Today’s Question
On this episode of Ichimon Japan we ask: What is Panty Town?
Topics Discussed
- The town of Shimogigaoka (下木ヶ丘) and its plan to use panty vending machines for publicity
- The history of the town of Shimogigaoka
- What fundoshi are
- How rural towns across Japan are trying to both boost tourism and attract new residents through various headline-grabbing PR stunts
- Whether “Panty Town” is real
- And more!
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Sources, Links, Videos, Etc.
To check out the article about the guy that takes off his fundoshi in all sorts of funny and creative ways, use the link below.
You can check out the April Fools’ Day Japankyo articles below.
- Sumo Wrestlers Must Compete Nude Declares Japan Sumo Association
- AKB48 Creator Announces All Baby Reiwa-Themed Pop Idol Group
Japanese Vocabulary List
Most episodes feature at least one or two interesting Japanese words or phrases. Here’s some of the ones that came up on this episode. All information is from Jim Breen’s WWWJDIC.
- Fundoshi
- ふんどし (n) (1) fundoshi; loincloth; traditional Japanese men’s undergarment made from a length of cotton; (2) kimono underskirt; (3) (sumo) wrestler’s ornamental apron
- Shitagi
- 下着 【したぎ】 (n) underwear
We Want Your Questions
Is there something about Japan that confuses you? Is there something about Japanese culture that you would like to learn more about? Is there something in Japanese history that you would like us to explain? We’re always looking for new questions about Japan to answer, so if you have one, please send it to ichimon@japankyo.com.
Special Thanks
Opening/Closing Theme: Produced by Apol (YouTube, Twitter, Facebook, Fiverr)
Ichimon Japan cover art: Produced by Erik R.
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