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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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A New Normal, A New Way — What happens when a theatrical team tries to revive a hot springs inn?
2020 24 mins
The president of an IT company purchased a Japanese hot springs inn that went bankrupt in January 2020. Unfortunately, its reopening was postponed because of the COVID-19 pandemic. The new owner was also struggling to conceptualize a selling point to promote the inn. He recruited the creative talents of the theater world whose theater jobs ...
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Exploring Good Sake
2018 3 minutes
“There is good sake in Miyagi.” In this program, we journey to different wineries and breweries to introduce everything about the sake made in Miyagi. The program covers the popular brands, seasonal tastes, as well as how best to drink sake. Additionally, we introduce the best appetizers recommended by the brewers themselves, which you can ...
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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
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- Season 2"!
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The Real Last Samurai: Katori Shinto-ryu
2019 30 mins
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 train. What attracted them to ...
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Rene’s Swimming Gems: the Nishiki Koi- Nagaoka, Niigata
2019 30 mins
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 American who has been trading ...
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The Eyes that Survey an Ever-Changing City- Shibuya, Tokyo
2019 30 mins
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 how they view this ever-changing ...
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Enchanted by the San’in- Daisen, Tottori Prefecture
2019 30 mins
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 house there. We follow Richard ...
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Charmed by the Kindness of the Community – Izumo, Shimane Prefecture
2019 30 mins
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 speak English and cherishes the ...
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Rice Pasta that Makes the World Smile- Himeji, Hyogo Prefecture
2019 30 mins
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 how the rice from Himeji ...
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Our Lives as Immigrants- Iiyama, Nagano Prefecture
2019 30 mins
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 in the garden. But their ...
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Wonderful Dreams in a Monochrome World- Toyama Prefecture
2018 30 mins
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 Japanese traditions and cultures that ...
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Yoga in Nature ~The Ultimate Healing Experience~ – Hachinohe, Aomori Prefecture
2018 30 mins
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 beauty of Hachinohe, as well ...
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The Reason I Work Here- Shinagawa, Tokyo
2018 30 mins
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 charms of Shinagawa. Part of ...
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The Iki Sea that Enchanted a Hawaiian Man- Iki, Nagasaki Prefecture
2018 30 mins
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 wonders Iki has to offer. ...
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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
"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. Her mother is a much ...
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Spellbinding Yotaka Festival- Tonami City, Toyama Prefecture
30 mins
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 living in this region, was ...
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A French man striving to enrich a village with forestry- Totsugawa, Nara Prefecture
30 mins
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 efforts to enrich the forests ...
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Professor in a Spiritual City- Ise City, Mie Prefecture
30 mins
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 his day-to-day challenges, while also ...
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Angel, Living in a Loyal Dog’s Home- Odate, Akita Prefecture
30 mins
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 charms of Akita dogs and ...
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Ogaki Festival seen through the viewfinder of Irene- Ogaki, Gifu Prefecture
30 mins
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, they truly are a marvelous ...
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The City where German Pottery Lives- Miyazaki Prefecture
30 mins
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. This documentary depicts his love ...
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Oshima and Jacques the Baker- Niihama, Ehime Prefecture
30 mins
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. In this episode, we take ...
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Tokoname Pottery, hoping to re-establish a long lost relationship- Tokoname City, Aichi Prefecture
30 mins
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 Tokoname pottery originally from China, ...
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Shakuhachi Flute and Texas- Okayama Prefecture
30 mins
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 as a farmer and being ...
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The life in Kita-Shinano, Nagano Prefecture
30 mins
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 fall in love with the ...
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Japanese sweets (Wagashi)- Yokkaichi City, Mie Prefecture
30 mins
"Each moment, once in a life time." Charlotte became a Wagashi Japanese sweets maker after she was struck by the "work of art" she saw on display at Japan Week in France. Through living in Japan, she has discovered how closely Japanese sweets are interlaced in people's lives. For her, the beauty of Wagashi sweets ...
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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
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 uses rare silk threads ...
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Father and Son -Buddhist Statue Carving-
2015 30 mins
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 their shared craft with ...
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The Swordsmith -Kunimasa Matsuba to the new frontier-
2015 30 mins
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 them. We follow Matsuba's ...
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Traditional Paper “Senkashi” -The 400-year-old custom-
2015 30 mins
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 episode, we will focus ...
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Amezaiku (sugar sculpture) -A young artist blowing new life into tradition-
2015 30 mins
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, his sugar sculptures look ...
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The World of Automata -Laughter x Automata x Challenge-
2015 30 mins
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 will focus on his ...
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Yokohama Scarves- Harmony of Beauty and Skill-
2015 30 mins
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 the workers of a ...
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Nippon-ga -Taro Yamamoto x Akita Maiko-
2015 30 mins
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 this documentary, he will ...
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Ornamental Silk Apron for Sumo Wrestlers -Oozumo Kensho-Mawashi-
2015 30 mins
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 the silk fabric has ...
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Partnership of “Seven Craft Masters” -Hikone Buddhist Altar-
2015 30 mins
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 one particular skill, and ...
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Sendai Tansu (Sendai furniture) -Harmony of three skills-
2015 30 mins
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 a well-esteemed handicraft. In ...
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Hometown’s Original Scenery -World of Doll Art-
2015 30 mins
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 nostalgia and longing for ...
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Amazing Cruises Around the World
2009 25 min
This program showcases trips on luxury cruise liners, taking you on sea adventures with beautiful scenery and maximum relaxation! Escape the troubles of your daily life and hop on to see amazing places all over the world! Experience scenes of beauty and wonder that will simply leave you begging for more!
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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
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 everywhere, the shrine parishioners fight ...
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Nada Fighting Festival
2018 30 mins
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 who live for this fall ...
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Nagasaki Kunchi -A Ride on the Nanbansen-
2018 30 mins
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 and Portuguese visitors brought many ...
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Omanto Festival -Land on This Horse-
2018 30 mins
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 tomaru", which means to grab ...
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The 40th Otsuna Festival -Invigorating a Community-
2018 30 mins
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 increasingly commercial economy around them. ...
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Yoshida Fire Festival -Japan’s 3 Major Unusual Festivals-
2018 30 mins
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 who work to make this ...
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Jizo-bon Festival -Choraku Temple of the Valley-
2018 30 mins
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 walk the town, creating a ...
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Nebuta Festival -Nebuta Master Creator’s 365 days-
2018 30 mins
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 in 2006 and is an ...
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Kiraigo -800 Years of Performing Hell Theater-
2018 30 mins
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 village entrusted with maintaining its ...
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Takaoka Mikuruma-yama Festival -Turning the Wheels of Tradition-
2018 30 mins
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 and cherish them. This episode ...
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Kintaikyo Bridge Festival -A Step Back in Time-
2018 30 mins
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 vassals, and many other traditional ...
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Mikoji -Jisa, Anesa, and a 19-year-old Spring-
2018 30 mins
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 controlled by men hidden behind ...
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Onyudo -Japan’s Largest Mechanical Doll-
2017 30 mins
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 long when stretched out, rocks ...
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Toyohama Sea Bream Festival -Japan’s Bizarre Festival-
2017 30 mins
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 white cotton fabric, and some ...
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Ofune Festival -Parishioners Who Support the Festivals-
2017 30 mins
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 Senzasai- the dolls are carried ...
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Daisen Miyuki -Ancient Dynasty Picture Scroll Revived at Mt. Daisen-
2017 30 mins
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 itself, behind-the-scene details, as well ...
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Hikiyama Children’s Kabuki -Cultured Entertainment for Common Folk-
2017 30 mins
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 great performance by practicing very ...
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The Thousand Cherry Blossom Trees of Eboshiyama Park
2017 30 mins
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, the park was chosen as ...
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Handa Floats Festival -The Pride of the People-
2017 30 mins
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 2017 fall festival, take a ...
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The Mooka Steam Locomotive, Cherry Blossom, and Rape Blossom Highway
2017 30 mins
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 blossom petals, and the Sakuramachi ...
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Hitachi Furyumono -Masterful Art of the Common People-
2017 30 mins
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. This episode takes a look ...
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The Namahage Sedo Festival -Oga Peninsula-
2017 30 mins
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, which include the reenactment of ...
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Hachinohe Enburi -The Festival to Beckon Spring-
2017 30 mins
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 the acts of planting and ...
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Daidai Kagura -The Ritual Dance of Iki, the Island of the Gods-
2017 30 mins
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 on the 20th of December, ...
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Famous Mountains of Japan
2016 30 mins
Most recently seen in the "yama-girl" (mountain girl) boom in Japan, the popularity of hiking seems to be on the rise, capturing the hearts of older and younger generations alike. Amid this new wave of interest, there is a shift in the understanding of the term "hiking." Instead of simply aiming for the peak, Japanese ...
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Let’s Have Fun!
2018 60 mins
This program is an entertaining and informative travel show, that introduces various "good trips" people can enjoy all around Japan. From wonderful leisure spots, views, and traditional lodgings, to local cuisine, it's all here! Information on seasonal activities and food is also provided, and the fun and energetic hosts even interview tourism experts and local store owners ...
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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 ...
Hey TAXI! Teach Me about Cuisine!
30 minutes
Go around Kyushu and find a powerful helper to introduce you to delicious meals around town. Taxi drivers usually know a lot about local entertainment and are willing to share inside knowledge with you. This is a non-rehearsed program where we walk around asking Taxi drivers to recommend different delicious restaurants according to the theme.
--> Go around Kyushu and find a powerful helper to introduce you to delicious meals around town. Taxi drivers usually know a lot about local entertainment and are willing to share inside knowledge with you. This is a non-rehearsed program where we walk around asking Taxi drivers to recommend different delicious restaurants according to the theme.
Food of Japan Season.2
2017 25 minutes
'Food of Japan' is produced by regional cable stations across the country using their deep connections in communities to reveal local treasures. The theme of this series is food culture. In this series, we learn about snacks that Ninjas used to eat, how western food began in Japan, and much more! List of episodes in ...
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Food of Japan Season.1
2016 30 minutes
Following the success of "Beauty of Japan", "Food of Japan" not only introduces the regional delicacies of Japan but also attempts to uncover the secrets of the unique food cultures from local experts. In this series, we learn everything from the secret to achieving the number one strawberry production in Japan to details about the ...
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Honko sama – Appreciation of Harvest Nanto city, Toyama Pref.
2016 25 minutes
Honko is one of Jodo Shinshu's Buddhist events that commemorate the virtue of its founder, the Monk Shinran. The event is called differently depending on the region: in Toyama, it's called 'Honko sama'. It's a special event for household devotion. After the ceremony given by a local monk, special dishes are served to the guests ...
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A Brewery from Sake’s Birthplace Izumo city, Shimane Pref.
2016 25 minutes
Izumo City is believed to be the birthplace of Sake. Asahi Shuzou is a long-established sake brewery since 1869. A female successor of the brewery has set a new challenge with a view to convey the beauty of Sake. Willing to change the image of Sake to be more casually accepted by the public, she's ...
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Beauty of ‘Edomae’ Sushi Fukagawa, Tokyo
2016 25 minutes
Sushi was first made in Edo (Tokyo's old name) as regional food. It spread across the country and became one of Japan's most famous foods. Fresh fish for Edomae sushi can be prepared by marinating it in marinated in vinegar or soya sauce, or cooked in sauce and served cold, folded over vinegared rice. This ...
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Sendai Traditional Vegetables, Producers for Nine Generations Sendai city, Miyagi Pref.
2016 25 minutes
In Sendai city in Miyagi prefecture, regional vegetables are called 'Sendai Traditional Vegetables' as they are adapted to its land and climate. The camera follows a family who has grown these vegetables over generations, from seeding to cultivating and cooking. Click here to preview this episode! Part of the "Food of Japan Series 2"!
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‘Koshinoyuki’ Sweets Nagaoka city, Niigata Pref.
2016 25 minutes
Koshinoyuki is one of the three best sweets in Japan made of fine sugar and rice flour. Created in the Edo period in Nagaoka City, Niigata Prefecture, it spread across Japan. Shinsaku Takasugi, a famous samurai, was said to have scattered this sweet over a bonsai pine tree next to his deathbed so he could ...
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‘Senmaizuke’ Pickled Turnip Kyoto city, Kyoto Pref.
2016 25 minutes
The old city of Kyoto is famous for pickles using local vegetables: Suguki, Shibazuke, and Senmaizuke. Nowadays there are many producers of Senmaizuke on the market, but it was first made by Kyoto's pickles specialists at the Tsukemono (Japanese pickles) shop Daito. For more than 150 years, the recipes were passed through the generations. See ...
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‘Yoshoku’ Cuisine – The First Western Food Yokohama city, Kanagawa Pref.
2016 25 minutes
The international port city of Yokohama is where cultures from the West were first allowed to develop in Japan after many years of isolationist policies. Yokohama's 'Hotel New Grand' opened in 1927 and many Yoshoku or Japanese-style western dishes were created there. Yoshoku has changed Japanese culture. The camera focuses on the hotel, which became ...
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‘Oyaki’, Long-life Village’s Savory Cake Suzaka city, Nagano Pref.
2016 25 minutes
Oyaki is a steamed or grilled savory cake made of cooked vegetables stuffed in a flour dough. It can also be made with An (sweet bean curd) wrapped in flour dough. This is a traditional home cuisine in Nagano prefecture. There are many Oyaki manufacturers in the region. Among many variations of stuffing, the most ...
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Wild Eel Captured in the City’s Yodogawa River Osaka city, Osaka Pref.
2016 25 minutes
Yodogawa is a long river running across several cities in the Kansai area (the western part of Japan). At the mouth of this river, wild eels have been caught using traditional fishing techniques since Edo period. Take a look at the rare wild eel fishing in the protected environment and discover specialties of Yodogawa using ...
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Anago, Saltwater Eel Tsushima Island, Nagasaki Pref.
2016 25 minutes
Tsushima, Kyushu is a small island located between Japan and South Korea. This small island is famous for Japan's highest production of Anago saltwater eels. Local restaurants serve them as tempura, shabushabu or even as sashimi. The camera shows how the saltwater eels are captured, prepared and then served at restaurants. Click here to preview ...
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Katayaki – Ninja Snack for the World Iga city, Mie Pref.
2016 25 minutes
Iga City, Mie prefecture is traditionally known for Iga Ninja. What kind of food did ninjas eat? Katayaki is a regional snack that is said to come from the food that ninjas used to eat as easy-to-carry snacks. This unique snack was exhibited at the World Expo in Milan, Italy in 2015 and it received ...
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Nagoya’s Home Food – Miso Udon Noodle (Nikomi Udon) Nagoya city, Aichi Pref.
2016 25 minutes
Out of many regional foods found in Nagoya, one can't avoid 'Miso dishes' which use thick red sauce from soya paste. Variations are Miso Udon Noodle (Miso Nikomi Udon) and pork cutlet with miso sauce (Miso Katsu or Miso Kushikatsu). People enjoy these savory dishes with their rich flavored sauce. The camera focuses on Miso ...
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Hospitality in the Air Narita city, Chiba Pref.
2015 30 minutes
Tasty beef fillet, rich foie gras, and caviar: these are some of the ingredients used for in-flight meals produced by three-star chefs. Each meal is colorful and delicately presented while served in the air. Achieving these kinds of high-quality services requires tricks and creativity. This documentary presents the hospitality of Japan traveling around the world.Click ...
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‘Ebi Senbei’: Shrimp Crackers Nishio city, Aichi Pref.
2015 30 minutes
Ebi Senbei is a rice cracker made from rice with fresh shrimp. Nishio City is said to be where Ebi Senbei was first made. For almost 100 years Ebi Senbei makers in Mikawa Isshiki Town have been developing their flavors and production process while keeping tradition in mind. The camera follows the history of Ebi ...
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Barazushi Okayama city, Okayama Pref.
2015 30 minutes
Barazushi is a type of sushi with vegetables and fish beautifully scattered over sushi rice. Bara means 'scattered'. Okayama Barazushi is a colorful local dish famous for its variety of local products from the sea (The Seto Inland Sea) and mountains. This documentary describes Okayama's climate and historical background along with the recipe for Barazushi ...
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Miso Ramen (Soup Noodle) Sapporo city, Hokkaido
2015 30 minutes
Ramen noodles have become a trend all around the world, and nearly every Japanese region has its own variation. The speciality of Sapporo city is 'Miso Ramen,' which was created there after the second world war and has a miso paste based soup. Now a number of restaurants contribute to the city's tourism. Typical miso ...
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Decorated Festivity Dish: Kamaboko surimi Toyama city, Toyama Pref.
2015 30 minutes
Tai (Sea Bream) is a symbol of happy occasions in Japan. Kamaboko is a type of surimi; a processed seafood product made from white fish purée, formed into shapes, steamed until fully cooked, and served hot or cold. Tai-shaped Kamaboko is a must-have on festive occasions in Toyama. In this documentary, the camera focuses on ...
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Kyoyasai: Kyoto Vegetables Kyoto city, Kyoto Pref.
2015 30 minutes
World-famous tourist destination, Kyoto, is renowned for its local vegetables: kyoyasai (Kyoto vegetables). These vegetables play an important role in kyoryori (Kyoto's traditional cuisine). There are about 40 different vegetables that have been used by many Kyoto households for a long time. This documentary captures local farmers who specialize in kyoyasai, chefs using them in ...
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‘Akagyu Beef’ from Aso Aso city, Kumamoto Pref.
2015 30 minutes
One of Kumamoto's main productions is 'Akagyu beef' from Aso city, where cattle are raised in the beautiful prairies at Mt. Aso's foot. Not many people know this, but to maintain Aso's wonderful landscape, Akagyu cattle are needed there. With the stunning nature of Mt. Aso with its five peaks, the camera is introducing local ...
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Fine Cuisine of Ryotei Restaurants Yamagata city, Yamagata Pref.
2015 30 minutes
Yamagata city was once very popular for its safflower production for textile dyeing during the Edo period. Many safflower buyers, visiting the city at that time, enjoyed the fine cuisine from the Ryotei restaurants. Now only six of those Ryotei restaurants still exist. The camera depicts the hospitality (omotenashi) of those restaurants along with their ...
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Wagashi Sweets from Samurai Town Kanazawa city, Ishikawa Pref.
2015 30 minutes
The historical samurai town of Kanazawa is famous for wagashi (Japanese traditional sweets). The city is said to have the largest consumption of fresh wagashi. The different wagashi are traditionally made according to the four distinct seasons, adding elegance to people's daily lives. This documentary takes you on a journey to the world of sophisticated ...
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Kinmedai Fish Inatori city, Shizuoka Pref.
2015 30 minutes
Kinmedai fish (Golden Eye Snapper) from Inatori City, Shizuoka, is a very popular fish sold at the world-famous Tokyo Tsukiji Fish Market under its own brand: Inatori Kinmedai fish. The nutrition-rich Inatori coastal sea allows Kinmedai fish to have fatty tasty meat. The fish is delivered to major fish markets on the same day, straight ...
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Fugu (Pufferfish) Niihama city, Ehime Pref.
2015 30 minutes
Ehime's Niihama city is blessed with the beautiful Seto Inland Sea and a variety of delicious seafood. Local people enjoy 'Fuguzaku', a dish made from Fugu (pufferfish) which is only caught during the winter months. 'Fuguzaku' is roughly sliced pufferfish's skin and meat mixed with citrus vinegar sauce. The city is secretly known for its ...
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Strawberry Fields Tochigi city, Tochigi Pref.
2015 30 minutes
Tochigi is famous for having the largest production of strawberries in Japan for 47 consecutive years. Discovering how the best seller "Tochi Otome" and the new "Sky Berry" were developed, the camera follows its researchers and how they established the production processes to produce those sweet strawberries. Click here to preview this episode! Part of ...
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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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Visiting Sacred Places of the Tohoku Region
2011 15 mins
Even today, people in the Tohoku region reverently conserve traditional customs and natural environments. Their viewpoints may have the potential to uncover hidden clues as to how to solve the problems and contradictions of our bewildering modern society, as well as hints for the Japanese who are reconsidering their identity. Searching for “sacred places for ...
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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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Sake Tourism
2011 24 mins
Japanese sake is gaining popularity all over the world and its demand continues to increase exponentially every year. This program is packed with interesting information for any sake lover, as you’ll explore how people from 3 different areas of Japan enjoy sake in their own unique styles according to their region. It also introduces a ...
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Japan Heritage
2010 60 mins
Japan is full of beautiful landscapes and scenery spread across many geographical areas. These places are considered the nation’s inherited fortunes, and the Japanese people have strong desires to preserve them for the children of future generations. In these programs, you will visit many of these beautiful areas of Japan and enjoy the scenery, as ...
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Hokkaido Garden Story
2011 35 mins
Hokkaido Garden Story captures the story of 3 individuals who are the creators of three different, well-visited gardens in Hokkaido. This program offers depth and interesting background stories about how these gardens came to be. First introduced is Sayuki Ueno, a famous Japanese gardener, who founded Ueno Farm in Asahikawa. Her goal from the start ...
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