Join us in this encore episode as Angela Betancourt shares her must-do experiences in Tokyo, from riding the bullet train to exploring iconic spots like Shibuya Crossing and Senso-ji Temple. She also covers food options, navigating the city, and helpful tips for first-time and family travelers!
This week on Drop A Pin we are venturing to Japan, in the first of many episodes diving into this country with extremely interesting cultures and history. This week we talk about the baseball scene in Japan and how Donnie met Manny Ramirez while he was playing for the Kochi fighting dogs. We then di…This week on Drop A Pin we are venturing to Japan, in the first of many episodes diving into this country with extremely interesting cultures and history. This week we talk about the baseball scene in Japan and how Donnie met Manny Ramirez while he was playing for the Kochi fighting dogs. We then dive into their cafe culture and some of the unique wildlife Donnie has experienced in different Japanese cities.
We are also joined by legendary Hawaiian born sumo wrestler Konishiki. He was the first non-Japanese-born wrestler to reach the prestigious rank of ōzeki and was featured in Fast and Furious: Tokyo Drift, he tells us everything you've ever wondered to know about Sumo culture.
Timestamps:
(00:00:41) Pre Boarding (Show Start)
(00:03:49) Donnies First Trip to Japan
(00:04:41) How Donnie Met Many Ramirez
(00:16:43) Japanese Baseball Culture
(00:27:01) Japanese Trains
(00:31:21) Our Wildest Conversation Ever
(00:34:02) Convenience Store Food
(00:36:32) Tsukiji Fish Market
(00:48:18) Japanese Cafe Culture
(00:52:17) Japanese "Idols"
(01:01:08) The Deer of Nara
(01:03:46) Snow Monkeys of Nagano
(01:08:43) Konishiki Interview
(01:18:35) Day to Day Life of A Sumo
(01:26:18) Can sumo wrestlers play in the NFL
(01:31:58) How Konishiki got into Sumo
(01:40:59) Konishiki's Achievements
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Frommer's Author David McElhinney joined Pauline Frommer to discuss the culinary specialties of different Japanese regions, walking vacation opportunities that mirror the Camino de Santiago experience, ways to experience Japan's sizzling pop culture, and some strategies for saving money on a Japanes…Frommer's Author David McElhinney joined Pauline Frommer to discuss the culinary specialties of different Japanese regions, walking vacation opportunities that mirror the Camino de Santiago experience, ways to experience Japan's sizzling pop culture, and some strategies for saving money on a Japanese vacation.
Takeaways:
• Transportation in country is one of the highest costs travelers face, but buying a Japan Rail Pass may save you money. A look at its pros and cons.
• Accommodations can also take a bite out of the budget, so we discussed what capsule hotels are like, plus the more conventional but still affordable options most travelers prefer.
• Japan's culinary offerings are diverse and budget-friendly. We took a look at convenience store meals, Tokyo's Ramen scene, and the foods eaten in a region of Japan that has the most centenarians.
• Visiting off-the-beaten path Japan will get you out into some stunning nature areas, and into communities that really need the tourist business.
The Frommer's Travel Podcast was named one of the 13 best for travel by the New York Times. It is hosted by Pauline Frommer, the Publisher of the Frommer's guidebooks and Frommers.com, with new episodes issued weekly.
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Check out all of our other travel podcasts from around the world
This podcast is part of the Voyascape Travel Network, that brings together the world's best travel podcasts. You can find all of our podcasts from around the world at Voyascape.com.
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This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel at the Link below:
The incomparable actor, presenter and activist Jameela Jamil joins Tanya Rose to share her travel secrets this week.
In this episode, Jameela tells the tale of experiencing an earthquake in Tokyo, shares why she wants to grow older in Berlin and reveals why she always checks hotels aren’t haunted b…The incomparable actor, presenter and activist Jameela Jamil joins Tanya Rose to share her travel secrets this week.
In this episode, Jameela tells the tale of experiencing an earthquake in Tokyo, shares why she wants to grow older in Berlin and reveals why she always checks hotels aren’t haunted before staying the night…
Plus, Jameela shares how the lack of culture in Los Angeles helped her find herself and discusses why it’s so important to capture every waking moment of your travels.
Don’t forget to follow @travelsecretsthepodcast and remember, you can watch all of our episodes on YouTube.
Places mentioned:
London, England
Marbella, Spain
Pakistan
Barbados
The Peninsula, Tokyo
Lake Garda, Italy
Los Angeles, United States
Shangri-La, Mauritius
Berlin, Germany
Chapters
00:00 Intro
05:44 Secret 1: Number 1 travel destination everybody should go to
09:24 Secret 2: Most unexpected travel experience
11:08 Secret 3: Most Over or Underrated travel experience
20:14 Secret 5: Best Food & Drink while travelling
What happens when your brother calls and says, "Want to meet me in Japan?" If you're Adventurer Cosette, you don't think twice. In this episode, hosts Joe Saul-Sehy and Crystal Hammond sit down with Cosette to unpack a spontaneous, unforgettable journey that crisscrossed South Korea and Japan.
Fr…What happens when your brother calls and says, "Want to meet me in Japan?" If you're Adventurer Cosette, you don't think twice. In this episode, hosts Joe Saul-Sehy and Crystal Hammond sit down with Cosette to unpack a spontaneous, unforgettable journey that crisscrossed South Korea and Japan.
From wandering Seoul's vibrant night markets and exploring the DMZ, to immersing herself in the peaceful reflection of Hiroshima and hiking snowy trails to spy on wild snow monkeys, Cosette's story is packed with cultural depth, scenic beauty, and a little chaos (including a rough flight home!). Along the way, she dressed up for Ninja class, tackled Japan's legendary Nine Bath Challenge in Shibu Onsen, and uncovered hidden gems across Kyoto and Kanazawa.
If you've ever dreamed of diving into a new country on short notice, this episode is for you. The crew also shares practical travel hacks—like how to find last-minute flight deals, why power banks are non-negotiable, and what you should really expect from Mount Fuji.
Highlights include:
• What it's like to travel internationally on a whim
• How Korean and Japanese culture differ—and surprise you
• Packing tips and tech gear that saved the day
• Memorable stops: Hiroshima Peace Memorial, Kyoto's Bamboo Forest, and Tokyo's massive crowds
• Bonus challenge: Did Cosette complete all nine hot spring baths?
Whether you're planning your first overseas trip or just dreaming of adventure from your couch, this episode reminds you: the best stories happen when you say "yes."more
We’re taking you with us to vibrant, bustling Tokyo! From theme parks to tea ceremonies, ancient temples to glowing digital art museums, we packed our itinerary with the best of Japan’s capital city—and now we're sharing it all with you. Whether it’s your first trip to Tokyo or you’re planning a ret…We’re taking you with us to vibrant, bustling Tokyo! From theme parks to tea ceremonies, ancient temples to glowing digital art museums, we packed our itinerary with the best of Japan’s capital city—and now we're sharing it all with you. Whether it’s your first trip to Tokyo or you’re planning a return visit, this episode is full of helpful travel tips, must-do activities, and honest insights to help you experience the magic of Tokyo like a squad pro.
Download our 5 Day Tokyo Itinerary to make your trip planning even easier!
• Stay at the Rembrandt Style Tokyo Nishikasai Grande Hotel or DoubleTree by Hilton near the Kyoto Station
• Get an eSim from Airalo before you go and the Tokyo Tourist Subway Passes as soon as you get there
• Reserve your Tokyo Disney Sea tickets well ahead of time
• We highly recommend the Tea Ceremony Workshop, Sumo Wrestling Show the Onsen experience, and going to TeamLab Planets while it’s still there.
• Visit iconic sites like Sensoji Temple, Sumida Park, Nezu Shrine, and Ueno Park during cherry blossom season
• Stroll through Tsukiji Outer Market, sampling sushi, seafood, and Japanese street snacks
• Discover hidden gems like Hamarikyu Gardens and the peaceful Nezu Shrine away from the crowds
• Take in sweeping skyline views (for free!) from the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building’s observatory and catch their epic Godzilla-themed light show
Find more recommended activities in our Japan Experience's Viator Shop
Find a great flight deal to Tokyo by signing up for Thrifty Traveler Premium and watching the daily flight deals (points & cash) that are emailed directly to you! Use our promo code TS10 to get $10 off your first year subscription.
Connect: YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram and contact us at [email protected] to submit a question of the week or inquire about guest interviews and advertising. Submit a question of the week or inquire about guest interviews and advertising.more
We’re taking you aboard Singapore Airlines’ Premium Economy for their 10-hour flight from Tokyo to LAX. Was the experience worth the points? How does it compare to flying economy or splurging on business class? (P.S. We’ve reviewed Singapore Airlines Business Class too—check that one out after this!…We’re taking you aboard Singapore Airlines’ Premium Economy for their 10-hour flight from Tokyo to LAX. Was the experience worth the points? How does it compare to flying economy or splurging on business class? (P.S. We’ve reviewed Singapore Airlines Business Class too—check that one out after this!
• We’re breaking down the entire experience:
• Booking with points & paying extra for those prime bulkhead seats
• Pre-flight perks like priority check-in and 2 free checked bags
• The seat comfort (hello calf rests & 8-inch recline!)
• In-flight service & amenity kits
• Our gourmet meals via Book the Cook
• Entertainment options, WiFi access, and more!Download our Singapore Itinerary and listen to our two days in Singapore episode for the perfect plan to spend two days in this amazing island nation.
Check out our other airline reviews for more insights from the air:
• Singapore Airlines Business Class Review
• KLM Airlines Business Class Review
• Egypt Air Business Class Review
• American Airlines Domestic Business Class Review
• Cathay Pacific Premium Economy Review
Find great flight deals with Singapore Airlines by signing up for Thrifty Traveler Premium and watching the daily flight deals (points & cash) that are emailed directly to you! Use our promo code TSP to get $20 off your first year subscription.
—---------------------------------------
Shop: Trip Itineraries & Amazon Storefront
Connect: YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram and contact us at [email protected] to submit a question of the week or inquire about guest interviews and advertising. Submit a question of the week or inquire about guest interviews and advertising.more
Tokyo in 10: Discovering Japan’s Futuristic Metropolis One Neighborhood at a Time
This week on Travel in 10, David Brodie and Tim Johnson explore one of the most dynamic and endlessly fascinating cities in the world—Tokyo. From centuries-old temples to ultra-modern skyscrapers, Michelin-starred ram…Tokyo in 10: Discovering Japan’s Futuristic Metropolis One Neighborhood at a Time
This week on Travel in 10, David Brodie and Tim Johnson explore one of the most dynamic and endlessly fascinating cities in the world—Tokyo. From centuries-old temples to ultra-modern skyscrapers, Michelin-starred ramen counters to vending machines selling t-shirts, Tokyo is a city where every block is a new adventure.
David reflects on launching the podcast while living in Tokyo in 2005, and Tim brings his insights from a recent visit to the Japanese capital.
In This Episode
Sensoji Temple
• Tokyo’s oldest temple in the heart of Asakusa, surrounded by traditional shops and street food.
Shibuya Crossing
• The world’s busiest pedestrian intersection—Tokyo’s neon-fueled energy in one epic crosswalk.
Itoya Stationery Store
• A 12-story stationery wonderland in Ginza with a rooftop herb garden and hard-to-find writing tools.
Muji Flagship
• Explore minimalist Japanese design at its finest at this flagship Ginza location.
NHK Studio Park
• Try your hand at being a Japanese news anchor and explore the quirky world of Japanese television.
Where to Stay in Tokyo
Ritz-Carlton Tokyo
• Luxury above the clouds—beginning on the 45th floor with panoramic skyline views.
Shangri-La Tokyo
• Upscale and serene, located right at Tokyo Station for seamless access.
Park Hyatt Tokyo
• As seen in Lost in Translation, a serene luxury escape in Shinjuku.
Hyatt Centric Ginza
• Boutique vibes in a former newspaper office with nods to Tokyo’s media legacy.
Book & Bed
• Sleep in a bookstore at this quirky, capsule-style hotel for book lovers.
Can’t Miss Experiences
Tim’s Pick:
• Catch a baseball game in Tokyo—it’s a high-energy, cultural spectacle unlike anywhere else.
David’s Pick:
• Head to the Mori Art Museum for incredible exhibitions and the best city views in Roppongi Hills.
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Mentioned in this episode:
Check out the Smart Travel Podcast
This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel at the Link below:
Smart Travel Podcast
Check out all of our other travel podcasts from around the world
This podcast is part of the Voyascape Network, a collection of some of the world’s best travel podcasts. Explore more at Voyascape.com.
For advertising or sponsorship opportunities across the network, see the link below.
If you're like me, Japan is on your travel bucket list! This week Angela Betancourt joins me to share all of her tips and insider info on visiting Japan for the first time.
In this episode of the Winging It Travel Podcast, I reflect on the profound lessons learned from travelling the world and connecting with people from diverse cultures. Through heartfelt stories—from a Vietnamese hotel owner offering shelter during Chinese New Year to the remarkable honesty of a Toky…In this episode of the Winging It Travel Podcast, I reflect on the profound lessons learned from travelling the world and connecting with people from diverse cultures. Through heartfelt stories—from a Vietnamese hotel owner offering shelter during Chinese New Year to the remarkable honesty of a Tokyo subway worker—I highlight the universal kindness that transcends borders and stereotypes. He challenges divisive rhetoric and emphasizes the importance of empathy, collaboration, and understanding in building a better world. Tune in for inspiring anecdotes and insights that remind us how travel can foster compassion and unite humanity.
Check out all of our other travel podcasts from around the world
This podcast is part of Voyascape, a podcast network that brings together the world's best travel podcasts. You can find all of our podcasts from around the world at Voyascape.com.
If you are interested in advertising or sponsored content on any of our shows you can find out more at the link below.
Voyascape Podcast Network
Check out the Smart Travel Podcast
This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel at the Link below:
Lesley Downer's fascination with Japan's most famous poet took her from Tokyo's drab industrial concrete into what was then a seldom-visited part of Honshu.
It was a place of sake-drenched poetry sessions in thatched-roof highland villages, and holy mountains where m…Donate to Personal Landscapes.
Lesley Downer's fascination with Japan's most famous poet took her from Tokyo's drab industrial concrete into what was then a seldom-visited part of Honshu.
It was a place of sake-drenched poetry sessions in thatched-roof highland villages, and holy mountains where modern ascetics continued to roam between their past and future lives in search of atonement. Her book about this journey, On The Narrow Road to the Deep North, was reissued by Eland in 2024.
We spoke about Matsuo Basho’s haiku, mountain ascetics and Japan’s undiscovered north.
This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.personallandscapespodcast.com/subscribemore
Today, we take you halfway around the world and delve into Crystal's exhilarating journey to Japan. From the bustling streets of Tokyo and the serene temples of Kyoto to the breathtaking heights of Mount Fuji, you'll be taken on a tour of Japan's top destinations. The episode highlights the intricac…Today, we take you halfway around the world and delve into Crystal's exhilarating journey to Japan. From the bustling streets of Tokyo and the serene temples of Kyoto to the breathtaking heights of Mount Fuji, you'll be taken on a tour of Japan's top destinations. The episode highlights the intricacies of traveling with a friend, navigating public transportation, using Groupon for travel deals, and maximizing sightseeing experiences. Additionally, we address Crystal's challenges, such as broken luggage, and provide actionable travel tips like using packing cubes and leveraging technology for translations. Can you guess the gear of the week? Joe couldn't!
On this episode:
• Introduction and TWA Nostalgia
• Revealing the Destination: Japan
• Travel Companions and Planning
• Booking and Using Groupon for Travel
• Flight Experience with Singapore Airlines
• Exploring Tokyo and Mount Fuji
• Pit Stop and Gear of the Day
• Exploring Tokyo's Must-See Sites
• The Sensory Overload of Tokyo's Fish Market
• Shopping Adventures: Takita Street and the Hundred Yen Store
• Luggage Troubles and Souvenir Overload
• Dining Experiences in Tokyo
• Kyoto: Ancient Temples and Modern Delights
• Mount Fuji and the Awe-Inspiring Cable Car Ride
• Japan's Cleanliness and the Bullet Train Experience
• Final Thoughts and Future Adventures Head to StackingAdventures.com for our show notes!
Have you traveled to Japan? Share your story for our follow-up episode! http://stackingadventures.com/voicemailmore
Hello, and welcome to episode 154! This week, I am joined by Tony R. Vega, a legally blind content creator who shares his journey of walking the Tokaido Road between Kyoto and Tokyo and his life living in Hawaii, USA.
In this conversation, Tony discusses his experiences living in Hawaii and his lov…Hello, and welcome to episode 154! This week, I am joined by Tony R. Vega, a legally blind content creator who shares his journey of walking the Tokaido Road between Kyoto and Tokyo and his life living in Hawaii, USA.
In this conversation, Tony discusses his experiences living in Hawaii and his love for Japan. He shares his journey of learning Japanese and his passion for the country's culture. Tony also talks about his walks across Japan, including the historic Takaido road from Kyoto to Tokyo. He provides insights into life in Japan, his challenges as a visually impaired person, and the importance of accessibility. The conversation highlights the unique aspects of different cities in Japan and offers recommendations for those interested in experiencing Japanese culture. The main themes include exploring different cities, the historical significance of the Tokaido Road, the challenges faced during the walk, and the food experiences along the way.
Key Takeaways
• Living in Hawaii offers a unique connection to Japan due to the large Japanese population and the availability of Japanese food and culture.
• The walks across Japan, such as the Takaido road, provide opportunities for exploration and immersion in Japanese history and culture.
• Tony's experiences as a visually impaired person shed light on the importance of accessibility and inclusivity in society.
Tony is a creator on YouTube; please check out his links below + give him a subscription and a follow!
Thanks, Tony, for coming on!
You can also watch this episode on Spotify and YouTube.
Host/Producer/Creator/Writer/Composer/Editor - James Hammond
Podcast Art Design - Swamp Soup Company - Harry Utton
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Check out all of our other travel podcasts from around the world
This podcast is part of Voyascape, a podcast network that brings together the world's best travel podcasts. You can find all of our podcasts from around the world at Voyascape.com.
If you are interested in advertising or sponsored content on any of our shows you can find out more at the link below.
Voyascape Podcast Network
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This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel at the Link below:
This week Mike talks with Joe who has just logged his latest entry in his "Summer of Travel" logbook by traveling Japan Air Lines Business Class JFK to Toyko, intra-Asia flights to Korea and back. Then the culmination of Etihad business and first class from Tokyo to Abu Dhabi back to JFK. Hyatt and …This week Mike talks with Joe who has just logged his latest entry in his "Summer of Travel" logbook by traveling Japan Air Lines Business Class JFK to Toyko, intra-Asia flights to Korea and back. Then the culmination of Etihad business and first class from Tokyo to Abu Dhabi back to JFK. Hyatt and FHR stays throughout. Links to Topics Discussed: Southwest Eliminating Hallmark Open Seating Policy, plus other changes in the works.Amex Gold Card Changes, $75 AF increase, more "coupon book" cred...more
Join me in this VAGABOND SHORT episode, where I take you on a quick tour of Tokyo, offering my top recommendations for must-see and must-do experiences in the city.
7. Tsukiji Fish Market: Indulge your senses at Tsukiji Fish Market, a paradise for seafood lovers. Dive into the chaos guided by ne…Join me in this VAGABOND SHORT episode, where I take you on a quick tour of Tokyo, offering my top recommendations for must-see and must-do experiences in the city.
7. Tsukiji Fish Market: Indulge your senses at Tsukiji Fish Market, a paradise for seafood lovers. Dive into the chaos guided by neon signs and enthusiastic vendors. Experience a culinary adventure where every bite is a flavour crescendo.
6. Meiji Shrine: Escape the urban buzz at Meiji Shrine, surrounded by ancient cedar trees. Participate in traditional rituals and immerse yourself in the spiritual embrace of Japanese culture.
5. Ueno Park and Zoo: Take a breather in Ueno Park, an urban oasis offering picturesque beauty and playful charm. Every step is a brushstroke on Tokyo's canvas of natural wonders.
4. Tokyo Tower: Ascend Tokyo Tower for spectacular views of the city skyline. Experience the dynamic heartbeat of Tokyo from its iconic symbol.
3. Odaiba: Step into the future at Odaiba, where innovation and recreation blend seamlessly. Explore a tangible, dazzling reality amid breath-taking vistas and mecha wonders.
2. Akihabara – Electric Town: Immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of Akihabara, Tokyo's neon-drenched playground. It's a celebration of all things geeky in an electrifying atmosphere.
1. Shibuya Crossing: Step into the chaotic symphony of Shibuya Crossing, Tokyo's pulsating heart where tradition meets modernity. Experience the electric energy of this iconic pedestrian intersection.
Links and Resources
For more background information on the top tourist attractions in Tokyo, I recommend checking out the following resources:
- Shibuya Crossing
- Tsukiji Fish Market
- Meiji Shrine
- Tokyo Tower
- Akihabara
- Odaiba
- Ueno Park and Zoo
These links lead to official and informative websites where you can learn more about each attraction's history, significance, and visitor information.
Stay adventurous and keep exploring with The Radio Vagabond. more
