Fukuoka facing the Genkai Sea has been geographically and historically a city open to East Asia. It still maintains links with many Asian countries-- from Port of Fukuoka, there is a ferry which runs between Fukuoka and Busan in the Republic of Korea. Walking through the city, our reporter Vincent encounters a wide variety of things which ties to East Asia. Yanagibashi Rengo Ichiba, a market which is known as Fukuoka's kitchen, offers foods and ingredients which trace their roots to different regions of Asia. Here, various food ingredients represent Asia -- Mentaiko came from the Korean Peninsula, steamed buns came from China and fishcakes (fried fish paste) came from Southeastern Asia. Foods which crossed the sea to Fukuoka were adapted to Japanese tastes and developed a new food culture. How do local people feel about ties to East Asia? TOKO, a Fukuoka-based essayist introduces us to new movements in Fukuoka. One of the new attempts is to present new fashion to Asia from Fukuoka. Every year, local designers participate in a fashion show called "Asian Collection". Seiji Amamoto, a designer who participated in the show, aims to introduce his brand, a collaboration of Fukuoka's traditional silk textile "Hakata-ori" and denim, to the Chinese market. Fukuoka has many foreign residents and there is a new attempt in the music field too. There is a group of Japanese and Chinese musicians who play their country's traditional folk instruments to create a new form of Asian music. At last, TOKO takes Vincent to the best spot for feeling "Asia". It's the food stalls called "Yatai", which can be seen in many other Asian countries. Fukuoka has the largest number of stalls in Japan, about 160. Here, Vincent experiences oddly cozy space where strangers can open up easily.
Toyama is a city surrounded by tall mountains and has a population of 400,000. It's a place where unique businesses have sprung up since the days of old. Toyama's medicine became famous, in particular, for this gastric medicine, first made here three centuries ago - it's a blend of over 20 ingredients extracted from medicinal herbs found in the mountains of Toyama. The recipe may have changed slightly over the years but the medicine is still used today. Traveling salesmen used to peddle this medicine all over the country. In an age when there was little medicine available, the cures these salesmen offered were very much appreciated. This was how Toyama's medicine spread to households nationwide. At its height, some 12,000 salesmen traveled over the mountains, selling medicine? The City of Toyama is surrounded on three sides by rugged mountains, 3000 meters high. It used to be a very difficult place to get out of. Toyama thrived with maritime trade, with people traveling over waters, and spreading their networks all over the country. The company was founded in 1968 and did not follow the general trend of mass production. And so, it excelled in producing cars with rare and classical designs. The design is based on the Japanese myth Orochi about a great snake with eight heads. He had incorporated the mythological beast into the car's design. The people of Toyama have paved their way with their wisdom and spirit to offer hospitable services. Their strong will to overcome challenges still prevails.
Furano, located just about in the center of Hokkaido Prefecture is becoming a popular destination for foreign skiers. The purple lavender fields in summer turns into pure white snowfields in winter. Furano ski resorts offer quality powder snow which is perfect for skiing and attracts skiers from around the world. The winter season in Furano presents various options to enjoy the great outdoors. The most exciting of all is an adventure trip on a dog sled. Our reporter Sotaro Nagasawa visits Hidetaka Matsubara in Minami Furano. Matsubara owns 29 sled dogs which are hybrids of Siberian husky and wolf. These wolfdogs can withstand cold temperature and are good runners, which make them optimal companions for dog sledding. Sotaro, with Matsubara as a guide, rides a dog sled and heads for snow-covered primeval forests which even locals rarely enter. On their way, they stop by at Kanayama, a village developed by pioneers who came to seek gold a hundred years ago. They meet Sato's in the village who showed them gold gathered during the gold-rush and hear about the tales from those years. During Sotaro's three-day dog sledding trip, he sleds as he takes care of his six dogs. The most important point of dog sledding is a trusting relationship with dogs. Sotaro struggles as he goes sometimes left behind by dogs. In the snow, they set up a tent by themselves and camp by utilizing nature's resources. On the last day, Sotaro changes his gear from dog sled to skis and aims for a habitat of brown bears. He finds animal foot prints in the snow and brown bear's claw marks on big trees. This edition introduces you to an adventure which can be experienced only in deep snow of Hokkaido during winter.
The navigator for this episode of "journeys in japan" is opera director Dario Ponissi. His destination is Naoshima of Kagawa Prefecture, a small island in the Seto Inland Sea, with a population of some 3300. Naoshima has gathered global attention as a center of contemporary art. Some 30,000 tourists now visit this island from Japan and abroad every year. The Red Pumpkin created by Yayoi Kusama welcomes visitors at Naoshima's main port of Miyaura. The island showcases many pieces of contemporary art in harmony with the island's natural environment. The first place Dario visits is the Honmura District in the eastern part of the island. Here, many old houses and a shrine have been transformed into pieces of art, to form the Art House Project. The old meets contemporary art, coming alive again today with new value. A local volunteer guide Terunori Takahashi takes Dario to see interesting pieces of art around the island, and Dario learns about the relationship between the islanders and art. With contemporary art so embedded in their lives now, some people of the island have even been inspired to create themselves. Akira Kojima who lives in the Honmura District has been making dolls with empty cans for five years now. Though it is a simple idea, it has become one of the signature pieces of Naoshima. The Naoshima Slag Ceramic Art Experience Studio was also set up to offer people the chance to experience art for themselves on the "island of contemporary art." Dario also tries his hand at pottery, following the instructions by the local women, as a wonderful souvenir of this trip. Naoshima is alive with contemporary art. The defining moment for the "island of contemporary art" was the opening of the Chichu Art Museum. As the name "Chichu" (literally meaning "in the ground") suggests, most of the building is submerged in the ground. It is indeed a unique museum, housing works by three masters of light, Claude Monet, Walter De Maria, and James Turrell. The piece
Kamakura lies on the coast to the south of Tokyo, surrounded on three sides by hills, and looking out to the sea. Eight centuries ago, a samurai warrior seized power and set up his capital here. Today on "journeys in japan", our reporters search out the samurai spirit that's been passed down since ancient times. First they visit a shrine called Tsurugaoka Hachimangu. Established nearly 1,000 years ago, it's the best-known symbol of the city. One aspect of the warrior spirit of the samurai still lives on at Tsurugaoka Hachimangu. Engakuji is a Zen temple. It was founded in 1282 by a Buddhist priest from China, who was invited to the shogunate. It is one of the city's main temples. The teachings of Zen were considered very important for the warriors. For about 20 minutes they sit and meditate, facing out toward the garden. Slowly the start to feel a sense of quiet and peace, free from the stress of everyday thoughts. Since the days of the samurai, it was thought that practicing zazen gave the warriors great depths of psychological strength. The philosophy of Zen underlay the spirit of the samurai. That spirit can still be found here in Kamakura.
This week, "journeys in japan" visits a city of science -- Tsukuba in Ibaraki Prefecture, at the foot of Mt. Tsukuba. In 1963, under a national policy, the city was opened up as a place for research on advanced technology. It's now home to 300 research institutes. Our reporter Judit Kawaguchi discovers the charms of the city and its state-of-the-art technology. Judit visits the Tsukuba Space Center, a research facility that plays a central role in Japan's space development. There, visitors can see a full-scale experimental model of an artificial satellite and experience what it's like inside Japan's Kibo lab on the International Space Station. Judit also tours Tsukuba's largest research facility -- the National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology -- to observe firsthand one of the important studies being done there: research on nanotechnology, a field that involves working with objects as small as a billionth of a meter. She also drops in at a robotics company to see some of its amazing technology. Tsukuba is not only a place for science; it's also located amid beautiful natural surroundings, including Mt. Tsukuba, which has long been revered by local people. Judit also gets to spend time with area residents and experience the local culture, including a festival and performing arts.
In this episode of "journeys in japan", our reporter, Adeyto, visits Oshino Village in Yamanashi Prefecture, in the northern foothills of Mt. Fuji., Japan's highest mountain. Her guide is the well-known actor Hatsunori Hasegawa. He lives in Tokyo but he loves the natural environment around Oshino Village so much that he built a villa there seven years ago. He shows Adeyto some of the beautiful spots in the area, and introduces her to the local people. The region around Oshino Village is famous for its high quality spring water. Hasegawa takes Adeyto to a beautiful spring where water from Mt. Fuji bubbles up. They also visit a local couple who have a natural spring on their property and use the water every day. They also meet some amateur photographers whose hobby is taking photos of Mt. Fuji. They have many anecdotes to share about their efforts to capture the best shots of the mountain. On the second day of their trip, they are shown some special decorations for two annual events. To mark the traditional Girls' Day festival, families put up displays of beautiful dolls, while banners with impressive decorations are put up for the Boys' Day. Next, Hasegawa takes Adeyto to meet a local musician. Tatsuro Omata is often called "the musician of the woods" because he transforms bamboo, branches and even nuts into musical instruments. It's amazing to hear the simple, beautiful sounds that he can produce with his homemade instruments. Like many other welcoming people who live in Oshino Village, Omata is happy to live in this wonderful natural environment at the foot of Mt. Fuji.
In this week's journeys in japan, we visit the Tottori Sand Dunes, the largest in Japan, in Tottori Prefecture. The Tottori Sand Dunes skirt the Sea of Japan in the southwestern part of Japan. The dunes were created naturally over 100,000 years by sediments carried from the mountains down the river and eventually blown up onto the shore. Our reporter Vincent Giry wonders into the land of majestic dunes and meets people who live together with sand. First, he joins the member of the photography club at the Tottori School for the Deaf. Students who have hearing difficulties tend to have a fear of communicating with other people. The activity of taking photographs of the visitors to the dunes, a major tourist spot, began as a way for students to overcome their sense of fear. This club activity encourages students to proactively talk to people who they meet for the first time. Vincent will find out how this activity made a difference on the students. After enjoying a photo session at the dunes with the students, Vincent sets out to see how "suna-tamago", the sand eggs are made. Here, he has a chance to observe "wisdom for living" based on local traditions. In fact, the secret to the creation of sand eggs was this wisdom itself. How did wisdom inspired making of the eggs? During his trip, Vincent also has a chance to learn about art made of sand, a crop which thrives only in the severe conditions of the dunes, and the research on dunes that is beneficial in arid lands around the world. By coming into contact with cultures old and new, we can see a coexistent relationship between the people and the sand which derived from unique geographical features of the sand dunes and the wisdom and the resourceful ideas that still exist today to benefit the local people in their lives.
In this edition, JJ goes to a secluded part of northern Izu Peninsula, facing Suruga Bay. Suruga Bay, the deepest bay in Japan, extends 2,500 meters below sea level. It's famous for its rich variety of seafood. Heda, a small fisherman's town, is especially famous for its catch of deep-sea fish and the Japanese spider crabs-the largest crab in the world, which lives at the depth between 150 to 800 meters. Shigeji Nakajima, who runs a crab restaurant, has been studying the Japanese spider crab for 50 years. Nakajima began releasing egg carrying female crabs to the sea some 25 years ago and people in the town are now working together for the preservation of crab stock. In 1853, when Japan still had an isolation policy, a delegate from Imperial Russia sailed to Japan to negotiate a commercial treaty between the two countries. But the crew was stranded when an earthquake-triggered tsunami destroyed the Russian vessel. Heda's shipbuilders helped the Russians construct a new vessel, the first Western-style ship to be built in Japan. The people of Heda are proud of their history of helping the Russians and spreading shipbuilding technology around Japan. Heda also produces some of the finest salt, using minneral-and-nutrient rich seawater from Suruga Bay. To make the salt, the seawater is boiled down for 13 hours. Careful attention is given to many factors including the timing of scooping the crystallized salt, firing it in the furnace and letting it mature. The Heda salt is full of rich natural flavor. Ose Shrine has a history of eleven centuries with fishermen from the entire Suruga Bay worshipping the enshrined guardian god of the sea. The Ose Matsuri is an ancient festival of fishermen where men dressed as women dance on boats, colorfully decorated with vivid banners and various blossoms. Today, the spectacular festival which takes place on April 4th every year is the most famous event in the region with non-fishermen residents also participating. Accord
In this week's journeys in japan, we visit the Toyokawa Inari in Aichi Pre, the one of largest Inari temple in Japan. Many of temples and shrines are protected by special guardian deities which is foxes. The animals are also believed to be messengers of the gods. Such temples and shrines are called Inari. At first they visited Toyokawa Inari temple to pray and see. After pray they got to offer "Syoujinryouri" which is a type of special vegetable cuisine, the meal temple priests typically eat. Also they visited "Reikozuka" where the visitors whose prayers at the temple are answered leave stone fox statues here as an expression of gratitude. There are almost 1000 statues here now. After all they met people who are members of a society for preserving traditional dancers in Toyokawa. They enjoyed to dance with the team. The street in front of Toyokawa Inari is lined with about 60 shops. A local specialty Inari-zushi is sold in these shops. They went to taste 2diffrent kind of Inari-zushi here. Also there are souvenir shops here. They visited a shop where sells traditional fox mask. There are some people from shops who want to activate the town. They are called "Chindonya". They make up as a fox and parade the town with music. Essam and Nozomi joined the parade in this time. After they looked around relating foxes, they went to see real fox to the zoo. This zoo is traveling zoo which is very unusual zoo in Japan.
On this edition of 'journeys in japan', we visit Himeji Castle, one of the few castles in Japan that have managed to survive in their original form, the way they were built about four centuries ago. Renowned for its beauty, this fortress is registered as a UNESCO World Heritage site, and draws numerous tourists every year, both from Japan and around the world. However, in April work began on a major restoration program. This magnificent landmark will gradually be covered in scaffolding from the bottom upwards; by the autumn of 2010, the main keep will be completely hidden from view. The people of Himeji are concerned that this will mean that fewer tourists come to visit their city. So they have been coming up with ideas to ensure that Himeji remains a major draw for visitors. Our reporter, George Burdaniotis, visited the city to find out what is going on. He met a group that discusses ways to promote the city. One of the participants, local photographer Kazuya Haga, takes George to visit his favorite viewpoints of the castle. George also meets some of the craftsmen whose families have been working in Himeji for many generations. He visits a company that makes the tiles that adorn Himeji Castle, and also a traditional metalworker that began making armor for the samurai warriors 800 years ago, but which now produces wind chimes. Finally, George falls in with a band of 'samurai' in full armor. These warriors are volunteers who gather every Sunday to chat to visitors and pose for photos, giving tourists a sense of the long history of this historic castle town. The start of renovation work on Himeji Castle has led to various initiatives to promote the city. Although the landmark will not be visible for the next five years, the local people will still be welcoming visitors with all their heart.
This week, we will focus on Naruto City in Tokushima Prefecture and introduce people who have made use of the bounties of nature in unusual ways to create products with added value. The sea off Naruto City has a strong current that flows at about 20 kilometers per hour and forms natural whirlpools that can reach a diameter of 30 meters. For this reason, fish that are tossed about in the currents are known in Japan to be tasty. Sea breams are said to be especially exquisite, and the best culinary delights will be shown. We will also visit a popular museum with a collection of artworks made with tiles that have been locally produced using the sea sand of Naruto. Furthermore, we will introduce a festival held in Tokushima, a place that is progressing as the city of LED.
The pine-studded sandbar spans Miyazu Bay, facing the Sea of Japan in northern Kyoto. The accumulation of white river sand over thousands of years sculpted this impressive strip of land, which has been the subject of significant poems and paintings for more than 1000 years. In this edition of "journeys in japan," our reporter, Judit Kawaguchi, meets the warm residents of this gorgeous area where history is very much alive. Looking at the "bridge in heaven" from above is not the only way to enjoy Amanohashidate. Walking across it is also delightful. The white sand beach, with its 8000 pines, has been considered a mystical place since ancient times. The city also prospered as a kimono textile center for several hundred years, drawing buyers from Kyoto. Structures reflecting its past glory can be found in many parts of Miyazu. The city also prospered as a kimono textile center for several hundred years, drawing buyers from Kyoto. Geisha also have a repertoire of amusing parlor games, called ozashiki-asobi . The living art of the geisha has been passed down in Miyazu for hundreds of years.
On this edition of "journeys in japan" we head to northern Japan to visit a historic city with a warrior legacy -- Yonezawa in Yamagata prefecture. For long years, it flourished as a castle town and was a home to many samurai. Our reporter JJ explores its samurai legacy. JJ first visits Uesugi Shrine, dedicated to the great lord Uesugi Kenshin who was in power about 500 years ago. Yonezawa was long ruled by generations of Kenshin's descendants. In 1871, local followers of the Uesugi clan built Uesugi Shrine in honor of Kenshin on the former site of Yonezawa Castle. At the shrine, JJ meets samurai enthusiasts who show him the appeal of samurai. In fact, Yonezawa is home to a big festival called the Uesugi Matsuri every May. Some 700 samurai enthusiasts from across Japan don costumes and participate in the mock battle to get a sense of what is was like to be a warrior 500 years ago. JJ wears the armor of a 16th century warlord. In Yonezawa, there are lots of hedges with the ukogi plant. Many ukogi hedges were created during the 18th century as part of a clan policy. The lord of Yonezawa domain at the time was Uesugi Yozan, the tenth family head of the Uesugi caln. Yozan conceived the idea to utilize ukogi as an emergency food source. During his reign, Yonezawa's food supply was very tight. So Yozan encouraged people to cook and eat ukogi plant with staples. JJ meets local people who are carrying on the tradition of ukogi dining. JJ caps off his visit by dipping at a hot spring in Yonezawa frequented by generations of the Uesugi clan. JJ feels the warrior's legacy in Yonezawa.
Geoparks, created by UNESCO's initiative in 2004, are aimed for people to learn more about the Earth and for invigorating local economies by using the parks for tourism. This time, we travel by car, starting from one of the geoparks - Mount Unzen in Shimabara, to Sakurajima in Kagoshima. It is a trip to feel the Earth's great energy and to learn about volcanoes and their connections to people's livelihood. Severe eruptions began on Mount Unzen in 1990. We will go near "Heisei-shinzan" peak that was created during the eruptions at the time, and witness scars left by streams of heated rocks and volcanic ash that flowed down the mountain. We will take a ferry to cross the Ariake Sea to go to Kumamoto. We will go close to the crater on Mount Aso, and feel the spooky smoke rising from the bottom of the crater. We will then visit an astronomical observatory (Luna Astronomical Observatory) at a pension in a village at the foot of the mountain. There, we will dip ourselves in thoughts about the Earth and the universe. The trip's last destination will be Sakurajima in Kagoshima Prefecture. Sakurajima continues to spew out smoke even now. It is the most active volcano in Japan, repeatedly erupting 3 to 4 times a day. Our reporter will go around Sakurajima, visiting Sakurajima Daikon radish farms and other places, meeting people living with the volcano. With Daisuke Fukushima who has a doctor's degree in volcanology, the reporter will excavate a hot spring for himself alone. Our reporter will challenge a trip on a 4-wheel vehicle, covering about 800 kilometers, to experience the Earth's energy.
In this week's journeys in japan, we visit the Mino-city in Aichi Pre, the town where famous for Japanese traditional paper "Washi". Washi is made from the fibers of tree bark and all handmade by traditional artisans has a beautiful appearance and texture. There are about 30 artisans who still produce washi in the traditional way. Tatsuo Ichikawa is one of oldest washi artisans in Mino city. He took over from his father in the family business. He explained to us how washi is made. He can only make 300 papers a day. There is a part of town where wholesalers dealing washi was lined. Some of the old buildings have survived to this day in their original form. Kyuu Imaike jyutaku is open for public to see the history of Mino city. Washi is used a lot of different ways. Keiko Ichikawa decided to use washi for material to make clothes. Since the tradition is fading little by little. She thinks that is possible to pass down the tradition of Mino Washi to future generations if she can come up with new and different uses, like making clothes. Also in Mino city there is a cuisine which is made using washi, used as a cooking pot. Vegetable, meat and soup are prepared in pot made of washi, and then put the washi pot on to the fire. Since the old days, washi has been used to make lanterns, known as "chochin" in Japanese. Hideki Haba is now the only traditional lantern maker in Mino. He has a lantern shop on the main street in Mino. He runs a shop with his daughter Hideka. They show and explain how to make the traditional lantern to all people who visit the shop. There is washi museum too. The museum displays various traditional items made of washi from all over Japan. In addition, there's a workshop where visitors can find out how washi-making is done. You can make some washi products here at the museum like a post cards and bigger sheets as notepaper. The whole process takes 20 minutes to 1day, depending on which course you choose. Also bicycles can be rented from road
On this edition of journeys in japan, JJ visits Minabe, Wakayama Pref., whose products are an essential part of Japanese food culture. Minabe produces more ume fruit than anywhere else in Japan - 30,000 tons every year. The type of ume grown in the area is called Nanko-ume. They are particularly large and flavorful, and are considered the highest quality in Japan. Most of the fruit harvested is pickled to make umeboshi, one of Japan's most distinctive foods. These pickled fruit are really sour and salty but they go perfectly with rice. JJ visits a Zen temple that has a special connection with this ume-growing region. Soten Akamatsu, the priest at this temple, has kept a jar of umeboshi made over 150 years ago by a doctor of traditional oriental medicine. In the old days, this was considered a very effective medicine. Thanks to the thick, lush forests covering the local hills, Minabe is also famous for its premium bincho-tan charcoal. Compared to regular charcoal, binchotan burns for longer and maintains a constant heat during the cooking process. It also cooks foods faster, and draws out their flavors to the maximum. When JJ is introduced to veteran charcoal-burners, Yukio Hara and his son Masaaki, they cook fish over charcoal for him. The forestry tradition that's been passed down since ancient times remains very much alive here to this day. At the end of his trip, JJ meets another ume farmer, Masahiko Gekko, who produces sweet and fruity umeshu, liquor made with ume fruit. He wants more people to discover the rich flavor of this drink, which he prepares from the Nanko-ume fruit that he harvests with such care from his orchards.
Sendai is the biggest city in northeastern Japan. It's also the hometown of Kumiko Mori, a popular singer and entertainer who appearis frequently on stage and TV. She meets up with NHK WORLD reporter Vincent Giry, and they visit many spots connected with the samurai warlord Date Masamune, who founded Sendai some 400 years ago as his castle town and military base. Every summer from August 6-9, the city celebrates the Sendai Tanabata Star Festival. During the three-day event, the covered shopping arcade near Sendai railway station is decorated with around 3,000 massive decorations, over 10 meters high. These colorful decorations are all are made by hand. Kumiko takes Vincent to one of the workshops where they are made. Next they travel to Matsushima, a coastal area known since ancient times as one of the three most beautiful places in Japan and one that Date Masamune loved. It is famous for its views of the more than 260 small islands that dot the bay and is now is a top tourist destination, drawing as many as 3.7 million people a year. Matsushima has many interesting sites, including an island with great spiritual significance, and a Buddhist temple that was rebuilt by Date Masamune and which is designated as a national treasure. On their last day, Kumiko and Vincent visit a small school on a remote island in Matsushima Bay, where they look in on one of the classrooms. The 34 elementary and junior high school students welcome them with a dynamic performance of traditional drumming. At the end of their, trip, they have a chance to sample one of the local delicacies - oysters harvested from the Matsushima Bay.
Nara was established as the capital more than 1000 years ago. It was the country's first major administrative center and was called Heijo-kyo. This year marks the 1300th anniversary of Heijo-kyo and the city is hosting many commemorative events, including the unveiling of re-created palace buildings. Our reporter Ayana Fuentes Uno visits the ancient capital, which became the foundation of a nation. The full-scale excavation project began in 1954 in Heijo-kyo. About one third of the excavation was completed in the first 50 years and the work is ongoing. Next they visit to eastern Nara, which has preserved its old structures and natural surroundings.Takabatake then went to Irie Taikichi Memorial Museum of Photography. Irie captured his deep love for Nara in vivid photographs. He focused landscape and Buddhist statues. Lastly, they visit Yakushi-ji. The Emperor ordered the construction of Yakushi-ji to pray for the recovery of the ailing Empress. The Buddha of Medicine, Yakushi Nyorai, is venerated here. One building here retains its original grandeur from 1300 years ago. It's the East Tower. It's the only building that survived the myriad fires destroying the other structures.
On this edition, we present the highlights from our past broadcast. Our Reporters travel across Japan, where they discover fascinating local culture and people. Tottori Dune: Tottori-Pref. The Tottori Sand Dunes, the largest in Japan, skirt the Sea of Japan in the southwestern part of Japan. Our reporter Vincent joins the member of the photography club at the Tottori School for the Deaf. This club activity encourages students to proactively talk to people who they meet for the first time. Vincent will find out how this activity made a difference on the students. Yonezawa: Yamagata-Pref. Yonezawa is a historic city in Yamagata prefecture, the northern part of Japan. For long years, it flourished as a castle town and was a home to many samurai. JJ visits Uesugi Shrine, dedicated to the great lord Uesugi Kenshin who was in power about 500 years ago. At the shrine, he meets samurai enthusiasts who show him the appeal of samurai. Miyazu: Kyoto The pine-studded sandbar spans Miyazu Bay, facing the Sea of Japan in northern Kyoto. It's called "Amanohashidate." Looking at the "bridge in heaven" from above is not the only way to enjoy this. Matanozoki...is the name for this traditional pose of viewing Amanohashidate-the 3.6 kilometer-long sandbar-looking upside down. Judit also visits a village near Amanohashidate, where about 50 households are engaged in fishing. Northern Izu Peninsula: Shizuoka-Pref. JJ goes to a secluded part of northern Izu Peninsula, facing the Pacific Ocean. Ose Shrine has a history of eleven centuries with fishermen from the entire Suruga Bay worshipping the enshrined guardian god of the sea. He joins the Ose Matsuri, an ancient festival of fishermen where men dressed as women dance on boats. Naruto: Tokushima-Pref. Tokushima is in the Shikoku Island. Vincent takes a sightseeing boat and enjoy watching the Naruto Strait which is famous for its large whirlpools up to 30 meters across. Also he visits a wooden door company and he
The Sekita mountain range, soaring 1000 meters above sea level, straddles Nagano and Niigata Prefectures. Hikers can now walk along it on the "Shin-etsu Trail." It extends along the ridge for distance of 80 kilometers, from Mount Madarao in Nagano Prefecture to Mount Amamizu in Niigata Prefecture. It opened in 2008, thanks to the hard work of many local volunteers. The Sekita mountain range is known for its virgin beech forests and marshlands, which have been largely lost in Japan. The habitats of many plant and insect species have been preserved here. The site is also a "Satoyama," a place where people coexist with the mountain through small-scale farming and forestry use. Our travelers will spend five days walking the full distance of the "Shin-etsu Trail". Our guide is a nature writer, Noriyoshi Kato. Kato has walked several long trails in Japan and abroad. In 2005, he became to complete on foot the full distance of of the Appalachian Trail in the United States. They take off from the starting point of the Shin-etsu Trail - Mount Madarao (1382 meters high). They come upon a marsh on the first day, which is a breeding ground of the rare Forest Green Tree Frog, found only in Japan. 16 passes cross the Shin-etsu Trail. As there are no accommodations available along the trail, travelers stay at private inns in villages in the foothills, accessed by the passes. The lives of people in the foothills are closely linked with the range. Water run-off is used for the rice fields. The beech forests help store that water. It's an example of satoyama. Our travelers continue along the long trail through beech forests, supporting the habitats of many creatures. They learn about the area's nature and how people have long co-existed with it.
This time, "journeys in japan" will travel to Uchiko on the island of Shikoku. Surrounded by mountains and blessed with abundant nature it is situated almost at the center of Ehime Prefecture. The town flourished along with the production of vegetable wax in the latter part of the 19th century. Visiting the town is street performer and mathematician, Peter Frankl. First Peter visits the Yokaichi district. The beautiful townscape gave Uchiko its name - 'the town of white walls.' Traditional machiya houses with plastered walls line the streets on both sides for about 600 meters. Some of these houses have been ornately plastered with kote-e, revealing Uchiko's former prosperity through vegetable wax production. In 1982, Japan designated the district as Important Preservation Districts for Groups of Traditional Buildings. It has been a popular destination attracting about 300,000 visitors each year ever since. The town is not merely a historical place, people still live and work here and make efforts to revitalize and maintain the traditions. With a 200-year old history, Taro Omori is a sixth generation Japanese candle craftsman and owner of this shop. Japanese candles have big flames and less soot, and the warm glow has brightened the lives of Japanese people for a long time. Omori coats the wick, made from Japanese washi paper and silk, with melted vegetable wax using his bare hands, a traditional method. His son, Ryotaro has also started candle making and the two generations continue the age old tradition together. Next, a trip out of town takes you to peaceful countryside. Visitors can experience country life and cooking at a traditional inn run by local housewives. The inn provides popular accomodation for about one thousand guests every year. Peter experienced mountain herb picking, tasted country cooking and spent a lovely time in the mountain valley. Many people are charmed by Uchiko's beautiful scenery. It is not the remnants of the past that make it a
Tochigi Prefecture is situated in the most northern part of the Kantō region, and is a prefecture that is inland, not facing the coast. Though only 70 kilometers away from Tokyo, it is an area that still retains a lush mountain landscape. This program goes on a journey to visit the people who live in the natural environment of such a mountainous area, taking a look at their work and everyday lives. The first place we visit is Ashikaga Flower Park of Ashikaga City. Though it may seem like a regular botanical garden at first glance, there is actually a fantastic sight here that draws enormous crowds. The tree doctor and director of the gardens Konami Tsukamoto takes us to see the most treasured sight of the gardens. Moving further north, we enter a lush rural mountainous area. Here, we find a plant that grows over three meters tall. Tochigi Prefecture is actually one of the largest hemp producers in Japan, and July is the month when the crop grows most vigorously. While watching how it is harvested, we ask Yoshinori Ōmori about his endeavors in creating new hemp products. Being a mountainous area, many peoples' lives are embedded in nature. So what is it like? Laura Adeyto goes to visit the house of Takeshi Machida, whom she met in Tochigi City, to spend a day of rural life. Going out to weed the rice fields and chopping wood to feed the fire to cook rice, it is all about taking the time and effort. It is indeed a "slow life" experience. People who normally enjoy the convenience of urban life rarely feel the presence of nature close at hand these days. A way of life in nature seemed to emanate a nostalgic feel, something we seem to have forgotten and left behind.
On this week's "journeys in japan," we visit Karatsu city in Saga prefecture. The area, which looks out to the sea, is blessed with a warm climate. People here have long enjoyed marine sports. A legendary French diver had strong ties with the sea of Karatsu. Jacques Mayol was the first man in the world to free dive to 100 meters. And it was a childhood encounter with a dolphin off the coast of Karatsu that inspired him to dive. Our reporter Ian Thomas Ash investigates the diver's deep connection to Karatsu. Ian visits the Nanatsu-caves, where Mayol met his first dolphin. Local diver, Atsushi Takashima, who accompanied Mayol whenever he dived in Karatsu, points out the things that Mayol loved about the area. Mayol also enjoyed the company of the people of Karatsu. He always stayed in the same traditional Japanese inn when visiting. He loved its simple natural aesthetic, and the garden view through the seasons. The inn has long been popular with visitors from overseas. Inn owner, Akihiko Okochi gives Ian a tour of the inn. It's easy to see why people would fall in love with it. In ancient times, Karatsu enjoyed prosperity through its thriving trade with Asian countries. The two Chinese characters of its name reflect this history, Kara is an old word for China and Tsu for port. Ian meets a local fish cake maker, Kazunori Fujikawa. They visit the fish market where Fujikawa points out local specialties. In autumn, the city residents look forward to a major festival called the Karatsu Kunchi, which celebrates abundant harvests. It features a spectacular parade of giant floats. Inn owner Okochi takes Ian to a museum where people can get a close up look at the floats. Ian learns what the festival means to the people of Karatsu.
Izu-Oshima, the largest of the seven islands in the Izu chain, lies 120 kilometers south of Tokyo. It was formed by volcanic action, and the volcano in the center of the island is still active. Because of its size, hilly terrain and tranquil environment, Oshima is a popular training base for long-distance runners. The loop road around the island is about 40 kilometers long, and there are many long, hard slopes along the route, which helps to build up stamina and mental endurance. Double Olympic medalist Yuko Arimori used the island as her training base ahead of her successful marathons. In this episode of "journeys in japan", Arimori visits Oshima with our reporter, JJ, and takes him to some of her favorite places on the island. They visit the inn that was her home away from home while she was training, and meet the innkeepers, who were her "parents in Oshima." Arimori and JJ are welcomed with a wonderful meal of fresh seafood. They also try their hand at making a gyotaku fish print. The next day they explore Motomachi, the island's main town. There is an interesting small museum that keeps alive the old traditions of Oshima, includes hand-carved wooden dolls known as anko. Walking through a forest of camellia trees, they meet Shojiro Watanabe, a charcoal burner. He has just caught a mamushi viper and he takes them to his house to show them what he does with the snakes he catches.
Hita City in Oita Prefecture is a quiet town with a population of about 70-thousand, located in northern part of Kyushu in southwestern Japan. It is surrounded by many mountains, including the Aso-Kuju and the Hiko mountain systems. Abundant water resources flowing out from these mountains merge in the Hita basin. Thus many rivers flow through Hita City and are serving the local people in their daily lives. The Mikuma River crosses the center of the town east to west. The traveler in our program visits Yana or traditional Japanese fish trap site at the river. This is a fishing method existing from ancient times. Anglers wait for ayu sweetfish coming down the river to lay eggs. When ayu gets on the trap made by weaving bamboo, they catch the fish by hand. The sweetfish is salted and grilled on a skewer, and eaten. The traveler also visits a Geta-clog factory situated along the river. Hita is a major cedar growing area in Japan. Making Geta-clogs using cedar wood has been done on a large scale from the Edo Period. In addition to traditional "Hita Geta" making use of the wood's grain pattern, we get to see many new-style Geta-clogs that go well with not only traditional Japanese kimonos but also western-style dresses. The new designs are made to match recent fashion and tastes of young women. During the Edo Period, Hita City prospered under the direct control of the shogunate government. A district in the city called Mameda Town retains street sceneries from the old days. The traveler goes around the district riding on a rickshaw. He meets with a unique sweets vendor, and visits a local brewer making sake using good-quality underground water. At Onta village where pottery making has been done for 300 years, the traveler encounters a device called "Kara-usu" used for grinding clay used for pottery making. Its pestle is moved by the power of the river water.
Nelson Babin-Coy is off to explore the Aizu region in Fukushima Prefecture by train. Nelson's first stop is at Yunokami-Onsen. The area is a hot-spring village with many traditional inns and guesthouses. One of the things Nelson wants to do on this journey is to bathe in an open-air bath looking out over the river. Three and a half hours from the hustle and bustle of Tokyo, the hot spring facing the valley feels like paradise! Ōuchi-juku near Yunokami-Onsen was a post town on the old road. Its main street is flanked by more than 40 old wooden houses, which were built as lodgings for travelers over 300 years ago. Nelson stays in one of the traditional buildings and tastes local cuisine prepared by the guesthouse owner. Traveling slowly by train through this scenic countryside, Nelson finally approaches his destination, Aizu-Wakamatsu. Aizu-Wakamatsu developed as a major castle town in feudal times and has remained the main city of Aizu until this day. Nelson meets a pair of musicians, who have been performing songs about Aizu. Ryūta Chiyo and Kanako Honda formed their group Nazca six years ago. Chiyo and Honda take Nelson to one of the famous historic sites in the city. Built in 1796, the Aizu Sazae-do is the only wooden building in the world with a double spiral structure. Nelson is also introduced to Masanori Iimori, whose family has been looking after the Sazae-dō for generations.
The Seto Inland Sea located in western Japan is the country's largest inland sea. There is a road which runs across the inland sea and connects a chain of small islands. It is known as Shimanami Kaido. A 60 km long road which connects Onomichi City in Hiroshima Prefecture in Honshu island and Imabari City in Ehime Prefecture in Shikoku island has become a popular cycling route and gathers cyclists from all over Japan. In today's "journeys in japan", our reporter travels this road on his bicycle and introduces the Shimanami Kaido which allows you to take in the beautiful scenery while crossing the sea and islands in the inland sea. The greatest appeal of the Shimanami Kaido is its scenic views. The bridges which you will cross when traveling from an island to island offer panoramic views of a calm sea and dotted islands, very characteristic of the Seto Inland Sea. Another attractive feature is a "side trip" which can only be enjoyed on a bicycle trip. Each of six main islands en route to the goal has unique characteristic and the local people are cheerful and friendly, offering hospitality to cyclists. At Ikuchijima Island, the leading lemon production site in Japan, our reporter quenches his thirst with a sip of two-year-old vintage lemon juice which can only be enjoyed at the farm. At Hakatajima Island, known for its shipbuilding industry, he observes a ship launching ceremony. Traveling on a bicycle allows you to make a casual side trip as if you are on foot, but it lets you go a little farther. Refreshing body and mind pleasantly, our reporter runs through smiling faces of local islands and beautiful landscapes.
Adeyto visits three sites, starting in Kawasaki for a night factory tour. Most participants, including Adeyto, are into photographing the urban industrial landscape. What's the attraction of large-scale public works' sites for so many Japanese today? Next Adeyto travels north of Tokyo to rural Gunma Prefecture to take in a vast chamber located deep inside a mountain. The Kannagawa Hydropower Plant attracts more than 10 thousand visitors a year. They enjoy the sheer scale, as well as the impressive cables and turbines. The final destination of Adeyto's tour of man-made structures is a deserted island in Nagasaki Prefecture. Traveling 17 kilometers off of Nagasaki's Port, you'll come to Hashima. Hashima was once a coal mining facility, home to 5000 people. When resources were exhausted, the island was abandoned in 1974. Since it opened to the public last year, 70 thousand people have visited despite the fact that only concrete ruins remain. For many tourists, they find a silent message here.
Kure is a 30 minute train ride from Hiroshima. The port town has a population of 250-thousand. The historic shipbuilding town still turns out large tankers and other vessels. It's a major marine transportation hub in the Seto Inland Sea with hundreds of ships going in and out of the port daily. It developed in the Meiji Period around the establishment of a naval base. The sea, ships and navy are woven into Kure's history. Today, we'll explore the culinary culture nurtured in this port town. "Nikujyaga originated in KURE." Legendary navy admiral Heihachiro Togo became fond of beef stew as a student in England. He asked his cooks in Japan to recreate it. Togo's staff used sugar and soy sauce as seasoning. Nikujaga entered Japan's culinary culture as food for naval officers. "Thin udon noodle." Kure adapted a Japanese dish in its own way, too. Local chefs toyed with the udon noodle. But what's served in Kure is a little unorthodox. Kure's udon noodles are cut much thinner. This style of udon spread in Kure in the early Showa Period.The founder of this shop ran a small stall, peddling thin noodles around town. His customers at the time were busy shipyard workers. He wanted to prepare delicious fare for workers who had little time to spare. This was the main reason behind cutting thin udon-for quick preparation and consumption. "Nikutama Rice provides stamina." Kure has still has many industrial senior high schools and mercantile marine schools. Young students learn welding and other skills. They eventually take up careers that support Kure's industry. Students head to a popular place every morning. They love its nikutama rice. It's a simple dish. Thinly sliced pork is grilled. Steamed rice is served in a bowl. The rice is flavored with a mixture of condiments. Then a lightly fried egg and the pork slices are placed on top. The rice bowl is laced with a generous amount of okonomiyaki sauce. It's topped off with a dollop of mayonnaise-voila Nikutama
Because of Japan's volcanic terrain, natural hot springs are found throughout country. Known as onsen, they are one of the highlights of any visit to Japan. There are more than 3,000 onsen in Japan. And many of them are rather different to typical hot spring spa resorts. There are lots of different ways of enjoying these onsen. Some have become popular among visiting tourists. Others are peaceful places out in the wild where you can sit and soak in seclusion. On this edition of "journeys in japan," Judit is visiting Hachimantai, in the northern part of Honshu, Japan's main island. It's a wild region, about 1,500 meters above sea level, and it's famous as one of the country's major onsen regions. The hot springs in the Hachimantai area have been popular with the local people for centuries. People come to Tamagawa Onsen just to breathe in all the steam that gushes out of the holes in the rock. It's known as 'steam bathing' and it's very therapeutic. Another way to benefit from the heat is just to feel it soaking up into your body. The temperature of the ground varies from 50 to 60 degrees Celsius. Just lying down on it is enough to heat up your body. People put down their straw mats wherever they choose. The practice of toji is deeply rooted in Japanese life. There are still many hot spring inns catering to toji in northern Japan. They are especially popular in rural communities, and are used by farming families once the crops have been harvested. At inns like this, people meet and get to know each other. Staying as a toji is therapeutic - not just for the body but also the mind and spirit.
On this edition of journey in japan , we visit the Iya Valley, in the center of Shikoku. Until about 40 years ago, it was cut off from the rest of the island, and people living there had little interaction with other communities. This allowed the traditional customs and lifestyle to remain unchanged for centuries. Our reporter, Adeyto, takes a local train into the mountains of Shikoku, following the course of the Yoshino River, the longest river on the island. Then she has to take a bus along a mountain road that's so only wide enough for one vehicles at a time. In the Iya Valley, there are traditional suspension bridges made out of vines known as kazura, which grow in the local forests. In the old days, these kazura bridges used to be the only way to get across the river. One of the bridges is 45 meters long. Because they do not last long, the local villagers remake the kazura bridges every three years. Iya Village is no longer so cut off, and there have been many changes in recent years. Many of the traditional farmhouses with their thatched roofs have been lost. But one old house was saved from destruction after being bought by an American man, Alex Kerr, who discovered the Iya Valley in the 1970s. Now the 300-year-old building is run by an NPO, the Chiiori Trust, which works alongside local residents to help preserve the traditional architecture. Adeyto visits a community built on the steep mountainside, to find out about the traditional lifestyle in this remote settlement. The buckwheat harvest is just over and she gets to try a traditional dish made from buckwheat grain. Finally, Adeyto hikes to the top of Mt. Tsurugi, the second highest peak in Shikoku, located at the far end of the Iya Valley. The mountain takes its name from a sword that was hidden here some 800 years ago, which belonged to a young emperor who died in battle. For the local people, this is a sacred spot. There is a mountain lodge just below the summit, which gives a wonderful
Yakushima is located 60 kilometers off Kagoshima Prefecture, in Japan's southern main island of Kyushu. It's blanketed in lush forest, and has mountains that soar nearly 2,000 meters above sea level. With its more than 1,000-year-old ancient cedars and unique ecosystem created by abundant rainfall and warm climate, Yakushima has been registered as a World Heritage site. Our reporter, Bene, has long wanted to visit this magical place. She is also looking forward to experiencing the island's famous hospitality. Bene has enlisted the help of a local guide to go hiking. Kazuyuki Manabe chooses a route along a river in the Shiratani Unsuikyo ravine. Their destination is a mystical spot-a kind of secret garden... Bene heads for a place to rest for the night. Inn owner Aiko Nagai, who was born on the island, has a warm personality. She creates an at-home atmosphere, which brings her guests together like family. Next she's off to Isso, which has long flourished for its fishing industry, especially saba mackeral. Local fisherman, Ryuichi Saito, prepares sashimi for Bene from his freshly hauled in saba catch. Bene visits a beautiful beach on the island and reflects on her stay, where she was awed by nature and the friendliness of Yakushima residents.
In this week's journeys in japan, we visit Kanazawa city in Ishikawa Pre. 99% of the gold leaf in Japan is made in this city. Gold has been adding color to Japan's traditional culture. At this time travelers are going to find out how gold is processed into a thin foil to make gold leaf. And in addition, they will introduce the amazing new gold leaf products developed recently in Kanazawa city. At first, they visited a shop where you can have a hands-on experience on kinpaku crafts. Applying gold leaf is a technique to use a small amount of gold to make gorgeous decorations. They also went to see how the gold leaf is made. They visited a veteran kinpaku artisan who has been making gold leaf for sixty years. They found out the washi paper used in gold leaf- making had traditionally another use. It was used as facial oil-blotting paper. At the factory, only washi paper is pounded to produce oil-blotting paper, by applying the pounding technique of gold leaf making. Since long ago, gold leaf was used to a lot of ways. One of the use was for Butsudan, Buddhist altars at homes for revering ancestors. Kanazawa city is also famous for making Buddhist altars. They went to see the process of making the Buddhist altar by veteran artisan. And they will find out amazing gold leaf products developed recently. In Japan, gold leaf is authorized as food additive. It was the first time for Tyrone to eat gold leaf. Also they sees the very unique way of using gold leaf.
This week on "journeys in japan" we visit Koyasan in Wakayama prefecture. It's an ancient Buddhist sanctuary, far removed from the secular world. More than 1000 priests reside in the mountain hamlet, engaged in daily ascetic practices. There are 117 temples in Koyasan, but the whole complex is regarded as one big temple for Shingon Esoteric Buddhism. Koyasan was registered as a World Cultural Heritage site in 2004. It draws more than 1-million tourists every year. Temple stays, called shukubo, are proving popular with visitors from overseas. They take in the tranquil life of monks through involvement in ascetic practices-a rarefied experience not normally a part of tourism. Our reporter JJ has been in Japan for 10 years, but this will be his first time to stay at a temple. He is looking forward to partaking in its various rituals. JJ has booked a room at Ekoin, a temple that is very popular among visitors from abroad, who account for nearly half of its overnight guests. Resident-monk Chokei Tamura, who lived in the UK, looks after him. He explains the shukubo or daily schedule for the temple. A strictly followed timetable is observed at Ekoin during guests' stay. The first program is the 4:30 p.m. meditation session. Then, from 5:30, guests delight in Buddhist vegetarian cuisine, called shojin-ryori. After supper, they try their hand at transcribing Buddhist sutra. Then at dawn, they'll rise to take part in a service starting at 6:30 a.m. From 7:00, they attend a bonfire ritual called the Goma. JJ, like others, is on a spiritual journey to experience the Koyasan way of life, and perhaps even encounter a few things to incorporate in life at home.
On "journeys in japan," our reporter Julian ventures to Ishinomaki City in Miyagi Prefecture, about 400 kilometers north of Tokyo. Ishinomaki prospered as a fishery town, but recently has become known for promoting Japanese comics. Manga City-Ishinomaki was developed in homage to local manga legend, Shotaro Ishinomori (1938-1998), through the joint efforts of fans and fellow artists. Ishinomori had long dreamed of creating a town where people were exposed to manga on a daily basis. On weekends and holidays, the colorful "Mangattan Liner," which is decorated with famous characters from Ishinomori's work, runs between Sendai and Ishinomaki. Employees, dressed as famous hero characters, greet passengers getting off at Ishinomaki station. Life-size manga figures are also displayed in the station-the gateway to Mangaland-and other characters appear on the façade, as well as stained glass windows. "Manga Road" is lined with 20 full-scale manga characters. Manhole covers, benches and even letterboxes feature manga motifs. The nearly one-kilometer-long "Manga Road" ends at a large river. Its sandbar has been nicknamed "Mangattan" by local residents. The Ishinomaki Mangattan Museum is located here. It houses Ishinomori manga, anime and original artwork. There are game and library areas. The museum promotes the understanding of manga culture and history. Not far from Ishinomaki port is Tashiro-jima Island. Ishinomori adored this island for its low-key atmosphere and gorgeous scenery. At one point, he had planned to relocate his family and entire studio and staff to the island. Now, "Manga Lodges" have been built on the island. Each of the cat-shaped cottages has been painted by leading manga artists, featuring their famous characters. The people of Ishinomaki and Tashiro-jima, in conjunction with leading manga artists, have collaborated to fulfill Shintaro Ishinomori's dreams.
In this edition of "journeys in japan," we visit the Goto Islands, in the East China Sea off the west coast of Kyushu, southwest of Japan. Our reporter, American actress Haruka Orth, travels to Fukuejima, the largest of the Goto islands, to meet the people there and find out about the way they live. Minpaku On Fukuejima, a home-stay accommodation system was set up in 2009. Known as the minpaku system, visitors can stay at the homes of local families for a fee of about 6,000 yen per night. It's a chance for visitors to spend time with the host families, eating dinner with them and experiencing the way they live. For an extra charge (2,000 yen), guests can also get hands-on experience of the local people's work, such as fishing and farming. Churches Along the coast of Fukuejima, there are 14 Catholic churches. Such a concentration is unusual anywhere in Japan, and dates from the time when Christians found refuge from persecution on the island during the feudal period. Various churches are introduced, including the white Mizunoura Church; the stately brick Douai Church; and Kaizu Church, with its beautiful stained glass windows. Visitors are free to look around the churches during regular opening hours. Camellia oil head spa Camellia trees can be found growing all over the island and their oil is one of the specialties of Fukuejima. A salon called Monte Cange offers a head and facial massages using the camellia seed oil. It is located inside the Shirayuri beauty salon, in the main shopping area of Fukue. Bebencobicci Orchestra Young musicians on Fukuejima have formed a band, singing songs about their local area, using their own distinct dialect. Videos of their performances have been posted on YouTube: just run a search for "bebencobicci".
This week's "journeys in japan" focuses on the small factories that helped to lay the foundation for Japan's postwar manufacturing prowess. Our reporter Adeyto visits four factories in the Greater Metropolitan Area of Tokyo, to meet craftsmen whose products are in demand all around the world, and to discover their skills and artisan spirit. The first workshop, in Tokyo's Ota Ward, specializes in metalwork, producing a range of products from wine cups and pans to components for Japan's aerospace industry. Thanks to their long experience and remarkable precision, the highly skilled craftsmen can produce these items by hand, to specifications accurate to the nearest 1/100th of a millimeter. Adeyto's second stop is at a foundry in Saitama, just to the north of Tokyo, where craftsmen handle molten steel at temperatures up to 1,510 degrees. Visitors can try their hand at casting small metal objects, such as personalized bottle openers. Next she visits a factory that makes shots used by Olympic champions and shot-putters all around the world. 77-year-old Masahisa Tsujitani's shots are in demand because he can produce them with a center of gravity precisely in the very center. His craftsmanship is so precise he can make them without even looking at his lathe. The fourth and last workshop that Adeyto visits makes high-precision components for aircraft seats. As a sideline, the company also makes a range of exclusive products that are prized by top international celebrities. The company president began making these items for his own amusement, but now they are known worldwide.
In this edition of "journeys in japan," our reporter Ian Thomas Ash visits a number of rare temples known for their vivid colors. Setting off from the Sensoji Temple in Asakusa, Tokyo, he heads for a Buddhist temple in Hachioji City in the western part of the capital. Later he continues on north to Saitama, Gunma, and Niigata prefectures. All of the five temples that he visits share the uncommon in common! Ian covers about 300 kilometers on his colorful temple tour.
In this week's journeys in japan, we visit Toba-city in Mie-Pref., the town famous for cultured pearls. It was Japan that the first pearls were successfully produced from farmed oysters. The coast around Toba is heavily indented. This kind of topography, known as a ria coastline, is perfect for oyster cultivation. Kokichi Mikimoto is the person who first successfully cultured pearl. In 1888 when he was 40, he first started his research. He experimented with nearly 10 types of oysters, to determine which would form the highest quality pearls. In 1893, after 5 years of experimenting, he finally managed to produce his first cultured pearl. The place we visited was a small island called Pearl Island, there is a museum where visitors can find out about the history of cultured pearls. There are many women divers in Toba who catch shellfish and lobsters. There is the hat where visitors can come to feast on freshly caught seafood by women divers. Everyone can enjoy great seafood and view from this hut. In Toba, pearls are even incorporated in food. Pearl powder is rich in calcium and has been used as a traditional medicine in China since ancient times. We visited the ice cream shop serving the ice cream with pearl powder in. At the end, we visited the place where we can see the artworks using pearls. Toshimi Konishi has been using pearls to make distinctive artworks for 40 years. Konishi says he came up with the idea of making these artworks when he was thinking up ways to use the pearls that have irregular shapes and can't be sold. Also a 20 minutes ferry journey from Toba port brings you to Dolphin Island. There you can watch dolphin and sea lion shows. Another popular site is a pair of rocks known as Meoto-Iwa. Many visitors like to watch the magnificent sunrise from this spot.
In this edition of "journeys in japan", our reporter Vincent Giry visits Toyama Prefecture, known for its abundant snowfall. He learns how people have adapted to living in the long snowy winters-wisdom accumulated over hundreds of years. Himi He starts out in the port town of Himi. The port is bustling with fishing boats bringing in their catch early every morning. The prized fish here is the yellowtail. In midwinter, yellowtail is in season, and is a popular delicacy. Vincent observes the fish market's auction. Takaoka Then, Vincent moves south to Takaoka, which has a history of more than 400 years. The city has preserved much of its traditional architecture, and is Japan's biggest copperware production center. One workshop welcomes visitors to observe copper casting. He learns about ingenious engineering-on the street and in the home-to help cope with the area's heavy snow. Gokayama Vincent will spend time in Gokayama, a World Heritage site isolated deep in the mountains. Many visit even in the extreme cold of winter for the snow-blanketed scenery. In Ainokura village in Gokayama, the 20 Gassho-style houses there date back 250 years. Gassho-style houses are characterized by their steeply pitched thatch roofs. Gokayama residents make use of the extreme weather of winter to produce top quality washi paper. A few of Gokayama's gassho-zukuri houses provides lodging for visitors.
On this edition of "journeys in japan," Joshua will be trying his hand at ocean activities, soothing away his stress in spa water, exploring the countryside and simply sitting on the beach. Miura is so close to Tokyo - but it's full of places to relax, and people who know how to do that. Paddle surfing at Kuruwa Beach Joshua tried "Paddle Surfing." It is starting to get very popular in Japan, where it's also known as "paddle boarding." As you can guess from the name, the aim is to stand on the board and paddle along, riding the waves. It's a fun activity, combining the thrill of surfing with the leisurely enjoyment of canoeing. Even beginners can quickly learn how to paddle along slowly - it's almost like walking on the water. Restaruant at Miyagawa Port Joshua loves Japanese food, because it's so healthy and there's such a great variety. In Miyagawa port, there's a great little place for lunch. "Habanori set lunch" is so good at this restaurant. Sabori-Shop at Akiya In Miura they have a great natural environment with the sea, the hills and rivers. It's a great place for a little break from everyday life. Mr Sangawa calls it "sabori." He organize various kinds of "sabori" tours. It could involve napping on one of these hammocks, a kayak trip to a deserted island for a meal; or going out for a walk on a full moon night. Hot Spa at Miura You can enjoy the open-air bath with its wonderful views, even if you're not staying at Kancho-sou. Mitsumugi's bread Mitsuhiro Kageyama produces a range of different bread and cakes at his bakery. Naturally, they're made using the wheat he harvests from his fields. Misaki Morning market The Sunday morning market at Misaki is one of the best-known local attractions. The stalls here sell fresh produce and other foods from all over the peninsula. The Misaki morning market takes place every Sunday from 5 to 9 AM in front of Misaki Sakana Center. Slackline at Hayama Park Slacklining originated as a technique fo
This week's "journeys in japan," heads 1000 kilometers north of Tokyo to the sea of Okhotsk off the northeastern coast of Hokkaido. From January to March, the area becomes a vast blanket of ice floes. The ice amassing and drifting from Siberia on the currents to Hokkaido are called "drift ice." Our traveler JJ enjoys the wintry splendor of ice floes and other icy pleasures in the area.
Kunisaki lies in the northeast of Oita Prefecture. It was an important stopping point on ancient shipping routes. After Buddhism was imported from the Asian mainland, it was fused with indigenous animistic beliefs, giving rise to a distinctive culture that can still be found here in this mountainous peninsula. Since ancient times, the Kunisaki Peninsula in Kyushu has been a center of religious worship. For centuries, the local people here have carved statues out of the rock and stone as an expression of their Buddhist faith. This area is not so well known, but it's starting to become popular among trekkers as a peaceful destination with a special mystical flavor. For over 1,300 years, a colorful festival has been held in Kunisaki to celebrate the arrival of spring. On this edition of Journeys in Japan, Haruka sets out to explore the ancient Buddhist heritage found in these mountains. Traveler: Haruka Orth
Kumamoto-located in central Kyushu-is a regional economic and political hub. The city's symbol is the Kumamoto Castle, rebuilt faithfully to its original state 400 years ago. Our reporter Nelson visits an old shopping district. He enjoys local delicacies and meets warm creative people in an emerging arts district.
The city of Matsue lies close to the Sea of Japan coast, in Shimane Prefecture. It's a place filled with history, and has a castle built 400 years ago. Since ancient times, there have been numerous legends about gods and strange beings that have been passed down in this region. Lake Shinji is one of the symbols of Matsue and a source of pride for the local people. It was also an inspiration for a writer from Europe who lived in this tranquil city many decades ago. Lafcadio Hearn came to Matsue 120 years ago to work as an English teacher. He met his wife here and adopted the Japanese name, Koizumi Yagumo. On this edition of Journeys in Japan, Haruka Orth explores this traditional city. She gets dressed up in a gorgeous kimono. Then she takes a ride on a sightseeing boat on the moat by the ancient castle. And she visits a shrine that's believed to help people find love and marriage. Haruka also meets two people who have been deeply influenced by Lafcadio Hearn. Traveler: Haruka Orth
The destination of this time's journey is Cape Muroto in Kochi Prefecture, that is based at the southeastern corner of the Shikoku Main Island. Jutting out significantly into the Pacific Ocean, Cape Muroto enjoys a mild climate throughout the year, thanks to the warm Kuroshio Current flowing near the shore. Hawaiian-born Michael Rivas visited Cape Muroto in early March to get the feel of early spring. At first, Michael stops at the rocky area covering the very end of the cape. This area is part the Muroto Anan Kaigan Quasi-National Park which was registered in 1964. Varied configurations of the earth's surfaces and unusually-shaped rocks sticking out from the ground were raised from the seabed over a period of 100 billion years by the dynamic tectonic activity. Michael asks landscape photographer Hakushi Maeda to introduce him the charms of Cape Muroto's local nature. The most active industry on and around Cape Muroto is fishery. The Kuroshio Current flowing off the cape brings a lot of blessings of the sea. Muroto has a wide variety of fish dishes. Among them, Michael finds dried moray eel especially interesting. In fact, the local people have a dietary tradition to eat the grotesque-looking fish also called "the gang of the sea," The area along the coast is a habitat of one of Japan's wild plants called "hamaazami." Michael goes out to the beach to collect hamaazami together with Ms. Nakagawa whom he meets in the Takaoka District. Later, he has a chance to try home-made cuisines using wild hamaazami to enjoy one of the best tastes of spring at Cape Muroto. Finally, Michael reaches Kiragawa Town, which is characterized by beautiful ancient storages finished with plasters. Kiragawa Town was once thrived with a trade of bincho-tan charcoal. The ancient section of the town was designated as one of the country's traditional architectures preservation district in 1997. It holds a grand doll festival on the 3rd of March every year, in which visitors are fre
On this edition of "journeys in japan," our reporter JJ visits Kawazu and Shimoda, in Shizuoka Prefecture, in pursuit of typical Japanese spring delicacies. The popular tourist destination is about three hours from Tokyo. First, JJ tries his hand at fly-fishing on the Kawazu River. He's after amago, which is in season. His next stop is a wasabi farm. Grated wasabi is typically served with sashimi and other dishes. But JJ gets to experience new ways of eating grated wasabi, as well as its leaves. He then moves on to a bamboo forest, where he looks for takenoko bamboo shoots just poking out of the ground. Bamboo shoots, with their distinctive texture and slightly sweet flavor, are considered a seasonal delicacy and make their way into a variety of dishes. Nature and food lovers will enjoy this show! Kawazu River access: From Kawazu Station on the Izu Kyuko line, it's a short walk to the river. Purchase a day-permit for 1,000 yen-proceeds go to conserving fish habitats. For more information on prime fishing points and places where permits can be purchased-indicated by fish-shaped icons-visit the website below. Amago season: from March 1 to October 31. Ayu (sweet fish) season: from first week of June to December 31. A word on amago dining: While there are over 50 places to stay near the Kawazu River, none serves amago on a regular basis. JJ stayed at an inn that serves amago seasonally-and only when the owner is able to catch the fish! Wasabi farm access: From Kawazu Station, head toward the mountains on National Route 414 where you will find several shops selling hon-wasabi (fresh wasabi), as well as wasabi leaves chopped and mixed with sake lees. Fresh wasabi is nothing like what is sold in tubes or powder form (which may contain no hon-wasabi at all!). Hon-wasabi is both pungent and sweet. Bamboo shoot digging: The season for takenoko bamboo shoots is generally from April to mid-May. In the fall, shihochiku bamboo, a slender shoot can be harvest
In this week's journeys in japan, we visit the Seki city in Gifu Prefecture. Seki city beats number one production of cutlery in Japan. At this time traveler Johan Gathright visits a city known for its cutlery industry and discovers its technical mastery and beauty. At first, he visited a shop where you can have buy all different kind of cutlery. And also you can sharp kitchen knife which you bring in. In Seki city, Japanese sword making has a long history, dating back to about 780 years ago. The technique and skills of sword making have been passed down across the centuries in Seki. The amount of production declined greatly in line with modernization but its mastery skill is still alive in today's modern cutlery industry. He visits a kitchen knife crafts man who has been making kitchen knife in traditional method for more than 60 years. He also went to the knife Museum where 1500 knives from around the world are displayed. This museum also offers hand-on knife making experience where you can put together knife parts and hone blade to complete your own knife. Along with kitchen knives, Seki City is a major production site of scissors. He visited the factory manufactures nine types of scissors. This factory making the special scissors used in fashion industry called "pinking shears". There are only two factories in Japan which can produce this kind of scissors. At the end he visited a master sword smith Kanefusa Fujiwara. Now on their 25th generation, the family's name and sword-making skills have been passed on to generations for almost 600 years. Traveler: John Gathright (University professor)
Kobe has an attractive shopping street that streches out long underneath an elevated railway track in the central part of the city. Measuring two kilometers in length and two meters in width, the shopping street is comprised of two narrow stretches each going to the opposite directions. The one in the east is "Sannomiya Kokashita Shopping Street", which is lined by a wide variety of restaurants and shops, including those dealing with trendy fashion, used clothes, and accessories. The other is "Motomachi Kokashita Shopping Street" that stretches to the west and is usually dubbed as "Motokoh." Originated in a black market from the postwar era, the shopping street thrived dynamically in the 1960s with many dock workers and sailors of foreign ships. In the present days, the shopping district grows increasingly distinctive as it goes toward the west. The west half attracts middle-aged and old shoppers as well, thanks to a number of shops that sell antiquities, vintage electric appliances, and used clothes. Unfortunately, the number of vacant shops is on an increase here because of the trend of time. But people from the kokashita shopping street are willing to organize new events to help cheer up the whole of Kobe with the power of art. The shopping street is free of any formalities. You can feel easy to go out in your everyday clothes and associate with local shop owners and customers. Among many unusual places is a restaurant which is always crowded with regular customers who repeat coming back almost every day. There are also shops where you can expect to find one of the rarest items. One of other shops may give you a chance to recall part of the memory from your prime time, with its merchandise. NHK World reporter George Bourdaniotis walks through the shopping street under Kobe's elevated railway track to bring you a lot of information.
Since ancient times people have made been making pilgrimages here to worship at Kotohira Shrine. Commonly known as Kompira-san, this shrine was thought to bring good luck, offer protection for sailors and assure abundant harvests. On this edition of Journeys in Japan, Haruka Orth explores the area around Kotohira Shrine, which seems to have changed very little since the days of old. According to ancient records, the shrine was established a thousand years ago. Originally, the deity here was worshipped for safety at sea. But from the 17th century, it started to attract many pilgrims from across Japan. Even today, 3 million people a year visit Kompira-san. The shrine itself lies halfway up an outcropping known as Mount Zozu, at an altitude of 521 meters. There are many smaller religious sites on the route before reaching the main shrine. Pilgrims believe their prayers will be answered just by climbing to the top. This pilgrimage became very popular about 300 years ago. In those days it took about a month to get there from Edo - as Tokyo used to be called. Traveling by foot and boat, this was a once-in-a-lifetime trip for most visitors. Haruka sets off by train again to visit a nearby town that has its own traditional specialty. This area is Japan's top producer of bonsai pine trees. They have been grown here for almost two centuries. The bonsai trees are planted in shallow trays. Over the centuries, intricate techniques were developed in Japan to produce these beautiful examples of nature in miniature. Gardeners carefully prune and train the branches, to create exactly the shape of tree they want. Quietly spending time tending bonsai trees - this has been a traditional pastime in Japan since the days of old. Traveler: Haruka Orth
This week on "journeys in japan" we visit the Shimanto River, which is considered to be one of the country's most beautiful. It meanders nearly 200 kilometers before it finally feeds into the Pacific Ocean. Our reporter Vincent Giry takes in its rare beauty and enjoys outdoor pleasures along it.
Nakasendo was the old mountain road connecting Edo, today's Tokyo, to Kyoto. The 530-kilometer stretch of road was dotted with 69 post towns. Our reporter, JJ, walks along a preserved section of the Nakasendo and stops at Tsumago, a beautifully restored post town. He spends the night at a venerable inn and meets people who treasure a traditional way of life. This edition of journeys in japan features a walk back in time along an Edo era road.
The era of the samurai in Japan ended in 1868 with the Meiji Restoration, marking the start of the country's modernization. One of the powerful forces in this movement was the Satsuma domain - the area now known as Kagoshima. The warriors of Satsuma were renowned for their fierceness as fighters. That samurai spirit still lives on in modern-day Kagoshima. Kagoshima lies at the southern tip of Kyushu. It has a mild climate year-round, with warmer average temperatures than most other parts of Japan. It's a volcanic area, with many active volcanoes and abundant hot springs. The city of Kagoshima has been nicknamed the "Naples of the East" because both cities have bayside locations and have active volcanoes close-by. In fact, Kagoshima City and Naples actually have a sister-city tie-up.
In this journeys in japan, Gow takes a trip to Mikuni-cho of Sakai City, Fukui Prefecture, in search of snow crabs, the king of winter delicacies. Mikuni is famous for its delicious fresh crabs, being close to good fishing grounds. When the snow crab fishing season starts on November 6, many people travel great distances to Mikuni specifically for the crabs. Gow first has a taste of boiled crab at one of the restaurants on the busy shopping street, and is amazed at how delicious it is, like something she's never tasted before. Then, at an old ryokan inn, acclaimed for serving top-class crab dishes, she is treated with crab sashimi and grilled crab. She also wanders through the old Mikuni townscape and gets to meet the local people to enjoy a delightful, heart-warming time.
Since ancient times, people in Japan have produced a form of ink known as sumi, which is used for calligraphy and traditional ink wash painting. Prepared in the form of ink sticks, sumi has to be diluted in water to create a black liquid. Until about 100 years ago, sumi was one of the most popular items sold at stationery stores. Today, ink sticks are rarely used in everyday life, but they are an essential aspect of traditional calligraphy. Shodo, the art of writing kanji characters with sumi ink, remains very popular. On this edition of Journeys in Japan, John Gathright travels to Suzuka, in Mie Prefecture, where sumi has been produced for centuries. He meets a traditional ink-stick master craftsman and discovers the vibrant art of calligraphy.
On this edition of "journeys in japan" we visit the southwestern foot of Yatsugatake, a chain of mountains extending 30 kilometers from north to south on the border of Nagano and Yamanashi Prefectures. About 5,000 years ago, a prehistoric culture known as the Jomon flourished around the lower slopes. Remnants of the Jomon have been discovered at more than 300 sites in the area. Our reporter Peter MacMillan meets residents of mountainous communities, discovers their way of life, and traces the footsteps of the Jomon people hidden behind it. At museums adjacent to excavation sites, he marvels at the artistic quality of objects created by the Jomon people, such as clay figurines and earthenware vessels. He also treks through the Kirigamine plateau to reach its highest point-Kurumayama (1625m), enjoying the beautiful natural scenery on the way. Researchers believe the Jomon people visited the plateau frequently.
Our destination is Takayama City in Gifu Prefecture. Our reporter Charles Glover discovers the city's traditions by sightseeing on foot. The popular tourist destination is also a major production center of Japanese rice wine, called sake. Its many local breweries have succeeded in creating premium sake thanks to fine climate, water and rice. Charles visits a brewery to observe a stage of sake production.
The city of Kamakura lies just south of Tokyo. From around 800 years ago, it was the capital of the samurai generals who ruled Japan. During that period, Zen Buddhism was introduced to Japan by priests from China. The philosophy and meditation practices of Zen were embraced by the samurai warriors, and many temples were built among the hills of Kamakura. This gave rise to the distinctive culture that can still be found in the city to this day. Just a few steps away from Kamakura's main street, you find yourself in narrow alleys where you can still feel traces of the city's past. Because of its long history and culture, Kamakura has been nominated as a UNESCO World Heritage site. On this edition of Journeys in Japan, Rosa Yum explores Kamakura when the autumn foliage is at its most beautiful, and visits several of the ancient religious sites in the city. She is shown how to practice Zen meditation and is introduced to shojin-ryori, the vegetarian cuisine served in the temples. She also observes kyudo, a spiritual practice based on the same kind of bows and arrows that were used by the samurai warriors.
On this "journeys in japan" our reporter Deborah Ten experiences the rings in the New Year's in northern Japan. She visits Oga Peninsula, in Akita Prefecture, to see an unusual New Year's Eve rite. During the folk ritual, known as namahage, demon-like incarnations of the mountain gods go from home to home in the Oga area.
This week we journey to the foot of Mt. Fuji in winter to discover the area's majestic nature. The sacred mountain erupted many times in ancient times, creating lava beds. The snowmelt and rainfall that penetrate the lava and collect underground eventually return to the surface as spring water. Shimizu-cho in Shizuoka Prefecture-some 40 kilometers from Mt. Fuji-has daily as much as one million tons of spring water coming from the mountain. The water is a precious blessing of nature for local people living in the area. Cveto Podlogar from Slovenia visits superb viewing points of Mt. Fuji and follows the flow of its spring water.
Honjima is one of the Shiwaku group of islands in the Seto Inland Sea, between Japan's mainland Honshu and Shikoku. It lies off the beaten track, but there's plenty to see there. Although it is a small island with a circumference of only 16 kilometers, Honjima boasts numerous temples, shrines and towns with beautiful traditional architecture. In ancient times, the islanders were skilled navigators who knew their way through the treacherous waters of the Inland Sea. They later turned their nautical skills to maritime trade, gaining them great wealth. Radio DJ Chris Glenn is a history enthusiast. On this edition of "journeys in japan", he explores the history and culture of Honjima and discovers handsome townscapes that have changed little for more than a century.
The Sanriku Coast of northeastern Japan is a beautiful area with stunning scenery. It was devastated by the great earthquake and tsunami of March 2011. But life is gradually returning to normal and people are rebuilding their communities and their lives. On this edition of Journeys in Japan, JJ returns to visit another stretch of the Sanriku Coast. His first destination is the Kita-Yamazaki Cliffs in Iwate Prefecture, the most spectacular section of this scenic coastline. He is taken out on a boat by a local fisherman to observe the cliffs close-up, from the sea. Next, JJ takes the train further north on the Sanriku Railway. He travels in a special car that has seats warmed by kotatsu under-table heaters. In Hachinohe, Aomori Prefecture, JJ stays at a family-run inn that is famous for the quality of its food. He samples plenty of local seafood. He also meets with people living in this area, to find out more about their lives, and the fertile ocean that has always supported them.
Juhyo Forest Kanjiki Trekking Tours (Zao Onsen Ski Resort) A mountaineering instructor leads tours through Zao's famous juhyo (ice monster) forest. Participants wear traditional wa-kanjiki snowshoes. Juhyo Illuminations During the winter, the juhyo (ice monsters) are illuminated in the evening with colorful lights. Season: December to mid-March (mostly at weekends). During the full moon, a special Moonlight Walk is held, giving visitors a chance to walk through the ice monsters. For more information about Zao Onsen Ski Resort: Zao Onsen Tourist Association (9 a.m.-6 p.m.) Yamagata City Tourist Association Zao Onsen Located 800 meters above sea level, Zao Onsen has the feel of a traditional hot spring resort. There are 8 hot spring baths in the area where visitors can bathe (note: one is closed in winter). -Shinzaemon-no-yu 905 Zao Onsen-Kawamae, Yamagata City, Yamagata Pref. Lodge Scole This ski lodge has been welcoming visitors for 40 years. It has a cozy atmosphere and English is spoken, making it popular with visitors from other countries. Guests are welcome to bring their dogs. Ski tours in Zao Onsen can be arranged (advance reservations required). Open only during winter months. 746 Zao Onsen, Yamagata City, Yamagata Pref. Miyagi Zao Kokeshi Kan (museum) Wooden kokeshi dolls have been made as souvenirs for hot-spring visitors in the Tohoku region for over 150 years. The kokeshi made in Togatta have large heads and slender, cylindrical bodies. This museum in Togatta Hot Spring displays 5,000 kokeshi from many parts of Japan. Visitors can also try to paint their own kokeshi. Admission: 300 yen, 150 yen (junior high or younger) Kokeshi painting: 750 yen Access: 7 minutes on foot from Togatta Onsen Yunomachi bus stop (Miyakoh Bus) Shinchi Kokeshi no Sato This "village" has 10 workshops where traditional kokeshi dolls are made. This is where Kazuo Sato works. The houses here have traditional thatched roofs, giving it the feel o
Tottori is a major folk craft center in Japan. Physician Shoya Yoshida (1898-1972) was a member of the mingei folk art movement, which pursued "beauty in utilitarian objects" made by unknown craftspeople. He opened a shop in Tottori to display traditional craft products, such as pottery, woodwork and other items. And he helped revive many folk crafts by updating traditional designs. On this trip, our reporter Dario Ponissi travels across Tottori Prefecture from east to west to discover the world of Shoya Yoshida's folk crafts. He meets the head potter at a kiln in Tottori city where Yoshida commissioned designs. In Kurayoshi city, he visits a woodcarving workshop where impressive chairs are handcrafted. In Yonago city, he encounters gorgeous, yet functional traditional umbrellas. Dario, an opera producer, experiences the "beauty in the utilitarian" of Tottori crafts.
Since ancient times, formal gardens have offered a distinctive expression of Japan's traditional aesthetic. Often featuring lush greenery, bodies of water and seemingly random arrangements of rock, these gardens can be viewed as nature in microcosm. Our reporter is Joseph Cali, a designer who has published books on Japanese gardens. On this edition of Journeys in Japan, Joseph visits Shikoku. He discovers the beauty of the natural environment - and the way it is reflected in two very contrasting traditional gardens.
In this episode, photogravure artist Peter Miller travels to Ibusuki City, a hot spring town at the southern tip of Kyushu, in search of spring. Ibusuki has a warm climate and more than 800 hot springs. The first place Peter visits is a field of nanohana mustard flowers, and he feels the breath of spring in the bright yellow blossoms. He then visits a field of soramame broad beans, a spring vegetable, and is struck by the lushness of the fields, spreading out like a green carpet. After enjoying the colors of spring, Peter then visits the hot springs. He goes for a sunamushi sand bath, which is heated by the hot springs on the beach, and feels the greatness of mother nature. At Unagi Onsen in the mountains, he is impressed with how the people use the steam vents found all over the village for their cooking. The last stop on his itinerary is a factory making katsuobushi, dried bonito. Katsuobushi is an important ingredient that serves as the foundation of Japanese cuisine, and Peter admires the profoundness of its method of production.
Oita Prefecture, in southwest Japan, is an area with beautiful natural scenery and many sacred sites. It also boasts a remarkable number of Buddhist statues, in out-of-the-way rural locations. Mark Schumacher has a deep interest in the religious statuary of Japan. He travels throughout the country and posts his discoveries on his web site. On this edition of Journeys in Japan, Mark visits Oita Prefecture and visits some important Buddhist sites close to 3 stations along the JR Nippo Main Line.
Our destination is the cosmopolitan city of Kobe in Hyogo Prefecture. Actor Charles Glover discovers its unique culture of jazz. In fact, the city is considered the birthplace of the genre in Japan. Being a prosperous port city, Western fads were introduced early on including jazz, which quickly took off.
Close to Tokyo but far from the city, there are great places to visit in Japan if you're traveling with young children. On this edition of Journeys in Japan, the Koivumaa family from Finland - Mikko, Elisa and their children Eero and Eeva - are making a short trip to Minami-Boso, in southern Chiba Prefecture. This coastal area has great seafoods and products that you can buy at local markets, so you can prepare your own meals. The climate is mild and the air is clean, and there are lots to see and do - for both adults and children. Traveling as a family in Japan isn't just easy, it's lots of fun.
The Amami Islands are subtropical. Blanketed in dense forests and surrounded by emerald waters, they are located about 400 kilometers from Kagoshima Prefecture in southern Kyushu. These islands, isolated from the continent long ago by tectonic activity, are full of rare indigenous flora and fauna. But the animals and plants are not the only thing that the forests of Amami have nurtured. They have also shaped a distinctive culture there. One example is the Amami folk song, called Shima-uta. In this edition of Journeys in Japan, Naotomo Umewaka explores the mystical forests of Amami, as well as the music and spirit of the people on the islands.
In the old days, the islands of southwestern Japan (present-day Okinawa Prefecture) formed an independent nation, called the Kingdom of Ryukyu. A vibrant culture flourished in those islands and people lived in harmony with the subtropical climate. Sophisticated textiles were developed as clothing for the royalty and the aristocracy. They were dyed in a style known as bingata. To this day, the vivid colors of bingata fabrics are one of the most beautiful and elegant examples of Okinawan culture. Teodora Vegh came to Okinawa from Hungary 5 years ago to discover the traditional culture and to learn the techniques of bingata dyeing. On this edition of Journeys in Japan, Teodora explores the history and long tradition of bingata, and the way it is being adapted and used in contemporary design.
Surrounded by pristine water and coral reefs, Ishigaki Island lies at the far southwestern tip of Japan, around 1,900 kilometers from Tokyo. The largest of the Yaeyama islands, it is part of Okinawa Prefecture. Many tourists visit Ishigaki throughout the year to enjoy its beautiful cobalt blue seascapes. Every aspect of the islanders' lives is closely connected to the sea. Since ancient times, the local people have believed there is another world on the other side of the ocean called Nirai-Kanai, and that all life comes from it and eventually returns there. Teodora Vegh came to Okinawa from Hungary 5 years ago to study the traditional culture. On this edition of Journeys in Japan, she meets with a number of Ishigaki islanders, and finds out about the strong connection the local people feel for the sea.
The historic city of Kamakura lies about 1 hour south of Tokyo by train. At the end of the 12th century, Kamakura was chosen to be the administrative capital by the samurai warlord Minamoto no Yoritomo. There are many corners of the city that evoke the time when Kamakura first flourished. Every year in April, a major festival is held in Kamakura. One of the highlights are a dance performance re-enacting a historical episode that took place 800 years ago. The shogun, Yoritomo, had fallen out with his younger brother, Yoshitsune, who fled the city on pain of death, leaving behind his lover, a court dancer called Shizuka-gozen. Forced to perform for the shogun, she expressed through her dance her undying love for Yoshitsune. To this day, local dancers recreate this tragic episode from Kamakura's early history. Another cultural tradition with a long history in Kamakura is the local style of lacquerware. Known as Kamakura-bori, it dates back to the days of the master craftsmen who carved the statues and altar surrounds in the Buddhist temples in the city's golden age. On this edition of Journeys in Japan, Rosa Yum returns to Kamakura to explore the city further. She meets a young dancer who will perform the famous dance, Shizuka no Mai. She also visits a lacquerware workshop where the 29th generation owner is the first woman to become the head of the family business.
The Kofu Basin, in Yamanashi Prefecture, lies north of Mt. Fuji. In mid-April, when peach flowers blossom, the landscape becomes a carpet of pink. Over time, many farmers here switched from silk farming to fruit cultivation, taking advantage of demand, climate and geography. Now often called a "kingdom of fruits" Yamanashi is the largest domestic peach producer. On this edition of "Journeys in Japan," German national Lana Bergmann, who is studying film, visits Kofu when the peach flowers are in full bloom. And she is shown how farmers produce the delicious fruit. She then heads to a nearby mountain village to spend the night in a house built more than a century ago. Villagers tell her about a Japanese way of life in harmony with nature and share the wisdom that made it possible. This journey introduces viewers to beautiful rural landscapes.
In this edition of Journeys in Japan, musician JJ enjoys the beautiful snowy scenery of the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route, one of the foremost mountain resorts in Japan. His first stop is Tateyama Station at the foot of the mountain. From there he takes the cable car, ropeway and buses to reach near one of the peaks of the 3,000 meters mountain range. The 18-meters-high snow corridor near the peak is the highlight of this tour, and it is an overwhelming sight of towering snow. There is also a hotel near the peak - the highest altitude hotel in Japan - and after enjoying a sumptuous meal, he goes for a walk to see the sun set over the snowy mountain. He gasps at the sight of the mountainside changing shades from orange to pink, red and purple. The following morning, he joins an exclusive sunrise tour for the hotel guests, and is struck by the beauty of the sun showing its face from beyond the peaks of the mountains. He also visits Toyama Port to enjoy the fresh bounty of the sea.
The indigenous Ainu lives in Hokkaido, Japan's most northern main island. Our reporter, Shakuhachi player John Kaizan Neptune, visits the shores of Lake Akan to experience Ainu culture, including its music. He meets a master wood carver of forest animals and learns from him about Ainu life in olden times. He also discovers the musical instrument called the Mukkuri. From its evocative sounds he gets a sense of the Ainu's worship of nature.
Haiku are brief poetic snapshots that encapsulate in a few words the essence of a moment, be it the beauty of nature or just a scene from daily life. This form of poetry, born in Japan, is now becoming known around the world. Writer and photographer Kit Pancoast Nagamura has lived in Japan over 20 years. She expresses the beauty of Japan through her lens and also in her poetry. In all, she has written more than 3,000 of her own haiku. On this edition of Journeys in Japan, Kit travels through the north of Japan, following in the footsteps of the 17th century haiku poet Matsuo Basho, who described his journeys in his book, "The Narrow Road to the Deep North". Through her haiku and photographs, Kit captures the historic places she visits and beautiful natural scenes of north Japan in spring and early-summer
Mt. Fuji was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2013. Hakone and Izu are popular resorts near the majestic mountain. Our reporter, American actor Charles Glover, enjoys historical hotels in the area that offers world-class service and cuisine. He savors the serene beauty of a traditional tatami guest room and relaxes in an open-air onsen hot spring surrounded by nature.
Osaka is a vibrant city, full of warm people. But that is only one aspect of Japan's 3rd largest city. This edition of Journeys in Japan explores Osaka through its art. Art flourished alongside Osaka's success as a leading commercial hub. Our traveler is woodblock printmaker David Bull, an artist fascinated by Japanese ukiyo-e woodblock prints. He embarks on a journey to encounter Osaka's beauty from past to present.
The Oki Islands lie in the Sea of Japan off the coast of Shimane Prefecture. For countless centuries, people have lived here along with their cattle, and they have developed a very distinctive culture. Our reporter is David Chart, a writer from Britain who has lived in Japan for 10 years. On this edition of Journeys in Japan, David travels to the Oki Islands, to explore the culture and terrain, and to get a taste of life on these remote islands.
The Hidaka area on the southwestern coast of Hokkaido is famous for its racehorses. This is where many of the most famous Japanese racehorses were born, raised and trained. On this edition of Journeys in Japan, Daniela Shiga travels to Hidaka to see the way people live alongside horses. Even though she has loved horses and riding all her life, this is the first experience for her to see and touch a racehorse close-up. She visits a large ranch where the racehorses are allowed to wander freely. Owner Shigeyuki Okada says this is the secret to raising horses that are strong and healthy. Next Daniela gets to look behind the scenes at a stable. She meets a talented young jockey who works hard every day to improve his understanding of the horses he rides, and build up a relationship with them. She also enjoys the warm hospitality offered at a local guesthouse. Through her journey, she gets to see the important role that horses play in the lives of people in this area.
Japan's Tsugaru Shamisen is taking off in North America and Europe today. Fans of the lute-type instrument are captivated by its dynamic sound, produced by striking thick strings with a plectrum. On Journeys in Japan, our reporter JJ, visits the heart of Japan's soul music - the Tsugaru region of Aomori Prefecture. Its main city, Hirosaki, has a number of folk-music bars, called minyo izakaya, where local musicians play Tsugaru Shamisen every night. JJ catches a performance at one of the city's most popular bars. Later he sets out on a trip to the birthplace of Tsugaru Shamisen to learn about its roots. Kanagi is also home to a spiritual site lined with hundreds of jizo stone statues. Jizo is a Bodhisattva that cares for the deceased. As a music producer and performing artist, JJ is especially drawn to Tsugaru Shamisen. After meeting local players and hearing about the history of Tsugaru's mesmerizing sounds, JJ is inspired to reassess his own style of performing.
The Seto Inland Sea is surrounded by 3 of Japan's 4 main islands - Honshu, Shikoku and Kyushu. An international art festival called the Setouchi Triennale takes place on several of the 727 islands scattered across the sea. Our traveler this time is documentary film director Soraya Umewaka. She first stops by Ogijima Island, where she discovers functional artworks. They are colorful "onba" strollers, which residents use to transport items along narrow streets. She next visits Ibukijima Island, which is famous for its dried sardines called "iriko". There she appreciates the installation, "Unsinkable Ship", which represents the dynamism of schools of fish. Finally, she takes in Teshima - an Island that was ravaged by illegal industrial waste disposal. Recovered from its negative image, Soraya finds world-class art, rejuvenated nature and delicious cuisine prepared with local ingredients.
Ise Jingu (Grand Shrine of Ise) is one of the most important and most revered Shinto shrines in all Japan. Founded over 1,300 years ago, it lies in the east of Mie Prefecture, surrounded by unspoiled nature. Since ancient times, the buildings of the central sanctuary have been rebuilt every 20 years, alternating between adjacent sites. This year, 2013, the shrine will be moved for the 62nd time. Manjot Bedi is a creative director who lives and works in Japan. He has visited Ise Jingu on numerous occasions, and since 10 years ago he has also worked on public relations projects for the shrine. On this episode of Journeys in Japan, Manjot explores this majestic power spot, to gain a deeper understanding of its significance and the special energy that can be felt there.
Yakushima was registered as an UNESCO World Natural Heritage site 20 years ago. Though small, the island has mountains rising more than 1,000 meters. Elevation differences have created a unique climate zone allowing for 1,900 species of flora from subtropical to subalpine. The island also receives significant rainfall; so much so that people joke it rains 35 days a month. Blanketed in primeval forest, Yakushima attracts visitors from all over the world. Our reporter is Peter Skov, a Canadian photographer living in Japan for 12 years. He has a passion for Japan's mountains and has made them the subject of his work. He and a guide climb Miyanoura-dake, which is 1,936 meters high, making it the tallest mountain not only on Yakushima, but also Kyushu. Near the summit, they visit a small shrine where the god of Miyanoura-dake is venerated. On the descent, they visit the island's most famous attraction, the Jomon Sugi. The massive cedar tree is thought to be more than 7000 years old. Peter ventures on his own to a traditional summer festival. He also visits nesting grounds for sea turtles. Yakushima is the northern most spawning point for sea turtles. He witnesses how the increase in tourism is threatening their early lives. On Journeys in Japan, Peter focuses his lens on Yakushima's primeval forests, its soaring mountains and its sea turtle spawning grounds.
In the 17th century, porcelain known as Imari ware was exported from Japan to Europe despite the country's isolation policy. An elegant style called Kakiemon especially astonished people around the world for its vivid colors on a lustrous white body. Our traveler, Kristina Mar, visits Arita and Imari, where these porcelain pieces originated, and meets Hiroshi Sakaida, the head of the Kakiemon family. He will succeed his father, the 14th Kakiemon Sakaida, who passed away this year. Hiroshi shows Kristina the quarry at Izumiyama and the spectacular scenery there, which holds the secret of the gorgeous Kakiemon white. In Arita, she learns about a new project underway to share ceramic production methods with artists from other countries. She also visits a kiln run by a family who has passed down their techniques for more than 300 years in a mountainous village in Imari. There she explores the essence of their craftsmanship and traditions. Kristina is a ceramic artist from Portugal who has been living in Japan for 20 years. During her journey, she comes in contact with the special sensibility of the Japanese
Kasumigaura is the 2nd largest lake in Japan. For generations, people around the lake have made a living from fishing its abundant waters and farming the fertile soil to produce crops such as lotus root. Just an hour and a half by train from central Tokyo, Lake Kasumigaura is also considered one of the 100 most beautiful places in Japan. Erin Fowler came to Japan from the US 3 years ago, and works as an English teacher at an elementary school in Ibaraki Prefecture. On this episode of Journeys in Japan, Erin visits the Kasumigaura area for the first time. She meets with fishermen and farmers who live there, and connects with the people whose lives are so deeply rooted in the water and land around Lake Kasumigaura.
For over 300 years, people in the town of Etchu-Yatsuo, in Toyama Prefecture, have held a festival in early September. The 11 local communities get together to hold a traditional festival, called "Owara Kaze no Bon" to pray to the god of the wind for calm weather and bountiful crops. The local people parade through their neighborhoods all night long, dancing to music played on stringed instruments, kokyu and shamisen. Only unmarried men and women up to their age of 25 can take part. On this episode of Journeys in Japan, our traveler is an Iranian student, Sara Ariafar. She meets with local people as they prepare for the big day...a 24-year-old woman who will be dancing for the last time, and kokyu players who are keeping on their long family tradition.
Deep in the mountains of Toyama Prefecture, not far from the coast of the Sea of Japan, lies the Gokayama region. The traditional architecture and culture of the villages in this area have been carefully preserved to the present day. That is why it has been recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. One of the villages is Ainokura. It is famous for its traditional houses built in a style known as gassho-zukuri. The steep angle of the roofs was essential because of the heavy snowfall in this region. Buried under more than 2 meters of snow, the village used to be cut off from the outside world each winter. The local people developed a deep understanding to survival in this challenging environment. They also created a distinctive culture that has been kept alive to the present day. Some of the gassho-zukuri houses are now used as guesthouses, where visitors can stay and observe the traditional customs. The style of dancing and music known as Kokiriko Bushi has been handed down for around 1,400 years. Originally a form of prayer for bountiful harvests, it is thought to be the oldest style of performing art in Japan. This region faces a serious problem of depopulation. Today, there are 23 households in the village of Ainokura. In all, about 50 people live there. But young people are starting to move up from urban areas, attracted by the rich natural environment.
Kumamoto Prefecture is known as the "Land of Fire", with the active volcano Mt. Aso as its icon. Since ancient times, people have feared the volcano, yet at the same time learned how to live in harmony with it. Our traveler, tea master Randy Channell, starts by going to the top of Mt. Aso. He feels the pulse of the living earth on his first ever visit to a volcanic crater. At a Shinto shrine closely associated with Mt. Aso, he observes a ritual carried out for 2,500 years. In the Hitakishinji a fire is kept burning for 59 days to warm the local god. The people pray to the god so that rice crops will not be damaged by frost. Every year, one of the girls from the community is chosen to tend the fire. Randy watches an 8-year-old who plays the important role this year. At the end of his journey Randy meets a sword smith dedicated to forging Japanese swords using a traditional iron-making method called tatara. Genrokuro Matsunaga, who has made more than 800 swords in his career, says he wants to pass down Japanese culture through his work. Randy watches how the skilled artisan forges a sword, and then tries his hand at a traditional martial art, using a real sword.
Kagura is a ritual dance of Shinto, the indigenous faith of Japan. Since ancient times, it has been offered to the gods in thanks for the blessings of nature. In the Iwami region of Shimane Prefecture, Kagura has developed independently of other styles. Contemporary dancer, Alessandra Lupi visits a small village to explore the many dimensions of this magical performing art. Everything she encounters in the village is completely new to her. She stays in the home of a local couple and experiences preparing a local dish. At a kagura rehearsal, she sees a scene from the popular play, Orochi, and is captivated. Orochi is based on the myth of a giant evil serpent with 8 heads. A god finds a way to calm the serpent with sake and slays it. Through her interactions with the performers, who are passing on the tradition to the next generation, she contemplates the meaning of dance. And so she asks to join a local kagura group to dance in the role of Orochi in an autumn festival. Alessandra searches for the connection between kagura and the local way of life.
The word "Ninja" is known around the world. But the truth remains shrouded in mystery. This episode of Journeys in Japan features Iga in Mie Prefecture, the birthplace of famous clan of Ninja. Our traveler is William Reed, a master of the Japanese martial art of aikido, from the United States. He meets the descendants of actual Ninja family, learns the traditional skills of stealth that have been passed down the centuries, and explores the real story of the Ninja that lies behind the Hollywood stereotype in a completely new type of trip that combines history and action.
Kawagoe City in Saitama Prefecture, famous for the Kawagoe Festival with its dazzling floats, is only 30 minutes away by train from the center of Tokyo. Also known as Ko-Edo or Little Edo, it flourished with wealthy merchants who supported the prosperity of Edo (the old name of Tokyo). Each year, more than 6 million domestic and international tourists visit the old castle town that still has many historical buildings retaining the essence of the Edo period (17th to mid-19th centuries). The stunning Kawagoe Festival in October transports visitors back in time to another world. On this journey, our traveler, looking for a break from the hustle of his adopted-Tokyo, visits Kawagoe to enjoy the old Edo ambience. He visits the Shingashi River, which used to be the main water route between Kawagoe and Edo, and Kashiya Yokocho with the sweet, nostalgic aroma of candy. He also enjoys a performance by a theater troupe at a popular theater that has continued from the Edo period, and has the chance to see master craftsmen hand paint the family crests of Kawagoe merchants on paper lanterns at Kawagoe Chochin. He also lets his imagination wander back to the glorious days gone by at a high-end Japanese restaurant, which was once the private villa of a Kawagoe merchant. For the climax of the journey, he visits the Kawagoe Festival to enjoy the magnificent floats and masked figures dancing to pulsating music. This journey fully introduces the attractions of Ko-Edo Kawagoe, near Tokyo.
The cedar trees that are found on the mountainsides of Akita Prefecture, northern Japan, have long been prized for their timber. The slopes where they grow, in the basin of the Yoneshiro River, are considered as one of the 3 most beautiful forests in all Japan. The term "Akita Cedar" can only be used for the trees that have grown naturally in this area and are over 150 years old. Because of the harsh winter climate, these cedars develop slowly, and their timber has a beautiful grain and strength that is not found in cedars from other parts of Japan. The heartland of Akita cedars spans the area from Odate to Noshiro, in the prefecture. In this area, people have developed a culture that draws strongly on this timber, and have a deep appreciation for their natural environment. John Kaizan Neptune is an American musician who plays the shakuhachi, a traditional Japanese musical instrument made of bamboo. John makes his own shakuhachi, using bamboo that he cuts himself. This is part of his philosophy of "coexistence with nature". On this episode of Journeys in Japan, John visits this area to explore the cedar forests, and meet the people whose lives and culture owe so much to the prosperity brought about by the Akita cedars. Walking Tour of Akita Cedars in the Wild Visitors can join a tour to explore the forests of Akita Cedar, which are now quite scarce. Participants are taken to see the tallest Akita cedar tree, which is an estimated 280 years old and is so high that its top cannot be seen from ground level. In this place, it is hard not to feel the greatness of nature. Kimimachi Kankou Guide no Kai (Futatsui-machi Kankou Kyokai) Address: 109-10 Nakajima Kotsunagi-aza, Futatsui-machi, Noshiro City, Akita Pref.
Kiryu City of Gunma Prefecture is renowned for its textile industry. Kiryu Ori is produced using Jacquard looms for intricate, as well as colorful, kimono and obi sash designs. Model and actress Lemi Duncan explores the city, visiting a Kiryu Ori mill, a weaving workshop, and a bakery in a converted sawtooth roof mill. The distinctive roofs are typical of the textile factories that still remain in the city. She even ventures into the nightlife of Kiryu. She discovers new aspects of Japanese beauty as she gets up close to Kiryu Ori fabrics and meets the people who create them.
The traditional art of bonsai recreates intricate scenes of nature in miniature, often called "living art". It is now known and loved all over the world. The Omiya Bonsai Village is one of Japan's biggest centers for bonsai. It is located in Saitama Prefecture, just to the north of Tokyo. There are many bonsai nurseries there, run by bonsai masters. There is also a Bonsai Museum, which is the only public museum in the world devoted to the art. Kit Pancoast Nagamura is a photographer who also writes haiku poems. On this episode of Journeys in Japan, Kit discovers how these miniature trees are crafted. She talks to veteran enthusiasts and meets young people who are starting to learn the pleasure of cultivating bonsai. And she has a chance to make her very first bonsai.
The Goto Islands in the East China Sea, comprise over 140 islands. The priest Kukai, who was among envoys to China during the Tang Dynasty and brought esoteric Buddhism to Japan, stopped here first when he returned from his journey. The Goto Islands are also known for the underground Christians who maintained their faith throughout a long period of persecution. The influence of diverse cultures has formed a unique architectural landscape and way of life. Most tourists visit the Kamigoto area (mainly on Nakadori Island) and Fukue Island.
Murakami, in Niigata Prefecture, northwestern Japan, has a long history of catching and processing salmon from the Miomote River that runs through the city. Over the centuries, the area has developed many customs and traditions, as well as numerous recipes for preparing the fish. On this episode of Journeys in Japan, George Bourdaniotis watches salmon being caught by the local fishermen. He visits a workshop where the fish are preserved by wind-drying in the traditional way, and he samples a wide range of local delicacies prepared using salmon. George also visits a sake brewery and observes the way it is prepared, using rice grown locally and water from the source of the Miomote River. These local products, which are still produced in the traditional way, give an introduction to "washoku", Japan's traditional cuisine, which was recently registered by UNESCO as a World Intangible Cultural Heritage.
This episode of Journeys in Japan travels to Hiroshima, a city attracting attention as a treasure trove of quality architecture. Now nearly 70 years since the devastation of the atomic bomb, the program visits the city sights from the 3 viewpoints of architecture, war and tourism, exploring the city's history of urban development and architecture as it was rebuilt after the world's first nuclear attack. Our traveler on his first trip to Hiroshima is Charles Glover, an actor from the United States. Hiroshima is one of Japan's top industrial cities which had developed as a huge military base before the atomic bombing. Our traveler visits the Atomic Bomb Dome (Genbaku Dome) and Peace Memorial Museum, and while gaining a renewed realization of the fierce destructive power of the atomic bomb, he observes the masterful spatial designs and their inherent message never to repeat the tragedy again. He also visits the high-rise complex that was built where there had been the post-war slums, ponders over his perception of Hiroshima as someone from a nation that won World War II, and discusses the topic of peace with the students at a high school with an innovative design, learning how one of the top military cities in the country had transformed into a city aspiring to create a world of peace. Charles from the United States goes on this journey with the questions "How had the city managed to recover from such a tragedy?" and "How had the wish for peace been passed down to the people of Hiroshima today?" in mind. He reflects upon the human stupidity of the past and searches for the possibility or hope for eternal peace.
On this episode, an architect James Lambiasi travels to Inuyama City and Nagoya City in Aichi Prefecture, on a trip to discover the origin of the spirit of "making things" in Japan. In Aichi Prefecture, there are many companies known around the world, such as Toyota. For more than 30 years, the prefecture has been number-one in Japan for the total value of shipped products. And the foundation for that is found in the wooden robot "Karakuri Ningyo" or mechanized dolls of 400 years ago. The technology of Karakuri Ningyo has been enhanced from year to year, with a purpose of how to surprise viewers, and that process has brought about technology innovations in various fields, resulting in the manufacturing sector of Aichi today. On this trip, we learn about the spirit and values of "making things" passed on from old times to the current age in Japan.
On January 17, 1995, the Kansai region of Western Japan was hit by a massive earthquake. The city of Kobe suffered massive damage, and many neighborhoods were completely flattened. 19 years later, the city has been rebuilt and there is a whole generation of young people who have no memory of the disaster. On this episode of Journeys in Japan, copperplate print artist Peter Miller visits Kobe to see how the city has changed, to meet with the local people and to attend a ceremony to mark the anniversary of the Great Hanshin Earthquake. He joins in a walking tour of Kobe's oldest neighborhoods to discover some of their distinctive but little-known charms: an old café that survived the quake; a man who takes pictures of local scenes using cameras that he made for himself; and an artist who used to be the foremost painter of movie billboards. These neighborhoods have seen a quiet boom in what is known as "okan art" - handicrafts typically made at home by ordinary housewives, mothers and grandmothers. To discover more, Peter visits the home of one of the leading okan artists, and tries his hand at creating one.
The hot spring resort of Yunishigawa is associated with an historic episode from the 12th century. Defeated in the Dan-no-Ura Battle, a group of fleeing Heike samurai settled deep in the mountains of present-day Tochigi Prefecture, where they found a source of hot springs. The warriors' descendants still dwell in the town. Yunishigawa Onsen has long been beloved by hot spring fans, but it experienced a drastic drop in visitors due to rumors following the nuclear accident of 2011, in neighboring Fukushima Prefecture. But the local community rallied, turning misfortune into an opportunity to encourage and inspire people. On Journeys in Japan, model and reporter Akane Nakajima visits the village. Interested in martial arts and the way of the samurai, she tries to identify with the samurai spirit through exchanges with Heike descendants.
The Sanriku Coastal Region experienced severe damage due to the March 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake's resulting tsunami. On Journeys in Japan, Jessica Claros visits recovering areas along the Sanriku coastline in northeastern Japan. Her first stop is Ishinomaki, the Miyagi Prefecture's 2nd largest city. She visits a fish market to learn a little about the local fisheries and enjoy fresh seafood. She hires a taxi to go around the affected area in Ishinomaki and sees firsthand how the post-disaster reconstruction is progressing 3 years after that unforgettable day. Next, Jessica heads by train and bus to the hard hit town of Minamisanriku. There she finds accommodation at a family-run inn. She gets close to the Sanriku lifestyle through her encounters with local people living in harmony with the sea.
The town of Nagatoro lies in the hills of Chichibu, in Saitama Prefecture, about 2 hours northwest of Tokyo, surrounded by forested mountainsides close to the peak of Hodosan. Because of its rich natural environment, the whole town has been designated as a natural park. Although winters can be chilly in Nagatoro, the town has many scenic attractions, including boat rides on the Arakawa River. It also has a special product that draws visitors from all over the country, even in the coldest season. Kakigori is a traditional dessert made from shaved ice. In Nagatoro, it is made from natural ice that has been frozen from crystal-clear, mineral-rich mountain spring water. Flavored with natural syrups, this recreates the desserts eaten by Japan's aristocracy in Kyoto over 1,000 years ago. On this episode of Journeys in Japan, Lemi Duncan visits the Nagatoro area, to taste this natural dessert. And she visits a traditional Ryokan inns built 200 years ago, where she enjoys a hot spring bath and dines on delicious local cuisine.
The Kohoku region, north of Lake Biwa, is home to many culturally important Buddhist sculptures. The area around Nagahama City is known for its worship of the bodhisattva Kannon. Buddhist statuary - some over 1,000 years old - have been preserved by villagers, instead of being enshrined in temples. Our traveler Peter MacMillan meets some of these guardians and discovers their warm faith.
Sanjo City in Niigata Prefecture has been known for its blacksmiths since the 17th century. At that time, the area was susceptible to flooding, often resulting in famine. Farmers were encouraged to forge nails as a sideline to their agriculture, to help them survive in lean years. Sanjo became an important production center for wakugi, the Japanese nails used in building shrines, temples and other wooden structures. That tradition continues to this day, with one local artisan producing nails for the periodic rebuilding of the Grand Shrine of Ise, in Mie Prefecture. Eric Chevallier works as an apprentice blacksmith in Sakai, Osaka. He first came to Japan from France 3 years ago to learn the metalworking skills and craftsmanship of local blacksmiths. On this episode of Journeys in Japan, he observes an artisan creating traditional nails with pride and expertise. At another workshop, he observes close-up the processes for forging blades, where the owner and his son are keeping alive the time-honored techniques. Niigata gets some of the heaviest snowfalls in all of Japan. Eric also enjoys some of the customs observed by people in this area during the coldest season.
Every year on March 3, families throughout Japan celebrate the Hinamatsuri, or Doll Festival, to pray for the healthy growth of their daughters. They put up displays of special Hina dolls, which are modeled after the Emperor and Empress during the Heian Period, more than 1,000 years ago. There are also dolls representing the nobility, court musicians and others. On this episode of Journeys in Japan, Tania Zachidniak discovers the customs and tastes of the Doll Festival in Kyoto, and meets craftsmen who are keeping the traditions alive.
In the 2nd part of our Kyoto series, Sara Ariafar visits the ancient capital to explore the culture of incense. Japanese have enjoyed scents in unique ways for more than 1,000 years. She learns about how the aristocracy used incense in aesthetic and entertainment pursuits. She is also invited to experience Kodo, an incense ceremony.
Kurashiki flourished a couple of centuries ago in the Edo Period. An historic district with old merchant residences and storehouses has been beautifully preserved. Kurashiki is still a vibrant city and is also the center of Japan's famed denim industry, which adopts traditional textile and dyeing techniques. In this episode of Journeys in Japan, singer-songwriter and painter Rie Fu learns about appeal of the city through encounters with its people and historical anecdotes.
The historic city of Kamakura is one of the most popular tourist spots in Japan, thanks to its numerous temples and shrines. Surrounded on three sides by hills and on the fourth side by the sea, Kamakura is a sanctuary blessed with a rich natural environment. Thanks to the mild climate, the city is also known for the high quality produce grown by the local farmers. Every day, a wide variety of vegetables are on sale in the Kamakura Farmers' Market, which was set up almost 90 years ago. David Wells is a chef who lives and works in Japan, preparing Japanese cuisine. On this episode of Journeys in Japan, David visits the Kamakura Farmers' Market, meets the farmers and talks with the chefs who like to use the superb local ingredients. He learns that Kamakura is more than just a tourist attraction - it is a place where the local people enjoy a rich quality of life.
The 2nd installment of our series on great spring destinations near Tokyo features a local train and flowers in the Boso Peninsula in Chiba Prefecture. The Isumi Railway runs from the coastal town of Isumi to the castle town of Otaki. Although the Boso Peninsula is only about 90-minutes by car or bus from downtown Tokyo, the landscape along the 30-kilometer railway route is rural and sleepy, with cherry blossoms and nanohana rape blossoms in spring. The charming yellow train cars that conjure up the post-War years are hugely popular with tourists, including young female railway fans. The railway's 14 stations have a retro feel, as well. Our traveler on this episode of Journeys in Japan is Armenian writer and model Mari Khunoian, who studied Japanese at Moscow State University. The self-described railway enthusiast sometimes contributes articles to a Russian railway journal. She visits a morning market held at the Isumi Shrine since the Edo period (1603-1867) and enjoys the Edo atmosphere at the former castle town. Mari also meets a former electronics salesperson whose passion for the Isumi Railway led to a second career as a train driver, and stays in a traditional home converted into an inn. To top the trip, she enjoys the rape blossoms she sees along the way, which are served in a vegan sushi dish.
Takamatsu, facing the Seto Inland Sea, prospered as a castle town. We tour places of scenic beauty, as well as historic sites associated with the Takamatsu clan who ruled the area. These include the ruins of Takamatsu Castle, which was called a floating sea fort, and the expansive Ritsurin Garden with its 1,400 pine trees, ponds and hills. Our traveler Mailys visits what is said to be the longest shopping arcade in Japan, and tastes a popular Kagawa dish at a restaurant there. She explores many traditional crafts handed down from one generation to the next in Takamatsu.
In this episode of Journeys in Japan, poet and artist Peter MacMillan visits Yoshino Town in Nara Prefecture, which many consider to be the best site for viewing cherry blossoms in Japan. On his walk up Mt. Yoshino, he passes by some 30,000 cherry trees in full bloom. These trees are not indigenous. Starting about 1,300 years ago people began planting them for religious reasons. They are still regarded as sacred. Peter comes across an annual festival related to the cherry trees, which dates back more than 1,000 years. He gains insights into why the Japanese have so much affection for cherry blossoms. Peter also stays overnight in temple lodgings to experience the beauty of nocturnal cherry blossom viewing.
The Izumo district of Shimane Prefecture is revered as the heartland of the gods. It is home to Izumo Taisha, one of the largest and most venerated Shinto shrines in all Japan. Renovation work is conducted on the shrine every 60 years, to renew the buildings and keep alive the skills and craftsmanship required for their maintenance. Since the completion of the latest renewal work last year, people have been flocking from around the country to worship in front of the honden (main shrine), as its spiritual power is believed to have increased. On this episode of Journeys in Japan, Peter MacMillan is shown around the precincts of Izumo Taisha. He witnesses the rituals of the annual Daisairei Festival, held each year in May. He relaxes at one of the most highly regarded hot springs in the area, where the ancient deities are believed to have bathed. And he tries his hand at making magatama, a form of power stone associated with this sacred region since ancient times.
Minakami Town in Gunma Prefecture is blessed with abundant nature and people can enjoy various outdoor activities. As Minakami is in a convenient location that can be accessed by Shinkansen bullet train in an hour from Tokyo, it is also drawing foreign tourists recently. This time, the traveler JJ enjoyed rafting and canyoning, as well as fishing on a lake and picking wild vegetables in mountains.
Wajima, in Ishikawa Prefecture, is located on the northwestern coast of the Noto Peninsula, which juts out into the Sea of Japan. It is known globally for its exquisite Wajima lacquerware. The atmospheric city is blessed with the abundant gifts of nature and rich traditions. Among them, the Shiroyone Senmaida terraced rice fields stand out. Wajima has also passed down an ancient performing art form called "Gojinjo Daiko", which involves drumming and dancing. Our traveler on Journeys in Japan is American poet and photographer, Kit Pancoast Nagamura. She visits venerable Wajima lacquerware workshops and stays at a traditional inn that serves meals on heirloom lacquer tableware. She also experiences how to cultivate young rice plants at the Shiroyone Senmaida terrace and enjoys a spectacular performance of Gojinjo Daiko. Kit gains insight into how the people of Wajima have nurtured, and preserved, deep traditions, including their stunning lacquerware.
Azumino, in Nagano Prefecture, is known for its beautiful tranquil landscapes, which were praised by the writer Yasunari Kawabata, who won the Nobel Prize for literature. The Hotaka area, at the foot of the Northern Alps range of mountains, has peaceful paddy fields that stretch to the horizon. Alongside the roads, you can find statues of folk deities known as Dosojin. On this episode of Journeys in Japan, Chef David Wells visits Azumino at the height of spring. He explores the area by bicycle. He meets people who are living there and farming in harmony with nature. And he discovers ancient beliefs that still connect the local people with this rich landscape.
From Kaga Yuzen silk dyeing and Kutani porcelain to teahouses, traditional culture dating back more than 400 years is alive in Kanazawa City, Ishikawa Prefecture. Every June, the Hyakumangoku Matsuri Festival takes place in honor of Maeda Toshiie, the first lord of the Kaga domain, who laid the foundation of Kanazawa's rich culture. The festival features various traditional performances passed down for generations, including taiko drumming, a ritual lion dance and Kagatobi, an acrobatic spectacle of firemen atop ladders. Traveler Daniela Shiga meets many people who are upholding Kanazawa's rich traditions while also introducing innovation. She visits a family that has been making a rare local delicacy known as Fugunoko, which is blowfish ovaries preserved in rice bran. She tries her hand at the preserving work, using methods that go back nearly 200 years. As a food researcher, Daniela has fun developing new recipes that incorporate this traditional food. Kanazawa is a popular tourist destination. Next spring, it will become even more accessible with the launch of the new Hokuriku Shinkansen bullet train.
The Shiretoko Peninsula lies at the far northeastern tip of Hokkaido, Japan's northernmost prefecture. It is an area of remarkable natural beauty, with a vibrant diversity of wildlife both on land and in the sea. Since 2005, it has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is one of Japan's most unexplored regions, and one of the few places in the world where bears have an undisturbed natural habitat. For the Hokkaido brown bears living there, the mountains, rivers and virgin forests are an unspoiled paradise. On this episode of Journeys in Japan, Dean Newcombe travels to Shiretoko to discover its pristine environment. Dean has lived in Japan 4 years, working as a model. But this is the first time he has traveled to such a remote location. Shown around by a nature guide, he gets to see many kinds of animals in their unspoiled natural habitat. He goes out on a whale-watching boat to view the ocean wild life. He also learns the importance of living in harmony with nature and preserving the environment.
Kushiro Shitsugen, Japan's largest wetland, is a rich habitat for rare flora and fauna. Our traveler Dean Newcombe will explore the vast marshland by canoe with a veteran guide, observing the wildlife at close range and camping out at night. Later Dean continues on to Lake Kussharo, where he enjoys hot springs and a stay at a youth hostel. On his last day, he explores the Sakura Falls and observes more magnificent nature. On Journeys in Japan, we'll experience the heartbeat of Kushiro!
Tohoku's Sanriku Coast facing the Pacific Ocean is a ruggedly, dynamic landscape as well as home to world-renown offshore fishing grounds. With bitter cold winters and periodic tsunamis, life in Tohoku can be harsh and is said to have contributed to the culture and survival skills of Iwate's inhabitants. After the March 11 earthquake/tsunami disaster, establishing community become a priority and was prime in inaugurating the road to recovery. The powerful northern Fujiwara samurai clan ruled the Tohoku region from 1087 until 1189. During the 12th century they created the capital city of Hiraizumi, which served as an important political, military, commercial and cultural center. On this episode of Journeys in Japan, radio personality and diving blogger, Bonnie Waycott rides the newly reopened Minami Riasu Line to join the Sanriku Volunteer Diving Club for a marine conservation holiday. And then she heads off to Hiraizumi where she experiences a bygone era and talks with community volunteers who are traveling Iwate's Road to Recovery.
Okinawa, the southernmost prefecture of Japan, was formerly an independent kingdom, known as Ryukyu. Even today, the distinctive local traditions and culture from the days of the Ryukyu Kingdom are kept alive in the islands of Okinawa. An important part of this heritage is karate. Now practiced as a sport around the world, karate originated as a martial art that was practiced in secret, with esoteric teachings passed down from one generation to the next by the Ryukyu nobility and warriors. On this episode of Journeys in Japan, aikido master William Reed travels to Okinawa to discover the essence of karate in its homeland. He visits practice halls (dojos) and meets with the top masters of various karate styles. He observes their training methods and is taught some of the fundamentals karate moves. In addition, he witnesses a dance that conceals within its movements the essence of the traditional Ryukyu martial art. William also travels to an area where the ancient ecosystem has remained untouched for thousands of years. And he discovers the deep power of this environment that has given rise to karate.
The Tomioka Silk Mill was the first modern factory ever built in Japan. Completed in 1872, it marked a major step for the country in its transformation from a traditional society to a high-tech industrialized nation. The mill was built by Japanese under the guidance of a young French engineer called Paul Brunat. He chose the location in Tomioka, at the foot of Mt. Myogi, because there was a long tradition of skilled artisan silk production and he found the local people took great care of their silkworms. The architecture of the mill combines both Japanese and western elements. It was equipped with technology that was state-of-the-art at that time, but also incorporated local knowhow that Brunat learned from the local farmers. Because the mill has been preserved so well, almost in the same condition as when it was built, it (together with related sites) was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in June this year. On this episode of Journeys in Japan, the Tomioka Silk Mill is introduced by Damien Robuchon who works for the Tomioka City Government. Like Paul Brunat, Damien comes from France. He was hired last year to help promote the mill's cultural significance, and to study documents relating to the time when Brunat was in Japan. Damien visits various sites and meets with people related to the local silk industry. He also explores the role that Paul Brunat played in building the mill and contributing to Japan's modernization.
The Niyodo River in Shikoku is one of Japan's most beautiful rivers. It is known for the clarity of its water, which has such a distinctive aquamarine color that it's become known in Japan as "Niyodo Blue". Sara Ariafar explores the river and the surrounding forests. She meets with people living in the area. And she joins them as they relax with midsummer pastimes.
Ine is a beautiful fishing village located in northern Kyoto Prefecture. It is famous for its distinctive architecture called Funaya. These wooden structures, which are nestled together on Ine's bay, consist of a boat garage on the 1st floor and living quarters on the 2nd. Ine is also deeply associated with the popular folktale "Urashima Taro". Our traveler, Peter MacMillan meets people living with the sea and discovers their legends.
Gujo-hachiman, a city defined by water, is located upstream on the Nagara River and at a junction where 3 rivers converge. This rural city is at its busiest in summer - the season of the Gujo Odori, which is a Bon Odori dance festival that has been registered as an important intangible folk-cultural property and lasts for roughly 30 days. The climax of the Gujo Odori is the Tetsuya Odori when people dance through the night until dawn for over 4 days. Gujo-hachiman is also known for its beautiful townscape that retains old waterways. Our traveler, reporter Akane Nakajima, learns Gujo Odori dances and explores a traditional life blessed with water.
In the center of Yamagata Prefecture, far to the north of Tokyo, 3 sacred mountains rise above the fertile Shonai Plain. Called Dewa Sanzan (the Three Mountains of Dewa), they comprise: Mt. Haguro; Mt. Yudono; and Mt. Gassan, the highest of the 3, at about 2,000 meters. These 3 mountains have been a major center for esoteric religious practices known as mountain worship for over 1,400 years. In a 2-part series of Journeys in Japan, aikido master William Reed visits Dewa Sanzan to explore the practices of traditional mountain worship and to discover the ways in which the local people pay their respects to the mountains. Although he is well versed in many aspects of Japanese culture, such as calligraphy, this is the first time that William has ever entered the world of Japanese mountain worship. In Part 1, he visits Ideha Shrine, where the deities of the 3 mountains are enshrined. At the foot of Mt. Haguro, he tries the special vegetarian food prepared for pilgrims to the area. And at the foot of Mt. Yudono, he finds the ultimate demonstration of faith.
In the center of Yamagata Prefecture, far to the north of Tokyo, 3 sacred mountains rise above the fertile Shonai Plain. Called Dewa Sanzan (the Three Mountains of Dewa), they comprise: Mt. Haguro; Mt. Yudono; and Mt. Gassan, the highest of the 3, at about 2,000 meters. These 3 mountains have been a major center for esoteric religious practices known as mountain worship for over 1,400 years. In a 2-part series of Journeys in Japan, aikido master William Reed visits Dewa Sanzan to explore the practices of traditional mountain worship and to discover the ways in which the local people pay their respects to the mountains. Although he is well versed in many aspects of Japanese culture, such as calligraphy, this is the first time that William has ever entered the world of Japanese mountain worship. In Part 2, William immerses himself in a 3-day yamabushi training deep in the Dewa Sanzan mountains.
On this episode of Journeys in Japan, photographer Kit Pancoast Nagamura travels to 2 towns in northern Kumamoto Prefecture, in Kyushu. In Yamato, she observes an autumn festival, which has been held for more than 250 years. The local townspeople make giant floats, using natural materials, and parade them through the streets. The festival originally began as a way for the traders in the town to thank the farmers in the surrounding countryside for their hard work in the fields, producing rice and other crops. In Yamaga, Kit visits an old theater that was built just over a century ago. The local merchants commissioned an architect to build the finest theater in Japan, to make their town livelier and better known. This was their way of showing their appreciation for the abundance of rice grown by the farmers, which helped bring prosperity to their community.
Japan's ancient capital Kyoto has a history of more than 1,000 years. Philippine TV host and athlete Andrew "Drew" Arellano visits for the first time to learn about its traditional culture. He undergoes a bit of spiritual training and also gets a rare invitation to observe the life of apprentice Geisha, called maiko. This episode of Journeys in Japan is a collaboration with a popular Philippine travel program. Film crews from both Japan and the Philippines worked together.
Wakasa Bay in Fukui Prefecture is one of the best fishing grounds in all of Japan. It lies about 70 kilometers north of Kyoto and, for over 1,200 years, fish merchants in this area have supplied seafood from here to the old capital. One of the most important fish has long been mackerel, which is served as sushi in high-class restaurants. The network of routes used by the traders to carry this fish from the coast of Fukui to Kyoto came to be known as the Mackerel Road. On this episode of Journeys in Japan, John Moore visits the city of Obama, on Wakasa Bay, which was the starting point of the Mackerel Road. He savors many wonderful mackerel dishes. And he visits a workshop of that produces high-quality traditional lacquer chopsticks.
Shodoshima is the 2nd largest island in the Seto Inland Sea. Blessed with warm, mild weather, the island has nurtured a distinctive culture. Traveler Daniela Shiga enjoys local food, a kabuki performance and a magical hike at the peak of autumn. From olden times, the olive has been a symbol of peace and prosperity, as well as food with life enhancing benefits. Shodoshima is famous for its high-quality olives, which are on par with those of the Mediterranean. Olive farming was introduced to the island during the Meiji era (1868 - 1912) as part of a government program. Since then, islanders have nurtured their groves with great care. Daniela visits a 3rd-generation olive farmer and later speaks to an artist who produces handicrafts using threads dyed naturally with olive leaves. She also learns about the island's tradition of soy sauce making and joins pilgrims on part of their trek to mountain temples. Her final destination is a shrine where the locals, including school children, perform kabuki.
Tomonoura in Hiroshima Prefecture is known for its picturesque location and historic neighborhoods. It lies halfway along the coast of the Seto Inland Sea, in western Japan. In the Edo Period, up to the mid-19th century, it was a busy, bustling port. And even today, it looks little changed. For that reason, it has been used as a location for many movies, both Japanese and foreign. It is also the setting for one of the best loved animated films by director Hayao Miyazaki. Local fishermen set up their own market stalls here and there in the town, selling their freshly landed seafood. At a small ship yard, the 82-year-old owner keeps alive the skills of traditional shipbuilding. And local people gather at a small okonomiyaki restaurant run by 90-year-old woman owner. It is a town where senior citizens continue to play a full part in the daily life of the community. A growing number of younger people have also moved to the town. One of the newcomers runs a café and also takes people visitors out kayaking. One destination is an island famous for its landscapes and for its unspoiled environment, which is the habitat for tiny sea insects known as umihotaru, or sea fireflies. On this episode of Journeys in Japan, Charles Glover discovers the history, the vibrant life and the beautiful environment of Tomonoura.
The Izumo area of Shimane Prefecture, in western Japan, is an ancient land of myths and legends. It is famous throughout Japan for its handicrafts (mingei in Japanese). In Yasugi, weavers prepare the complex indigo-dyed Hirose-gasuri fabric. And in Oku-Izumo, there is a long history of swordsmiths forging traditional tama-hagane steel to produce samurai swords. On this episode of Journeys in Japan, French designer Maïa Maniglier explores the beauty of the arts and crafts created in this area, where people still feel connection with nature.
Yokohama is home to one of the oldest ports in Japan. It opened its doors to the world in the mid-19th century, becoming the birthplace of all things modern and attracting a foreign population. Our traveler, French photographer, Chloe explores the many faces of this multicultural city.
Japan has been the land of paper since ancient times. The country developed a unique culture of using washi (lit. Japanese paper) for diverse purposes. Echizen washi, traditionally produced in Echizen City, Fukui Prefecture, has especially been chosen for imperial ceremonies and for securities, diplomas, certificates and other important documents. The Goka district of Echizen is home to papermakers renowned for its high-quality handmade washi. The area is the only place in Japan where a deity of paper is worshipped. David Wells, a chef of Japanese cuisine, visits the district where washi is very much a part of people's lives, and discovers a deep world.
The city of Hakodate, on the southern tip of Hokkaido, attracts as many as 4 million visitors each year, drawn by its historic charm, the beautiful night views and the superb seafood. It is especially magical in winter, when it is lit by extra illuminations. Photographer Kit Pancoast Nagamura discovers the beauty and flavors that can only be found in Hakodate in mid-winter. She dines on codfish, one of the seasonal specialties. She goes horseback riding in a snow-covered national park. And she meets with some of the people who call this beautiful city home.
Naruko Onsen, in Miyagi Prefecture, is located in the foothills of the Ou Mountains. With a history of more than a thousand years, the Naruko Onsen hot springs have long offered a respite to weary visitors, some who take advantage of its toji "long-stay" resorts. The hamlet is also famous for its traditional kokeshi dolls. These dolls were originally created during the Edo era (1603-1868) by wood craftsmen, as souvenirs for the spa visitors who stayed during the winter off-season. Initially serving as children's toys, today they are prized by people of all ages and nationalities. On her journey, Akane Nakajima experiences making her own kokeshi doll using traditional methods. She learns about Japan's hot spring culture and meets warm local people, listening to their thoughts and enjoying their Tohoku hospitality.
Tohoku's Sanriku Coast faces the Pacific Ocean and runs parallel to the Kitakami Mountains. With bitter cold winters and periodic tsunamis, life in Tohoku is harsh. After the March 11 earthquake / tsunami disaster, establishing community was a priority and the people of Tohoku raced to meet the challenge of rebuilding. There is little time for ruminating about the past as they met the challenge of their future. On this episode of Journeys in Japan, radio personality and diving blogger, Bonnie Waycott visits the Kuji Ama divers before trying some hands on with Kuji Clay. Then she heads off to enjoy the cold weather and warm hearty Iwate cuisine with new friends...
Blues music is known and loved around the world, including Japan. But there is one place above all that has earned the title "the City of the Blues": Osaka. Since the 1970's, the blues has been part of the soundtrack for this gritty, eclectic metropolis, and there are still many clubs and bars that specialize in this music. Actor Charles Glover loves good music, especially the blues. That is why he visits Osaka. After sampling the atmosphere and street foods of Shinsekai, a long-established entertainment district, he goes in search of live music at the city's blues clubs. Some 90 years ago, Osaka was booming, and people came from all over Japan, and from other countries, looking for work. Charles visits Taisho, a major industrial district that formed the base of Osaka's prosperity and is home to many people of Okinawan descent. He also goes to the Ikuno Korea Town, which has been the cradle for many musicians. Exploring the vibrant streets, the food, the local culture of humor, Charles starts to understand why the people of Osaka have such an affinity to the blues - and why the city has such an enduring charm.
The Sanriku coast of northeastern Japan was one of the areas worst hit by the earthquake and tsunami of March 11, 2011. Among the volunteers who rushed to help the people in the disaster zone, there were many from other countries. Dean Newcombe, from the U.K., lives in Tokyo. Just 1 month after the earthquake, he made his way to Ishinomaki (Miyagi Pref.), together with some friends. He spent 9 months there, taking part in volunteer activities. On this episode of Journeys in Japan, Dean returns to the Ishinomaki area to see what daily life is like, 4 years after the disaster. He goes out with local fishermen in their boat, to find out first-hand about their work and lives. And he visits some of the people with whom he formed deep friendships while he was volunteering.
Yakushima is listed as a UNESCO world natural heritage site. Located 60 kilometers off the southernmost tip of Kyushu, the small island has nearly 2,000 meter-high mountains and diverse climate zones from the subtropical to the subalpine resulting in a unique ecosystem. It's home to more than 1,000 year-old Yakusugi—a type of cedar—and also the endangered Yakushima White Pine. Photographer Peter Skov hikes up to the snow-capped summit of Mt. Miyanoura (1,936 meters), the highest peak in Yaksuhima—and even Kyushu—enjoying magnificent nature along the way. He also meets with people who are behind protecting the island's precious habitat. As Peter treks through deep snow, and primeval forest, he feels the magic of Yakushima.
Spring arrives early in Kumamoto, in southwestern Japan. In this region, people like to celebrate the annual Hina Dolls Festival. Arrays of dolls are displayed, to pray for the healthy growth of young girls in each family. On the islands of Amakusa in the west of Kumamoto, people have long practiced Christianity. They kept their faith, even during the centuries when it was banned and they faced persecution. During that time, they made dolls which they used as part of their worship. And in Kumamoto City, children make their dolls in preparation for spring. On this edition of Journeys in Japan, American photographer Kit Pancoast Nagamura discovers the rich culture and history of Kumamoto, where spring is celebrated and children have been cherished since ancient times.
Otaru City in Hokkaido Prefecture is a land with beautiful canals. In the past, the commercial town enjoyed prosperity as an anchorage site of cargo ships called “Kitamae Bune." It also played an important role as a base for the national scheme of Hokkaido development. Today, the city still preserves a group of old stone warehouses and a number of historical buildings, which creates an aura of romance and makes the area one of the most sought-after locations in filming. The truly unique atmosphere was a result of local people's long consistent efforts to conserve the old townscape. The traveler for this edition of Journeys in Japan joins a sightseeing tour around the city that is operated by the Otaru residents. She also experiences how to make a piece of glasswork, enjoys fresh food from the sea, and learns about the history and culture of Otaru. The traveler visits a local port to take a look at herring fishing that is in season between January and March. The population of herrings was once down drastically due to overfishing – so much so that local fishermen were unable to catch the fish at all for decades. The size of its population has been on a gradual but steady increase, thanks to a variety of efforts including artificial breeding and releasing of herring fries. She also enjoys the taste of fresh herring in the top season, and listens to the stories of local fishermen who live very close to the sea and who engage in recovering the sea that is abundant with marine life. The program is full of information on the depth and charm of Otaru City. As it is located fairly close to Sapporo, the prefectural capital of Hokkaido, Otaru has been ranked among the most popular destinations among overseas tourists who are in Sapporo for tourism.
Throughout Japan, the blossoms of the ume plum trees signal the end of winter and herald the beginning of spring. The Kairakuen Garden in Mito, long considered one of the Japan's three greatest gardens, is famous for its many ume trees — about 3,000 in all, of 100 different varieties. The garden was laid out in 1842 by Tokugawa Nariaki, the head of the Mito Clan. A dark forest road leads to spacious groves of ume trees: this contrast reflects the traditional concepts of yin and yang. The Mito Lord was particularly fond of ume blossoms, as they withstand the cold of mid-winter and act as a harbinger of spring. The Hitachi Seaside Park, not far from Mito, is another place that is famous for its flowers. Here you can find many different kinds of plants in bloom, year-round.
Lake Biwa, Japan's largest freshwater lake, is located in the middle of the Japanese archipelago. Since ancient times, the expansive body of water has spawned myths and legends. British model and social entrepreneur, Dean Newcombe, spends time in a lakeside village. He discovers local wisdom for water sustainability that dates back more than two thousand years and meets residents who live in harmony with nature. Lake Biwa also attracts water sports enthusiasts. Dean gets in the water to try out some popular marine activities. At the end of his journey, he participates in Buddhist practices at Hieizan Enryakuji, the head temple of the Tendai sect. The experience gives him the chance to pause and reflect on himself.
Himeji Castle, in Hyogo Prefecture, just reopened after an extensive renovation. Its dazzling white appearance has been fully restored. On Journeys in Japan, radio DJ Chris Glenn, who has visited more than 400 castles and ruins, explores the secrets hidden within the imposing fortress. Later he tastes thin, pure white somen noodles and encounters traditional handicrafts made of supple white leather. He meets with craftsmen who take great pride in producing their white leather material and wares.
In Awaji Island, John and Ruadh Moore explore the farms, food and traditional culture. In ancient times, Awaji Island (Awaji-shima in Japanese) was known as Miketsu-kuni, a land that provided food to the imperial court. To this day, it is renowned for its fertile land and abundant seafood. John Moore lives in Kochi Prefecture, where he works on projects to help preserve traditional Japanese agricultural techniques for future generations. On this edition of Journeys in Japan, John visits Awaji with his daughter, Ruadh. They meet a local farmer, visit a company making eco-friendly roof tiles and enjoy a meal at a restaurant that focuses on seasonal ingredients from the surrounding land and sea. They also watch a traditional performing art that has been passed down for five centuries, and come to understand the importance of keeping alive the island's traditional culture.
Shonan area lies on the coast of Sagami Bay in Kanagawa Prefecture, just to the south of Tokyo. Since ancient times, fishermen have lived along this coast, and there are still many fishing ports to be found. From the late 19th century, the area became a popular location for city people to set up holiday villas. And since the 1970s, it has become a center for surfing and youth culture. Evan Burkosky is from Canada. He has been surfing for 20 years. On this edition of Journeys in Japan, Evan visits the Shonan area. He rides the waves, he goes out with fishermen, and he gets to taste the good life, down on the coast.
Contemporary dancer Alessandra Lupi visits Sado Island to study the powerful Onidaiko demon dance. The traditional performing art is offered to the gods to pray for peace and abundant harvests. Alessandra also experiences the traditional lifestyle of the region. She stays in a charming inn converted from an old home, tries rice farming and meets apprentices of Kodo, the renowned drumming ensemble. During her journey, she comes to feel how closely the Onidaiko performing art is connected to the local way of life. On the last day of her journey, Alessandra is bestowed with an honor that is most unexpected…
The Northern Alps range is often called "the roof of Japan." It is an area of great scenic beauty, offering superb views and unspoiled natural landscapes. Its highest peak is Mt. Hotaka, rising 3,190 meters above sea level, which stands at the heart of a national park that is the habitat for many species of wild animals, including the Japanese macaque. Kamikochi is the gateway to the mountain. It is a popular destination for hikers and other visitors. It was discovered by Walter Weston, a British missionary to Japan, who popularized recreational climbing in the nearby mountains in the late 19th century. As the birthplace of modern alpinism in Japan, this area remains a major center for sports climbing. On this edition of "Journeys in Japan," Cveto Podlogar sets off to climb to the snow-clad peak of Mt. Hotaka. He enjoys spectacular scenery during the day and skies ablaze with stars at night. He also stays at lodges along the way and talks with people deeply rooted in their love of climbing and the magnificent mountain. Cveto Podlogar is an experienced climber and an international mountain guide certified by the UIGM and officially recognized by the Alpine Guide Society of Japan.
Hokkaido—the northernmost island of Japan—is known for its vast expanse of land and unspoiled nature. American shakuhachi player, Bruce Huebner, visits in early summer when the air is still crisp. He is on a journey to discover the culture of the Ainu, an indigenous people who have lived in Hokkaido for centuries. Suffering long years of discrimination and forced assimilation, their culture was in danger of vanishing. Now, they are reclaiming their customs and reinventing themselves.
Morioka developed as a castle town, the seat of the powerful Nanbu clan during the Edo Period [17th-19th centuries]. Even today, the city has many areas of historical interest, with numerous temples and traditional merchant houses that have survived. Every year in early summer, a very distinctive event is held in Morioka. Called the Chagu Chagu Umako festival, it originated as an expression of appreciation for the hard work done by farm horses. As many as 100 horses take part in a parade through the streets, adorned with colorful costumes and numerous jingling bells. The close relationship between farmers and their horses led to the development of traditional farmhouses known as Nanbu magariya. These houses have two wings, one for the people and the other for the horses, so they can all live under the same roof. On this edition of Journeys in Japan, Dean Newcombe visits a farmhouse where the horse is treated almost like a member of the family. He discovers the distinctive culture that has grown up from this close connection with horses. Dean also samples the local specialties. He visits three restaurants to try the three different styles of noodles: wanko soba; Morioka reimen; and Morioka jajamen. He also finds out how these popular dishes that have such different cultural backgrounds became famous as local specialties.
Since ancient times, Japanese have developed clever methods for keeping cool in summertime by using nature and the five senses. It's called noryo. On this trip, Deborah Ten visits Odawara and the Izu Peninsula, which are famous resort areas close to Tokyo. She gets acquainted with traditional wisdom and aesthetics to keep cool on hot summer days. She tastes chilled tokoroten seaweed noodles, hears wind chimes, listens to a stream outside her room in a traditional inn, touches cooling water, and sees magical Fireflies. Deborah, who grew up in Malaysia, discovers old ways to celebrate summer.
The Shakotan Peninsula lies on the west coast of Hokkaido, jutting out into the Sea of Japan. Its rugged coastline is lined with steep cliffs eroded by the waves. Many parts of this scenic peninsula have been designated as part of the Niseko-Shakotan-Otaru Kaigan Quasi-National Park. US radio journalist John Matthews discovers the peninsula both on land and by sea. He rides through lush birch woods on his bicycle, and then goes out on a sea kayak to view the dynamic geology of the cliffs. He also explores below the surface, snorkeling in the beautiful sea known for its "Shakotan blue" color. He is welcomed by a family of fishermen, who have lived off the bounty of the sea for several generations. He also meets with a group of divers who have been working in cooperation with the fishermen to protect and restore the seabed and its complex ecosystem.
The town of Biei lies in the heart of Hokkaido, cradled by the magnificent peaks of Mount Tokachi. Surrounded by a colorful patchwork of fields and woodlands, it boasts an idyllic scenery that draws visitors from near and far. The patchwork effect is created by the colors of the various crops — potato, wheat, soybeans and the other plants grown here each season. Over the years, many people have come to Biei to photograph this enchanting landscape. Sebastian Angel is a professional photographer from Colombia, who is keen to capture the scenery of Biei. He explores the area and meets the people living there, from well-established farmers to newcomers who have moved there recently. He also gets to understand what makes this areas so fascinating to photographers.
The mountainous Kii Hanto is Japan's largest peninsula. It holds sacred places of faiths, including Shintoism, Buddhism, and Shugendo mountain ascetism. In 2004, three sacred sites in the Kii Peninsula and pilgrimage routes linking these to the ancient capitals of Nara and Kyoto were listed collectively as a World Heritage site. Our traveler is professional shakuhachi flute player, John Kaizan Neptune. He enjoys trekking along one of the Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Routes and meets residents of the sacred land. On his journey through majestic scenery, John Kaizan Neptune learns the wisdom of the Japanese who have strong ties with nature.
Kikaijima is a coral island in the far south of Kagoshima Prefecture, about 1,300 kilometers from Tokyo. It has a circumference of 48.6 kilometers and a population of about 7,200. Surrounded by cobalt-blue sea filled with colorful coral, the island boasts a rich natural environment, with trees that are several hundred years old. Because no major resorts have been developed on Kikaijima, it remains quite unspoiled. And the slow, natural pace of life seems little changed from the old days. On this edition of Journey in Japan, actress/musician Ananda Jacobs explores the island, meets the people and starts to discover the secret of their contentment.
Uwajima is a traditional castle town in Ehime Prefecture. The people there have a long tradition of bullfighting. Huge bulls weighing about a ton battle each other for supremacy in the ring. Close bonds develop between the people and their bulls. Kyle Card meets the local people and discovers their passion for bullfighting.
The Nebuta Festival attracts some three million visitors to Aomori City every August. Nebuta are giant lantern floats measuring five meters high and nine meters wide. They often depict scenes from legends and Kabuki stories in vivid, 3-D forms. The floats illuminating the summer night skies are an utterly magnificent sight, so much so that they're also called "Art of Light." Michael Rivas, who’s from Hawaii, discovers the Nebuta Festival. He gets up close to the huge floats and also dances in the parade with people he meets in Aomori.
The town of Daigo is in northwestern Ibaraki Prefecture, about 130 kilometers north of Tokyo. This attractive rural area is easily accessible from Tokyo, but preserves a traditional lifestyle based on sustainable farming and fishing. The pristine Kuji River runs through Daigo, providing fine recreational areas. It is also the top place to fish for wild Ayu sweetfish in Japan. Visitors can experience an age-old Ayu fishing method called "Yana Ryo" and have their catch grilled at a nearby restaurant. A summer attraction is the spectacular Bon lantern floating ceremony, where thousands of candle lit paper lanterns are floated down the Kuji River carrying prayers. Daigo is also an old green tea production center. Cultivation of tealeaves started in this region about 400 years ago, making use of the clear river water. Today, some tealeaf producers open their facilities to tourists to let them experience the traditional technique of rolling leaves by hand, known as temomi. They also let visitors taste the aromatic new tea of the season. Nature is at the heart of all that Daigo has to offer. Our traveler John Daub even experiences the power of the falling water at Tsukimachi Falls, just like ancient monks who underwent ascetic training here. John also encounters local people who engage in nature conservation on his hike up Mt. Yamiso. The program casts light on the little-known town of Daigo and its cultural attractions.
Kameyama lies in the north of Mie Prefecture. In the past, it had great strategic importance, as it lay on the Tokaido, the main highway connecting eastern and western Japan. Three old post towns are located within the city, and visitors can find many reminders of the past. The post town of Seki-juku has still about 200 houses dating back over a century, lining the road for some two kilometers. In Kameyama-juku, the culture of the samurai warriors is still kept alive. And Sakashita-juku was located just before the old highway entered Suzuka Pass, one of the most difficult sections on the route. On this edition of Journeys in Japan, Estella Mak explores these post towns, where the past has been preserved to the present day.
Iiyama City, located in northern Nagano Prefecture, is known for its beautiful nature and distinct four seasons. The rich landscape is nourished by snowmelt—Iiyama is one of the snowiest regions in the world. There are about 80 farmhouse lodgings in Iiyama where guests can experience a traditional way of life. They can also enjoy cooking local cuisine and farm work. The city developed around Iiyama Castle. Visitors can explore its ruins. With more than 20 Buddhist temples, the area is also known the "Snow Country's Little Kyoto." The atmospheric has many shops dealing the region's traditional Buddhist altars called "Iiyama Butsudan." It also has excellent museums.
About 145 years ago, apple tree saplings were imported to Japan and distributed around the country. The place where apple growing put down its strongest roots was in the Tsugaru area of Aomori Prefecture — and now it boasts the largest apple crop in Japan. John Moore travels to Tsugaru during the apple harvest, to meet the local people whose lives are so deeply entwined with the fruit. He learns about the history of apple growing and the hard work involved. And he finds out why this area has come to be known as the Kingdom of Apples.
Mt. Tsurugi in Toyama Prefecture is one of the most impressive peaks in Japan's Northern Alps range, rising to a height of 2,999 meters. Because of its jagged appearance it is often called the "Palace of Crags". Although modern alpinism was introduced in the late Meiji period (1868-1912), Tsurugi was the last of Japan's major mountains to be climbed. It is still considered the hardest. Cveto Podlogar is a professional mountain guide who has scaled numerous peaks around the world. To reach the top of Mt. Tsurugi, he begins by following the course of the Kurobe River, first by train and then on foot. The Kurobe Gorge Railway was originally built for the construction of a hydroelectric power plant. And the Horizontal Track was cut into the precipitous cliff face. His route continues via Sennin-ike, a pond offering views of Mt. Tsurugi, across a glacier, and then along a steep, rocky ridge. Along the way, he comes across tunnels dug in the rock face, and discovers the remains of an old molybdenum mine at an altitude of almost 3,000 meters. On this edition of Journeys in Japan, Cveto leads the way through beautiful autumnal scenery. He explores sites that bear testimony to Japan's modern industrial history. And he overcomes setbacks to finally scale the "Palace of Crags" — the summit of Mt. Tsurugi.
The Iya Valley is a land of legends hidden in Tokushima Prefecture, deep in the heart of Shikoku. Surrounded by mountains rising to over 1,000 meters, it is a remote Shangri-la that was cut off from outside world for centuries. This gives it a mysterious feeling that is unique in Japan. British fashion model Sapphira travels down mountain valleys of jade green. She crosses a suspension bridge made of wood and vines dating back to the legendary times of samurai warriors. She finds herself in a community where the residents are outnumbered by hundreds of life-size dolls. And she discovers villages with friendly people who treasure their traditional way of life. On this edition of Journeys in Japan, Sapphira makes her way deep into the mountains to Iya, and finds herself in a world of mystery and legends.
The Takayama Festival, in autumn, is held annually on October 9th and 10th. The stars of the festival are the spectacularly adorned floats, called "yatai." They are paraded through the city with some featuring live Ohayashi festival music and another a puppet show using mechanical dolls. Kit Pancoast Nagamura visits people who are involved in preserving traditions related to the floats. Over in the nearby town of Hida-Furukawa, she joins a cycling tour to observe rural life, and tastes Japanese sake brewed by an American.
Koshu is the former name for Yamanashi Prefecture. In feudal times, it was the base for the powerful Takeda warlords and many traditional crafts date back to that era. Koshu Inden is a way of decorating deerskin with designs in lacquer. Fine washi paper is used for calligraphy. And nishikigoi (varicolored carp) are often considered living artworks. Woodblock print artist David Bull visits the Koshu area to discover this world of natural beauty and artisan skill.
Yagyu, which is located just outside Nara, is the ancestral home of the Yagyu family, which established Yagyu Shinkage-ryu. This sword art school was adopted by the Tokugawa Shogunate for its defense strategy. Its core philosophy-the sword of peace-had enormous influence on the shogun, ushering in an era of peace that lasted for 250 years during the Edo period. On Journeys in Japan, Stephen Nagy visits the area. The scholar, specializing in international relations of Northeast Asia, is a martial arts master, who holds a fourth dan grade in Kendo and fifth dan in Aikido. He'll discover the philosophy behind Yagyu Shinkage-ryu's "sword of peace."
Ishigaki Island-surrounded by beautiful coral reefs-is considered one of the world's best diving spots. In 2007, though, its corals were damaged to the brink of extinction due to the rise of sea temperatures caused by global warming. This became a turning point for the locals to reassess their traditional half-farming and half-fishing lifestyle, which is closely linked to the sea. Many people became involved in conserving the coral reefs. On Journeys in Japan, our camera plunges into the waters off Ishigaki and gets up close to one of the world's largest coral colonies and marine life, including courting manta rays. We also explore the lifestyle of the islanders who coexist with the ocean. Our reporter is British diver Bonnie Waycott, a resident of Japan for ten years. Bonnie works in broadcast media, and also writes for diving magazines. She gets to report from the field and from underwater!
Akita Prefecture is located 450 kilometers north of Tokyo. American actor Charles Glover visits the northern land in late autumn when local people are busy preparing for the long winter. They cover garden trees and buildings in straw sheets, in a practice known as "yuki-tsuri" and "yuki-gakoi," to protect them against the heavy snow and strong winds. These elaborate landscape wrappings are entirely functional, but look like works of art. Women make large batches of "gakko" pickles with locally harvested vegetables. People developed the pickling style hundreds of years ago to help them survive the long, harsh winters. Late autumn to early winter is the peak season for fishing sailfin sandfish, or "hatahata" in Japanese. People in Akita love the fish, which was long a traditional source of protein during the winter. They especially enjoy it as the main ingredient in a "nabemono" hotpot that is also seasoned with a hatahata by-product, "shotsuru." Shotsuru is unique to Akita and is made from aged, fermented sailfin sandfish. The hotpot dish is called "shotsuru nabe" and "hatahata nabe." Being one of Japan's snowiest regions and one of the top production centers of sake, Akita has developed a tradition of enjoying the long winter nights with friends in neighborhood bars and restaurants. Evenings are warmed with the camaraderie, fine sake, and cuisine that is heavy on the blessings of the sea. Fish from the waters off Akita taste the best in winter, because the colder the water is, the richer their flavor... Our traveler Charles Glover enjoys to his heart's content the singular culture of the land of snow, Akita, which unfolds in late autumn.
Takachiho lies deep in the mountains of Miyazaki Prefecture, in Kyushu. It is believed to be the setting for Japan's creation myth. In winter, villagers perform sacred dances, known Yokagura, which have been passed down among the local community for more than 1,000 years. Both the performers and the audience immerse themselves in the world of myth and reaffirm the bonds that connect them.
Miyako Island, one of the southernmost islands of Japan, is a tropical paradise. Since olden times, the islanders have used song and dance in sacred rituals and as a way to unwind in every day life. American Shakuhachi player, Bruce Huebner travels around the island, discovering its heartbeat.
The sacred area of Koyasan was founded in the year 816 by Kukai, a Japanese monk who went to China to learn the practices of esoteric Buddhism. Kukai is also known by his posthumous name, Kobo Daishi. Together with other sacred sites in the Kii mountains, Koyasan has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site. There are about 50 temple lodgings (known as shukubo) at Koyasan. On this edition of Journeys in Japan, Jenn Barr stays at one of these lodgings and experiences the way the New Year is welcomed at this traditional power spot.
JJ travels through the Kushiro Wetland in Hokkaido. He sees Red-crowned Cranes-a designated Natural Monument of Japan-and takes a dreamy canoe ride on a river flowing through the frosty and snowy wetland. Later, he experiences a grill-style of cooking called robatayaki. We introduce the natural attractions of Kushiro with a focus on the splendid sights and sounds of winter.
The tropical island of Okinoerabu is known for its pristine, wild nature. It is also known for its agricultural products, such as sugar cane and flowers, thanks to the abundant spring water that gushes up from underground. Many young people move here or come back from other areas, drawn by the island's simple charms and work opportunities. While most of Japan faces depopulation, Okinoerabu has a large population of children. The tradition of the elderly taking care of youngsters is still alive. Writer and photographer, Kit Pancoast Nagamura, travels to this gem of island.
The ancient town of Kakunodate, in Akita Prefecture, northern Japan, is steeped in history. For visitors, it is like a time slip — back to the period when the streets were filled with samurai warriors. In the old days it developed as a castle town and became a regional hub, both economically and culturally. Many vestiges remain from the Edo Period (1603-1868), including former samurai residences, which are open to the public. On this edition of Journeys in Japan, Peter MacMillan explores this fascinating town, which is known as the "little Kyoto of the Michinoku region". He visits the residence of the Ishiguro Family, to glimpse the traditional architecture and lifestyle of the samurai. He discovers a store that sells oboro konbu, a traditional preparation made from kelp seaweed, and is shown around the oldest surviving storehouses in the Tohoku Region, built inside the private residence of a long-established soy sauce producer. At a local restaurant, he dines on a dish that used to be served to the lords of Kakunodate in the old days. He also tries his hand at a local craft, using the bark of mountain cherry trees. In the evening, Peter joins the local people taking part in a fire festival that is held to celebrate the Lunar New Year. Called the Hiburi Kamakura, this tradition dates back 400 years.
The Yatsugatake mountain range-just 150 kilometers west of Tokyo-is a convenient destination for outdoor winters sports. Ice climbing is one of its popular attractions. Beginners can even get in practice on an artificial ice wall near a mountain hut before taking on the area's many waterfalls. On Journeys in Japan we practice ice climbing and head to the summit of Yatsugatake's highest mountain, Mt. Akadake (2,899 m), passing through a ravine with a series of frozen waterfalls. Cveto Podlogar is an experienced alpinist who has scaled numerous peaks around the world. He is not only our reporter, but also our guide to the area's fantastic ice climbing and snow trekking.
Kinosaki Onsen is one of the most famous hot spring resorts in western Japan. It has about 80 ryokan inns along a picturesque street that follows the course of a river lined with willow trees and crossed by numerous stone bridges. Many of these inns are three-story wooden structures built some 90 years ago. Around a million tourists visit this town every year to enjoy the baths, the traditional townscape and the old-time retro atmosphere. On this edition of Journeys in Japan, woodblock printmaker David Bull comes to Kinosaki Onsen to soak in the hot spring baths and to dine on the winter-time delicacy, fresh crab. He also discovers a handicraft made with straw. He visits a retro game arcade, and gets to know some of the local people over drinks and karaoke.
Deep in the north of Japan at a mountain temple, a festival called the Somin-sai and nicknamed the Naked Festival, has been held for around one thousand years. British actor, Dean Newcombe, travels to Oshu, in southern Iwate, to join in this enigmatic festival. First he takes in some of Oshu's other ancient winter rites. And then he visits a Zen training temple to practice asceticism to focus his mind for the harsh festival. The finale of his trip-the Somin-sai-was an experience beyond Dean's wildest dreams.
It's spring in Okayama, which facing the Inland Sea of Japan in the south and the Chugoku Mountains in the north, is blessed with abundant nature. In this edition of Journeys in Japan, John Moore and his daughter Ruadh visit the area, which has a long history and rich culture. They look for "the traditional reds" of Japan. In Fukiya, they appreciate the earthy-rouge townscape. They taste a steamed sea bream dish the locals eat on joyous occasions. The fish's scales are a reddish pink, so people often call it "cherry blossom sea bream." The father and daughter also visit a swordsmith and observe how he forges a blade from the flaming red tamahagane, or raw carbon steel.
twitter facebook help For centuries, the faithful have made their way to Chichibu, in Saitama Prefecture, to visit Buddhist temples devoted to the Bodhisattva Kannon. This pilgrimage route, comprising 34 temples in all, became popular during the Edo Period some 200 years ago, and still draws many people to this day. Just 90 minutes from Tokyo by train, the Chichibu area is surrounded by mountains and boasts beautiful natural scenery together with historic rural villages. On this edition of Journeys in Japan, Estella Mak is shown around some of the major temples on the pilgrimage route by a local guide. She discovers the culture and traditions of the area, and enjoys some of the local delicacies.
The warlord Date Masamune rose to power during Japan's Warring States period in the 16th century, and went on to control a large area of Tohoku (northeastern Japan). Thanks to his rule, the castle town of Sendai developed into the largest city in the region. It is now a major industrial, economic and cultural hub for the region. Date Masamune was highly skilled in the military arts, but he was also known for his love of literature and his progressive thinking. He enjoyed composing waka (Japanese poetry), and loved sophisticated banquets. He also had a great interest in the world outside of Japan, and he sent special envoys as far as Europe. Even today, Date Masamune remains one of Japan's most popular historical figures. On hunting trips, the warlord would often visit a place called Akiu, where he would relax in the pools of natural hot-spring water. To this day, the area remains a popular resort where people come to ease their stress and fatigue - just half an hour by car from the Sendai city center. Peter MacMillan is a poet and printmaker from Ireland. He is also a university professor who teaches comparative literature and linguistic art and expression. In this edition of Journeys in Japan, Peter arrives in Akiu on the cusp of spring. He discovers the history and natural beauty of the area. He hikes in the hills, meets a local artist and immerses himself in the same hot springs that were such a favorite of Date Masamune.
Mihonoseki is on the eastern cape of the ShimanePeninsula, surrounded on three sides by water: the Sea of Japan to the north and Miho Bay and Nakaumi to the south. It prospered during the Edo period (1603- 1868), when it was a port of call of Kitamaebune trade ships. Today, it's a fishing port and a gateway to the sea. It still retains charming features from its heyday in the Edo period. Aoishidatami-dori, or the "blue" cobblestone alley (named for the color the stones turn in the rain), dates to the era. For visitors to the local beach at sunrise, it might be easy to imagine early Japanese mythology when they see the sky burnish red. The people of Mihonoseki have long cherished their gods and lived with the blessings of the sea. Rituals are an important part of their lives. In April, every year, they hold the Aofushigaki ritual, enacting an episode in mythology when the god Kotoshironushi (more commonly known as Ebisu) decides to hand over his land to the heavenly gods and takes to the sea to hide. Our traveler experiences this ritual, which evokes an archetypical image of Japan's revival. On Journeys in Japan we explore Mihonoseki, where the world of myths live on.
The Ise-Shima area of Mie Prefecture is best known for its beautiful, indented coastline. But recently it's been in the news for another reason: it is the venue for the 42nd Group of Seven meeting, which is being hosted by Japan this year. In this edition of Journeys in Japan, Sonia del Campo begins her journey on Kashiko-jima, a popular resort island which is where the G7 summit takes place. The island is also famous because this bay was the birthplace of modern pearl cultivation 110 years ago. Sonia goes out on a leisure boat to see the local bay with its pearl farms. She also visits a long-established pearl shop. Next she travels to the town of Minami Ise. Since ancient times, people here have lived in this beautiful area, drawing on the bounty of the ocean and the mountains. Some ten years ago, the town launched a special program, offering visitors the chance to meet some of the local people and get a close-up look at their daily lives. Sonia goes out with a fisherman to see how he catches his seafood. She helps a farmer harvest fruit in his citrus orchard. And she joins in a group of people who are making a traditional charcoal kiln. She discovers the beauty and charms of the Ise-Shima region - and the age-old lifestyle of the local communities.
Tendo City, Yamagata Prefecture, is a major producer of pieces for shogi-Japanese chess. They are only three centimeters long, but appreciated as miniature works of art due to their beautiful calligraphy, their high quality material, and beautiful grain patterns. Ukiyo-e woodblock printmaker David Bull visits a shogi-piece craftsman and one of Japan's top designer furniture makers. He also enjoys a spectacular shogi festival and dishes using fu, a local specialty made from wheat gluten and fresh water.
Japan is famous for its spectacular displays of cherry blossom, which draw visitors from far and near. But the peak season for most other flowers in Japan arrives after the cherry petals have fallen. Nara City used to be the capital of Japan, before Kyoto. The surrounding area is home to many ancient temples that boast beautiful gardens within their precincts. It is a wonderful place to view the abundance of seasonal flowers, and a great opportunity to find tranquilty and restful rural scenery. On this edition of Journeys in Japan, Deborah Ten visits temples known for their displays of early summer flowers. She follows an ancient route, the Yamanobe Road, which has been used since the 4th century, and discovers vistas of wild flowers. And she glimpses the true face of this historic area, beyond the usual tourist trail.
The tradition of children's kabuki on festival floats has 250 years of history in Komatsu. American actor, Charles Glover travels to Komatsu, Ishikawa prefecture, to experience this castle town's deep culture and excitement over its "Otabi" festival. A highlight of the festival, which is held in May, is the magical outdoor kabuki performance.
During several hundred years of national self-isolation, Nagasaki served as Japan's only window to the world. Many foreign cultures flowed into this port town, nurturing the development of cuisine found nowhere else. Behind each and every dish born in Nagasaki, there's a story. David gets to hear these tales from people who take pride in keeping Nagasaki's unique culinary traditions alive.
Iejima is a small island off of mainland Okinawa. It was the scene of fierce battles in World War II. Its people suffered deep wounds. But they never gave up. After the war, they devoted themselves to replanting their burned fields to revive the land and their spirits. Today, the island produces original products made from sugarcane and wheat, and invites scores of students to experience simple island life. American photographer and writer, Kit Pancoast Nagamura enjoys the slow island life. She also meets the resilient, and resourceful, people of Iejima.
Takahashi City in Okayama Prefecture is a popular destination for sports climbers. Rock climbing courses were first set up here in the late 1980s, and the area is now known by the name Bichu. TV producer Christian Storms is an avid sports climber. On this edition of Journeys in Japan, he scales one of the rock walls of Bichu. He visits an island that has a long history of producing high quality granite and inspects an existing quarry. He meets a traditional craftsman who uses the local slate to carve calligraphy inkstones by hand. And he discovers the profound connection that people here have long felt for their rocks.
Sabae City, located on the Sea of Japan in central Fukui Prefecture, has a population of about 70,000. Sabae is renowned as a center for craftsmanship since olden times. It produces 90 percent of all eyewear frames sold in Japan and produces more than 80 percent of lacquerware used in restaurants across the country. The textile industry is another leading engine of Fukui business. In terms of eyeglasses, our traveler Cyril Coppini learns about its local history and tries his hand at frame-making. In the arena of lacquer, he visits a master artisan at his workshop for an in-depth look at how it's made. As for textiles, Cyril meets a woman who is preserving, and passing on, the skills for weaving a traditional fabric called, Ishidajima. Cyril also gets to know young people who have relocated to Sabae to pursue their craft. On Journeys in Japan, we meet the people of Sabae who continue to protect Japan's traditional culture of making items by hand.
Cape Soya lies at the northernmost tip of Hokkaido Island. Located at a latitude of 45° North, the landscape in this area is very different from the rest of Japan - and it is sometimes known as the "Ireland of Japan." Year-round, it is swept by strong winds and has an average annual temperature of about 7 degrees Celsius. This makes it a suitable habitat for plants that can only seen at an altitude of around 2,000 meters in central Japan. The Okhotsk Sea is one of Japan's most fertile fishing grounds. Sarufutsu Village is known for its scallops, and more of the shellfish are landed here than anywhere else in Japan. The local fishermen release baby scallops in the sea water and leave them to grow for five years until maturity. These shellfish are prized for their meaty texture and rich flavor. This area also has a distinctive inland ecosystem, with some fascinating wildlife. One of the most remarkable all is the itou (Japanese Huchen), the largest freshwater fish in the country, which is now critically endangered. In this edition of Journeys in Japan, John Moore explores the wild nature of Japan's northernmost tip. He sees for himself the bounty of the ocean, even in this harsh climate. And he tries his hand at fly fishing, in the hopes that he may come face to face with the mysterious itou fish.
Hokkaido, Japan's northernmost main island, turns into a paradise of flowers in spring and summer. After the harsh winter, plant life erupts in all its brilliant glory. It's a wonderful place to discover gardens. The 250-kilometer highway from Asahikawa to Obihiro passes close to eight notable gardens. That is why it has come to be called the "Hokkaido Garden Path". Each garden has its own individual character, setting, and vegetation. Anthony Wood is a photographer from the United States who has lived in Japan for 10 years. His home state, Minnesota, has vast and abundant nature, much like Hokkaido. At the beginning of this trip, Anthony focuses his camera mostly on the beautiful flowers in full bloom. But as his journey continues and he meets the people behind the gardens, he trains his lens more on them. On this edition of Journeys in Japan, Anthony embarks on a road trip through the far north of Japan, in search of beauty.
Deep in the steep mountains of Kumamoto Prefecture, Kyushu, lies the remote village of Kuma. Located on the raging Kuma River, this area was cut off from the rest of Japan in the old days and still retains the feel of yesteryear. On this edition of Journeys in Japan, British actor Dean Newcombe explores this rural region, to meet the people of Kuma and discover their traditions.
Aomori, the northernmost prefecture of Japan's Honshu main island, has a number of enigmatic places that feel a world apart. On Journeys in Japan poet Arthur Binard explores the area's sacred spots. He passes through more than 200 torii gates leading to a Shinto shrine, encounters fantastically-shaped giant rocks, and visits a sacred borderline of this life and the afterlife, as well as a temple with 2,000 stone Jizo statues. He discovers the mysterious traditions of Aomori.
The Akita Kanto Festival attracts more than a million tourists every year. One kanto pole is lit with 46 lanterns and more than 250 poles are raised up together, creating a dreamlike picture of illuminated golden rice ears swaying in the night sky. The festival can also be enjoyed in the daytime, where competitions called "Myogikai" are held and the performers compete in showing their acrobatic skills. Our traveler is Malaysian model Deborah Ten. She enjoys the festival and the pastoral scenery of summer in Akita.
The source of the Kurobe River-deep in the Northern Alps in Toyama Prefecture-is a rarely explored place. No matter which trailhead hikers choose, they must all pass over ridges of more than 2000 meters above sea level to reach the source. This is one of the reasons it was the last area in Japan to be developed for hiking. It remains unspoiled today. On Journeys in Japan, photographer Peter Skov explores the mountains around Kurobe River's headwaters. He starts out from the Oritate trailhead, passes over a ridge, descends to the Kurobe River, and heads to a highland paradise called Kumonodaira. He also experiences "sawanobori" or stream climbing up the Akagisawa. Peter revels in the spectacular nature around the source of the Kurobe River.
This neighborhood lying alongside the Uchikawa River in Imizu CIty, Toyama Prefecture, has been a thriving fishing port for over 1,000 years. Because of its proximity to the water and its unified townscape, it has been nicknamed the "Venice of Japan." Through the centuries, people in this district have lived alongside the river, protecting and handing down their traditional lifestyle from to the next generation.
Tanegashima is an island that has embraced new cultures and people since olden times. Starting with Japan's first firearms-brought in by the Portuguese-the island has accepted all kinds of things from sweet potatoes from Sumatra and a major space center to surfing culture. British model, actor and social entrepreneur Dean Newcombe meets the energetic people and discovers the diversity of Tanegashima.
Yubari, in the center of Hokkaido, is famous for its international film festival, which is held each winter, and for its picturesque scenery. But half a century at it was best known as a thriving coal mining community. Now little remains of that era except memories and atmospheric ruins. On this edition of Journeys in Japan, American actor Charles Glover explores the relics of Yubari's past, and finds there is still life in the city.
Nakasendo is one of the five highways constructed in Japan during the Edo Period (1603 – 1868). Connecting Edo (old Tokyo) and Kyoto, it has 69 post towns along its way. The post towns of Magome and Tsumago are situated about midway along the old road. Magome is known for its beautiful cobbled slopes. Tsumago showcases a stunning, traditional townscape-thanks to the conservation efforts started in the early 1970s-with many buildings from the Edo Period. Electric poles have been buried and advertising signboards banished. Ananda Jacobs walks along the Nakasendo Way from Magome to Tsumago. She enjoys the traditional landscape and discovers how closely local people live with nature.
For hundreds of years, pilgrims have made their way to the hills of Chichibu, northwest of Tokyo, to follow an ancient pilgrimage route. Wearing special pure white tunics, they visit 34 Buddhist temples in the area that are dedicated to the Bodhisattva Kannon. On this edition of Journeys in Japan, Estella Mak returns to Chichibu to complete the pilgrimage she began in the spring. Accompanied by the same local guide as last time, she visits the 28th pilgrimage temple, Hashidate-do. then moves to the 34th and final temple, Suisen-ji. This section is the most critical part of the whole pilgrimage route as the trail leads deep into the mountains, far from the town. Before heading to the final temple, Estella observes a very unusual local celebration, called the Ryusei Festival. She meets a group of local people who are preparing to launch a huge handmade rocket. And she discovers that Chichibu has a culture, tradition and lifestyle that is unique to the area, and that the local people are devoted to keeping the tradition alive.
Munakata City is located in northwestern Kyushu, facing the Sea of Genkai. As an ancient maritime trade route, Munakata opened its doors to international commerce and cultures, playing an important role in history. The city has been nurtured by deep faith since mythical times. And the 1,400-year-old Munakata Taisha, which worships three sister goddesses, is at the center of that faith. Munakata Taisha holds an annual ritual in which the two elder goddesses-who live on nearby islands-travel to join their younger sister in Munakata. Hundreds of fishing boats take part in the spectacular Miare Festival, carrying vibrant banners. Poet Peter MacMillan visits Munakata Taisha and observes the ritual-getting transported back in time. He also visits Oshima Island, the starting point of the festival, where there's a smaller shrine dedicated to the youngest goddess, whom islanders revere as the god of sea safety and good hauls. On Journeys in Japan, Peter MacMillan follows the traces of the ancient people who directed their eyes to the sea and beyond.
At a height of 1,982 meters, Mt. Ishizuchi is the tallest peak in western Japan. It takes about three and a half hours to the summit if you board the ropeway for part of the journey. During the fall season many people hike up to view the autumn leaves. Mt. Ishizuchi has been revered as sacred since ancient times. Mountain ascetics worship here to this day. It is also called "the mountain of life" by neighboring residents. At the foot of the mountain lies Saijo City, where its plains' annual rainfall registers only 1,400 millimeters. But the rainfall on Mt. Ishizuchi is two to three times that amount, most of which flows into the city. The rich groundwater is said to rank among the tastiest in Japan. There are many public water fountains in Saijo.
Hagi, in Yamaguchi Prefecture, western Japan, is one of Japan's best known castle towns. The traditional townscape with its stores and old houses has remained unchanged since the time of the Edo shoguns (1603-1868). The plan of the streets is so similar that you could use an Edo-period map to find your way around the town. Hagi was founded by the warlord Terumoto Mori, after he was forced to retreat following his defeat in the Battle of Sekigahara (1600). Despite its secluded location on the Japan Sea coast, surrounded by mountains, many leading figures who contributed to Japan's modernization were born here.
The Isumi-Ichinomiya area lies on the east coast of Chiba Prefecture, facing out toward the Pacific Ocean. It's just an hour from Tokyo by train, but it feels much further away. Thanks to the mild climate, it is much cooler in the summer. With its long, sandy beaches and quiet farming villages, it feels as relaxed as an overseas resort. In recent years, a growing number of people have moved to Isumi-Ichinomiya, including many foreigners resident in Japan. Leaving behind the busy pace of life in Tokyo or other cities, they have been able to put down strong roots in this tranquil environment. Robert Beaupre came to Tokyo 17 years ago from the United States. During the day he works as an English teacher at a high school. But he's also the vocalist for a hard rock band, performing at live-music houses around Tokyo. He is 66 now and he's been looking for a place to live near Tokyo that is peaceful but still has a good scene. On this edition of Journeys in Japan, Robert explores the Isumi-Ichinomiya area. He meets with many people who have free, creative lifestyles. And he finds it's a perfect place for slow living in harmony with the natural rhythms of nature.
The area called Koza in Okinawa city-in the center of Okinawa prefecture-is famous for its international atmosphere with immigrants from more than 40 countries. Since the end of World War II, Kadena, the largest American air force base in the Pacific, has largely occupied the city. Services for soldiers in Kadena flourished after the war, ushering in an age of unprecedented prosperity. People from all over the world descended on the city for business opportunities, which led to the melting pot you find today. British actor Dean Newcombe explores exotic Koza.
Ogawayama (Mount Ogawa) is known as a "rock climber's paradise." Located near Kawakami Village in Nagano Prefecture, it takes about three hours to reach from Tokyo by car. The mountain is popular for having climbing spots located near its main base. The closest is only minutes away, while the farthest is only about an hour's walk. On this edition of Journeys in Japan we introduce the appeal of Ogawayama rock climbing, including bouldering. Our reporter Cveto Podlogar takes on the longest climbing route of Ogawayama, called "Eboshi Iwa Sa Ryosen." The route affords the thrill of heights and magnificent views along the way. After much climbing, Cveto enjoys creature comforts-he's glamping, Japanese-style.
This edition of Journeys in Japan explores the international winter resort of Niseko in Hokkaido. John Moore and family friends enjoy a snowmobile tour, experience traditional snow country life, watch a powerful performance of taiko drumming, and sample winter delicacies. They discover a terrific winter playground-enhanced by the world's best powder snow.
Suruga Bay, off Shizuoka Prefecture, is the deepest bay in Japan, plunging to a depth of around 2,500 meters. Around the port, there are many places to eat delicious, fresh-caught seafood. There are also a number of famous viewing spots that provide wonderful vistas of Mt. Fuji. On this edition of Journeys in Japan, photographer Kit Pancoast Nagamura explores this area along the coast, sampling the local delicacies and meeting some of the people who live on this land between Mt. Fuji and Suruga Bay.
Chubu Centrair International Airport is built on an artificial island off the Chita Peninsula in Aichi Prefecture, to the south of Nagoya. The architecture is contemporary but the interior has been laid out with many traditional Japanese design elements. From the airport, it takes just five minutes by train to reach Tokoname, one of Japan's longtime centers for traditional pottery. Just about everything in the city is connected with ceramics production. Visitors will see many factories with their distinctive brick chimneys. They will also notice pottery items displayed along the streets, and can follow walking routes that are paved and lined with old pieces of earthenware. One of the main districts for traditional pottery lies on a hillside overlooking the city. Production here peaked in the years before World War II, but has since declined. Today, it makes a fascinating place to visit, thanks to its mixture of traditional pottery workshops, galleries, and old factories that have been refurbished for new uses. On this edition of Journeys in Japan, Estella Mak first looks around Centrair Airport, before moving on to explore Tokoname. She is given a guided tour along the Pottery Footpath, and meets some of the local people whose lives have a long connection with pottery production. Next, she visits the Ono District, where she discovers another side of Tokoname. This area was once a prosperous port and the main town on the Chita Peninsula. She talks with a local group that is working to revitalize the community, and meets some of the younger people who have moved into the area.
Ibaraki Prefecture's coastline extends about 200 kilometers along the Pacific. Warm and cold currents meet off the shoreline, creating fertile fishing grounds. Many fish types are landed year-round at the ports. But anko, or monkfish, is a special delicacy in winter-both its fatty meat and liver. In Kitaibaraki, our traveler David Wells samples dobujiru, a hot pot using anko, which was originally devised by fishermen. David discovers that dried sweet potato making is in full swing in the coastal area of central Ibaraki, where the dry wind and sunshine sweeten up the produce. Leaving the sea behind, David follows a river inland to Lake Hinuma, a brackish salt water marsh. The shijimi, or Japanese basket clam, caught in Hinuma in winter is prized for its rich flavor and plump meat. David Wells, a Japanese cuisine chef, delights in the winter delicacies, nature and a simple way of life in Ibaraki.
In winter, Hokkaido is covered by a deep blanket of snow and the land lies dormant. But for the people who live in Japan's northernmost main island, this season offers an opportunity for creativity and community spirit. Every year, they illuminate the midwinter landscape with spectacular displays of ice, snow and light. The biggest and best known is the Sapporo Snow Festival. Held in February, it has a history of over half a century and attracts around 2.6 million visitors. During the same period, other festivals take place in Hokkaido, including the Otaru Snow Light Path and the Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival. On this edition of Journeys in Japan, British sculptor Kate Thomson visits the three festivals to view the creations and meet some of the people who help to make them.
Mt. Norikuradake lies 200 kilometers west of Tokyo, straddling the border of Nagano and Gifu prefectures. Of all Japan's 3,000-meter-plus mountains, it is one of the easiest to reach. And its relatively gentle slope makes it a popular destination for alpinists of all levels. A ski lift takes you up to the trailhead, and there is a mountain lodge at 2,400 meters which operates during the winter, so it is an ideal climb, even for first-timers. However, the final ascent from the lodge to the peak is a severe climb, just as it is on other 3,000-meter-plus peaks, and should only be attempted by experienced alpinists. On this edition of Journeys in Japan, Liivi Selde discovers the pleasure of snowshoe trekking from Norikura Kogen, at the foot of the mountain. She stays at a secluded hot spring resort, Shirahone Onsen, relaxes in an open-air bath with views of the snow and enjoys the local cuisine. The next day Liivi meets her mountain guide and starts her climb. The lodge where she stays is the only one in the area that is open during the snow season. On the slopes above the lodge, she finds amazing patterns formed in the snow by the powerful winds. After reaching the peak, she is rewarded by a panoramic view stretching to the horizon.
The statue of Hachi the Dog sits near Shibuya's famous scramble crossing. Hachi was an Akita Inu, a breed designated as a national natural monument. The breed originated in Odate City, Akita Prefecture in northern Japan. Odate thrived on mineral mining and forestry from the beautiful forests of Akita sugi, a type of cedar. But today, it's especially known as the birthplace of the Akita Inu. On Michael's travels around Odate he meets the famed dog and gets a glimpse into locals' everyday lives. He also takes part in the Amekko Festival, which dates back 400 years.
On this edition of Journeys in Japan, we travel to Oya, an old stone town in Utsunomiya City, Tochigi Prefecture. Australian radio DJ Chris Glenn visits an ancient temple carved into a cave and featuring stone Buddhist reliefs. He goes underground into a cavernous former quarry. And in another ruin, he takes an adventure tour of a mystical underground lake. He stops by a stone artisan's workshop as well as a jazz cafe where the owner has created speakers with Oya stone. On this journey, Chris feels the deep connection between the local people and their beautiful stone.
Nagoya, in Aichi prefecture, was the main battlefield during the prolonged Sengoku, Warring States period 500 years ago. In this episode of Journeys in Japan, American actor Charles Glover, travels back in time, discovering the legacy of local samurai warlord heroes whose battles were waged to end the civil war.
In recent years, there has been growing interest in backcountry skiing. Many people mistakenly assume that this means just skiing away from the regular slopes and enjoying fresh snow. But backcountry skiing actually requires deep knowledge of winter conditions in the mountains, such as the possibility of avalanches and what action to take when you encounter sudden changes in the weather. One popular starting point for backcountry skiing in Japan is the Hakuba area of Nagano Prefecture. There is a well established route connecting the Tsugaike Valley to Mt. Norikuradake, and from there to Renge Onsen and down to the village of Kijiya, in Niigata Prefecture. Of course, there is much more involved than just skiing down the mountainsides. In some places, you have to first make your way to the top of the mountains, using climbing skins on your skis. Although this ascent can be very hard, the reward is the breathtaking experience of gliding down on virgin snow. In this edition of Journeys in Japan, Cveto Podlogar explains how to prepare to go out skiing in the backcountry, practicing on the slopes of a ski resort before setting off. As he leads the way on this trip, he demonstrates the deep enjoyment of backcountry skiing.
The ancient city of Nara lies close to Kyoto and Osaka. Around 1,300 years ago it was the capital of Japan, and numerous sacred sites are preserved there dating back to that period of history. Located at the foot of wild mountains covered with thick forest, many of the traditional beliefs and religious rites in this area concern the relationship between people and the living creatures that inhabit this area. There are deer that roam freely around the compound of Kasuga Taisha, the city's main shrine. They have long been considered as the messengers of the deity worshiped there, and to this day the local people take great care of them. Foxes, snakes and monkeys are other animals that are believed to have a connection with the deities. And an annual ritual is held to remember the living creatures that have sacrificed their lives in daily life. On this edition of Journeys in Japan, poet and scholar Peter MacMillan explores Nara and the spiritual practices of this timeless heartland.
In the mountain village of Monobe-located in eastern Kochi Prefecture-a folk belief called Izanagi-ryu has been passed down for generations. Izanagi-ryu harmoniously blends elements of Shintoism, Buddhism and folk religions in a rare style of prayer. Traveler Alessandra Lupi discovers the world of this mysterious belief system. She visits the residence of a tayu; tayu are mentors or leaders of Izanagi-ryu. And, she learns about its religious art and how to make a ritual paper tool called gohei. She also gets to study its Mai Kagura ritual dance. Gradually, after a walk along an ancient Salt Road and farmhouse inn stay, Alessandra gets a sense of how Izanagi-ryu plays an organic role in the rural community.
Manazuru has thrived on quarrying and fishing since olden times. On Journeys in Japan, Kyle Card discovers this small coastal town near Tokyo and its simple attractions, which remain intact not by chance, but by design. The vibrant, civic-minded residents are behind Manazuru's nostalgic landscape.
The Nanyo area of Ehime Prefecture is blessed with abundant water. It lies on the west coast of Shikoku Island, looking out on the Uwa Sea and bathed by the warm Kuroshio Current. Along the coast, rainfall levels are typical of most of Japan. But inland, the Onigajo Mountain Range receives substantially more rain, with some 2,700 millimeters observed each year. Much of that water flows quickly down to the sea, molding the topography of the area. The Yakushidani Valley is among the most beautiful in the country. Thanks to its many waterfalls and watercourses, it has become a popular destination for canyoning. Carved out of the steep slopes, the Izumidani rice terraces are known for the quality of the grain that is grown there, which is attributed to the purity of the water flowing down from the mountains. Offshore, the warm water from the Kuroshio Current mixes with the nutrient-rich fresh water from the mountains, making an ideal habitat for coral and a remarkable variety of marine life. On this edition of Journeys in Japan, Michael Keida follows the flow of this water, from the mountains slopes down to the ocean bed.
Until about 700 years ago, princesses from Japan's imperial family were sent to act as high priestesses at Ise Jingu, the ancient shrine that is considered the most sacred site in Japan's Shinto religion. These servants of the deities were known as Saio and the place where they lived was known as Saiku. In the 14th century, the site was abandoned and eventually it was only known from the ancient legends. But in 1970 excavations began, which confirmed that Saiku stood in the modern-day town of Meiwa-cho, in Mie Prefecture. In this edition of Journeys in Japan, Felicia Gonzalez visits Meiwa-cho to explore this legendary site. She observes the annual Saio Festival, in which people dress in period costume. And she meets the people of this town where present-day culture meets ancient history and the people take pride in the traditions of the past.
Mount Daisen, in Tottori Prefecture in western Japan, stands 1,729 meters high. Often noted for its resemblance to Mount Fuji, it is ranked 3rd on a list of celebrated mountains in Japan. It's also been an object of worship of a mountain religion since ancient times. Daisen-ji temple was built about 1,300 years ago. From olden days, people have come to pray to the Jizo (guardian diety of travelers and children) enshrined at the temple. Our reporter John Daub follows the old pilgrim's path to Daisen-ji temple, encountering traces of the mountain religion. Many people live at the foot of Daisen, enjoying its blessings. John visits a community tofu workshop and samples fresh tofu. Mount Daisen is also home to one of the largest virgin beech forests in western Japan. John explores it on his way up to the summit. He also joins a riveting summer rite in early June that marks the opening of the summer hiking season. Scores of people bear torches in a procession from Daisen-ji temple-appearing like a river of fire.
Each season in Japan brings its own special delicacies. When early summer arrives, that means it's cherry season. Seventy percent of all the cherries grown in Japan come from the Murayama district of Yamagata Prefecture, close to the Mogami River. The soil and climate here are perfect for cultivating the fruit. The moisture drains into the river system, and there is a wide fluctuation between the day and night-time temperatures. The cherries grown here are of a high quality, with a distinctive sweet-tart flavor. Since the old days, buckwheat has also been an important crop in this area. Local farmers have long produced soba noodles from their own home-grown buckwheat. Many of them have converted their homes into restaurants, and customers come from afar to enjoy the fragrance and firm texture of their specialty.
On this episode of Journeys in Japan, actor Dean Newcombe from Britain explores the natural wonders of Tottori, including the majestic Tottori Sand Dunes. He meets farmers growing rakkyo, goes fishing for flying fish with his guesthouse owner, and hangs out with washi craftsmen.
Shirakami Sanchi is a vast region of forested mountains in northern Japan, straddling the border of Aomori and Akita prefectures. It is home to one of the largest virgin beech forests in the world, which has had barely any human impact over the centuries. That is why the core area of Shirakami Sanchi has been registered as a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1993. On this edition of Journeys in Japan, Catalin Munteanu visits this ancient forest, which is also a popular destination for trekking and river activities, such as rafting. Catalin is from Romania, a country that also has extensive beech forests and is keen to see how they compare. On this edition of Journeys in Japan, he encounters the Mother Tree, a beech thought to be 400 years old. He is guided through the forest of Shirakami Sanchi, meets the people who live there and explores this beautiful mountain area in early summer.
Our show's regular narrator Bill Sullivan escapes the studio to travel around the tiny island of Yonaguni in Okinawa Prefecture. He comes into contact with the original culture and customs of the island, while enjoying its food and song. He also takes on quite a challenge: marlin fishing... Tune into this edition of Journeys in Japan to find out the outcome of his marlin tournament and more about Japan's westernmost island!
Marathons are hugely popular in Japan. Every year, hundreds of them take place around the country. But the race held in the town of Obuse, in Nagano Prefecture, is very different. The aim of the Obuse Mini Marathon is not to compete against the clock but for participants to enjoy the hospitality of the local area. There are no major tourist attractions in the town. The runners just move at a relaxed pace through the residential areas and around the surrounding countryside. This event has become famous throughout Japan as the marathon with the largest number of runners in fancy dress. In this edition of Journeys in Japan, Sabrina Sayin comes to Obuse to take part in the Mini Marathon. She also takes time to explore the town, which still retains many buildings from past centuries - including a temple decorated with a work by one of Japan's best known artists, Katsushika Hokusai.
Taisetsuzan, also called Daisetsuzan, is a mountain range home to Hokkaido's highest peak. In addition to its excellent hiking trails, Taisetsuzan is popular for its clusters of alpine flowers that blossom all the way up to the summit in late July, when summer is in full swing. The primeval woodlands at the base of the mountain range are a habitat of the higuma brown bear. Summer visitors often see the animals frolicking on slopes where there are still snow patches. Taisetsuzan lies at a high latitude, so its alpine zone starts at around 1,700 meters above sea level, 800 meters lower than in the Japanese Alps. Komakusa, Ezo azalea and penstemon grow past that point, as well as spectacular clusters of Aleutian avens. On this episode of Journeys in Japan, Peter Skov visits a recently opened flower garden, learns about the brown bears, and sees spectacular fields of alpine flora.
Kyle Card catches Kochi's summertime festival fever by observing, and even joining in, the dynamic Yosakoi where hundreds of colorfully attired people dance throughout the city. He meets people who have long been involved in this freestyle festival, which got its start in the lean postwar years as a way to revitalize the community. And as the city gears up for the major event, which attracts people from all around Japan, Kyle comes across teams passionately rehearsing in the streets. Then, finally, the streets explode in color, music, and dance. Don't miss the singular Yosakoi Festival.
The Awa Odori is a huge dance festival that takes over Tokushima City, Tokushima Prefecture, for four days in early August. It features some 100,000 fired-up dancers and attracts as many as 1.3 million spectators from home and abroad. Our traveler B.T. watches the dancing on the first day. On the second, he learns a few steps and chorus before jumping into the frenzied dancing himself. He also takes a side trip to Wakimachi, an old town near Tokushima City, where he enjoys its traditional townscape and experiences indigo dyeing. At the end of his journey, he heads out by boat to observe giant tidal whirlpools.
Yanai prospered as a port town in the Seto Inland Sea. It was one of the largest merchant cities in the region during the late 18th century. The city has a tenderly preserved district where merchants' white-plaster grand homes, built in the traditional kura storehouse style, line the street. This charming district is adorned with hanging goldfish lanterns in the summertime. There are also Yanaijima textile shops. This hand-woven cotton textile, which features stripes in indigo shades, was once hugely popular but production gradually declined in the 19th century. However, with the passion of the local people, Yanaijima was revived about 20 years ago.
The Nagara River runs for 166 kilometers through the heart of Gifu Prefecture, in central Japan. Although some 830,000 people live along the river banks, the water is renowned throughout Japan for its pristine clarity. It is also famous for its abundant ayu ("sweetfish"), a species of freshwater fish that only live in unpolluted waterways, and which make a summer specialty for food lovers across the country. John Moore was born in Ireland but has lived in Japan for 30 years. On this edition of Journeys in Japan, John explores the Nagara River, meeting with residents who feel a strong bond with this waterway and who work hard to keep the river clean and clear. Their efforts are maintaining the habitat of the ayu fish and supporting the work of local artisans.
The Minami-Izu area lies on the southern tip of the Izu Peninsula, in Shizuoka Prefecture. It is a popular destination for those who love marine sports, such as surfing, snorkeling and fishing. On this edition of Journeys in Japan, Michael Keida explores this rugged coastline. He catches some waves on his surf board. He rents a snorkel, mask and fins so he can look at the subtropical fish that live in the shallow sheltered waters. He goes out angling on a fishing boat, and then enjoys the seafood he catches for dinner at his lodging. The highlight of his trip is when he goes diving off Mikomoto-shima, an island nine kilometers off the coast of Minami-Izu. At this world-famous dive spot, he is lucky enough to see a huge group of hammerheads, a distinctive species of shark that can grow over four meters long.
Cutting through deep forests, the clear Mukawa River in Hokkaido has brought continuous blessings to the people along its way. In this episode, British actor Dean Newcombe follows the waterway 135 kilometers downstream to the Pacific Ocean. He discovers Hokkaido's stellar nature, the Mukawa River's deep history and its Ainu connections.
Kagoshima is the southernmost prefecture of Kyushu. The Japanese word kuro (or "black") plays a very important role in the local culture - starting from the ash emitted by the volcano, Mt. Sakurajima, that overlooks Kagoshima City. kuro plays a key role in producing local liquor, shochu, as well as in the regional cuisine and the pottery made in this area. On this edition of Journeys in Japan, potter Euan Craig discovers the deep significance of Kagoshima's kuro culture.
Kikuma is located in northern Imabari City, Ehime Prefecture. The old town is known for its production of kawara roof tiles-an important industry with a history of more than 700 years. Many homes are decorated with ornate tiles at the end of roof ridges, called onigawara or "ogre tiles." They guard homeowners and town residents. Our traveler Cyril Coppini visits a kawara factory and learns about residents' attachment to the traditional tiles. He also discovers a colorful equine ritual with a history of over 600 years. The sacred rite, held on the grounds of the Kamo Shrine, involves horse racing and a pageant with both horse and rider in vibrant traditional costumes. Cyril meets a father and son who are devoted to the sacred race.
Mt. Togakushi, in northern Nagano Prefecture, has been a focus for religious faith for over 1,000 years. From around the 13th century, it was a sacred center for Shugendo, a mountain religion based around ascetic practices. Then from the 17th century the area became popular among ordinary people as a pilgrimage destination. On this edition of Journeys in Japan, Huang Haiyan follows the old Togakushi pilgrimage trail. She visits the workshop of a craftsman making traditional wares, and also tries her hand at preparing the local specialty, soba (buckwheat noodles). Finally, she climbs to the top of Mt. Togakushi together with a mountaineering guide.
Lake Towada-on the border of Aomori and Akita prefectures-is one of Japan's most scenic spots. The large, double caldera lake is part of a national park. It is surrounded by deciduous broadleaved forest, which bursts into a riot of color in the fall. Kosaka is about forty minutes by car from the lake. The old mining town was once prosperous. The town's many elaborate buildings, blending Western architectural elements, are a testament to its affluence. On Journeys in Japan, we explore the nature around Lake Towada, old copper mines and unique 20th-century architecture.
Karatsu Kunchi is a three-day festival held in November each year in Karatsu City, Saga Prefecture. The highlight is the gigantic floats known as hikiyama that are hauled through the streets of the old town. This tradition has a history dating back more than 300 years. In 2016, the festival was included in UNESCO's intangible cultural heritage list. On this edition of Journeys in Japan, Kyle Card visits Karatsu to discover the spirit of Kunchi. He observes the 14 floats, which each belong to a different neighborhood. And he meets some of the men who make this event happen.
Hiroshima is home to two World Heritage Sites, the Atomic Bomb Dome and Miyajima Island. Other buildings of architectural significance can be found in, and around, the city. Tokyo-based architect James Lambiasi explores the history of Hiroshima-and the nearby areas of Onomichi and Iwakuni-through iconic architectural sites, as well as simple, old dwellings.
On this journey, we visit Yokkaichi in northern Mie, central Japan. This industrial city, with a population of just over 300,000, is home to Japan's first petrochemical complex. It's known as the place where air pollution from sulfurous acid gas emissions caused respiratory diseases, called "Yokkaichi asthma," in the 1960s. Thanks to sweeping environmental protection measures, the environment has been vastly cleaned up, and the petrochemical complex has become a source of tourism-especially its nighttime factory cruises. The city is also famous for its ceramic ware, called Banko-yaki. Some local studios offer pottery-making workshops. Visitors can also take in the tea fields that flank the city's edge and enjoy high-quality beverage in a cafe run by a tea-farming family. Journalist Alice Gordenker travels to Yokkaichi, a city that has recovered from air pollution.
The Northern Alps, which has many mountains over 3,000-meters in height, is located in central Japan. It attracts many mountaineers even in harsh winter when it's covered in snow and ice. The operator of a mountain lodge on Tsubakuro-dake in western Nagano hosts traditional events from year-end to New Year. Mountaineering enthusiasts climb up to the lodge to take part in the New Year countdown and mochitsuki rice pounding on the first day of the year. Later they make an offering of a buri yellowtail at the summit to pray for safety throughout the year. On Journeys in Japan, mountain guide Huang Haiyan scales Tsubakuro-dake via the secluded Nakabusa hot springs. She immerses herself in the breathtaking scenery, camaraderie of fellow-hikers, and New Year's rituals.
Oita Prefecture in Kyushu is one of Japan's best known places for onsen - or hot springs. The city of Beppu is especially famous for its numerous hot spring sources and the volume of hot water - and it attracts many tourists. Marie Krause is from Aachen, in Germany, which is also famous as a resort with many hot springs. On this edition of Journeys in Japan, Marie visits Beppu to discover the many different kinds of hot springs in the city. And she enjoys Japan's traditional onsen culture to its fullest.
Fukuoka is the largest city in southern Japan, and the political and economic hub for all of Kyushu. For more than a thousand years, Fukuoka has had strong links with the Asian mainland, through the port of Hakata. The city is also famous for its rich culinary culture, especially its yatai (street stalls). Each night about 100 of these yatai are set up in three parts of the city. Not only do they serve good, tasty food, they offer a fun, relaxing environment for customers. They are very popular, attracting people from all around Japan and from abroad. On this edition of Journeys in Japan, chef David Wells explores the area around Fukuoka City to discover the local flavors. He also meets with people with a deep knowledge of the region's food culture and history.
Joetsu City in Niigata Prefecture is famous for its harsh winters and heavy snowfalls. Since the Edo Period (1603-1868), people here have built covered arcades known as gangi along their streets. One place that's famous for these gangi is Takada. On this edition of Journeys in Japan, Kyle Card explores the Takada area and meets the people living there, to find out how they feel about their distinctive traditional townscape.
Every year from February to March, ice floes from Russia's Amur River float across the Okhotsk Sea to the shores of eastern Hokkaido, packing against the shoreline. On this edition of Journeys in Japan, Roman Markovtsev from Russia explores this frozen coast and experiences the winter wonderland of ice, both above and below the surface. He joins fishermen who fish in the traditional way on a frozen lake. And he meets with local people who have taken up the sport of curling in a big way.
In Hachinohe city, on the eastern coast of Aomori Prefecture, nature has not always been kind to the people. Rice cultivation has traditionally been difficult in the region due to chilly seasonal winds-called yamase - during the late spring and summer. In the past, residents suffered numerous hardships, including frequent famines. Yet it is this very climate that gave birth to Enburi, which is a ritual folk dance to pray for abundant crops. It's believed that the traditional dance dates back 800 years. Michael Keida from the United States visits Hachinohe to experience how the local people have endured the long, severe winters. He also meets groups of people who work hard to keep their Enburi tradition alive.
The charming old castle town of Makabe is located in the foothills of Mt. Tsukuba, not far from Tokyo. It flourished as a regional cultural and industrial center from the Edo through Taisho periods. About 300 traditional storefronts, warehouses, and gates remain, as well as the original street plan from 400 years ago. The Makabe Denshokan, a former guardhouse, now houses a historical museum. Pick up a map there and stroll around town to take in the buildings registered as cultural assets. The Hina-matsuri (Hina Doll Festival) in Makabe is held annually from the beginning of February to early March. The old stores, and some homes, share their elaborate doll displays with visitors.
Kombu (kelp) seaweed has been an essential ingredient in the Japanese diet for over a thousand years. It is used to make the savory dashi stock that underpins all Japanese cuisine. It also cooked in many dishes to add essential minerals and umami. This kombu seaweed grows in the sea around Hokkaido. In the old days, trading vessels known as kitamae-bune used to carry kombu from Hokkaido to other parts of Japan, traveling down the Japan Sea coast. Toyama was one of the ports of call for those ships, and the kitamae-bune merchants became very wealthy. At the same time, kombu became embedded in the lives and daily food of the local people. These days, people in Toyama use more of the seaweed in their local cuisine than almost anywhere else in Japan. On this edition of Journeys in Japan, Mai Rapsch from Germany visits Toyama to explore its rich food culture and traditions.
The distinctive style of pottery known as Oribe ware made its appearance in Japan towards the end of the 16th century. With its uneven, misshapen appearance, bold colors and eccentric designs, it was an astonishing new style - and one that still seems modern and appealing today. The origins of this pottery are attributed to the samurai warlord Furuta Oribe. Born at a time when Japan was riven by civil war, he became a leading tea master and aesthete. On this edition of Journeys in Japan, David Wells travels to Kyoto, Gifu and Osaka, tracing the lifeline of Furuta Oribe to discover the roots of Oribe ware.
Only 50 kilometers away from the capital the mountainous area offers historic scenery and gentle trekking courses. Local residents are passionate about preserving their old townscapes, dating back several hundred years, and promoting awareness of their natural environment through eco-tours. On Journeys in Japan, China-born mountaineering guide Haiyan Huang enjoys spring foraging for sansai wild edible plants, as well as taking in temples and architecture on Okumusashi's gentle hiking routes.
The Agano River flows through northern Niigata Prefecture, about 200 kilometers to the north of Tokyo. It runs from snow-covered mountains down to the sea, and in the old days it formed an important artery for transportation. On this edition of Journeys in Japan, photographer and haiku poet Kit Pancoast Nagamura meets the people living alongside the river and observes how they mark the arrival of spring.
In the old days, the cities of Ashikaga and Tochigi were post towns along the highway that led to the famous Nikko Toshogu Shrine, where the first Tokugawa shogun was buried. Pilgrims used to make their way along this highway, as did Imperial court messengers from Kyoto. The cities also prospered thanks to their riverside locations. Lumber and other merchandise was shipped downstream and there was a busy trade with merchants in Edo (modern-day Tokyo). Ashikaga boasts renowned tourist sites, including the Ashikaga Gakko, the oldest school in Japan. And the Ashikaga Flower Park draws visitors from far and wide to see the remarkable display of wisteria blossom. On this edition of Journeys in Japan, Leina Bambino visits these two cities where people continue to live with tradition, while preserving the natural environment and creating new attractions.
Atami, in Shizuoka prefecture, is one of Japan's leading hot spring resorts and is only 45 minutes from Tokyo. The city, which has been a resort for hundreds of years, has seen hard times. Tourism was down from the 1990s to 2011. However, in recent years it has been showing miraculous recovery, and the city is regaining its vibrancy. On Journeys in Japan, American actor Charles Glover gets a sense of Atami through its enterprising residents-some running veteran establishments and others turning to innovation to secure their future. He experiences, and shares, why Atami continues to delight visitors.
Nikko, which is a leading tourist destination in Japan, has long been venerated as a sacred place of mountain worship. It is home to the mausoleum of Tokugawa Ieyasu, who unified Japan and founded the Tokugawa Shogunate in the beginning of the 17th century. In the mid-19th century, after a period of isolation, Japan resumed international relations. Nikko soon became one of the most sought after summer playgrounds for Westerners due to its abundant nature and cool climate. On this edition of Journeys in Japan we explore architectural jewels that quietly reveal Nikko's history, including the Nikko Toshogu Shrine where Tokugawa Ieyasu is enshrined, former villas of foreign embassies, and a classic hotel.
The Tsugaru area of Aomori Prefecture has long been known as one of Japan's top districts for developing sumo wrestlers. Since the first national sumo arena opened in 1909 in Tokyo's Ryogoku district, the 69 wrestlers from the prefecture have reached the top division - more than any other area of Japan. There are a number of reasons for this. In winter, Tsugaru receives heavy snowfalls, so people tend to focus on indoor sports, such as sumo. At the same time, the people of Tsugaru are noted for their patience and perseverance, qualities that are prized in sumo. On this episode of Journeys in Japan, American translator B.T travels to the Tsugaru area to watch young sumo wrestlers in action. He is shown around a museum that celebrates the local people's passion for the sport. He also takes in the majestic view from the top of Mt. Iwaki, and visits a museum exhibiting gigantic neputa festival floats.
One hundred drawings portray the customs and scenery of 150 years ago. These scenes are still remarkably visible in the old castle town of Tsuwano, Shimane prefecture. In this episode of Journeys in Japan, Australian actor Luke Bridgford uses the ancient Tsuwano drawings as a map to the town's past, present and future.
Tiny Ojika is part of the Goto Islands of Nagasaki Prefecture, which lies one thousand kilometers west of Tokyo. The population is approximately 2,500. There are only two traffic lights on the island and no convenience stores or large tourist facilities. The back streets offer a glimpse of old Japan. Ojika once thrived as a fishing base of the East China Sea, when over 10,000 people resided on the island. That was around 60 years ago, though, and with the decline of the fishing industry people moved to the mainland for jobs, leading to a sharp drop in the population. Recently, however, a change is occurring here. Increasingly people are moving to Ojika. What is it that they have found in Ojika? A charming place of natural beauty, tradition, community spirit and all at an unhurried pace. In this edition of Journeys in Japan, American translator B.T. travels to Ojika Island. He discovers the island's appeal through interacting with the locals.
The town of Misugi is located deep in the mountains of Mie Prefecture, central Japan. 90% of the town is covered with forests, and forestry is the leading industry. Michael Keida from the United States experiences "forest therapy", which is a scientifically proven method for improving body and mind wellness through woodland walking. He experiences logging firsthand, and learns how to forage for wild edible plants and prepare them in cooking. Michael also meets locals who are committed to preserving the age-old community, and others who have relocated to the area.
The island of Tobishima lies off the coast of Yamagata Prefecture in the Sea of Japan. It is about 10 kilometers in circumference, and is dotted with long-established fishing villages. These days, it has a population of about 200 people. Tobishima is a port of call for migratory birds and an important breeding ground for black-tailed gulls. Its rich natural environment attracts many anglers and birdwatchers. In 2016 Tobishima was designated as a geopark by the Japan Geopark Committee. On this episode of Journeys in Japan, John Moore explores Tobishima, meets the people living here, and learns about their self-sufficient lifestyle.
Yuki (in Ibaraki Prefecture) and neighboring Oyama (Tochigi Prefecture) are famous throughout Japan as the home of traditional hand-made textiles known as yuki-tsumugi. The techniques for producing the yarn, dyeing it and weaving the fabric date back to ancient times and are unique in Japan. That is why yuki-tsumugi was registered by UNESCO in 2010 as an Intangible Cultural Heritage. In the old days, Yuki flourished as a castle town, and many stores and warehouses that were used by the textile wholesalers remain to this day. Some of these historic buildings have been converted into shops and cafes. Meanwhile, Oyama was known for culturing the silkworms that produce the raw silk used for yuki-tsumugi. Leina Bambino meets with some of the artisans in Yuki who produce textiles. In Oyama, she also visits farmers who grow the local specialty, bottle gourds (kanpyo), which are in peak season from late June through August. On this edition of Journeys in Japan: meeting the families - the artisans and food producers - who are working to pass down their skills for future generations.
Mt. Fuji is the most famous peak in Japan. It is also a place of worship, and for centuries pilgrims have made their way to the summit as part of their spiritual practices. That is why Mt. Fuji has been registered by UNESCO as a World Cultural Heritage site. There are several trails leading to the top. Nowadays, most climbers start their ascent about halfway up, from the one of the 5th stations, which can be accessed by car or bus. But in the old days people used to spend many days on the climb, starting from sea level. On this edition of Journeys in Japan, Peter Skov traces the route of the ascetic monks and other pilgrims, following an ancient trail from the seashore at the very foot of Mt. Fuji, up to its very highest point.
Kita-Akita City lies in the north of Akita Prefecture. It is a land of mountains and thick forests. The Akita Nairiku Line runs north-south through this wild terrain. On this edition of Journeys in Japan, Michael Keida visits two areas that can be accessed along this railroad. Since ancient times, there has been a long tradition of hunting in the Ani district. Known in Japanese as matagi, these hunters developed their own language and customs, many of which have been passed down to the present day. Michael meets a modern-day matagi, and learns how these hunters continue to live in harmony with the forests and the animals there. In the Takanosu district, an annual festival is held, in which gigantic drums are played to pray for rain and abundant harvests. On this edition of Journeys in Japan, Michael meets the people of Kita-Akita, and joins them in celebrating their close connection with the natural environment.
Okushiri Island-about 84 kilometers in circumference-is located southwest of Hokkaido in remarkably blue and transparent waters. The island has rare rock formations shaped over many, many years, beech forests dating back more than 100 years, and unspoiled nature. In summer, many visitors come for tasting fruit-of-the-sea delicacies, such as freshly collected sea urchin and abalone. In 1993, the island suffered damage from a tsunami triggered by a massive earthquake. But the island has recovered. People are dedicated in their efforts to pass on the lessons from the disaster to future generations.
Totsukawa, in southern Nara Prefecture, is nestled deep in the mountains. The village's isolation from most of Japan for centuries has contributed to the preservation of many unique, old traditions and customs. Among them is the Oo-Odori dance, which is performed during the summer Bon festival when people welcome back the spirits of their ancestors. The Oo-Odori dance movements and music accompaniment remain unchanged from hundreds of years ago. Winnie Hsu visits Totsukawa to join its residents in the dance. She also experiences farm life when she stays at a farming family's inn. Of course, she also enjoys the natural beauty of Totsukawa, which spreads out along the Kumano River. Through her journey, Winnie discovers how deeply Japanese people are connected with their ancestors and ancestral homes.
The island of Iki lies off the coast of Kyushu, facing out towards the Korean Peninsula. In ancient times, Iki was an important crossroads for international exchanges. These days the island is a modest paradise of unspoiled nature, with beautiful beaches, gentle landscapes and excellent seafood. Just an hour away from Fukuoka by high-speed ferry, it makes an ideal tourist get-away.On this edition of Journeys in Japan, Mai Rapsh explores Iki and meets some of the people who are keeping its traditional charm alive for future generations.
The Seto Inland Sea in western Japan has been a major sea route since ancient times. The Geiyo Archipelago, of large and small islands, crisscrosses the inland sea between Hiroshima and Ehime Prefectures. The mighty Murakami pirates' base ruled these waters from the 14th to 16th centuries. In times of civil war, they allied with warlords using their military might, helping shape history. The primary objective of their activity was not looting, but maintaining order by guaranteeing safe passage of ships for a fee. They even engaged in trade with foreign countries. Tatsumasa Murasame, who is originally from Sweden but has assumed Japanese citizenship, visits the Geiyo Islands to trace this little known chapter of history. And he discovers the people's feelings of awe for the pirates, which have been passed down through the generations.
Kitayama Village lies deep in the mountains of the Kii Peninsula in central Japan. It is a small village, with a population of about 450. Some 97 percent of its area is covered with thick forest. In the old days, the main industry was forestry, and the lumber cut in the mountains used to be transported to the coast by assembling the logs into rafts and floating them downstream on the Kitayama River. Around 40 years ago, the village decided to revive that tradition and offer tourists the opportunity to ride down through the rapids on similar log rafts. Kitayama Village is the only place in the world that offers visitors an experience of this kind. The local specialty is a variety of citrus known as jabara, which only grows in the valley around Kitayama Village. This fruit has a distinctive flavor and is made into a wide range of products that make up a source of income for the village. On this edition of Journeys in Japan, DJ George Cockle visits Kitayama Village to find out what makes this small mountain village so unique.
Mount Gozaisho is a popular tourist destination located on the border of Mie and Shiga prefectures, and easily accessible by car from Nagoya. It's famous for its outdoor activities. Michael Keida from the United States gets the thrill of a lifetime, and a hard workout, as a guide takes him up waterfalls, sheer rock faces and through deep gorges and chimneys. He unwinds with good company over great meals… and time spent in the hot springs.
Fukuoka, the largest city in southern Japan, was a merchant town in ancient times that prospered with foreign trade. It gained two distinctive features in the dawn of the Edo Period (1603 – 1868), when a special district for samurai warriors was established next to the time-honored merchant town. Fukuoka has since nurtured and passed down their respective cultures. Today, you can glimpse such inheritances in amazing spinning top performances and yabusame, the art of mounted archery.
The Houki-cho district lies in the west of Tottori Prefecture close to the foot of volcanic Mt. Daisen. It has a population of around 11,000, most of whom live from farming and rearing cattle. The town lies on an ancient trail once used by the pilgrims who made their way to Izumo Shrine, one of the most venerated Shinto sites in Japan. Because of this proximity, ancient legends of the gods have been kept alive in Houki-cho. Once a year, in October, the local people gather to conduct a traditional ritual that has been passed down through countless generations. The ritual has its roots in an ancient legend that the deity worshipped at the shrine was saved from a shipwreck by octopuses. On this edition of Journeys in Japan, John Daub from the US visits Houki-cho, samples the local specialties and meets the local people who are keeping the old ways alive.
Kanazawa City in Ishikawa Prefecture developed as a castle town of the Kaga Domain under the Maeda Clan's rule. For about 300 years from the late 16th century onward, the powerful feudal lords encouraged the arts, resulting in gorgeous landscape gardening, gold leaf and other crafts. On this edition of Journeys in Japan, TV personality Leina Bambino explores Kanazawa's deep culture through its colors.
Iriomote is 2,000 kilometers southwest of Tokyo in an ocean of corals. The subtropical island enjoys year-round temperature of over twenty degrees Celsius. With ninety percent of the land blanketed in rain forest, it's a popular destination for outdoor pursuits. On Journeys in Japan, Kyle Card visits Iriomote to take in not only the natural splendors but also to witness a unique, 500-year-old festival called Shichi. He discovers a way of life, on this remote island, where locals live close to the land and benefit from its blessings.
The town of Kamioka lies in the mountains of central Japan. It was once famous as a major center for mining. Now the mine is closed, but these days the area has become a center for a new and unusual style of tourism - on mountain bikes that run along the tracks of a disused railroad. On this edition of Journeys in Japan, Dean peddles through beautiful mountain scenery to explore a town that still retains its old-school atmosphere. Finally he arrives in a mountain village where people still follow their traditional, age-old way of life.
Yuzu is a variety of citrus fruit that has long been prized for its superb aroma. A winter specialty, it is an essential ingredient in Japanese cuisine. The Chugei district, in the east of Kochi Prefecture, produces more yuzu than anywhere else in Japan. This area used to depend on timber - it was the most important source of lumber in western Japan. But the forestry industry declined after World War II, so people in Chugei turned to cultivating yuzu trees instead. On this edition of Journeys in Japan, David Wells visits the area to discover the magic of yuzu. He meets the local people who grow the fruit, and explores the villages where this special citrus is an essential part of people's daily lives.
Nichinan city, situated in Miyazaki Prefecture in southwestern Japan, once prospered from fisheries and forestry. Aburatsu, which is a major district along the sea, flourished as a port town. But the area declined when the fishing industry collapsed. The Aburatsu shopping arcade also suffered through competition from a large shopping complex and depopulation in the 1980s. Many of the arcade's shops closed their shutters. But in 2014, a team was formed to revitalize the retail area and many vibrant spaces opened up. On Journeys in Japan, Kyle Card from Canada meets locals who have been creating appealing new businesses as well as community spirit.
Tottori Prefecture ranks number one in Japan when it comes to crab hauls. It's also the largest consumer of the seafood. The prized snow crab, called Matsuba locally, is especially popular as is the less expensive snow crab. Many tourists visit the prefecture to savor them during winter-the best season. On this episode, our reporter Daniel Woolpert enjoys the winter delicacy in various ways ranging from an all-you-can-eat lunch to a refined multi-course dinner. He also enjoys a relaxing dip in a snowy open-air hot spring and strolls around a shopping street that draws customers with manga characters.
Lake Biwa is the largest lake in all of Japan. In winter, its remote northern coast is a place of unspoiled peace and silence. Since the old days, the local people have carefully preserved their places of worship, and their traditional handicrafts. On this edition of Journeys in Japan, Charles Glover follows an ancient highway, to discover an area of almost timeless calm.
Iheya is the northernmost island of Okinawa Prefecture and takes an hour and twenty minutes by ferry from a port in the north of the main island. Approximately 35 kilometers in circumference Iheya has a population of about 1,100. Untouched by large-scale tourism development, the natural environment and people's lives have remained little changed. Our reporter takes a winter break on the remote island where he fishes for young octopus in the low tide at night, goes on a jungle and village run with locals and tourists, and makes tofu with seawater at a home inn…simple and unforgettable experiences.
The city of Kikuchi, in northern Kumamoto Prefecture in Kyushu is known for its prosperous agriculture and livestock industries. Here, natural farming, which eschews fertilizers and agricultural chemicals, is widely adopted. On this edition of Journeys in Japan, Mai Rapsch from Germany experiences the lifestyle of people living in harmony with nature… in a beautiful part of the country of course.
Okinawa, Japan's southernmost prefecture, has developed a distinct architecture all its own, reflecting its subtropical setting and often harsh climate, as well as historical influences from mainland Japan and other countries, such as China and the United States. On this edition of Journeys in Japan, American architect James Lambiasi visits some of Okinawa's most notable buildings. He meets the local people and discovers the complex history that underlies its enduring culture.
Iojima Island lies around 1,000 kilometers southwest of Tokyo, off the south coast of Kyushu. Its main peak is Mt. Iodake, a volcano that remains very much active. The island has a population of slightly over 100 people, most of whom live close to the port, just three kilometers from the volcano. On this edition of Journeys in Japan, Shizuka Anderson from Canada explores the beautiful yet harsh natural environment, discovers the island's distinct culture, and meets many of the people who are living life to the full on this island of mystery and imagination.
Japow refers to Japan's world-famous powder where skiers delight in making tracks in heavenly virgin snow. An ideal place for this in central Hokkaido Prefecture ... on Mount Asahidake and Mount Sandanyama in the Daisetsuzan mountain range. Slovenian Cveto Podlogar, an international mountain guide, rides the powder along with local, professional skier Ken Fujikawa. They glide through Japow knee-deep, sending powder flying in the air.
Minami-Uonuma, in southern Niigata Prefecture, is one of Japan's snowiest regions. Suzuki Bokushi's Hokuetsu-seppu, which describes people's lives there, was published 180 years ago. The book serves as a guide for Australian Jonathan Senior as he explores traditional weaving of a hemp textile and a wild festival passed down since ancient times, as well as the area's distinctive snow culture.
The Oku-Echizen district lies deep in the mountains of Fukui Prefecture, inland from the Sea of Japan coast. The central city of this region is Ono, which first developed as a castle town from the second half of the 16th century. The streets around the castle were laid out in the form of a grid, and even today the town retains the same street plan, with many traditional buildings still to be seen. Ono is also blessed with abundant underground water from the nearby Hakusan mountain range. Neighboring Katsuyama City is the site of a former religious complex that used to be one of the largest in Japan. Excavations are still continuing there to reveal its history. On this episode of Journeys in Japan, Mai Rapsch from Germany meets the people of Oku-Echizen and discovers the way they live, co-existing with the world of nature and deeply immersed in their religious faith.
John Moore, from Ireland, is a social entrepreneur. Euan Craig, from Australia, is a potter. The men take off on a road trip around western Miyazaki Prefecture, in Kyushu. They get a glimpse into the local life in the mountainous village of Shiiba. And in the city of Ebino, they learn about the simple, ancient worship of a rice deity called Tanokansa.
Tateyama is only 80 kilometers from Tokyo, in southern Chiba Prefecture. Off Tateyama spreads a bountiful sea that offers fresh seafood. Recently, the waters have been attracting attention from around the world as a place for cool diving adventures. On Journeys in Japan we explore Tateyama's wondrous underwater world.
Iga, in the northwest of Mie Prefecture, is famous as a place where many ninjas lived, especially in the late 15th to 16th centuries. At that time, the Iga ninjas worked as mercenaries for feudal lords in the surrounding areas. They used their secret techniques in performing acts of espionage and clandestine attacks. There are still many sites in Iga that evoke those days, such as the Ninja Museum and the site of the fortress where they fought a huge army. On this episode of Journeys in Japan, Jennifer Julien visits Iga and meets modern-day ninjas who are keeping the ancient tradition alive.
Hieizan (Mount Hiei) rises high to the northeast of the city of Kyoto, straddling the border between Kyoto and Shiga Prefectures. It is one of the most sacred Buddhist sites in Japan, and has been a focus for people's faith for over 1,200 years. The precincts of Enryakuji temple cover the entire mountaintop, and to this day many priests live there, undergoing spiritual training. Peter MacMillan is a researcher of Japanese literature from Ireland. On this episode of Journeys in Japan, he visits Hieizan to explore the deep spiritual connection that people feel for this sacred mountain.
Uchiko, which is 700 kilometers southwest of Tokyo in Shikoku's Ehime Prefecture, flourished as a pilgrimage post town on an ancient highway. In the city center, Machiya residences have been carefully preserved. Australian actor, Luke Bridgford explores historic Uchiko, discovering its traditional architecture and candle craft, as well as an ancient kite festival in which he participates in a sky battle.
Yamaguchi Prefecture lies in the far west of Japan's main island, Honshu. It has numerous landscapes that are unlike any other part of Japan: a limestone quarry evoking a giant ancient amphitheater; an underground cave system with intricate stalactites and stalagmites; a tiny island where the village boasts traditional walls of stone and plaster; and many more. American actor Charles Glover visits Yamaguchi to take in these magnificent, distinctive views and to discover the stories that underlie them.
Nishi-izu, with stellar views of Mt. Fuji, is located on the western coast of the Izu Peninsula. Geopark sites with strata formed by an undersea volcano are reachable on foot or by boat. The neighboring town of Matsuzaki is known for its beautiful townscape featuring buildings with distinctive Namako plaster walls. Kote-e artworks created with plaster by Matsuzaki craftsman-turned-artist, Chohachi Irie, are also a must-see in this town. Matsuzaki is the largest production region of salt-pickled sakura leaves. We visit people in the industry and hear about the appeal of the leaves. On Journeys in Japan, traveler Leina Bambino explores the culture nurtured in a small port town and the beauty of Nishi-izu.
Japanese green tea is produced from tea leaves that are steamed and then dried, unlike black tea, for which the leaves are first fermented. Shizuoka Prefecture is the largest tea-growing region in Japan. Various kinds of green tea are produced there, according to the ways in which it is grown and processed. On this episode of Journeys in Japan, American actress Ananda Jacobs visits Shizuoka during the peak tea harvesting season. She delves into the history of the region, to find how tea came to be such an important industry. And she meets the people who devote their lives to producing this remarkable drink.
The Hachimantai Plateau straddles the border of Iwate and Akita Prefectures. A large area around its summit is covered by wetlands and during the warmer months, from June onward, these marshes turn into a garden of alpine flowers, attracting visitors from near and far. The Hachimantai region also boasts a wealth of hot springs. There are various ways to enjoy this gift of nature, such as by relaxing in a Rotenburo (open-air bath), while enjoying the view. Or you can enjoy Ganban-yoku, lying down on the warm rocks, soaking in the heat that emanates from the earth. In this area, people like to book into hot spring facilities for long-term stays of a week or more. This system, known as "toji," has long been popular among farmers who come to rest and ease their fatigue in the off-season.
On this episode Charles Glover, an actor from the United States, visits the Tonami Plain in Toyama Prefecture, known for its vast farmlands, especially rice fields. He gets a glimpse into the way of life in a farming village, where people have long lived in harmony with nature. He learns about how the old community is preserving traditions, and architectural heritage, by inviting in people from around Japan to take up residence. His simple, yet charming, journey ends with a spectacular festival.
Rising above the highlands of central Japan, Mt. Hakusan (2,702 meters) is considered of the most sacred peaks in the country. Since ancient times, it has been venerated as the home of the Shinto deities and a paradise of the Buddha. To this day, there is a shrine at the foot of the mountain dedicated to the worship of Mt. Hakusan, with its inner sanctum on the actual summit. The trails to the peak follow ancient pilgrimage routes, which have been carefully maintained since ancient times. Close to the top, there are wild meadows filled with alpine plants that decorate the slopes with their colorful blooms in early summer. On this episode of Journeys in Japan, Australian photographer Peter Skov delves into the sacred traditions, climbs to the summit, explores the wild nature on the mountaintop, and discovers its natural splendor.
Sawara lies in northeast Chiba Prefecture, around 70 kilometers to the east of Tokyo. Thanks to its location on a tributary of the Tone River, by the 18th century it had become a prosperous center for freight transportation. For some 300 years, Sawara has held festivals twice a year, in July and October. Backed by rich merchants, these developed into major events, featuring 24 large and lavish floats. The festivities have now been registered as a UNESCO intangible cultural asset. On this episode of Journeys in Japan, Saskia Thoelen discovers the excitement of the Sawara Grand Festival, and meets the craftsmen and neighborhood residents who make it happen.
Muroran, in southwestern Hokkaido Prefecture, flourished as an industrial city, mainly in steel manufacturing. After the 1970's, the city declined with industrial sector changes and other factors. But in recent years, tourism is up with popular night factory viewing, retro architecture touring as well as dolphin and whale watching. British photographer Alfie Goodrich discovers Muroran's wonderful people and photogenic charms.
The Izumo region in Shimane Prefecture, where deities from across the country are said to gather annually for a meeting, is closely linked to the gods. On this episode of Journeys in Japan, our reporter explores the home of Japanese mythology, visiting a workshop that makes one of the largest Shimenawa sacred ropes for the Izumo Grand Shrine and meeting local residents producing unique works of folk art as offerings to the gods. Jaime Lopez, a wire artist from Chile, takes a close look at the connection between the people of Japan and their gods.
The Michinoku Coastal Trail, which was launched by the Environment Ministry, is a long trail along the Pacific coast that crosses 4 prefectures from Aomori Prefecture, in the north, to Fukushima Prefecture, in the south. Canadian actor, Kyle Card walks a stretch connecting 3 villages in Iwate Prefecture to get a feel of Tohoku's landscape and see how the local people are stepping forward and recovering from the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake.
Rausu lies on the coast of the Shiretoko Peninsula, in eastern Hokkaido Prefecture. Most of the peninsula is designated as a national park, to preserve its rich natural environment. Tours by boat offer visitors the opportunity to see orcas and whales, as well as brown bears on the seashore. The fertile waters off Rausu also provide abundant catches of many kinds of fish. One of the main specialties of this area is kombu (kelp seaweed), an essential ingredient that adds flavor and umami to the dashi stocks that underpin Japanese cuisine. Rausu kombu is considered some of the finest in Japan and is in strong demand from high-end Japanese restaurants around the country. The harvest takes place from late July through the end of August. On this episode of Journeys in Japan, British photographer Alfie Goodrich visits Rausu and meets the kombu harvesters. He also goes to observe the wildlife that proliferates on the peninsula.
Kotohira, in western Kagawa Prefecture developed around the famous shrine complex known as Kotohira-gu. Some 2-million tourists visit annually from all over the world. In the olden days, pilgrims who came from around the country, bought Uchiwa paper fans as souvenirs, and enjoyed eating the local specialty Sanuki noodles. Shizuka Anderson from Canada, experiences the culture of hospitality that developed around these pilgrimages.
The Katsura River runs through a beautiful valley in Yamanashi Prefecture, not far from Tokyo. Fed by springs from Mt. Fuji and the surrounding area, the river is known for the clarity and volume of its water. This episode of Journeys in Japan introduces fun ways to enjoy the Katsura River, such as rafting, tubing, traditional angling, and Sawanobori (river climbing), making it the perfect getaway from the muggy midsummer heat of downtown Tokyo.
The Nakanojo Biennale is an art festival held in beautiful Nakanojo in Gunma Prefecture. It boasts one of the largest artist-in-residence programs in Japan, with creators from all over the world gathering in this small town to work on their site-specific pieces. With world-class contemporary art installations, the festival draws large crowds during its one-month run. Historically known as a hot spring town, Nakanojo has many cultural events passed on to today. Belgian art and fashion PhD candidate Saskia Thoelen discovers how contemporary art has transformed a rural town that also reveres tradition.
The Kishiwada Danjiri Festival is one of the most vibrant and spectacular festivals in all of Japan. Over 2 consecutive days, ornately decorated floats known as Danjiri are pulled through the streets at high speed by teams of over 200 men. The wheels on the Danjiri floats are fixed straight ahead, so they cannot be steered like a car, but the teams pulling them skillfully maneuver the floats around corners. Drawing on their expertise, experience, and bravery, they even put their lives at risk. These thrilling turns are the highlight of the festival. David Pavlina is from the United States. He visits Kishiwada to watch the Danjiri Festival and meet the people taking part. He also visits a local furniture store to discover the traditional craftsmanship, and samples some of the street foods that are popular in this region of Osaka Prefecture.
Iwamizawa is located about 40 minutes by train from Sapporo in Hokkaido Prefecture. It flourished as a transportation hub for coal, but spiraled into decline following the closure of the mines in the 60's and 70's. However, blessed with vast farmland, Iwamizawa was able to transform itself into a leading agricultural district in Japan. These days, people from across the country are migrating to the area where the miners once lived, sparking a new movement. On this episode of Journeys in Japan, Kyle Card from Canada meets people bringing a new vitality to Iwamizawa.
Ise City is in southeastern Mie Prefecture in Central Japan. It is home to one of Japan's most sacred sites, Ise Jingu Shrine. For hundreds of years it has welcomed pilgrims from all over the country. This has nurtured many traditions, such as the tasty confectioneries it offers to travelers and crafts that serve as souvenirs. Jennifer Julien from France takes in the most important rituals of the year, and experiences the culture that was cultivated over time through Ise worship.
Nanyo City lies in Yamagata Prefecture, in the Tohoku region north of Tokyo. The city is focusing on boosting tourism for visitors with disabilities. Wheelchair influencer Ryoko Nakajima visits Nanyo together with US-born TV talent Michelle Fujisaki, to enjoy the barrier-free facilities. They harvest fruit, visit a hot-spring hotel and listen to local folk tales. Then, using special equipment, Ryoko tries paragliding assisted by an experienced instructor.
Osaka is the largest city in western Japan. The 16th-century warlord Toyotomi Hideyoshi, who unified Japan after a long period of civil war, chose it as his power base and built a castle there to serve as the power base for his clan. In the years that followed, Osaka became a major logistical and economic hub. From the mid-19th century, Osaka rode the wave of Japan's modernization and the city expanded rapidly. The development of its spinning industry brought prosperity. During this period it was known as "Great Osaka" and saw the construction of many handsome commercial buildings, several of which survive to this day. From the late 1940's, the city was a driving force for Japan's postwar reconstruction and rapid economic growth. In 1970 it became the first city in Asia to host a world's fair, known as Expo '70. On this episode of Journeys in Japan, American architect James Lambiasi visits Osaka and explores its history and culture, as reflected in its impressive architecture.
Mt. Myogi, located in western Gunma Prefecture, is famous for its unusual rock formations and beautiful autumn foliage. At a little over 1,000 meters, it's not high, but has fun courses, some which require advanced skills, making it a popular with climbers. Since the mountain has been worshipped from ancient times visitors can also enjoy the area's historic atmosphere, including an ancient highway. Our reporter explores Mt. Myogi, with the highlight coming at the end when she climbs a towering T-shaped rock.
Asago lies deep in the mountains of Hyogo Prefecture in western Japan. In recent years it has been drawing crowds of visitors, who come to view its famous "Castle in the Sky," which appears to float above a sea of clouds. The Asago area also has a proud heritage as a major center for mining, and it boasts impressive relics from the time when it played a key role in Japan's modernization. Oscar Brekell is a specialist and instructor of Japanese tea, who comes from Sweden. On this episode of Journeys in Japan, he visits Asago to witness the spectacular natural scenery. He also explores the industrial heritage sites and meets the local people who are working to keep their community vibrant.
The island of Suo-Oshima lies off the coast of southeast Yamaguchi Prefecture, in western Japan. It's one of the prefecture's main areas for growing mandarin oranges. Since the 19th century, the island has had close ties with the US State of Hawaii. On this episode of Journeys in Japan, TV personality Kanoa, who was born in Hawaii, visits Suo-Oshima to explore its rich natural environment and to find out more about its connection with her homeland.
Asuka in Nara Prefecture was the center of Japan's politics and culture for more than 100 years from the end of the 6th century. The advanced civilization that developed there left behind many legacies, especially its mysterious stone structures. The massive monuments have spawned countless theories. Actor Luke Bridgford explores these imposing stone structures, as well as their enduring puzzle, and visits other historic sites.
Yokohama, just south of Tokyo, is a vibrant port city steeped in history. When Japan first opened its first doors to the West in the mid-19th century, they opened in Yokohama. Soon after, a foreign settlement was established, serving as a window to Western culture. Photographer Alfie Goodrich focuses his lens on the cosmopolitan port city, discovering its beauty and multicultural heritage.
Mishima Town, in western Fukushima Prefecture, receives some of the heaviest snowfall in all of Japan. During the winter, when the local people are unable to work in their fields, they spend their days making traditional handicrafts, using vines, leaves and bark from plants that grow wild on the nearby mountainsides. It's a folk tradition that continues to this day. Leina Bambino is an English instructor from the United States. On this episode of Journeys in Japan, she visits Mishima to meet the people living there, and sees how they keep their traditions alive. She also joins in a New Year ceremony that's been held in this area for over 200 years.
The Tsugaru region lies in the west of Aomori Prefecture, far in the north of Japan's main island. It is famous for having some of the heaviest snowfalls in the whole country. The local people are proud of their distinctive traditional culture and food products, which have been passed down to the present day. On this episode of Journeys in Japan, our traveler is Kanoa, a model who grew up in the warm climate of Hawaii and southern California. She visits Tsugaru in the depth of winter, and discovers the warmth that comes from the community spirit linking the people who live in this region.
Akita Prefecture, in northern Japan, celebrates its snowy season with many unique festivals. American illustrator Kailene experiences 3 of Akita's winter festivals and discovers the area's deep traditions.
Located 2,000 kilometers southwest of Tokyo, Hateruma is the southernmost inhabited island in Japan. With a population of about 500, it's known for its beautiful beaches and the local specialty, brown sugar. About 70% of the island's flat land is covered by sugarcane fields. When the cane is harvested in winter, the farmers work in teams, along with seasonal laborers from outside. Since the old days, the islanders have fostered this traditional spirit of cooperation. On this episode of Journeys in Japan, British photographer Alfie Goodrich meets the people of Hateruma, to see how they live on this distant subtropical island.
The Hakkoda mountain range soars in central Aomori Prefecture. It's famous for its heavy snowfall, massive "snow monster" or frost-covered trees and its backcountry skiing. These days more overseas visitors are coming to enjoy the deep powder and local culture. International mountain guide Cveto Podlogar from Slovenia drops down the stunning slopes of Hakkoda with a local guide.
Located in the center of Hokkaido Prefecture, Asahikawa City is Hokkaido's second largest city. It is also one of the coldest places in all of Japan, with winter temperatures often dropping to minus 20 degrees Celsius. In February, the city's annual 6-day winter festival draws close to a million visitors. On this episode of Journeys in Japan, Dean Newcombe and Nakaoka Aki explore Asahikawa in midwinter, and find that it has numerous attractions that are equally accessible to those who use wheelchairs.
Located in central Japan, Kaizu City in Gifu Prefecture and Kuwana City in Mie Prefecture are just downstream of the Kiso Three Rivers -- the Kiso, Nagara and Ibi. They caused major flooding in the past, but also provided people with sustenance. Rakugo performer Cyril Coppini from France explores the area and discovers how people have long coexisted with these water forces.
Ishigaki, in Okinawa Prefecture, is a stunning, sub-tropical island that lies some 2,000 kilometers southwest of Tokyo. This past spring, the mayor introduced a policy to drastically reduce the number of visitors from outside to stem the spread of the coronavirus. Though the restriction was lifted it has dealt a heavy blow to tourism, the island's main industry. Eric van Rijn, who lives on Ishigaki and works in tourism, visits fellow islanders as they try to make a fresh start after the initial corona shock.
Kagawa Prefecture is the smallest of the 47 prefectures of Japan in area. It puts emphasis on the promotion of architecture and art as a main pillar of its regional development. The prefectural commitment began during the post-war era in the mid-1900's when the then governor devised an individual policy to rebuild the prefecture's capital city, Takamatsu. Takamatsu City had been reduced to ruins because of repeated air bombings during World War II. The governor launched a huge project of constructing a new building for the prefectural government office that would serve as a symbol of not only post-war reconstruction but also democracy. The spirit of the governor has lived on to date across the prefecture. On this episode of Journeys in Japan, we introduce several architectures that represent Kagawa, and explore the history and culture of the prefecture that has chosen to follow its own path.
Atami is a resort popular for its dramatic coastline, hot springs and proximity to Tokyo. After a period of decline, it had been making a miraculous recovery until the pandemic. But the community swiftly worked together to introduce measures to face the crisis. And visitors have been going back. Actor Charles Glover, who visited Atami in 2018 for Journeys in Japan, does some armchair traveling to see how old and new friends are getting on.
Otoyo Town in Kochi Prefecture is located in the center of the Shikoku Mountain Range. More than 80% of its land is covered with forest. This mountain community is the only place that produces a special variety of tea, called Goishi-cha. The characteristic of this type of tea is its sweet-sour flavor, which is created through the double fermenting of the tea leaves. Goishi-cha is a traditional specialty of Otoyo, which has been passed down in the community for over 400 years. The tradition of making Goishi-cha was on the point of disappearing, but it has been preserved to the present day, thanks to the efforts of one farming family. We visit the farm where it is produced, to find out how it is produced and how the tradition was kept alive. Otoyo also lies on the Yoshino River, which is one of the 3 rivers with the wildest, strongest currents in Japan -- and also the birthplace of rafting in the country. Many visitors come from far and wide in search of whitewater thrills. On this episode of Journeys in Japan, we meet the people of Otoya, who have kept alive their traditions over the centuries, as well as newcomers who have moved into the community, lured by the beauty of its natural environment.
Kamiyama, Tokushima Prefecture, is a mountain village with a population of 5,000. But despite its tranquil setting, it's home to satellite offices of firms headquartered in Tokyo or Osaka Prefecture. An inflow of people from big cities is bringing changes to Kamiyama. We meet a group of new residents who are working to turn Fusuma Karakuri, which uses background panels for Japanese traditional performing art, puppet theater, into a new form of entertainment. We also visit an outdoor museum with modern artworks. In this episode of Journeys in Japan, Martin Holman, an American who heads a puppet troupe in Tokushima, explores old and new aspects of Kamiyama and zooms in on its charms.
Nanmoku is a village that lies deep in the mountains of Gunma Prefecture, northwest of Tokyo, which blossomed during the period of Japan's modernization over a century ago. It grew and prospered thanks to sericulture -- raising the silkworms whose cocoons were the source of raw silk, an essential cornerstone of Japan's efforts to bring in foreign currency and new technology. However, the development of synthetic fibers led to a drop in demand for raw silk, and this led to the decline of Nanmoku as well. Its population has dropped from over 10,000 some 60 years ago to only about 1,700 residents now. But thanks to its remote setting, the village has been spared large-scale development, and its traditional culture and buildings have been preserved much like a time capsule. On this episode of Journeys in Japan, Teodora Forgo from Hungary explores the beautiful natural setting and fascinating history of Nanmoku Village, deep in the mountains northwest of Tokyo.
Itoshima, in western Fukuoka Prefecture, has been drawing attention in recent years as a popular place to relocate to from major cities. The reasons? Easy access to the prefecture's biggest city, Fukuoka; stunning beaches and mountains, alongside a vibrant startup culture and art scene. On Journeys in Japan, Brandon Chin, an American who fell in love with Itoshima for its ideal work-life balance, shows us around his adopted town.
Ogawa Village in Nagano Prefecture is famous throughout Japan for its beautiful scenery. Even though it lies between 2 popular tourist spots, Nagano City and Hakuba, Ogawa is not overrun by visitors. With its majestic vistas of the Japanese Alps and laidback pace of life, it's the ideal destination for a quiet get-away.
Omi-hachiman is an old castle town that flourished as a transportation hub on Lake Biwa. It retains the remnants of the olden days, including grand merchant homes and the Hachiman-bori moat, which served as a logistics base. William Merrell Vories, who came to Japan from the United States before World War II and designed 1,600 significant buildings across Japan, made Omi-hachiman his home for over half a century. His residence in Omi-hachiman has been converted into a museum. On this episode of Journeys in Japan, James Kohlman, a musician and actor from the United States, traces the footprints of Omi Merchants, who crisscrossed Japan from their base in Omi-hachiman, as well as the remarkable William Merrell Vories. And he meets people in whom their spirits live on.
The Michinoku Coastal Trail runs along the Pacific coast of northeastern Japan, covering a distance of about 1,000 kilometers through 4 prefectures, from Aomori down to Fukushima. It was launched by Ministry of the Environment following the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake. On this episode of Journeys in Japan, Canadian actor Kyle Card hikes from Ofunato to Rikuzen-takata in southern Iwate Prefecture. He enjoys the bracing landscape, meets the local people, and sees how communities along the way are rebounding from the devastating Great East Japan Earthquake and tsunami of 2011.
Yamanashi Prefecture has been a pioneer in winemaking in Japan since the mid-19th century when farmers began converting rice and mulberry fields into vineyards for the native Koshu grape. Nowadays, the crisp white wine has been winning awards at global wine events. On Journeys in Japan, we meet the passionate people behind the most talked about Koshu labels -- some coming from old winery families and others from unrelated industries.
Deep in the mountains of Tochigi Prefecture, 100 kilometers north of Tokyo, Ashio has long been known as a mining town. Copper deposits were first discovered there 400 years ago and mining continued there until the 1970's. In its heyday, the mine produced 40 percent of all of Japan's copper and nearly 40,000 people lived in the area. Although mining brought prosperity, it also created massive pollution: Ashio became infamous as the site of the country's first major pollution disaster. Sulfur dioxide gas from the refining process killed off the surrounding forests. And huge amounts of toxic chemicals were carried downstream to the lowlands by the Watarase River. Potter Euan Craig grew up in Bendigo, southeastern Australia, a community that also suffered from the effects of mining pollution. On this episode of Journeys in Japan, Euan travels to Ashio to see for himself how people have brought life back to the mountains, thanks to a massive reforestation program. He also visits the Watarase Retarding Basin in the lowlands, and observes how it too has taken on a new life.
The Michinoku Coastal Trail stretches more than 1,000 kilometers along the Pacific coast, crossing 4 prefectures from Aomori in the north, to Fukushima in the south. Canadian actor, Kyle Card hikes a length of untamed nature in Miyagi Prefecture, starting from the northern border with Iwate Prefecture to Kesennuma and Onagawa. He savors the rugged landscape and sees how locals are moving forward and recovering from the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake.
The city of Ojiya is hidden in the mountains of central Niigata Prefecture, some 200 kilometers north of Tokyo. Because this region gets some of the heaviest snowfall in all Japan, it is known as the Snow Country. Since the old days, people in Ojiya have used this location and climate to their advantage, developing a distinctive culture and traditions all their own. These include Nishiki-goi (ornamental carp) and Ojiya chijimi, a fabric that is recognized by UNESCO as an intangible cultural heritage. On this episode of Journeys in Japan, Paul Riley visits Ojiya in the autumn months, to discover its traditional specialties.
Ibaraki Prefecture, which stretches along the Pacific Ocean, is known for its diverse nature. Along with the sea, expansive plains, forests and lakes have made Ibaraki a leading agricultural and fishery producer in Japan -- feeding its people, and Tokyo residents. On this trip, Japanese chef David Wells, originally from the United States, tastes his way through the area, enjoying the flavors of fall and winter. The highlights? Hitachi Aki Soba noodles in the prefecture's north, Hoshi-imo dried sweet potato on the coast, and Kan-shijimi clams in Lake Hinuma.
The Kyotango area of northern Kyoto Prefecture is known as the birthplace of Tango Chirimen, a variety of crepe silk with a finely crimped texture and luxuriously soft feel. For 300 years, this fabric has been an essential part of its history and culture. On this episode of Journeys in Japan, we meet the people who produce Tango Chirimen, from the craftsmen who maintain the traditional skills of weaving and dyeing, to the modern artisans creating contemporary designs. And we explore the deep connection of this fabric with the natural environment of the Kyotango area.
Tsu in Mie Prefecture prospered as a castle town during the Edo period (1603-1868). Situated close to Ise Jingu, one of Japan's most significant Shinto shrines, it has been a crossing point for pilgrims since ancient times. Tsu is known for its appealing post town architecture, as well as its historic shrines and temples. Dance performer, and local resident, Yuko tours the sacred sites while holding a wish for the pandemic's end in her heart.
The island of Tsushima, in Nagasaki Prefecture, lies between Japan and South Korea, just 50 kilometers from the South Korean port city of Busan. Thanks to its location, the island developed as a thriving hub for trade and cultural exchanges between Japan, the Korean Peninsula and mainland China. Tsushima has also played a strategic role on the frontline between the regional powers. From the Battle of Baekgang (663) and the Mongolian expeditions of Japan (1274 and 1281) to Japan's invasions of Korea under Toyotomi Hideyoshi (1592-1598) and the Russo-Japanese War (1904-5), it has had a long and turbulent history but has overcome all challenges. On this episode of Journeys in Japan, Brandon Chin explores Tsushima, meets the residents, and discovers the important role the island has played in Japan's history and international relations.
Moji, just over 800 kilometers west of Tokyo, is on the northernmost tip of Kyushu. Facing the Kanmon Strait -- an easy access route for Japan's main island and mainland Asia -- Moji prospered as a major sea transportation post from the Meiji to early Showa periods. Businesses catering to the port visitors, including foreigners, cropped up. And much of the Western-style architecture of the time has been preserved. On Journeys in Japan, Winnie Hsu strolls around the old port town, tracing its legacy.
Hokkaido Prefecture in mid-winter is a frigid land of snow and ice, where temperatures can drop below minus 20 degrees Celsius for weeks on end. But this is the perfect time to see wildlife and natural phenomena that can only be glimpsed at this time of year. And, of course, it's a paradise for winter sports and other outdoor activities. This episode is presented by Bill Sullivan, the narrator for Journeys in Japan. He loves Hokkaido and the great outdoors. Right now, he can't make any trips, due to the coronavirus pandemic. But he hasn't stopped making travel plans. So this time he introduces 3 places and activities that are on his wish list, all in Hokkaido.
Winter in Hokkaido Prefecture... It's a fascinating time to visit for the stunning snowscapes and natural phenomena caused by the severe cold. Kussharo, located in a huge caldera, is part of the Akan-Mashu National Park. Cradled by the outer rim of the crater, heavy, cold air accumulates and the temperature plummets below minus 20 degrees Celsius on windless days. Lake Kussharo is the largest lake in Japan that completely freezes over. Hot springs gush out from many spots, releasing steam. Snow, ice and the steam interact in the ultra-low temperatures to create mysterious and stunning natural works of art.
The city of Otaru, on the Sea of Japan coast of Hokkaido Prefecture, was founded about 150 years ago and grew rapidly as the main port for shipping coal from mines in the region. It also became the primary fishing port for the massive herring catch. The fish were used as fertilizer by farms growing cotton. For this reason, demand was strong and herring fetched a high price. Many people made their way to Otaru hoping to prosper from the herring business, and the city's population grew rapidly. In response to this economic boom in Otaru, as many as 25 banks opened branches in the city and it became Hokkaido's financial and trading center. On this episode of Journeys in Japan, Isis Berns explores the city of Otaru, delving into its history of fishing and glass-making, to discover the proud vestiges of its past prosperity.
Nagoya is in Aichi Prefecture in central Japan. While it is sometimes compared unfavorably to Tokyo, Kyoto Prefecture and Osaka Prefecture, there is more to the city than meets the eye. It's a fascinating place steeped in history. From the ancient Atsuta Jingu, a shrine with deep ties to the Imperial Family, to contemporary buildings we explore renowned architecture old and new to reflect on the culture of Nagoya.
Elegant and charming, goldfish have captured the hearts of people in Japan for centuries. One of the main areas where they are produced is the historic city of Yamatokoriyama in Nara Prefecture. Although this region of Japan does not receive a lot of rainfall, there is abundant groundwater. There are many rivers running through the city, and reservoirs have been built to make use of their water. Over the centuries, the terrain was modified until it was perfect for goldfish breeding, and it took off in a big way. This time on Journeys in Japan, US photographer Seri Nieves visits Yamatokoriyama to explore the deep connection with water and goldfish in this ancient castle town.
Outdoor guide Daniel Moore gets a taste of deep mountain life on a drive around Minami Shinshu in southern Nagano Prefecture. On his way he stays in an abandoned old post town, hikes with a hunter, visits a master wood artisan, camps under a blanket of stars, shoots down the Tenryu River in a traditional boat and sips tea high up on a farmer couple's terraced slope.
As spring changes to summer in Japan, there is a period of about a month when rainy, cloudy conditions persist. This transitional season is known as Tsuyu. On this episode of Journeys in Japan, we introduce some of the beautiful, mysterious natural phenomena that can be seen at this time of year, as well as an event traditionally held in rural communities across the country. The program is introduced by Michael Keida, who has a smallholding near Tokyo where he cultivates around 200 different kinds of vegetables and other crops using organic methods.
Islands -- stringing along 3,500 kilometers, north to south, in the Pacific -- so narrow that no point is ever far from the sea. Coastlines alone spanning 35,000 kilometers… We dip under the waves to explore the Japanese archipelago's epic world of water. Tagging along with Michael Keida, and on one dive with Bonnie Waycott, we delight in tropical and temperate zone marine life, corals, 2 shark species and a friendly Asian sheepshead wrasse. Michael reminisces in the studio about his adventures with narrator Bill Sullivan.
The Ise-Shima National Park is one of Japan's most popular sightseeing areas, but not so many people visit the islands that lie offshore from Toba City. On this episode of Journeys in Japan, Ogawa Niki visits 2 of those islands. In Toshijima he explores the back alleys of a fishing town, where the distinctive tradition and local culture remain strong. And in Kamishima he discovers the setting for a novel that has become one of Japan's most popular love stories.
Because Japan's landmass extends north-south through a number of different climatic zones, farmers can cultivate a wide variety of different produce, reflecting the local environment and conditions. On this episode of Journeys in Japan, we look back at episodes from past years celebrating the variety of summer vegetables that are grown around the country. We follow our reporters as they visit farms in 3 parts of Japan. We find Renkon (lotus root) being cultivated in the fertile soil and abundant water of Ibaraki Prefecture. We discover how Rakkyo (a kind of shallot) is grown in the sand dunes of Tottori Prefecture. And we introduce Kanpyo, a preserved food produced in Tochigi Prefecture, which has been part of the Japanese diet for over 300 years.
A stunning mountain bike course has been carved into a mountain of a Genkai-shuraku -- a marginal hamlet where more than 50% of the population is aged 65 or over -- in Saga City. The trail has attracted new faces and energy to Chiyanoki Village, which is facing depopulation and super-aging. Masunaga Eiichi, who ran a mountain bike shop in Fukuoka City, spearheaded the trail project and eventually relocated there. He spent years cultivating relations with the locals before they would allow him to design and build his trail. His strategy was patience, and offering community volunteer work along with his bike rider friends. Eventually, he got the green light. And in return he and his colleagues regularly help trim back vegetation and clear roads. Residents and newcomers are now forging a vibrant culture.
On Journeys in Japan, we've discovered the history and culture of many places through their architecture. On this episode, we revisit Nikko, Okinawa Prefecture and Osaka Prefecture, to take a close look at significant buildings and how they connect with the people.
Festivals are an essential element of summer in Japan. Held around the country, some feature music and dancing, others spectacular lights or massive floats. On this special episode of Journeys in Japan, Shizuka Anderson introduces 4 of the largest, most exuberant summer festivals that have been featured in previous shows. Each has its own history and local traditions that often date back centuries. What they all share in common is the passion and intensity of their local communities.
Located on the coast of Miyagi Prefecture, Ishinomaki City long flourished through fisheries. The 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake ravaged the city, leaving 4,000 people dead or missing -- making it one of the worst hit areas. Richard Halberstadt from Great Britain was a victim of the disaster. Now as the director of the city's information center on March 11, he conveys the reality of that time to visitors. On Journeys in Japan, Richard and his friends take us on a tour of recovery. Looking back, they're passing on the memory of the earthquake and tsunami.
Modern mountaineering was born in Europe in the second half of the 18th century. Offering vigorous exercise along with magnificent views, the sport of Alpinism soon caught on around the world and was introduced to Japan in the Meiji period (late 19th century). In Japan, people have been climbing mountains since ancient times, as an important part of their religious practice. Even today, many Japanese people venerate major peaks as the abode of the deities. Traditional rituals are held to mark the opening of mountain trails for the climbing season, and prayers are offered at sunrise on some mountain peaks. On this episode of Journeys in Japan, we revisit some of the sacred mountains that we have featured in the past, introduced by the director who made those programs. He will also climb Mt. Oyama in Kanagawa Prefecture, another peak that has been worshiped since the old days.
With the world pandemic, music venues across the globe have gone silent. So this time on Journeys in Japan, American actor Charles Glover takes us back in time to get lost in live music. He revisits Kobe, the city of jazz, Tsugaru, the heart of the shamisen and Osaka, the place for the blues. And he gets the word from local musicians about the current situation in their area.
Across Japan, communities highlight their distinctive charms to attract visitors. On this episode of Journeys in Japan we revisit 3 locales that have come up with creative ways to put themselves on the map, becoming known not only in Japan but around the world.
When people think of the samurai they imagine fearless warriors skilled in the martial arts. But that's just one side. In this episode, we look at how elite samurai promoted artisanal culture and works of art even outside Edo (old Tokyo) and Kyoto. We trace their footsteps in Kyushu, Ishikawa Prefecture, Yamagata Prefecture and Aomori Prefecture.
On Journeys in Japan, photographer Alfie Goodrich framed his lens on Hokkaido Prefecture's Muroran and Rausu in 2019. Muroran is an industrial city that flourished on steel. Though it fell on some hard times, it is coming back with events targeting youth culture fans. Rausu is a sliver of a town nestled on the Shiretoko Peninsula -- a World Natural Heritage Site. It is famous for its untouched nature and wildlife, as well as its prized kombu kelp.
Japan has about 6,800 islands that are larger than 100 meters in circumference. More than 500 of them are classified as "remote border islands." On this episode of Journeys in Japan, we revisit 3 of them -- the Oki Islands, Iki, and Tsushima -- to explore their culture, traditions and distinctive history on Japan's frontline.
Since ancient times, Shinto rituals have been held at sacred sites across Japan, bringing people together and creating bonds between the participants through their shared faith. Many of those rituals are held in the autumn. Moreover, the 10th month of the lunar calendar (November in the Gregorian calendar) is a time when the many deities of Japan are said to gather for their annual conference. On this episode of Journeys in Japan, we take a deeper look at the diverse and vibrant rituals of Shinto, meet some of the people who take part in them, and discover the deep bonds that link those participants.
The Northern Alps, which extend some 150 kilometers, are the most popular among climbers in Japan. Many of its peaks tower more than 2,000 meters with 10 topping 3,000. Along the ridgeline alpine views rarely identified with Japan stretch out. Due to strong seasonal winds, climbers can enjoy nature that changes dramatically through the seasons. And, along with the show's director, that's just what we do this time on Journeys in Japan.
Around the turn of the 20th century, mining towns sprang up around Japan to meet the nation's growing demand for mineral resources. Communities flourished and grew rapidly, developing a culture of their own. But as the seams became depleted and prices fluctuated, their decline came even faster. Now, a century later, those towns are looking for ways to build a new future. On this episode of Journeys in Japan, we look back at 3 visits to mining towns, charting their changes and finding out what makes them special today.
This time, we trace Japan's legend of gold. The precious metal was actually first mined in Michinoku -- an old name for northern Iwate and Miyagi Prefectures -- in the 8th century Nara period. A photographer visits Hiraizumi and its golden Konjikido, meets a gold leaf artisan, ducks into an old mine and even pans for gold.
The traditional pottery town of Kasama lies about 100 kilometers northeast of Tokyo, about 1.5 hours away by train or car. Surrounded by verdant hills, it enjoys an abundant natural environment. Until the early Showa era (1930s-1940s), Kasama was a major production center of ceramics for everyday use, such as pots and mortars. In recent decades, along with changes in people's lifestyle, the focus of Kasama ware has shifted to tableware and interior goods. Thanks to the town's relaxed atmosphere and openness to outsiders, many potters have moved there from other parts of Japan, producing their own individual works, often using methods they have developed themselves. Euan Craig is a potter from Australia who has lived in Japan for about 30 years. On this episode of Journeys in Japan, Euan visits Kasama, to meet the local craftspeople who live and work in this evolving pottery town.
One of Japan's oldest roads, the Yamanobe no Michi runs about 25 kilometers along the foot of the mountains in the Nara basin, linking Sakurai and Nara Cities. Agriculture prospers along the route, which is also dotted with many significant shrines and ancient burial mounds. Michael Keida, an American actor who also farms, heads down the southern stretch, visiting historical places and meeting people who live close to the land.
The city of Hamamatsu lies in Shizuoka Prefecture, midway between Tokyo and Osaka Prefecture. Since the old days, the area has thrived as a key point on the route connecting eastern and western Japan. Nowadays it is known as a hub for manufacturing. Many companies in Hamamatsu started off as small factories but have now grown into global brands, especially in the fields of motorcycles and musical instruments. On this episode of Journeys in Japan, we visit some of these companies, to spotlight their remarkable level of craftsmanship.
Matsusaka City of Mie Prefecture is famous for its premium Matsusaka Beef. In the Edo period (1603-1868), it prospered as a merchant town owing to its location on the pilgrimage route to nearby Ise Shrine. Various goods, information and people concentrated here, eventually producing Japan's leading merchants. Lena Yamaguchi from Germany explores Matsusaka where traces of the castle and merchant town remain.
JAPOW. It's the incredibly fluffy and abundant powder snow that attracts skiers from all over the world. This time, we take you backcountry for floating down thrilling terrain in Hokkaido, Nagano, Niigata and Aomori Prefectures.
Since the old days, many festivals have been held across Japan to mark the changing seasons and reflect the agricultural cycle. Most autumn festivals are an expression of gratitude for the harvest, and celebrate the return to the mountains of the god of the fields. Winter festivals take place in the off season. And spring festivals are held before the start of farming work, to pray for their crops. In this episode of Journeys in Japan, we revisit 3 festivals held from fall to early spring — festivals that usher in the beginning of spring.
Since ancient times, people in Japan have felt a profound veneration for the bedrock of their land. Quarried and mined, this rock has been skillfully used to create the stone walls of castles and buildings. It is also the base material for statues carved as an expression of religious faith. And in some places, there is a strong belief in the spiritual power of those forms in stone. On this episode of Journeys in Japan, we travel to 4 sites — in Okayama, Tochigi, Oita and Aomori Prefectures — to discover this deep, mysterious relationship.
On this episode, we look back at our architecture features and pick up some wondrous, inspiring shapes and their place in the landscape. In Hiroshima Prefecture, the Itsukushima Shrine literally sits on the ocean. In Kagawa Prefecture, an island dedicates itself to art and architecture. And in Nagoya, a merchant's residence, which inspired a world-renowned architect, has been preserved. Let's unravel their secrets.
In the third of our programs introducing Japan to active wheelchair travelers, Ryoko Nakajima and Shizuka Anderson explore Nagasaki Prefecture. It is one of the hilliest cities in Japan, with more than 40% of it built on hillsides. They find a community with deep religious faith and also dark memories of war. They meet with an atomic bomb survivor, and also 2 singers from Ukraine. On this edition of Journeys in Japan, Ryoko and Shizuka explore the city, conquer the challenging terrain and pray for peace.
Himeji Castle is the finest surviving example of early 17th-century castle architecture in Japan, with its main keep intact for 4 hundred years. For its soaring elegance and color, it is fondly called the White Heron Castle. On this episode of Journeys in Japan, we introduce not only the beauty and history of Himeji Castle, but also the culture and tradition of the town surrounding it.
Around 70 percent of Japan's landmass is covered by forest, and this has given rise to the country's distinctive wood-based culture. Nowhere is this more visible than around Maniwa, in northern Okayama Prefecture. For centuries, this area has been one of Japan's leading producers of timber, with extensive plantations devoted to Sugi (cedar) and hinoki (cypress) trees covering the surrounding mountains. Wood merchants from all over the country gather in the historic Katsuyama district in the center of Maniwa, to attend the timber market held 3 times a month. In the old days, the logs used to be transported by boat down the Asahi River, and the former loading wharf can still be seen. The traditional townscape in Katsuyama has changed little over the past 2 centuries, and many shops line the scenic streets, each with its own traditional Noren shop curtain dyed from hinoki bark. The town has also come up with creative new ways for using its timber. Wood chips generate electricity in a bi
Iwaki City in Fukushima Prefecture has been making steady progress in its reconstruction efforts since the Great East Japan Earthquake struck 11 years ago. But catches of seafood have not recovered to pre-disaster levels. Also, the city's mountainous districts have faced rapid depopulation. These days, young people in the city have been taking matters into their own hands. They are working hard to revive communities, driven by their passion to try something new while preserving tradition. On this episode, Ebony Bowens goes up to Iwaki to meet some of these bold individuals.
The Ariake Sea borders lies in the northwest of Kyushu, bordering on 4 prefectures: Nagasaki, Saga, Fukuoka, and Kumamoto. Its huge tidal range, as much as 6 meters, is the largest in Japan. Low tide reveals massive mudflats stretching out some 7 kilometers from the shore. This ecosystem is home to some very unusual creatures, and since the old days it has provided a rich bounty of seafood for the local people. On this episode of Journeys in Japan, we explore this unique environment, its history and culture.
Japan's indigenous belief called Shinto worships 8 million deities. Its imported Buddhism addresses the afterlife. Throughout the ages, people have turned to different gods for different occasions. On Journeys in Japan, we encounter rare religious objects venerated in the Murayama region of Yamagata Prefecture.
The Suzuka Circuit is one of the most famous racing tracks in all Japan. For that reason, Suzuka City (Mie Prefecture) is often known as the "City of Motorsports." The area is also a hub for engineering and manufacturing, especially in the field of motorsports. On this episode of Journeys in Japan, Jennifer Julien from France visits Suzuka and discovers that it also has a long history of traditional craftsmanship.
A father and daughter head to Iriomote, the largest of the Yaeyama Islands far away in southwestern waters. Covered 90% by subtropical jungle, its rich ecosystem earned the World Natural Heritage site status in 2021. The duo is on a quest to encounter its famous, endemic Iriomote cat. Along the way, they kayak, hike, snorkel and meet wonderful people connected to the island's nature.
Along the shoreline of northeast Japan, a 400-kilometer sea wall has been built to protect people living in the region from future tsunami disasters. In the coastal community of Shinhama, Sendai City, this sea wall is already being transformed into a sand dune, with plants starting to grow over it. For countless generations, people in Shinhama have coexisted with the seafront environment. Although the massive tsunami of 2011 devastated their area, the natural environment has started to recover at a speed that has surprised the experts. On this episode of Journeys in Japan, Catrina Sugita from Switzerland, visits Shinhama to meet the local residents and to find out why nature has rebounded so strongly in this area.
If you venture up north from Hyogo Prefecture's castle town Tamba-Sasayama, you will arrive in a picturesque village from another time. This is Maruyama, which until recently faced extinction, but was reborn as a village inn. On this journey, Canadian hotelier Vincent Ng explores the village, meeting its residents and discovering the story of its revival.
We look at Okinawa Prefecture through its stunning textiles. The island chain is a treasure trove of "somemono" (thread-dyed cloth) and "orimono" (piece-dyed cloth). The subtropical climate nurtures diverse plants, offering an abundance of fibers and natural dyes. Okinawa was a maritime trading hub in Asia for hundreds of years, ushering in sophisticated culture and advanced techniques, which in turn nurtured distinctive fabric styles. In this episode of Journeys in Japan, we discover this cultural legacy.
One of the attractions of hiking in the mountains of Japan is the chance to experience the thrill of traversing. Japan is one of the few places in the world where hikers have the opportunity to walk along ridge lines connecting mountain peaks at high altitude. A major factor that has boosted the popularity of hiking in Japan is the presence of mountain huts along major trails. Because they supply bedding and food, people can traverse the mountains for several days at a time without needing to carry heavy camping equipment with them. On this episode of Journeys in Japan, Hayashi Emiri follows one of the finest trails in all Japan — traversing the Jonen Mountain range in Japan's Northern Alps — together with Hirakawa Yoichiro, a mountaineer and guide with extensive experience. As well as enjoying the breathtaking views, she also discovers how the mountain huts have coped during the coronavirus pandemic.
The town of Wakasa-cho lies on the coast of Fukui Prefecture, looking out on the Sea of Japan. In the old days, the town thrived as a key hub on a highway connecting the region with Kyoto. Each year in August, a traditional dance known as Rokusai Nenbutsu is performed by people in this town. The ceremony, which dates back over 700 years, is held to mark the midsummer Obon holiday, when the ancestors are believed to return to their former homes. On this episode of Journeys in Japan, rakugo artist Cyril Coppini meets the local people who are keeping alive this tradition, to ensure that generations to come will continue to welcome the spirits of their forebears.
Isabella Bird explored Japan in 1878, a mere ten years after the country had opened its doors to the West. She was accompanied by just one young man who served as both her interpreter and attendant. Unbeaten Tracks in Japan is her highly praised travelogue of that journey. Riki Ohkanda, a media personality well versed in Japanese culture, follows a length of the route that Isabella traveled from Yokohama to Nikko.
Lake Chuzenji lies in the highlands of northwest Tochigi Prefecture, above the city of Nikko. Thanks to its altitude, it became a popular summer resort for foreign embassy officials during the Meiji Period (1868-1912). One of the first to discover its beautiful scenery was Ernest Satow, a British diplomat and linguist who had a major influence on Japan as it opened up to the world. Satow built his villa on the lakeshore, and often visited in search of recreation and relaxation. On this episode of Journeys in Japan, Alfie Goodrich explores Lake Chuzenji in the guise of Ernest Satow. He visits some of the locations that Satow would have known, and also travels to other areas in Tochigi where modern-day approaches to recreation and relaxation have taken root.
Tono is the setting for the Legends of Tono, often dubbed the Grimms' Fairy Tales of the East. The book, compiled by leading folklorist Yanagita Kunio about 110 years ago, consists of the wondrous folktales Yanagita heard from Tono-native Sasaki Kizen. On Journeys in Japan, Jonathan Senior travels north to Iwate Prefecture and a remote hamlet where the pages of the Legends of Tono come to life.
For centuries, the ancient Tokaido highway was the most important road in all Japan. It linked Kyoto, the emperor's capital, with Edo, the city of the shoguns, now known as Tokyo. These days, the old road has mostly been paved over for modern traffic. But there's still a long section where visitors can walk along the original route. Known as Hakone Hachiri, it runs between Odawara (in Kanagawa Prefecture) and Mishima (Shizuoka Prefecture) and it offers many glimpses of the history and traditions of Japan's feudal period. Visitors will see the original stones paving the road; giant cedar trees lining the route; a centuries-old tea house; traditional crafts shops; and hot springs where weary travelers still stop to ease their aching legs. On this episode of Journeys in Japan, Michael Keida discovers many reminders of old Japan, while hiking along Hakone Hachiri.
Kumamoto Castle was built by the feudal lord Kato Kiyomasa. The construction began in the late 16th century and was completed in the 17th century. Designated as a National Special Historic Site, it is also known as Ginnan Castle (ginkgo castle) because of a great ginkgo tree near the main tower. On this episode of Journeys in Japan, James Lambiasi explores the legacy of the sprawling castle, meeting local people and learning about the reconstruction efforts after the 2016 Kumamoto Earthquake.
The city of Nagoya is the capital of Aichi Prefecture and the hub of Japan's third largest metropolitan region. Located midway between Tokyo and Osaka, it is not just a major economic center, it also boasts a rich history and a vibrant contemporary culture. On this episode of Journeys in Japan, we explore Nagoya through the eyes of two long-time residents: Elisabeth "Elly" Llopis from Spain and Lena Yamaguchi from Germany. Elly and Lena are very enthusiastic about their adopted hometown, and they introduce some of the people, areas and foods that make Nagoya so special for them.
Ozu lies in the heart of Ehime Prefecture surrounded by unspoiled forested mountains. Ozu Castle stands in the center of the old town, overlooking the Hijikawa River in a district of traditional residences and other historical buildings. This time on Journeys in Japan, American actor Charles Glover visits Ozu and discovers that it is possible to stay the night inside the castle donjon (main keep) — the only place in Japan where this is possible.
Shoyu, or soy sauce, is a condiment at the heart of Japanese cuisine. In Kyushu it evolved into an array of flavors and aromas with locals pairing different types according to the dish. As you move south, shoyu tends to become sweeter. In this journey, we travel 350 kilometers, from north to south, to discover the depth of shoyu.
Jonathan Senior discovers Japan's iron history in Yasugi, a transport hub from long ago. He learns about the old clay tatara furnaces for producing steel blooms and visits an impressive castle ruin. His trip also takes him to artisan studios for crafting swords, incense and iron candle stands.
Matsue, in Shimane Prefecture, is renowned as a center for wagashi (traditional Japanese sweets). Around the 18th century, more than 100 kinds of confections were created there, elevating the city as one of Japan's most famous centers for wagashi, alongside Kyoto and Kanazawa. To this day, this culture remains an important part of daily life, and for many people it is customary to enjoy these confections as a snack with tea each day in the mid-morning and mid-afternoon. This culture was introduced to Matsue some 300 years ago along with the tea ceremony by the feudal lord of the Matsue domain, Matsudaira Harusato―who is also known as Lord Fumai. Many of the wagashi treats developed in the city during his life are still favorites with the local people. On this episode of Journeys in Japan, American artist Brandon Chin explores the world of wagashi in Matsue, meeting local artisans who are still carrying on the tradition.
John Moore travels into the darkness and light of Kochi Prefecture, taking in paintings by lantern and night fishing by flickering lights.
The Mogami River is one of the most important waterways in northern Japan. It runs for 229 kilometers through Yamagata Prefecture, with around 80% of the prefecture's population living along its basin. From the 17th century, the river became a major transportation route, carrying people and cargo such as rice and safflower down to the coast, and from there as far as Kyoto and Osaka Prefecture. To this day, many towns along the river retain traces of their historic streetscapes and culture. In this episode, Catrina Sugita from Switzerland visits a community close to the Mogami River. She meets people who are keeping alive local traditions for surviving through the harsh, snowbound winter months. And she discovers the charm and bounty of this waterway known to the locals simply as their "Mother River."
Nagano Prefecture, surrounded by beautiful nature, has some of the longest life expectancies in all of Japan. What's behind this? Daniel Moore, an American tour guide living in Nagano, explores his adopted turf to discover the secrets to longevity in one of the country's snowiest regions.
Akita, Yamagata and Niigata prefectures are known for their bitterly cold winter weather, with very heavy snowfall. In the old days, the people living in these areas developed warm textiles to help them survive the harsh conditions. They wove fabrics that incorporated fluffy fibers from wild plants or the down of wildfowl. And they developed unique quilting techniques to make their cotton clothes thicker and more robust. They also took advantage of the snow to bleach their fabrics. On this episode of Journeys in Japan, Sheila Cliffe explores the textiles and clothing from Japan's "Snow Country."
In Hokkaido Prefecture, the sport of ski mountaineering has a long history. Making your way up into the mountains is possible when you have skis. Climbing through the deep snow requires skill, experience and thorough preparation. But the ascent is fun and heading down is even more so. In Japan, the first place where ski mountaineering began was the Academic Alpine Club of Hokkaido, which is part of Hokkaido University. The students here have been skiing for over 100 years. Cveto Podlogar is a licensed international mountain guide from Slovenia. On this episode of Journeys in Japan, Cveto heads out into the mountains with the Alpine Club for a training session, to get a taste of their ski mountaineering tradition.
Onomichi lies on the coast of Hiroshima Prefecture, overlooking the tranquil Seto Inland Sea. Because there is very little flat land in the town, many of residential areas are built on steep hillsides. The town also boasts beautiful views of the sea and the nearby islands. Drawn by Onomichi's mild climate and old-fashioned atmosphere, a growing number of younger people are moving there from other parts of Japan. The town also attracts many visitors, both from Japan and around the world. On this episode of Journeys in Japan, US actor Bruce Taylor explores the town's labyrinthine narrow streets, discovering an area that is known for its friendly cats and meeting local people who are helping to revitalize the area.
The Tobishima Kaido is a network of bridges linking seven Seto Inland Sea islands. The route starts in Shimo-kamagari near Kure in Hiroshima Prefecture and extends to Okamura in Ehime Prefecture. Osakishimo-jima's Mitarai district prospered as a port of call for Kitamaebune merchant ships, and retains the townscape from the Edo period. The island is also famous for its citrus farming, which dates back over 100 years. Britain Tom Miyagawa Coulton, who lives in Osakishimo-jima, takes us around the islands steeped in history.
British explorer and writer Isabella Bird arrived in Japan in 1878, a mere 10 years after the country opened its doors to the West. Accompanied by just one young man who served as both her interpreter and attendant, she traveled deep into the hinterland. Unbeaten Tracks in Japan is her highly praised travelogue of that journey. It is a valuable record written from the perspective of a devout Christian endowed with critical thinking, which smashed the fairytale image of Japan that had spread in Western countries. On this episode of Journeys in Japan, US writer Benjamin Boas traces Bird's footsteps, looking for vestiges of the Japan of 150 years ago. Starting from Kinugawa Onsen, he makes his way to the Aizu region and then to the town of Tsugawa, in Niigata Prefecture.
The Nagasaki Kaido Road connects the port of Nagasaki Prefecture, the only point open to overseas trade during Japan's period of isolation, with Kokura in Fukuoka Prefecture. It is known as the Sugar Road for the many confections inspired by mainland Asia and Europe that spread along it. Aliza Ahmed Khan, who is from Pakistan, explores this rich world.
The Ainu people are the indigenous people of Hokkaido Prefecture, Japan's northernmost main island. They developed their own distinct language, history and culture, which were quite different from Japanese, and also lived in northern Honshu, Sakhalin and the Kuril islands. The Ainu people hunted and foraged for edible wild plants, coexisting with the natural environment. They produced powerful, beautiful folk art and craftworks, and they practiced many seasonal rituals to give thanks for the blessings of nature. On this episode of Journeys in Japan, US filmmaker Martin visits Nibutani, an area in Hokkaido with a strong connection to the Ainu people, to discover how they have managed to maintain their culture, handicrafts and beliefs to this day.
Amami Oshima Islands, designated as a Natural World Heritage site in 2021, is home to rich biodiversity, including many endemic species. For instance, the Amami rabbit is a living remnant of ancient hares, found only on Amami Oshima and Tokunoshima islands. In this episode of Journeys in Japan, actor Michael Keida heads deep into the forest in search of the subtropical island's rare plant and wildlife. And he meets people who share their knowledge of the forests and sea.
Amami Oshima Islands in Kagoshima Prefecture receives one of the largest amounts of rain in Japan. Its rainy season, which runs from May through June, in particular, provides enough water to sustain its lush nature, including rare species of plants and animals, all year round. In this episode of Journeys in Japan, outdoor writer from Sweden Janni Olsson enjoys Amami's rainy season as she engages in activities not available elsewhere and learns about the island's culture.
The city of Owase, in Mie Prefecture, is known as one of the rainiest places in Japan and the people living there have developed their own culture and customs relating to this distinct climate. Stephen Carter comes from New Mexico, an area of southwest USA that is known for its desert climate. On this episode of Journeys in Japan, he visits Owase to experience firsthand how the city has coped with the intense precipitation. On a section of the ancient Kumano Kodo pilgrimage trail, he observes how it was laid out to withstand the torrential downpours. And in a small fishing village, he discovers how the rain and the mountains create fertile fishing grounds. He also takes a cruise along the coast to view a remarkable rock formation.
Deep in the mountains of Shikoku lies Iya, which is home to a few small settlements. The steep, narrow and misty valley is the stuff of lore. In the 12th century it was a haven for fugitive Heike clan warriors who easily slipped away in the rugged terrain. Over the years, the community has seen its population shrink and age. But a decade ago, Iya became a popular destination for overseas visitors. We visit Iya to find out why and search for hints for regional revitalization.
Tsuruga Castle in the city of Aizuwakamatsu (Fukushima Prefecture) played a decisive role in Japan's transition from the feudal samurai era to a modern society. This time on Journeys in Japan, architect James Lambiasi visits the castle and other remarkable sites, meeting local people for whom Aizu's history still remains alive in their hearts.
The Gujo Odori, one of Japan's largest Bon dances, is a spectacle with the scores of revelers, as well as the live festival music and clacking geta wooden clogs. For more than 400 years, it has been held for 30 nights from July to September in Gujo-Hachiman, a village located deep in the mountains of Gifu Prefecture. The main event is the all-night dance for four days starting on August 13. French actor Robin Barde explores the deep culture of the festival and dances the night away.
British explorer and writer Isabella Bird arrived in Japan in 1878, a mere 10 years after the country opened its doors to the West. Accompanied by just one young man who served as both interpreter and attendant, she traveled deep into the hinterland. Unbeaten Tracks in Japan is her highly praised travelogue of that journey. It is a valuable record written from the perspective of a devout Christian endowed with critical thinking, which smashed the fairytale image of Japan that had spread in Western countries. In this episode, actor Akino Roza traces Isabella's footsteps in search of vestiges of the past — and also to make new discoveries. Starting from the city of Niigata, she travels along the old Jusan-toge route to the Yamagata Basin.
Koyasan, in the mountains of Wakayama Prefecture, is a sacred site of Shingon Buddhism. It was founded by the visionary monk, Kukai, about 1,200 years ago. Pilgrims and tourists alike stay in shukubo temple lodgings, some of which even feature luxury rooms. Visitors enjoy shojin vegetarian cuisine, meditation sessions and walks through the forests, as well as a famous cemetery. On this journey, British photographer Alfie Goodrich explores the tangible, and intangible, treasures of mysterious Koyasan.
The Miyagawa River originates in the pristine heights of Mount Odaigahara, in the center of the Kii Peninsula, and flows down to Ise Bay. Because its lower reaches run past Ise Jingu (the Grand Shrine of Ise), the river is also often known as the "River of the Gods." The Miyagawa is also renowned for its water quality, which is among the clearest in the country. On this episode of Journeys in Japan, Peter Skov hikes through the spectacular Osugidani valley, before arriving at the source of this sacred waterway.
Chichibu in Saitama Prefecture is a charming, rustic spot not far from Tokyo. It is known for its hundreds of annual festivals. These include the Chichibu Night Festival, as well as one that features rockets. In the Yoshida Ryusei Festival, which takes place in October, locals handcraft rockets that are launched high in the air and release colorful decorations or firework clusters on the way down. We meet the people who are passing down this special tradition.
Soy sauce, or shoyu, is one of the essential seasonings that underpin Japanese cuisine. In Kyushu (southwestern Japan), various types of soy sauce have been developed to complement different dishes. From one region to the next, each sauce has its own tradition and use. This has led to the creation of numerous sauces across the region, including new kinds of shoyu featuring a range of ingredients.
Handa City, in Aichi Prefecture, is known for its brewing industry and festivals with towering floats. Jennifer Julien, a wine promoter based in Japan, delights in the city's sake and sushi, as well as its Handa Dashi Float Festival. It's a spectacle of thirty-one floats that come together once every five years.
Yakushima, off Kagoshima Prefecture in Kyushu, is a magical island of primeval forest, rare micro-climate and pristine nature. It is also the first place in Japan to be recognized as a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site. British plant-hunter, Ernest Henry Wilson, explored Yakushima in the early 20th century, researching and photographing its ancient Yakusugi trees. Photographer Alfie Goodrich travels to the island and becomes a conduit for the famous plant-hunter Wilson...
In January 2023, the New York Times newspaper introduced Morioka as one of its "52 Places to Go" - second only to London. The capital of Iwate Prefecture was highly praised for its historic architecture; its compactness, making it easy for people to get around on foot; and the abundance of nature, from the nearby mountains to the river that runs through the city center. On this episode of Journeys in Japan, Canadian actor Kyle Card visits this city which is little known abroad and often overlooked at home. He explores its independent stores and numerous coffee shops, and chats with the people who call it home.
In 2021, a long trail course was established that encircles Mt. Fuji. By following this trail, one can explore not only the natural beauty but also the profound allure of Mt. Fuji, which has been a source of local history, culture, ancient beliefs and artistic inspiration for centuries. Kyle Card, a Canadian actor who previously completed the Tohoku Trail, now journeys around Mt. Fuji during the breathtaking transition from autumn to winter.
In 2021, a long trail course was established that encircles Mt. Fuji. By following this trail, one can explore not only the natural beauty but also the profound allure of Mt. Fuji, which has been a source of local history, culture, ancient beliefs and artistic inspiration for centuries. Canadian actor Kyle Card continues his journey around Mt. Fuji during the breathtaking late autumn season, following the first part.
The Nagasaki Kaido was an important trade road from the 1630s that connected Nagasaki's port—the only one open to overseas trade in those days—to Kokura in Fukuoka Prefecture. Nicknamed the Sugar Road, the 220-kilometer path carried covetous sugar and their sweet recipes. Aliza Ahmed Khan from Pakistan discovers the distinctive confectionery culture that developed along the route.
Isumi in Chiba Prefecture was voted most desirable place to live in the Tokyo area for its accessibility and great outdoors with both the ocean and mountains. This time, Alex and Binderiya, a Tokyo-based couple, explore Isumi to see if this could be their next home sweet home.
In 1859, when Japan reopened its doors after more than two centuries of isolation, goods flowed in and out of newly expanded ports. At the time, raw silk became the country's largest export, as the silk industries in France and Italy had been hit by an epidemic of silkworm disease. At one point, Japan was the world's biggest exporter. On this episode of Journeys in Japan, Sheila Cliffe from the UK follows the Silk Road from northern Kanto, once a major production area, to Yokohama, where the silk took off to the world.
Geto Kogen lies in an area of Japan known as a gosetsu chitai—a region with extremely heavy snowfall. In an average year it gets as much as five meters of snow, and that means it can offer runs found in few other parts of the country. These days people come from around the world to find out what makes this resort special. They start their day with some fresh tracks, taking the gondola to the top ahead of the official opening time when the slopes are covered with pristine snow. They enjoy tree runs with deep powder snow through wooded areas that are usually off-limits at other ski resorts. And they head out for some backcountry skiing along with accredited guides. On this episode, Michael Keida and his wife Kumiko take full advantage of the JAPOW conditions at this gosetsu paradise.
The city of Senboku in Akita Prefecture is made up of three towns: Tazawako, which has the deepest lake in Japan; Nishiki, home to farming scenery: and Kakunodate, called the little Kyoto of Tohoku. In addition to the stunning nature and samurai culture, visitors can enjoy spectacles related to the Lunar New Year. Catrina Sugita experiences the area's winter lifestyle and its fiery festivals.
Tomonoura is a port town on the coast of the Seto Inland Sea, in Hiroshima Prefecture. It occupies an important location because this is the point where the tides from each end of the Inland Sea meet. In the old days, ships had to wait here until the ebb tide, before continuing their journeys. For that reason it became known as "the port for awaiting the tide" and was even mentioned in the Manyoshu, a collection of Japanese poems collated some 1,200 years ago. Tom Miyagawa Coulton is a photographer who lives on an island in the Seto Inland Sea. On this episode of Journeys in Japan, Tom explores the historic town of Tomonoura and discovers the town's centuries-old tradition of forging steel. He also meets the local people who have protected this town and kept their community ties with love and care.
Across Okinawa's islands, you will find the stone walls of castle ruins. The Ryukyu Kingdom was a country for 350 years before it was absorbed into Japan. From the 12th to 15th centuries, it erected many gusuku or castles to protect the land and also to provide a place of worship. Alfie Goodrich sets out to discover the beauty and mystery of Okinawa's old kingdom through its gusuku.
People in Japan love bathing in hot springs, or onsen. And since the old days, it has been common for people to check into residential hot-spring inns for extended stays to boost their health, heal their aches and regain their well-being. This style of onsen therapeutics is known as Tōji. On this episode of Journeys in Japan, Kyle Card travels to Taketa City in Oita Prefecture to discover a contemporary style of Tōji therapy where visitors can recover their energy while enjoying the majestic natural environment along with some of the world's finest carbonated hot springs.
British explorer and writer Isabella Bird arrived in Japan in 1878, just 10 years after the country opened its doors to the West. Accompanied by a young man who served as both interpreter and attendant, she traveled deep into the hinterland. Unbeaten Tracks in Japan is her highly praised travelogue of that journey. In this episode, Maria Brandmann follows Bird's route along the Ushu Kaido highway from Kaneyama-machi (Yamagata Prefecture) to Gojome-machi (Akita Prefecture).
Okayama Prefecture is a magical place where ancient myths live on. Shinto shrines venerate unique gods and Buddhist temples feature rare rituals. Kanoa, from Hawaii, explores the eastern side of the prefecture to discover how gods, demons and Buddha are rooted in daily life.
Ogaki in Gifu Prefecture is called "the city of water." Its abundant groundwater has fed countless spring water wells, and a river running through the city center makes for relaxing scenery. On this episode of Journeys in Japan, DJ George Cockle from the US dips into Ogaki's water scene. He also encounters local specialties and the wisdom of locals that evolved from the water culture. George, a beach person who enjoys surfing, discovers the appeal of water in this landlocked city.
Yamagata Prefecture, some 300 kilometers north of Tokyo, is a mountainous region. Around 70% of its land covered by forests and to this day it boasts a long tradition of using that wood in its buildings. On this episode of Journeys in Japan, American architect James Lambiasi visits a hot spring resort where the main street is lined with hotels built from timber; an ancient Buddhist temple where you can find wooden buildings standing on top of sheer cliffs; and a splendid row of wooden warehouses constructed 130 years ago and still in pristine condition. James also observes a construction company that has developed cutting-edge technology for using timber in large-scale contemporary architecture. He is given a hands-on demonstration of how the forests are maintained, and he meets an outdoors guide who shows the way he lives in the backwoods.
Shodoshima, the second largest island in the Seto Inland Sea, is known for its beautiful landscapes, natural scenery and traditional life. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of deep gorges and far-off islands out at sea. In the center of the island, you can explore terraced rice fields with a 700-year history. You can also find old-style soy sauce breweries that keep alive centuries-old production methods. On this episode of Journeys in Japan, Greek photographer Androniki Christodoulou explores Shodoshima Island and meets the people who are preserving their island traditions.
Japan's legendary Ama free-diving women still plumb the waters around Sugashima Island in search of abalone, turban shell and Ise spiny lobster. We glimpse the island through this extraordinary tradition, as well as through the guided tours held by elementary school kids.
Niseko is renowned as one of Japan's leading winter sports destinations. But these days it's also becoming famous as an exciting summertime resort. Visitors can experience a wide variety of outdoor activities, ranging from mountain biking and whitewater rafting to hiking, horseback riding and onsen hot springs. On this episode of Journeys in Japan, we follow video creator Steven Lefever as he explores Niseko's abundant natural environment and discovers how it has developed in harmony with nature to become a magnet for enthusiasts from around the world.
The Kumano Kodo, leading to Kumano, the sacred land of the Gods, is one of the few pilgrimage roads designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Twenty years after the designation, we explore the pilgrimage trail by fast hiking, which combines the best of hiking and running.
Obon is a summertime ritual when Japanese people welcome ancestors' spirits home from the Buddhist Pure Land. The people of Nagasaki have a distinctive way to commemorate this. They light fireworks and firecrackers at family graves and parade boats ferrying the spirits of the deceased through the streets and then back to the Buddhist Paradise. This episode takes a deep dive into Nagasaki's unique style of Obon.
British explorer and writer Isabella Bird arrived in Japan in 1878, just 10 years after the country opened its doors to the West. Accompanied by a young man who served as both interpreter and attendant, she traveled deep into the hinterland. Unbeaten Tracks in Japan is her highly praised travelogue of that journey. In this episode, vocalist Chiara Terzuolo traces Bird's route from the Hiyama district of Noshiro City, Akita Prefecture. She then passes through Odate City and continues until she reaches Kuroishi City in Aomori Prefecture.
Osaka is a dynamic city with a dynamic history. Photographer Alfie Goodrich captures the food culture of the "Kitchen of Japan," the waterways that made it a commercial center, and the architecture reflecting the era when it surpassed Tokyo economically. He meets the spirited and sometimes flamboyant residents. The journey fittingly starts at the Osaka Castle, which was founded by warlord Toyotomi Hideyoshi who was known for his flamboyant sensibility.
Tokushima Prefecture, in the eastern part of Shikoku Island, is renowned as a heartland of traditional fermentation. It is especially famous for its indigo dyeing tradition which brought prosperity to the region in premodern times. At the same time, specialist crafts were developed, such as Otani ware, a style of pottery that is known for its huge vats used for indigo dyeing. In this episode, Kanoa explores this distinctive fermentation culture and travels into the mountains to discover a unique kind of fermented tea called Awa-bancha.
The Kunisaki Peninsula, known for its temples, shrines and pilgrimage paths, abounds with rites enduring from ancient times. The Kebesu Festival, held every October, is one of them. Writer David Conklin explores this scintillating fire ritual and other unique religious traditions. He also savors the area's delicacies, lifestyle and stunning nature.
North of Kobe's neon lights you can enjoy another side of the city—a hidden village with over 650 thatched homes. It's another world that takes you back in time. American actor Charles Glover delights in the rich nature, the architecture, the charming people, the delicacies and even a rural kabuki performance.
Japan is a land of volcanoes, many of them very active. And anywhere there are volcanoes, you will almost always find hot springs. On this episode, Michael Keida treks down a trail leading north-south through the volcanic Azuma and Adatara ranges in Fukushima Prefecture. He finds torrents of hot water gushing out of the rocks and discovers a world of breathtaking views.
Called "tears of mermaids" or "dewdrops from the moon," pearls have captivated people since antiquity. The world's first cultured pearls were born in Ise-Shima in Mie Prefecture. On this episode of Journeys in Japan, Do Minh Khai from Vietnam explores the Ise-Shima area, the home of magical pearls. She learns how the first cultured pearls were developed, experiences pearl harvesting, and encounters a new type of pearl jewelry created by a young designer.
