A Podcast for Japanese Learners

Apr 20, 2026

Hi, this is Ako.

Did you know that I host a podcast for Japanese learners, all in Japanese?

I actually started it during the pandemic, when I was working as a freelancer. It began as one of the ways I could stay active and connected online.

To be honest, I didn’t really have a habit of listening to podcasts myself at the time. So when people around me suggested that I start one for Japanese learners, it didn’t immediately feel like the right fit. But the more I looked into it, the more I realized how powerful it could be for language learning. And eventually, I decided to give it a try.

There are already many podcasts for Japanese learners, so I wanted to create something that matches my strengths. In my podcast, everything is in Japanese, and I adjust the level depending on the episode.

🚲 Beginner: for learners around JLPT N4
🚃 Intermediate: for learners around JLPT N3
🚀 Advanced: natural speed, more real-life Japanese

For the advanced level in particular, I often get asked what makes it different from native podcasts. What I try to focus on is clarity. Even at a natural speed, I make sure:

grammar and vocabulary are accurate
each sentence is clearly structured
difficult slang or current terms are explained when needed

So if you’ve ever felt that native podcasts are a bit too difficult, I hope this can be a good bridge for you.

Most of the topics come from my daily life, but I’d like to gradually expand and talk about a wider range of themes.

Right now, more than 12,000 people follow the podcast on Spotify alone.
I also receive feedback from friends, colleagues, and teachers who use it in their lessons, which I truly appreciate. Some teachers even use it in their classes as listening practice, which I’m really happy about.

Previously, I shared the scripts on Notion, but now each episode is published as a blog post on Substack. If there’s anything you couldn’t quite catch while listening, feel free to check the script as well: https://www.nihongopicnic.com/blog

You can listen on the platform you like best: