
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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Yokohama Scarves- Harmony of Beauty and Skill-
2015 30 mins[Craft Masters of Japan] Since the opening of its port, the silk industry has developed drastically within Yokohama City. Silk is a soft and delicate fabric, which requires special techniques for dyeing and drawing motifs. This documentary will focus on the traditional "Yokohama scarfs", which have a history of over...more details -
Aigi Tunnels: The restoration of an industrial treasure Kasugai city, Aichi Pref.
2014 30mins[Beauty of Japan Season 1] The Aigi Tunnels were constructed for the national railway between Aichi prefecture and Gifu prefecture back in the Meiji period (early 19th Century) and had been abandoned for many years. Those forgotten tunnels have been beautifully restored by supporters and are now designated as part...more details -
Hitachi Furyumono -Masterful Art of the Common People-
2017 30 mins[Festivals of Japan Season 1] The Hitachi Furyumono is an important tangible and intangible folk cultural property of Japan, recognized as one of UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Assets in 2009. Originating from the Edo Period when the parishioners of Kamine Shrine dedicated floats, the colorful float carrying dancing mechanical dolls are...more details -
The Sake that Bonds - "Unite 311" A Sake of Gratitude
2021 46 minutesNiizawa Sake Brewery and its long history were on the verge of ending after its facilities were destroyed in the Great Tohoku Earthquake of March 2011. At that time, though, workers from other breweries across Japan rushed to their aid. This documentary follows the owner and workers of Niizawa Sake...more details