Go back
Nishijin-ori
Episode number: 1
Kyoto Lacquerware
Episode number: 2
Sake
Episode number: 3
Katsura Rikyu
Episode number: 4
Bonsai
Episode number: 5
The Four Seasons
Episode number: 6
Hina Dolls
Episode number: 7
Nagasaki
Episode number: 8
Five-Storey Pagodas
Episode number: 9
Cherry Blossoms
Episode number: 10
Chopsticks
Episode number: 11
Aizome
Episode number: 12
Bunraku
Episode number: 13
Kiriko Cut Glass
Episode number: 14
Traditional Folk Houses
Episode number: 15
Tea Ceremony
Episode number: 16
Soba
Episode number: 17
Origami
Episode number: 18
Imari Porcelain
Episode number: 19
Folding Fan
Episode number: 20
Kaiseki Cuisine
Episode number: 21
The Sounds of Japan
Episode number: 22
Masks
Episode number: 23
Satoyama
Episode number: 24
Kendo
Episode number: 25
The Fragrances of Japan
Episode number: 26
Spinning Tops
Episode number: 27
Rock and Stone
Episode number: 28
Ink Brushes
Episode number: 29
Overview: Since ancient times, people in Japan have devoted themselves to the traditional art of calligraphy, shodo. Writing characters with ink on paper, they create works that express the inherent beauty of the Japanese written language. In shodo, brushes are used for applying the ink to the paper. The expressiveness of the characters derives from variations in the speed and force that the calligrapher uses to move the brush. The brushes themselves are simple objects, made from bundles of animal hair or other materials bundled together and fixed to a shaft. The actual materials used will depend on the style of calligraphy that is desired. On this edition of BEGIN Japanology, we examine the history, development and contemporary applications of ink brushes, introducing these simple implements that have been so essential to the development of Japanese writing and painting.
Tsukemono
Episode number: 30
Dogs
Episode number: 31
Ramen
Episode number: 32
Rice
Episode number: 33
Shinto Shrine
Episode number: 34
Festivals
Episode number: 35
Overview: In Japan, festivals are known as matsuri. Many matsuri are colorful and boisterous occasions. Matsuri are typically associated with a Shinto shrine. Local people gather to pray and give thanks to the enshrined deity for agricultural bounty, health, safety and security. Over the years, these gatherings have evolved into elaborate events that frequently feature dancing, masks and magnificent floats. Entire local communities may be drawn into the preparations for festivals, which have nurtured some of the most refined arts and crafts in Japan. Even the sophisticated Noh theatre has festival origins, and, in some communities, apprentices will spend years learning a craft such as woodcarving specifically for its application in an annual matsuri. On this edition of BEGIN Japanology, we present some of the most famous festivals in Japan and consider the links to community and culture.
Shinkansen
Episode number: 36
Gagaku
Episode number: 37
Marriage
Episode number: 38
Shogi
Episode number: 39
Nabe Cuisine
Episode number: 40