Best PodcastQR Podcasts (2025)

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##160 - Too Cute to be Sad: Inside Japan's Yami Kawaii & Other Fashion Subcultures 32:41

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10d ago32:41

32:41

We dive into the emotional world of Japanese street fashion — from the pastel-meets-pain aesthetic of Yami Kawaii, to the mental health expression of Menhera, and the dramatic, heartbroken elegance of Jirai Kei. Discover how these styles use fashion to speak the unspeakable — blending cuteness with vulnerability, and self-expression with emotional …

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#159 - Onryo and Tatari: The Ghosts That Haunt Japan 34:50

17d ago34:50

34:50

We explore the eerie world of Japanese folklore through two of its most chilling concepts: Onryo; the vengeful spirits who return from the grave seeking retribution, and Tatari; the terrifying curses born from deep resentment or divine wrath. What happens when a soul cannot rest? How do ancient beliefs shape the way misfortune is understood in Japa…

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#158 - What's Japan's ADDICTIVE Gachapon Craze All About? 25:56

24d ago25:56

25:56

Welcome to the quirky world of Japan’s gachapon—capsule toy machines that are popping up everywhere from street corners to tourist hotspots. From adorable collectibles and anime figures to the downright bizarre, these little surprises have become a pop culture obsession. We dive into why gachapon are so addictive and why dropping a few spare coins …

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#157 - Can Anime & Manga Characters Step Into Our Reality? 28:56

1M ago28:56

28:56

What happens when anime, manga, and games hit the stage? We dive into the world of 2.5D theater—where fan-favorite characters come to life through musicals, plays, and mind-blowing stagecraft. It’s where fantasy meets reality, and the results are pure magic. Check out our social media below👇 https://linktr.ee/catwithbeard Music | 5 p.m‼ - 桜餅ルナ See …

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#156 - How to Beat the Humidity: Surviving Japan's Rainy Season 31:13

1M ago31:13

31:13

Dealing with Japan’s rainy season? You’re not the only one battling mold, dampness, and nonstop humidity. We share easy tips and tricks on how to deal with this infamous season —think dehumidifier hacks, moisture control, and staying sane when the rain won’t quit! Check out our social media below👇 https://linktr.ee/catwithbeard Music | 5 p.m‼ - 桜餅ル…

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#155 - Must-Visit Spots in Kyushu: Your Ultimate Guide 27:28

2M ago27:28

27:28

Discover the hidden gems of Kyushu, Japan, in this episode. From a toilet museum and cat islands to rich culture and popular mascots, we take you on an immersive journey through one of Japan’s most underrated regions and let Kyushu surprise you! Check out our social media below👇 https://linktr.ee/catwithbeard Music | 5 p.m‼ - 桜餅ルナ See omnystudio.co…

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#154 - Stronger Than Ever After Controversy! feat Berry 45:39

2M ago45:39

45:39

We're joined by the talented gaikai idol, Berry to dive deep into the controversy surrounding SORB3T. She opens up to the stuggles she faced during the backlash on cultural appropriation and the shocking revelations of her ordeal... ・Berry | Website | YouTube | Instagram | TikTok Check out our social media below👇 https://linktr.ee/catwithbeard Musi…

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#153 - All Aboard the Bloo-BERRY Idol Train Journey! feat Berry 33:57

2M ago33:57

33:57

We're diving into the world of Berry, a talented Japanese-American idol who first made waves as part of the idol group SORB3T. Berry launched her solo career, and she's been captivating fans ever since with her energetic music and vibrant personality. Berry is in the studio to talk about her journey and what makes her a standout in the idol scene! …

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#152 - Chugoku: The Amazing MIDDLE Kingdom of Japan 25:23

2M ago25:23

25:23

Chugoku (Chuugoku / Chūgoku), or 'middle country,' has long been thought of as a bridge between Japan and the rest of the world. While the region is best known for Hiroshima Prefecture, it's also fascinating to investigate the surrounding areas of Okayama, Shimane, Tottori, and Yamaguchi. In this guide, we'll discuss the best attractions, hidden ge…

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#151 - Being Multi-cultural J-Pop Idols feat RiA & GUMi (Crazy Fantasy) 34:25

2M ago34:25

34:25

RiA and GUMi of Crazy Fantasy have popped in for a chat about all things J-Pop Idols. Although Australian-born, they are well-rooted in the culture of Japanese idols and strive to provide their fan base with a unique and vibrant music experience. They gave us a unique perspective on their journey to idol stardom... ・Crazy Fantasy | Website | YouTub…

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#150 - What's a RPG Idol Group?!? feat RiA & GUMi (Crazy Fantasy) 27:20

3M ago27:20

27:20

Crazy Fantasy is a mischievous RPG concept idol group located in Tokyo, Japan, and consists of four members, two of which are Australian-born, RiA and GUMi! They've paid a visit to Cat with Beard HQ for a chat about their journey to J-Pop Idol culture. ・Crazy Fantasy | Website | YouTube | Instagram | Twitter/X | TikTok Check out our social media be…

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#149 - Discover Japan's CRAZIEST High-Tech Toilets! 29:05

3M ago29:05

29:05

We're going to take a journey through Japan's most high-tech toilets and the groundbreaking features that make them so special. From heated seats to high-tech bidet capabilities, we'll do it all and analyze the science behind these state-of-the-art toilets and why they're so popular in Japan. Check out our social media below👇 https://linktr.ee/catw…

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#148 - Championship Winning Foreign Wrestler in Japan? feat Akari 38:37

3M ago38:37

38:37

We got a championship winning pro-wrestler in the studio! Akari, hailing from Chile, talks to us about how she ended up in Japan, what made her become a wrestler in the Japanese circuit and why she is awesome! ・Akari | Instagram | Linktree | YouTube Check out our social media below👇 https://linktr.ee/catwithbeard Music | 5 p.m‼ - 桜餅ルナ See omnystudi…

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#147 - Kansai: Explore the Secrets of Kinki! 30:55

3M ago30:55

30:55

Is Kansai really Kinki? We check out the amazing Kansai area in Japan aka Kinki, known for its deep culture, tasty food, and special way of speaking. From Kyoto’s beautiful temples to Osaka’s lively food culture, not to mention Nara’s old ruins and Kobe's scenic harbor, we’re taking you on a trip through Japan's core. So just lean back and find out…

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#146 - What's Hiding Behind Everyday Japanese Words? 45:58

4M ago45:58

45:58

Dive into the intriguing realm of Japanese abbreviations and sayings. From common phrases like "sayonara" meaning goodbye and "konnichiwa" meaning hello to playful language tricks, we’ll explore the unique spot of Japanology. This will help us unveil the hidden tales behind daily Japanese vocabulary. Check out our social media below👇 https://linktr…

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#145 - The Future of Japanese Idols: What's Next in 2025? 45:42

4M ago45:42

45:42

It's time for an update on Japanese idols and how the industry is shaping since we last spoke about is many moons ago to what we are now seeing among it's fans. Whether you're a long-time fan of AKB48, Arashi, or other popular idol groups, or just curious about the Japanese music scene, join us as we take a closer look at the evolving landscape of …

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#144 - Unveiling Enmusubi: Japan's Ultimate Secret for Finding Love! 30:36

5M ago30:36

30:36

What is enmusubi? It means 'matchmaking' and we are going to explain what it's all about and how you can go about 'forming connections', the Japanese way... Check out our social media below👇 https://linktr.ee/catwithbeard Music | 5 p.m‼ - 桜餅ルナ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.By 文化放送PodcastQR

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#143 - Unlocking the Secrets to Mastering Jiro-kei Ramen! 28:25

5M ago28:25

28:25

It's time to look at the legend, the lore and the lingo of the infamous food cult that would make Man vs Food proud. We check out the very unique and somewhat controversial type of raman: Jiro-kei and uncover the techniques and etiquette to elevate your ramen game. So, grab your chopsticks and let's dive in! Check out our social media below👇 https:…

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#142 - Discover Japan's CHUBU Hidden Gems! 31:32

5M ago31:32

31:32

Inbetween Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka is the Chubu region of Japan and we're gonna tell you why you should plan your next Japan trip to this region! From ancient temples to breathtaking landscapes, join us on a journey to discover the hidden gems of this captivating region. Check out our social media below👇 https://linktr.ee/catwithbeard Music | 5 p.m‼ …

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#141 - Japanese Slang to the Masses? feat Risa Light 27:16

5M ago27:16

27:16

We got the chance to have a chat with the passionate enthusiast of Japanese Pop Culture and unique Japanese language tutor, Risa Light! We find out more about her latest project, "Risa's Nihongo", which offers Japanese slang to the world on social media. ・Risa Light | Website | Instagram | Linktree | TikTok Check out our social media below👇 https:/…

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#140 - Bringing Japaneses Pop Culture to the West feat Risa Light 30:06

5M ago30:06

30:06

We got the chance to have a chat with the passionate enthusiast of Japanese Pop Culture and unique Japanese language tutor, Risa Light! We find out how she ended up in Los Angeles and her humble beginnings of bringing Japanese culture to the West. ・Risa Light | Website | Instagram | Linktree | TikTok Check out our social media below👇 https://linktr…

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#139 - Dining Like a LOCAL in Japan's High-End Restaurants 33:49

6M ago33:49

33:49

We uncover the etiquette of dining like a local in Japan's finest restaurants-from specialist sushi bars to Michelin-starred restaurants. Get ready to unlock doors on how to dine at high-end restaurants in Japan and discover all about its rich gastronomic culture. Check out our social media below👇 https://linktr.ee/catwithbeard Music | 5 p.m‼ - 桜餅ル…

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#138 - 2024 Wrap-up! Let's have Cat with Beard Bounenkai! 35:46

6M ago35:46

35:46

It's the end of 2024 and it's time to bring the year to a close with an end-of-year party, Japan-style! We'll be looking at past episodes of 2024, and give you an insight of what a bounenkai is... Check out our social media below👇 https://linktr.ee/catwithbeard Music | 5 p.m‼ - 桜餅ルナ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.…

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#137 - Discover the Magic of Christmas Markets in Japan! 31:36

6M ago31:36

31:36

Immerse yourself in the magical world of Japan's Christmas markets! We'll look at the history of the first Christmas market to appear in Japan and then tell you the unique blend of holiday Japanese and Western traditions. We also have a list of markets you could visit when you are next in Japan during the holiday season. Join us on this merry journ…

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#136 - SURVIVING Bear Attacks Anywhere in Japan! 33:38

6M ago33:38

33:38

Are you ready when you encounter a bear in Japan? We take you right into the heart of Japan's forests and cities, where bear attacks are real. From understanding bear behavior to learning survival skills, we will be able to show you how to stay safe when confronted with a bear. So, buckle up and get ready to learn how to survive a bear attack in Ja…

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#135 - Let's Learn About Japanglish: What It Really Means 25:48

7M ago25:48

25:48

We're diving into the fascinating language of Japanglish - a unique blend of Japanese and English created by young anime otaku in the late 2000s. But what does it really mean, and how has it evolved over time? Join us as we explore the ins and outs of Japanglish, with plenty of examples to illustrate this intriguing linguistic phenomenon. So sit ba…

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#134 - Kanto's Hidden Gems Beyond Tokyo 26:57

7M ago26:57

26:57

Venture beyond the neon lights of Tokyo and discover the hidden gems of the Kanto region! We'll take you on a journey to explore the lesser-known attractions and experiences that lie just beyond the borders of Japan's capital city. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or just starting to plan your trip to Japan, get ready to uncover the secrets of Ka…

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#133 - Abandoned Japanese Villages Lies Empty and Forgotten! 31:44

7M ago31:44

31:44

Explore the eerie and unfortunate world of abandoned villages in Japan, where rural decay and urban legends come alive. Join us on a journey to discover the abandoned buildings, Japanese ghost towns, and forgotten places to uncover what it is like for rural Japan and the steps the government has taken to bring back life to deserted areas of Japan. …

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#132 - Understanding the TETSUDOU OTAKU: Train Enthusiasts in Japan 35:09

7M ago35:09

35:09

Explore the fascinating world of TETSUDOU OTAKU, Japan's train enthusiasts who have taken their passion to the next level. These enthusiasts have created a unique culture that revolves around the love of trains. Join us as we discover the joy of the railway culture that brings people together. Check out our social media below👇 https://linktr.ee/cat…

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#131 - Discovering Tohoku's Incredible Wonders in Japan! 31:21

8M ago31:21

31:21

Immerse yourself in the often overlooked and unbridled beauty of Tohoku, Japan, where cultural experiences await around every corner. From scenic views that will leave you breathless to multitudes of fruit that will tantalize your taste buds, this region is a treasure trove of Japanese culture. Join us as we delve into this enchanting region and ge…

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#130 - Discover Takarazuka Revue: Japan's All-Female Theatre Phenomenon! 36:42

8M ago36:42

36:42

In this fascinating exploration, we delve into the captivating realm of Takarazuka Revue, where female musicals reign supreme. Witness the passion and dedication of these female artists as they master the art of singing and acting, bringing joy and excitement to audiences everywhere. Join us on this captivating journey as we uncover the magic and t…

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#129 - Terrifying Japanese Manga That Will Haunt You 33:15

8M ago33:15

33:15

Get ready to sleep with the lights on! We'll be exploring the scariest Japanese manga that will haunt you and the authors that dreams them up. Whether you're a fan of horror or just looking for a thrilling read, join us as we delve into the darkest corners of Japanese manga and uncover the most terrifying tales that will give you nighmares... if yo…

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#4 JYOYA-NO-KANE＆HATSUMOUDE 1:00:45

8M ago1:00:45

1:00:45

Japanese buddhist temples start ringing their bells called "Jyoya-no-Kane" 108 times late on New Year's Eve and continue into the early hours of New Year's Day. The day of New Year's Eve is called "Jyoya" in Japanese, so the bell is called "Jyoya-no-Kane".In Buddhism, the number of earthly desires, "bonnou" is believed "108". It is said that each b…

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#128 - Explore HOKKAIDO'S Top Places and Hidden Gems in Japan! 28:08

8M ago28:08

28:08

Explore the uncharted territories of Hokkaido, Japan's northernmost island, and uncover its hidden gems! From the picturesque landscapes of Shiretoko National Park to the vibrant cityscape of Sapporo, get ready to discover the off-the-beaten-path destinations that will leave you spellbound. Check out our social media below👇 https://linktr.ee/catwit…

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#127 - A Japanese Company Made Up of Foreigners? feat Tobi from Unpacking Japan 32:53

9M ago32:53

32:53

We’re diving into a truly unique story—a Japanese company made up almost entirely of foreigners. In a country known for its rich traditions and structured business culture, Zen Group is breaking the mold. We are joined by Tobi from the Unpacking Japan podcast as we explore how these expats are not only adapting but thriving in one of the most chall…

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#126 - Who is Tobi from Unpacking Japan Podcast? 27:05

9M ago27:05

27:05

If you're a fan of Japanese culture, history or just fascinated by the beauty of Japan, then you've probably come across Tobi, the voice behind Unpacking Japan podcast. But who is the person behind the mic and how did he end up in Japan? We dive into Tobi's journey, his passion for Japan and how his past has made him the person he is now. ・Tobi | W…

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#125 - What NOT to Do at a Japanese Funeral – Essential Dos and Don'ts 34:07

9M ago34:07

34:07

Attending a Japanese funeral can be a deeply moving experience, but it’s important to know that these ceremonies come with unique customs and traditions. We’re going to talk about the biggest mistakes you should avoid to show proper respect and avoid any cultural faux pas. From what not to wear, to gestures you might think are harmless but could be…

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#124 - Why Everyone in Japan are Taking Their Plushies on Adventures? Inside the New Oshi-katsu Trend! 33:21

9M ago33:21

33:21

Have you ever noticed adorable plush toys popping up in the most unexpected places across Japan? This growing trend, called Nui-katsu, is where people bring their favorite stuffed animals along for all kinds of adventures. From scenic cafes to iconic landmarks, these plush companions are getting the spotlight in creative, fun photoshoots. But Nui-k…

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#123 - How NEONshe Found Freedom Through Music in Japan 38:09

9M ago38:09

38:09

From the scenic Isle of Wight in the UK to the vibrant streets of Japan, this British Pop Princess embarked on a bold journey to chase her musical dreams. But her path wasn't always smooth – she battled through the depths of mental health struggles to rise stronger, finding peace and freedom in the tranquil suburbs of Kyoto. Today, we sit down with…

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#122 - From Australia to Japan: Marmalade's Kaigai Idol Dream 35:10

10M ago35:10

35:10

Discover the journey of this kaigai idol from her first Australian-based idol group, Secret Chu to forming Melody Parade, why she decided to move from her home in Australia to pursue her career in Japan! ・Marmalade | Facebook | Instagram | YouTube | TikTok Check out our social media below👇 https://linktr.ee/catwithbeard Music | 5 p.m‼ - 桜餅ルナ See om…

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#121 - From Oz to Nippon: The Journey of Marmalade 32:06

10M ago32:06

32:06

Who is Marmalade? Discover the journey of this kaigai idol from her humble beginnings in cosplay, her self-made creations & outfits, and why she decided to move from her home in Australia to pursue her career in Japan! ・Marmalade | Facebook | Instagram | YouTube | TikTok Check out our social media below👇 https://linktr.ee/catwithbeard Music | 5 p.m…

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#120 - Don't Get Spirited Away! Avoid Getting Cursed in Japan 28:27

11M ago28:27

28:27

Summer is horror season in Japan, not the traditional October like in the West. If you visit Japan, there are signs and objects you must avoid, otherwise, you could get a curse or even worst, spirited away! Learn these tips before heading to Japan. Check out our social media below👇 https://linktr.ee/catwithbeard Music | 5 p.m‼ - 桜餅ルナ See omnystudio…

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#119 - Herbivore or Carnivore? Cat or Dog? Which One Are You? 31:30

11M ago31:30

31:30

Thinking of dating someone Japanese? Want to know what type of person a cabbage or an asparagus is? Are you confused with all these terms? Don't worry! We've got you cover! Plus, our hosts will be taking a test of their own to find out which characteristic type they are... Check out our social media below👇 https://linktr.ee/catwithbeard Music | 5 p…

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#118 - The F Word in Japan (Part 2) 33:42

11M ago33:42

33:42

What the does F mean? It means foreigner and we are going to talk about the bad foreigners that come to Japan as tourists, disregarding the rules and actively cause trouble for their own social media. We'll discuss the growing pains that the influx of visitors have done in Japan, as well as, what not to do when you come and visit the land of the ri…

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#117 - The F Word in Japan (Part 1) 36:23

11M ago36:23

36:23

What the does F mean? It means foreigner and we are going to talk about the bad foreigner influencers that come to Japan, disregarding the rules and actively cause trouble for social media views. We'll discuss the impact on the population of Japan but also the foreigners that live and work in the country, too! Check out our social media below👇 http…

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#116 - What Are Japanese Sports Festivals Like? 32:39

12M ago32:39

32:39

Japan's sports festivals at school are events held on sports fields and other suitable venues to promote children's basic physical and athletic fitness. We find out what they are like and how they effect Japanese society... Check out our social media below👇 https://linktr.ee/catwithbeard Music | 5 p.m‼ - 桜餅ルナ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy…

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#115 - FUNNIEST Translated Signs That Made Us Cry With Laughter 34:30

12M ago34:30

34:30

Explore the most hilarious English translated signage from Japan, showcasing mistranslations, funny phrases, and absurd descriptions... Check out our social media below👇 https://linktr.ee/catwithbeard Music | 5 p.m‼ - 桜餅ルナ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.By 文化放送PodcastQR

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#114 - Otakus Save Lives at Japanese Comic Conventions 31:00

12M ago31:00

31:00

The biggest comic market in Japan is nearly upon us and if you are planning on visiting this semiannual doujinshi convention in Tokyo, then you'll need to know what to do before and during the event. You'll also find out why anime/manga otakus saves lives during Comic Market... Check out our social media below👇 https://linktr.ee/catwithbeard Music …

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#113 - What You Should NOT Do When Cosplaying in Japan 41:31

1y ago41:31

41:31

While it appears that anything goes when cosplaying in the west, in Japan, it is a very different story. There are rules and etiquette that needs to be followed when you are dressing up as a character. Listen to this episode if you don't want to make mistakes and embarrass yourself while in Japan... Check out our social media below👇 https://linktr.…

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#112 - The Kawaii Story of RinRinDoll (Part 2) 23:46

1y ago23:46

23:46

Discover the untold story of RinRinDoll, a renowned model, fashion icon, and content creator. From her humble beginnings to her rise to fame in the subculture fashion industry, learn about the journey that shaped RinRinDoll into the influential figure she is today. ・RinRinDoll | Merch | Facebook | Twitter/X | Instagram | YouTube | TikTok | Twitch C…