaya! Shun and I share our New Year’s resolutions, travel dreams, and simple joys like anime and relaxation. Practice your listening skills and enjoy conversational practice in a casual and entertaining setting!

Jan 7, 2025

Learn Japanese the Fun Way! Play Magical Banana with Miku and Shun

tiers – 17 min read

🎮 Learn Japanese with the Magical Banana Game! Magical Banana is a fun word association game that helps you practice Japanese while building your vocabulary and creativity. Let’s learn Japanese while having fun!

Dec 21, 2024

【インプロ】A Couple’s Real Talk in Japanese | 同棲カップルの家事についての話し合い with YUYUの日本語Podcast #245

tiers – 9 min read

Experience natural Japanese in this improvised play! Follow a fictional couple’s candid conversation about balancing household chores. Perfect for learners seeking to improve their listening skills and grasp real-life expressions in a fun, spontaneous context.

Nov 25, 2024

Rush Hour Revelations: Rediscovering Japan's Packed Trains #242

tiers – 12 min read

Join me, a remote worker, as I share fresh observations from my first 満員電車 (packed train) experience in years while heading home to Kagawa. From smartphone habits to the distinctive ぎゅうぎゅう (cramped) silence, discover how morning rush hour reveals subtle aspects of modern Japanese life.

Nov 4, 2024

How to Connect with Locals in Japan: Tips for Starting Conversations #241

tiers – 21 min read

In this episode, we explore how to start conversations with Japanese people, especially when visiting or living in Japan. Get tips on finding the right spots, overcoming nervousness, and making memorable connections during your stay.

Oct 28, 2024

Japan's Economic Path: Choices and Consequences #240

tiers – 17 min read

Moshi Moshi Yusuke discusses Japan's unique economic choices over the last 30 years, contrasting them with Western strategies. Discover why Japan took a different approach and the potential implications for the future, from space development to addressing the declining birthrate.

Oct 21, 2024

Taking the Leap: From Office Worker to Online Japanese Teacher #238

tiers – 16 min read

In this episode, Yusuke shares his journey from a 25-year career as an office worker to becoming an online Japanese teacher. He discusses his motivations, the challenges of changing careers, and his advice for those wanting to make bold changes in their own lives.

Oct 7, 2024

Inside Gen Z Japan: Trends, Slang, and Student Life with Kota

tiers – 10 min read

Dive into Japan's Gen Z culture with Kota, a university student. From trending music to unique slang, get an insider's view of student life and the expressions that define today's youth, like "ガンダ" and "エグい."

Aug 30, 2024