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...

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...

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...

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...