Looking for some unusual attractions in Tokyo, Japan? Look no further.

In this episode, we talk to local expert and freelance writer David McElhinney.

David is a Northern Irish journalist and editor based in Tokyo and Belfast. Since first moving to Japan in 2018, he’s written travel articles — as well as pieces on Japanese art, culture and current affairs — for the likes of Lonely Planet, Tokyo Weekender and CNN Travel. He’s currently working on a guidebook to Japan.

In this episode you’ll find out…

• Where to witness the genitalia-celebrating Festival of the Steel Phallus
• Why curry bread and pit-viper liqueur beat salted squid guts
• How rockabilly and jazz music have found a loving home in Tokyo

…and so much more.

You’ll find all David’s picks on the podcast website: www.strangeoldworld.com

(LINKS DON'T WORK ON YOUR PODCAST PLATFORM? THEY'RE ALL AT WWW.STRANGEOLDWORLD.COM TOO)

Read his articles for Tokyo Weekender and check out his freelance website

Here are a couple of the Japan-focused articles we mentioned on the pod:

• Spirituality Without Religion on the Kumano Kodo
• In Praise of Silence: Japan’s Ancient Relationship to the Absence of Noise
• Jazz Kissa: A Musical Culture Unique to Japan

Follow Joe on X or Instagram or get in touch at [email protected]

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