This is the second season of the Festivals of Japan Series, which introduces various festivals around Japan. In this season, we will explore the festivals themselves, their histories, and the people responsible for preserving, cherishing, and passing on their traditions. From ancient processions, giant paper floats, fire festivals, and even...

[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,...

[Craft Masters of Japan] Automata are Western mechanical dolls. Kazuaki Harada is one of the very few automata artisans living in Japan. However, he has been gathering steady attention and fame worldwide with his unique creations. Harada's automata are very comical and alluring and manage to make people laugh and...

[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...