Japanology Plus 3
2016-01-07 | Documentary | 83 episodes12 Seasons
Episode
Japanophiles: Maud Archambault (2016)
This time, we present an installment of our special Japanophiles series, which features lively interviews with foreigners living in Japan. Minyo is Japanese folk music, passed down from generation to generation all over Japan. A Canadian named Maud Archambault became enthralled with the world of minyo 13 years ago - and now she is a professional minyo dancer. She can also sing and play the taiko drums and shamisen. We'll see how she has devoted herself to this uniquely Japanese music.
Silk (2016)
What gives Japanese kimonos their luxurious appeal? Pure silk, a natural fiber made from the cocoons of the silkworm. Strong and elastic, silk is used to make strings for the shamisen, as a canvas for Japanese paintings, and these days it is being applied in medicine. With our expert guest, Takayuki Nagashima, who knows a great deal about silk and silkworms, we explore the importance of silk to Japan's culture and way of life. And in Plus One, the wonders of wild silk.
Underground Tokyo (2016)
Hidden beneath Tokyo are underground spaces of many kinds: intricate webs of subways and roads, tunnels carrying utilities, and even shopping malls. This time on Japanology Plus, our topic is "Underground Tokyo". We'll explore the subterranean spaces that keep this mega-city functioning. Our expert guest is Taro Kasuya, who served for many years as an engineer for underground infrastructure in Greater Tokyo. And in Plus One, some amazingly efficient underground storage spaces.
Earthquake Preparedness (2016)
From volcanic eruptions to torrential rain, Japan is one of the world's most disaster-prone countries. Earthquakes, too, are common. To ensure people are ready to look after themselves and their communities, Japan spends more time and energy on being prepared for earthquakes than any other country. Our expert guest this time is Minoru Watanabe, a journalist who covers disaster preparedness and risk management. And in Plus One, how to put together an emergency bag.
Japanophiles: Jorge Cabeza Fernandez (2016)
This time, we present an installment of our special Japanophiles series, which features lively interviews with foreigners living in Japan. With economies in Asia growing, air travel in the region is booming, and Japanese airlines are playing up Japan's unique hospitality. Jorge Cabeza Fernandez is a Spaniard who works at one of Japan's biggest airlines. He's currently an instructor at the airline's training center, teaching cabin attendants the art of Japanese service...with a global twist.
