Why does everyone in Japan suddenly have the exact same keychain? And why do we all look like aliens in our latest Purikura photos? This week on Spill the Matcha, Misato and Cherine are taking a deep dive into the fast-paced, glittery, and sometimes bizarre world of Japanese fads and trends.

From the "Seal Book" (sticker book) obsession of the 2000s to the high-tech photo booths of today, the girls explore why Japan is so good at creating "booms" that capture the nation's heart. Misato gets nostalgic about her childhood sticker trades, while Cherine reacts to the sheer intensity of Japan’s seasonal trends.

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⁠Ninja Wifi (use Code MATCHA10 for 10% OFF)

Imagine going from the neon-soaked, ear-splitting chaos of a Japanese Game Center to... a dark, dingy, and surprisingly depressing police station. This week on Spill the Matcha, Cherine tells the full story of the night she lost her wallet and her subsequent "adventure" with the law.

Forget the high-tech Japan you see in movies; Cherine takes us inside the Umeda Police Station, which felt more like a 70s detective drama set than a modern office. Between the flickering fluorescent lights and the mountains of paperwork, she and Misato discuss the reality of the Japanese police system and the grueling process of getting your stuff back.

It’s a story of panic, paperwork, and the unexpected dinginess of the Osaka underground. Grab your Matcha and get ready for a very real look at life in Japan.

Sponsors:

Ninja Wifi (use Code MATCHA10 for 10% OFF)

Japan is known for being one of the safest countries in the world, but there is one issue that many women face every single day: Chikan (痴漢), or train groping. This week on Spill the Matcha, Misato and Cherine have a serious and necessary conversation about the reality of navigating Japan's crowded public transport.

From the "Women Only" carriages to the viral safety apps, the girls discuss the cultural and social factors that make this issue so persistent and what is being done to stop it.

This episode aims to break the silence on a difficult topic while providing support and information for our listeners. We’re spilling the matcha on the parts of Japanese life that aren't always easy to talk about, but are vital to understand.

Stay Safe on Your Commute: If you or someone you know has been affected by chikan, please know there is support. Download the Digi Police app for a silent way to call for help on crowded trains. For professional support, call the nationwide sexual crime hotline at #8103 or the Yorisoi Hotline for English support at 0120-279-338. Your safety matters!