Pure TokyoScope
By jaPRESS
Visit www.tokyoscope.com for merchandise.
Visit www.patreon.com/TokyoScopePodcast for bonus episodes and content
168: Japan’s Entertainment Boom Hits the Stock Market! Bandai’s Ultimate Macross Toy!
FULL EPISODE! This time on the PURE TOKYOSCOPE Podcast, authors Matt Alt (Pure Invention: How Japan Made the Modern World) and Patrick Macias (Mondo Tokyo: Dispatches from a Secret Japan) leap back from a short hiatus with a handful of recent pop culture headlines to jaw about, including Japan’s new entertainment stock index, a mind-boggling Macross toy, and the Women of Robotech!
Join the PURE TOKYOSCOPE Patreon!
You’ll get access to full episodes, bonus content, our Discord server, and an archive of past episodes. Head over to Pure TokyoScope Patreon to subscribe today!
INFO
Pure TokyoScope on YouTube
The podcast is produced by jaPRESS LLC© and edited by Patrick Macias
Theme song by Marxy, v.o. by RInRin Doll
167: Japan's New Video Game Boom!
PREVIEW EPISODE! This time on the PURE TOKYOSCOPE Podcast, authors Matt Alt (Pure Invention: How Japan Made the Modern World) and Patrick Macias (Mondo Tokyo: Dispatches from a Secret Japan) explore the sudden rush to enter the game market from players like Toei and Sanrio as part of a bigger government push to increase Japanese pop culture exports! Can you dig it?
You can hear the full episode by joining the Pure TokyoScope Patreon! You’ll get access to full episodes, bonus content, our Discord server, and an archive of past episodes. Head over to Pure TokyoScope Patreon to subscribe today!
166: Emmanuel Lewis vs. Capsule Robo G!
FULL EPISODE! This time on the PURE TOKYOSCOPE Podcast, authors Matt Alt (Pure Invention: How Japan Made the Modern World) and Patrick Macias (Mondo Tokyo: Dispatches from a Secret Japan) sit around in a cafe near Nakano Broadway and discuss the Japanese singing career of Emmanuel Lewis (aka TV’s “Webster”) and the early 1970s toy sensation known as Capsule Robo G! Consider yourselves… warned!
Join the PURE TOKYOSCOPE Patreon!
You’ll get access to full episodes, bonus content, our Discord server, and an archive of past episodes. Head over to Pure TokyoScope Patreon to subscribe today!
INFO
Pure TokyoScope on YouTube
The podcast is produced by jaPRESS LLC© and edited by Patrick Macias
Theme song by Marxy, v.o. by RInRin Doll
165: Japan's Dragon Ball Economy, the Death of a Shibuya Department Store, Gojira-ya Surprise
PREVIEW EPISODE! This time on the PURE TOKYOSCOPE Podcast, authors Matt Alt (Pure Invention: How Japan Made the Modern World) and Patrick Macias (Mondo Tokyo: Dispatches from a Secret Japan) race through a slew of recent headlines in the Japanese pop culture space, from anime economics, to dead department stores, grindhouse theaters, and even a ray of hope for a legendary Tokyo toy store!
You can hear the full episode by joining the Pure TokyoScope Patreon! You’ll get access to full episodes, bonus content, our Discord server, and an archive of past episodes. Head over to Pure TokyoScope Patreon to subscribe today!
164: Japan's New Energy Crisis? Goodbye to Galaxy Express Anime Superstars!
FULL EPISODE! This time on the PURE TOKYOSCOPE Podcast, authors Matt Alt (Pure Invention: How Japan Made the Modern World) and Patrick Macias (Mondo Tokyo: Dispatches from a Secret Japan) look back, and maybe even forward, at Japan’s oil shock energy crisis of the 1970s. Also, they say goodbye to the voice actor and music composer who helped make Galaxy Express 999 so memorable.
Join the PURE TOKYOSCOPE Patreon!
You’ll get access to full episodes, bonus content, our Discord server, and an archive of past episodes. Head over to Pure TokyoScope Patreon to subscribe today!
INFO
Pure TokyoScope on YouTube
The podcast is produced by jaPRESS LLC© and edited by Patrick Macias
Theme song by Marxy, v.o. by RInRin Doll
163: New Evangelion Anime! Record-Breaking Toy Auction! McDonald's Japan Raises Prices!
FULL EPISODE! This time on the PURE TOKYOSCOPE Podcast, authors Matt Alt (Pure Invention: How Japan Made the Modern World) and Patrick Macias (Mondo Tokyo: Dispatches from a Secret Japan) go through a grab bag of recent news items related to Japanese pop culture (and fast food), including Evangelion, the egg sando, vintage toys, and the Hamburglar.
Join the PURE TOKYOSCOPE Patreon!
You’ll get access to full episodes, bonus content, our Discord server, and an archive of past episodes. Head over to Pure TokyoScope Patreon to subscribe today!
INFO
Pure TokyoScope on YouTube
The podcast is produced by jaPRESS LLC© and edited by Patrick Macias
Theme song by Marxy, v.o. by RInRin Doll
162: The AI in Japan Episode!
PREVIEW EPISODE! This time on the PURE TOKYOSCOPE Podcast, authors Matt Alt (Pure Invention: How Japan Made the Modern World) and Patrick Macias (Mondo Tokyo: Dispatches from a Secret Japan) come face to face with the wild rise of generative AI in Japan. From dead wrestlers, to political parties, to manga piracy, no one is innocent… but some are more guilty than others!
You can hear the full episode by joining the Pure TokyoScope Patreon! You’ll get access to full episodes, bonus content, our Discord server, and an archive of past episodes. Head over to Pure TokyoScope Patreon to subscribe today!
161: (Video) Live From the MEGA BULLMARK TOY EXHIBITION!
DO NOT ADJUST YOUR SETS! We are controlling transmission! In this shocking display of video voodoo, authors Matt Alt (Pure Invention: How Japan Made the Modern World) and Patrick Macias (Mondo Tokyo: Dispatches from a Secret Japan) run amok through the recent MEGA BULLMARK TOY EXHIBITION held in Tokyo.
Join the PURE TOKYOSCOPE Patreon!
You’ll get access to full episodes, bonus content, our Discord server, and an archive of past episodes. Head over to Pure TokyoScope Patreon to subscribe today!
INFO
Pure TokyoScope on YouTube
The podcast is produced by jaPRESS LLC© and edited by Patrick Macias
Theme song by Marxy, v.o. by RInRin Doll
160: Pure TokyoScope Podcast 160: Netflix x MAPPA x Anime! Akihabara Renovations! Sony to Spin off TV Business!
FULL EPISODE! This time on the PURE TOKYOSCOPE Podcast, authors Matt Alt (Pure Invention: How Japan Made the Modern World) and Patrick Macias (Mondo Tokyo: Dispatches from a Secret Japan) are BACK with their first show of 2026! It’s an all-current events episode with stuff about anime, Tokyo, and tech. Enjoy!
Join the PURE TOKYOSCOPE Patreon!
You’ll get access to full episodes, bonus content, our Discord server, and an archive of past episodes. Head over to Pure TokyoScope Patreon to subscribe today!
INFO
Pure TokyoScope on YouTube
The podcast is produced by jaPRESS LLC© and edited by Patrick Macias
Theme song by Marxy, v.o. by RInRin Doll
159: Eight Million Ways to Happiness with Hiroko Yoda!
FULL EPISODE! This time on the PURE TOKYOSCOPE Podcast, authors Matt Alt (Pure Invention: How Japan Made the Modern World) and Patrick Macias (Mondo Tokyo: Dispatches from a Secret Japan) are joined by 1st time guest HIROKO YODA, author of the new book Eight Million Ways to Happiness: Wisdom from the Heart of Japan! Dont delay! Buy one today!.
Join the PURE TOKYOSCOPE Patreon!
You’ll get access to full episodes, bonus content, our Discord server, and an archive of past episodes. Head over to Pure TokyoScope Patreon to subscribe today!
INFO
Pure TokyoScope on YouTube
The podcast is produced by jaPRESS LLC© and edited by Patrick Macias
Theme song by Marxy, v.o. by RInRin Doll
158: W. David Marx on Popeye's Hello, Tokyo! English Edition!
FULL EPISODE! This time on the PURE TOKYOSCOPE Podcast, authors Matt Alt (Pure Invention: How Japan Made the Modern World) and Patrick Macias (Mondo Tokyo: Dispatches from a Secret Japan) talk to author and editor W. David Marx about his recent work including Popeye’s Hello, Tokyo! English Edition and the new book Blank Space: A Cultural History of the Twenty-First Century.
Join the PURE TOKYOSCOPE Patreon!
You’ll get access to full episodes, bonus content, our Discord server, and an archive of past episodes. Head over to Pure TokyoScope Patreon to subscribe today!
INFO
Pure TokyoScope on YouTube
The podcast is produced by jaPRESS LLC© and edited by Patrick Macias
Theme song by Marxy, v.o. by RInRin Doll
157: The Yoshikazu Yasuhiko Anime Art Gallery Experience!
FULL EPISODE! This time on the PURE TOKYOSCOPE Podcast, authors Matt Alt (Pure Invention: How Japan Made the Modern World) and Patrick Macias (Mondo Tokyo: Dispatches from a Secret Japan) marvel at a recent art show in Tokyo of works by master animator, director, and character designer Yoshikazu Yasuhiko of Mobile Suit Gundam, Crusher Joe, and Giant Gorg fame!
Join the PURE TOKYOSCOPE Patreon!
You’ll get access to full episodes, bonus content, our Discord server, and an archive of past episodes. Head over to Pure TokyoScope Patreon to subscribe today!
INFO
Pure TokyoScope on YouTube
The podcast is produced by jaPRESS LLC© and edited by Patrick Macias
Theme song by Marxy, v.o. by RInRin Doll
156: China Declares War on Japanese Pop Culture! Angel’s Egg 4K Anime Review!
PREVIEW EPISODE! This time on the PURE TOKYOSCOPE Podcast, authors Matt Alt (Pure Invention: How Japan Made the Modern World) and Patrick Macias (Mondo Tokyo: Dispatches from a Secret Japan) dive into some recent events, including the 4K re-release of the Angel’s Egg anime, Burger King Japan getting new owners, and China getting mad at Japanese pop culture!
You can hear the full episode by joining the Pure TokyoScope Patreon! You’ll get access to full episodes, bonus content, our Discord server, and an archive of past episodes. Head over to Pure TokyoScope Patreon to subscribe today!
155: Godzilla Fest and Tamashii Nations 2025 Reports!
FULL EPISODE! This time on the PURE TOKYOSCOPE Podcast, authors Matt Alt (Pure Invention: How Japan Made the Modern World) and Patrick Macias (Mondo Tokyo: Dispatches from a Secret Japan) recount their recent visits to the Godzilla Fest special event in Tokyo and the epic Tamashii Nation toy show in Akihabara. The forecast calls for kaiju, robots, and… Labubu?
Join the PURE TOKYOSCOPE Patreon!
You’ll get access to full episodes, bonus content, our Discord server, and an archive of past episodes. Head over to Pure TokyoScope Patreon to subscribe today!
INFO
Pure TokyoScope on YouTube
The podcast is produced by jaPRESS LLC© and edited by Patrick Macias
Theme song by Marxy, v.o. by RInRin Doll
154: UFO Robo Grendizer! Bear Attacks in Japan! RIP Tomonobu Itagaki!
FULL EPISODE! This time on the PURE TOKYOSCOPE Podcast, authors Matt Alt (Pure Invention: How Japan Made the Modern World) and Patrick Macias (Mondo Tokyo: Dispatches from a Secret Japan) celebrate the 50th anniversary of UFO Robo Grendizer, the 1975 anime series that became a global sensation! Also, RIP to Ninja Gaiden creator Tomonobu Itagaki, and a brief history of fatal bear attacks in Japan!
Join the PURE TOKYOSCOPE Patreon!
You’ll get access to full episodes, bonus content, our Discord server, and an archive of past episodes. Head over to Pure TokyoScope Patreon to subscribe today!
INFO
Pure TokyoScope on YouTube
The podcast is produced by jaPRESS LLC© and edited by Patrick Macias
Theme song by Marxy, v.o. by RInRin Doll
153: Give My Regards to Nakano Broadway!
FULL EPISODE! This time on the PURE TOKYOSCOPE Podcast, authors Matt Alt (Pure Invention: How Japan Made the Modern World) and Patrick Macias (Mondo Tokyo: Dispatches from a Secret Japan) try to catch their breath and make sense of the madness after a speed run through Nakano Broadway, Tokyo’s insane otaku (and luxury watch?) shopping center!
Join the PURE TOKYOSCOPE Patreon!
You’ll get access to full episodes, bonus content, our Discord server, and an archive of past episodes. Head over to Pure TokyoScope Patreon to subscribe today!
INFO
Pure TokyoScope on YouTube
The podcast is produced by jaPRESS LLC© and edited by Patrick Macias
Theme song by Marxy, v.o. by RInRin Doll
152: The Manga Legend Tracing Scandal!
PREVIEW EPISODE! This time on the PURE TOKYOSCOPE Podcast, authors Matt Alt (Pure Invention: How Japan Made the Modern World) and Patrick Macias (Mondo Tokyo: Dispatches from a Secret Japan) examine the case against Eguchi Hisashi who was recently caught tracing photos (without permission!) for his artwork! Also, lost works by Osamu Tezuka, a Japanese beer cyberattack, and a trip to Shibuya Burger King!
You can hear the full episode by joining the Pure TokyoScope Patreon! You’ll get access to full episodes, bonus content, our Discord server, and an archive of past episodes. Head over to Pure TokyoScope Patreon to subscribe today!
151: Live From SUPER FESTIVAL 92! Vintage Toy Insanity!
FULL EPISODE! This time on the PURE TOKYOSCOPE Podcast, authors Matt Alt (Pure Invention: How Japan Made the Modern World) and Patrick Macias (Mondo Tokyo: Dispatches from a Secret Japan) run amok and ragged through the Japanese toy and figure paradise that is SUPER FESTIVAL… and you are there!
Join the PURE TOKYOSCOPE Patreon!
You’ll get access to full episodes, bonus content, our Discord server, and an archive of past episodes. Head over to Pure TokyoScope Patreon to subscribe today!
INFO
Pure TokyoScope on YouTube
The podcast is produced by jaPRESS LLC© and edited by Patrick Macias
Theme song by Marxy, v.o. by RInRin Doll
150: Live from Jimbocho, The Coolest Neighborhood in the World!?
FULL EPISODE! This time on the PURE TOKYOSCOPE Podcast, authors Matt Alt (Pure Invention: How Japan Made the Modern World) and Patrick Macias (Mondo Tokyo: Dispatches from a Secret Japan) celebrate 150 episodes of podcasting with a visit to Jimbocho, recently voted The World’s Coolest Neighborhood by Time Out.
Join the PURE TOKYOSCOPE Patreon!
You’ll get access to full episodes, bonus content, our Discord server, and an archive of past episodes. Head over to Pure TokyoScope Patreon to subscribe today!
INFO
Pure TokyoScope on YouTube
The podcast is produced by jaPRESS LLC© and edited by Patrick Macias
Theme song by Marxy, v.o. by RInRin Doll
149: Is the US Ready for Japanese 7-Elevens?
PREVIEW EPISODE! This time on the PURE TOKYOSCOPE Podcast, authors Matt Alt (Pure Invention: How Japan Made the Modern World) and Patrick Macias (Mondo Tokyo: Dispatches from a Secret Japan) discuss the $13 billion dollar plan to export Japanese-style 7-Eleven convenience stores to the United States. Also included: spoiler-free reviews of the new hit films Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle and Exit 8!
You can hear the full episode by joining the Pure TokyoScope Patreon! You’ll get access to full episodes, bonus content, our Discord server, and an archive of past episodes. Head over to Pure TokyoScope Patreon to subscribe today!
148: The Rise of Toy "Kidults" in Japan! Cheap Trick Returns to Budokan!
PREVIEW EPISODE! This time on the PURE TOKYOSCOPE Podcast, authors Matt Alt (Pure Invention: How Japan Made the Modern World) and Patrick Macias (Mondo Tokyo: Dispatches from a Secret Japan) face the rise of “kidult” collectors in Japan, who are helping the toy industry reach new heights of fun and profits! Also, Cheap Trick returns to Tokyo Budokan for a farewell concert!
You can hear the full episode by joining the Pure TokyoScope Patreon!
You’ll get access to full episodes, bonus content, our Discord server, and an archive of past episodes. Head over to Pure TokyoScope Patreon to subscribe today!
147: Deep Inside Shōnen Jump Magazine! Anime NYC Report! US-Japan Mail Chaos!
FULL EPISODE! This time on the PURE TOKYOSCOPE Podcast, authors Matt Alt (Pure Invention: How Japan Made the Modern World) and Patrick Macias (Mondo Tokyo: Dispatches from a Secret Japan) discuss Matt’s New Yorker article about going behind the scenes of Japan’s most popular manga magazine Shōnen Jump! Also a look at Anime NYC and rants about the state of US-Japan postal relations!
Join the PURE TOKYOSCOPE Patreon!
You’ll get access to full episodes, bonus content, our Discord server, and an archive of past episodes. Head over to Pure TokyoScope Patreon to subscribe today!
INFO
Pure TokyoScope on YouTube
The podcast is produced by jaPRESS LLC© and edited by Patrick Macias
Theme song by Marxy
146: Demon Slayer Destroys Japanese Cinemas!
PREVIEW EPISODE! This time on the PURE TOKYOSCOPE Podcast, authors Matt Alt (Pure Invention: How Japan Made the Modern World) and Patrick Macias (Mondo Tokyo: Dispatches from a Secret Japan) examine the box office smash anime that is Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle and the impact it is having on the theater-going experience inJapan! Also, One Piece becomes a symbol of resistance in Indonesia and Pocky sweet treats get a 3-D trademark!
You can hear the full episode by joining the Pure TokyoScope Patreon!
You’ll get access to full episodes, bonus content, our Discord server, and an archive of past episodes. Head over to Pure TokyoScope Patreon to subscribe today!
145: A Brief History of Conspiracy Theories in Japan!
FULL EPISODE! This time on the PURE TOKYOSCOPE Podcast, authors Matt Alt (Pure Invention: How Japan Made the Modern World) and Patrick Macias (Mondo Tokyo: Dispatches from a Secret Japan) run amok through a mental mindfield of Japanese conspiracy theories past, present, and future running the gamut from mind-control, urban legends, and how the lunatic fringe is setting up shop in the political arena!
Join the PURE TOKYOSCOPE Patreon!
You’ll get access to full episodes, bonus content, our Discord server, and an archive of past episodes. Head over to Pure TokyoScope Patreon to subscribe today!
INFO
Pure TokyoScope on YouTube
The podcast is produced by jaPRESS LLC© and edited by Patrick Macias
Theme song by Marxy
144: The Far Right in Japan Comes for Anime!
PREVIEW EPISODE! This time on the PURE TOKYOSCOPE Podcast, authors Matt Alt (Pure Invention: How Japan Made the Modern World) and Patrick Macias (Mondo Tokyo: Dispatches from a Secret Japan) face the rise of the Sanseito political party in Japan who have anime and manga on their right-wing agenda. Also, we say goodbye to Ozzy, Hulk Hogan, and a legendary movie theater in Tokyo. And did we mention Pac-Man?
You can hear the full episode by joining the Pure TokyoScope Patreon!
You’ll get access to full episodes, bonus content, our Discord server, and an archive of past episodes. Head over to Pure TokyoScope Patreon to subscribe today!
143: Digging into the Streaming Anime Data!
PREVIEW EPISODE! This time on the PURE TOKYOSCOPE Podcast, authors Matt Alt (Pure Invention: How Japan Made the Modern World) and Patrick Macias (Mondo Tokyo: Dispatches from a Secret Japan) dive into the data suggesting massive viewership numbers for anime on streaming platforms. Also, a look back at anime in 1983, Jumbo Machinder scams, and sleeping in theconbini parking lot!
You can hear the full episode by joining the Pure TokyoScope Patreon!
You’ll get access to full episodes, bonus content, our Discord server, and an archive of past episodes. Head over to Pure TokyoScope Patreon to subscribe today!
142: New Study Reveals Global Anime Boom! The Manga Disaster That Didn’t Happen! Fist of the North Star!
FULL EPISODE! This time on the PURE TOKYOSCOPE Podcast, authors Matt Alt (Pure Invention: How Japan Made the Modern World) and Patrick Macias (Mondo Tokyo: Dispatches from a Secret Japan) dive into a new consumer study with some big insights into the current state of the anime biz. Plus, how we survived several big disasters including a massive manga-predicted earthquake that didn’t happen, the Great Robot War and a Backstreet Boy at Anime Expo!
Join the PURE TOKYOSCOPE Patreon!
You’ll get access to full episodes, bonus content, our Discord server, and an archive of past episodes. Head over to Pure TokyoScope Patreon to subscribe today!
INFO
Pure TokyoScope on YouTube
The podcast is produced by jaPRESS LLC© and edited by Patrick Macias
Theme song by Marxy
141: The Overtourism in Japan Episode!
PREVIEW EPISODE! This time on the PURE TOKYOSCOPE Podcast, authors Matt Alt (Pure Invention: How Japan Made the Modern World) and Patrick Macias (Mondo Tokyo: Dispatches from a Secret Japan) wrestle with Rock Lords and the problem of Overtourism in Japan. Also, the closing of a historic KFC in Tokyo, and the return of otaku dining hot spot Anna Miller’s!
You can hear the full episode by joining the Pure TokyoScope Patreon!
You’ll get access to full episodes, bonus content, our Discord server, and an archive of past episodes. Head over to Pure TokyoScope Patreon to subscribe today!
140: Evangelion Star Attacks Rude Foreigners! Japan's Rice Shortage! Gobots!
FULL EPISODE! This time on the PURE TOKYOSCOPE Podcast, authors Matt Alt (Pure Invention: How Japan Made the Modern World) and Patrick Macias (Mondo Tokyo: Dispatches from a Secret Japan) react to a Japanese anime voice actress taking aim at foreigners, the ongoing rice shortages, and some recently discovered Gobot lore among lots of other topics.
Join the PURE TOKYOSCOPE Patreon!
You’ll get access to full episodes, bonus content, our Discord server, and an archive of past episodes. Head over to Pure TokyoScope Patreon to subscribe today!
INFO
Pure TokyoScope on YouTube
The podcast is produced by jaPRESS LLC© and edited by Patrick Macias
Theme song by Marxy
139: Surviving the Vintage Anime T-Shirt Craze! Hello Kitty Overtakes Toyota!
PREVIEW EPISODE! This time on the PURE TOKYOSCOPE Podcast, authors Matt Alt (Pure Invention: How Japan Made the Modern World) and Patrick Macias (Mondo Tokyo: Dispatches from a Secret Japan) race through a flurry of recent happenings in Japanese pop culture including unidentified Hideaki Anno sightings, Hello Kitty outpacing Toyota in the stock markt and, Japan’s vintage anime T-shirt takeover!
You can hear the full episode by joining the Pure TokyoScope Patreon!
You’ll get access to full episodes, bonus content, our Discord server, and an archive of past episodes. Head over to Pure TokyoScope Patreon to subscribe today!
138: The Japanese Food That Made Us!
FULL EPISODE! This time on the PURE TOKYOSCOPE Podcast, authors Matt Alt (Pure Invention: How Japan Made the Modern World) and Patrick Macias (Mondo Tokyo: Dispatches from a Secret Japan) discuss the Japanese Foods That Made them the amazing physical specimens they are today, from Top Ramen, to beef Teriyaki, and fancy tonkatsu meals with dining recommendations for your next trip to Tokyo.
Join the PURE TOKYOSCOPE Patreon!
You’ll get access to full episodes, bonus content, our Discord server, and an archive of past episodes. Head over to Pure TokyoScope Patreon to subscribe today!
INFO
Pure TokyoScope on YouTube
The podcast is produced by jaPRESS LLC© and edited by Patrick Macias
Theme song by Marxy
137: RIP Japan Video! The Micronauts Are Back! Manga Predicts Major Disaster!
FULL EPISODE! This time on the PURE TOKYOSCOPE Podcast, authors Matt Alt (Pure Invention: How Japan Made the Modern World) and Patrick Macias (Mondo Tokyo: Dispatches from a Secret Japan) say "sayonara" to San Francisco's Japan Video, "welcome back" to the Micronauts toy line, and "good grief" to a deadly prediction about Japan in July 2025!
Join the PURE TOKYOSCOPE Patreon!
You’ll get access to full episodes, bonus content, our Discord server, and an archive of past episodes. Head over to Pure TokyoScope Patreon to subscribe today!
INFO
Pure TokyoScope on YouTube
The podcast is produced by jaPRESS LLC© and edited by Patrick Macias
Theme song by Marxy
136: The Japanese Fiction That Made Us!
FULL EPISODE! This time on the PURE TOKYOSCOPE Podcast, authors Matt Alt (Pure Invention: How Japan Made the Modern World) and Patrick Macias (Mondo Tokyo: Dispatches from a Secret Japan) discuss the Japanese fiction books and authors that BLOW THEIR MINDS from Haruki Murakami, to Masaya Nakahara, Kobo Abe, and beyond!
Join the PURE TOKYOSCOPE Patreon!
You’ll get access to full episodes, bonus content, our Discord server, and an archive of past episodes. Head over to Pure TokyoScope Patreon to subscribe today!
INFO
Pure TokyoScope on YouTube
The podcast is produced by jaPRESS LLC© and edited by Patrick Macias
Theme song by Marxy
135: The Masamune Shirow Expo! Fear & Loathing in Golden Week!
In this preview episode of the PURE TOKYOSCOPE Podcast, authors Matt Alt (Pure Invention: How Japan Made the Modern World) and Patrick Macias (Mondo Tokyo: Dispatches from a Secret Japan) try to explain the Japanese holiday known as Golden Week and share their impressions of the ongoing exhibition of manga art by Masamune Shirow (Ghost in the Shell) now taking place in Tokyo.
You can hear the full episode by joining the Pure TokyoScope Patreon!
You’ll get access to full episodes, bonus content, our Discord server, and an archive of past episodes. Head over to Pure TokyoScope Patreon to subscribe today!
134: Osaka Expo 2025! New Ghost in the Shell! How to Hard Off!
FULL EPISODE! This time on the PURE TOKYOSCOPE Podcast, authors Matt Alt (Pure Invention: How Japan Made the Modern World) and Patrick Macias (Mondo Tokyo: Dispatches from a Secret Japan) riff on the Osaka Expo (with a detour back to 1970), the new Ghost in the Shell anime, and what's the best Hard Off?
Join the PURE TOKYOSCOPE Patreon!
You’ll get access to full episodes, bonus content, our Discord server, and an archive of past episodes. Head over to Pure TokyoScope Patreon to subscribe today!
INFO
Pure TokyoScope on YouTube
The podcast is produced by jaPRESS LLC© and edited by Patrick Macias
Theme song by Marxy
133: The Ghibli Filter Effect! Anime Tariffs! The Rat in the Miso Soup!
In this preview episode of the PURE TOKYOSCOPE Podcast, authors Matt Alt (Pure Invention: How Japan Made the Modern World) and Patrick Macias (Mondo Tokyo: Dispatches from a Secret Japan) dicuss the current state of Japanese pop culture including the Ghibli AI filter, the Trump tariffs effects on anime merch, and the rat in the miso soup!
You can hear the full episode by joining the Pure TokyoScope Patreon!
You’ll get access to full episodes, bonus content, our Discord server, and an archive of past episodes. Head over to Pure TokyoScope Patreon to subscribe today!
132: LIVE from the Space Battleship Yamato Anime Art Expo!
FULL EPISODE! In this episode of the Pure TokyoScope Podcast, authors Matt Alt (Pure Invention: How Japan Made the Modern World) and Patrick Macias (Mondo Tokyo: Dispatches from a Secret Japan) are off to outer space via the Seibu Department store in Shibuya, Tokyo for a floor walk at the Space Battleship Yamato Complete Record Exhibition, produced by Hideaki Anno and YOU ARE THERE!
Join the PURE TOKYOSCOPE Patreon!
You’ll get access to full episodes, bonus content, our Discord server, and an archive of past episodes. Head over to Pure TokyoScope Patreon to subscribe today!
INFO
Pure TokyoScope on YouTube
The podcast is produced by jaPRESS LLC© and edited by Patrick Macias
Theme song by Marxy
131: Anno's Yamato Anime Exhibition! Japan's Vinyl Record Resurgence!
FULL EPISODE! This time on the PURE TOKYOSCOPE Podcast, authors Matt Alt (Pure Invention: How Japan Made the Modern World) and Patrick Macias (Mondo Tokyo: Dispatches from a Secret Japan) are off to outer space to save the human race by talking about the new exhibition of Space Battleship Yamato anime art hosted by Hideaki Anno of Neon Genesis Evangelion fame! Also, Japan strikes back at a recent news article about the resurgence in vinyl record sales in Tokyo!
Join the PURE TOKYOSCOPE Patreon!
You’ll get access to full episodes, bonus content, our Discord server, and an archive of past episodes. Head over to Pure TokyoScope Patreon to subscribe today!
INFO
Pure TokyoScope on YouTube
The podcast is produced by jaPRESS LLC© and edited by Patrick Macias
Theme song by Marxy
130: Has Akihabara Lost Its Edge?
In this preview episode of the PURE TOKYOSCOPE Podcast, authors Matt Alt (Pure Invention: How Japan Made the Modern World) and Patrick Macias (Mondo Tokyo: Dispatches from a Secret Japan) dicuss the current state of Tokyo's Akihabara shopping district!
You can hear the full episode by joining the Pure TokyoScope Patreon!
You’ll get access to full episodes, bonus content, our Discord server, and an archive of past episodes. Head over to Pure TokyoScope Patreon to subscribe today!
129: The Anime Business with Justin Sevakis!
FULL EPISODE! This time on the PURE TOKYOSCOPE Podcast, author Patrick Macias (Mondo Tokyo: Dispatches from a Secret Japan) talks to home video producer Justin Sevakis of MediaOCD about his work with labels such as Discotek Media, AnimEigo, and his new interview series on YouTube, The Anime Business.
Join the PURE TOKYOSCOPE Patreon!
You’ll get access to full episodes, bonus content, our Discord server, and an archive of past episodes. Head over to Pure TokyoScope Patreon to subscribe today!
INFO
Pure TokyoScope on YouTube
The podcast is produced by jaPRESS LLC© and edited by Patrick Macias
Theme song by Marxy
128: Ambassador Godzilla! Shogun vs Shogun! RIP Mr. Kaiyodo!
FULL EPISODE! This time on the PURE TOKYOSCOPE Podcast, authors Matt Alt (Pure Invention: How Japan Made the Modern World) and Patrick Macias (Mondo Tokyo: Dispatches from a Secret Japan) go through some recent headlines in Japanese pop culture news including Godzilla’s potential as an ambassador, the old Shogun director takes shots at the new Shogun, and we say goodbye to the founder of legendary model and figure company Kaiyodo!
Join the PURE TOKYOSCOPE Patreon!
You’ll get access to full episodes, bonus content, our Discord server, and an archive of past episodes. Head over to Pure TokyoScope Patreon to subscribe today!
INFO
Pure TokyoScope on YouTube
The podcast is produced by jaPRESS LLC© and edited by Patrick Macias
Theme song by Marxy
127: Fifty Years of Super Sentai! (Preview)
In this preview episode of the PURE TOKYOSCOPE Podcast, authors Matt Alt (Pure Invention: How Japan Made the Modern World) and Patrick Macias (Mondo Tokyo: Dispatches from a Secret Japan) talk about 50 years of the Japanese superheroes known as SUPER SENTAI!
You can hear the full episode by joining the Pure TokyoScope Patreon!
You’ll get access to full episodes, bonus content, our Discord server, and an archive of past episodes. Head over to Pure TokyoScope Patreon to subscribe today!
126: Spoiler Free Gundam GQuuuuuuX Anime Review! Winter Wonderfest and the Dealer Dash!
FULL EPISODE! This time on the PURE TOKYOSCOPE Podcast, authors Matt Alt (Pure Invention: How Japan Made the Modern World) and Patrick Macias (Mondo Tokyo: Dispatches from a Secret Japan) dive into all things Gundam with a spoiler-free review of the new Gundam GQuuuuuuX anime film, an update on the live-action Gundam movie, and share some news about the recent Winter Wonderfest hobby event held in Japan!
Join the PURE TOKYOSCOPE Patreon!
You’ll get access to full episodes, bonus content, our Discord server, and an archive of past episodes. Head over to Pure TokyoScope Patreon to subscribe today!
INFO
Pure TokyoScope on YouTube
The podcast is produced by jaPRESS LLC© and edited by Patrick Macias
Theme song by Marxy
125 (Preview): The Fuji TV Scandal! Sayonara Shakey's! Otaku Power in Ikebukuro!
In this preview episode of the PURE TOKYOSCOPE Podcast, authors Matt Alt (Pure Invention: How Japan Made the Modern World) and Patrick Macias (Mondo Tokyo: Dispatches from a Secret Japan) talk about snow country and the increasing amounts of fun to be had in Tokyo's Ikebukuro district. You can hear the full episode by joining the Pure TokyoScope Patreon!
You’ll get access to full episodes, bonus content, our Discord server, and an archive of past episodes. Head over to Pure TokyoScope Patreon to subscribe today!
124: The Macross DYRL 5K Review! Sony Kills Blu-ray and Mini-Discs! Chogokin Returns!
FULL EPISODE! This time on the PURE TOKYOSCOPE Podcast, authors Matt Alt (Pure Invention: How Japan Made the Modern World) and Patrick Macias (Mondo Tokyo: Dispatches from a Secret Japan) share their thoughts on the new AI assisted 5K transfer of the Macross movie. Also, Sony puts an end to Blu-ray and Mini-Disc (!!!) production and Bandai brings back the Spirit of Chogokin toys!
Join the PURE TOKYOSCOPE Patreon!
You’ll get access to full episodes, bonus content, our Discord server, and an archive of past episodes. Head over to Pure TokyoScope Patreon to subscribe today!
INFO
Pure TokyoScope on YouTube
The podcast is produced by jaPRESS LLC©, and engineered and edited by Patrick Macias
Theme song by Marxy
Preview of Episode 123: Popeye in Japan! Nintendo Switch 2! Gundam on the Moon!
In this preview episode of the PURE TOKYOSCOPE Podcast, authors Matt Alt (Pure Invention: How Japan Made the Modern World) and Patrick Macias (Mondo Tokyo: Dispatches from a Secret Japan) rampage through Nakano Broadway and discuss some recent Japanese pop culture topics! You can hear the full episode by joining the Pure TokyoScope Patreon!
You’ll get access to full episodes, bonus content, our Discord server, and an archive of past episodes. Head over to Pure TokyoScope Patreon to subscribe today!
122: The Shogun's Three-Body Problem with Crane Games!
In this episode of the PURE TOKYOSCOPE Podcast, authors Matt Alt (Pure Invention: How Japan Made the Modern World) and Patrick Macias (Mondo Tokyo: Dispatches from a Secret Japan) catch up with each other and go over some recent headlines from Japan including Shogun's big Golden Globes win, a newly announced Three-Body Problem anime, and the invasion of crane games across the Tokyo landscape!
INFO
Pure TokyoScope on YouTube
The podcast is produced by jaPRESS LLC©, and engineered and edited by Patrick Macias
Theme song by Marxy
121: Anime Tourism! Evangelion x McDonald's! Shakey's Strikes Back!
In this episode of the PURE TOKYOSCOPE Podcast, authors Matt Alt (Pure Invention: How Japan Made the Modern World) and Patrick Macias (Mondo Tokyo: Dispatches from a Secret Japan) celebrate the holidays by going over some recent headlines in Japan, such as the rise o anime tourism the Evangelion x Mickey D's collaboration, and the resurrection of our lord and savior... Shakey's!
INFO
Matt Alt on Bluesky
Pure TokyoScope on YouTube
The podcast is produced by jaPRESS LLC©, and engineered and edited by Patrick Macias
Theme song by Marxy
120: VIDEO - Do the Akihabara!
In this episode of the PURE TOKYOSCOPE Podcast, authors Matt Alt (Pure Invention: How Japan Made the Modern World) and Patrick Macias (Mondo Tokyo: Dispatches from a Secret Japan) take you on a lawless rampage through the mean streets of Akihabara, Tokyo in search of cheap thrills and vintage toys. Enjoy!
INFO
Matt Alt on Bluesky
Pure TokyoScope on YouTube
The podcast is produced by jaPRESS LLC©, and engineered and edited by Patrick Macias
Theme song by Marxy
119: Nakano Broadway, the Hard Way! An Otaku Coffee Break!
In this episode of the PURE TOKYOSCOPE Podcast, authors Matt Alt (Pure Invention: How Japan Made the Modern World) and Patrick Macias (Mondo Tokyo: Dispatches from a Secret Japan) take a coffee break at otaku hotspot Nakano Broadway for a wide-ranging talk about the loss of pioneering anime personality Jan Scott-Frazier, the rising cost of vintage anime tees, and much more!
INFO
Matt Alt on Bluesky
Pure TokyoScope on YouTube
The podcast is produced by jaPRESS LLC©, and engineered and edited by Patrick Macias
Theme song by Marxy