Begin Japanology

Episode 2

Miyazawa Kenji

Episode 3

Lacquerware

Episode 4

Rakugo

Episode 5

Tsukiji Market

A short look on the history, present and future of the famous fishmarket in Tsukiji, Tokyo.

Episode 6

Yoshoku

Explaining the integration of Western meals into the Japanese diet.

Episode 7

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.

Episode 8

Tea Ceremony Architecture

Episode 9

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

Episode 10

Nihon Buyo

Episode 11

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.

Episode 12

Ryukyu Kimono

Episode 13

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.

Episode 14

Shirakawa-go

Episode 15

Fireworks

During the Japanese summer, fireworks are a daily phenomenon, as such, this episode shows it's origin, production and techniques.

Episode 16

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.

Episode 17

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.

Episode 18

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.

Episode 19

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.

Episode 20

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.

Episode 21

Dashi

Episode 22

Oribe-yaki (pottery)

Episode 23

The Colorful World of Utagawa Hiroshige

Episode 24

The Seven Gods of Good Fortune

Episode 25

Sushi

This episodes investigates the staple Japanese food, "Sushi" via it's origins and ingredients.

Episode 26

Mikoshi (portable shrines)

Episode 27

Yuzen Kimono

Episode 28

Buddhist Statues

Episode 29

Hot Springs

Episode 30

Fish

Episode 31

Tatami (straw mats)

Episode 32

Castles

During Japan's civil war era, many castles were erected as strongholds and displays of power by the local warlords.

Episode 33

Miso