
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.
Click here to preview this program!-
Call Me Dad - In Search of a Treatment for Rett Syndrome -
2020 55 minutesThis documentary follows Tetsuji Tanioka over a period of 3 years, as he cares for his daughter with Rett Syndrome. A rare neurological refractory disease that occurs almost exclusively in females, the condition leads to regression in physical and linguistic ability. Worldwide, only one in fifteen thousand are afflicted and...more details -
On Stage
2022 2024 World Media Festivals Gold The public theater dance company “Noism Company Niigata,” the only of its kind in Japan, calls the city of Niigata home. The director of “Noism,” Jo Kanamori, is a performer and choreographer with global acclaim. With a career spanning 16 years, for the first time,...more details -
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 -
The 40th Otsuna Festival -Invigorating a Community-
2018 30 mins[Festivals of Japan Season 2] Half-naked men pull on a giant white rope. Eighty meters long and about a ton in weight, the rope is the central focus of the Tosa City Otsuna Festival. Originally an Edo Period tradition, the festival was brought back by people hoping to energize a community...more details