
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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Angel, Living in a Loyal Dog's Home- Odate, Akita Prefecture
30 mins[Beauty of Japan Season 2] The Akita dog breed is known for its cuteness, dignity, and for its loyalty to its owner (as described in the famous story of "Hachiko"). Angel, an Israeli living in Odate City, became a breeder after he was charmed by the Akita breed. Through his...more details -
Homecoming Songs
2023 30 minWhat would you sing if you gave a concert in your old school music room? Homecoming Songs is a heartfelt docuseries that follows artists back to their hometowns—where dreams began and memories were made. With a “welcome home notebook” in hand, they revisit formative places, reconnect with old classmates, and...more details -
Onyudo -Japan's Largest Mechanical Doll-
2017 30 mins[Festivals of Japan Season 1] The "Onyudo", the largest mechanical doll in Japan, is the symbol of Yokkaichi City in Mie Prefecture. Every year at the Yokkaichi Festival in August, the Onyudo entertains many people with its humorous and silly movements. Placed on a large float, its gigantic body sways...more details -
Tasha Tudor
2017 105 minutesTasha Tudor is one of America’s best author-illustrators of children’s literature. This documentary film features a humorous lifestyle full of flowers, animals, and heart-warming words for the future. The "mother of the slow life" provides you with a key to fully enjoying your life. Click here to preview the program!more details