Podcast

Join SayuriSaying for weekly insights into Japanese culture and language, perfect for intermediate learners and cultural enthusiasts. Enjoy solo episodes and guest features covering everything from social norms to deep cultural concepts. Silver Penguin members and above get access to video podcasts with subtitles and easy-to-copy transcripts (with or without furigana)

181 posts

Why Is Japan So Clean? #271

tiers – 13 min read

日本がきれいな秘密？Why are Japan’s streets so clean despite the lack of public trash cans? In this episode, we explore not only Japan’s culture of following rules but also the quiet efforts of local volunteers—unsung heroes who help keep their neighborhoods beautiful each morning.

May 26, 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

Sneaker Season: Kicks & Culture #267

tiers – 12 min read

スニーカーを履こう👟！Join me for an easy-listening chat in Japanese about Japan’s booming sneaker culture—why people line up for limited colors, how I rotate ASICS, Salomon, and Onitsuka Tiger, and tips for choosing the right shoes. Perfect practice for intermediate learners!

Apr 28, 2025

Washing Dishes in a Tiny Japanese Kitchen #266

tiers – 16 min read

生活音あり！Come along as I do the dishes and chat in Japanese about everyday life, home cooking, and kitchen routines—all from my tiny apartment. This relaxed solo episode includes real sounds and real talk, perfect for immersive Japanese listening practice.

Apr 21, 2025

Let's Talk Tea: Discovering the Joy of Japanese & Black Tea #265

tiers – 12 min read

お茶について！I share my recent dive into the world of tea—from buying a new kettle with a thermometer to exploring 30 different teas from a Japanese brand. Learn how water temperature changes flavor and discover fun tea-related Japanese words!

Apr 14, 2025

Casual Japanese with Shun: Health & Fitness Talk!

tiers – 34 min read

Shun is here! In this episode, we chat casually about health, fitness, and daily habits. How often does Shun go to the gym? What does he eat? And what’s his secret to staying consistent? Tune in for natural Japanese conversation and pick up useful vocabulary along the way!

Mar 31, 2025

Anpanman’s March: A Child’s Song with a Deep Message #262

tiers – 15 min read

The theme song of Anpanman isn’t just for kids—it raises profound questions about happiness and purpose. Join us as we explore the meaning behind the lyrics and what we can learn from this iconic anime hero.

Mar 24, 2025

Diet in Japanese vs. English: What’s the Difference? #261

tiers – 11 min read

Did you know that “diet” has different meanings in Japanese and English? In this episode, I talk about my own diet journey while explaining the difference between the two words. Plus, I share tips on staying motivated—whether it’s for dieting or learning Japanese! Let’s keep going together!

Mar 17, 2025

Japanese Comedy in Osaka: A Live Show Adventure #260

tiers – 15 min read

Osaka is the heart of Japanese comedy! In this episode, I share my experience of watching live comedy in Osaka, the home of many famous comedians. I also introduce a fun wordplay game from a comedy duo that can help with Japanese learning. Get ready to laugh and learn!

Mar 10, 2025

Japanese Stationery: Clever & Useful Finds #258

tiers – 12 min read

I ❤️文具！Love stationery? In this episode, we talk about clever Japanese stationery, from the “Ukanmuri Clip” to privacy protection stamps and smooth-writing pens. These small but smart tools make studying and daily tasks easier. What’s your favorite stationery item? Let us know!

Feb 24, 2025

Why Kenichi Might Be My Ideal Man—Japanese Vocab for Personality & Skills! #257

tiers – 16 min read

理想の男性？Could Kenichi from Around 40 Man’s Isekai Online Shopping (2025) be my ideal man? In this episode, I introduce Japanese words that go beyond やさしい (kind) and 頭がいい (smart)! Learn unique vocab like 適応力 (adaptability) and 利他的 (selfless) while breaking down Kenichi’s personality and skills.

Feb 17, 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