
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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Finding Dad
Award of Excellence at the Media Arts Festival. Jiro, a chef, is engaged to Satoko, a kindergarten teacher. Jiro has not seen his father for 11 years, since his parents got a divorce. Jiro decides to send a wedding invitation to his father, but when his mother finds out, she...more details -
The Swordsmith -Kunimasa Matsuba to the new frontier-
2015 30 mins[Craft Masters of Japan] Kunimasa Matsuba is a Japanese swordsmith who has received the prestigious excellence award ten times at the exhibition of newly made swords in Japan. His strong, muscular body has undergone years of training in the smothering heat which enables him to create beautiful swords that gleam...more details -
Castle in the Sky and Granddad's Cherry Tree
2021 60 minutesThe Takeda Castle ruins in Asago City are known as the “Castle in the Sky” as they are located on a mountain top and look to be floating in the sky. Wild cherry trees growing on the mountain slope are another symbol of the city. The trees, preserved over generations,...more details -
Live Life Laughing - A Place with Purpose -
2025 51 minutesCare Support Shiho was founded in 2021 by Shioko Se, who lives with ALS. As a resident herself, Shioko established the group home to provide a high level of medical care and a comfortable living environment with 24-hour support. She is deeply involved in the daily lives of the residents...more details