Kyoto Fun Podcast

Learn all about the Shinkansen bullet train of Japan. We talk about the history, interesting facts, and design as well as tips on how to buy tickets and what to expect on board. Enjoy the ride!

The vending machines of Japan are known around the world for their interesting offerings. But did you know there are more than 5 million of them in the country? Tune in to learn more from your local resident host in this episode of the Kyoto Fun podcast.

Link to the video mentioned during the podcast.

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A guide to each season in Japan. Hear about the festivals of summer and the autumn colors. The winter "onsen" hot springs baths, and the spectacular spring with blossoms galore. Get tips on weather in Japan and much more on this special episode.

Find out more about the cherry blossoms and their special place in Japanese culture. We talk about their history, when is the best time to see them and how they have a special place in Japanese people's hearts.

Learn all about how the taxis work in Japan. I talk about the fares, how to catch a cab, and what to expect when you take a cab. Plus how to get back something you may have lost.

Learn all about the train network including a general overview, things to expect, how to navigate the system, train etiquette and more. Lots of general tips for your future trip to Tokyo.

The five things to know before you go to Japan. I talk about the very basics in the categories of safety, money, getting connected, getting around and food. All the info you need to stay safe and arrive in Japan stress-free. How to find an ATM, how to recover lost property, SIM cards, train passes, pocket wifi and lots of other little things to know too.

Join me as I take you for a walk through the Gion district, one of the most famous places in Kyoto. We walk past the tea houses, restaurants, clubs and bars and even come across a real geisha and apprentice maiko-san along the way. Learn more about this special part of Kyoto before you visit.

Do you have questions about the Japan Rail "JR" Pass? Listen to this podcast for tips on if it's worth it, the different kinds of passes and all the other info you might need. Save money and time on the amazing train system in the world!

Leave your swimsuit at home and jump into the soothing hot waters of a public bath "sento". Get all the tips you need to make sure you follow the proper etiquette and discover a local custom that dates back centuries. These tips can also help you navigate a hot springs "onsen" bath too. Take the plunge with Kyoto Fun.

Grab your chopsticks and get ready to learn everything you need to know about the basics of table manners in Japan. Where to put your chopsticks, to when and where to slurp your food. Impress the locals and relax in knowing you are not messing it up. Bon appetite or as they say in Japan "itadakimasu!"

Learn ten useful expressions to help you navigate your trip to Japan. Impress the locals and the other people travelling with you too. Learn how to greet people, order something in a restaurant and more. Speak Japanese before you arrive in Japan!

The top 5 in Kyoto. Learn about Fushimi Inari, Kiyomizu Temple, Bamboo Forest of Arashiyama and more. The best times to visit the temples and tips on how to organize your time in the most beautiful city in Japan.