
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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Ofune Festival -Parishioners Who Support the Festivals-
2017 30 mins[Festivals of Japan Season 1] The Ofune Festival is held at the Suwa Taisha (Suwa Grand Shrine) in Nagano Prefecture every fall. During the Senzasai in spring, the sacred dolls of the old man and woman are carried from the Fall Shrine to the Spring Shrine. However, in the Ofune...more details -
Meoto Iwa-Enchanted by the Rising Sun Miracle (Mie Prefecture)
2021 25 minutes[Colors in Japan] MeotoIwa (The Married Couple Rocks), a famous rock formation in Ise City, Mie Prefecture, offers a unique natural spectacle during the summer solstice. We follow photographers who flock to the site to capture the awe-inspiring phenomenon of the sun rising over Mt. Fuji between the rocks. Click...more details -
Yūki Tsumugi: The worldly recognised silk textile Yūki city, Ibaraki Pref.
2014 30mins[Beauty of Japan Season 1] “Yuki Tsumugi textile” is designated as one of the Important Intangible Cultural Properties in Japan and is also listed on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO. Its origin, the fine 'Ashi Ginu silk' is said to have been offered...more details -
Yoga in Nature ~The Ultimate Healing Experience~ - Hachinohe, Aomori Prefecture
2018 30 mins[Beauty of Japan Season 2] Barry Grossman, originally from the United States, has lived in Japan for 27 years. He is a professor at the University of Hachinohe, and is also a yoga instructor. What is the ultimate relaxation experience that Barry talks about? Through following him on his yoga...more details