
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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Arita Ware Reborn -Beyond the Tradition of 400 years -
2018 25 minutesThe first porcelain in Japan was made in Arita-cho 400 years ago. The porcelain was named "Aritayaki". In the late 17th century Arita ware was exported to Europe, and its technicality and beauty were appreciated. The process goes through different phases such as molding the clay and coloring it. the...more details -
Amezaiku (sugar sculpture) -A young artist blowing new life into tradition-
2015 30 mins[Craft Masters of Japan] Asakusa District in Tokyo is a popular tourist destination. Here in this vibrant area lies the best candy shop in Japan. Shinri Tezuka is a young candy maker working in this shop, and his masterful creations are so delicate and beautiful that they are almost too...more details -
MAHOROBA ASUKA - Japan's Ancient Capital -
2023 52 minutesJapan’s capital 1400 years ago, Asuka is one of its oldest villages and a symbol of its intrinsic beauty. In recognition of its special history, a law was established to preserve the natural environment of the village. This documentary, filmed over the span of a year, captures Asuka’s beauty in...more details -
Manga Food Restaurant
2018 55 minThis series follows two fictional characters, Kenjiro Tabe, an office worker with a passion for food found in manga, and Chinatsu Yamamoto, his subordinate. Together, the pair visit real-life restaurants challenging chefs to recreate various meals featured in legendary gourmet mangas. From a monster-sized 20 cm x 20 cm steak...more details