Something Strange Is Happening in Hokkaido | @AbroadinJapan Podcast #35 | Summary and Q&A

TL;DR

Traveler experiences challenges with Japanese banking, encounters a plague of insects in Sapporo, and witnesses a mass mortality event of sardines in Hakodate.

Key Insights

• 👹 Japanese banking can be challenging, requiring multiple documents for even basic tasks.
• 😮 Insects, such as the Yuki Mushi, can pose a surprise challenge for travelers in Japan.
• 🧑‍🏭 Mass mortality events, like the sardine incident in Hakodate, can occur due to various factors in marine ecosystems.
• 🧑‍🏭 The tomb of Jesus Christ in Japan is maintained by a local yogurt factory, adding an unusual twist to the story.
• 🤕 Tosa Inu dogs are banned in many countries due to their powerful and intimidating nature.
• 🤵 Dog fighting, although controversial, is still legal in Japan and involves dressing up winning dogs in ceremonial attire.
• 🌾 Plain rice can be ordered at restaurants in Japan, and dietary preferences are generally accommodated.

Transcript

I traveled around for 21 days made a billion videos done some insane things but the real challenge was getting like $5 out my bank account wow hello everyone and welcome to the abroad Japan podcast probably the best way of learning about life in Japan about actually being in Japan I'm your host Chris broad we're joined as always by England's top Ja... Read More

Questions & Answers

Q: How did the host navigate the challenges of Japanese banking while traveling?

The host explains that Japanese banking requires multiple documents and recounts a story where he forgot a document, causing complications. He highlights the frustrations of Japanese banking and the difficulties he faced.

Q: What is the significance of the mass mortality event of sardines in Hakodate?

The host discusses the possible causes of the event, including migration patterns, exhaustion from being chased by larger fish, and sudden drops in water temperature. They also address concerns about the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant water release, although it is unlikely to be the cause.

Q: Have the hosts seen a Tosa Inu, a banned breed of dog in many countries?

The hosts mention that they have not seen a Tosa Inu, but describe it as a powerful and intimidating breed. They also briefly discuss dog fighting in Japan, which is still legal and involves dressing up winning dogs in ceremonial robes.

Q: Is it possible to order plain rice at restaurants in Japan?

The hosts assure the listener that it is possible to order plain rice at restaurants in Japan, and some establishments even offer all-you-can-eat rice options. They note that there are no strict rules regarding ordering plain rice and that dietary preferences and allergies are generally accommodated.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• The host shares his experiences traveling around Japan for 21 days, facing challenges with Japanese banking and encountering a plague of insects in Sapporo.

• They discuss a mass mortality event of sardines in Hakodate, with tons of dead fish floating on the surface of the sea.

• The host reflects on his trip, revisiting places from previous videos and discovering new things, such as the tomb of Jesus Christ being maintained by a yogurt factory.