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)

189 posts

The Meaning Behind Our Japanese Names #281

tiers – 15 min read

みくと名前の由来について話しました！We talk about the meanings behind our Japanese names—from “Beautiful Christmas” to “Small Lily.” We also explore how names are chosen in Japan, including kanji, stroke count, gender-neutral names, and more.

Aug 4, 2025

Why Is He Moving? A Real Chat About Life in Japan f/w @JapanesewithShun #280

tiers – 20 min read

シュンが大阪を去る？😳Shun is leaving Osaka after two years! We talk about why he’s moving, what makes a city feel “right,” and how environment and community affect our lives. A gentle conversation about change, health, and the little things that shape our daily happiness.

Jul 28, 2025

What I Learned from Traveling with a Friend #279

tiers – 10 min read

みくのすごいところ！In this episode, I share what I discovered while traveling for a week with my friend Miku from “Miku Real Japanese.” I talk about her amazing communication skills, her thoughtful behavior, and how this trip helped me grow too.

Jul 21, 2025

My Jobs #277

tiers – 20 min read

私の仕事について！Ever wondered how I juggle content creation, website management, 1-on-1 lessons, and curriculum design for a U.S. startup all at once? In this episode, I lift the curtain on my four jobs, share how I spark ideas, and unveil side projects like a sleepy-time Japanese podcast.

Jul 7, 2025

Disaster-Ready in Japan #276

public – 21 min read

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防災（ぼうさい）グッズって何を揃える？Get disaster-ready in Japan. I cover 3 must-have items (water, food, toilet), useful extras from ¥100 shops, how to find shelters, and a weekend challenge to get started!

Jun 27, 2025

Travel Priorities: Why Food Comes First in Japan #275

tiers – 12 min read

日本人の食の優先度は高過ぎる？！ I talk about how travelers choose their No. 1 priority. For many Japanese people, it’s all about the food! Discover the cultural roots of Japan’s love for local dishes, seasonal flavors, and artisan cooking—perfect listening practice for intermediate learners.

Jun 23, 2025

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

"Zotto!” AI Moments & How to Stay Human #272

tiers – 17 min read

ゾッとした話😱 AI makes our lives easier—but sometimes it gives me chills. In this episode, I share three common fears about AI, a moment that made me feel “zotto,” and how I try to stay connected with real people.

Jun 2, 2025

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