Overview: About the origins and evolution of the Japanese "boxed lunchset".
Overview: A short look on the history, present and future of the famous fishmarket in Tsukiji, Tokyo.
Overview: Explaining the integration of Western meals into the Japanese diet.
Overview: Kyodo (loosely translatable to "archery") is not so much about hitting the target as it is all about the form, skill and practice of the art.
Overview: A look at the phenomenon of dagashi-ya ("thrifty sweetshops") and the role they played in a community and it's growing resurgence in modern society
Overview: The "soroban" (Abacus) - a calculation tool no longer used in the Western world but still a common sight in Japan, where education and businesses use it with great succes.
Overview: Bamboo, a native Japanese plant of the tree family, has many uses. This episode explores a few, such as tools, decoration and even as food.
Overview: During the Japanese summer, fireworks are a daily phenomenon, as such, this episode shows it's origin, production and techniques.
Overview: The wall scroll is not just used for decoration, it has a special role during the tea ceremony that is still practiced in Japan. From the special placement in a room to the padding of the scroll itself, everything must considered.
Overview: The first part of two episodes focussing on the ancient Japanese epic that left a huge impact on the cultural history of Japan, "The tale of Genji", written in the Heian period. This part details the author, characters and plot.
Overview: Part two continues with a look on the Heian period and the effect the epic had on Japanese cultural history.
Overview: Matcha, the powdered residue of ground green tea leafs, has been a key ingredient in the Japanese tea ceremony for more than a millenium, but nowadays it's also being used in more than just tea.
Overview: A key player in the skyline of Tokyo, Tokyo Tower is a source of entertainment and inspiration. A look on it's construction and influence.
Overview: This episodes investigates the staple Japanese food, "Sushi" via it's origins and ingredients.
Overview: During Japan's civil war era, many castles were erected as strongholds and displays of power by the local warlords.