[Beauty of Japan Season 2] There are more than 30 beaches on the Iki Islands in Nagasaki Prefecture. Matthew, who was born in the United States, claims that its beaches are just as beautiful as those in Hawaii. His job is to assist foreign artists and visitors on the island,...

[Festivals of Japan Season 2] Jizo-bon is a festival that celebrates the Jizo Bosatsu, or "Kshitigarbha," and takes place in the Kinki Region of Japan. The Jizo-bon culture of Choraku Temple in Kakogawa City, Hyogo Prefecture, has been passed down from the Edo Period. In the evening, men carrying large...

This is the first season of the Festivals of Japan Series, which introduces various festivals around Japan. In this 12 episode season, we will explore the festivals themselves, their histories, and the people responsible for preserving, cherishing, and passing on their traditions. From giant sea bream floats, children`s kabuki, portable...

[Craft Masters of Japan] The "Senkashi" washi paper is one of Japan's Intangible Cultural Treasures. Dating back to the Edo Period, its technique has been passed down for over 400 years. We take a look at Takashi Kikuchi, who is a washi maker specializing in this unique and historically rich...