Journeys in Japan 11

Asago: Hidden Gem of Heritage and History (2020)

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.

Suo-Oshima: Finding Hawaii in the Inland Sea (2020)

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.

Unlocking the Mysteries of Ancient Asuka (2020)

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: A Port Town with It All (2020)

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, Fukushima: Keeping Alive the Folk Craft Tradition (2020)

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.