
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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Mikawa Fireworks -Large Flowers Blooming at Night (Aichi Prefecture)
2021 25 minutes[Colors in Japan] Aichi Prefecture is a hub of fireworks manufacturing in Japan. Renowned since the Edo period, Mikawa fireworks have captivated audiences with their stunning displays. We explore the craftsmanship behind these pyrotechnic masterpieces, delving into the artisans' dedication to creating unforgettable fireworks experiences. Click here to preview the...more details -
Father and Son -Buddhist Statue Carving-
2015 30 mins[Craft Masters of Japan] The Buddhist statue carvings of Nagakute, Aichi Prefecture, are elaborately decorative and have been passed down for many generations. The Eba Buddha Wooden Sculpture Studio practices this crafting tradition and is owned by a father and son sculpting duo. Under the same roof, father Rinzou Eba,...more details -
A young girl Wisteria dance- Arakawa ward, Tokyo
2018 30 mins[Beauty of Japan Season 2] "Wisteria Maiden" is one of the most popular dance pieces in traditional Japanese dance (nihon buyo). Performing on the stage is 8 year-old Nona, who has a French father and a Japanese mother. She takes lessons at the Fujikawa style dance school headquarters in Minami...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