[Festivals of Japan Season 2] The "Mikoji Dance" is a 150-year-old dance performed during the Taromaru Shuuraku Spring Festival in Nagaoka City, Niigata Prefecture. In this dance, the sitting doll of an old man and the standing doll of a young woman comically dance to the accompaniment of vibrant drums,...

[Colors in Japan] Gasho Nishioka, a renowned “sho” (calligrapher) from KudamatsuCity, Yamaguchi Prefecture, is pushing the boundaries of traditional Japanese calligraphy. Known for using only black “sumi” ink, Nishioka seeks to innovate while preserving the timeless beauty of this ancient art form. Click here to preview the episode! Part of...

[Craft Masters of Japan] The Sendai Tansu furniture was created around the end of Edo period (mid-19th century). Its fabrication process is based on 3 traditional techniques which were all inherited from the Edo period; ‘Sashimono (furnishing)’, ‘Urushi lacquer’, and ‘metal fitting’. Nowadays, the tradition is well harmonized with a...

[Beauty of Japan Season 2] An American and English couple have lived in Iiyama City for 3 years. They earn their living through teaching English at schools within the vicinity, but wish to become farmers instead. Their excitement expands as they map out their future lives growing safe and healthy...