Begin JapanologySeason 12008 · 33 episodesEpisodes1BentoAbout the origins and evolution of the Japanese "boxed lunchset".2Miyazawa Kenji3Lacquerware4Rakugo5Tsukiji MarketA short look on the history, present and future of the famous fishmarket in Tsukiji, Tokyo.6YoshokuExplaining the integration of Western meals into the Japanese diet.7KyudoKyodo (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.8Tea Ceremony Architecture9Dagashi-yaA look at the phenomenon of dagashi-ya ("thrifty sweetshops") and the role they played in a community and it's growing resurgence in modern society10Nihon Buyo11AbacusThe "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.12Ryukyu Kimono13BambooBamboo, a native Japanese plant of the tree family, has many uses. This episode explores a few, such as tools, decoration and even as food.14Shirakawa-go15FireworksDuring the Japanese summer, fireworks are a daily phenomenon, as such, this episode shows it's origin, production and techniques.16Hanging ScrollsThe 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.17The Tale of Genji: Part 1The 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.18The Tale of Genji: Part 2Part two continues with a look on the Heian period and the effect the epic had on Japanese cultural history.19MatchaMatcha, 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.20Tokyo TowerA key player in the skyline of Tokyo, Tokyo Tower is a source of entertainment and inspiration. A look on it's construction and influence.21Dashi22Oribe-yaki (pottery)23The Colorful World of Utagawa Hiroshige24The Seven Gods of Good Fortune25SushiThis episodes investigates the staple Japanese food, "Sushi" via it's origins and ingredients.26Mikoshi (portable shrines)27Yuzen Kimono28Buddhist Statues29Hot Springs30Fish31Tatami (straw mats)32CastlesDuring Japan's civil war era, many castles were erected as strongholds and displays of power by the local warlords.33MisoSeason 2Season 3Season 4Season 5Season 6Season 7
