This is the WORST Area in Japan | Trash Taste #231
Trash Taste Podcast
Deep Dive
Why was there a Nanachi statue in a remote fish market in Shikoku?
A life-sized statue of Nanachi from "Made in Abyss" was found in a fish market in a remote area of Shikoku, a 50-minute drive outside of Kochi. The statue's presence is unexplained, as the author of "Made in Abyss" is not from the area, nor is the anime set there. There were no other "Made in Abyss" items in the market.
What are some of the unique selling points of different prefectures in Japan?
Various prefectures in Japan are known for specific products or attractions, like Sendai for gyutan (beef tongue) and zunda mochi, and Nagano for apples. However, many areas also claim fame for common Japanese staples like rice and sake.
What is the Brighton i360?
The Brighton i360 is a tall, slender observation tower in Brighton, England. It features a glass viewing pod that ascends and descends a vertical shaft, offering panoramic views of the city and coastline. However, it's considered an eyesore by some locals.
Why do many Japanese cities have towers, and which are considered the least appealing?
Many Japanese cities built towers during the economic boom in the 1980s. Some, like the Sapporo TV Tower, are well-regarded, while others like the Nagoya TV Tower and the Kaikyo Yume Tower in Shimonoseki are considered less attractive.
What positive changes have occurred in Ozu, Ehime, since Connor's first visit?
Since Connor's initial visit, Ozu has seen a noticeable increase in tourism. The town has invested in revitalization efforts, renovating abandoned buildings into hotels and attracting more businesses. This has led to a more lively atmosphere and a better experience for visitors.
Why does Connor recommend cycling the Shimanami Kaido from Imabari to Onomichi?
Connor suggests starting the Shimanami Kaido cycling route in Imabari and ending in Onomichi because it allows cyclists to tackle the more challenging sections first. Additionally, Onomichi provides convenient access to other destinations like Hiroshima and Okayama.
What makes the current Shimanami Kaido cycling experience better than before?
The Shimanami Kaido cycling experience has improved due to better bikes, including e-bikes, and a greater number of cafes and attractions along the route, making it a more enjoyable and convenient experience for cyclists.
What activities did Connor and his friends do during their RV trip in Nagano?
During their RV trip in Nagano, Connor and his friends engaged in various activities, including paragliding, quad biking, ATV riding, watching an alpaca race, whitewater rafting, and visiting a llama farm.
Why did Connor find his recent visit to Thorpe Park disappointing?
Connor's recent visit to Thorpe Park, a theme park in England, didn't live up to his childhood memories. He found some rides, like Nemesis Inferno, less thrilling than he remembered, and he now dislikes roller coaster loops. He prefers rides with one big drop.
Why does Garnt dislike roller coasters more than skiing, despite skiing being more dangerous?
Garnt dislikes roller coasters because he lacks control over the experience, unlike skiing where he has some agency. This lack of control contributes to his fear, despite acknowledging that skiing presents a greater risk of injury.
Why does Connor find theme park food overpriced and mediocre?
Connor believes that theme park food is often overpriced and of average quality, diminishing the enjoyment of taking a break from rides and queues.
Why does Connor consider Nagoya a "mid" city?
Connor finds Nagoya to be an average Japanese city lacking a distinct identity compared to Tokyo or Osaka. He considers it primarily a business hub with limited attractions beyond some decent food and Legoland.
What new feature does the Toyota Prius have that Connor enjoyed?
Connor appreciated the lane-keeping assist and adaptive cruise control features in the new Toyota Prius, allowing for a more relaxed driving experience, particularly on highways.
What kind of "dad knowledge" do Connor, Joey, and Garnt believe their generation possesses?
They believe their generation's "dad knowledge" lies in computer skills and software proficiency, areas where their parents often struggle and younger generations haven't needed to develop deep expertise due to user-friendly interfaces.
Why does Connor dislike shopping at Don Quixote?
Connor finds Don Quixote overwhelming and filled with items he doesn't need. He often prefers to find items online rather than carrying them home from the store.
What does Joey collect?
Joey enjoys collecting things, including Pokémon cards. He appreciates the ongoing nature of collecting and finds it to be a fun hobby, though he acknowledges the potential expense and exercises restraint in his spending.
Who did Connor unexpectedly meet in Golden Gai?
Connor met Bunmei Tobayama, a former actor and voice actor known for roles like Netero in the 1990s "Hunter x Hunter" anime and the judge in the "Phoenix Wright" games. Tobayama now owns a bar in Golden Gai.
Why does Connor feel that Golden Gai is becoming more like a theme park?
Connor observes that Golden Gai is shifting from a local hangout to a tourist destination, with establishments becoming increasingly commercialized and losing their authentic feel due to social media exposure.