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TRAVEL(JAPAN SERIES)
Paint It Black! A Calligrapher’s Challenge (Yamaguchi Prefecture)
2021 25 minutes
[Colors in Japan] Gasho Nishioka, a renowned “sho” (calligrapher) from KudamatsuCity, Yamaguchi Prefecture, is pushing the boundaries of traditional Japanese calligraphy. Known for using only black “sumi” ink, Nishioka seeks to innovate while preserving the timeless beauty of this ancient art form. Click here to preview the episode! Part of the "Colors in Japan" series!
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Nabeshima Ware, Favored Feudal Lords (Saga Prefecture)
2021 25 minutes
[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!
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Traditional Lacquerware – That Which Shines Beyond the Black (Akita Prefecture)
2021 25 minutes
[Colors in Japan] “Kawatsuralacquerware” is a traditional Japanese craft with a history dating back about 800 years. Against the background of that long tradition, four lacquer artisans are now trying to create new types of lacquerware with features based on their original ideas. Please click here to preview the program! Part of the "Colors in ...
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The Traditional Uses of “Red” (Kyoto)
2021 25 minutes
[Colors in Japan] “Kyobenirouge”, made from selected safflowers, has been a traditional craft and widely used throughout Kyoto City since ancient times. It is known for being very pleasing to the eye. Click here to preview this episode! Part of the "Colors in Japan" series!
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Narumi Shibori of Arimatsu-The Town Where Ai Sways in the Breeze (Aichi Prefecture)
2021 25 minutes
[Colors in Japan] The town of Arimatsuis renowned for its tie-dyed "noren" store curtains, crafted using traditional shibori techniques. We explore the passion and dedication of local artisans who continue to practice and innovate in the field of shibori. Click here to preview this episode! Part of the "Colors in Japan" series!
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A Soy Sauce Brewery in the Castle Town (Hyogo Prefecture)
2021 25 minutes
[Colors in Japan] The type of soy sauce called “usukuchi” (light soy sauce) is said to bring out the colors, aroma, and tastes of its ingredients but achieving its lighter color is no easy task. We focus on brewers in Tatsuno, Hyogo Prefecture who are putting their utmost enthusiasm into “usukuchi” production. Click here to ...
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Wooden Barrels of Tochigi -Time Etched by the Color of Old Bamboo (Tochigi Prefecture)
2021 25 minutes
[Colors in Japan] Tochigi City has a long history of producing wooden barrels for fermenting food. Despite the rise of plastic containers, one dedicated craftsman continues to make barrels using traditional techniques. The barrels are crafted from cedar heartwood and tied with local timber bamboo. Click here to preview this episode! Part of the "Colors ...
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Life in the World Heritage site Gokayamaduring the Winter (Toyama Prefecture)
2021 25 minutes
[Colors in Japan] Ainokura Gassho-zukuri is a World Heritage site in Toyama Prefecture's Gokayama region, known for its heavy snowfall. To endure these harsh winters, the village's people have preserved traditional wisdom and techniques, reflected in their unique thatched-roof houses. Click here to preview the program! Part of the "Colors in Japan" series!
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Meoto Iwa-Enchanted by the Rising Sun Miracle (Mie Prefecture)
2021 25 minutes
[Colors in Japan] MeotoIwa (The Married Couple Rocks), a famous rock formation in Ise City, Mie Prefecture, offers a unique natural spectacle during the summer solstice. We follow photographers who flock to the site to capture the awe-inspiring phenomenon of the sun rising over Mt. Fuji between the rocks. Click here to preview the program! ...
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Mikawa Fireworks -Large Flowers Blooming at Night (Aichi Prefecture)
2021 25 minutes
[Colors in Japan] Aichi Prefecture is a hub of fireworks manufacturing in Japan. Renowned since the Edo period, Mikawa fireworks have captivated audiences with their stunning displays. We explore the craftsmanship behind these pyrotechnic masterpieces, delving into the artisans' dedication to creating unforgettable fireworks experiences. Click here to preview the program! Part of the "Colors ...
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The Jewel of Toyama Bay to be Preserved for Future Generations (Toyama Prefecture)
2021 25 minutes
[Colores in Japan] “Shiroebi,” translucent shrimp harvested in Toyama Bay, are prized for their delicate beauty. Local fishermen formed the Toyama Bay Shiroebi Club to protect this resource. The club works to promote shiroebi nationwide and ensure its preservation for future generations. Click here to preview the program! Part of the "Colors in Japan" series!
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Superfood: Black Rice of Kawachino(Saga Prefecture)
2021 25 minutes
[Colors in Japan] Originating in Imari, Saga Prefecture, black rice has been cultivated for centuries. Renowned for its nutritional value and potential beauty benefits, this ancient grain continues to inspire culinary innovation. Click here to preview the program! Part of the "Colors in Japan" series!
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Colors in Japan
2021 25 min
Japan's landscape overflows with various colors from its four seasons. This array of rich "coloring" is presented in vivid 4K through the stories of traditional arts and crafts that symbolize the regions across the country from which they were born. Episode List (click title to preview): 1. Paint It Black! A Calligrapher's Challenge - Yamaguchi ...
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Idle Sky Journeys
2018 3 minutes 30 seconds
This short series features drone footage of castles and natural landscapes in Miyagi, while also providing local stories and facts about the scenery. We cover everything from footage of oceans, mountains, and man-made architectural masterpieces, in the attempt to introduce all of Miyagi’s charms!
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The Second Bridge of Shinminato Uchikawa- Imizu, Toyama Prefecture
2019 30 minutes
[Beauty of Japan Season 2] Stephen, originally from Hawaii, was entranced by the charms of Uchikawa and moved there from Tokyo to open his bar, the "BRDIGE・BAR". We follow Stephen's story as he attempts to become the second bridge that connects the Uchikawa community to the rest of the world! Part of "Beauty of Japan- ...
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The Real Last Samurai: Katori Shinto-ryu
2019 30 mins
[Beauty of Japan Season 2] The "Tenshin Shoden Katori Shinto-ryu" is the oldest martial arts style that exists in Japan. Not only is it extremely popular within Japan, but it also has 30 branches across the globe. In Narita City in Chiba Prefecture, there is a dojo (training hall) where many foreign residents gather to ...
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Rene’s Swimming Gems: the Nishiki Koi- Nagaoka, Niigata
2019 30 mins
[Beauty of Japan Season 2] The Nishiki Koi boasts a beauty that earns it its nickname, "the Swimming Gem". In Nagaoka City in Niigata, many of the koi fish bred there are sold to Western and Asian countries and attract the attention of Japanese koi fish lovers from all over the world. Rene is an ...
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The Eyes that Survey an Ever-Changing City- Shibuya, Tokyo
2019 30 mins
[Beauty of Japan Season 2] When asked where they would like to visit in Japan, the most popular answer that foreign tourists give is “Shibuya.” Yet with major developments planned, the site is about to change drastically. We shift our view to observe “Shibuya” from the perspective of foreigners and tourists in order to see ...
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Enchanted by the San’in- Daisen, Tottori Prefecture
2019 30 mins
[Beauty of Japan Season 2] San’in, considered to be a mythical home of Gods, is a sacred place where the natural landscapes of Japan prevail. Richard Pierce was enthralled by its charms and has been organizing tours and acting as a guide. In 2017, he even cooperated with the locals to open a Japanese-style guest ...
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Charmed by the Kindness of the Community – Izumo, Shimane Prefecture
2019 30 mins
[Beauty of Japan Season 2] Michelle married a Japanese man and moved to a beautiful nature-filled mountain village in Izumo, Shimane Prefecture. She believes that the true “beauty of Japan” lies in the kindness displayed by the people of her local community. We follow Michelle’s life within the village as she teaches children how to ...
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Rice Pasta that Makes the World Smile- Himeji, Hyogo Prefecture
2019 30 mins
[Beauty of Japan Season 2] Claudia was born in Florence, Italy, and currently runs a restaurant called “Pasta Sorriso” with her husband in Himeji, Hyogo Prefecture. In Italian, sorriso means “smile” and riso means “rice”. So “Pasta Sorriso” can be interpreted to mean “Rice Pasta that Makes the World Smile”. We take a look at ...
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Our Lives as Immigrants- Iiyama, Nagano Prefecture
2019 30 mins
[Beauty of Japan Season 2] An American and English couple have lived in Iiyama City for 3 years. They earn their living through teaching English at schools within the vicinity, but wish to become farmers instead. Their excitement expands as they map out their future lives growing safe and healthy vegetables and having a goat ...
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Wonderful Dreams in a Monochrome World- Toyama Prefecture
2018 30 mins
[Beauty of Japan Season 2] Jack Lee Randall is a shadow artist from the United States. He made the fateful decision to settle down in Toyama Prefecture after visiting there on one of his shows. His shadow performances evoke a sense of nostalgia in his spectators, and are full of curiosity and awe for the ...
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Yoga in Nature ~The Ultimate Healing Experience~ – Hachinohe, Aomori Prefecture
2018 30 mins
[Beauty of Japan Season 2] Barry Grossman, originally from the United States, has lived in Japan for 27 years. He is a professor at the University of Hachinohe, and is also a yoga instructor. What is the ultimate relaxation experience that Barry talks about? Through following him on his yoga expeditions, we uncover the natural ...
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The Reason I Work Here- Shinagawa, Tokyo
2018 30 mins
[Beauty of Japan Season 2] Yugo Matsumoto is an Englishman who owns a popular café in Shinagawa, Tokyo, where customers of all age groups stop by to spend their time. What are the reasons behind the café’s popularity? In this episode, we observe Japan through the eyes of an Englishman and attempt to introduce the ...
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The Iki Sea that Enchanted a Hawaiian Man- Iki, Nagasaki Prefecture
2018 30 mins
[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, and he promotes the various ...
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TASTE JAPAN
2019 30 mins
Watch as popular Taiwanese actor Figaro visits Aomori Prefecture and encounters the many delicious food products the prefecture has to offer. Along the way, he will draw inspiration from the local cuisine he tastes to create original recipes of his own. Throughout his trip, Figaro is touched by the heartfelt diligence of the local farmers ...
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PEACE NIPPON
2018 111 minutes
There are moments of breathtaking beauty that can only be seen once in a lifetime. Providing footage from 47 Prefectures (over 200 locations) in Japan and filmed over eight years, this film captures such moments in 4K. The hope is that this movie will inspire "people to know more about Japan and to fall further ...
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Beauty of Japan Series- Season 2
2018 30 mins
There are 2.5 million people from all over the world currently living in Japan. How did they end up there? What drew them to come to Japan in the first place? Or more importantly, what made them want to stay? In this series, we take a look at various non-Japanese residents living in different prefectures ...
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A young girl Wisteria dance- Arakawa ward, Tokyo
2018 30 mins
[Beauty of Japan Season 2] "Wisteria Maiden" is one of the most popular dance pieces in traditional Japanese dance (nihon buyo). Performing on the stage is 8 year-old Nona, who has a French father and a Japanese mother. She takes lessons at the Fujikawa style dance school headquarters in Minami Senju, Arakawa ward in Tokyo. ...
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Spellbinding Yotaka Festival- Tonami City, Toyama Prefecture
30 mins
[Beauty of Japan Season 2] Tonami City's Yotaka Festival is said to bring good harvests. Its show-stopping parade consists of 6-meter-tall red decorative paper lanterns, and its highlight is the great paper lantern fight. Fighting bravely but gracefully, it showcases the very moment in which the lanterns look the most beautiful. Nicholas, a French man ...
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A French man striving to enrich a village with forestry- Totsugawa, Nara Prefecture
30 mins
[Beauty of Japan Season 2] Totsugawa in Nara Prefecture is the largest village in Japan. Jolan settled in this village from France after he fell in love with its serenity and beauty. Using his expertise in European forestry, he works to revitalise the Japanese forests as well as the local community. This documentary follows his ...
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Professor in a Spiritual City- Ise City, Mie Prefecture
30 mins
[Beauty of Japan Season 2] The Kogakkan University, located in the holy city of Ise, offers programmes which teach students Japanese traditions and history based on Shintoism. This is where Christopher, an American Professor, gives his lectures. What are the main ideas he wants to teach students studying in this holy city? This documentary shows ...
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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 work, the camera introduces the ...
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Ogaki Festival seen through the viewfinder of Irene- Ogaki, Gifu Prefecture
30 mins
[Beauty of Japan Season 2] The Ogaki Festival is held in the samurai town of Ogaki and has a long history that dates back to the Edo period. Thirteen floats are paraded across town during the festival and are considered moving pieces of art. Decorated with minuscule carvings, gorgeous embroidered banners, silver, and mother-of-pearl inlays, ...
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The City where German Pottery Lives- Miyazaki Prefecture
30 mins
[Beauty of Japan Season 2] The pottery workshop "Bjorn" in Aoshima Island, Miyazaki City (Miyazaki Prefecture), is where the German potter, Bjorn, works every day on his creations. He first came to Japan when he was 19 years old, just to travel around the country. 30 years have passed since he began living in Miyazaki. ...
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Oshima and Jacques the Baker- Niihama, Ehime Prefecture
30 mins
[Beauty of Japan Season 2] Oshima is a small island on the Seto Inland Sea with a population of just 250 people. Swiss native, Jacques moved to the peaceful island with his wife Etsuko. He runs a small bakery and a farm on this remote island, enjoying a peaceful and productive life surrounded by nature. ...
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Tokoname Pottery, hoping to re-establish a long lost relationship- Tokoname City, Aichi Prefecture
30 mins
[Beauty of Japan Season 2] Tokoname pottery is one of Japan's six oldest stonewares. Chang from Shanghai settled in Tokoname after he was captivated by the beauty of Tokoname teapots. Now he runs a shop for Chinese tourists and he visits China for various exhibitions to promote the pottery. This documentary tells the history of ...
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Shakuhachi Flute and Texas- Okayama Prefecture
30 mins
[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 play the instrument while working ...
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The life in Kita-Shinano, Nagano Prefecture
30 mins
[Beauty of Japan Season 2] Kita-Shinano district in Nagano Prefecture is famous for its beautiful nature and four seasons. The district is home to many non-Japanese residents from all over the world. This documentary follows the lives of such foreign residents and details what they believe is the true beauty of Japan. Get ready to ...
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Craft Masters of Japan Series
2015 30 mins
This 12 episode series is a part of the "Of Japan Series" which introduces various cultural aspects from different prefectures in Japan. The "Craft Masters of Japan Series" focuses on artisans that live in Japan, their individual crafts, and also their hopes and dreams for the future. From heartwarming dolls, paintings, sugar sculptures, Japanese Katana, ...
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Shikekinu -Silk weaving from two types of silkworms-
2015 30 mins
[Craft Masters of Japan] In the city of Nanto, Toyama Prefecture, textile production has been an essential part of its history since the Sengoku Period, around the 16th century. Within this city, there is a factory called Matsui Weaving Industry, which specializes in the production of Shikekinu Silk. Shikekinu Silk is a textile that only ...
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Father and Son -Buddhist Statue Carving-
2015 30 mins
[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, and son, Rinkan Eba, study ...
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The Swordsmith -Kunimasa Matsuba to the new frontier-
2015 30 mins
[Craft Masters of Japan] Kunimasa Matsuba is a Japanese swordsmith who has received the prestigious excellence award ten times at the exhibition of newly made swords in Japan. His strong, muscular body has undergone years of training in the smothering heat which enables him to create beautiful swords that gleam brightly whenever the light hits ...
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Traditional Paper “Senkashi” -The 400-year-old custom-
2015 30 mins
[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 sheet of paper. In this ...
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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 precious to eat! Dazzlingly detailed, ...
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The World of Automata -Laughter x Automata x Challenge-
2015 30 mins
[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 smile. In this episode, we ...
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Yokohama Scarves- Harmony of Beauty and Skill-
2015 30 mins
[Craft Masters of Japan] Since the opening of its port, the silk industry has developed drastically within Yokohama City. Silk is a soft and delicate fabric, which requires special techniques for dyeing and drawing motifs. This documentary will focus on the traditional "Yokohama scarfs", which have a history of over 100 years. It will follow ...
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Nippon-ga -Taro Yamamoto x Akita Maiko-
2015 30 mins
[Craft Masters of Japan] Taro Yamamoto is a professor at the Akita University of Art, but also a young painter who uses traditional Japanese techniques to create paintings with a ‘modern’ and humorous twist to them. This new art style is called ‘Nippon-ga’, and has currently been attracting a lot of attention within Japan. In ...
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Ornamental Silk Apron for Sumo Wrestlers -Oozumo Kensho-Mawashi-
2015 30 mins
[Craft Masters of Japan] Hirokuni Ohno is one of the very few Hakata textile weavers left in the world and has a workshop in Kokura Town in Kitakyushu City. He creates ornamental silk aprons for Sumo wrestlers to wear in the ring. The apron is approximately 70 centimeters wide and over 7 meters long, and ...
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Partnership of “Seven Craft Masters” -Hikone Buddhist Altar-
2015 30 mins
[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 master is a specialist in ...
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Sendai Tansu (Sendai furniture) -Harmony of three skills-
2015 30 mins
[Craft Masters of Japan] The Sendai Tansu furniture was created around the end of Edo period (mid-19th century). Its fabrication process is based on 3 traditional techniques which were all inherited from the Edo period; ‘Sashimono (furnishing)’, ‘Urushi lacquer’, and ‘metal fitting’. Nowadays, the tradition is well harmonized with a modern touch, and it remains ...
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Hometown’s Original Scenery -World of Doll Art-
2015 30 mins
[Craft Masters of Japan] Mayumi Takahashi is a doll artist who started making dolls over 30 years ago. Her workshop is located in Iiyama City, Nagano Prefecture, which is known for its charming Japanese countryside. Inspired by the rural and rustic scenery around her, Takahashi's creations often allow people to feel a strong sense of ...
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Festivals of Japan Series- Season 2
2018 30 mins
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 fighting festivals, this program will ...
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Festivals of Japan Series- Season 1
2017 30 mins
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 shrines, and wonderful cherry blossoms, ...
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Toriou Festival -Fierce and Fiery Festival Fight-
2018 30 mins
[Festivals of Japan Season 2] The "Toriou Festival" of Imari City, Saga Prefecture dates back to the mid-to-late 14th century. It is said to have originated from the defeat of warrior Kikuchi Takeshige against Ashikaga. Fleeing to the Ozato Region, Takeshige trained to withstand fire, originating this fiery and dangerous festival tradition. As sparks fly ...
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Nada Fighting Festival
2018 30 mins
[Festivals of Japan Season 2] A grand scene ensues as mikoshi portable shrines batter each other in a display of strength and pride. The Nada Fighting Festival is held annually in Himeji City, Hyogo Prefecture, and is the largest festival among numerous "fight festivals" in Japan. Every year on October 14th and 15th, the men ...
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Nagasaki Kunchi -A Ride on the Nanbansen-
2018 30 mins
[Festivals of Japan Season 2] The "Nagasaki Kunchi" is a festival that holds a 380-year history. Dragons coil and children dance to the many performances, giving life and color to the festival stage. One such performance is the dynamic and flamboyant "Dozamachi Nanbansen". It is a reenactment of the heyday of ocean exploration when Spanish ...
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Omanto Festival -Land on This Horse-
2018 30 mins
[Festivals of Japan Season 2] The Omanto Festival of Aichi Prefecture is a much-loved festival passed down since the Edo period. The highlight of this festival is held at a circular run where young men display their courage by jumping onto horses traveling at 40 km/hour. The locals of this region call this "Uma ni ...
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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 struggling to adapt to the ...
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Yoshida Fire Festival -Japan’s 3 Major Unusual Festivals-
2018 30 mins
[Festivals of Japan Season 2] Bright flames rise from giant torches, staining the city and skies with their bright red color... The Yoshida Fire Festival is an Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property of Japan that signals the end of summer at Mount Fuji (a World Cultural Heritage.) This episode focuses on introducing the fourteen caretakers ...
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Jizo-bon Festival -Choraku Temple of the Valley-
2018 30 mins
[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 drums and children carrying lanterns ...
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Nebuta Festival -Nebuta Master Creator’s 365 days-
2018 30 mins
[Festivals of Japan Season 2] Every year between August 2nd and 7th, the dynamic Nebuta floats of Aomori Prefecture are paraded around the city at night, providing a colorful and exciting summer spectacle for all to enjoy. The city's pride, the Aomori Nebuta Festival, was recognized as an Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property of Japan ...
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Kiraigo -800 Years of Performing Hell Theater-
2018 30 mins
[Festivals of Japan Season 2] The stage is set in hell. Demons curse and berate the sinner who has committed a terrible crime. The only play in Japan ever to be set in hell, the "Kiraigo" of Yokoshibahikari Town, Chiba Prefecture, has had a history of 800 years. Yet despite its impressive history, the small ...
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Takaoka Mikuruma-yama Festival -Turning the Wheels of Tradition-
2018 30 mins
[Festivals of Japan Season 2] The Takaoka Mikuruma-yama Festival in Toyama Prefecture was registered as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Asset in December 2016. With the creaking sounds of the turning wheels, the seven lavish floats make their way along the same route they have gone since ancient times, pushed onwards by the people who love ...
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Kintaikyo Bridge Festival -A Step Back in Time-
2018 30 mins
[Festivals of Japan Season 2] Kintaikyo is one of the three most famous bridges in Japan. Located in Iwakuni City, Yamaguchi Prefecture, the bridge provides the stage for the annual Kintaikyo Bridge Festival in spring. Welcoming its 40th time, the festival showcases a colorful reenactment of feudal lords returning from the Edo capital with their ...
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Mikoji -Jisa, Anesa, and a 19-year-old Spring-
2018 30 mins
[Festivals of Japan Season 2] The "Mikoji Dance" is a 150-year-old dance performed during the Taromaru Shuuraku Spring Festival in Nagaoka City, Niigata Prefecture. In this dance, the sitting doll of an old man and the standing doll of a young woman comically dance to the accompaniment of vibrant drums, flutes, and singing. They are ...
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Onyudo -Japan’s Largest Mechanical Doll-
2017 30 mins
[Festivals of Japan Season 1] The "Onyudo", the largest mechanical doll in Japan, is the symbol of Yokkaichi City in Mie Prefecture. Every year at the Yokkaichi Festival in August, the Onyudo entertains many people with its humorous and silly movements. Placed on a large float, its gigantic body sways as its neck, 3 meters ...
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Toyohama Sea Bream Festival -Japan’s Bizarre Festival-
2017 30 mins
[Festivals of Japan Season 1] With energetic chants, a giant sea bream is towed by the excited townspeople of Toyohama, Aichi Prefecture. Originally a festival held to bless maritime safety and an abundant catch, it provides a unique spectacle for onlookers to enjoy. Five in total, the gigantic seabreams are made of bamboo, wood, and ...
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Ofune Festival -Parishioners Who Support the Festivals-
2017 30 mins
[Festivals of Japan Season 1] The Ofune Festival is held at the Suwa Taisha (Suwa Grand Shrine) in Nagano Prefecture every fall. During the Senzasai in spring, the sacred dolls of the old man and woman are carried from the Fall Shrine to the Spring Shrine. However, in the Ofune Festival -six months after this ...
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Daisen Miyuki -Ancient Dynasty Picture Scroll Revived at Mt. Daisen-
2017 30 mins
[Festivals of Japan Season 1] Every three years, a festival is held at Daisen-ji, a temple devoted to worshipping Mount Daisen. Participants walk about 500 meters in a procession dressed in costumes of old and pray for good fortune. Set amidst the wonderful scenery of the magnificent Mount Daisen, this episode will detail the procession ...
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Hikiyama Children’s Kabuki -Cultured Entertainment for Common Folk-
2017 30 mins
[Festivals of Japan Season 1] The Hikiyama Children's Kabuki in Komatsu City, Ishikawa Prefecture, has a history of over 250 years. However, with the recent decline in birthrates and an increasing aging population, its survival has been put under threat. Amidst this problem, the children of Komatsu City try their best to put on a ...
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The Thousand Cherry Blossom Trees of Eboshiyama Park
2017 30 mins
[Festivals of Japan Season 1] Akayu Hot Spring in Yamagata Prefecture lost much of its bustling energy due to large fires that occurred in the late 1800s. Wishing for the recovery of their city, local volunteers created Eboshiyama Park. Later, as vitality slowly began to return to the city through the efforts of the volunteers, ...
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Handa Floats Festival -The Pride of the People-
2017 30 mins
[Festivals of Japan Season 1] In the spring festival of Handa City, Aichi Prefecture, a total of 31 floats are pulled through 10 districts. Once every five years, the Handa Floats Festival sees the gathering of all 31 floats in one place, vastly entertaining its large crowd of onlookers. Following the people preparing for the ...
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The Mooka Steam Locomotive, Cherry Blossom, and Rape Blossom Highway
2017 30 mins
[Festivals of Japan Season 1] Mooka, in Tochigi Prefecture, is a city that prides itself on its steam locomotive, cherry blossoms, and rape blossoms. Within the city, there is an area called "Sakuramachi," where 1,000 cherry blossom trees line the railway line. Every spring, the steam locomotive runs through a carpet of cherry and rape ...
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Hitachi Furyumono -Masterful Art of the Common People-
2017 30 mins
[Festivals of Japan Season 1] The Hitachi Furyumono is an important tangible and intangible folk cultural property of Japan, recognized as one of UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Assets in 2009. Originating from the Edo Period when the parishioners of Kamine Shrine dedicated floats, the colorful float carrying dancing mechanical dolls are the highlight of the festival. ...
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The Namahage Sedo Festival -Oga Peninsula-
2017 30 mins
[Festivals of Japan Season 1] The Namahage of Akita is an Intangible Folk Cultural Property of Japan that is both extremely popular and well-recognized. One of the three largest festivals in Japan, the "Namahage Sedo Festival" is a combination of this "Namahage" and local shrine festivities. This episode describes the different events of this festival, ...
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Hachinohe Enburi -The Festival to Beckon Spring-
2017 30 mins
[Festivals of Japan Season 1] The Hachinohe Enburi is a traditional festival that takes place in the southern region of Aomori Prefecture. It's held to bring forth good harvests and to welcome the coming of spring. Dancers called tayu wear headdresses made in the shape of horse heads and shake their heads wildly while expressing ...
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Daidai Kagura -The Ritual Dance of Iki, the Island of the Gods-
2017 30 mins
[Festivals of Japan Season 1] Iki Island, in Nagasaki Prefecture, has about 1,000 shrines. The Iki Kagura is an ancient and sacred dance practiced only by Shinto priests and is an Intangible Folk Cultural Property of Japan. The sacred ceremony is carried out with the playing of flute and drum accompanied by dance. Every year ...
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World Heritage OKINOSHIMA
45 minutes
This is a new program about the sacred island of Okinoshima, situated between the Japanese archipelago and the Korean peninsula. It has attracted the devotion of the local population in the Munakata region, who possessed advanced nautical skills. Large-scale rituals utilizing an enormous quantity of precious votive offerings were conducted on the island to pray for safe ocean voyages from the 4th to the 9th century, during a period when import and export occurred frequently in East Asia. Ritual sites bearing witness to the successive phases of ancient rituals that chronicle the formation of indigenous beliefs in Japan have survived to the present almost intact. Okinoshima is an object of worship, and has been protected by having limited access to the island.
Available in 4K and 8K.
--> This is a new program about the sacred island of Okinoshima, situated between the Japanese archipelago and the Korean peninsula. It has attracted the devotion of the local population in the Munakata region, who possessed advanced nautical skills. Large-scale rituals utilizing an enormous quantity of precious votive offerings were conducted on the island to pray ...
Hungry Hoppers – Pigging out around Japan
2010 24 mins
This crazy and entertaining food show hosted by Yo Oizumi, a Japanese rising actor/star, follows three comedic guys known as the "Piggy Family" as they travel around Japan seeking out the local hidden delicacies that Japan's world-renowned cuisine has to offer. Watch as the guys travel in their minivan, named "Onigiri Go," from town to ...
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‘Beauty of Japan’ series
2014 30 mins
List of programs in the 'Beauty of Japan' series: The Castle town where Kingyo Goldfish swim (Yamatokoriyama city, Nara Pref.) Art and excellence of Craftsmanships (Katsushika, Tokyo) Okada village's proud pure Cotton (Chita city, Aichi Pref.) The Secrets of the Village with Japan's longest living population (Takayama city, Nagano Pref.) Traditional home dishes from the ...
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Living together with the God of Wetland: the Red-crowned Crane Kushiro city, Hokkaido Pref.
2014 30mins
‘Tanchozuru’, or red-crowned cranes, are designated as a special national monument which are seen in Kushiro wetland. In the Ainu language, they refer to this elegant and graceful bird as the 'sarurun kamuy' (god of wetland). The camera follows those working to preserve the environment, and who feed the cranes during the bitter cold winter, ...
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NEXT5: the future of Sake makers Akita city, Akita Pref.
2014 30mins
'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 'Touji' (Sake artisans). The camera follows their collaborative project to ...
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Kirikane Buddhist paintings Miura city, Kanagawa Pref.
2014 30mins
Kirikane is a decorative technique used for Buddhist statues and paintings. It requires high skills of cutting layers of gold leaves as thin as a hair, and placing them delicately onto Buddhist statues or paintings to create motifs. Chika Hasegawa is a young artist in Kirikane who has a workshop in Miura city, Kanagawa prefecture. ...
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Prayer of the Tenshudo Nagasaki city, Nagasaki Pref.
2014 30mins
Tenshudo (House of the Lord) is the oldest Roman Catholic church in Japan. Its picturesque location surrounded by beautiful nature is known as a tourist spot in Nagasaki city. The church has been a witness of cultural exchanges with western countries and religious history for more than 450 years. This documentary focuses on the architectural ...
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Himeji Castle: The Secret history Himeji city, Hyogo Pref.
2014 30mins
The Himeji Castle is regarded as one of the finest castles in Japan thanks to its preserved monumental white tower. Since the ancient times, many mysteries have been secretly passed on over generations. Why has it never been burned down? Why was it never used in a war? What are its building structure and tricks? ...
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Aigi Tunnels: The restoration of an industrial treasure Kasugai city, Aichi Pref.
2014 30mins
The Aigi Tunnels were constructed for the national railway between Aichi prefecture and Gifu prefecture back in the Meiji period (early 19th Century) and had been abandoned for many years. Those forgotten tunnels have been beautifully restored by supporters and are now designated as part of Japan's Heritage of Industrial Modernization. During spring and autumn's ...
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Yūki Tsumugi: The worldly recognised silk textile Yūki city, Ibaraki Pref.
2014 30mins
“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 to the emperor since the Nara period (8th century). Twenty ...
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Traditional home dishes from the Gastronomic cityHakata city, Fukuoka Pref.
2014 30mins
“Gameni stew", “Mizutaki hot-pot” and “Hakata Zoni stew” are some of the traditional dishes from the gastronomic city of Fukuoka. This documentary focuses on the regional cuisines, which have been passed on generations by Hakatakko (Hakata local people) who are known for their high-spirited characters. It also talks about the recipes, and the history behind ...
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The Secrets of the Village with Japan’s longest living population Takayama city, Nagano Pref.
2014 30mins
Nagano prefecture has the longest living population in Japan. Particularly this little village of Takayama is known as “the anti-aging village”. The village, with merely 8000 residents, is blessed with beautiful nature and climate. Preserving the healthy life and culture, it has been recognised as one of the Biosphere Reserves (Eco park) by the UNESCO. ...
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Okada village’s proud pure CottonChita city, Aichi Pref.
2014 30mins
Sarashi (untreated) cotton fabric can be used in many ways. Since the early time of the Edo period, Chita Sarahi, produced in Okada village, in Chita city, has been sold in Edo, and it resulted to become the biggest cotton-weaving city. The manufacturers have now declined, however, the local residents still weave cotton for home ...
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Art and excellence of Craftsmanships Katsushika, Tokyo
2015 30mins
Katsushika ward in downtown Tokyo is one of a few cities where many craftsmen known as “Shokunins” still exist. Many of them work with skills used since the Edo or Meiji periods (late 19th century). The traditional crafts that they create through careful study of materials, experiences, and techniques are highly valued across the nation. ...
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The Castle town where Kingyo Goldfish swim Yamato koriyama city, Nara Pref.
2014 30mins
Kingyosukui, “goldfish scooping”, is one of the typical games often seen in summer festivals across Japan. The history of goldfish production in Yamato Koriyama city dates back to the mid-Edo period when the Yamato koriyama clansmen resided in their castle town. It is one of the three largest productions in Japan. The town has been ...
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Traditional Festivals of Japan
2009 55 mins
Shrines and temples like Ise Jingu Shrine with a history of 2000 years are carefully preserved all over Japan. Traditional cultural festivals are held all over the country that take place in these very special shrines and temples. Five of these famous festivals have been captured on camera and each program reports the traditional culture ...
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