
Zuigan-ji (2016)
Majestic Zuigan-ji Temple in northeast Japan is a national cultural treasure. Completed 400 years ago by the feudal lord of the region, Date Masamune, it’s famous as a lavish and glorious example of the culture of the Azuchi-Momoyama period (mid-1500s to 1600). The main hall is decorated with beautiful period-style art created by painters and master craftsmen summoned from Kyoto. With ground subsidence now causing its pillars to tilt, Zuigan-ji has been undergoing comprehensive repairs and restorations since 2009, called "the great Heisei restoration." An essential consideration when repairing Japanese cultural properties is that old and weathered parts must not be replaced and existing original materials must be reused to the greatest possible extent. The restoration's greatest challenge was to reinforce the structure to protect against earthquakes. This program follows the Japanese engineers and craftsmen, striving to clear the hurdle with their conviction and ideas, to preserve the national treasure.
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Nabeshima Ware, Favored Feudal Lords (Saga Prefecture)
2021 25 minutes[Colors in Japan] During Japan's Edo period, the NabeshimaClan produced pottery known as "Nabeshimaware." Renowned for their intricate designs and vibrant colors, today, artisans in Okawauchiyama continue to uphold this centuries-old tradition, crafting exquisite pieces. Click here to preview this episode! Part of the "Colors in Japan" series!more details -
NEXT5: the future of Sake makers Akita city, Akita Pref.
2014 30mins'NEXT5' is a team of 5 young Sake brewers from Akita city who stood up against the decrease of national Sake consumption. They are not only entrepreneurs but also physically use their own hands to brew their Sakes, while Sake makers generally rely on the 'Touji' (Sake artisans). The camera...more details -
Charmed by the Kindness of the Community - Izumo, Shimane Prefecture
2019 30 mins[Beauty of Japan Season 2] Michelle married a Japanese man and moved to a beautiful nature-filled mountain village in Izumo, Shimane Prefecture. She believes that the true “beauty of Japan” lies in the kindness displayed by the people of her local community. We follow Michelle’s life within the village as...more details -
Amezaiku (sugar sculpture) -A young artist blowing new life into tradition-
2015 30 mins[Craft Masters of Japan] Asakusa District in Tokyo is a popular tourist destination. Here in this vibrant area lies the best candy shop in Japan. Shinri Tezuka is a young candy maker working in this shop, and his masterful creations are so delicate and beautiful that they are almost too...more details