Have you ever imagined having a small, unusual superpower? In today’s episode, I dive into the world of the Japanese comedy drama Chotto Dake Esper. From reading minds by touch to asking pigeons for favors, each “esper” has a tiny but useful gift. I also share which powers I’d want myself. Tune in and think about which “little esper” power you’d like to have!
🎧 Full transcript, video, and more: https://sayurisaying.com
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Join me as I take you on a trip to Kanazawa, a peaceful city often called “a smaller, quieter Kyoto.” In this episode, I share my personal travel tips, from visiting stunning gardens and historic tea districts to trying unforgettable desserts and cocktails. You’ll also hear key warnings about weather, transport, and reservations. Perfect for travelers wanting to explore Japan off the beaten path!
🗺️A custom Google Map for this location is available exclusively for Silver Penguin members!
🎧 Full transcript, video, and more: https://sayurisaying.com
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In this episode, I talk about a local tonkatsu restaurant loved by regular customers but rarely visited by tourists. I share 5 heartwarming features that make this place special, from how staff speak to customers to the warm atmosphere. Do you have a favorite spot like this? Let’s explore together!
🎧 Full transcript, video, and more: https://sayurisaying.com
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This special episode celebrates the 300th episode of the Everyday Japanese Podcast. I talk freely about how I started during COVID, how I kept uploading every week, which episodes are most popular, and which ones I personally love. I also share why conversation episodes matter and how important your support has been. Thank you for continuing your Japanese journey with me! Let’s keep going together☺️
🎧 Full transcript, video, and more: https://sayurisaying.com
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In this episode, I’m joined by YUYU as we share our “unpopular opinions” about things that many people in Japan love! like going to the movies or hanging out at noisy izakayas. It’s an honest, sometimes funny look at introversion, overstimulation, and feeling different. Can you relate to any of our confessions?
🎧 Full transcript, video, and more: https://sayurisaying.com
Search by episode number (e.g., “EP 120”) to find what you need!🐧 Join the Penguin Family for bonus content & support the show! Your support helps keep this podcast alive and means a lot to me. Thank you for considering!
This episode marks the start of my 30-day social media detox journey. I share the real reasons why I decided to step away from SNS like Instagram and YouTube, how I’m preparing for it, and practical tips for reducing screen time! Are you with me?
🎧 Full transcript, video, and more: https://sayurisaying.com
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In this episode, I share what happened the two times I rode in an ambulance once in Canada and once in Japan. You’ll hear the stories, learn how the two emergency systems compare, and get a real-life look at what it’s like to call 119 in Japan. If you’ve ever wondered what to expect in an emergency here, this one’s for you.
🎧 Full transcript, video, and more: https://sayurisaying.com
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What’s it like to commute and work in Japan? In this episode, I share real experiences from my time as an office worker and explore typical work culture. From crowded trains and door-to-door commute times to working hours, lunch breaks, and the difference between “black” and “white” companies. You’ll also learn key Japanese phrases and cultural tips along the way!
🎧 Full transcript, video, and more: https://sayurisaying.com
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Today, I tried the “50 Questions in 5 Seconds” challenge! 🇯🇵
These are common questions in everyday Japanese conversation. Try answering with me and practice thinking in Japanese ✨
Special thanks to YUYU for creating this challenge!
You can watch the original video here:
https://youtu.be/jDhXDMu4FMs?si=4Grzxmb2CHySrtpE
We also talk about fillers like “えっと” and natural pauses to sound more natural.
Let’s build speaking confidence together 🌿🐧
🎧 Full transcript, video, and more: https://sayurisaying.com
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I recently walked the Kumano Kodo, one of Japan’s oldest pilgrimage routes and a UNESCO World Heritage site. In this episode, I share stories about its history, the three sacred Kumano shrines, and the mysterious three-legged crow, Yatagarasu. Walking through its quiet mountain paths made me reflect on how journeys like this can refresh both body and mind. It truly was more than a hike.
🎧 Full transcript, video, and more: https://sayurisaying.com
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The Ig Nobel Prize celebrates research that’s both hilarious and deeply insightful. For 19 consecutive years, Japanese scientists have captured the world’s attention with inventive studies like painting cows with zebra stripes to repel bugs, using wasabi as a fire alarm, and proving that kissing can ease allergy symptoms. Join us to explore how curiosity and humor keep science wonderfully human!
🎧 Full transcript, video, and more: https://sayurisaying.com
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Autumn in Japan is full of charm☺️ Fresh fruits, cozy evenings, colorful leaves, and perfect weather for hiking. In this episode, I talk about the moments that make me feel, “Ah, autumn has come.” You’ll hear natural Japanese expressions about seasonal foods, outdoor activities, and reading time.
🎧 Full transcript, video, and more: https://sayurisaying.com
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I invited YUYU to talk with me about how we celebrate birthdays. He explained Mexican traditions where the birthday person brings cake to share, and how parties are almost a must. I shared my own recent birthdays spent alone, from traveling to quiet reflection. We also talked about family memories, including YUYU’s wish to thank his parents on his birthday. Together we explore how birthdays can be about parties, gratitude, or simply enjoying life at your own pace.
🎧 Full transcript, video, and more: https://sayurisaying.com
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I invited YUYU to talk with me about competition and motivation. He told me stories from his childhood, playing baseball, and why he finally quit swimming. As a coach, he realized that sports can be fun without rivalry. Together we discussed how competition gives energy but can also create pressure, and how curiosity or personal goals can be just as powerful. This talk made me reflect on my own way of finding motivation.
🎧 Full transcript, video, and more: https://sayurisaying.com
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In this episode, we sit down with YUYU to explore cashless culture and money mindsets in Japan and Mexico. From credit vs. debit cards to QR code payments, we discuss how people pay in daily life and why attitudes toward debt, saving, and responsibility differ across cultures.
We also share personal stories about growing up with certain money values and how they shape spending habits today. A fun, insightful episode for Japanese learners interested in culture beyond the classroom!
🎧 Full transcript, video, and more: https://sayurisaying.com
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In this episode, I talk about three unique coffee characters I met in Osaka. First, a “Coffee Doctor” who keeps detailed “bean records” for customers, just like a clinic. Second, a lively “Osaka Mom” clerk who gave me advice and free coffee at Yodobashi Camera.
Finally, a kind “Coffee Sage,” an elderly roaster who offered generous service at unbelievably low prices. These encounters show how human connection makes Japan’s coffee culture so special.
🎧 Full transcript, video, and more: https://sayurisaying.com
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In this podcast episode, I talk about “Mental Health Care That Really Worked for Me. I wasn’t feeling great...
Japan’s humid summer kept me inside, inactive, and moody. So I tried five simple routines: morning walks, deep cleaning, swimming, chatting with people, and keeping a sketch diary. These small changes really helped my mood, sleep, and energy. I also share a few cultural insights about life in Japan. Like elementary school swimming classes, sketch diaries, and school trips to Kyoto and Nara. Tune in for practical wellness tips and a peek into Japanese daily life!
🎧 Full transcript, video, and more: https://sayurisaying.com
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Japan is famous for curry rice, but did you know there’s another kind of curry that goes beyond it? In this episode, explore “Soup Curry,” a Sapporo-born dish with hearty vegetables, customizable toppings, and unique soup bases. Learn how it differs from curry rice, how to order it, and pick up useful food-related vocabulary and cultural insights along the way.
🎧 Full transcript, video, and more: https://sayurisaying.com
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Today, I’m joined by Miku for a casual conversation about the “Five Love Languages.”
We talk about how each of us expresses and feels love differently—through words, quality time, gifts, acts of service, or physical touch. You’ll hear fun personal stories, cultural insights, and natural Japanese expressions from our dialogue.
Which love language speaks to you?💖
🎧 Full transcript, video, and more: https://sayurisaying.com
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While preparing for a trip with my mom, I noticed our 金銭感覚(kin-sen kankaku - our sense of money) was completely different. I’m a minimalist saver, while she enjoys shopping and new experiences. In this episode, I share our story, introduce useful Japanese vocabulary, and invite you to reflect on your own spending style.
Are you more careful with money, or do you enjoy spending freely?
🎧 Full transcript, video, and more: https://sayurisaying.com
Search by episode number (e.g., “EP 120”) to find what you need!🐧 Join the Penguin Family for bonus content & support the show! Your support helps keep this podcast alive and means a lot to me. Thank you for considering!