Ep 117. Conan Without Borders: Japan

Conan Without Borders: Japan is the 117th episode of the eight season of the popular late night talk show, Conan, hosted by comedian and writer Conan O'Brien. In this episode, O'Brien embarks on a special travel edition of his show, taking his comedic talents across the globe to explore the culture and lifestyle of Japan.

The episode begins with O'Brien arriving in Tokyo, where he is welcomed by a group of enthusiastic fans. In his signature style, he introduces himself with a witty remark and quickly dives into exploring the city. Over the next 45 minutes, viewers are taken on a hilarious journey through Japan, as O'Brien immerses himself in the various sights and sounds of the country.

One of the highlights of the episode is O'Brien's visit to a Japanese arcade, where he shows off his gaming skills and takes on a group of local gamers in a fierce competition. He also tries his hand at traditional Japanese crafts, such as calligraphy and pottery, with amusing results. Additionally, he meets with a group of sumo wrestlers and gets a behind-the-scenes look at their training regimen.

Throughout the episode, O'Brien also takes time to sample the local cuisine, which he approaches with both curiosity and humor. He tries everything from street food to fine dining, giving his honest (and often hilarious) opinions on the dishes. In one memorable scene, he even ventures into the world of Japanese vending machines, which offer everything from hot meals to clothing.

But it's not all fun and games for O'Brien, as he also takes time to reflect on some of the more serious aspects of Japanese culture. He visits the site of the Fukushima nuclear disaster, meeting with local residents affected by the tragedy. He also has an emotional moment when visiting the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, where he learns about the devastating effects of the atomic bomb.

Throughout the episode, O'Brien is joined by a cast of local guests who help him navigate the country. These include Tokyo-born comedian and actor Masataka Kubota, and actress Rinko Kikuchi, who is known for her work in films like Babel and Pacific Rim. O'Brien also meets with a group of young Japanese people who share their experiences and perspectives on life in Japan.

Overall, Conan Without Borders: Japan is a delightful and entertaining episode of the popular talk show. Combining O'Brien's signature humor with a fascinating exploration of Japanese culture, the episode offers a unique and entertaining look at one of the world's most fascinating countries. Whether you're a fan of Conan O'Brien or simply interested in Japanese culture, this episode is not to be missed.