64 What's the difference: East vs West Japan? (Kanto vs Kansai)

64 What's the difference: East vs West Japan? (Kanto vs Kansai)

Author: JapanKyo.com September 21, 2022 Duration: 58:33

On this episode of Ichimon Japan we ask: What's the difference: East vs West Japan?

Topics Discussed

  • Some of the differences observed in East and West Japan (higashi and nishi nihon)
  • Differences in culture and food seen in Kansai and Kanto
  • Where the border between East and West Japan is
  • The difference in how people from East vs West Japan use escalators
  • About where Ishikawa is in relation to East vs West Japan
  • Theories about the origin of the escalator difference in East vs West Japan
  • The difference in hertz between East vs West Japan
  • About differences in syntax/language in East vs West Japan
  • Language differences in Kansai vs Kanto
  • Naosu vs Katazukeru/Shimau
  • Shoppai vs Karai/shiokarai
  • Sasareru vs Kamareru/Kuwareru
  • Makku vs Makudo
  • USJ vs Yuniba
  • Nikuman vs Butaman
  • Sauces used in East and West Japan
  • Taste preferences in East vs West Japan (Kansai vs Kanto)
  • Tamagoyaki/dashimakitamago in Kanto vs Kansai
  • Mochi in Kansai vs Kanto
  • How miso soup placement may vary depending on whether you are in Kansai or Kanto
  • About aburasoba
  • Ishikawa curry
  • What torotaku is
  • What monjayaki is
  • And much more!

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Sources, Links, Videos, Etc.

Check out the latest episodes of Japan Station.

We Want Your Questions

Is there something about Japan that confuses you? Is there something about Japanese culture that you would like to learn more about? Is there something in Japanese history that you would like us to explain? We're always looking for new questions about Japan to answer, so if you have one, please send it to ichimon@japankyo.com.

Special Thanks

Opening/Closing Theme: Produced by Apol (YouTube, Twitter, Facebook, Fiverr)

Ichimon Japan cover art: Produced by Erik R.

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Full Show Notes

 


Curious about why some Japanese words sound so specific or what really lies behind a historical anecdote you heard? Ichimon Japan: A Podcast About Japan and the Japanese Language by JapanKyo.com digs into exactly those kinds of inquiries. Hosts Tony and Ryan, both holding master's degrees in Japanese Language & Linguistics, use listener questions as a starting point for deep, conversational explorations. Their approach is grounded in personal experience living in Japan and thorough research using Japanese and English sources, which allows them to move beyond surface-level explanations. Within this podcast, you'll hear discussions that weave together language quirks, societal norms, and lesser-known historical threads, all while gently correcting common misunderstandings about the country. It feels less like a formal lecture and more like joining two knowledgeable friends who are eager to share what they've learned. Whether the topic is a subtle cultural practice, the etymology of a phrase, or an event from Japan's past, each episode builds a richer, more nuanced picture. The result is a consistently engaging listen for anyone wanting to move past stereotypes and develop a deeper, more informed appreciation for Japan and its language.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 86

Ichimon Japan: A Podcast About Japan and the Japanese Language by JapanKyo.com
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