Sept. 20, 2024: Marijuana criminalization, whale meat, elders over 100, Shogun and Japanese sushi

In this episode, Jeff and Kong dive into topics ranging from Japan's upcoming cannabis laws to the resurgence of whale meat in Japan and record-breaking Emmy wins for a Japanese period drama. Plus, they tackle Japan's aging population and sushi chefs earning more overseas. Timestamps for the Main Stories: [0:00 - 0:11] – Intro Jeff introduces this week's key topics: new cannabis laws, whaling in Japan, population aging, Emmy wins for "Shogun," and a discussion on sushi chefs. [0:11 - 2:05] – Criminalizing Cannabis Use in Japan Japan will criminalize cannabis use on December 12th, with prison sentences of up to 7 years. Medical cannabis products will be legalized. [2:05 - 5:04] – Listener Comments on Cannabis Laws Comments from Japan Today readers: contrasting perspectives on Japan criminalizing cannabis vs. Western legalization trends. [5:07 - 7:34] – Whaling Industry Trying to Revive Whale Meat Demand Japan's whaling industry held a tasting event in Tokyo, offering whale meat to reignite consumer interest. We explore how whale meat consumption has changed and reader reactions. [7:34 - 9:01] – Listener Comments on Whale Meat A range of opinions, from nostalgia to environmental concerns, including the mention of mercury levels in whale meat. [9:19 - 11:06] – Japan's Aging Population: 100-Year-Old Milestone Japan now has over 95,000 centenarians, with nearly 90% of them being women. We discuss the societal implications of an aging population. [11:06 - 13:36] – Listener Comments on Japan's Elderly Population Readers share their personal experiences with pensions, medical expenses, and the struggles of Japan's elderly. [13:55 - 16:45] – Shogun Miniseries Sets Emmy Records The historical drama "Shogun" became the first non-English-language series to win Best Drama at the Emmys. Hiroyuki Sanada and Anna Sawai also won individual awards. [16:46 - 17:32] – Listener Comments on Shogun's Emmy Success Discussion around the cultural impact of "Shogun" and its production. [19:59 - 23:30] – Sushi and Sushi Chefs Abroad Exploring how Japanese sushi chefs are in high demand overseas, where they can earn more than they do in Japan. Listener reactions to the statement from the principal of a sushi academy. [23:31 - 25:23] – Wrap-Up Closing thoughts and a call to comment on the discussed topics. Jeff and Kong sign off and encourage listeners to stay updated with Japan Today's news.