How this Tokyo chef broke free from the stereotypical immigrant restaurant
Today we talk to Kanchan, a Nepalese entrepreneur in Tokyo who runs both a restaurant and a fashion brand. From humble beginnings to creating a community hub, Adi shares what it was like building a bu...
4 Nov 202555min
40 years of crazy stories from a Japanese wedding MC
Today we talk to Greg Irwin, a voice actor, singer, and wedding MC living in Japan. Greg shares what it’s like to hear your own voice all over Japan—from train stations and commercials to iconic roles...
31 Okt 20251h 11min
How Japanese pop culture conquered the world ft. Matt Alt
Today we talk with Matt Alt, a writer, translator, and long time resident of Japan who you may recognize from appearances on Japanology. Matt shares how his childhood fascination with Japan shaped his...
28 Okt 20251h 14min
What life is like after 20 years as a professional Japanese mahjong player
Today we talk to Jenn, a professional mahjong player and content creator based in Japan. She shares her journey into the world of Japanese mahjong, what sets it apart from other styles, and what it's ...
24 Okt 20251h 4min
The challenges of doing business between Africa and Japan
Today we talk to Serges, a multi-business entrepreneur based in Japan. He shares his journey from Africa to Japan, and how he founded companies like Dove Innovations and Japan Connect, which bridges J...
21 Okt 202558min
What it's like to gain citizenship after growing up in Japan as a foreigner
On this episode we talk to Idai, a successful model in Japan, even being featured in Vogue. We talk about her unique experience growing up black in Japan and how she became comfortable in her own skin...
17 Okt 202548min
More people should know about Japan's gun martial art
Today on Unpacking Japan, we’re joined by Matt, a gunner and Japanese interpreter from Matsumoto, Japan, with deep knowledge of Japan’s lesser-known gun history. We dive into the fascinating and world...
14 Okt 202559min
Japanese MMA is actually insane
On this episode we talk with Stephane, an MMA fighter in Japan. Stephane goes in depth about being an MMA fighter, like what it's like to learn various kinds of fighting styles, dieting for weigh ins,...
10 Okt 202555min
