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Fluent Fiction - Japanese

Fluent Fiction - Japanese

Written by: FluentFiction.org
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 Are you ready to supercharge your Japanese listening comprehension? Our podcast is the perfect tool for you.

Studies show that the key to mastering a second language is through repetition and active processing. That's why each episode of our podcast features a story in Japanese, followed by a sentence-by-sentence retelling that alternates between Japanese and English.

This approach not only allows you to fully understand and absorb the vocabulary and grammar but also provides a bilingual support to aid your listening comprehension.

But we don't stop there. Research in sociolinguistics highlights the importance of culture in language learning, which is why we provide a list of vocabulary words and a transcript of the audio to help you understand the cultural context of the story. And for your convenience, we also include a transcript of the audio to help you refer back to any parts you may have struggled with.

And our podcast is not just for language learners, it's also for travelers or people who want to connect with their roots. Are you planning a trip to Japan? Maybe you want to speak Japanese with your friends from Tokyo? Our podcast will give you the cultural and linguistic background to fully immerse in Japanese.

Our podcast is based on the latest research in linguistics, sociolinguistics, psychology, cognitive science, neuroscience, and education to provide the most effective method for mastering Japanese listening comprehension. Don't miss this opportunity, give our podcast a try and see the results for yourself.

今日から私たちの日本語のストーリーであなたのリスニング力を向上させましょう！Copyright FluentFiction.org Language Learning
Episodes
  • From Prototype to Production: Rina's Tech Innovation Journey

    From Prototype to Production: Rina's Tech Innovation Journey
    Feb 20 2026
    Fluent Fiction - Japanese: From Prototype to Production: Rina's Tech Innovation Journey Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/ja/episode/2026-02-20-08-38-20-ja Story Transcript:Ja: 東京の秋葉原は、輝くネオンと電子音で溢れています。En: TokyoのAkihabara is overflowing with shining neon lights and electronic sounds.Ja: ここは最新のガジェットが並ぶ場所で、興奮した技術好きや観光客でにぎわっています。En: This is a place where the latest gadgets are displayed, bustling with excited tech enthusiasts and tourists.Ja: 大きな電子機器店の中、棚には様々な機器がぎっしりと詰まっています。En: Inside the large electronics store, shelves are tightly packed with various devices.Ja: 店の一角では、リナが忙しそうに作業をしています。En: In one corner of the store, Rina is busily working.Ja: リナは技術アクセサリーのデザインが大好きなアシスタントです。En: Rina is an assistant who loves designing tech accessories.Ja: 彼女の夢は、自分のデザインしたアクセサリーを商品化すること。En: Her dream is to commercialize the accessories she designs.Ja: しかし、その夢を実現するには、店長のタケシの協力が必要です。En: However, to make this dream a reality, she needs the cooperation of the store manager, Takeshi.Ja: タケシはこの店のマネージャーで、月末までに売上を伸ばすという責任があります。En: Takeshi is the manager of this store, and he has the responsibility of increasing sales by the end of the month.Ja: しかし、最近の売上は思わしくありません。En: Lately, though, sales haven't been promising.Ja: 彼は新しいプロトタイプに投資することに対して慎重です。それがすぐに利益を生む保証がないからです。En: He is cautious about investing in new prototypes because there is no guarantee they will immediately bring in profits.Ja: ある冬の日、リナは自分のプロトタイプをタケシに見せることを決意します。En: On a certain winter day, Rina decides to show her prototype to Takeshi.Ja: 彼女はそれが革新的であると信じています。また、タケシの忙しいスケジュールの中、彼の興味を引くことを願っています。En: She believes it is innovative and hopes to catch his interest amidst his busy schedule.Ja: 忙しい日々の中、タケシは重要な会議に行くところでした。En: During busy days, Takeshi was heading to an important meeting.Ja: リナには、ほんの数分しかありません。En: Rina only had a few minutes.Ja: リナは決心を固め、急いで準備します。En: Rina made up her mind and hurried to prepare.Ja: 彼女はタケシの前に立ち、手早くプロトタイプを披露しました。En: She stood in front of Takeshi and quickly presented the prototype.Ja: そのアイデアは、小さくて便利なアクセサリーです。En: The idea was for a small and convenient accessory.Ja: タケシは初めは少し疑り深かったが、リナの情熱とデザインの細かさに引き込まれました。En: Initially, Takeshi was a bit skeptical, but he was drawn in by Rina's passion and the detail of her design.Ja: 「リナ、この製品、試してみてもいいかもしれないね」と、タケシは笑顔で言いました。En: "Rina, this product might be worth trying," Takeshi said with a smile.Ja: 「小規模生産を計画しよう。」En: "Let's plan for small-scale production."Ja: リナは嬉しさでいっぱいです。En: Rina was filled with joy.Ja: 自分のアイデアが認められたことに、自信を持ち始めました。En: She started to gain confidence, knowing her idea had been recognized.Ja: これからは、彼女もビジネスディスカッションに積極的に参加していくでしょう。En: From now on, she would actively participate in business discussions.Ja: タケシも、即座の売上だけでなく、クリエイティブなアイデアを育むことの価値を見直し始めます。En: Takeshi also began to reassess the value of fostering creative ideas, not just focusing on immediate sales.Ja: 秋葉原の夜は相変わらず明るく、新たな冒険が今始まりました。En: Akihabara's night remained bright as ever, and a new adventure had just begun.Ja: リナとタケシは、店の未来について語り合いながら、次のステップへと進む準備をしています。En: Rina and Takeshi, talking about the store's future, are getting ready to move on to the next step. Vocabulary Words:overflowing: 溢れているgadgets: ガジェットbustling: にぎわってenthusiasts: 好者displayed: 並ぶcommercialize: 商品化するcooperation: 協力responsibility: 責任increasing: 伸ばすpromising: 思...
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    15 mins
  • Blossoms of Friendship: A Kyoto Decision

    Blossoms of Friendship: A Kyoto Decision
    Feb 19 2026
    Fluent Fiction - Japanese: Blossoms of Friendship: A Kyoto Decision Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/ja/episode/2026-02-19-23-34-02-ja Story Transcript:Ja: 京都の桜の名所は、今日も多くの人々で賑わっていた。En: The famous cherry blossom spots in Kyoto were bustling with many people today as well.Ja: 冬の終わり近く、ほんのりと桜が咲き始める中、ハルトはベンチに座って深呼吸をした。En: Nearing the end of winter, with the cherry blossoms gently starting to bloom, Haruto sat on a bench, taking a deep breath.Ja: 「どうしよう…」と心の中で呟く。En: "What should I do…" he murmured in his heart.Ja: ハルトは会社から転勤の話を受けて、どちらを選ぶべきか悩んでいた。En: Haruto was troubled about which option to choose, having been told about a transfer from his company.Ja: 向こうから同僚のミユキがやってきた。En: From the distance, his colleague Miyuki approached.Ja: 「おはよう、ハルト君！」彼女は微笑み、隣に座った。En: "Good morning, Haruto!" she smiled and sat down next to him.Ja: ミユキはハルトに密かに好意を持っていたが、それを言い出せずにいた。En: Miyuki secretly had feelings for Haruto but hadn't been able to express them.Ja: 「今日はいい天気ね。桜ももうすぐ満開になるわ。」En: "It's a nice day today. The cherry blossoms will be in full bloom soon."Ja: そこに、ソラが手を振りながら駆け寄ってくる。En: Then Sora came running over, waving her hand.Ja: 「久しぶり、ハルト！ミユキちゃんも元気？」En: "Long time no see, Haruto! How are things with you, Miyuki?"Ja: ソラは海外留学から戻ったばかりで、久々にハルトと再会したところだった。En: Sora had just returned from studying abroad and was reunited with Haruto after a long time.Ja: 「二人で花見なんて、いいね！」En: "It's nice, having a cherry blossom viewing with you two!"Ja: 三人はしばらく話しながら、桜を見上げていた。En: The three of them chatted for a while, looking up at the cherry blossoms.Ja: ハルトはリラックスしてきた。En: Haruto began to relax.Ja: 桜の美しさと友達との時間が、彼の心を少し和らげてくれた。En: The beauty of the cherry blossoms and the time spent with friends eased his troubled heart a little.Ja: 「でも、どうしようかな…」ハルトはふと言った。En: "But what should I do…" Haruto said suddenly.Ja: ミユキは彼を見つめる。En: Miyuki looked at him.Ja: 「ハルト君、何か悩んでるの？」En: "Are you worried about something, Haruto?"Ja: 彼女の優しい声に、ハルトは思わず本音を話し始めた。En: Her gentle voice prompted Haruto to start speaking honestly.Ja: 「転勤の話があって…どうするべきかわからないんだ。」En: "I got a transfer offer… and I don't know what to do."Ja: ソラは彼の肩に手を置いた。En: Sora placed a hand on his shoulder.Ja: 「新しい環境も悪くないよ。En: "A new environment isn't bad.Ja: でも、今の生活も大事だし、ミユキちゃんもいるしね。」En: But your current life is important, and Miyuki is here too."Ja: ハルトは続ける。「そう、友達や大切な人を置いていくのが怖いんだ。」En: Haruto continued, "Yes, leaving my friends and loved ones behind scares me."Ja: 「…私、ハルト君にいてほしい。」En: "...I want you to stay, Haruto."Ja: ミユキが小声で言った。En: Miyuki said in a small voice.Ja: ハルトは驚いて彼女を見つめた。En: Haruto looked at her in surprise.Ja: 「本当の気持ち、ずっと黙っててごめん。En: "I'm sorry for keeping my true feelings silent for so long.Ja: でも、あなたと一緒にいたい。」En: But I want to be with you."Ja: 桜の花びらがふわりと風に乗って舞い落ちてきた。En: Cherry blossom petals softly rode the wind and fluttered down.Ja: ハルトは深く考えた。En: Haruto thought deeply.Ja: キャリアも大事だが、何より彼に大切なのは、彼を応援してくれる人たちの存在だった。En: His career was important, but above all, what mattered most were the people who supported him.Ja: 「決めたよ、ミユキ。僕、ここにいる。」ハルトは笑顔で答えた。En: "I've decided, Miyuki. I'll stay here," Haruto answered with a smile.Ja: 「仲間と一緒に、桜のしたで笑っていたいんだ。」En: "I want to laugh together under the cherry blossoms with my friends."Ja: ミユキとソラは、ハルトの決断を聞いて喜び、彼を応援した。En: Miyuki and Sora were delighted to hear Haruto's decision and supported him.Ja: 花見の集まりの中、彼らの友情と愛情が一層深まった。En: Amidst the cherry...
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    16 mins
  • When Friendship Heals: A Hospital Visit's Revelations

    When Friendship Heals: A Hospital Visit's Revelations
    Feb 19 2026
    Fluent Fiction - Japanese: When Friendship Heals: A Hospital Visit's Revelations Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/ja/episode/2026-02-19-08-38-20-ja Story Transcript:Ja: 病院の部屋は明るく、柔らかい日差しが磨りガラスの窓から差し込み、武の休むベッドのシーツに模様を作っていた。En: The hospital room was bright, with soft sunlight streaming through the frosted glass window, casting patterns on the sheets of Takeshi's bed where he rested.Ja: 外では、冬の冷たい風が雪で覆われた木々を揺らしていた。En: Outside, the cold winter wind was swaying the snow-covered trees.Ja: ユイはドアの前で深呼吸をした。En: Yui took a deep breath in front of the door.Ja: 彼女の心は緊張でいっぱいだった。En: Her heart was filled with nervousness.Ja: 最近、仕事と個人的な責任に追われ、時間をうまく調整するのが難しかった。En: Lately, she had been overwhelmed with work and personal responsibilities, making it difficult to manage her time well.Ja: でも、今日は武を訪ねることを決意した。En: But today, she was determined to visit Takeshi.Ja: 彼女は大切な仕事の会議を飛ばして、病院に来たのだ。En: She had skipped an important work meeting to come to the hospital.Ja: 病室のドアを開けると、そこには微笑みを浮かべる武がいた。En: When she opened the door to the hospital room, there was Takeshi with a smile on his face.Ja: 彼は術後の回復中で、まだ体に痛みが残っていたが、それでも彼の顔には楽観的な表情が浮かんでいた。En: He was recovering post-surgery and still had pain in his body, yet there was an optimistic expression on his face.Ja: 「ユイちゃん、来てくれてありがとう。」武は嬉しそうに言った。En: "Yui-chan, thank you for coming," Takeshi said happily.Ja: 「もっと早く来るべきだった。ごめんね、遅くなっちゃって。」ユイは申し訳なさそうに言った。En: "I should have come sooner. I'm sorry for being late," Yui said apologetically.Ja: 「そんなことないさ。今こうして来てくれて嬉しいよ。」武は心からの言葉で答える。En: "Not at all. I'm just happy you came now," Takeshi responded with genuine words.Ja: ユイは椅子に座りながら、武が一人でいることがどれほど辛かったかを思った。En: As Yui sat in the chair, she thought about how difficult it must have been for Takeshi to be alone.Ja: 「助けが必要なときは、遠慮なく言ってね。大事な友達だから。」En: "If you need help, don't hesitate to let me know. You're an important friend," she said.Ja: 武の顔が少し考え込む。En: Takeshi's face showed a bit of contemplation.Ja: 「でも、ユイちゃんに負担をかけたくないんだ。」En: "But I don't want to burden you, Yui-chan."Ja: 二人の間に静けさが訪れたが、それは気まずさではなく、深い理解の瞬間だった。En: Silence fell between them, but it wasn't awkward; it was a moment of deep understanding.Ja: 武はついに答えた。「たしかに、時々は助けが必要だ。ありがとう、ユイちゃん。」En: Takeshi finally answered, "It's true, sometimes I do need help. Thank you, Yui-chan."Ja: ユイは微笑んだ。「それなら、これからはお互いに助け合おうね。」En: Yui smiled. "In that case, let's help each other from now on."Ja: その日、二人はずっと話を続け、互いの気持ちや今後の計画を共有した。En: That day, the two of them continued to talk, sharing their feelings and future plans with each other.Ja: ユイは、自分一人で全てを抱えようとするのではなく、助けを求めることが大切だと学んだ。En: Yui learned the importance of not trying to carry everything on her own but seeking help.Ja: 武もまた、時には友達に支えられることの大切さを理解した。En: Takeshi also came to understand the importance of being supported by friends at times.Ja: 病院の外では、冷たい風が吹いていたが、部屋の中には暖かい光が満ち溢れていた。En: Outside the hospital, the cold wind was blowing, but inside the room, there was a warm light overflowing.Ja: 二人の友情は一段と強くなり、それぞれ新たな一歩を踏み出す準備ができていた。En: Their friendship had grown stronger, and they were both ready to take a new step forward.Ja: ユイと武は、これからも困難を共に乗り越えていくことを心に誓った。En: Yui and Takeshi pledged in their hearts to overcome difficulties together from now on. Vocabulary Words:bright: 明るくstreaming: 差し込みfrosted: 磨りガラスpatterns: 模様swaying: 揺らしてnervousness: 緊張overwhelmed: 追われresponsibilities: ...
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    15 mins
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