Japan Podshow - The Podcast all about Japan show

Japan Podshow - The Podcast all about Japan

Summary: Japan Podshow is a brand new podcast bringing you weird and wonderful stories from the land of the rising tide of foreigners. We're looking to expose the real life of foreigners in Japan, showcasing all the success stories, and the not-so-successful-but-amusing stories, in addition to bringing you the latest news from the streets of Tokyo and beyond.

Join Now to Subscribe to this Podcast

Podcasts:

 Japan Podshow Episode 12 part 4 | File Type: video/x-m4v | Duration: Unknown

Episode 12 is so amazing it had to be split into 4 parts - and this is part 4. Make sure you check out parts one (http://pokya.jp/japanpodshow/2009/11/japan-podshow-episode-12-part-1/), two (http://pokya.jp/japanpodshow/2009/11/japan-podshow-episode-12-part-2/) and three (http://pokya.jp/japanpodshow/2009/11/japan-podshow-episode-12-part-3/) which are all arranged in reverse order on the front page of JapanPodshow.com (http://www.JapanPodshow.com) It is HIGHLY RECCOMENDED that you download the original files and not watch them on YouTube as the quality is much better. They're about 120mb each. Direct download links for Quicktime / iTunes friendly movie files: Part 1 (http://bit.ly/jpod12_1) | Part 2 (http://bit.ly/jpod12_2)| Part 3 (http://bit.ly/jpod12_3) | Part 4 (http://bit.ly/jpod12_4) In part three we're giving away a Premium Japanese language course from www.japanesepod101.com (http://www.japanesepod101.com) worth $180! (http://pokya.jp/japanpodshow/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/ep12_coverp4.jpg) (http://pokya.jp/japanpodshow/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/Mrs_Bob_Flyer.jpg)In part 4 of the final show in series 1 of JapanPodshow, George and Joseph are joined in bed by some special guests from Victorian era London - otherwise known as members of the Tokyo Players. (http://www.tokyoplayers.org) Hear all about their upcoming Christmas show Mrs. Bob Cratchit's Wild Christmas Binge (http://www.tokyoplayers.org/?lang=1&page=58&mode=detail&event=23) Following that, it's time for George and Joseph to say goodbye for this series, which they do in musical style. The music over the closing credits is by our talented friend Nobuki Ueda (http://nobukiueda.com/). Thanks to everyone for all of their support throughout the series - we couldn't have done it without you. How to watch this episode: * Subscribe in iTunes (http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewPodcast?id=310413183) to get it on your iPod / iPhone / media player * Watch the embedded video below * Download the file here (http://bit.ly/jpod12_4) (iTunes (http://www.apple.com/itunes/) required. High quality m4V file, 122mb) Please note: YouTube seems to have had some problems converting this video so it 'stops and starts a bit. Please download the original high quality version (http://bit.ly/jpod12_4) for optimal viewing pleasure.

 Japan Podshow Episode 12 part 3 | File Type: video/x-m4v | Duration: Unknown

(http://pokya.jp/japanpodshow/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/ep12_coverp3.jpg) In part three of this video special from the Ritz-Carlton Tokyo, things really hot up as George and Joseph go to bed. After a troubled night's sleep they get back into gear by doing the first ever live performance of the song they made up on the spot - 'Weekend at the Ritz'. Following that they have some listeners' feedback from someone who things they could do better than the boys... Hear Japan WINNERS! George provides the drum roll as the winners of our HearJapan.com (http://www.hearjapan.com)competition are announced! COMPETITION! Win a $180 Japanese language course! (http://pokya.jp/japanpodshow/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/Screen-shot-2009-11-12-at-16.28.41.png)Finally, George and Joseph announce the HUGE competition to win an annual subscription to the www.japanesepod101.com Premium Japanese language course, worth $180! To enter, just email hello[a]japanpodshow.com with the answer to this question: How many million downloads has Japanese Pod 101 (http://www.japanesepod101.com) had since it launched? You might find the answer on their front page. An approximate answer will allow you to enter the prize draw, so check out www.japanesepod101.com (http://www.japanesepod101.com/start) now. 25% Discount for all JapanPodshow listeners! Watch the podcast to get the secret code which will give you 25% off any purchase made over at www.japanesepod101.com (http://www.japanesepod101.com/start) Make sure you check out Episode 4 when George and Joseph find a few other people in their bed ...and say goodbye. How to watch this episode: * Subscribe in iTunes (http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewPodcast?id=310413183) to get it on your iPod / iPhone / media player * Watch the embedded video below * Download the file here (http://bit.ly/jpod12_3) (iTunes (http://www.apple.com/itunes/) required. High quality m4V file, 122mb) Please note: YouTube seems to have had some problems converting this video so it 'stops and starts a bit. Please download the original high quality version (http://bit.ly/jpod12_3) for optimal viewing pleasure.

 Japan Podshow Episode 12 part 2 | File Type: video/x-m4v | Duration: Unknown

(http://pokya.jp/japanpodshow/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/ep12_coverp2.jpg)In Part 2 of the final episode of series 1 of Japan Podshow, George and Joseph have a special Japanese lesson, find themselves presented with champagne courtesty of their hosts the Ritz-Carlton Tokyo (http://www.ritzcarlton.com/en/Properties/Tokyo/Default.htm), awarded a trophy by none other than the King of Podcasting Scott Lockman (of Tokyo Calling (http://tokyocalling.org/)), and relaxed before bedtime by a song performed live in their luxury suite by Kat Mcdowell [official Japanese site (http://www.katmusic.jp/index)] [MySpace (http://www.myspace.com/katmcdowell)] [Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/pages/Kat-McDowell/98992023827?v=info)][YouTube (http://www.youtube.com/user/katmcd0well)], who plays 砂時計 (sunadoke) from her album Echoes Over the Ocean. Stay tuned in part three as George and Joseph enter the grand bedroom... How to watch this episode: * Subscribe in iTunes (http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewPodcast?id=310413183) to get it on your iPod / iPhone / media player * Watch the embedded video below * Download the file here (http://bit.ly/jpod12_2) (iTunes (http://www.apple.com/itunes/) required. High quality m4V file, 121mb) Please note: YouTube seems to have had some problems converting this video so it 'stops and starts a bit. Please download the original high quality version for optimal viewing pleasure.

 Japan Podshow Episode 12 part 1 | File Type: video/x-m4v | Duration: Unknown

(http://pokya.jp/japanpodshow/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/ep12_coverp1.jpg)Season 1 of Japan Podshow comes to a close with a glorious 40-minute video special shot at the Ritz-Carlton Hotel (http://www.ritzcarlton.com/en/Properties/Tokyo/Default.htm), above Tokyo Midtown. Split into 4 parts, this musical adventure 49 floors above the city sees numerous visitors to George and Joseph's luxury suite. Join them in bed and enter their competition to win a Japanese language course worth US$180! See the debut of their classic song, 'Weekend at the Ritz' - and find out what Bob Crachit's wife is doing beneath the covers. Here in Part 1, George and Joseph arrive at the hotel, check out the spa and gym, and are then suprised by a knock at the door... Make sure you check out parts two, three and four too for the glorious climax! How to watch this episode: * Subscribe in iTunes (http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewPodcast?id=310413183) to get it on your iPod / iPhone / media player * Watch the embedded video below * Download the file here (http://bit.ly/jpod12_1) (iTunes (http://www.apple.com/itunes/) required. High quality m4V file, 120mb) Please note: YouTube seems to have had some problems converting this video so it 'stops and starts a bit. Please download the original high quality version for optimal viewing pleasure.

 Episode 11.5: DRM-free Sumo Wrestlers | File Type: audio/mpeg | Duration: 35:08

(http://pokya.jp/japanpodshow/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/ep_11_5elephant-sumo600.jpg) In this extra episode of Japan Podshow, George and Joseph (shouldn't that be Joseph and George?) are coming to you live from the Metropolitan Art Space in Ikebukuro. Listen to the show here 32mb, 30 mins, MP3 (http://pokya.jp/japanpodshow/media/series01/japanpodshow-episode-11point5-drm-free-sumo.mp3) Download it direct here, Subscribe and listen in iTunes or Listen via our RSS feed. At the Sumo (http://pokya.jp/japanpodshow/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/sumo_wrestling_5952-2-300x200.jpg)On the show today we're putting on weight and going to the Sumo at Ryogoku kokugikan (http://www.sumo.or.jp/eng/). It was day 9 of one of the six annual Grand Sumo Contests, and in the last two hours we saw some of Japan's top wrestlers throwing their weight around. You can see the video we shot at the Grand Sumo Hall here (http://pokya.jp/japanpodshow/2009/10/video-sumo-wrestling-special/). In this podcast, hear more about the sumo experience, including a story about the food that they wrestlers eat and where you can try it - whilst watching the wrestlers grazing in their stable. Check tournament dates and seat availability on the official English Grand Tournament site (http://t.pia.jp/sumo/en/sumo11.php). You can buy tickets here (http://ent-sumo.pia.jp/index.html) (Japanese only). Interview: Hear Japan This week's entrepreneur interview is with Nathan, founder of www.hearjapan.com (http://www.hearjapan.com), one of the world's best online stores for DRM-free Japanese music. Hear how Nathan first became interested in Japanese music when here as an exchange student, how he grew the business and what challenges he's faced (the full version of this podcast will be out shortly on our sister podcast Making it in Japan (http://www.pokya.jp/makeit)). Competition - Win credit for Japanese music downloads! PLUS: FREE downloads for all listeners! In this week's competition we're giving away credit for downloads from www.hearjapan.com. (http://pokya.jp/japanpodshow/images/hearjapanlogo.gif) * First Prize: ¥5,000 yen * Second Prize: ¥2,500 * Third Prize: ¥1,500 Closing date for entries: 27th October 2009 Entering is easy - just listen to the podcast and you'll know what to do! ¥200 of credit for use on www.HearJapan.com for all listeners How to get your credit: * Register with Hear Japan (http://www.hearjapan.com/account/register) * Do what we tell you to do on the podcast and then email us at hello [@]  Japanpodshow.com with your Hear Japan username (please allow a little time for credit to be processed) Music played in the interview included Water On feat. Akino Arai (http://www.hearjapan.com/store/album_info/Thank_You_For_Being_A_Friend), Ant's Planet (http://www.hearjapan.com/store/album_info/capital_of_gravity), Okane o haratte! (http://www.hearjapan.com/store/album_info/Kago_no_Tori_Tenkuu_o_Shirazu) and Kobune Okiba no Ie (http://www.hearjapan.com/store/album_info/SWEET_SWITCH). At the end of the interview George and I talk about Omodaka (http://www.hearjapan.com/store/group/OMODAKA). Music We are played out today by Water On feat. Akino Arai (http://www.hearjapan.com/store/album_info/Thank_You_For_Being_A_Friend), a HearJapan.com artist. Listener's Feedback Thank you everyone for your feedback! If you have sent any in the last 10 days we'll be including it in our final show. Join us on Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/pokya) Follow us on Twitter (http://www.twitter.com/japanpodshow) Write a review in iTunes (http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewPodcast?id=310413183) Email us [hello at japanpodshow.com] Phone us - numbers on our contact page (http://pokya.jp/japanpodshow/contact/) Skype us (skype:japanpodshow?call) Comment on our site (http://www.japanpodshow.com) Comment on our YouTube channel (http://www.pokya.jp/japanpodshow) ...and remember,

 Video: Sumo Special | File Type: video/x-m4v | Duration: Unknown

(http://pokya.jp/japanpodshow/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/sumo_wrestling_5936.jpg)Never been to a Grand Sumo Tournament and want to know what it's all about? Been to a Grand Sumo Tournament and want to relive the excitement? Join Japan Podshow as we bring you live commentary on some stunning bouts, which see wrestlers flying, pushing, hugging and falling on photographers. We're talking about the tournament in Episode 11.5 of Japan Podshow, out shortly here (http://pokya.jp/japanpodshow/2009/10/episode-11-5-drm-free-sumo-wrestlers). Your viewing options: * Download the video here [mv4 format for iTunes 45mb (http://bit.ly/4ewbu9)] * Watch the video embedded below * Subscribe to our iTunes feed (http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewPodcast?id=310413183) * Subscribe to our RSS feed (http://feeds2.feedburner.com/JapanPodshow) * Watch it on our Facebook Fan Page (http://www.facebook.com/pokya) (which we invite you to join!).

 Episode 11: Harajuku and the Weblish Wonder | File Type: audio/mpeg | Duration: 47:53

(http://pokya.jp/japanpodshow/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/episode_11_600-300x300.jpg) Episode 11 of Japan Podshow is unlike any other podcast you have heard before. This may or may not be a good thing - have a listen and decide for yourself! Listen to the show here using the player below the elephant43mb, 47 mins, MP3 (http://pokya.jp/japanpodshow/media/series01/japanpodshow_episode11_harajuku_weblish-wonder.mp3) Download it direct here, Subscribe and listen in iTunes or Listen via our RSS feed. Intro: The musical begins We're not sure what came over George and Joseph, but they decided that they were going to come up with songs on the spot to provide links between sections in this episode. The fun starts with a musical intro. The streets of Harajuku Join George and Joseph as they head down to Harajuku to meet the characters who gather there on a Sunday. There's the man in black who loves to dance, a group of cosplayers, a Brazillian man who has flown 30 hours only to be disappointed (but makes up for it by wearing a psycho rabbit mask), and the man who dresses as a schoolgirl and impersonates a butterfly, the legendary Koichi Yamada. What do the tourists who are there think about all this? Watch the video: The characters of Harajuku! See the video in High Definition on the Japan Podshow YouTube channel (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bih30IAiuKk). Entrepreneur interview: John Daub, Weblish Media Ltd. (http://pokya.jp/japanpodshow/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/weblish_shows.jpg)This is an extract of the full interview which you can hear over at Making it in Japan (http://pokya.jp/makeit/2009/09/john-daub-weblish-media-ltd/). Weblish Media Ltd (http://www.weblish.net), established in 2007, is an educational entertainment network, with videos distributed via iTunes to over 100,000 regular subscribers. John's video series Vocabulary Generator was ranked the No. 1 video in Japan for 10 weeks, and the network has up to a million downloads per month. In this interview, John tells us of his motivation for starting the company, and how it has grown. What effect has John's experience of travelling to over 70 countries had upon his videos, and how can horses and llamas help students to learn Japanese? John also talks about the help he got from Jetro (http://www.jetro.go.jp/), and what the future holds for Weblish. Listen to the full interview here (http://pokya.jp/makeit/2009/09/john-daub-weblish-media-ltd). Learning Japanese - Another prong Joseph and George have a shared prong (learning Japanese tip) this week. They reccomend The Dictionary of Basic Japanese Grammar series from the Japan Times (http://bookclub.japantimes.co.jp/act/en/Detail.do?id=0454). Competition Time Listen up to see if you are the lucky winner of Kat McDowell's (http://www.katmusic.jp) new album, Echoes over the ocean (http://www.amazon.co.jp/gp/product/B0027ZY0MU?ie=UTF8&tag=josephtame-22&linkCode=as2&camp=247&creative=7399&creativeASIN=B0027ZY0MU)(http://www.assoc-amazon.jp/e/ir?t=josephtame-22&l=as2&o=9&a=B0027ZY0MU) Win a song about you, performed live (and filmed) in Shibuya! Yes, Joseph and George will perform it live,  for you, in front of the Hachiko statue in Shibuya, and video it for you. Get your entries in now by email! Listener's feedback Thank you again for your feedback! This week we have another tip-off about George impersonating an Australian DJ, and a very nice comment from our No.1 (and only?!) fan in California! Details of how to submit your feedback below. Music: Nobuki Ueda - Live in the Kitchen In this episode we are very fortunate to have a professional musician perform live in our kitchen studio. Nobuki Ueda (www.nobukiueda.com (http://www.nobukiueda.com/)), whose album Seven Songs from Lab is available in the Japan iTunes Store (http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewAlbum?id=290633994&s=143462) and from Amazon

 Episode 10: Onsen Experience | File Type: audio/mpeg | Duration: 47:50

(http://pokya.jp/japanpodshow/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/Episode10_onsen1-300x300.jpg)In Episode 10 of Japan Podshow - the Onsen Experience - George and Joseph are getting all naked and bringing you tales from the onsen - the Japanese hot spring. Listen to the show here 43mb, 47 mins, MP3 (http://pokya.jp/japanpodshow/media/series01/japanpodshow_episode10_onsen_experience.mp3) Download it direct here, Subscribe and listen in iTunes or Listen via our RSS feed. Onsen experience Joseph, George and Honor Joseph and George share a few stories from the bath, and Honor Dargan of www.tokyotopia.com (http://www.tokyotopia.com) is also on hand to tell us about Tokyo's no.1 onsen / spa - LaQua Spa (http://www.tokyo-dome.co.jp/e/laqua/) - and to explain why the earth moves when you go there. Interview: Kat McDowell This week's interview is with Kat McDowell (http://www.katmusic.jp (http://www.katmusic.jp)) Kat is a professional singer song writer who has just released her first full album here in Japan. Her story is an inspiring one - find out what she did in order to reach the stage she's now reached, and what advice she has for other aspiring singers. The agency Kat mentioned was Dag Music. (http://www.dagmusic.com/English/index.html) Kat's official music site: www.katmusic.jp (http://www.katmusic.jp/) Kat's MySpace page (http://www.myspace.com/katmcdowell) Kat's YouTube channel (http://www.youtube.com/user/katmcd0well) Kat's new album on CD Japan (http://www.cdjapan.co.jp/detailview.html?KEY=AVCH-78003) Video: Singing with grandma (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mHkmLFFMqQw) Kat on Twitter (http://twitter.com/katmcdowell) (http://pokya.jp/japanpodshow/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/414o0+i3rsL-300x300.jpg)Kat also provides live music for the show, with two songs from her new album Echoes over the Ocean. Competition time George and Joseph announce the lucky winner of the Cirque du Soleil Zed Theatre Tokyo (http://www.zed.co.jp/home_en.php) ticket giveaway - and winners of our Japanese goody bag competition. This week, you can win a copy of Kat McDowell's new album! Listener's feedback We have some very special feedback this week, with a phone message from not-from-illinois Mark ...and a surprise for George from Australia! All this and more in Episode 10 ...and remember, the show isn't over until the cockeral crows! We look forward to receiving your feedback! Join us on Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/pokya) Follow us on Twitter (http://www.twitter.com/japanpodshow) Write a review in iTunes (http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewPodcast?id=310413183) Email us [hello at japanpodshow.com] Phone us - numbers on our contact page (http://pokya.jp/japanpodshow/contact/) Skype us (skype:japanpodshow?call) Comment on our site (http://www.japanpodshow.com) Comment on our YouTube channel (http://www.pokya.jp/japanpodshow)

 Episode 9: Manga and Modelling in the Land of Quakes | File Type: audio/mpeg | Duration: 44:43

(http://pokya.jp/japanpodshow/wp-content/uploads/2009/08/Episode9_earthquakes.jpg)Episode 9 of Japan Podshow takes you 800 feet above Tokyo to the observation deck of the Metropolitan Government Building

 Exclusive: Behind the curtain at the Cirque du Soleil Theatre Tokyo | File Type: video/mp4 | Duration: Unknown

UPDATE: Win tickets to see the amazing 'ZED (http://www.zed.co.jp/home_en.php)' at Cirque du Soleil Theatre Tokyo! Just listen to the upcoming episode 9 of Japan Podshow! (Subscribe (http://feeds2.feedburner.com/JapanPodshow) so you don't miss it!) (http://pokya.jp/japanpodshow/wp-content/uploads/2009/08/title_image_square400.jpg)Ever since they were children, Japan Podshow presenters George and Joseph had wanted to join a circus. Following months of clowning around in the Japan Podshow (http://www.japanpodshow.com) studio, in the summer of 2009 they were fortunate to be invited behind the curtain at the world-famous Cirque Du Soleil Theatre Tokyo ("Circus of the Sun" シルク・ドゥ・ソレイユ シアター東京. Click here to subscribe to Japan Podshow and watch it on iTunes / your iPod / iPhone / media player (http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewPodcast?id=310413183). Or, download the short version direct from here (http://pokya.jp/japanpodshow/media/series01/zed/zed_short_320.mp4) [.mp4 56mb] Cirque du Soleil Founded in 1984, this incredible company [official site] now has 16 shows running around the world - in Las Vegas alone over 9,000 people witness the spectacle on a daily basis. Zed In the Autumn of 2008 Cirque Du Soleil's first permanent show in Japan, Zed, opened to the public in a special purpose-built theatre next to Tokyo Disneyland [official site]. Hearing rave reviews from friends, George and Joseph realised that this was their chance to learn about what goes on behind the curtain at Cirque du Soleil Tokyo, and perhaps to even try out their routine in a bid to get into the show. There are two versions of this video docucast: a 10 minute short, and the 20 minute director's edition. The 9min preview video Designed for people who are impossibly busy, this video will give you an overview of George and Joseph's adventure. This is the version that has been added to the podcast feed. The Full story Japan Podshow: Behind the curtain at the Cirque du Soleil Zed Theatre Tokyo (http://vimeo.com/5948592) from japanpodshow (http://vimeo.com/japanpodshow) on Vimeo (http://vimeo.com). The full version of the documentary is for those who would like a real insight into the Cirque du Soleil Tokyo Theatre and includes (http://pokya.jp/japanpodshow/wp-content/uploads/2009/08/gemma_250.jpg) An interview with Gemma Segarra, Publicity Manager who tells us about * The history of the theatre * The families of performers * How she feels when she sees her friends walk the highwire * If George jumped, would Joseph catch him? (http://pokya.jp/japanpodshow/wp-content/uploads/2009/08/clown250.jpg) Interview with a clown - Anatoli Akerman Was Anatoli always destined to be a clown, or is he the black sheep of the family? Is Joseph's fear of him only to be expected? Interview with audience members after the show How would you feel if you'd just seen the show? Backstage in the wardrobe department George and Joseph are presented with two very special costumes in which they will try out their new routine. Do they have what it takes to get in? Do we find out, or will we have to wait for the sequal? George and Joseph would like to extend special thanks to Gemma Segarra, Anatoli Akerman, the wardobe department, the audience members gave their feedback, and all at Cirque du Soleil Theatre Tokyo for making this possible. We welcome your feedback What did you think of the docucast? Is there something you'd like us to cover on an upcoming show? Get in touch! You can * Comment on this blog * Join our Facebook group (http://www.facebook.com/pokya) * Follow us on Twitter (http://www.twitter.com/japanpodshow) * Skype (skype:japanpodshow?call) or phone us * Subscribe to our YouTube channel (http://www.youtube.com/japanpodshow) * Subscribe to our Vimeo Channel (http://www.vimeo.com/japanpodshow) (for long videos) * Subscribe to our uStream channel

 Episode 8: Learning Japanese (and the Food Processor of Doom) | File Type: audio/mpeg | Duration: 52:26

(http://pokya.jp/japanpodshow/wp-content/uploads/2009/08/ep8_japanpodshow.jpg) The long-awaited episode 8 is now out ...and jam-packed with Japan Podshow goodness. Listen to the show here 49mb, 52 mins, MP3 (http://pokya.jp/japanpodshow/media/series01/japanpodshow-ep008_learning-japanese.mp3) Download it direct here (http://tr.im/vfkX), Subscribe and listen in iTunes (http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewPodcast?id=310413183) or Listen via our RSS feed (http://feeds2.feedburner.com/JapanPodshow). If you have a slow internet connection we have a lower-quality version (also MP3) which you can download here. (http://tr.im/vfjj) Back from their solar eclipse travels, George and Joseph have a lot of treat in store - kicking off with an interview with Hiko Saemon (aka Simon) of YouTube fame. Learning Japanese Part 1: Interview with Hiko Saemon Hiko Saemon is the creator of original, inspiring bilingual videos on YouTube, designed for learners of Japanese who would like to see a bit more of the 'normal' Japan (and less of the singing on trains), and Japanese YouTubers who like to watch quality content from non-Japanese producers. In this interview he tells us how he got into YouTubing, why he has a healthy right-wing fan base, and how it was that he came to be so good at Japanese. Simon is also working hard to promote the use of Creative Commons in Japan - check out the Creative Commons YouTube channel here. (http://youtube.jp/creativecommonsjp) Here's one of his videos by way of introduction. You can find Simon online in the following places Hiko Saemon You Tube channel (http://www.youtube.com/hikosaemon) (Japanese with English subtitles) Hiko Talk YouTube channel (http://www.youtube.com/hikotalk) (English with some Japanese subtitles) Hiko Saemon on Blog TV (http://www.blogtv.com/People/Hikosaemon) In the interview Simon also mentioned Ken Tanaka's You Tube Channel (http://www.youtube.com/user/helpmefindparents), and Kevin Cooney's BlogTV channel (http://www.blogtv.com/People/TokyoCooney). Here's Simon's guide to Learning Japanese fast (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KGPK8ZhCTj4&eurl=http%3A%2F%2Fwww%2Eyoutube%2Ecom%2Fuser%2FHikosaemon&feature=player_profilepage)! George and the JET Programme Next up, George reveals all as he tells us about the JET programme - a Japanese Government 'scheme' that places English-speaking university graduates in schools as teachers all across the country every year. It's the doorway to Japan that many non-Japanese enter through. But what's it like? Listen to George tell us how he found it to be a little tough at times. Learning Japanese Part 2: A multi-pronged approach Learning Japanese is back!! After a three year break (it first featured on A Year in Japan (http://www.ayearinjapan.com)) this section is back to help you get on with mastering the language. Each week we'll be giving you a couple of tips, or 'Prongs' as we prefer to refer to them. This week we start with some BIG ideas to consider. Keep listening for more detailed advice in future episodes. The book Joseph talked about was Remembering the Kanji: Complete Course on How Not to Forget the Meaning and Writing of Japanese Characters v. 1 (http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/0824831659?ie=UTF8&tag=tagowi-21&linkCode=as2&camp=1634&creative=19450&creativeASIN=0824831659)(http://www.assoc-amazon.co.uk/e/ir?t=tagowi-21&l=as2&o=2&a=0824831659). Photography Top Ten! and The View From Japan Shane Sakata of the Nihon Sun (http://www.nihonsun.com/) then joins us to bring us news of a new collaborative photo site called A View From Japan (http://www.theviewfromjapan.com/). Every day one of their talented contributors posts a new image from Japan, to give you a pictorial insight into the country they call home. Shane also provides us with the Photographer's Top Ten for when coming to Japan - what you can't afford to miss with your lens!

 Post-eclipse special: 100% Shanghai | File Type: audio/mpeg | Duration: 9:08

(http://pokya.jp/japanpodshow/wp-content/uploads/2009/07/shanghaispecial.jpg) In this special short episode of Japan Podshow George calls in via Skype from China for an update on the total solar eclipse. Listen to the show here 8.3mb, 10 mins, MP3 (http://pokya.jp/japanpodshow/media/series01/Japan_Podshow_Shanghai_eclipse_special.mp3) Download it direct here (http://tr.im/ub3n), Subscribe and listen in iTunes (http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewPodcast?id=310413183) or Listen via our RSS feed (http://feeds2.feedburner.com/JapanPodshow) With much of Japan witnessing only a 70% partial solar eclipse, many serious eclipse-chasers headed off to China to witness minutes of total darkness. George was one such person, and in this mini-special, recorded the day after the eclipse, he tells us what it was like to witness a complete eclipse. He also talks about busking in China, and some strange food that he's been eating. Joseph also talks a little about the climb up Mt. Fuji to view the eclipse over here.

 Pre-Eclipse Special – Climbing Mount Fuji (intro) | File Type: audio/mpeg | Duration: 13:27

(http://pokya.jp/japanpodshow/wp-content/uploads/2009/07/FujEclipse600600.jpg) In this special short (relaxed) episode of Japan Podshow (which is not episode 8!) we find George and Joseph sitting in a park in Ikebukuro talking about the Total Solar Eclipse on the 22nd July 2009. Listen to the show here 12mb, 13 mins, MP3 (http://pokya.jp/japanpodshow/media/series01/JapanPodshowPreClipseSpecial.mp3) Download it direct here (http://tr.im/tgaX), Subscribe and listen in iTunes (http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewPodcast?id=310413183) or Listen via our RSS feed (http://feeds2.feedburner.com/JapanPodshow) George will be heading to China to witness the eclipse in its full glory, whilst Joseph will be scaling the heights of Mount Fuji to attempt to set several world records including: - The first live broadcast from the top of Japan's 3,776 metre Mount Fuji utilising the just-launched DoCoMo 3G network - The first podcast to have been recorded on top of a live volcano under a solar eclipse - The first time that The Sound of Music has been performed in the crater of a volcano causing it to errupt IMPORTANT TIMES TO NOTE for Live Streaming: * Tuesday 21st July 22:00 JST (14:00 BST / 13:00 UTC) - Start of hike * Wednesday 22nd July 04:39 JST (Tuesday 21st 20:39 BST / 17:39 UTC) - Sunrise from the peak of Mt. Fuji * Wednesday 22nd July 10:00 JST (02:00 BST / 01:00 UTC) - Start of the solar eclipse * Wednesday 22nd July 15:00 JST (07:00 BST / 06:00 UTC) - Leave Mount Fuji Japan podshow has created a special page where you can follow all the action as it happens: Special live feed page for the FujEclipse hike: http://japanpodshow.storytlr.com/ (http://japanpodshow.storytlr.com/) We'll be using Twitter (@japanpodshow (http://www.twitter.com/japanpodshow) @tamegoeswild (http://www.twitter.com/tamegoeswild)) Flickr (http://www.flickr.com/photos/tamegoeswild) YouTube (http://www.youtube.com/japanpodshow) AudioBoo (http://audioboo.fm/profile/japanpodshow) and possibly (network allowing) uStream (http://www.ustream.tv/japanpodshow). An alternative feed can be found here (http://japanpodshow.tumblr.com/) (http://pokya.jp/japanpodshow/wp-content/uploads/2009/07/FujEclipsefeeed.jpg) In the event that we are able to use uStream to stream live video (it all depends on the speed of the network on the summit) that will be available here: Online video chat by Ustream (http://www.ustream.tv/) The weather looks set to be terrible, so it should be a lot of fun! You can participate by sending twitter tweets containing the tag #fujeclipse (http://search.twitter.com/search.atom?q=%23fujeclipse) George and Joseph also talked about their new mini-podcasts, Japan Podshorts - read about that and subscribe here (http://pokya.jp/japanpodshow/japan-podshorts/). Look forward to seeing you there! (in a figurative sense). Normal Japan Podshow service will resume when George is back from China at the end of July.

 Episode 7: Wwoof Wwoof! The iPhone Giveaway | File Type: audio/mpeg | Duration: 43:24

(http://pokya.jp/japanpodshow/wp-content/uploads/2009/07/Episode-7400.jpg)Episode 7 sees the launch of the Japan Podshow iPhone 3G competition - win yourself an iPhone and feel that your life is complete. More on that below. Listen to the show here 40mb, 43 mins, MP3 (http://pokya.jp/japanpodshow/media/series01/JapanPodshow7_WwoofWwoof_the-iPhone-giveaway.mp3) Download it direct here (http://tr.im/r2gt), Subscribe and listen in iTunes (http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewPodcast?id=310413183) or Listen via our RSS feed (http://feeds2.feedburner.com/JapanPodshow) Note about the Japan Podshow livestream (http://ustream.com/japanpodshow) on uStream: In this episode Joseph and George make numerous references to live-streaming. Unfortunately, due to technical issues this video is not available. However, we did film the competition section on a second camera, and those videos are available on our Facebook Page. (http://www.facebook.com/pokya) In this episode: Japanese weddings: We kick of with some news from George about a wedding that he attended last week - an extraordinarily extravagent affair which at the end of the day saw him being given a catalogue of expensive gifts from which he was to choose a present - for himself! WWOOF JAPAN (http://pokya.jp/japanpodshow/wp-content/uploads/2009/07/wwoof_japan_logo.gif) As the title of this week's episode suggests, we're going to be taking a look at Wwoofing. It was almost a decade ago that Joseph first joinded WWOOF Japan - Willing Workers on Organic Farms http://www.wwoofjapan.com (http://www.wwoofjapan.com). In this episode Joseph talks to Glenn in Sapporo - founder of Wwoof Japan. Members of this fantastic organisation are able to stay with any of hundreds of families across Japan who are engaged in organic farming, or who otherwise have organic lifestyles/businesses. Wwoofing is not only a great way to travel a country over an extended period of time on a small budget, but is also a fantastic way to see more than the shiney-touristy surface that is promoted in the guide books. You get to learn about the culture, learn the language, make friends and a create a wealth of precious memories. Thoroughly recommended! What brought George and Joseph to Japan? Following listener requests, George and Joseph decide to reveal a little information about their dark pasts. This week Joseph tells us what path it was that led him to Japan. Week 6 Otaku Encyclopedia Competition results! We announce the winner of the Otaku Encyclopedia competition - our most-entered competition to date! Following accusations of competition-rigging, Joseph and George decide to film the drawing of the winner from the hat of doom - see the video on their facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/pokya for the evidence. (http://pokya.jp/japanpodshow/wp-content/uploads/2009/07/wianiphone300.jpg) WIN AN IPHONE!!! Yes, you can win an iPhone 3G with Japan Podshow - and it's easy to enter! Just listen to this episode for further instructions! The photo we talk about in this epsisode is here (http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=2045705&id=90715847794&ref=mf) Terms and conditions below. Listener Feedback! WOW! We had a tonne of feedback this week - thanks to everyone who contacted us - listen to the show for our comments on what you had to say. (http://pokya.jp/japanpodshow/wp-content/uploads/2009/07/joinusonfacebook.jpg)Check out our Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/pokya (http://www.facebook.com/pokya) Music Finally: music this week is provided by Her Space Holiday, with the Japanese Gum Dental Mix. Find them at http://www.herspaceholiday.com/ (http://www.herspaceholiday.com/) Thanks for listening - and we look forward to hearing from you! iPhone competition info: If you don't have a Facebook account, you can enter by leaving a comment on this post - just tell us why YOU should win the iPhone 3G.

 Episode 6: Otaku Attack! | File Type: audio/mpeg | Duration: 36:31

(http://pokya.jp/japanpodshow/wp-content/uploads/2009/06/japanpodshow-episode6_otakuattack-300x288.png)In episode 6 of Japan Podshow, George and Joseph, prevented from leaving the house by the start of the rainy season, come to you live from the kitchen table. Listen to the show here 34mb, 33 mins, MP3 (http://pokya.jp/japanpodshow/media/series01/JapanPodshow_Ep6_OtakuAttack.mp3) Download it direct here (http://tr.im/pKAA), Subscribe and listen in iTunes (http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewPodcast?id=310413183) or Listen via our RSS feed (http://feeds2.feedburner.com/JapanPodshow) Entrepreneur Interview: James Rees It's a jam-packed episode, featuring two interviews: the first is with James Rees, an entrepreneur based in Tokyo who operates an import-export business, making use of Japan's hidden 'naishoku' system (hosuewives doing piecemeal work at home to earn a few extra pennies, as seen in 'The Last Samurai'), and a niche market that he discovered through his interest in ...carp fishing. As well as giving an overview of how his business works, James talks about the problems he's faced, and gives some advice to others wanting to set up their own companies. Interview: Patrick Galbraith, author of The Otaku Encyclopedia (http://pokya.jp/japanpodshow/wp-content/uploads/2009/06/patrick_galbraith_otaku_japanpodshow.jpg) (http://pokya.jp/japanpodshow/2009/06/episode-6-otaku-attack/) (http://pokya.jp/japanpodshow/wp-content/uploads/2009/06/otaku-209x300.png)The second interview is with Patrick Galbraith, author of the brand new book The Otaku Encyclopedia: An Insiders Guide to the Subculture of Cool Japan (http://www.amazon.co.jp/gp/product/4770031017?ie=UTF8&tag=pokyaj-22&linkCode=as2&camp=247&creative=7399&creativeASIN=4770031017)(http://www.assoc-amazon.jp/e/ir?t=pokyaj-22&l=as2&o=9&a=4770031017) - a copy of which you can win in this week's competition. Patrick, a regular contributor to Metropolis Magazine (which features Patrick's book as it's front-page story this week, and the podcast of which features Joseph once a week) knows more about Otaku sub-cultures in Japan than anyone else would dare to know - what started as a 600 page volume of his own notes on Otaku has now become a fantastic 200 page A-Z of everything Otaku you might find in Tokyo. There's more information about Patrick in our Guest section (http://pokya.jp/japanpodshow/guests/patrick-galbraith-otaku-encyclopedia/). WIN A COPY OF THE OTAKU ENCYCLOPEDIA! In this week's competition you have the chance to win a copy of the enclyclopeadia - just email your answer to the VERY EASY QUESTION to hello [at] japanpodshow.com Winners of www.Rinkya.com commission from Episode 5 (http://pokya.jp/japanpodshow/media/series01/shownotes/rinkya.png)Congratulations to all of our winners of the Rinkya.com (http://www.rinkya.com) commission competition. The following people have each won $20 for use on the the fantastic Japan Auction & Online Shopping Service. For those of you who didn't win, remember that it's free to sign up with Rinkya - so go check them out (http://www.rinkya.com)! Winners: * Rick Martin * Miako Kuran * Brett Fyfield * Daniel Jones Listener's feedback Thank you for all the feedback this week, * Mark (from Illinois?) * Vinai Norasakkunkit * Everyone over on the Japan Soc blog article (http://www.japansoc.com/Foreigners/same-old-debito-now-in-audio-format/) * @tokyodan (http://www.twitter.com/tokyodan) * @sireneast (http://www.twitter.com/sireneast) * @shanesakata (http://www.twitter.com/shanesakata) * @nandeyanenpod (http://www.twitter.com/nandeyanenpod) * @rainbowhill (http://www.twitter.com/rainbowhill) * @fatblueman (http://www.twitter.com/fatblueman) * @meganechan (http://www.twitter.com/meganechan) * @orchid64 (http://www.twitter.com/orchid64) * @nickramsey (http://www.twitter.com/nichramsay) Band of the Week: Johnsons Motorcar

Comments

Login or signup comment.