9 episodes

Discover the authentic pulse of Japan through the lens of a local Japanese perspective!
If you are interested in Japan or have a plan of coming here and need more hands-on, local insights into the latest news & trends, cultural nuances and the Japanese psyche, search no further!  
Join  JAPAN EDGE, where episodes are curated by a native Japanese who was born and raised in Tokyo, with over 16 years of experience living abroad. Topics include personal perspectives on the news and culture as well as introducing trendy food, exciting events, and beyond!Each episode will also feature soundbites of a J-pop song, giving you a taste of the popular music in Japan.Let's embark on a journey to Japan together!

JAPAN EDGE- Japan Trends & Tales: Exploring News, Culture, Entertainment, Food, and Beyond‪!‬ The Edge, Inc.

    • Society & Culture

Discover the authentic pulse of Japan through the lens of a local Japanese perspective!
If you are interested in Japan or have a plan of coming here and need more hands-on, local insights into the latest news & trends, cultural nuances and the Japanese psyche, search no further!  
Join  JAPAN EDGE, where episodes are curated by a native Japanese who was born and raised in Tokyo, with over 16 years of experience living abroad. Topics include personal perspectives on the news and culture as well as introducing trendy food, exciting events, and beyond!Each episode will also feature soundbites of a J-pop song, giving you a taste of the popular music in Japan.Let's embark on a journey to Japan together!

    Cultural History of Demons – Going Deeper into the World of “Demon Slayer”

    Cultural History of Demons – Going Deeper into the World of “Demon Slayer”

    The highly anticipated new season of "Demon Slayer" is just around the corner, set to premiere globally on May 12th!  So, I figured this would be the perfect timing to delve into the cultural history of demons in Japan.

    What were the roots of the demons in Japan?
    What role did these supernatural beings play in the Japanese culture?
    What were their implications?

    I have also shared a folktale of two demons, a story known to most of us here in Japan. After listening to this story, how would you feel about "demons"?...
    I hope this episode will add a new angel to the Demon Slayer and allow you to enjoy the story with a much deeper perspective!

    • 12 min
    Tokyo's Ever-Evolving Real Estate Landscape: Developers and Their Latest Projects

    Tokyo's Ever-Evolving Real Estate Landscape: Developers and Their Latest Projects

    This podcast explores Tokyo's real estate development scene, diving into the competitive landscape and spotlighting key developers along with their rich histories and characteristics. 

    We'll also delve into how these developers have left their mark on the city of Tokyo and discuss some of the latest new projects and those underway!

    Today's opening & ending song:
    "TOKYO", by JuJu
    https://youtu.be/9KfaRO9L9Xk?si=-I-7rqPFAzAleGqE

    Also check out my very first youtube v-log on JAPAN EDGE YOUTUBE CHANNEL!
    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zFlXXqPOvDY&t=3s

    • 20 min
    JAPAN Is Shrinking AND Aging!!

    JAPAN Is Shrinking AND Aging!!

    In this episode, we delve into Japan's demographic crisis, where a declining birthrate and aging population pose significant challenges.  We explore the government's latest attempt to address this issue with a new bill.  

    We will also examine the population disparities across Japan, focusing on the concentration of residents in Tokyo and neighboring prefectures, and the struggles faced by rural areas. 

    I hope this episode will provide you with insight on the complexities of Japan's demographic dilemma.

    Opening & ending song for today's episode:

    "Time Paradox", by Vaundy.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kmf9macu4KU


    The above link will take you to the trailer of the latest movie of "DORAEMON", for which this song was created.  It runs on the end-roll of the movie.   It's so fitting to the story of the movie.  This, by the way, was one of my favorite DORAEMON  movies.

    Enjoy!

    • 12 min
    The Ippei Indictment - How Japanese Responded, and Why We Love Shohei So Much

    The Ippei Indictment - How Japanese Responded, and Why We Love Shohei So Much

    This episode of Japan Edge provides insights into how the Shohei incident has been perceived in Japan.  

    In addition,  I will be sharing stories that illustrates Shohei's character and his devotion to baseball, which has been clear and consistent throughout the years.

    This episode will most likely give you a better idea of Japanese long-standing support for Shohei.



    The opening & ending song for this episode is 

    "Photograph" , by Tokyo Skyparadise Orchestra & ATSUSHI.

    It was the theme song of the 2023 Summer National Highschool Baseball Tournament, the "Koshien", which was the stage where Shohei Ohtani first became a national sensation.

    Please enjoy the song on youtube!
    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XhdpUbegbOQ

    • 18 min
    Story of the First Japanese Female Judge, Now Airing on NHK- "The Tiger and Her Wings"

    Story of the First Japanese Female Judge, Now Airing on NHK- "The Tiger and Her Wings"

    In today's episode, we shine a spotlight on the evolving dynamics of gender in Japan, drawing inspiration from NHK's latest morning serial drama, 'The Tiger and Her Wings'.

    Based on the remarkable true story of Yoshiko Mibuchi, Japan's pioneering female chief justice, this six-month drama offers a poignant reflection on the challenges and triumphs of women in a traditionally male-dominated profession. 

    As we explore Yoshiko's journey and the societal context of her time, we'll also examine a recent court case that highlights the enduring influence of traditional gender perceptions in Japan. 

    Join us as we navigate through history, culture, and contemporary issues to gain deeper insights on Japan!


    Opening and ending song for this episode:
    "LADY" by Yonetsu Genshi
    *He just released a new song, "Sayonara", which is used as a theme song for "The Tiger and Her Wings".   Great song, so check it out!

    • 20 min
    FX/Hulu Series “Shogun” from the eyes of historical-drama loving Japanese - combination of truths turned into fascinating fiction

    FX/Hulu Series “Shogun” from the eyes of historical-drama loving Japanese - combination of truths turned into fascinating fiction

    Are you following FX/Hulu TV Series "Shogun"?  
    You'd better, because it is just amazing!   Trust me, since it's coming from a native Japanese who's loved historical dramas all her life!

    Shogun is a blend of fact and fiction while staying true to the essence of history.  The story is built in such a unique way that it resonates with the truth of the era.

    This podcast episode aims to  give you insights behind the characters of Shugun: Toranaga, Ishido, and Taiko.   Who were they in real life?  What were the dynamics among these protagonists?  

    I hope this episode will make Shogun even more enjoyable for you to watch!


    Op & ed song of this episode:
    "Hosoyuki" (Snowflakes)  by Wagakki Band

    • 14 min

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