[Craft Masters of Japan] Hikone Butsudan, or Buddhist altar, is traditional craftwork from the castle town of Hikone City, Shiga Prefecture. Its origins can be dated back to the Edo Period. There are seven steps in the creation process of the altars, which are conducted by the ‘Seven Masters’. Each...

[Beauty of Japan Season 1] 'NEXT5' is a team of 5 young Sake brewers from Akita city who stood up against the decrease of national Sake consumption. They are not only entrepreneurs but also physically use their own hands to brew their Sakes, while Sake makers generally rely on the...

[Colors in Japan]   During Japan's Edo period, the NabeshimaClan produced pottery known as "Nabeshimaware." Renowned for their intricate designs and vibrant colors, today, artisans in Okawauchiyama continue to uphold this centuries-old tradition, crafting exquisite pieces. Click here to preview this episode! Part of the "Colors in Japan" series!

[Beauty of Japan Season 2] Jennifer is a Shakuhachi (Japanese flute) master who originally comes from Texas. She says the beauty of the instrument lies in its ability to express nature. Birds singing and the sound of waves can all be expressed through Jennifer's shakuhachi. She mastered the ability to...