Begin Japanology – Season 1
Episodes
Bento
About the origins and evolution of the Japanese "boxed lunchset".
Miyazawa Kenji
Lacquerware
Rakugo
Tsukiji Market
A short look on the history, present and future of the famous fishmarket in Tsukiji, Tokyo.
Yoshoku
Explaining the integration of Western meals into the Japanese diet.
Kyudo
Kyodo (loosely translatable to "archery") is not so much about hitting the target as it is all about the form, skill and practice of the art.
Tea Ceremony Architecture
Dagashi-ya
A look at the phenomenon of dagashi-ya ("thrifty sweetshops") and the role they played in a community and it's growing resurgence in modern society
Nihon Buyo
Abacus
The "soroban" (Abacus) - a calculation tool no longer used in the Western world but still a common sight in Japan, where education and businesses use it with great succes.
Ryukyu Kimono
Bamboo
Bamboo, a native Japanese plant of the tree family, has many uses. This episode explores a few, such as tools, decoration and even as food.
Shirakawa-go
Fireworks
During the Japanese summer, fireworks are a daily phenomenon, as such, this episode shows it's origin, production and techniques.
Hanging Scrolls
The wall scroll is not just used for decoration, it has a special role during the tea ceremony that is still practiced in Japan. From the special placement in a room to the padding of the scroll itself, everything must considered.
The Tale of Genji: Part 1
The first part of two episodes focussing on the ancient Japanese epic that left a huge impact on the cultural history of Japan, "The tale of Genji", written in the Heian period. This part details the author, characters and plot.
The Tale of Genji: Part 2
Part two continues with a look on the Heian period and the effect the epic had on Japanese cultural history.
Matcha
Matcha, the powdered residue of ground green tea leafs, has been a key ingredient in the Japanese tea ceremony for more than a millenium, but nowadays it's also being used in more than just tea.
Tokyo Tower
A key player in the skyline of Tokyo, Tokyo Tower is a source of entertainment and inspiration. A look on it's construction and influence.
Dashi
Oribe-yaki (pottery)
The Colorful World of Utagawa Hiroshige
The Seven Gods of Good Fortune
Sushi
This episodes investigates the staple Japanese food, "Sushi" via it's origins and ingredients.
Mikoshi (portable shrines)
Yuzen Kimono
Buddhist Statues
Hot Springs
Fish
Tatami (straw mats)
Castles
During Japan's civil war era, many castles were erected as strongholds and displays of power by the local warlords.