Rambling Ramsbothams

Family Christmas Abroad! Nordic Winter, Scenic Trains, Fjords, & Ferries

Sun, 19 Jan 2025 09:00:00 -0500

Surprise! We thought it would be fun to document our family holidays in a "field trip episode" style format!

This time - what do Danes call danishes? What time can you buy alcohol in Norway? When does the sun set? Where's the highest train station in Northern Europe? What do salty licorice and Christmas cheese taste like? Plus lots of other mundane life questions.

This is different than previous episodes, but we wanted to say hi after a few months away from podcasting, and share how our first Christmas ever as a group of 9 went!

We'll spend Christmas in Norway with Annie's family, ferry around some fjords, take the Bergen-Oslo scenic train past the highest station, go on an overnight boat to Copenhagen, Denmark, and stay in a medieval hotel in Malmo, Sweden. Hopefully it's a fun episode to listen to - thanks for coming along!

Listen to the end of every episode to hear our Japanese "words-of-the-week," and head to @ramblingramsbothams on Instagram to see behind-the-scenes photos.

Have a question or idea? Send us an email at ramblingramsbothams@gmail.com, or visit our website: https://www.ramblingramsbothams.com/

6 Weeks Later Update! Changing Plans, Hurricanes, and Reverse Culture Shock

Mon, 07 Oct 2024 20:00:00 -0400

Hello again from North Carolina! Our microphones are still on a boat being shipped back to us from Japan (sorry for the lower audio quality), but we wanted to share an update about what we’ve been up to since moving, our changing plans, and what things stood out to us most when returning to the US.

Thank you so much for joining us for 118 episodes of adventures (and mundane life stories) abroad!

As mentioned, here are some ways you can support Western North Carolina after the recent destruction from Hurricane Helene: https://www.bpr.org/bpr-news/2024-09-28/list-ways-to-donate-and-help-flood-victims-in-western-north-carolina-after-hurricane-helene

Japan Road Trip Week 3: Kyushu Scenic Train, Cat Temple, & World's Oldest Family Business

Fri, 23 Aug 2024 09:00:00 -0400

It's the final week of our road trip around Japan! We got to ride the 36+3 scenic train in Kyushu, and started our drive back through Honshu on the Sea of Japan coast. We visited a cat temple in Yamaguchi, saw the Tottori Sand Dunes, one of Japan's 3 great views, and 2 more original castles. At the end of the trip, we spent the night in Houshi Ryokan, the world's oldest continually run family business (it opened in the year 718!) Plus, how did we get all our bikes and things ready for the flight to America?

Pretty surreal that this was the end of a chapter here - we'll be back soon Japan!

Japan Road Trip Week 2: Aomori Nebuta Matsuri, Shikoku School Stay, and Hells of Kyushu

Thu, 15 Aug 2024 05:00:00 -0400

This week we've gone from the far north in Aomori Prefecture to the far south in Kyushu! We got to see the annual Aomori Nebuta Matsuri, stayed in an old elementary school on Shikoku, changed plans due to the Nankai Trough earthquake advisories, and took a ferry to the 7 Hells of Beppu on the island of Kyushu.

Japan Road Trip Week 1: Hiking Hakusan, Akita Camping, and Osorezan

Tue, 06 Aug 2024 09:00:00 -0400

This week we started our road trip by hiking Mt. Haku (or Hakusan), one of Japan’s 3 holy mountains. After the hike we started driving north to the Tohoku region, camping in Akita Prefecture, and making our way to Aomori Prefecture. We got to see Hirosaki Castle (one of the 12 remaining original castles in the country!) and stayed in Mutsu. During a bike ride there we visited Osorezan (literally Fear Mountain) and Bodaiji Temple, surrounded by sulfuric hot springs and said to be a gateway to the underworld.

More about Hakusan: https://www.city.hakusan.lg.jp/otherdata/sightseeing/hakusan/index.html

More about Osorezan: https://aomori-tourism.com/en/feature/detail_76.html

More about Hirosaki Castle: https://www.hirosakipark.com/en/

Moving Out, Cat Bus Bread, and Most Expensive Grapes in the World

Tue, 30 Jul 2024 06:00:00 -0400

Today we officially moved out of our apartment in Uchinada! We’ll talk about the moving process, what we did with all our furniture, and how moving is different in Japan vs. the US. We also talk about all-you-can-eat buffet differences, sweet beans, bread shaped like Totoro’s cat bus, and what we’re doing now that we don’t have an apartment. Plus, did you know that the most expensive grapes in the world are from Ishikawa Prefecture?

Last Day of Work, Special Paper, and Lonely Vending Machines

Tue, 23 Jul 2024 09:00:00 -0400

Today was Zeb’s last day of work! He’s now the proud owner of a couple new certificates to commemorate his time working as a JET ALT. Speaking of special paper, this week we talk about the specific plant used to make paper for Japanese yen banknotes - plus lonely vending machines, buying love in a can, and WCW wrestling.

Giant Cream Puffs, Group Bike Ride, and Toshogu Shrine Gundam

Tue, 16 Jul 2024 09:00:00 -0400

This week we went on a bike ride to Himi in Toyama Prefecture with some of Zeb’s cycling teammates, and stopped mid-ride for giant choux cream puffs! We also talk about why Kanazawa is the “Ice Cream Capital of Japan”, and Annie finished her ice cream bike route with 12 different stops. Plus, did you know that the Toshogu Shrine in Nikko recently released a new Gundam model, themed after Tokugawa Ieyasu’s armor?

Annie’s Full Ice Cream Bike Route: https://youtu.be/aYVjxeBvhFE?si=bC8KvIySJduPLzM9

Kanazawa as Japan’s Ice Cream Capital: https://www.asahi.com/ajw/articles/13059206

Japanese Ice Cream Association: https://www.icecream.or.jp/

New Tokugawa Ieyasu Gundam: https://www.asahi.com/ajw/articles/15326358

Disposing of Trash in Japan, New Laughing Rule, and Ice Cream Flavors

Tue, 09 Jul 2024 18:00:00 -0400

This week we talk about the holiday Tanabata, a new rule from Yamagata Prefecture about laughing once a day, and ice cream flavors. Would you try miso and cheese ice cream? What about mountain vegetable ice cream? Plus, how do you get rid of trash and recycling when living in Japan?

The “laughing once a day ordinance”: https://www.asahi.com/ajw/articles/15336010

New Yen Banknotes, Visiting Fantasy Springs at Tokyo Disney, and Taking Health Tests

Tue, 02 Jul 2024 09:00:00 -0400

This week, Japan is releasing the newly designed bank note bills! What’s printed on the new yen bills, and how does this affect vending machines? We also talk about visiting the new Disney Sea park area (and how to get into Fantasy Springs), and our experience with annual health checks in Japan. How are the tests different than checkups in the US?

New banknotes: https://www.asahi.com/ajw/articles/14899860
More about Disney's Fantasy Springs: https://www.tokyodisneyresort.jp/en/topics/info/fantasysprings.html

How the first convenience store came to Japan and Himeji Castle price increase

Mon, 24 Jun 2024 08:00:00 -0400

Did you know the first convenience store came to Japan 50 years ago in 1974? This week we’re talking about how the conbini arrived in Japan, the first item that was sold, and how it changed the way you can get cash, pay bills, and enjoy snacks.

We’re also talking about the differences between the words “popular” and “famous” in Japanese and English, residence tax in Japan, and how Himeji Castle might be quadrupling their ticket prices…but only for foreigners?

More about the 50th anniversary of 7/11 in Japan:

https://www.asahi.com/ajw/articles/15269912

More about Himeji Castle Ticket Prices:

https://www.asahi.com/ajw/articles/15309703

https://www.straitstimes.com/asia/east-asia/foreign-tourists-could-be-charged-6-times-more-than-locals-to-enter-japan-s-famed-himeji-castle

Cycling 500km in One Day, Wakayama, Nachi Taisha, and Japan’s Shortest River

Tue, 18 Jun 2024 09:00:00 -0400

This week we talk about how Zeb’s longest bike ride yet took him from the Sea of Japan across to the Pacific Ocean! He rode 500km (314 miles) to the tip of the Kii Peninsula in Wakayama Prefecture in one day. What would he change about the cycling route next time? What did he eat to fuel a 20 hour bike adventure? What were his biggest takeaways from the ride?

During our weekend in Kushimoto, Wakayama, we also got to see Honshu’s southernmost point, Japan’s tallest waterfall, and the shortest river. While in the area we saw the third of the Kumano Kodo main shrines, Nachi Taisha. Annie also rode her bike in Fukui Prefecture near the Tojinbo Cliffs and on the scenic shrine island of Oshima.

Hello From The Park - 500km Ride Plans, JET Program Successor, and Moss Village

Tue, 11 Jun 2024 07:00:00 -0400

The weather has been so nice recently that we decided to record this week from our neighborhood park - hopefully you can enjoy some of the ambiance of suburban Japan along with us! This week we’re talking about Zeb’s 500km single day bike ride plan, Annie’s scenic hydrangea temple route, visiting a moss village, and getting to chat with Zeb’s JET Program replacement.

JET Program Placements, Trash Balloons, and Kunrei vs Hepburn Writing Systems

Wed, 05 Jun 2024 09:00:00 -0400

It’s an exciting time for incoming JETs, since they’re starting to learn their placements in the program! This week we talk about trash balloons making news headlines, the Kunrei vs. Hepburn debate for romanizing Japanese writing, kaga yuzen fabric dying method, and what we wish we knew about the JET Program before arriving in Japan.

Weekend in Tokyo, Rickshaw Ride, Coffee Festival and Museums - Field Trip Episode!

Thu, 30 May 2024 09:00:00 -0400

This week Annie's cousin visited Japan and we spent a weekend in Tokyo together! We recorded some throughout our trip, and have more of a "field trip style" episode this week. Join us as we visit the stairs from the "Your Name" anime movie, see a college friend's hometown, ride in a rickshaw, go thrift shopping, enjoy a few museums around Tokyo, and see the Tokyo Coffee Festival.

Ontake Race Results, Cat Trading Cards, and Lake Suwa Bike Lanes

Mon, 20 May 2024 19:00:00 -0400

This week we share Zeb’s bike race results from the Mt. Ontake hill climb! We also talk about the Kiso Area and Annie’s bike ride around Lake Suwa, visiting a Showa era museum in Takayama, cat trading cards, and some Lawson Mt Fuji drama.

Nameneko Cat Cards: http://nameneko.com/jp/products.html
Showa Era Museum: https://showakan.jp/takayama/
Ontake Hill Climb bike race: https://jbcfroad.jp/race/13910
Lake Suwa: https://www.go-nagano.net/en/trip-idea/id16505
Otaki Village: https://otakiexperience.com/
Lawson Press Release: https://www.lawson.co.jp/contents/cont07/1486975_3310.html

Business Card Etiquette, International Shipping, & Bikepacking Trip

Tue, 14 May 2024 07:00:00 -0400

This week Annie gets to visit an Elementary School and practice proper business card etiquette for introductions. Zeb is preparing for his biggest cycling race of the year this weekend, the Ontake Hill Climb, and Annie went on her first bikepacking trip in Toyama Prefecture. We also navigate the international shipping process for packages, and share the things we learned to do next time.

How’s the camping and biking on the Amaharashi Coast? Is mid-May the best time to visit Japan? And what do you call a litter box in Japanese?

School Field Trip, Visiting the Eye Doctor, and Driving Differences in Japan

Tue, 07 May 2024 07:00:00 -0400

This week we try to get rid of one yen coins, go on a school field trip to the Kanazawa castle park, visit the eye doctor, and talk about how drivers say thank you in Japan. Another week talking about new experiences, mundane errands, and all the things we learn in between while navigating life abroad.

Making Kites, Golden Week, and Wisteria Ice Cream

Tue, 30 Apr 2024 07:00:00 -0400

This week we share Zeb’s Ibukiyama cycling race result, share a listener email, talk about making kites, flying carp for children’s day, eating kashiwa mochi, and trying wisteria flavored ice cream. It’s Golden Week in Japan!

Our 100th Episode! Are We Still Glad We Started This Podcast?

Tue, 23 Apr 2024 06:00:00 -0400

Can you believe we’ve recorded 100 podcast episodes? This week we’ll look back at things we wish we did better, things we’re planning, and what we hope for the podcast in the future.

Plus, we’ll ramble about things like soot sprites, coffee, buying postage stamps, and “slice of life” manga.

Thank you so much for listening along on our living abroad journey!

Ibukiyama Bike Race, Kanazawa's Oldest Shrine, and Fish Auctions

Tue, 16 Apr 2024 07:00:00 -0400

This week we talk about Zeb’s first bike race of the year (a hill climb up Ibukiyama!), Ishiura Shrine (the oldest shrine in Kanazawa with a cute dog mascot), and an evening fish auction on the Sea of Japan. We also talk about the mossy Natadera Temple, battle history at Sekigahara, and what Japan’s prime minister gifted to the US (from the nearby Noto Peninsula)!

Cherry Blossom Picnic in Kanazawa & the Japanese Food Pyramid

Mon, 08 Apr 2024 18:00:00 -0400

This week Kanazawa has been covered in pink cherry blossoms! We talk about getting to enjoy a hanami (flower viewing) picnic on the Sai River, where the tradition of these picnics started, and typical things you might eat and drink to celebrate.

Speaking of food, we’ll also talk about the Japanese “food pyramid” or the dietary recommendations, and compare them to American food and nutrition.

Articles we mentioned:

Economic impact of cherry blossoms: https://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2024/03/15/japan/society/hanami-economic-impact/

Hanami marketing: https://tokyoesque.medium.com/japans-hanami-marketing-helping-your-business-bloom-during-sakura-season-247a5cfb85af

Japanese Spinning Top Food Guidelines: https://www.mhlw.go.jp/bunya/kenkou/pdf/eiyou-syokuji5.pdf

5-A-Day in Japan: https://www.5aday.net/en/

“My Plate” in US: https://www.myplate.gov/

Shimanami Kaido and End of the School Year

Tue, 02 Apr 2024 07:00:00 -0400

This week we’re talking about one of Japan’s most famous cycling routes (the Shimanami Kaido), soy sauce that spends three years in an open fermentation, and what the end of the school year is like here. It’s Spring Break in Japan, and the cherry blossoms are just starting to bloom!

More about the...

Shimanami Kaido: https://shimanami-cycle.or.jp/cycling/en-02.html

Tobishima Kaido: https://setouchicycling-tobishima.jp/

Yumeshima Kaido: https://cycling-ehime.com/en/routes/the_yumeshima_kaido/

Okamoto Soy Sauce: https://okamoto-shoyu.com/

Riding the New Hokuriku Shinkansen Extension From Kanazawa to Tsuruga

Tue, 26 Mar 2024 06:00:00 -0400

The Hokuriku Shinkansen Line was extended for the first time since 2015, and we got seats on the very first train from Kanazawa to Tsuruga, the new end of the line!

Why did we wake up at 4am? How was the train journey? What did we do in Tsuruga? We’ll talk about all that this week!

Links to articles about Tsuruga that we mention:
Why Tsuruga? https://www.asahi.com/ajw/articles/15200878
Impact of the Line: https://www.asahi.com/ajw/articles/15201001
Anime statues in Tsuruga: https://ourstarblazers.com/vault/371/

Moving To A New Country - Vernal Equinox & Big Life Changes This Fall

Tue, 19 Mar 2024 05:00:00 -0400

We have a big life update this week - we’re moving to a new country in the Fall! We’ll talk about where we’re moving and some of the factors that led to our decision.

We picked today to talk about this since March 20th is Vernal Equinox Day and the spring equinox is traditionally seen as a time of new life & renewal. We thought it would be a poetic time to share a big change in our life!

But don’t worry - the podcast will still be focused on life in Japan content through August!

Scenic Berumonta Train, Eating Eel Bones, & Mister Donuts Truth

Tue, 12 Mar 2024 07:00:00 -0400

We got to ride the Berumonta, a scenic train in Toyama Prefecture! This train has a sushi chef on board, you can get sake delivered to your seat, and there are even local fans that wait along the line to wave as it goes by.

Here’s more info about the train: http://berumonta.jp/
You can reserve seats for this train by asking at any green JR ticket station window!
English info about the train here: https://www.westjr.co.jp/global/en/train/berumonta/

We also talk about the origins of Mister Donuts, the beloved chain in Japan, thanks to a correction from a listener email!
Finally, we’ll talk about eating eel bones, the mountain town of Johana, and what makes a ramen shop “welcoming to women” according to this article: https://asia.nikkei.com/Life-Arts/Life/Japan-sees-rise-of-ramen-girls

note about eels - We actually didn’t know until researching this afterwards, but Unagi (freshwater eel) was added to the list of endagered species in 2014 because of overfishing. Since eel is a staple of Japanese food we didn’t realize. Unagi numbers have been recovering over the past decade since a permit system was introduced to eel farmers, limiting breeding and reducing the volume of catches made allowed. However, the ethical issues of eating eel are something we’ll be aware of for the future, and think of this more as a rare delicacy rather than just another fish on the menu.

Tourism Vocabulary, Friends’ Visit, and Mountain Biking in Japan

Mon, 04 Mar 2024 20:00:00 -0500

This week we read a listener email about a farm in Wakayama, talk about our friends visiting from Australia, and why there are so many “Little Kyotos” in Japan. We also talk about language in travel writing and tourism vocabulary, and mountain biking in Gunma Prefecture.

Join our newsletter! https://www.ramblingramsbothams.com/newsletter

Links to things we discussed:

Wakayama farm from a listener’s email: https://www.ryunohara.com/
Is Kanazawa really a “Little Kyoto”?: https://kanazawa--tourism-net.translate.goog/about-kanazawa/shoukyoto/?_x_tr_sl=auto&_x_tr_tl=en&_x_tr_hl=ja
Washington Post article on the term “ethnic food”: https://www.washingtonpost.com/lifestyle/food/why-everyone-should-stop-calling-immigrant-food-ethnic/2015/07/20/07927100-266f-11e5-b77f-eb13a215f593_story.html
Article about responsible travel story-telling: https://rootedstorytelling.com/storytelling/responsible-travel-storytelling-content-practices/
Train Rail MTB Experience in Gifu Prefecture: https://rail-mtb.com/

Japan's Unlikely First Astronaut, Kids Menus & Cycling the Tedori River

Mon, 26 Feb 2024 18:00:00 -0500

This week we talk about cycling along the Tedori River Canyon Road in Ishikawa, aizuchi, talking to yourself, food on kids menus around the world, nearly naked men, and the first person Japan sent to space.

We have a new monthly newsletter! Sign up at www.ramblingramsbothams.com/newsletter

More about…

The Tedori River area in Ishikawa: https://hakusan-geo.jp/en/area/234/

The first Japanese astronaut: https://neojaponisme.com/2011/06/07/japans-forgotten-first-astronaut/

Aizuchi: https://www.tofugu.com/japanese/aizuchi-japanese-listening/

The last “near-naked men” temple event: https://www.asahi.com/ajw/articles/15170934

Sake, Samurai Swords, Giant Peach Babies, & Tiny Bars

Mon, 19 Feb 2024 19:00:00 -0500

We have a new monthly newsletter! Sign up at www.ramblingramsbothams.com/newsletter

This week we’re talking about train deals to save money on a trip to Kanazawa, the emperor’s birthday, sake brewing, giant peach babies, samurai swords, and tiny bars.

Here are some links to things we discuss:

Hokuriku Ouen Ticket Announcement: https://soranews24.com/2024/02/16/new-jr-shinkansen-inclusive-rail-pass-is-a-huge-bargain-great-way-to-help-out-a-region-in-need/
JR Rail’s Announcement (in Japanese): https://www.jreast.co.jp/press/2023/20240214_ho02.pdf
Hokuriku Arch Pass (another option): https://www.westjr.co.jp/global/en/ticket/hokuriku-arch-pass/
Ishikawa Prefecture’s Tourism website: https://www.ishikawatravel.jp
Noguchi Sake: https://noguchi-naohiko.co.jp/
Fermented food/samurai experience in Kanazawa: https://www.kabura.jp/
Kanazawa’s “golden gai” bar area: http://www.kanazawa-shintenchi.com/

Third Places, Kanazawa Cafes, & Cardinal Directions in Japanese

Tue, 13 Feb 2024 05:00:00 -0500

Thanks to National Foundation Day in Japan, Zeb had a day off from school this week! We got to spend the day in Kanazawa city, having lunch and checking out a new cafe. Annie also saw ten thousand dandelion puffballs in a small & interesting art gallery named Himito on the Saigawa River.

Speaking of cafes and lunch spots, we also talk about the concept of “third places,” and unique examples of these in Japan. Finally, we talk about describing cardinal directions in Japanese. Did you know that the language you use can change the way you think about direction or time?

More links:
Himito Gallery: https://www.instagram.com/himito_kanazawa/?hl=en
Here’s a 2016 study about Third Places in Tokyo: https://www.gensler.com/gri/tokyos-third-places
More about Cardinal Directions in Japanese: https://www.japanesewithanime.com/2017/03/north-south-east-west-in-japanese.html

Celebrating Setsubun, Throwing Beans, and Travel Clickbait

Mon, 05 Feb 2024 19:00:00 -0500

Hello from snowy Ishikawa once again! We’re starting off this week by answering some listener questions - has the “coming of age day” cut off divided friend groups? We also talk about clickbait when it comes to travel and promoting Japan.

Finally, February 3rd was Setsubun (節分), or the “seasonal division” marking the day that winter ends and spring begins! We celebrated by throwing beans at the devil and silently eating our ehōmaki (恵方巻).

Japan Tourism Statistics: https://statistics.jnto.go.jp/en/graph/#graph--inbound--prefecture--ranking

Snowy Kenrokuen Garden & Superstitions in Japan

Tue, 30 Jan 2024 18:00:00 -0500

This week we visit Kenrokuen (兼六園) in the snow, very early one morning! Zeb included some recorded soundbites from our walk - did you know that every morning there’s a time you can enter the garden for free? We also talk about a coworker’s tip for making supermarket sushi taste better, a kotatsu river boat, and some superstitions from Japan.

You can see the snowy photos Zeb took of Kenrokuen here: https://www.ramblingramsbothams.com/blog/a-kenrokuen-snow-day

More info about the garden grounds: https://www.pref.ishikawa.jp/siro-niwa/english/info.html

Government Dating App, Kotatsu Train, and Japanese Idioms

Mon, 22 Jan 2024 19:00:00 -0500

This week we talk about a new dating app in Japan created by the Tokyo government, the history of kotatsu (& a kotatsu train), and a special stamp collecting event in Wakayama Prefecture for cyclists. We also talk about strawberry day, the phrase ichigo ichie (一期一会), and other Japanese idioms (or yojijukugo).

Links for some things we reference:
Where we learned about the Tokyo Dating App: https://japantoday.com/category/features/lifestyle/tokyo-government-to-release-official-dating-app
Wakayama's Cycling Stamp Rally: https://wakayama800.jp/mobilerally/?lng_front=en Zeb's JET Program Video Contest entry for 2024: https://youtu.be/9QB08zR05CM?si=hpEOQGc6lKkx8pQS
And more about the contest here: https://jetprogramme.org/en/videocontest/

Burning New Years Decor, Your “Rebirth Year”, and University Entrance Exams

Tue, 16 Jan 2024 01:00:00 -0500

Should you visit Kanazawa right now? What do you do with New Years decorations after the celebrations end? When do you eat kagami mochi? We’re talking about these questions this week, plus the annual Japanese university entrance exams, soy sauce ice cream, why turning 60 is so special, and the unluckiest ages to turn.

Tourism Updates From Ishikawa Prefecture: https://www.ishikawatravel.jp/en/news/regarding-the-2024-noto-peninsula-earthquake/

Noto Earthquake Updates, Dragons, and Kanji of the Year

Mon, 08 Jan 2024 21:00:00 -0500

This week we’re happy to be recording from back in our apartment! We’ll start with an update on how things are going after the Noto Earthquake, and some news about the area.

Donations for the Ishikawa Earthquake can be given to the prefecture directly through this link: https://www.pref.ishikawa.lg.jp/suitou/gienkinr0601.html

English information on donating to Noto Earthquake relief fund can be found here (a non-exhaustive list): https://www.tokyoweekender.com/japan-life/news-and-opinion/where-to-donate-to-help-victims-of-japans-2024-noto-peninsula-earthquake/

We’ll also talk about Year of the Dragon facts, omikuji fortunes, coming-of-age day, and the kanji that was chosen to represent 2023.

Our Ishikawa Update, 24 Hours After the Noto Earthquake

Tue, 02 Jan 2024 05:00:00 -0500

This is a slightly different episode than normal, but here are some updates regarding the earthquake that happened here in the Noto Peninsula of Ishikawa Prefecuture, and spread widely across the west coast of Japan. We are safe and things are generally ok in Uchinada - we are thinking of those farther up the peninsula and hope that everyone stays safe!

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Shared Spaces, Snowmen & Ban on Wheels in Japan

Tue, 26 Dec 2023 08:00:00 -0500

This week we talk about shared spaces that we wish existed, how you make a snowman in Japan, this year's JET Programme video contest, and the restriction on wheeled vehicles during the Edo Period rule of Tokugawa Ieyasu.

JET Program Video Contest details: https://jetprogramme.org/en/videocontest/

More about the wheeled vehicle restrictions:
https://d-arch.ide.go.jp/je_archive/english/society/wp_je_unu9.html
https://www.smithsonianmag.com/travel/way-shogun-180975196/

Field Trip Bonus Episode: Snow Day In Kanazawa

Sat, 23 Dec 2023 21:00:00 -0500

It's the first snow of winter here and we're taking you with us on a walk around Kanazawa City! Close your eyes and imagine you're joining us for a cozy train and bus ride, some cafe visits, walking through snowy shrines, playing gacha pon machines, and enjoying a soba lunch.

We hope you like this "field trip" format - let us know if you want more of these style episodes!

Pizza, Pass Hunting, and Bicycle History in Japan

Mon, 18 Dec 2023 19:00:00 -0500

This past week was Zeb's birthday! We celebrated with pizza - but how is pizza in Japan different from pizza in the US?

We also get into the history of the bike in Japan, when it first arrived, and how Japan popularized a niche version of cycling in the 70s called "Pass Hunting" (峠の狩り).

Also this week, are city bikes called Mama-chyari or Chyarinko? How do you measure essay length in Japanese writing? And do you use a "Poke-ball" to catch Pokemon in Japan?

The @niigata0252 instagram account with lots of great vintage Japanese cycling photos: https://www.instagram.com/niigata0252/?hl=en
One of the articles about Pass Hunting that we reference: https://www.nativve.com/stuff-were-into/stuff-were-into-pass-hunting/
The Eroica vintage cycling event we mentioned: https://eroica.cc/en/japan

Going to the Dentist in Japan, Godzilla, and High School Cycling Practice

Tue, 12 Dec 2023 01:00:00 -0500

This week we visit the dentist for the first time in Japan - we found out what a tooth cleaning was like, how much it cost, whether anesthesia is an option for pain, and even had a filling replaced. We also saw the new "Godzilla Minus One" in theaters, and got to ride bikes with some of Zeb's high school students during a Saturday team cycling practice.

Taking the JLPT Language Test, Funerals in Japan, & Winter's Arrival

Tue, 05 Dec 2023 07:00:00 -0500

December is here! Is it ok to talk about Cremation and Christmas in the same episode? This time we're talking about funerals in Japan vs. the US, taking the JLPT language test (and what Annie would do differently next time), and festive illumination events. It's time to settle in and get cozy for the arrival of winter in Japan!

The JLPT mock test Annie used to study: https://www.unagibun.com/jlpt-online/

Camping and Biking in Wakayama, Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Trail, & Three-Legged Crows

Tue, 28 Nov 2023 07:00:00 -0500

Today we’re talking about our first time camping in Japan! We went to Wakayama Prefecture for a camping and cycling trip - we'll talk about some scenic gravel biking, seeing parts of the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage trail, how a construction worker saved our ride, three-legged crows, important Shinto shrines, and yogurt lids inspired by leaves.

More about the Kumano Kodo: https://www.tb-kumano.jp/en/kumano-kodo/

Model Photoshoot in Kaga Onsen, Kintsugi, & Lolita Fashion

Tue, 21 Nov 2023 18:00:00 -0500

Annie had a "modeling" opportunity to promote tourism in the Kaga Onsen area of Ishikawa Prefecture! This week we talk about the places where she was photographed, including Yamashiro Onsen, Yamanaka Onsen, Kakusenkei Kawadoko river cafe, Korogi Bridge, and The Museum of Snow and Ice.

We also talk about the Japanese art of kintsugi, or repairing broken pottery and glass with lacquer and gold. Annie was able to see master artist Yagi Shigeki in Kaga repair bowls with kintsugi.

Finally, we reply to a listener email about Lolita fashion & "Gosurori", part of the street style fashion in Japan.

The Not-So-Useful News Report: Fun Facts From Life in Japan

Tue, 14 Nov 2023 17:00:00 -0500

This week we're sharing a slightly shorter episode, featuring some recent news & fun (but maybe not so useful) facts about recent life in Japan!

We'll talk about musical roads, silk making, Godzilla, Japan's first school, island names, nighttime heritage views, and more.

Godzilla movie: https://www.asahi.com/ajw/articles/15047829
Mystery Tsunami: https://www.asahi.com/ajw/articles/15049677
New Island Emerges: https://english.kyodonews.net/news/2023/11/363ec4143c3a-new-island-emerges-after-underwater-volcano-eruption-south-of-tokyo.html

Noto Peninsula, Salt, and Coastal Cycling in Wajima

Wed, 08 Nov 2023 05:00:00 -0500

We joined a monitor tour to help bring more cyclists and travelers to the Noto Peninsula in Ishikawa Prefecture! This week we'll talk about what makes Wajima great for biking, some of the cons of visiting the rural coastline of Japan, salt farms, ama divers, cliff-side rice paddies, and morning markets. We also got to hang out with four friends from our hometown in North Carolina, who were all visiting Japan! Where did we take them during their time in Kanazawa?

More about Noto's history and culture: http://noto-satoyamasatoumi.jp/index_en.php
& https://www.pref.ishikawa.jp/satoyama/noto-giahs/f-lang/english/giahs_top.html

Halloween in Japan, Cat Yokai, Yurei Stories, and Famous Graves

Thu, 02 Nov 2023 21:00:00 -0400

What's Halloween like in Japan? This week we're talking about Halloween security measures in Tokyo, Japanese yurei (ghost) stories, and the Tokugawa Ieyasu's grave in Nikko. We also talk about three different kinds of Kaibyo, or cat yokai.

British Institute of Film’s top 10 Japanese “Ghost Stories” https://www.bfi.org.uk/lists/10-great-japanese-ghost-stories

More about Okiku: https://yokai.com/okiku/

TeamLab in Kanazawa, Silvervine, and Tourism Stats in Japan

Wed, 25 Oct 2023 07:00:00 -0400

This week we talk about visiting the TeamLab experience at the Kanazawa Castle, part of their Digitized City art projects. We also talk about a common plant in Japan that cats may like even more than catnip, and about recent tourism statistics in Japan (https://statistics.jnto.go.jp/en/graph/).

Pocket Money, Persimmons, & Horumonyaki

Tue, 17 Oct 2023 05:00:00 -0400

It's persimmon season and we're discussing different kinds of the fruit (both Shibu-gaki and Ama-gaki), as well as where the first sweet persimmon tree came from in Japan. We're also talking about husbands getting monthly pocket money, and what "horumonyaki" is on the Yakiniku restaurant menu.

Eating Konjac, Goshuin Stamps, and Gunma's Onsen Water

Thu, 12 Oct 2023 19:00:00 -0400

This week we're talking about collecting Goshuin (御朱印) seal stamps at shrines and temples, unique ways to eat konjac (konyakku or こんにゃく), and the different onsen (hot spring) water in Gunma Prefecture. We specifically discuss the mineral-rich water in Shima, the sulfuric water in Kusatsu, and the iron-rich water in Ikaho. Finally we'll mention a couple recent articles about mystery tsunamis and the plea for Japanese residents to eat more scallops.

Thanks also to Sandy, Steven, and Elijah for sending in some listener emails this week.

Date Day in Kanazawa, Conveyor Belt Sushi & Bike Messenger World Champs

Mon, 02 Oct 2023 20:00:00 -0400

Today we're talking about what we did on our "date day" in Kanazawa! After a nice Fall bike ride from Uchinada, we took the train into the city for some conveyor belt sushi lunch. We also enjoyed coffee at one of the many nice coffee shops downtown, checked out some gacha pon machines, earned a chibi Gundam gunpla model, and enjoyed some seasonal fall flavors. Finally, we'll talk about the Bike Messenger World Championship events that took place in Yokohama last week.

2023 Bike Messenger World Championships: https://cmwc2023.jpbma.org/en/

Japanese Weddings, Talking to Neighbors, and What Annie Brought Back to Japan

Wed, 27 Sep 2023 08:00:00 -0400

This week we'll read an email from a listener about his interactions with a neighbor, talk about what weddings are like in Japan (both traditional Shinto style and "white" weddings) , and describe the unexpected things that Annie brought back to Japan from the US. (Hint, one thing could be described as the southern US version of edamame!)

Kanazawa Itinerary, Asheville North Carolina, & Goodbye to Japanese Summer?

Thu, 21 Sep 2023 05:00:00 -0400

Tune in to this episode to hear about what Zeb did with his brother & sister in-law when they visited him in Kanazawa, Annie's trip to Asheville's River Arts District, and more.

Thanks for sticking with us through all the travel and remote episode! Next week Annie returns to Japan and we'll finally be back to recording in our home.

Jet Lag, JLPT, Golden Cubes, & Silver Cups

Thu, 14 Sep 2023 17:00:00 -0400

For the first time, Zeb and Annie aren’t recording from the same room! Zeb flew back to Japan and Annie has a little more time in the US - this week we’re talking about jet lag, taking the JLPT (Japanese Language Proficiency Test), respect for the aged day (Keirō no Hi - 敬老の日), and gifts that centenarians receive in Japan.

You can find more information about the online customs forms here: https://www.digital.go.jp/en/services/visit_japan_web-en

What If Our US Hometowns Had Character Mascots Like In Japan?

Wed, 06 Sep 2023 10:00:00 -0400

This week we've been enjoying some time in our North Carolina hometowns with family and friends - it got us thinking about the character mascots that some towns and regions have in Japan. These laid-back characters are called "Yuru-kyara" (ゆるキャラ) and advertise the specialties and attractions that an area is known for. What would the Yuru-kyara be like in our hometowns?

We also talk about the Yuru Grand Prix, which was a huge mascot convention, and describe the two endearing mascots that tied for last place.

Getting A Japanese Driver's License On The First Try & Returning to the USA

Wed, 30 Aug 2023 17:00:00 -0400

Annie is now licensed to drive a car in two countries! This week we'll start by talking about the process in Japan, memorizing the course for the driver's license test, and differences that surprised us.

We're also recording this episode from North Carolina, because we're back in the USA for the first time in over a year! It's been fun to catch up with family, drive around familiar places, and eat our favorite foods. What kind of foods did we miss the most?

7 Day Bike Trip Around Japan! Cycling from Kanazawa to Matsumoto and back

Tue, 22 Aug 2023 10:00:00 -0400

This one is all about our summer break bike touring trip! We cycled around 4 prefectures in Japan (Ishikawa, Toyama, Gifu, and Nagano) for 7 days, covering 430 Miles and 34,824 feet (or 690 Kilometers, 10,601 Meters ).

Our cycling route took us from Uchinada (outside Kanazawa) to Hida to Kanayama to Tsumago-juku to Matsumoto to Shirakawa-go and back to Uchinada.

We talk about riding on the historic Nakasendo road, staying with a host who is the 14th generation to live in his house, seeing two castles (Matsumoto's is one of 12 original castles left in Japan!), villages with gassho style houses, seeing the 75th annual fireworks show on Lake Suwa, swimming in rivers, and eating all kinds of snacks.

How to Plan a Cycling Trip & Japan’s 72 Seasons

Tue, 15 Aug 2023 06:00:00 -0400

Happy Mountain Day! We’re recording this in advance because we'll be heading out towards the Japanese Alps on our biggest bike touring trip yet. How do you plan a cycling trip? Zeb shares his tips on setting your goals, mapping your route, and finding lodging. Let us know what trips you've been on, or where you plan to ride!

Also, did you know that Japan has 72 seasons? You can see them all and here: http://www.usjapanctn.net/72seasons.html

Japan-iversary Episode! One Year of Living in Japan: Highlights, Hardest Parts, and Favorite Sounds

Tue, 08 Aug 2023 06:00:00 -0400

Earlier this year we hit our 1-year "podcast anniversary", but this week was our "Japan-iversary" which was more special! Join us as we celebrate one year of living in Japan, share some of our favorite sounds from life here, hit the highlights of each month, and touch on the hardest parts about life abroad. Thanks for listening to our ramblings so far, here's to the next year!

Japan Driver's License Process, Shimano Biker's Festival, & Cycling Nagano's Alps

Tue, 01 Aug 2023 07:00:00 -0400

This week we talk about our first appointment to convert our International Driver's Licenses to a Japanese Driving License, Annie's first bike race in over a year at the Shimano Biker's Festival, and cycling into the alps and across the Utsukushigahara Highlands in Nagano Prefecture.

The 31st annual Shimano Biker's Festival was at Fujimi Panorama Resort, and it was a ton of fun with a huge variety of events. The area around the Venus Line road was a beautiful place to ride bikes in Japan, and we hope to return soon!

More about the Shimano Biker's Festival: https://bikersfestival.shimano.com/

More about the Shirakaba-ko area where we stayed: https://www.shirakabako.com/

The JET resource Annie referenced with tips about getting your driver's license: https://ishikawajet.fandom.com/wiki/How_to_get_a_Japanese_Drivers_License_-_From_Start_to_Finish#What_to_Bring

Workplace Health Exams, Painting Kutaniyaki, & Flea Markets in Japan

Tue, 25 Jul 2023 09:00:00 -0400

This week we talk about some summer break activities at Zeb’s workplace, including his upcoming annual employee health check. What’s included in the standard yearly health exam? (Called Ippan Kenko Shindan or Ippan Kenshi 一般健康診断・一般健診)

Annie talks about some art opportunities in Japan this past week, including a kutaniyaki (九谷焼) painting experience, and participating in a local flea market. How do you paint or make kutaniyaki? Where can you search online to find craft fairs and flea markets in Japan?

More about Kutaniyaki: http://www.kutani-mus.jp/en/

Miyazaki's New Film, Movie Theaters in Japan, Marine Day BBQ Party, & Zeb's Mission

Tue, 18 Jul 2023 19:00:00 -0400

This week we talk about seeing Miyazaki's new movie, "How Do You Live?" (君たちはどう生きるか), or the english title, "The Boy and the Heron." Don't worry, no spoilers! What are Japanese movie theaters like? Did the marketing plan work well for Miyazaki's last film?

We also talk about Zeb's weekend "mission" in town with other English teachers, how his debate contest practice went, and Marine Day. To celebrate Marine Day (or Ocean Day), we got to enjoy a beach barbecue party!

Aliens, Japanese Festivals, Pet Stores, and JET Program Income

Tue, 11 Jul 2023 02:00:00 -0400

This week we're responding to a listener email about extraterrestrial life, talking about the Noto Abare Matsuri, or the "fire and violence rampage festival," and discussing the pay that language teachers receive while on the JET Program. We're also talking about Tanabata, the festival that celebrates long-distance relationships, and what Annie was surprised to see in a nearby Japanese pet store.

Hydrangeas, Cycling Routes, Japanese Work Culture, and Egg Mascots

Tue, 04 Jul 2023 02:00:00 -0400

This week we talk about hydrangea flowers (one perk of rainy season!), discuss work culture with Japanese and American friends, and mention cool things we saw on our bike rides this weekend (including Wakutama-kun, the onsen egg mascot of Wakura, and Sekidousan, a nearby holy mountain).

Here's the Honko-ji temple's website if you are in the area and want to admire some hydrangea flowers: https://honko-ji.jimdofree.com/

Here's the Wakura Onsen website for more about Wakutama-kun: https://www.wakura.or.jp/en/brochure/brochure-1080/

Animals, Anime, and Air Conditioners

Mon, 26 Jun 2023 22:00:00 -0400

This week we're talking about cool new animals we saw on bike rides, anime recommendations from listeners, Japan's tourism statistics, debate contest judging, our new Japanese class, and saying goodbye to our futon! How long into the Ishikawa summer do you think we can last before turning on our AC for the first time?...

Here's the article Zeb referenced about the movie Belle, and the real-life town in Kochi prefecture where the movie protagonist lives: https://www.asahi.com/ajw/articles/14700204

Link to the other article referenced, about Japan's tourism levels: https://www.asahi.com/ajw/articles/14938887

One Year Podcast Anniversary!

Mon, 19 Jun 2023 23:00:00 -0400

This week is our anniversary! Well, the anniversary of starting this podcast! We'll talk about why we started it, how our podcasting setup changed, revisit questions about Japan that we had in our first episodes, and share some plans we have for the future. We'll also read an email from a listener, and talk a little about Kinosaki Onsen in Hyogo Prefecture.

What would you like to hear from this podcast in the future? Let us know, and thank you for listening!

Japan's Ice Cream Capital, Gunma JBCF Cycling Race, and Spirited Away Bath House

Tue, 13 Jun 2023 05:00:00 -0400

This week we went back to Gunma Prefecture for another one of Zeb's JBCF road cycling races! We talk about how the racing went, and also the hotel we stayed in at Shima Onsen. We visited Sekizenkan, a Taisho Era bath house that is one of Japan's oldest, with a red bridge that is rumored to have inspired the bath house bridge in Miyazaki's Spirited Away.

Back in the Kanazawa area, we've been sampling some of the many ice creams available in the so called "Japanese Ice Cream Capital", and trying to stay cool during the rapidly approaching summer months.

Luckily we were able to "stay cool" during a language class placement test, and will be talking about our upcoming Japanese language lessons too!

More info about JBCF road races: https://jbcfroad.jp/

Hyakumangoku Festival in Kanazawa & Guest Podcast Appearances

Tue, 06 Jun 2023 10:00:00 -0400

We're starting this week's episode with a crazy update on the drone we found in the river! But, the main event from this past week was the Hyakumangoku Festival, an annual parade and weekend celebration in Kanazawa. We'll talk about the history behind the festival, the meaning of the name, and highlights from the parade.

Also this week, we talk about Zeb's guest appearance on the podcast, "Japan Station." Thanks to host Tony Vega for the great conversation! You can find his show at the link below, or anywhere you get your podcasts.

Japan Station Podcast: https://www.japankyo.com/2023/06/japan-station-road-cycling-in-japan-jet-programme-life/

Hyakumangoku Official Festival website: https://100mangoku.net/index.html

Listener Questions, Types of Kimono, & Grocery Store Staples

Tue, 30 May 2023 04:00:00 -0400

This week, we answer some listener questions! We'll talk about different types of kimono, whether there's a specific day of the week to visit shrines, and new grocery store staples for us. It's also about the time of year when other JET Programme participants are hearing back about their placements! If you're a 2023 JET, we'd love to hear where you got placed!

Bike Racing in Nagano, Japan's Secret Hot Spring Society, Mt. Ontake, and Kiso's Turquoise Rivers

Tue, 23 May 2023 08:00:00 -0400

This week's episode is about Zeb's most recent bike race weekend in beautiful Nagano Prefecture! He raced a hill climb event starting in Otaki and riding up Mt. Ontake (a sacred and active volcano) with 4000' of elevation gain. We also got to stay in an onsen ryokan (a hot spring inn) that's part of Japan's "Secret Hot Spring Society," and admired the beautiful turquoise water in Kiso River. The Nezamenotoko Gorge in Agematsu and the Atera Valley were both highlights. The Kiso Valley is the halfway point on the Nakasendo, the famous Edo period route connecting Tokyo to Kyoto. It's a stunning area with an incredible amount of natural beauty - we hope to return soon to explore it more!

Uchinada Kite Festival, Tooth Fairy, and Birthdays in Japan

Wed, 17 May 2023 06:00:00 -0400

This week we're reading a couple emails from listeners! One with tips on renting city bikes in Kanazawa, and another with a question about making friends in a foreign country. We're also talking about the Uchinada World Kite Festival this past weekend, what kids in Japan do with their baby teeth, and special birthdays in Japan.

Earthquakes in Ishikawa Prefecture, All You Can Eat Strawberry Picking, and Bikepacking in Japan

Wed, 10 May 2023 09:00:00 -0400

For the first time, this podcast episode is also available as a video! Check out our brand new YouTube channel @RamblingRamsbothams (the video quality will continue to improve as this was the first try!) :)

As for the content, this week we're talking about a couple big earthquakes that happened here on the Noto Peninsula of Ishikawa Prefecture (up to a 6.5 of 7 on the Shindo Scale out in Suzu!) We're also talking about bikepacking in Japan, getting your bike out of the airport, and reserving campsites - plus a bus trip where Annie got to partake in all-you-can-eat strawberry picking.

Our giveaway is still on-going, so if you leave a written review, we'll mail you a hand painted postcard! Frogs are "kaeru" in Japanese, which is also the word for "to return" - because of this, frogs are a good luck symbol for returning home or having luck return to you. If you send us a review, we'll send you some good luck in the mail! :) Just email us (ramblingramsbothams@gmail.com) to tell us your mailing address for sending the card. Thank you!

Bike Racing in Gunma, School Turned Museum, Golden Week in Japan, and Giveaway!

Wed, 03 May 2023 07:00:00 -0400

Giveaway News! In this episode we mention a postcard mailing for anyone who gives this podcast a review! The first 6 people to write reviews will get a hand-painted watercolor postcard mailed from Japan, with a frog on it for good luck (Kaeru means both frog and "to return" in Japanese, which is why they're seen as symbols of good fortune returning!) Anyone after those 6 will receive paper frog stickers as a small token of good luck as well! Make sure to email us (ramblingramsbothams@gmail.com) to share your mailing address so we can get the good luck frogs to you - Thank You!

As for the episode content... this past weekend we took a road trip to Gunma Prefecture for Zeb's 2nd JBCF (Japan Bicycling Club Federation) road race! We'll talk about how his race went, Annie's scenic ride, and our hotel in the hot spring area of nearby Niigata Prefecture.

On the drive home, we stopped in Tokamachi to see the ex-Sanada Elementary School in Hachi Village, now transformed into a walk through museum by picture book artist Seizo Tashima.

It's currently Golden Week here in Japan - what does that mean and what are the holidays for?

More info on JBCF: https://jbcfroad.jp/
School Museum info: https://www.echigo-tsumari.jp/en/travelinformation/picturebookart/

Tonami Tulip Fair, Japanese Library Cards, Meeting Students & Bike Race Prep

Thu, 27 Apr 2023 08:00:00 -0400

This past week we went to the Tonami Tulip Fair in Toyama Prefecture, one of the biggest Tulip Festivals in Japan! There were 3 million tulips of 300 different varieties, and we also got to enjoy some new (to us) cycling routes in that prefecture.

Also in this episode we talk about getting a library card, Zeb getting to meet the new First Year students, starting the drivers license process (International Drivers Licenses only last one year), and preparations for another cycling road race weekend.

Want to know more about seeing the tulips in Toyama? https://fair.tulipfair.or.jp/en/

Leasing A Car In Japan, New School Schedules, Elections, & My 'Nyamber' Cat Cards

Sat, 22 Apr 2023 04:00:00 -0400

We finally got a car! We also immediately let the battery die... But aside from that mistake, it's been another great week in Uchinada. Zeb has a new school schedule with the JET Programme, some friends from the US visited, and we're enjoying spring weather (and sounds). One spring sound we're not enjoying so much are the "election cars" - more on that in the episode. Finally we'll talk about JR Pass pricing news, and the new My Number (my nyamber) cards for cats!

Field Trip Episode! Come With Us and Our Family on a Trip Around Japan (Tokyo, Kyoto, & Kanazawa)

Sun, 16 Apr 2023 07:00:00 -0400

This episode format is a little different than usual because we're taking the recorders out of the house and along with us on a trip! Not just any trip through Japan though...Annie's family is visiting from the USA! We'll bring you along through Tokyo, Kyoto, and Kanazawa, so you can hear all the city sounds, nature noises, and first reactions to traveling in Japan.

We start with the more modern sights in West Tokyo (Shibuya, Harajuku, and Shinjuku), and then head to more traditional temple sights in East Tokyo the next day (Sensoji Temple in Asakusa, the Imperial Palace and Gardens). We also make custom ink colors at Kakimori! In Kyoto, we visit Kiyomizu Dera, Fushimi Inari, and make a day trip to Nara. Finally in Kanazawa, we visit the castle, the tea districts, the samurai district, and see our apartment in Uchinada.

Afterwards, you can hear Annie's family's top ten lists for favorite foods, most fun things, and most unique things to Japan.

Peak Cherry Blossoms, Alphabetical Sorting in Japanese?, Leasing A Car, and JET Programme Results

Tue, 04 Apr 2023 06:00:00 -0400

It's been peak cherry blossom week here in the Kanazawa area, and this week we're talking about hanami and enjoying the sakura blossoms on bike rides around town! We also talk about going to the new Ishikawa Prefectural Library, how you sort things in a language without an alphabet, our new car lease, and JET Programme results.

Road Racing in Shizuoka, Renting A Car In Japan, & Fitting Two Bikes Inside A Kei Car

Wed, 29 Mar 2023 06:00:00 -0400

We rented a car, drove to Shizuoka Prefecture, and had our first Japan cycling road race experience! It was Zeb's first race with the Japan Bicyclist Club Federation (JBCF) - how did the races go? How is road racing in Japan different? How do you do a cycling road trip without a bike rack?

We also talk about riding through tea fields in Shizuoka (this area is the leading producer of tea in the country!), what a kei car (keijidosha, 軽自動車) is, and how toll roads work.

Here's more information about the JBCF, the road racing tour that Zeb is participating in this season: https://jbcfroad.jp/

Spring Equinox, School Sports Day, New Foods, and No Masks

Wed, 22 Mar 2023 19:00:00 -0400

We're recording this on Shubun no Hi (春分の日), or the Spring Equinox, which is also a public holiday in Japan! This week we talk about the arrival of cherry blossoms, sports day at school, and mask-wearing guidance being eased. We also got to try some new foods at an izakaya this week, including firefly squid, ochazuke (tea over rice), and bai-gai shellfish.

We Rode Bikes to Ono in Fukui Prefecture! Japanese Guesthouses, Castles, Bikepacking, and Dinosaurs

Wed, 15 Mar 2023 08:00:00 -0400

It's finally spring, and this past weekend we got out the bike bags again for another cycling trip through the Japanese countryside! This time we were heading to Fukui Prefecture, to the city of Ono. We rode by Hakusan National Park, along the Tedori River, on the Tedori Canyon Cycle Path, and hiked up to see the view of the Ono Castle.

We'll talk about why we chose this location, how we pack the bikes, what route we took, Ono's castle and dinosaurs, and the guesthouse we stayed in.

Zeb's Pro Cycling Team Spot, High School Graduation in Japan, and Haircuts

Wed, 08 Mar 2023 05:00:00 -0500

If you listened to last week, we have an update on Zeb's Japan Pro Cycling opportunity! We're looking forward to traveling to some races - hopefully starting at the end of this month!

We also talk about the high school graduation ceremony at Zeb's school, and what getting a haircut is like in Japan.

New Bike Day, the Emperor's Birthday, and Hinamatsuri (Girl's Day)

Tue, 28 Feb 2023 19:00:00 -0500

Zeb got a new road bike, and he might have a new team soon! This week we're talking more about bike racing in Japan, importing bikes & fees, and his potential opportunity with a Japan Pro Tour cycling team.

We're also talking about holidays in Japan! Last week was the emperor's birthday (天皇誕生日, Tenno tanjobi) so we had a free day to explore Kanazawa and try a new coffee shop. This week "Girl's Day" will be celebrated (雛祭り, Hinamatsuri). How do you celebrate girl's day in Japan? Why was this the first birthday celebration for the current emperor? And where can you buy grits in Japan?

Thousands of New Japanese Islands Discovered, Konkatsu Marriage Parties, and Dancing Cats

Tue, 21 Feb 2023 19:00:00 -0500

Did you know that Japan discovered 7,000 new islands this week? What's the person to vending machine ratio here? When did the first Japanese cyclist participate in a Grand Tour? How was Pocari Sweat invented? Why is there a train station famous for dancing cats?

This week we're doing something a bit different with a "fun facts" format, where we share some interesting things about Japan with each other! Have a fun fact about Japan that you'd like to share? Let us know!

Sapporo Snow Festival Trip Pt. 2! Plus Valentines Day in Japan

Wed, 15 Feb 2023 05:00:00 -0500

We're talking about the Snow Festival in today's part 2 episode about our trip to Sapporo. Which snow sculpture won "best in show"? What did we eat in Hokkaido? What's Noguchi's Play Mountain?

Plus, we talk about how you celebrate Valentine's Day in Japan (who gives chocolate, and why?), and Zeb gets to ride his bike with some new friends.

Jozenkei Yukitouro Candle Event & Onsen in Hokkaido: Sapporo Snow Festival Trip Pt. 1!

Wed, 08 Feb 2023 18:00:00 -0500

This week we talk about our trip up to Hokkaido for the 2023 Sapporo Snow Festival (held again for the first time in 3 years!) In part 1, we're talking about our first stop in the nearby town of Jozenkei for the Yukitouro (雪灯路 - Snow Candle Way) Event. Thousands of candles were lit around the snowy shrine to illuminate the winter atmosphere ( 定山渓神社 - Jozenkei Shrine).

We also talk about enjoying outdoor onsen, tasty omurice & baked goods, a frozen waterfall, and tips that Annie wished she knew before visiting a Japanese clinic.

Part 2 will be all about Sapporo, and the rest of the snowy fun that weekend!

What's So Great About Glasses and Curtains in Japan? Plus Bike Racing Updates

Wed, 01 Feb 2023 05:00:00 -0500

We're coming to you from our newly cozy Japanese apartment, thanks to a second layer of curtains to protect us in Ishikawa's latest winter storm! This week we have an update on bike racing and cycling licenses in Japan, pro tips on buying prescription glasses when you visit, then end of the school year for graduating high school students, and getting ready for our Sapporo trip this week!

Nabe, Shimenawa on Sacred Trees, Bike Racing in Japan, and Screaming Birds

Wed, 25 Jan 2023 06:00:00 -0500

This week we talk about staying warm by eating Nabe (hot pot) dishes, finding a Totoro-like shrine with Shinboku, and the very unique screams of the brown-eared Bulbul bird. We also talk about bike racing in Japan, and Zeb's research on how to register for a cycling road race.

Unique Izakaya Food, College Entrance Exams, and Zeb on the School Website

Wed, 18 Jan 2023 06:00:00 -0500

This week we were served some foods we've never tried before while at an Izakaya with friends, but not all of them were dishes we'd choose to eat again... We also talk about the nationwide University entrance exams which happened this week, and the very friendly feature of Zeb on the front page of his high school's website.

Coming of Age Day, Earthquakes, and Kutaniyaki

Wed, 11 Jan 2023 07:00:00 -0500

This week we had Coming of Age Day (成人の日, Seijin no Hi), felt our first earthquake, learned how to prepare matcha, tried Oshiruko (sweet bean soup with mochi) at our Japanese class party, and bought some Kutaniyaki.

New Years in Japan! Mailing Nengajo, Reiwa 5, and Annie's Police Visit

Wed, 04 Jan 2023 06:00:00 -0500

This episode is all about New Years celebrations in Japan! We welcomed the year 2023 (and also Reiwa 5), talked about hanging Shime-kazari on front doors, mailing Nengajo, foods you eat to celebrate the New Year, and shrines for Hatsumode. Plus, Annie goes to a police station (or Koban) for the first time!

How Did We Celebrate Christmas in Japan?

Wed, 28 Dec 2022 05:00:00 -0500

We've been feeling festive this week, and this episode is all about Christmas celebrations and winter storms! Zeb's winter break at school started with a proper snowstorm, where the Kanazawa area received nearly 3 feet of snow. Unfortunately that canceled Zeb's "bonenkai" or work party, but it made for a cozy holiday weekend at home! We also talk about our Christmas gift exchange, lunch with friends, a special Christmas Cake delivery, and more!

Kimono Fitting, Making A Reservation in Japanese, Nomihouidai, & Zeb's Birthday

Wed, 21 Dec 2022 07:00:00 -0500

We celebrated Zeb's birthday this past weekend and Annie made her first reservation over the phone in Japanese to have pizza dinner at a restaurant in Kanazawa! We also talk about kimono fitting and Annie's opportunity to wear an iro uchikake, enjoying a nomihouidai (all-you-can-drink) dinner with a friend, a cozy wine bar in Kanazawa, upcoming Christmas plans, and the first snow of the season in Uchinada.

Futomaki Sushi Cooking Class, Italian Dinner, and International Paper Sizes

Wed, 14 Dec 2022 06:00:00 -0500

This week, we attend a futomaki (maki sushi roll) cooking class, enjoy a huge wine pour, learn about international standard paper sizes, see a Kamoshika (serow deer) on a scenic bike ride, and start getting used to winter weather here in Ishikawa Prefecture.

Hyakumansan Half-Marathon, Hail, and Howling Wind

Wed, 07 Dec 2022 06:00:00 -0500

December has arrived, and so has the chilly weather! Zeb saw snow for the first time on his bike ride this week, and we started getting some hail here in Uchinada! Annie successfully finished her first half-marathon, and Zeb's students are in the middle of exams. What was the half-marathon like in Kanazawa? What's new on our website? Listen to this week's episode to find out!

We Baked A Pumpkin Pie in Our Microwave - Happy Thanksgiving From Japan!

Wed, 30 Nov 2022 06:00:00 -0500

We were embarrassingly late about realizing that our Japanese microwave has a true "oven" function, something we've never seen on the microwaves back home! Luckily we learned this just in time for Thanksgiving, so we could make a good ole American pumpkin pie - or a kabocha pie in this case. This week we also talk about Zeb's "report card" from his Principal, and our new website redesign!

Why Is Annie In The Newspaper? Elementary School Visits and Kanazawa Cooking Class

Wed, 23 Nov 2022 07:00:00 -0500

This week, we're talking about Annie's visit to one of the local elementary schools in Uchinada for the "Cultural Exchange Assembly", and joining a cooking class in Kanazawa! (Annie even somehow made it in the newspaper for one of the elementary school visits!)

What did we cook in the class? What American song did the elementary school-ers sing? Who is big mama? Answers to all this and more in this episode!

Plus...BIG NEWS! We have a new website! Check out the link below to see the redesign, and let us know what you think :)

Kanazawa Day! Leaf Peeping at Kenrokuen and Lantern Festival at the Castle

Thu, 17 Nov 2022 18:00:00 -0500

This past Saturday was unseasonably warm - the perfect weather to enjoy the Kenroku-en Garden and Kanazawa Castle! While Zeb went on his favorite ride route yet, Annie took her mamachari into town to admire the fall leaves in the famous garden. We met up for ramen dinner and walked around the castle for the beautiful lights festival and lantern event! Also...what are paper pants?

Here's What Went Wrong on Our Latest Japan Cycling Adventure...

Fri, 11 Nov 2022 03:00:00 -0500

This past weekend we had planned a fun stay at a guesthouse in the neighboring prefecture of Toyama. The fall foliage is nearing it's peak here in Japan and we wanted to admire it by bike! 55 miles into our 67 mile route though...we had to turn back home. Find out what went wrong on our latest cycling adventure!

This week we also discuss the final day of the Uchinada high school festival, and the new hinoki wood futon palette, which is Zeb's favorite purchase yet.

How Did We Celebrate Halloween in Japan?

Wed, 02 Nov 2022 09:00:00 -0400

This past week was filled with a lot of good bike riding and food (like black ramen!), but it was also Halloween time! Halloween has only recently begun to be celebrated in Japan, and we talk about getting to dress up and volunteer at a festive party for local kids here in Uchinada. The dress-up fun continued with Zeb's high school festival, where he was asked to participate in their comedy fashion show - dressed as a little girl from a popular anime show!

90 Days in Japan - Is It Still What We Hoped?

Tue, 25 Oct 2022 19:00:00 -0400

This time last year, Zeb had submitted his application for the JET Programme and we began to anxiously await the results. Fast forward to today, where we've been lucky enough to have lived in Japan for 90 days already!

Is Uchinada what we had hoped for? How's Japanese language study going? Did we just have rose-colored glasses thinking about Kanazawa from our honeymoon? What are our favorite parts about our new daily routines?

Join us on this podcast as we review the "4 Stage of Culture Shock" and recap life abroad in Japan so far!

Watching the F1 Race at Suzuka Circuit (Part 2!)

Mon, 17 Oct 2022 07:00:00 -0400

After three years, F1 racing has returned to Japan - and we got to witness it! In this episode (part 2 of our anniversary trip to Osaka), we talk about the F1 race at Suzuka Circuit in Mie Prefecture, how NOT to use the trains in Japan, second hand shopping in Osaka, and the best okinomiyaki .

Didn't hear last week's episode yet? Go back to listen to part 1 about how we got to Osaka, the surprise stay at Lake Biwa, our private onsen, and a kaiseki dinner.

Surprise Anniversary Trip & Best Dinner Yet in Japan (Part 1!)

Thu, 13 Oct 2022 05:00:00 -0400

Last week, Zeb planned a wedding anniversary trip that was a surprise for Annie! They were already planning to head down to watch the F1 Race at Suzuka Circuit (that's in Part 2!) but Zeb had an even better idea on the way down. What made the hotel on Lake Biwa so unique? Listen to this week's episode to find out!

Plus, we talk about conveyor belt sushi, a kaiseki dinner that was Annie's favorite meal ever, and the new "tsukimi flavor" mcflurry at McDonalds in Japan (what does tsukimi flavor taste like you ask?)

Stay tuned for Part 2 to hear about the rest of the trip!

We Rode Bikes From Kanazawa to Shirakawa-go

Tue, 04 Oct 2022 09:00:00 -0400

The route was steep, questionable in places, and exceedingly beautiful - How many miles was the bike route? How many wild pigs did we see? Is winter really the best time to visit Shirakawa-go? We'll answer these questions and more!

We also received our first email, and will be answering questions about the JET Programme application (deadlines are November 18th for USA applicants!) and what the cycling scene is like here.

Japan Borders Are Open Again!

Tue, 27 Sep 2022 09:00:00 -0400

Have you heard? Japan is finally opening! Starting October 11th tourists are free to come to Japan without all the border restrictions previously in place! We'll talk about what that means & also the internal tourism subsidies rolling out for travel within Japan.

We also talk about what we did this past week, including a "welcome party" that our neighbors hosted! We got to enjoy a Japanese barbecue, traditional games, and crafts like origami and calligraphy.

Our Noto Peninsula Cycling Trip in Japan's Ishikawa Prefecture

Tue, 20 Sep 2022 09:00:00 -0400

This past weekend we took a bike trip around the Noto Peninsula here in Ishikawa Prefecture! We started in Uchinada and cycled the perimeter counter-clockwise in three days, stopping in Wakura, Notojima, and Wajima. It was 250 miles of scenic coastal views! We'll talk about the onsen towns we stopped in, Annie's new favorite town mascot, highlights of the route, what we packed, what we ate while biking, and more.

Hello from Kanazawa Castle Park, JET Programme Dinner, & Mailing Packages from Japan

Tue, 13 Sep 2022 06:00:00 -0400

Today's episode might sound a little different, because we're recording from the park near Kanazawa Castle! We're in the city for Zeb's orientation with the other Ishikawa Prefecture ALTs in the JET Programme, and found a spot to record how this past week went. We'll talk about Zeb's second teaching school (Kanazawa Chuo Senior High), how to mail packages from Japan, and how to pay for tickets & bills at the konbini. Finally, we'll reveal what we got in the mail this week to celebrate our anniversary!

School Is In Session! Zeb's First Week of Classes, Japanese Lessons, and Meeting Neighbors

Mon, 05 Sep 2022 06:00:00 -0400

This week was the start of the school year for Zeb at Uchinada High School! Hear about his week of classes, first impressions, and how his introduction went at the school assembly. But the high school-ers weren't the only students this week... Annie and Zeb started taking Japanese lessons at the town's Cultural Hall in Uchinada! We'll talk more about those classes, a beach cleanup, bike rides, and a dinner with the other JET Programme employees from the surrounding area in this episode!

Furnishing Our Japanese Apartment, Bike Riding, and Visiting Kanazawa

Sun, 28 Aug 2022 19:00:00 -0400

We finally have a couch and a kitchen table again! This past week our Nitori furniture got delivered, and so did our gravel bikes from home! We've already been able to go on a few longer rides around the beach, in the mountains, and to Kanazawa.

How's the riding around Uchinada? Where can you get coffee in Kanazawa? What is Omurice? Is it better to bike or take the train into the city? Is Kenroku-en Garden a good place for a picnic? Join us this week to find out!

Hiking Mt. Hiei & Daimonji Bonfires (Gozan no Okuribi)! Our Trip to Kyoto for Obon (Part 2)

Thu, 25 Aug 2022 20:00:00 -0400

It's the 2nd half of our episode about celebrating Obon in Kyoto! This one is all about our hike up Mt. Hiei, visiting the Enryakuji temple, and seeing the Daimonji fires for Obon (the Daimonji Gozan no Okuribi). Don't forget to listen to the end for our Japanese word-of-the-week!

Interested in hiking Mt. Hiei (Hieizan ) yourself? https://www.hieizan.gr.jp/en/hieizan/

If you haven't listened to Part 1 yet, check it out to hear more about what about Obon is, the Sanjyusangendo Temple, the Kiyomizu Dera Temple, and Obanzai dinners.

Sanjyusangendo Temple, Kiyomizu Dera, & Obanzai dinner! Our Trip to Kyoto for Obon (Part 1)

Mon, 22 Aug 2022 07:00:00 -0400

Get ready for another 2 part-er! There was so much going on last weekend in Kyoto that we couldn't fit it all in one episode. In this one, we'll talk about what the holiday of Obon is, seeing the 1001 Buddhas in the Sanjyusangendo Temple, and visiting Kiyomizu Dera Temple. We also get to enjoy an Obanzai dinner in Kyoto!

Stay tuned for later in the week to hear about our hike up Mt. Hiei, the Enryakuji temple, and seeing the Daimonji fires for Obon. Plus, the Japanese word-of-the-week won't be revealed until the second part!

What is Rambling Ramsbothams? Listen to Our Trailer!

Sat, 20 Aug 2022 06:00:00 -0400

Ever wondered what living in Japan is like for foreigners?
We're Annie & Zeb Ramsbotham, hosts of "Rambling Ramsbothams".
While our journey in Japan might be rambling, we hope this podcast isn't! Join us as we move from the United States to Ishikawa Prefecture, work in the JET Programme, explore Japan by bike, and navigate our new home. This podcast is for anyone curious about moving abroad, or what life in Japan is like for a couple of Americans.
Subscribe to Rambling Ramsbothams anywhere you get your podcasts (Thats Rambling R-a-m-s-b-o-t-h-a-m-s). Start listening to the adventures today!

Send this trailer to your friends who need a new podcast, follow us on instagram @ramblingramsbothams and check out our website at https://www.ramblingramsbothams.com/

Our First Week in Uchinada, Japan: Beaches, Bikes, & Buying Furniture

Sun, 14 Aug 2022 05:00:00 -0400

What have we been up to during our first week living in Uchinada? Join us as we talk about our new apartment, shopping for furniture (and curtains!) at Nitori, and visiting the Sea of Japan for the first time. We also get to buy (and register!?) our new mamachari bikes. There's a Dino Park, a forest promenade trail, and a bakery just outside our apartment - what more could you want?

Also, follow us at @ramblingramsbothams on Instagram if you want to see the current cardboard box recording studio we have set up in our apartment :)

We're just starting to get settled here in Ishikawa Prefecture, and there's lots more exploring to do! Have a question or idea? Send us an email at ramblingramsbothams@gmail.com, or visit our website: https://www.ramblingramsbothams.com/

Part 2: How Did Annie Get To Japan?

Wed, 10 Aug 2022 22:00:00 -0400

Part 2! It's our first weekend in together in Japan! In this episode, Annie talks about final packing, the process of entering Japan after the flight from the United States, and what she and Zeb have been up to so far. Hear about ramen, Yamato luggage shipping, cicadas, art installations, and vintage markets. There's a lot to do in Shinjuku for the Tokyo weekend before heading up to the new apartment in Uchinada!

Listen to Part 1 to hear how Zeb arrived in Japan the week before, and what his JET Programme Orientation was like.

We're In Japan! Part 1: Zeb's JET Programme Training in Tokyo and Arrival in Uchinada

Sun, 07 Aug 2022 08:00:00 -0400

We're finally both in Japan! This is the first part of a two-part episode, where we talk about our arrival to Japan, Zeb's orientation in Tokyo, seeing Uchinada for the first time, and finally meeting up with Annie a week later.

How was the 13 hour flight? What was the JET Orientation like in Tokyo? How did Zeb get his Japanese residence card? What was the first day of work in Uchinada like? We'll discuss all this and more in today's part 1! Listen to the end to hear Zeb's "Japanese Word of the Week".

In part 2, Annie will talk about how she got to Japan, what they've done together in Tokyo so far, and what's next on the journey to Uchinada to move into the apartment together!

Road Trip: Final Day Before Departure to Japan, Visas, & International Driver's Permits!

Sun, 31 Jul 2022 18:00:00 -0400

It's finally time to go! This is a special "road trip" episode where Annie takes Zeb to Nashville for his final day in the USA. They make a few pit stops along the way: picking up their International Driver's Permit, getting their passports (with visas!) from the Japanese consulate, and of course, lots of road trip snacks! How do they spend the final day in America before Zeb catches his flight to Tokyo? Tag along for their last American road trip before making the move to Japan!

Omiyage, Checking vs. Shipping Bags & Planes vs. Trains

Sun, 24 Jul 2022 20:00:00 -0400

We're counting down the days until Zeb's flight to Japan! In this episode we'll talk about how we're taking all of our stuff to Japan. Should be check or ship our bikes? We're also planning our first days in the country and talk about our preferred methods of travel. Should we fly or take the bullet train between Uchinada and Tokyo? And last but not least we'll cover the hotly contested "Omiyage" or souvenir. Are you expected to bring a gift for all your coworkers?

Phone Contracts, Culture Shock & Breakfast in Japan

Fri, 15 Jul 2022 15:00:00 -0400

What's your Cookout tray order? What kind of phone plan should you get in Japan? When does "culture shock" set in? Zeb leaves for JET Orientation in 2 weeks and we're getting final details set before moving over, rambling about food, and reading the JET Programme General Information Handbook.

First we'll visit Annie's favorite regional fast food joint (Cookout!) for one of our last good ole American drive-thru experiences before moving to Japan without a car. This leads into a discussion about food we'll miss, food we're looking forward to, and the surprising breakfast dish that our Japanese tutor told us about. Then Zeb will read from a section of the JET Programme Handbook on "Culture Shock" phases and tips. Do you know the 4 stages of Culture Shock?

Apartment Contracts in Japan!

Thu, 07 Jul 2022 16:00:00 -0400

We chose an apartment in Japan! In this episode we'll talk about the rental contract process, the final paperwork that has to be completed before moving, and finally read a journal entry that a previous JET Programme ALT left us. What was their first experience in Uchinada, Ishikawa Prefecture like? Where will we be living? All that and more in this week's episode.

Contact From My JET Programme Predecessor

Tue, 28 Jun 2022 08:00:00 -0400

Unlike the classic film from 1997, this signal came from our planet. Zeb's JET ALT predecessor reached out to him with a nice and informative email! In this episode we'll dive into that email and discuss some of the implications of this not so extraterrestrial contact.

We've also decided we're enjoying podcasting and we're doing our best to improve the quality. We hope that you'll bear with us as we continue to make some tweaks here and there. Thanks!

Learning About Our JET Programme Placement!

Fri, 24 Jun 2022 15:00:00 -0400

Today's episode is an exciting one, we learned about where Zeb will be working. He's off to Uchinada Senior High School right on the Sea of Japan coast, in Ishikawa Prefecture. In this episode we dive into where Uchinada is and talk a little about what there is to do there. There's also a little bit of rambling about what we're taking with us. Overall we're really excited to be placed in this town!

Moving to Japan: The What, The Why & The Where

Wed, 22 Jun 2022 14:00:00 -0400

This first episode is all about us beginning the process for our upcoming move to Japan with the JET Program. Zeb got accepted as an assistant english language teacher (an ALT), and we just found out the prefecture we'll be moving to! Our journey might be rambling, but we hope this podcast isn't!

How are we able to do this? Why did we want to? And where are we going? All of those questions and more, answered in this first episode of Rambling Ramsbothams.