No more 「すみません。もう一度、ゆっくりお願いします」
Nihongomimi Podcast is a Japanese-language podcast designed to train your ear for real, natural-speed Japanese.
Each episode explores Japanese culture, mindset, and everyday life.
Hosted by a native Japanese speaker Marie Nukaya, this podcast helps learners move beyond textbooks and understand how Japanese is actually used.
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@nihongo-mimi
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nihongomimi/
Website: marienukaya.com/nihongomimi
What does ikigai really mean to Japanese people?
In this episode of 日本語耳 (Nihongomimi), Marie explores the true meaning of ikigai, comparing the famous Western "Ikigai" diagram with how the word is actually understood in Japan. Drawing on Japanese books and personal experiences, she shares why ikigai may be much simpler—and much more meaningful—than many people think.
このエピソードでは、日本人にとっての「生きがい」とは何かについてお話しします。海外で広く知られているIKIGAIの考え方と、日本で実際に使われている「生きがい」の意味を比較しながら、日本の本や私自身の経験をもとに、その本当の魅力を紹介します。
Listen as if you're sitting with a Japanese friend, hearing natural, unfiltered Japanese at real speed.
Let's make your ears 日本語耳.
You can read the full Japanese transcript & EN translation here: https://www.marienukaya.com/nihongomimi
16 Jul 2026
Japan’s Lookism Problem | 日本人は見た目を気にしすぎ?!
Why do many people in Japan feel they can’t go outside without makeup? And why does looking “proper” matter so much in Japanese society?
In this episode of 日本語耳 (Nihongomimi), Marie talks about lookism in Japan. The pressure to look attractive, clean, and presentable, and how appearance can influence the way people see and judge others. From the importance of midashinami (身だしなみ) to beauty standards, body image, and the hidden insecurities behind appearance, you’ll discover why looking good is such a powerful part of Japanese culture.
このエピソードでは、日本の「ルッキズム（見た目による評価や偏見）」についてお話しします。なぜ日本では「すっぴんで外に出られない」と感じる人が多いのか、なぜ「きちんとして見えること」が大切にされるのか。日本で育った私自身の経験や海外との違いを交えながら紹介します。
Listen as if you’re sitting with a Japanese friend, hearing natural, unfiltered Japanese at real speed.
Let’s make your ears 日本語耳.
★ You can read the full Japanese transcript here: https://www.marienukaya.com/nihongomimi
★ For the Listening Mastery Pack (Japanese & English transcripts, vocabulary, grammar explanations, and shadowing materials), visit the 日本語耳 website.
9 Jul 2026
Reverse Culture Shock in Japan | 日本で感じた逆カルチャーショック
After years of living in Europe, what feels surprising about returning to Japan?
In this episode of 日本語耳 (Nihongomimi), Marie shares the reverse culture shock she experienced during her recent trip home—from Japan's incredibly reliable trains to surprisingly inflexible service.
You'll hear an honest, balanced perspective on the little things that make Japan feel both familiar and unexpectedly different.
このエピソードでは、一時帰国で日本に帰ったときに感じた逆カルチャーショックについてお話しします。海外生活を通して見えてきた日本の魅力と意外な一面を紹介します。
Listen as if you're sitting with a Japanese friend, hearing natural, unfiltered Japanese at real speed.
Let's make your ears 日本語耳.
You can read full EN translation & Japanese transcript here:
https://www.marienukaya.com/nihongomimi (https://www.marienukaya.com/nihongomimi)
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