Best Produced By Zenstudio Podcasts (2025)

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What people don't understand about the anime industry 1:22:57

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10h ago1:22:57

1:22:57

Today we talk to Bellamy, an animator an character designer living in Japan who has worked on projects such as the animated series The Digital Circus. We explore what it takes to produce an episode across with a team of animators, stereotypes about the anime industry, and what it takes to draw anime "authentically".Follow Bellamy: https://www.bella…

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What it takes to be a published manga author in Japan 1:02:46

4d ago1:02:46

1:02:46

On this episode we talk to Linnea, a Manga illustrator based in Tokyo who illustrates for series such as Idol Royale. We dive into her journey becoming a full-time illustrator in Japan and what it's like breaking into the competitive manga industry. Linnea also shares what it's like working with publishers and all the things an illustrator needs to…

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How Wakkyai gaslit Japan into thinking cap throwing is a real sport 50:25

7d ago50:25

50:25

Today we sit down with Wakkyai, a Japanese comedian and content creator who grew up in California before returning to Japan. Wakkyai shares what it’s like to grow up in Japan with an international background. We explore his experiences teaching Japanese, how he navigates identity and culture, and the unique challenges and rewards of living in Japan…

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What people don't understand about otaku culture ft. ⁨@AroundAkibaTV⁩ 1:10:14

11d ago1:10:14

1:10:14

Today we sit down with Tristan, founder of Kaikoku Ko. and Around Akiba TV, and talk about his love for exploring Akihbara's unique culture. We'll discuss the unique cultural experiences that have evolved in Akihabara, the different ways it has changed over the years, and Tristan's journey creating his own business in Japan. Follow Kaikoku and Arou…

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Matt vs. Japan's secret to Japanese fluency 1:20:01

14d ago1:20:01

1:20:01

On this episode we talk with Matt from ⁨@mattvsjapan⁩ to talk about his method for efficiently reaching fluency in a language, and his personal journey to becoming known as one of the best Japanese speaking Westerners online.Follow Matt: https://www.youtube.com/@mattvsjapan https://www.instagram.com/mattvsjapan_/ https://x.com/mattvsjapan https://w…

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Ryokan owner shares the secret to Japanese hospitality 1:08:51

18d ago1:08:51

1:08:51

Today we talk to Tyler, the owner of a traditional Japanese ryokan in Gunma Prefecture. We discuss what it’s like running a ryokan as a foreigner in Japan—from building an outdoor onsen bath by hand, to navigating guest expectations and preserving Japanese hospitality culture. Tyler also shares stories of trial, error, and joy that come with life i…

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Architect explains Tokyo's unique skyline 1:11:25

20d ago1:11:25

1:11:25

In today's episode we talk to Astrid, an architect who talks to us about the journey of becoming an architect in Japan, the differences in regulations in Japan vs the West, and the rewarding feeling of leaving an architectural mark on a city. Follow Astrid https://www.klein-dytham.com /https://www.instagram.com/klein_dytham_architecture Follow us o…

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Tokyo Portfolio explains why the Japanese real estate market is changing 1:34:10

26d ago1:34:10

1:34:10

Today we invite back Alex from Tokyo Portfolio to talk more in depth about the changes to Japan's real estate market. Tokyo Portfolio is a team of real estate experts made by expats who specialize in real estate in Tokyo, often showcasing Japan's most expensive luxury properties on their YouTube channel. Today we go over the changes with Tokyo Port…

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Meilyne on building GeeXPlus and the secrets to its success 1:08:09

29d ago1:08:09

1:08:09

Today we talk to Meilyne, the director and president of Tokyo based content creator management company GeeXPlus! Meilyne and her team at GeeXPlus help bring content creators to Japan and provide various management services, and she has helped start and produce projects such as Trash Taste. Meilyne talks about getting started in this industry, what …

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Professional cosplayers in Japan need to be PERFECT ft. @YURIKOTIGERjp 1:08:19

1M ago1:08:19

1:08:19

Meet Yuriko Tiger, a professional cosplayer who sits down to talk with us about her 10-year career in Japan. She tells us about her beginnings in the idol industry, her viral appearance on Japanese TV, and the challenges of being the official cosplayer for some of Japan's biggest IP.--0:00 Intro0:53 Meet Yuriko Tiger1:59 Yuriko's start doing idol d…

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What life is like for a bunny girl hostess in Tokyo ft. @silviethequeen 57:42

1M ago57:42

57:42

Today we sit down with bunny girl hostess Silvie, who talks to us about what life is really like as a bunny girl in Japan. We talk about the interactions with customers, safety, explain the ranking system, and many of the questions people often think of when hearing about this unique part of Japan's culture. Follow Silvie https://www.youtube.com/@s…

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The adventurous life of the first J-vlogger (and why he came back to retire in Japan) ft. softypapa 1:11:49

1M ago1:11:49

1:11:49

Meet Kurt, aka @softypapa , an early j-vlogger who started uploading videos to YouTube all the way back in 2006. Kurt sits down to talk to us about his early YouTube fame, starting a business and going bankrupt in Japan, and what losing everything taught him about life.As well, he tells us about his journey moving back and forth from Japan, startin…

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Economist debunks Japan's "stagnant" economy 1:22:26

2M ago1:22:26

1:22:26

On today's episode we talk with Jesper, A.K.A the Japanoptimist, an economist with a unique perspective on Japan's current economy. Jesper is bullish on Japan's economic future and the opportunities for change that seem to be approaching quickly. Today he'll go over the reasons why he has a positive outlook despite the strong current wave of bearis…

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Psychologist talks mental health issues faced by foreigners in Japan 1:04:15

2M ago1:04:15

1:04:15

Meet Mira, a Serbian psychologist practicing in Japan, treating foreign residents and travelled Japanese patients. She sits down to talk with us about mental health in Japan, and her work with traditional and RTT therapy.--0:00 Intro0:54 Meet Mira 1:08 What brings you to Japan 1:30 Were you interested in Japan before coming 3:38 Expectations of Jap…

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Reporting on the dark side of Japanese society, with CNN Asia correspondent Hanako Montgomery 1:05:08

2M ago1:05:08

1:05:08

On today's episode we sit down with CNN international correspondent, Hanako Montgomery, who covers breaking news and fascinating stories in Japan & other regions of Asia. We discuss what it's like reporting on breaking news, the importance of proper journalism on society, and the intricacies that go behind covering controversial stories. Hanako has…

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NieR Automata singer J'Nique Nicole on performing video game music in Japan 59:08

2M ago59:08

59:08

Today we talk to J'Nique Nicole, singer-songwriter who you may have heard from games like NieR: Automata, Final Fantasy, or Street Fighter. J'Nique tells us about her journey in Japan in the music industry, advice for those looking to pursue a career as a singer, and how NieR completely changed the trajectory of her career. Follow J'Nique Nicole: h…

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How this theater instructor is saving Japan's struggling theater scene 1:01:53

2M ago1:01:53

1:01:53

On this episode we talk with Larisa, a stage manager that founded and is director of International Stage Academy. She talks about what it's like teaching performing arts in Japan and the ways in which theater education can be improved in Japan's theater scene to help students find success. We discuss what it takes to make it to Broadway, the differ…

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What life is like for immigrants working in Japan's growing retirement homes 46:04

2M ago46:04

46:04

Follow Eillen: https://www.tiktok.com/@Eillen78 Follow us on our social media: https://www.youtube.com/@unpackingjapan https://www.youtube.com/@unpackingjapanshorts https://www.instagram.com/unpacking_japan https://www.tiktok.com/@unpackingjapan https://www.x.com/unpacking_japan https://www.facebook.com/unpackingjapan Subscribe for more in-depth di…

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Bridging Vietnamese and Japanese cultures through music 1:04:37

2M ago1:04:37

1:04:37

Today we talk with Khôi, founder of the rock band Kurrock which blends Vietnamese and Japanese to create a unique musical experience. Khoi explains what it's like creating a band in Japan, working with the cultural differences, navigating challenges, and finding Kurrock's musical identity.Follow Khôi and Kurrock:https://www.kurrock.net/enhttps://ww…

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Why she quit a dream job at NASA to lead space missions for Japan 1:25:15

2M ago1:25:15

1:25:15

Today we sit down with Janelle, a former Nasa operations engineer, and current Flight Director working on lunar missions at a private space company in Tokyo. We dive into what it's like working in such high stake environments, what it takes to carry out a space mission, manning the control center, and the endless opportunities space exploration mea…

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What it's like to work in Japan's hometown revival program as a foreigner 1:02:01

3M ago1:02:01

1:02:01

In this episode we talk with Justin, a journalist who is based in Hokkaido working on rural revitalization programs. Justin explains the ways in which programs aim to keep lesser known rural communities alive through revitalization efforts including tourism PR, social programs, and a variety of other ways of stimulating the local economy. We also t…

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How Japanese rakugo is different than Western comedy 1:23:22

3M ago1:23:22

1:23:22

Today we talk with Sanyutei Kouseinen, one of the few foreigner professional rakugo performers. We talk about the differences between Western and Japanese comedy, what it's like to perform the traditional Japanese art as a foreigner, and the hard apprentice journey one must take to become a rakugo storyteller. Follow Sanyutei Kouseinen https://www.…

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Japanese sake is the old man's drink – how can you make it "cool"? 1:09:06

3M ago1:09:06

1:09:06

Sitting down with us today is co-founder of Heaven Sake, Carl, who is aiming to expand the Japanese sake industry in foreign markets by creating an iconic sake brand that shows off both the elegance and rich flavors of the traditional Japanese drink, as well as redefining it's image from the "old man's" drink to a more contemporary and luxurious fe…

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How David Hewett became one of Japan's most renowned artists 1:15:53

3M ago1:15:53

1:15:53

Today we're joined by one of Japan's most renowned artists, David Hewett. David has lived in Japan for 32 years and has become well known for his contemporary art which has been displayer in galleries and hotels due to it's unique style that that blend Western and Japanese techniques. David talks to us about what it's like being an artist in Japan,…

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Why traditional Japanese boatbuilding is dying and this American is their last chance to preserve it 1:14:25

3M ago1:14:25

1:14:25

Today we talk to Douglas, a boatbuilder who specializes in building traditional Japanese boats and has made an effort to keep this seemingly dying cultural tradition alive by learning from various masters around Japan. Not only does Douglas publish his research and teach at university classes, but his expertise has also allowed him to work on FX's …

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How Peter Barakan became Japan's most recognizable English TV host 1:26:24

3M ago1:26:24

1:26:24

Meet Peter Barakan, who you may know from NHK's Weekend Japanology (Now called Japanology Plus). Peter has hosted various TV shows as well as radio broadcasts introducing all kinds of music to both Japan and overseas. After living in Japan for over 50 years, Peter shares his experience in the industry and the various insights he learned along the w…

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Visual Kei to Final Fantasy: Endigo's Journey to Japan 1:07:24

3M ago1:07:24

1:07:24

Today we sit down with Endigo, a metal singer and overall musical artist who produces music, performs vocals for video games, and blends many genres to produce a truly unique catalogue of work. Endigo explains their experience finding their niche in Japan and how Japan's take on music and genres have also helped them discover things about themselve…

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How being punched by a teacher in Japan changed his life forever 1:33:16

3M ago1:33:16

1:33:16

Today kendo master and historical researcher, Alex, joins us to talk about his unexpected journey into the world of kendo as we deep dive into the practices and cultural background surrounding the way of the sword. Follow Alex Alex's website https://www.instagram.com/alex.bennett_budo_culture/?hl=en https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuEFJrxMVIzIix3Q…

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What it's like to run an English anime studio in Tokyo 1:07:43

4M ago1:07:43

1:07:43

Today we talk to Mar, founder and director of animation studio Mar Exposito, who will share with us insights of being an animator in Japan as well as the unique career path of creating your own studio vs joining an big anime studio.Liked this episode? Check out our interview with Joshua, a "foreigner" born and raised in Japan who shares his perspec…

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What it's like to feel like a foreigner in your own country ft. @joshuasjapanchannel 58:13

4M ago58:13

58:13

Today we sit with Joshua, who was born and raised in Japan despite his "foreign" appearance. Joshua is a content creator and is passionate about sharing stories like his, of foreigners living in Japan with unique backgrounds and stories that challenge many perspectives of what a "Japanese" person is. He shares his experiences born and raised in Jap…

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How Westerners are reviving this dying Japanese instrument @TairyuShakuhachi 58:46

4M ago58:46

58:46

Meet Shawn, a master shakuhachi player, who sits down to talk to us about the history and cultural significance of one of Japan's most ubiquitous, yet paradoxically unknown instruments.Shawn teaches us about the challenges of learning shakuhachi as well as his thoughts on the recent popularity of the instrument in the west. Stay tuned for a beautif…

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How Katsura Sunshine brought Japanese comedy to broadway 1:07:22

4M ago1:07:22

1:07:22

Today we are joined by Sunshine, a Rakugo storyteller who dives into the world of Rakugo and what it's like being one of the only foreigners to take on this role. We talk about the tradition of Rakugo storytelling, the apprentice-master dynamic, and the overall apprenticeship experience in the journey to becoming a Rakugo storyteller. Follow Sunshi…

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Importing Salmon and Pisco from Chile to Japan 57:51

4M ago57:51

57:51

Joining us today is Nury, a trade and agricultural attaché to the Embassy of Chile, who shares what it's like to bring new products from Chile to Japanese markets and how to navigate trade relations with Japan and all of it's meticulous business practices. Follow Nury: https://jp.linkedin.com/in/nury-disegni-gili-90750754 https://www.chile.gob.cl/j…

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Why Japan has so many unique fashion styles 52:39

5M ago52:39

52:39

Today we talk with Capsule Bunny, a content creator and fashion designer who makes content about Japanese fashion and it's subcultures in Japan. In this episode we take a dive into the world of J fashion and talk about Tenshi Kaiwai, designing clothes, and other unique aspects of Japan's fashion culture.Follow Capsule Bunny:https://www.instagram.co…

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Moving to Japan as a skilled tradesman 56:55

5M ago56:55

56:55

Today we are joined by Sergio, an American welder living and working in Japan. He shares his inspiring journey from U.S. shipyards to becoming the first foreign employee at a Japanese manufacturing company. We talk about his path to learning Japanese, getting the Specified Skilled Worker visa, adapting to life in Japan, and his thoughts on Japanese…

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Cultural differences between India and Japan ft. Nikhil_kun 1:03:32

5M ago1:03:32

1:03:32

Meet Nikhil, a content creator from India, who sits down to talk to us about his journey to Japan, becoming fluent in Japanese, and the anime that started it all.Follow Nikhil and his channel:https://www.youtube.com/@Nikhil_kunhttps://www.instagram.com/nikhil__kunJoin Nikhil Kun's WhatsApp Japanese Learning Group:https://chat.whatsapp.com/LggWDlqIV…

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Life lessons from Japanese car culture ft. Dino DC 1:01:39

5M ago1:01:39

1:01:39

Meet Dino, a car enthusiast, journalist and vlogger based in Japan, who sits down to talk to us about his journey into the Japanese car scene, why it's so diverse, and how foreigners can participate in Japan's unique car culture. Follow Dino:https://www.youtube.com/@dino_dchttps://dinodc.co/https://www.instagram.com/dino_dalle_carbonarehttps://www.…

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Why Japan is so behind on cybersecurity 56:37

6M ago56:37

56:37

Meet Chinyere, cyber security expert and personal finance consultant. She talks about Japan being extremely behind in cyber security knowledge and other topics. Follow Chinyere: https://thesistafund.com/ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC7UdPuAihqNSIv8-Eupfjyw https://www.linkedin.com/in/chinyere-okoli-816b2b64 https://www.facebook.com/thesistafund…

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Cultural differences between Japan and the Philippines 47:59

6M ago47:59

47:59

Meet Mickael, a half Japanese, half Filipino vlogger, who makes content about life in Japan in Tagalog. He sits down with us to share his story of growing up hafu in Japan, before rediscovering his roots in the Philippines. Follow Mickael on social media: https://www.tiktok.com/@mikasan__ https://www.youtube.com/@mikasan_ https://www.instagram.com/…

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How studying obscure Japanese arts can help you build a life in Japan 1:06:19

6M ago1:06:19

1:06:19

Meet Justin, a singer who has been studying the ancient art of shigin for more than 10 years, after accidentally discovering it one day while living in the Japanese countryside. He sits down with us to share his story of moving from Tennessee to Japan and falling in love with this beautiful, yet incredibly difficult, traditional art form. 00:00 Int…

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"Light in Japan is different. It just is." Photographer Joe Allam on moving to Japan 1:05:38

6M ago1:05:38

1:05:38

Meet Joe Allam, a British filmmaker and a photographer who was so fascinated by Japan that he decided to move to Osaka and restart his entire life in Japan. He sits down to talk with us about what makes Japan so special, how he avoids the Japan content trap, and his own inspirations as a filmmaker. Follow Joe Allam: https://joeallam.co.uk/about/ ht…

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Ananya's secret to Japanese fluency 55:36

6M ago55:36

55:36

Meet Ananya, who sits down with us to share her journey to Japan and unique perspective on living here as a content creator. Ananya makes both educational content to help teach Japanese, as well as comedic skits that reflect her personal experiences in Japan. Follow Ananya: https://www.instagram.com/hiananyaa_ https://www.youtube.com/@hiananyaa htt…

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LGBTQ+ Documentary Filmmaker Discusses Queer Rights in Japan 54:30

7M ago54:30

54:30

Meet Felicity, a filmmaker exploring the theme of identity through her documentary work in Japan. She sits down to talk with us about what she's learned about Japanese views on multiculturalism, awareness of queer issues, and the concept of what "home" is. Follow Felicity's work: https://www.instagram.com/wherenextjapan https://www.wherenextjapan.c…

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AV Actress June Lovejoy explains the Japanese porn industry 1:05:38

7M ago1:05:38

1:05:38

Meet AV star June Lovejoy, who sits down with us to break down all the misconceptions about the Japanese porn industry, and explore what life is like for workers in this profession. June shares their own personal experiences, their thoughts on the good and bad of the industry, and the ways it continues to change. Follow June: https://www.instagram.…

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Interviewing the most recognizable voice in Japan 59:24

7M ago59:24

59:24

Meet Donna Burke, a singer and voice actress in Japan most widely known as the voice of the Shinkansen. She sits down to talk to us about her 30-year career in Japan, from wedding singer to starring in franchises like Metal Gear, Silent Hill, and Tokyo Ghoul, as well as her life as an entrepreneur. Follow Donna: https://www.donnaburke.com/ https://…

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Is Japan still worth it for Asian immigrants? | How to work in Japan on a trainee visa 48:51

7M ago48:51

48:51

Meet Jheadear, a factory worker and content creator from the Philippines, who sits down to talk to us about the process of applying to become a technical trainee in Japan. We discuss her daily routines and workflow, her challenges in adapting to Japanese culture and work environment, as well as her work as an influencer helping her fellow Filipinos…

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Why Japan is at the forefront of the next AI revolution 59:36

8M ago59:36

59:36

Meet Jad, cofounder of Integral AI, a software developing a system called universal simulations, in order to help advance AGI (artificial general intelligence). He sits down to talk with us about the future of AI, and if we really can develop it in a way that benefits humanity. Follow Jad & Intergral AI https://www.x.com/jad_tarifi https://www.inte…

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Where Ricchaado's inspiration for skits about being black in Japan comes from 1:09:51

8M ago1:09:51

1:09:51

Meet Ricchaado, a comedian from the UK most known for his exaggerated skits about his experiences as a black foreigner in Japan. He sits down to talk to us about the inspirations behind his famous characters Momo-chan and Mr. Hashimoto, his other business endeavors, how Japanese and Western viewers see his content differently, and more. Follow Ricc…

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An honest conversation about animal rights in Japan, with a Kobe zoo veterinarian 1:21:34

8M ago1:21:34

1:21:34

Meet Dr. Miaka, a veterinarian at Kobe Animal Kingdom, who sits down to talk with us about her daily life taking care of the zoo's wide variety of animals, as well as discuss animal rights in Japan, the role of zoos in science and conservation, and how her zoo recreates the natural habitats of its animals. Follow Dr. Miaka and the Kobe Animal Kingd…

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Dogen's secret to Japanese fluency 1:40:49

8M ago1:40:49

1:40:49

For our 100th episode we are joined by one of Japan's most recognizable foreign content creators, pitch accent specialist, and writer, Dogen! In this long awaited interview, Dogen talks about his creative process, inspirations, and challenges he has faced through his journey in Japan, in creative writing, and content creation. Follow Dogen: https:/…