Unfortunately, Rikubetsu's train station isn't only closed for the winter months, but the entire line that passes through stopped service in 2006, due to declining population in the region. It was called the Furusato Ginga Line, and was the only form of public transportation for over 100 kilometers. Rikubetsu Station and the trains stored there are a memorial of the line, once the main way in and out of the cold town.
Shouldn't more profitable lines subsidize these smaller town unprofitable lines since they are the only possible mass transit available? Closing down tracks will only accelerate the depopulation of these small towns. Maybe some people think that's a good thing. I don't.
@@gnarlin4964The voters on those more profitable lines would probably have something to say about where their financial inputs go (not unreasonably) and the politicians they elect probably aren’t too concerned about rural townships that won’t get them reelected.
Hey! From an old lady who's almost sixty....I lived in Japan in the nineties. I love your channel- brings back so many memories. These Journey Across Japan are the bomb! You are a wonderful film maker, narrator and content creator. You and your friends make it so much fun!
This episode is great, when Natsuki started his rap I had to stop eating because I was afraid I might choke on my food and die from laughter, Joey's rap is just too good and Pete as always the best guy.
Obviously, you haven't done a winter in Fussa with your new girlfriend and no such thing as central heating. Left California at 115°F to 30°F. The things we do for love.
Thanks man! These videos are a solid team effort and a pleasure to produce. Really proud of this series so far and the amazing places we've been able to share with everyone 🍿
The affability of Chris Broad, the earnest awkwardness of Pete, the suffering of Natsuki, Joey being Joey, and Ian and Paul keeping you all alive in the background. All the makings of a good video are present. Keep them coming, lol. We love all of you!
@@everythingreview767 I knew Joey from his channel The Anime Man but it was a long time ago so I doubt it's still called this or that he still produces the same content. I hardly watched him back then but now he's grown a lot and seems more adult ☺️
I’m so glad you took the time to teach people about indigenous Ainu culture as both an Indigenous and Japanese person myself it means so much for people know we are still here!
Who are indigenous people anyway are they native Japanese who got colonized by chinese long time ago and breeded with them and made the Japanese race we know today? Japanese are just the mixed race and they think they are pure and don't want foreigners to mate with them pretty weird people
Can we just take a moment to appreciate the many skills Chris has? Cinematic filming, check. TV-level editing, got it. Arranging elaborate tours, no problem. Beat boxing, sure. Making professional-sounding music, nailed it. Almost makes up for the fact that he can't cook (but he does have exquisite restaurant taste). Keep up the amazing work, Chris! Warm hugs from the Netherlands.
this was a good episode because we rarely get to hear Natsuki speak Japanese, and i think it would be cool to have him do it more. in fact it would be cool to hear everone speak to natsuki in japanese to just to see them all have a regular conversation.
Natsuki could also do narration in Japanese if Chris ever needed that, I think. He has a really calm and friendly voice when he's just talking normally
I love these bits were Natsuki talks in Japanese about something interesting he has a good voice and if they talk in a group that would be nice to see!
I love how you made an epic video when nothing went as planned. Fishing didn't happen, you improvised. The coldest town wasn't the coldest, you improvised and talked with locals. Really nice work!!
Peter is surprisingly a really good host MC, and the level of quality that Joey and Natsuki brought was leagues ahead from 3 years ago. You all need to splice the verses together and hammer out a chorus, because that is on par with a legit hip hop track.
It's fascinating to see the influence of the Ainu people, who were the traditional natives of Hokkaido, before Japan was established. It's important to promote and appreciate such unique places and the arts and crafts that were part of the indigenous culture. If you're in Hokkaido, highly recommend visiting the Ainu village at Lake Akan. It's a picturesque town with symbolic owls and a connection to nature.
It's on my list! I love Ainu culture and art. Interesting that the traditional family unit is more similar to modern times where married couples would build a new house to move into, instead of living with parents/grandparents.
@@AbroadinJapan I think it just takes a little. Not everyone wants to look such good videos in between. You have to take yourself a little time, to be able to appreciate the content fully....
Ainu culture is kind of underrepresented. I only discovered their existence through Golden Kamuy, the manga Joey brought up. That and this series really put the determination in me to make an extensive trip through Hokkaido in the future. It's such a fascinating place!
Honestly? you guys need to go international with this production, it's already over and above the standard required for TV, you have personalities galore, and each and every episode of JAJ leaves the viewer looking forward to the next episode. For me, it's like what I said in a previous episode, When I hear the JAJ theme playing, I am instantly happy and ready to watch another episode, it's fantastic!
Same man i'm also happy everytime i see JAJ and love the places they visit with telling the history or the situation it is in and such good quality couldn't agree more!❤
NOTIFICATION SQUAD: Who do YOU think won the rap battle? Credit where it's due to Natsuki, he did it in English! We didn't help him write it either (as you can probably tell). The final episode of our epic 1,000km journey across Hokkaido is out later this week, for now enjoy the episode and snap up some Dr Jelly merch on the Abroad in Japan store! ⭐ abroad-in-japan.creator-spring.com/ ⛩ Itinerary for WHERE we went: www.funliday.com/abroadinjapan/journals/89969
My Japanese teacher some years ago was part Ainu, his grandma was Ainu - and he had blue eyes from her. He told us about how growing up just outside of Tokyo he was treated differently and ‘other’ just because of his eyes from his grandma, and how he felt when he was a child and teenager when he wished his eyes were brown as well… As an adult be moved to the U.K. and became a Japanese teacher, when I met him he was much older (basically semi retired) and proud of his heritage. He made sure to teach us not only Japanese language and culture, but also he taught us Ainu culture. I hope that things are better for the Ainu now as Japan has become a little more international, because his stories of how his grandma was treated were not good.
the ainu were brutally displaced by the japanese government and people, its not as "friendly" as this video describes. The ainu didnt choose to live in uninhabitable regions because there were too many people coming, they were forcefully displaced.
I love Pete, his positivity is infectious, such a great hypeman for the crazy competitions Natsuki and Joey get into. I loved Natsuki begging Peter for help. Combined with Chris's dry humor, I feel like he was the missing ingredient in your trio...a quartet now. Need a 5th and you'd have a 5-man band, any candidates coming to mind? ;)
Is there anything that Pete has not done? Such a cool dude, would like to watch a documentary on his life adventures. Thank you for this awesome episode. Must have been soo...cool...to have been on this trip.
at first when he began appearing in chris videos . i was like . come on . who is this ? why is he here ? but now he has become my fave charectar in the abroad in japan series !
You guys really went to a town known for it's cold temperatures on a day it was relatively warm, couldn't find any particularly interesting tourist sights, and still managed to make every second of the video entertaining! It's honestly incredibly impressive, just goes to show how talented Chris is and how him and the boys have such great chemistry together!
Abroad in Japan is the most consistently entertaining channel I've ever discovered on TH-cam, what's more is that this dude just never fell off.. he's more popular and successful than ever before. His videos always seem to do well etc.
This series just keeps getting better and better! Lake Akan looks amazing. The rap battle was brilliant, Doctor Jelly for the win. Thank you to Chris and the team for sharing this, looking forward to the next one
Interesting that you point out that the owl statues at the Akan Kotan have a stare to them like they're watching everything - Cikap-kamuy, also known as Kotan-kor-kamuy is the Ainu deity who watches over villages and is depicted as an owl. The name kotan-kor-kamuy means "Village guarding kamuy (kami)"!
That was amazing! Pete and Natsuki together is just an incredibly entertaining combo! But, my god, that rap battle! I was watching that stream!! Natsuki is a trooper but you just can’t beat Dr Jelly’s flow. 😂 RIP Pete’s hair too! Thanks for taking Pete this time, he’s such a good soul. We must protect him at all costs. All of you guys just put a big goofy smile on my face. Looking forward to the next one!! 🙌
We need a Pete: the movie. Doesn't really surprise me he was a taxidermist, like - what DIDN'T he do?! I always look forward to the Journey Across Japan series, the production quality is amazing! An absolute banger!
WAIT WHAT?! Pete was a taxidermist? That man has led a very unique life. Honestly thought we'd covered all of Pete's odd stories, but he casually busts out another one.
Must be one of the reasons why his vibe isn't one I'm particularly fond of. I have always hated taxidermy. Definitely prefer the videos he isn't in. I feel bad saying that, but that's just my honest opinion.
@Christine C. Taxidermy isn't necessarily something that promotes animal abuse. Actually alot of people do it out of respect for the animal or as a way to preserve beloved pets.
It feels like Chris was made to create this kind of content. The professional shots, the gorgeous B-roll, the occasional bits of history (but never too long) and the fantastic mix of genuine storytelling vs just goofy, normal jokes. The whole Ainu bit at the start is a great example of why this channel is just great. We get a concise rundown of the Ainu history and who they are, followed by Pete explaining how important it is to acknowledge something like that and then Chris barges in with a deliciously bad joke on purpose to break up this serious topic and get the viewers smoothly back into the video. I mean, that's just really well done. Could've gone wrong in so many ways. Chris just really knows his shit and it's a delight to see.
Hands down, I'm relieved it wasn't any colder when Natsuki had to dive into the snow. I can seriously imagine he might've suffered physical damage if it had been lower... 😰
We've been watching Abroad In Japan for several years now and my wife and I always enjoy a good Journey Across Japan Series! Thank you Chris, Natsuki, Joey, and Pete and of course the crew behind the scenes as well!
Love what this channel has become over the years. The production, information, friendships, and silliness. Hope that you and your team continue to put out amazing content and cherish all the memories!
Having watched Chris for years and years seeing the slow increase in production quality has been so awesome. One of the best overall channels on TH-cam imo
I mean it's said to death but, it's something worth saying, damn it! Fantastic content all around. This channel is something that I could honestly, without a doubt, say is totally unique to TH-cam. The style, humor, production (not only in expenses, but talent!) and presentation is something I could only identify coming from Abroad in Japan.
Coldest place in Japan, and you guys just get -2 degrees that day 😅 Well I guess you must also be really happy that the equipment didn‘t froze all the time 😂 There must still be a lot places in Hokkaido to explore, which gaves me the feeling that, everytime I‘m watching your videos, I just wanna jump in, and explore with you guys. What an awesome group of friends, you are ! Continue the great and awesome work guys !! We want more of this !! 🙇🏻🙇🏻🙇🏻
A landlocked town being the coldest in Japan makes more sense than you'd think. Any town near a large body of water will have a milder temperature range, as the water helps mediate the temperatures throughout the year. That doesn't mean they don't have wicked hot or cold days, just not as often.
Yup. Same thing with Alaska. Interior (Fairbanks regularly hits -40 which is even in F and C) is more consistently cold than even Barrow in the north of the state.
I second Joey's Golden Kamuy recommendation. If you're too lazy to read the manga, the anime adaptation is just as good! You learn a lot about the Ainu and also get your fair share of laughs and absurd comedy.
Thank you Chris, and the rest of the team!! I had been following you through your journey, by watching Peter's lives, and I am really happy to finally see the "final product". Amazing edit, and so much fun watching it! Thank you!
this is a great episode, especially the rap battle part! also, i highly agree with pete on what he said about promoting ainu locations and ainu culture. also, im hype on watching the last episode of Journey Across Japan: Frozen Frontiers!
I have experienced -40 degrees in northern Sweden, and although it isn't as spectacularly cold as some places on earth can be, it was actually cold enough I couldn't breath without having my face covered. inhaling the cold air caused coughing every single time. :)
@@tangelite9968 haha, well it wasn't so bad, but I was a bit surprised since I had been out in -30 degrees before and not experiencing the same thing. I was only 14 at the time. 26 years ago. I was on a skiing trip with friends and my mom told me that I should call her once I reached the hotel. Back then we didn't have cell phones, and I didn't know I could just ask the hotel to make a call, so scurried out in the snow to a phone booth in -40 (imagine that) at first it was fine, but as my nose was starting to get blocked I had to breath through my mouth, and that's when I realized that the air didn't heat up enough when it reached my lungs. I had to cover my face (which I probably should've done before I left the hotel even xD)
My home state of Wisconsin (US) has a climate very similar to Hokkaido but with less snow. In winter we have things like the "polar bear plunge," where a hole is cut in a frozen lake and people jump in. The cold shock often causes their limbs to seize up, so it's essential to have volunteers to fish people out.
Minnesota too! Frozen lakes are integral to the upper Midwest experience lol my college in northern Minnesota let the students park for free on the lake during the winter so we could save some money
I always have a big stupid grin on my face watching Journey across Japan. Joey/Natsuki/Pete are such a great combination and your production skills are insane Chris!
The quality of content you put forward on this channel is fantastic. Not just the subject and flow of the videos, but the cinematography as well. You should be very proud
This was as good as or even better than the previous journey across japan vids chris! cant believe the fifth series is almost over.Hope to see more of pete,he was a really great addition to the series and also the 1000 year old demon ryotaro
I remember seeing these scenes months ago on Pete’s Twitch channel! It’s crazy the amount of preparation needed to make this series. Nice work, Chris and JAJ crew!!!
Another great adventure! The chicken soy sauce ramen looks amazing! DJ Rapsuki's expression was priceless! @12:12. I must say Natsuki did great writing the rap verses not in his native language. I would have loved to hear the rap challenge performed in the contestant's non-native language. Joey had great verses too, congratulations to give him credit. That snow drop - even I felt it. Brrr! Natsuki deserved the warm comfortable Onsen afterwards.
It probably would've been most fair to do it in Japanese which they're both actually fluent in, but I get why they'd choose English considering it's an english language channel even though it put Natsuki at a massive disadvantage
The explanation in this video is not quite right. Ainu has been recognized as an indigenous people for a long time. Back in 1899, Japanese Government made a law to protect them as an indigenous people. Then in 1997, they made a new law specifically to protect their own culture. In 2019, the newest law was established to encourage local governments to use more budget in various ways to support Ainu communities. Majority of Ainu have been blending with Japanese people and their own culture and language are almost disappearing. In 2007, United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples was adopted and it encouraged the establishment of this new law.
In Newfoundland we don't use fishing lines we use jig lines, which is essentially a fishing line and hook wrapped around a stick... Also since I know there's snowmobiles in Japan I'm 100% going now during the winter. Also the ice gets so think here in Alberta Canada we drive our trucks across the ice... I pull up on the lake in a 1ton truck and ice fish. Usually spend the night there too
I do love how Natsuki(sp?) reverts to the traditionally reserved communication style when speaking to the ramen shop owner but is so much more... energetic with his non- Japanese-born friends. It's fun!❤🎉
As someone from Wisconsin, I was absolutely overjoyed that this little town lives on "beer and deer", and of course, nothing better than soup or ramen to warm you up on a cold day. And the landscape is so similar too! We do have Rikubetsu beat though. In 1888 we hit -38F which is -37.7C, and if we're counting wind chill just 5 years ago we hit -45C/-50F. It's freezing, but at least we don't have roaches.
really enjoying this series. You're exploring the area the anime Golden Kamuy is set in and I'm excited to see the prison! I would be interested in seeing more episodes from you about the Ainu people!
Another great episode! I didn't see that rap battle coming but it's awesome! Another song and Dr Jelly makes an appearance as well! The Bambi meat comment made me laugh! I also enjoyed the many interesting info about the town you guys are in (the owls are cute). I'm excited but also kind of sad that this season would be over soon.
The highlight of my week, another Abroad in Japan video!They really help me take my mind off things when it's not going too well, and I often rewatch them so thank you for posting! (also I heard the book is done, congrats! Can't wait to order it!)
We had -40 C here for a few days last winter, it's definitely nasty when there is wind also! It killed my car battery and your skin would freeze in minutes! Now it's a plus 33.5 C day and sun, Canada extremes! 😁
I like the shot at 19:19 Hidden wonder of Rikubetsu! But seriously great vid, I love Journey Across Japan for how far you guys go toward showing the beauty of the countryside and the local history. Here's to many more.
Unfortunately, Rikubetsu's train station isn't only closed for the winter months, but the entire line that passes through stopped service in 2006, due to declining population in the region. It was called the Furusato Ginga Line, and was the only form of public transportation for over 100 kilometers. Rikubetsu Station and the trains stored there are a memorial of the line, once the main way in and out of the cold town.
Informative, thank you.
Quite informative, as expected with someone with that username. Thanks!
this guy trains..
Shouldn't more profitable lines subsidize these smaller town unprofitable lines since they are the only possible mass transit available? Closing down tracks will only accelerate the depopulation of these small towns. Maybe some people think that's a good thing. I don't.
@@gnarlin4964The voters on those more profitable lines would probably have something to say about where their financial inputs go (not unreasonably) and the politicians they elect probably aren’t too concerned about rural townships that won’t get them reelected.
A British guy, an American, an Austrailian and a Japanese man, explore every corner of a frozen japanese town, am so happy to live in this time line.
And just 80 years ago, and still relived in the WW2 channels, these same nationalities were all duking it out all over the Pacific.
the island squad
you are just watching them
@@lola-to9omok and?
@@aa2339imagine showing this to someone at that time.
Hey! From an old lady who's almost sixty....I lived in Japan in the nineties. I love your channel- brings back so many memories. These Journey Across Japan are the bomb! You are a wonderful film maker, narrator and content creator. You and your friends make it so much fun!
Thanks Laurel much appreciated! 🙏
"The bomb" 💀💀💀
@@gurenichinose3857chillllll 🛬
I gotta say - I'm rather envious! If you don't mind me asking; was it for work or just a personal choice?
@@ReizokoRyu of course I was an English teacher. Lol
This episode is great, when Natsuki started his rap I had to stop eating because I was afraid I might choke on my food and die from laughter, Joey's rap is just too good and Pete as always the best guy.
perfectly summarizes it al!! 😂
Obviously, you haven't done a winter in Fussa with your new girlfriend and no such thing as central heating. Left California at 115°F to 30°F. The things we do for love.
history, humor, rap battles... this video has it all
This world used to be a place to learn to suffer, but that has to change. Make this world heaven!
TH-cam is here!!
Wow youtube, only good thing you do is watch chris otherwise your platform is trash
Are you You-tuba?
@@smitywerbenmanjensen5265 Got me
Pete is such a great addition to the Journey Across Japan family! Love his energy.
@@kuzzbillington6392 He's a streamer though, not a youtuber.
Pete is awesome. We need more Pete.
Fr, the way he stretches his arms out to the camera every time Chris introduces him has grown on me. Iconic
The production values of your videos are insane. Always surprises how well made they are, even after all this time watching. Great work 👏
Thanks man! These videos are a solid team effort and a pleasure to produce. Really proud of this series so far and the amazing places we've been able to share with everyone 🍿
@@AbroadinJapan How many people collaborate on the production of these videos?
Can’t take this shit seriously with the Patrick Bateman pfp bro
Ya it's like tv show
☺
The affability of Chris Broad, the earnest awkwardness of Pete, the suffering of Natsuki, Joey being Joey, and Ian and Paul keeping you all alive in the background. All the makings of a good video are present. Keep them coming, lol. We love all of you!
Whos joey? And you forgot to mention two more persons, the animation man and dr jelly.
Only thing missing would be Norm for those sick ass shots on the drone.
@@everythingreview767 joey is joey
@@everythingreview767 I knew Joey from his channel The Anime Man but it was a long time ago so I doubt it's still called this or that he still produces the same content. I hardly watched him back then but now he's grown a lot and seems more adult ☺️
I’m so glad you took the time to teach people about indigenous Ainu culture as both an Indigenous and Japanese person myself it means so much for people know we are still here!
I genuinely thought Ainu people were wiped out. I watched a short video about them(well you) long time ago.
I knew about it thanks to Golden Kamuy, such a epic series
Who are indigenous people anyway are they native Japanese who got colonized by chinese long time ago and breeded with them and made the Japanese race we know today?
Japanese are just the mixed race and they think they are pure and don't want foreigners to mate with them pretty weird people
Can we just take a moment to appreciate the many skills Chris has? Cinematic filming, check. TV-level editing, got it. Arranging elaborate tours, no problem. Beat boxing, sure. Making professional-sounding music, nailed it. Almost makes up for the fact that he can't cook (but he does have exquisite restaurant taste). Keep up the amazing work, Chris! Warm hugs from the Netherlands.
I'd say it more than makes up for his lack of cooking skills. Everyone has their strengths and weaknesses right haha.
I don't mean to be an ass, but you know you can do it without asking if you can, right? Just say "Let's take a moment to ____."
so true! im from the netherlands aswell!!
@@gekko855 Haha I meant it as a joke, because he's made fun of his cooking skills himself (in other videos). But, yes, absolutely. ^^
Man, everyone of you seems like the best person to hang out with, but Natsuki is just an absolute sport, what a man.
Probably the most extroverted Japanese man alive
I love Natsuki, he really is game for absolutely anything!
Chris, the quality of your production is. Incredible. I cannot fathom that this is a free series
Shhh don't give him ideas
if it becomes paid then my life is ruined
They call him ICE C 🥶
This! I appreciate that he doesn't charge us a premium to see his work. He would be justified in doing so tbh but that he doesn't makes me so happy
So true
this was a good episode because we rarely get to hear Natsuki speak Japanese, and i think it would be cool to have him do it more. in fact it would be cool to hear everone speak to natsuki in japanese to just to see them all have a regular conversation.
Natsuki could also do narration in Japanese if Chris ever needed that, I think. He has a really calm and friendly voice when he's just talking normally
yea i was kinda hoping that his rap song would be in japanese, I think he could really spit some bars!
I love these bits were Natsuki talks in Japanese about something interesting he has a good voice and if they talk in a group that would be nice to see!
He has his own channel.
@@aa2339what is it called?
I love how you made an epic video when nothing went as planned. Fishing didn't happen, you improvised. The coldest town wasn't the coldest, you improvised and talked with locals. Really nice work!!
Peter is surprisingly a really good host MC, and the level of quality that Joey and Natsuki brought was leagues ahead from 3 years ago. You all need to splice the verses together and hammer out a chorus, because that is on par with a legit hip hop track.
It's fascinating to see the influence of the Ainu people, who were the traditional natives of Hokkaido, before Japan was established. It's important to promote and appreciate such unique places and the arts and crafts that were part of the indigenous culture. If you're in Hokkaido, highly recommend visiting the Ainu village at Lake Akan. It's a picturesque town with symbolic owls and a connection to nature.
It's on my list!
I love Ainu culture and art. Interesting that the traditional family unit is more similar to modern times where married couples would build a new house to move into, instead of living with parents/grandparents.
Honestly can't express enough how much I enjoy these videos, thank you 🙏
Too bad these videos are getting many less views than normal. These are so great! I’ll have to watch the patreon stuff now too
Weirdly TH-cam has been recommending the last few videos less.
Most likely a crackdown on swearing - in which case we're stuffed, haha.
I feel an upcoming surge of peopleeee, I know it will happen again!
@@AbroadinJapan you are choosing quality content over click bait, don’t ever change this!!
@@AbroadinJapan I think it just takes a little. Not everyone wants to look such good videos in between.
You have to take yourself a little time, to be able to appreciate the content fully....
Ainu culture is kind of underrepresented. I only discovered their existence through Golden Kamuy, the manga Joey brought up. That and this series really put the determination in me to make an extensive trip through Hokkaido in the future. It's such a fascinating place!
FR THO, I had the exact same experience
There is also the setting of Legends Arceus and Teddie’s Personas, but that’s it.
I love that Natsuki interviewed the ramen shopkeeper!
Honestly? you guys need to go international with this production, it's already over and above the standard required for TV, you have personalities galore, and each and every episode of JAJ leaves the viewer looking forward to the next episode.
For me, it's like what I said in a previous episode, When I hear the JAJ theme playing, I am instantly happy and ready to watch another episode, it's fantastic!
my thoughts exactly!
Same man i'm also happy everytime i see JAJ and love the places they visit with telling the history or the situation it is in and such good quality couldn't agree more!❤
NOTIFICATION SQUAD: Who do YOU think won the rap battle? Credit where it's due to Natsuki, he did it in English! We didn't help him write it either (as you can probably tell).
The final episode of our epic 1,000km journey across Hokkaido is out later this week, for now enjoy the episode and snap up some Dr Jelly merch on the Abroad in Japan store! ⭐
abroad-in-japan.creator-spring.com/
⛩ Itinerary for WHERE we went: www.funliday.com/abroadinjapan/journals/89969
both of you won the rap battle in my eyes
@@shubashubashubasyou haven’t even watched it yet…
@a That's a speedrun to watch a video lol
@@shubashubashubas Couldn't have said it better myself
Griffith did nothing wrong.
DJ Jelly absolutely killed it, that was some serious word poetry. This whole series has been superb.
I'm so glad that Connor was able to make it to the hotel with you!
My Japanese teacher some years ago was part Ainu, his grandma was Ainu - and he had blue eyes from her. He told us about how growing up just outside of Tokyo he was treated differently and ‘other’ just because of his eyes from his grandma, and how he felt when he was a child and teenager when he wished his eyes were brown as well…
As an adult be moved to the U.K. and became a Japanese teacher, when I met him he was much older (basically semi retired) and proud of his heritage. He made sure to teach us not only Japanese language and culture, but also he taught us Ainu culture.
I hope that things are better for the Ainu now as Japan has become a little more international, because his stories of how his grandma was treated were not good.
the ainu were brutally displaced by the japanese government and people, its not as "friendly" as this video describes. The ainu didnt choose to live in uninhabitable regions because there were too many people coming, they were forcefully displaced.
I love Pete, his positivity is infectious, such a great hypeman for the crazy competitions Natsuki and Joey get into. I loved Natsuki begging Peter for help. Combined with Chris's dry humor, I feel like he was the missing ingredient in your trio...a quartet now. Need a 5th and you'd have a 5-man band, any candidates coming to mind? ;)
Connor of course
yep agreed, they are missing connor
There is no need for a fifth. It's already crowded.
@@gaspump They definitely don't NEED a fifth, but I am fine either way. Just enjoying watching this fun group
@@rajismiley8937 Connor was there in the clossed.
Is there anything that Pete has not done? Such a cool dude, would like to watch a documentary on his life adventures. Thank you for this awesome episode. Must have been soo...cool...to have been on this trip.
Pointed out the same thing, I want to hear about his days as a taxidermist!
watch the trash taste special with him
Pete is the greatest
at first when he began appearing in chris videos . i was like . come on . who is this ? why is he here ? but now he has become my fave charectar in the abroad in japan series !
@@codenameterr0r351 seen it, the ppl demand more!
You guys really went to a town known for it's cold temperatures on a day it was relatively warm, couldn't find any particularly interesting tourist sights, and still managed to make every second of the video entertaining! It's honestly incredibly impressive, just goes to show how talented Chris is and how him and the boys have such great chemistry together!
Abroad in Japan is the most consistently entertaining channel I've ever discovered on TH-cam, what's more is that this dude just never fell off.. he's more popular and successful than ever before. His videos always seem to do well etc.
We really appreciate the fresh energy Pete brings to the Journey Across Japan.
@@noolie62Condolences, but I am "We"
@@noolie62cool
Chris, thank you for spreading awareness of Japan's indigenous population.
This series just keeps getting better and better! Lake Akan looks amazing. The rap battle was brilliant, Doctor Jelly for the win. Thank you to Chris and the team for sharing this, looking forward to the next one
5:57
Chris casually waving his mates out of frame is the most adorable thing
AH! It looks so beautiful! I really want to go now. 😅
Woah it’s you guys
Interesting that you point out that the owl statues at the Akan Kotan have a stare to them like they're watching everything - Cikap-kamuy, also known as Kotan-kor-kamuy is the Ainu deity who watches over villages and is depicted as an owl. The name kotan-kor-kamuy means "Village guarding kamuy (kami)"!
That was amazing! Pete and Natsuki together is just an incredibly entertaining combo! But, my god, that rap battle! I was watching that stream!! Natsuki is a trooper but you just can’t beat Dr Jelly’s flow. 😂 RIP Pete’s hair too! Thanks for taking Pete this time, he’s such a good soul. We must protect him at all costs. All of you guys just put a big goofy smile on my face. Looking forward to the next one!! 🙌
We need a Pete: the movie. Doesn't really surprise me he was a taxidermist, like - what DIDN'T he do?! I always look forward to the Journey Across Japan series, the production quality is amazing! An absolute banger!
WAIT WHAT?! Pete was a taxidermist? That man has led a very unique life. Honestly thought we'd covered all of Pete's odd stories, but he casually busts out another one.
When he mentioned this on one hand with all his stories I'm not surprised but on another I was that was like, was that a joke O.o I don't know!
Exactly what I thought, how have we seen so many videos and drunk irl streams and never heard that one 😅
Must be one of the reasons why his vibe isn't one I'm particularly fond of. I have always hated taxidermy. Definitely prefer the videos he isn't in. I feel bad saying that, but that's just my honest opinion.
@@englishatheart fair enough, everyone can't like everyone but not sure how taxidermy is relavant to how he acts later in life
@Christine C. Taxidermy isn't necessarily something that promotes animal abuse. Actually alot of people do it out of respect for the animal or as a way to preserve beloved pets.
It feels like Chris was made to create this kind of content. The professional shots, the gorgeous B-roll, the occasional bits of history (but never too long) and the fantastic mix of genuine storytelling vs just goofy, normal jokes.
The whole Ainu bit at the start is a great example of why this channel is just great. We get a concise rundown of the Ainu history and who they are, followed by Pete explaining how important it is to acknowledge something like that and then Chris barges in with a deliciously bad joke on purpose to break up this serious topic and get the viewers smoothly back into the video.
I mean, that's just really well done. Could've gone wrong in so many ways. Chris just really knows his shit and it's a delight to see.
Hands down, I'm relieved it wasn't any colder when Natsuki had to dive into the snow. I can seriously imagine he might've suffered physical damage if it had been lower... 😰
Love you Chris!!! Thanks for bringing so much content about Japan to an austrian living room. Can't wait to visit Japan one day! 😊
This is my favourite episode so far, what a perfect way to end my day.
The production is amazing and Natsuki is the G.O.A.T
The Ainu village is so beautiful. I love the animal carvings and I hope they can continue to preserve their culture.
We've been watching Abroad In Japan for several years now and my wife and I always enjoy a good Journey Across Japan Series! Thank you Chris, Natsuki, Joey, and Pete and of course the crew behind the scenes as well!
Love what this channel has become over the years. The production, information, friendships, and silliness. Hope that you and your team continue to put out amazing content and cherish all the memories!
Having watched Chris for years and years seeing the slow increase in production quality has been so awesome. One of the best overall channels on TH-cam imo
I mean it's said to death but, it's something worth saying, damn it! Fantastic content all around. This channel is something that I could honestly, without a doubt, say is totally unique to TH-cam. The style, humor, production (not only in expenses, but talent!) and presentation is something I could only identify coming from Abroad in Japan.
Coldest place in Japan, and you guys just get -2 degrees that day 😅 Well I guess you must also be really happy that the equipment didn‘t froze all the time 😂
There must still be a lot places in Hokkaido to explore, which gaves me the feeling that, everytime I‘m watching your videos, I just wanna jump in, and explore with you guys.
What an awesome group of friends, you are !
Continue the great and awesome work guys !! We want more of this !! 🙇🏻🙇🏻🙇🏻
Joey had the best overall rap but Natsuki definitely had the best line at 22:39 😂
Dude DrJelly out here with the absolute FIRE rap! Let’s gooooo.
I love these series so much. Great job Chris!
These are so well produced it's unbelievable. Nothing better than when a new Abroad in Japan video gets released
A landlocked town being the coldest in Japan makes more sense than you'd think. Any town near a large body of water will have a milder temperature range, as the water helps mediate the temperatures throughout the year. That doesn't mean they don't have wicked hot or cold days, just not as often.
Yup. Same thing with Alaska. Interior (Fairbanks regularly hits -40 which is even in F and C) is more consistently cold than even Barrow in the north of the state.
yep thats why the midwest in the US is cold as fuck.
The team:
Chris the narrator
Pete the presenter
Natsuki the interviewer
Joey the commentator
Natsuki is a warm, kind, precious man. I really like him. ❤
I second Joey's Golden Kamuy recommendation. If you're too lazy to read the manga, the anime adaptation is just as good! You learn a lot about the Ainu and also get your fair share of laughs and absurd comedy.
I love these videos so much. It’s like a bunch of friends just living their best lives and experiencing new things and cultures.
Thank you Chris, and the rest of the team!! I had been following you through your journey, by watching Peter's lives, and I am really happy to finally see the "final product". Amazing edit, and so much fun watching it! Thank you!
The Ainu village looked so cool. Hope their cultural and linguistic revival continues.
Natski, having a normal convo with the resturant owner was so satisfying for some reason haha
this is a great episode, especially the rap battle part! also, i highly agree with pete on what he said about promoting ainu locations and ainu culture. also, im hype on watching the last episode of Journey Across Japan: Frozen Frontiers!
I have experienced -40 degrees in northern Sweden, and although it isn't as spectacularly cold as some places on earth can be, it was actually cold enough I couldn't breath without having my face covered. inhaling the cold air caused coughing every single time. :)
@@tangelite9968 haha, well it wasn't so bad, but I was a bit surprised since I had been out in -30 degrees before and not experiencing the same thing. I was only 14 at the time. 26 years ago. I was on a skiing trip with friends and my mom told me that I should call her once I reached the hotel. Back then we didn't have cell phones, and I didn't know I could just ask the hotel to make a call, so scurried out in the snow to a phone booth in -40 (imagine that) at first it was fine, but as my nose was starting to get blocked I had to breath through my mouth, and that's when I realized that the air didn't heat up enough when it reached my lungs. I had to cover my face (which I probably should've done before I left the hotel even xD)
Chris channel and journey across japan really inspires you to keep learning more about Japan and its culture
Pete has been a fantastic addition to Journey across Japan! And what a cool theme, frozen frontier, sounds like a James Bond movie
23:50 The vocals and beat are very groovy, make a full song, "I love the Ice in Hokkaido, thank you, in Hokkaido"
Love Chrises style of filming and story telling it's awesome, makes me always want to visit Japan
My home state of Wisconsin (US) has a climate very similar to Hokkaido but with less snow. In winter we have things like the "polar bear plunge," where a hole is cut in a frozen lake and people jump in. The cold shock often causes their limbs to seize up, so it's essential to have volunteers to fish people out.
heh i live near lacrosse, just got back from japan last month!
You cheese heads are nuts
@@SuperCatacata We are a normal level of nuts. We are, however, very drunk.
Minnesota too! Frozen lakes are integral to the upper Midwest experience lol my college in northern Minnesota let the students park for free on the lake during the winter so we could save some money
@@ShlebyC I lived in Duluth for a few years. Having a few breweries right on the lake really helps
I always have a big stupid grin on my face watching Journey across Japan. Joey/Natsuki/Pete are such a great combination and your production skills are insane Chris!
This series has made me fall in love with natski all over again
if there's 2.83M chris fans i'm one of them. if there's 100 fans I'm one of them. if there's 1 fan I'm one of them. if there's none I'm dead.
That’s the spirit 😂
hokkaido is so underrated glad chris featured so many different and cool places in these videos! looking forward to the next one!
21:37, I thought he said something else at first 💀
Lmao love seeing Chris trying quietly tell his crew to move away from being in the shot 😂 @5:56
haha that was really funny, thanks
Hahaha that was great
I thought no one noticed! Ahahah
I know right! I was trying to see if anyone else noticed XD
pete was a taxidermist?? been watching this man for months and everytime he's on camera I learn something new about him! he's just full of surprises
Mixing both their raps together makes another awsome song
The quality of content you put forward on this channel is fantastic. Not just the subject and flow of the videos, but the cinematography as well. You should be very proud
It's a wonderful watch as always. Thanks, Chris and the Abroad In Japan team.
Chris you outdo yourself every time. Great new journey series! Would love to learn more about the Ainu people too at some point.
This was as good as or even better than the previous journey across japan vids chris! cant believe the fifth series is almost over.Hope to see more of pete,he was a really great addition to the series and also the 1000 year old demon ryotaro
Leaving this comment to help with the algorithm. Love your videos Chris! And it’s great to see Pete in the team.
Loved this, thanks for further insights into Japanese culture, but particularly for highlighting what happened to the Ainu.
Yooo love how these are coming out really quick after each other
I remember seeing these scenes months ago on Pete’s Twitch channel! It’s crazy the amount of preparation needed to make this series. Nice work, Chris and JAJ crew!!!
Ainu is very very similar to Alaskan natives. The clothing, dancing, drums, cooking and song. Amazing comparison.
Ugh Natsuki is the best man. He commits to every bit with everything he has. That man knows how to love life.
Absolutely love the Journey Across Japan series. Can't wait for more!
Another great adventure! The chicken soy sauce ramen looks amazing! DJ Rapsuki's expression was priceless! @12:12. I must say Natsuki did great writing the rap verses not in his native language. I would have loved to hear the rap challenge performed in the contestant's non-native language. Joey had great verses too, congratulations to give him credit. That snow drop - even I felt it. Brrr! Natsuki deserved the warm comfortable Onsen afterwards.
It probably would've been most fair to do it in Japanese which they're both actually fluent in, but I get why they'd choose English considering it's an english language channel even though it put Natsuki at a massive disadvantage
I was surprised that Japan has indigenous people and that they were recognized just in 2019!
Yeah, that's too recent
The explanation in this video is not quite right. Ainu has been recognized as an indigenous people for a long time. Back in 1899, Japanese Government made a law to protect them as an indigenous people. Then in 1997, they made a new law specifically to protect their own culture. In 2019, the newest law was established to encourage local governments to use more budget in various ways to support Ainu communities.
Majority of Ainu have been blending with Japanese people and their own culture and language are almost disappearing. In 2007, United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples was adopted and it encouraged the establishment of this new law.
Natsuki, poor Natsuki! there should have been a blanket ready to cover him when he got out of the snow. thanks for the amazing video! :)
Pete has the best reactions, love to see him more.
The production quality of this video is through the roof. One of my favorite episodes of yours, Chris.
In Newfoundland we don't use fishing lines we use jig lines, which is essentially a fishing line and hook wrapped around a stick... Also since I know there's snowmobiles in Japan I'm 100% going now during the winter. Also the ice gets so think here in Alberta Canada we drive our trucks across the ice... I pull up on the lake in a 1ton truck and ice fish. Usually spend the night there too
I do love how Natsuki(sp?) reverts to the traditionally reserved communication style when speaking to the ramen shop owner but is so much more... energetic with his non- Japanese-born friends. It's fun!❤🎉
Thank you Chris for this amazing series!
As someone from Wisconsin, I was absolutely overjoyed that this little town lives on "beer and deer", and of course, nothing better than soup or ramen to warm you up on a cold day. And the landscape is so similar too!
We do have Rikubetsu beat though. In 1888 we hit -38F which is -37.7C, and if we're counting wind chill just 5 years ago we hit -45C/-50F.
It's freezing, but at least we don't have roaches.
really enjoying this series. You're exploring the area the anime Golden Kamuy is set in and I'm excited to see the prison! I would be interested in seeing more episodes from you about the Ainu people!
Another great episode! I didn't see that rap battle coming but it's awesome! Another song and Dr Jelly makes an appearance as well! The Bambi meat comment made me laugh! I also enjoyed the many interesting info about the town you guys are in (the owls are cute). I'm excited but also kind of sad that this season would be over soon.
The highlight of my week, another Abroad in Japan video!They really help me take my mind off things when it's not going too well, and I often rewatch them so thank you for posting!
(also I heard the book is done, congrats! Can't wait to order it!)
We had -40 C here for a few days last winter, it's definitely nasty when there is wind also! It killed my car battery and your skin would freeze in minutes! Now it's a plus 33.5 C day and sun, Canada extremes! 😁
I like the shot at 19:19
Hidden wonder of Rikubetsu!
But seriously great vid, I love Journey Across Japan for how far you guys go toward showing the beauty of the countryside and the local history. Here's to many more.
I've been really liking your vids this past year Chris, well done