This April, Japan's age of majority will be lowered from 20 to 18. Follow along as we listen to this news story in Japanese, study the word "otona" (adult), and learn about the coming-of-age ceremony.

Follow along as we listen to a news story in simplified Japanese about people in Japan donating 4 billion yen (as of March 7) to Ukraine through its embassy in Tokyo. Our resident Japanese teacher explains the word "kifu" (donation) and breaks down how to count large numbers such as "man" (10,000) and "oku" (100 million). We also spotlight growing private-sector efforts to provide support to Ukraine, as well as middle school students folding "orizuru" paper cranes, a symbol of peace.

Follow along as we listen to a news story in simplified Japanese about the reopening of a popular nature trail in the Owakudani area of Hakone, a mountainous resort town with spectacular views of Mt. Fuji. Owakudani is a volcanic valley known for its hot springs and close-up views of Mt. Hakone's billowing steam vents. The nature trail in question had been closed to tourists since 2015 due to increased volcanic activity.

Plastic pollution in the ocean has become a global environmental concern. Follow along as we listen to a news story in simplified Japanese about a new plastic developed by researchers at the University of Tokyo that is embedded with enzymes that cause it to naturally break down in water. We also consider the katakana loanword "purasuchikku" (plastic) and learn some related katakana words that are commonly used in everyday life.

Internet piracy has become a major global issue. Follow along as we listen to a news story in simplified Japanese about copyright-protection groups and government agencies from 13 nations coming together to create an international organization to fight manga and anime piracy on the internet. We study words like "kaizokuban" (pirated version) and "chosakuken" (copyright) and consider copyright infringement pitfalls in the digital age.

An American scientific agency used AI to study Japanese precipitation data and found that the rising frequency of abnormal rainfall in Japan is mainly due to human-induced climate change. Follow along as we listen to the news story in simplified Japanese. With the rainy season upon us, we learn some rain-related expressions, as well as terms to know to be prepared for heavy rains and potential natural disasters.

Follow along as we listen to a news story in simplified Japanese about a group of bystanders who used an automated external defibrillator (AED) to revive a young girl that suddenly collapsed during basketball practice. Japan has widespread deployment of AEDs, but public awareness and preparedness remains an issue. We study Japanese phrases and vocabulary for emergencies, and learn about how to use these lifesaving machines, and where they can be found.

Follow along as we listen to a news story in simplified Japanese about how Japan has taken the top spot in a ranking of global travel destinations published every 2 years by the World Economic Forum. In recent years, Japan has been working to increase multilingual signage and provide more resources for international travelers, especially in the run-up to the recent Tokyo Olympics. We learn some useful phrases for getting around town and share some sightseeing tips.

Follow along as we listen to a news story in simplified Japanese about a new service that allows consumers to pick up prescription drugs at convenience stores. In response to the COVID-19 outbreak, the government has eased drug regulations, allowing pharmacists to give usage instructions for medications online. We study Japanese words related to medicine, and learn about some of the many services available at Japanese convenience stores.

Japan is experiencing record-breaking heat, with temperatures exceeding 40 degrees Celsius in June for the first time in the country's recorded history. Follow along as we listen to a news story in simplified Japanese about how to protect yourself from heatstroke by using your air conditioner more effectively — thereby minimizing energy consumption. We learn Japanese words for summer appliances and ways to save energy while beating the summer heat.

Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, the number of international students in Japan has been on the decline. Join us as we listen to a story in simplified Japanese about how the education ministry hopes to restore the figure to the pre-pandemic level by 2027. We also ask an international student now in Japan about their experience so far and how it's widened their horizons.

Join us as we listen to a story in simplified Japanese about food vendors that have begun selling overgrown and misshapen vegetables that do not conform to market standards. Their efforts are part of a growing call to action against food loss and waste. We also learn about the distribution and sales of vegetables and fruits in Japan, and spotlight initiatives to reduce the amount of discarded food.

Join us as we listen to a story about a disaster drill where fire and police officials in Tokyo's Nakano Ward taught around 150 international residents about earthquake safety in plain Japanese. We hear from foreigners living in Japan about their earthquake fears and concerns, and learn where and how to access potentially lifesaving disaster preparedness and emergency information.

Join us as we listen to a story in simplified Japanese about centenarians in Japan. This year the number of people aged 100 and over exceeded 90,000 for the first time, marking a record high for the 52nd consecutive year. We also introduce various public and private services that support older adults. For example, since 2012, non-Japanese citizens aged 40 and over who have resided in Japan for more than three months are eligible to enroll in the country's long-term care insurance system.

Join us as we listen to a story in simplified Japanese about measures the health ministry has compiled to prevent fever clinics from being overwhelmed this winter amid growing concerns of a dual outbreak of COVID-19 and seasonal influenza. We also talk about visiting a doctor in Japan as an international resident or traveler, and go over useful Japanese terms for communicating your symptoms and concerns.

Join us as we listen to a story in simplified Japanese about new products being developed that can help people reduce their salt intake without compromising on flavor. The average Japanese diet contains a high amount of sodium, which is a concern as it can lead to high blood pressure and serious health issues. We talk about ways to cook using less salt, and highlight Japanese words and phrases related to cooking and flavor.

In Japan it is customary to send out New Year's postcards known as "nengajoo." Join us as we listen to a story in simplified Japanese about the greeting cards for the coming New Year, which are now available at post offices nationwide. This year Japan Post is issuing 1.64 billion cards—10% fewer than last year, as more and more people are opting to send their season's greetings over email. We also learn commonly used phrases for sending regards both electronically and via post.

Join us as we listen to a story in simplified Japanese about a new security system being introduced by a Japanese railway operator that uses AI and 3D camera imaging to detect human presence at crossings and prevent accidents. We also learn useful train-related terms for everyday life and about safety measures implemented at railway crossings.

Join us as we listen to a story in simplified Japanese about the Shikoku Pilgrimage, known as the "Henro" in Japanese. In November, international residents and others in Kagawa Prefecture had the opportunity to trek up to Yashima Temple, the 84th of the 88 sacred Buddhist temples along the journey. On the program we highlight terms related to the Henro, talk about a legendary Japanese cultural figure, learn about temple etiquette and consider the role of religion in Japanese society.

Last month (December 2022) record snowfall blanketed Niigata Prefecture, leaving hundreds of cars stranded. Join us as we listen to a story in simplified Japanese about driving safely in wintry conditions. We highlight everyday Japanese terms related to snow, and learn about how to prepare for winter weather hazards, providing helpful information for overseas travelers not accustomed to snow and international residents living in vulnerable urban areas.

Last December, Japan revised its civil aeronautics law to permit drone flights over residential areas beyond the visual light of sight. Join us as we listen to a news story about a new drone delivery service Japan Post aims to launch in fiscal year 2023. We study some drone-related vocabulary and provide an overview of how to send packages in Japan.

Join us as we listen to a news story about how Japan's government has decided to downgrade the legal status of COVID-19, which is currently classified as equivalent to Category 2, the second-most severe tier. On May 8, it will be lowered to Category 5, the same grouping as seasonal influenza. We talk about what will change with the reclassification, ask international residents for their thoughts, and consult experts for advice.

Hay fever season has arrived in Japan. The Tokyo Metropolitan Government forecasts that the amount of pollen in the air this spring will be 2.7 times more than last year. They say long hours of sunshine in early summer last year encouraged cedar and Japanese cypress trees to grow and produce more pollen. Join us as we listen to this news story and talk about ways to manage hay fever.

The topic of "kirakira neemu," a term that refers to unconventional given names in Japan, has sparked debate in recent years. In an effort to streamline the digitization of administrative procedures, the Justice Ministry has proposed revising the Family Register Law. We listen to a news story about the recommended changes, which include limiting readings to those widely recognized by the public. We also learn about Japanese naming trends and their historical context.

Join us as we listen to a news story about how all bicycle riders must make an effort to wear a helmet starting April. Currently, the law only requires that guardians try to ensure that children under age 13 wear a helmet. But with bicycle accidents on the rise across Japan, the Road Traffic Act has been revised. We also take an in-depth look at bicycle safety.

Complicated procedures and the language barrier can make it difficult for non-Japanese residents to open bank accounts. We listen to a news story about a new service that allows international residents to easily open accounts on their smartphones. It was launched by a Tokyo-based regional bank and a financial technology firm on March 1. In the second half of the program we learn about what items you need to sign up for a bank account.

Mount Fuji is a popular tourist spot known for its scenic beauty, but what many international visitors don't realize is that it's actually an active volcano. Follow along as we listen to a news story about a new evacuation plan unveiled by Shizuoka, Yamanashi and Kanagawa prefectures that aims to leave no person behind in the event of an eruption. We also learn about the volcano's explosive history and talk about how travelers should prepare for a visit.

On March 18, JR East and other railway operators in the Tokyo metropolitan area raised fares by 10 yen. They will use the funds to improve accessibility and safety at their station facilities. Join us as we listen to this news story in Japanese, learn about what kind of "barrier-free" modifications are being made, and give some tips for international visitors who are wheelchair users or have limited mobility on how to navigate stations.

We listen to a news story about how Japanese taxi companies will now be able to introduce dynamic pricing for certain offerings. Operators that apply with the transport ministry will be able to flexibly set fares for taxis hailed through approved smartphone apps when users specify their destination and get fares upfront. In the second half of the program, we go over how to catch a taxi in Japan and how services have been evolving since the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.

A Yokohama-based foundation that supports international residents in Japan has created a guide to help expectant parents understand childbirth and childcare in the country. It's available in five languages in addition to simple Japanese and can be viewed on the organization's website. Follow along as we listen to the news story, go over what the guide offers, and learn about Japan's "boshi-techoo" (Maternal and Child Health Handbook) system.

Join us as we listen to a news story about so-called linear rainbands, which are areas of intense rainfall caused by rows of dense rain clouds. In May, the Japan Meteorological Agency announced that it will begin issuing alerts when it predicts the occurrence of a linear rainband within 30 minutes. Previously, it only did so when one was confirmed. We look at the damage that this weather phenomenon can cause and consider how early forecasts can help us prepare for torrential rains.

Follow along as we listen to a news story about a farmer in the town of Iinan in Shimane Prefecture who grows rice without the use of chemicals, thanks to the help of aigamo ducklings that eat weeds and pesky insects. In the second half of the program, we consider rice as a staple food for Japanese people. We learn about different varieties and go over the basics of how to cook rice.

Follow along as we listen to a story about invasive alien species. Starting June 1, Japan has banned the import and sale of red swamp crayfish and pond slider turtles, two non-native species that have been wreaking havoc on local ecosystems. Releasing them into the wild is also prohibited. Violators may face fines or imprisonment. In the second half of the program, we take a closer look at what kind of damage the animals are causing and what authorities are doing to deal with the problem.

The government has expanded eligibility for the Specified Skilled Worker No. 2 status of residence from 2 industries to 11. The status allows foreign nationals to work virtually indefinitely in Japan. In the second half of the program, we talk about why the Specified Skilled Worker status was created, learn about what industries are covered, and interview a worker who hopes to upgrade their status now that eligibility has expanded.

Starting next July, the government will issue redesigned banknotes in three denominations: 10,000 yen, 5,000 yen and 1,000 yen. The bills will incorporate updated security features, including special holograms. Join us as we listen to this news story in Japanese and study passive constructions. In the second half of the program, we spotlight the historical figures who will be featured on the new bills and learn about anti-counterfeiting technology.

In August, a shrine in Okayama Prefecture held an event showcasing the quenching process of a Japanese sword, which produced a "hamon" pattern along the edge of the blade. The item will be dedicated to the shrine's deity in December. Follow along as we listen to the story and learn expressions related to "katana" (sword). In the second half we spotlight Japanese kitchen knives, which adapt traditional sword-making techniques. We also hear from international visitors interested in Japanese knives.

"Yami-baito" are shady part-time jobs that lure applicants in with the promise of high pay and coerce them into being complicit in crimes such as fraud and robbery. The National Police Agency recently published a report on this disturbing trend after listening to the accounts of young perpetrators. In the second half of the program, we go over the tactics that crime groups use to manipulate workers and look at how international residents are being targeted.

September 1 is Disaster Prevention Day in Japan, and to mark the occasion a cooking site has compiled recipes designed for sheltering in place during an emergency, when access to utilities such as water, electricity and gas may be limited. We listen to the story in Japanese and learn some key expressions. In the second half of the program, we learn some tips and techniques for off-grid cooking and introduce a recipe that can be prepared with a portable gas stove.

In August, Nagaragawa Railway in Gifu Prefecture started running a theme train decorated with plastic food models made locally in Gujo City. It's currently scheduled to run until August 2024. Japanese fake foods have a global reputation for their extraordinary craftsmanship. Join us as we listen to the story in Japanese. Later in the program we look at the history of the craft and how the molding methods are being adapted for other fields such as medicine.

More companies are launching digital business card services, which allow users to easily exchange professional information with their smartphones instead of with conventional paper cards. The demand for such services is expected to increase as it is becoming more common in Japan to switch careers and work side jobs. In the second half of the program, we look at how digital business cards may change the way companies and individuals promote themselves and their brands.

Anime Tokyo Station, a new facility dedicated to showcasing Japanese animation to a global audience, opened in the Ikebukuro district of Tokyo on October 31. It boasts an archive of around 50,000 items, including scripts, storyboards and animation cels from popular series. In the second half of the program, we look at how Ikebukuro became an anime and manga destination on the same level as the famous Akihabara district.

Following the recent Noto Peninsula earthquake, researchers conducted a survey of the peninsula's coastline. In hard-hit Wajima City, they found that a breakwater had been pushed up by about 4 meters. The Noto Peninsula is believed to have been formed by ground upheavals caused by earthquakes. But an expert points out that upheavals on the scale of 4 meters only occur once every several thousand years.

Japan plans to widen access to day cares to all children, regardless of whether their parents or guardians work or not. Starting FY 2024, the government will conduct a trial in around 150 municipalities across the country. The new system will allow children from 6 months of age up through 2 years old to be placed in day care for up to 10 hours a month. Later on in the program, we talk about applying to day care and introduce some unfamiliar terms you may come across in a child care context.

Local fire corps played an active role in rescues and evacuations during the Noto Peninsula earthquake this past January, and their efforts were a reminder of the important role they play in Japanese society. But there is currently a shortage of members nationwide. Follow along as we listen to the story, spotlight the city of Yokohama's efforts to welcome international residents into their fire corps, and learn the difference between "tetsudau" (to help out) and "tasukeru" (to rescue).

More and more Japanese railway companies are introducing an AI-powered search system that makes it easier for customers to recover items that they lost or left behind on trains or at stations. Users enter details into a messaging app, which the system cross-checks with information in a lost-and-found database. Follow along as we review the story, learn helpful phrases, and go through practice scenarios for inquiring about lost items.

In late August, torrential rainfall in central Tokyo caused rainwater to gush down entrances at Ichigaya subway station and flood the interior. Near Shinjuku Station, water erupted from a manhole and reached higher than human height. We review the news story in Japanese and learn expressions related to the verb "tamaru" (to accumulate) as well as terms you want to know to be prepared for inclement weather and natural disasters.

An abacus and mental arithmetic competition was held in Okayama Prefecture in late August. In the "Flash Anzan" event, 15 sets of three-digit numbers were flashed consecutively on a screen, and competitors added the numbers in their head. The numbers were gradually sped up, and in the end 15 numbers were displayed in 2.2 seconds. We review the news story in Japanese and learn expressions related to math such as "tasu" (to add) as well as other useful vocab words for everyday life.