Ohazassu Podcast
Society & Culture
About
A Japan-based podcast hosted by an Aussie living in Japan for 10+ years, sharing insights on life, work, travel, language, and culture. New episodes every couple of days. Sometimes more, sometimes less. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/ohazassu-podcast--5905520/support .
Episodes
- The Illusion of Knowing Japan
The episode explores the host's personal experience of moving to Japan with preconceived notions and subsequently realizing the flaws in their understanding. It touches on stereotypes and the reality of living in Japan.
- 6 Things in Japan That Make Life WAY Easier
This episode of the Ohazassu Podcast discusses six things in Japan that are helpful for daily life. The podcast explores how these elements contribute to an easier lifestyle in Japan.
- I Never Expected to Love These 4 Japanese Foods
This episode of the Ohazassu Podcast discusses four unexpected Japanese foods.
- 3 Things That Still Feel Wacky Even After 14 Years in Japan
This episode discusses three things that still feel unusual to the host after 14 years of living in Japan. It also includes a Japanese word of the day at the end.
- New Cycling Rules in Japan (2026)
This episode discusses the new cycling rules and stricter penalties enforced in Japan from April 1, 2026. The host shares their perspective on how these changes affect cyclists and drivers, focusing on the confusion and anxiety surrounding…
- It's So Different to Australia - Elementary School Graduation in Japan
This episode discusses an elementary school graduation in Japan, highlighting differences from Australian graduations and reflecting on the emotional experience of a parent. It also touches on the children's school life during the pandemic.
- Do I like living in Nagoya? Give me 1.5 hours and I'll tell you.
This episode of Ohazassu Podcast provides a comprehensive guide to living in Nagoya, Japan. It includes a walking tour of the city and a detailed discussion of the pros and cons of long-term residency, covering topics such as culture, life…
- Down with hay fever but let's try some new coffee & chat about upcoming Japan videos
The Ohazassu Podcast features a discussion about new coffee and upcoming Japanese language video content. The host also shares their experience with hay fever.
- JLPT N1/N2 Japanese Reading Isn’t Easy, But This Helped Me
This episode discusses a strategy for the JLPT N1/N2 Japanese reading section. The host shares how this method helped them pass both N1 and N2, and improved their reading speed for workplace situations in Japan.
- How Much Japanese Do You Really Need? My thoughts...
This episode of the Ohazassu Podcast explores the practical amount of Japanese language skills necessary for living in Japan. The host shares insights after 13 years, differing from textbook claims and online discussions, to provide a clea…
- 13+ years in Japan has taught me...
This episode explores over 13 years of living in Japan, highlighting the significance of mindset, cultural perspectives, and concepts like Shuhari. The host also discusses Japanese cultural tendencies to judge effort and improvement rather…
- How Living in Japan Changes Your Perception Over Time
This episode discusses the ongoing fascination of living in Japan, even after many years. The host shares personal insights on how perceptions change over time, the curiosity Japan inspires, and various aspects of daily life, including the…
- Appointment Frequency. Natural Disasters. Reality vs SNS.
This episode of Ohazassu Podcast covers topics including appointment frequency, natural disasters, and the difference between reality and social media.
- Japanese Words You’ll Never Learn in Class (But Kids Know!)
This episode of the Ohazassu Podcast features Japanese words that are used by children but are not usually taught in traditional classroom settings. The host shares real Japanese words that differ from those found in textbooks.
- Earthquake Strikes Northeastern Japan. December 8, 2025.
On December 8, 2025, an earthquake occurred in northeastern Japan. The Ohazassu Podcast covers this event.
- My Most Embarrassing Japanese Mistake
In this episode of Ohazassu Podcast, the host recounts their most embarrassing Japanese mistake. The episode also mentions links to Weekly Fascination and Exjapter.
- Cars in Japan: To Own or Not to Own?
This episode of the Ohazassu Podcast explores the topic of car ownership in Japan. The host shares their thoughts on the decision to either buy or not buy a car in the country.
- The Hidden Power of Speaking Japanese
This episode explores the hidden power of speaking Japanese. The host shares two personal stories about how knowing the language has helped them in unexpected ways.
- Christmas Presents & Abbreviations
The episode covers the experience of sending Christmas presents, a discussion on ultra-abbreviated words in Japanese, and mentions upcoming YouTube videos.
- On the Road & Color Stuff
This episode covers a host’s experiences with color grading and their recent studio lighting setup. The recording takes place while the host is traveling for work.
- Ep 100: How I Became Fluent in Japanese: Lessons From My Journey
This episode covers the host's journey to Japanese fluency, beginning in high school and continuing through their first visit to Japan. It explores the role of immersion and classroom foundations in language acquisition. The episode conclu…
- Kei Trucks. Life. Changes to Ohazassu. Upcoming content.
This episode covers Kei trucks, life updates, changes to the Ohazassu Podcast, and upcoming content.
- Helping Community or Good PR? Probably both?
The Ohazassu Podcast features a discussion on community involvement. The host was inspired by local business staff cleaning up autumn leaves.
- Impromptu Riff 11/13: Hot Water Bottles & Light Stands
This episode of the Ohazassu Podcast discusses switching to a winter wardrobe, hot water bottles, lights, and light stands. It is presented as a quick episode.
- Not-So-Impromptu Impromptu Riff: 11/11/2025
This episode covers content creation, starting with the basics, and looking towards the future. It touches on daily routines and work.
- Impromptu Riff: 11/10/2025
This episode of the Ohazassu Podcast, "Impromptu Riff," covers cycle-casting, DJI news, and reflections on a sports day. The discussion took place on November 10, 2025.
- Not-So-Impromptu Impromptu Riff: 11/6/2025
This episode of the Ohazassu Podcast discusses DJI repair updates, mentions late-night lights, and expresses an appreciation for autumn.
- Not-So-Impromptu Impromptu Riff: 11/5/2025
This episode of Ohazassu Podcast covers a DJI update, shoutouts, and discussions on being a foreigner, Gaikokujin, and learning Japanese. It also mentions YouTube links for Tracy and Paul.
- Impromptu Riff: 11/4/2025
This Ohazassu Podcast episode, "Impromptu Riff: 11/4/2025," discusses various topics including DJI issues, bacon, upcoming videos, exercise, and audience interaction.
- Impromptu Riff: 11/3/2025
This episode of Ohazassu Podcast presents an impromptu discussion. Topics include Yoro Falls and Yirgacheffe, as well as camera issues.
- Impromptu Riff: 10/30/2025
This episode of the Ohazassu Podcast features an impromptu discussion. Topics include whipper snippers, flashlights, customer service, and studio lighting.
- Impromptu Riff: 10/29/2025
This episode, titled "Impromptu Riff: 10/29/2025," discusses hectic work days, blood pressure monitors, astringency, and the benefits of morning walks.
- Impromptu Riff: 10/28/2025
This episode is an impromptu riff recorded on October 28, 2025. It covers updates and other unspecific topics.
- Brewing Success in Japan: An American's Craft Beer Story at Tall Boys Brewing (TBB) | Ep. 99
This episode features a discussion with the head brewer and co-founder of Tall Boys Brewing in Nagoya, Japan. They discuss the process of starting a brewery in Japan, including the pros and cons.
- Asia's Biggest Coffee Event SCAJ 2025 | Ep. 98
This episode of the Ohazassu Podcast discusses the host's experience at SCAJ 2025, Asia's largest coffee event. The host shares discoveries of interesting coffees and products, and introduces a Word of the Day.
- Peggy Coffee Beans Specialty Bean Roaster in Japan | Ep. 97
This episode of the Ohazassu Podcast features Peggy Coffee Beans, a specialty bean roaster in Japan. The host discusses their positive impression of the coffee beans after a recent visit.
- Ep. 96 | Bakery Cafe with a Twist
This episode features a bakery cafe called Aimer in Hokkaido, which offers handmade plant-based treats. Most ingredients are locally sourced, and the cafe is located near Niseko.
- Episode 95 | Discovering Ancient Egypt in Japan + Updates
This episode covers a visit to the "Unraveling the Mysteries of the Ancient Egypt" exhibition at Toyota City Museum and provides general updates from the host of Ohazassu Podcast.
- Monday Report
This episode of the Ohazassu Podcast, titled "Monday Report," discusses summer, floor sitting fatigue, and wireless microphone use.
- Unofficial Episode: September Updates
This episode of the Ohazassu Podcast provides September updates, including upcoming interviews and plans for the show.
- Ep 94: Travel to Hokkaido and discover Japan’s Ainu heritage
This episode explores Hokkaido and the Ainu people's heritage at Nibutani Kotan. The podcast discusses traveling to Hokkaido and discovering the Ainu culture.
- Ep. 93: Visiting Ise Shrine, Exploring Niigata’s Tunnel of Light & Reflecting on the July 30 Tsunami
This episode features recent trips to Ise Shrine and Echigo Yuzawa, highlighting art installations. The host also discusses a tsunami scare in Japan and provides a Word of the Day.
- Ep. 92: Japan's "One-Night Castle" + Tourist Drivers + More
This episode discusses Toyotomi Hideyoshi's "One-Night Castle" and tourist drivers in Japan. It also includes a Japanese word of the day related to unpredictable weather.
- Ep 91: LEGOLAND® Japan Resort + CAPCOM & Ancient Egypt Exhibitions + More
This episode of Ohazassu Podcast features a discussion of LEGOLAND Japan Resort, the Capcom exhibition at Nagoya City Art Museum, and the Ancient Egypt exhibition at Toyota City Museum. The host also shares a cashback experience with a Phi…
- Episode 90
In Episode 90 of Ohazassu Podcast, the host shares observations and reflections from a recent trip to Australia to visit family. The episode includes a Word of the Day segment.
- Episode 89
This episode discusses various topics including coffee drippers, exploring parks, finding cheap vending machines, free water and charging stations in Tokyo, and the use of paper kanji dictionaries and QR codes at restaurants.
- Episode 88
Episode 88 of Ohazassu Podcast discusses the difficulties of learning Japanese, including kanji and phonetics, and the role of AI in language acquisition. The host also reflects on expat life, isolation, and the importance of maintaining f…
- Episode 87
This episode covers a variety of topics including NHK fees, a stationery item, Japan's cherry blossom season, and addressing smartphone addiction. It also provides updates on the Ohazassu website overhaul and concludes with a Word of the D…
- Episode 86
This episode of the Ohazassu Podcast covers several topics such as plum blossoms, Skype, doctors, Amazon, police, and a frypan. It also includes a word of the day.
- Episode 85
This is Episode 85 of the Ohazassu Podcast. You can follow the podcast on X (Twitter) and Instagram.