[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...

[Festivals of Japan Season 1] Iki Island, in Nagasaki Prefecture, has about 1,000 shrines. The Iki Kagura is an ancient and sacred dance practiced only by Shinto priests and is an Intangible Folk Cultural Property of Japan. The sacred ceremony is carried out with the playing of flute and drum...

[Beauty of Japan Season 1] The Himeji Castle is regarded as one of the finest castles in Japan thanks to its preserved monumental white tower. Since the ancient times, many mysteries have been secretly passed on over generations. Why has it never been burned down? Why was it never used...

[Beauty of Japan Season 2] Barry Grossman, originally from the United States, has lived in Japan for 27 years. He is a professor at the University of Hachinohe, and is also a yoga instructor. What is the ultimate relaxation experience that Barry talks about? Through following him on his yoga...