#501 “Gliding Hokkaido's Powder”
Japow refers to Japan's world-famous powder, where skiers delight in making tracks in heavenly virgin snow. An ideal place to ski is central Hokkaido Prefecture, on Mount Asahidake and Mount Sandanyama in the Daisetsuzan mountain range. Slovenian Cveto Podlogar, an international mountain guide, rides the powder with local professional skier Ken Fujikawa. They glide through Japow knee-deep, sending powder flying in the air.
#502 “Minami-Uonuma: Weaving New Snow Country Tales”
Minami-Uonuma in southern Niigata Prefecture is one of Japan's snowiest regions. Suzuki Bokushi's book 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.
#503 “Makabe: A Promise of Spring”
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. At the Hina-matsuri (Hina Doll Festival), held annually in Makabe from the beginning of February to early March, the old stores and some homes share elaborate doll displays with visitors.
#504 “Oku-Echizen: Abundance and Tranquility”
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 today the town retains the same street plan and many of its traditional buildings. 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. 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.
#505 “Oya, Utsunomiya: Stone Town & Quarry Ruins Tour”
On this episode 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.
#506 “Road Tripping around Miyazaki”
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.
#507 “Tateyama: Wondrous Underwater Encounters”
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. This episode of Journeys in Japan explores Tateyama's wondrous underwater world.
#508 “Iga: Keeping the Ninja Tradition Alive”
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.
#509 “Hieizan: Mother Mountain of Eternal Prayer”
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.
#510 “Ashikaga and Tochigi: Cultivating Nature and Tradition”
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 wisteria blossom. On this episode 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.
#511 “Uchiko: Epic Kite Battle”
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.
512 “Yamaguchi: Landscapes and Their Stories”
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.
513 “Nishi-Izu, Hidden Gem”
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.
514 “Shizuoka: Wonderland of Green Tea”
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.
515 “Atami: The Spa Revival”
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 1990's 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.
#516 “Nikko: Contemplating its Architectural Jewels”
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 episode 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.
#517 “Tsugaru: Amateur Sumo, Indomitable Tradition”
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. 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.
#518 “Hachimantai: Timeless Landscape, Healing Water”
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 of Journeys in Japan, Shizuka Anderson from Canada discovers the beauty of the unspoiled natural environment on Mt. Hachimantai, and then experiences firsthand this special form of hot-spring relaxation, which heals both body and soul.
#519 “Tonami: The Winds of Change”
On this episode Charles Glover, an actor from the United States, visits the Tonami Plain in Toyama Prefecture, known for its vast farmlands and 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.
#520 “Mt. Hakusan: Sacred Peak of Natural Beauty”
Rising above the highlands of central Japan, Mt. Hakusan (2,702 meters) is considered one 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.
#521 “Sawara: Festival Floats Keeping Ties Alive”
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.
#522 “Tobishima: Living Life on Island Time”
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.
#523 “Steel City Muroran and Its Hidden Charms”
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.
#524 “Kita-Akita: Deep Connections with Nature”
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. Michael Keida visits 2 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 episode of Journeys in Japan, Michael meets the people of Kita-Akita, and joins them in celebrating their close connection with the natural environment.
#525 “Izumo: The Heart of the Japanese Spirit”
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.
#526 “Iwate: Blazing a Trail to the Future”
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.
#527 “Rausu: Coexistence with Nature's Bounty”
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.
#528 “Kagawa: Stepping into the Past”
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.
#529 Replaced by “Kagawa: Stepping into the Past”
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.
#530 Replaced by “Rausu: Coexistence with Nature's Bounty”
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.
#531 Replaced by “Kagawa: Stepping into the Past”
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.
#532 “Yamanashi: Escaping the Heat by the Katsura River”
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.
#533 “Kishiwada Danjiri Festival: Thrills and Local Pride”
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.
#534 “New Wind Blowing in Iwamizawa”
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.
#535 “Ise: Pilgrimage to the Heart of Japan”
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.
#536 “Nanyo: From Wheels to Wings”
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.
#537 “Osaka: The Architecture of a Vibrant Metropolis”
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 episide of Journeys in Japan, American architect James Lambiasi visits Osaka and explores its history and culture, as reflected in its impressive architecture.
#538 “Kanazawa: A Legacy of Color”
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 episode of Journeys in Japan, TV personality Leina Bambino explores Kanazawa's deep culture through its colors.
#539 “Climbing Fun on Sacred Mt. Myogi”
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.
#540 “Traces of History: Exploring around Hiroshima” *RERUN
Hiroshima is home to 2 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.
#541 “Oita: Rest and Recuperation, Onsen Style”
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 episode 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.
#542 “Asago: Hidden Gem of Heritage and History”
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.
#543 “Chugei, Kochi: Exploring the Yuzu Road” *RERUN
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 episode 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.
#544 “Suo-Oshima: Finding Hawaii in the Inland Sea”
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.
#545 “Unlocking the Mysteries of Ancient Asuka”
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.
#546 “Iheya: Peaceful Winter Getaway” *RERUN
Iheya is the northernmost island of Okinawa Prefecture and takes 1 hour and 20 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.
#547 “Tottori: Crab Lover’s Paradise”
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.
#548 “Yokohama: A Port Town with It All”
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.
#549 “Nagahama: Heading North Along Lake Biwa”
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 episode of Journeys in Japan, Charles Glover follows an ancient highway, to discover an area of almost timeless calm.
#550 “Mishima, Fukushima: Keeping Alive the Folk Craft Tradition”
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.
#551 “Tsugaru: Deep Snow, Warm Hearts”
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.
#552 “The Magic of Winter in Akita”
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.
#553 “Hateruma: Life on a Distant Island” *Rerun
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.