Japanology Plus 10
2023-01-12 | Documentary | 23 episodes12 Seasons
Episode
Kitchens (2023)
In centuries past, cooking in a Japanese kitchen involved moving between a dirt floor and a raised area with wooden floorboards. Modern kitchens, meanwhile, incorporate all sorts of convenient, space-saving measures. Our guest, associate professor Suzaki Fumiyo, tells the story of that evolution, and explains why some Japanese are choosing to go back to a traditional dirt-floor kitchen. And in Plus One, Matt Alt learns about some traditional kitchen utensils.
Satsumaimo: Sweet Potatoes (2023)
Sweet potatoes are widely grown and enjoyed in Japan. They're baked, fried, served in stews and used to make desserts. Throughout history, they have offered a solution to food shortages. And nowadays, they can even help to keep a building cool in summer. Our guest, researcher Hashimoto Ayuki, introduces us to new ways of enjoying this versatile vegetable. And in Plus One, we see some innovative takes on mobile baked potato sales.
Dinosaurs (2023)
Japan, once thought to have no dinosaur fossils, is now a hotspot for dinosaur discovery. Kamuysaurus japonicus, found in Hokkaido Prefecture, overturned conventional wisdom. Dozens of Japanese museums feature dinosaurs, and dinosaur-themed events are popular with people of all ages. Our guest, dinosaur expert Kobayashi Yoshitsugu, shares the latest information, and offers his view on why the Japanese find dinosaurs so captivating. In Plus One, we see some entertaining modern takes on dinosaurs.
Japanophiles: Kyle Holzhueter (2023)
In the mountains of Okayama Prefecture, Kamimomi is a community whose features include beautiful terraced rice fields. But with fewer than 90 residents, it is at risk of disappearing. Here, Kyle Holzhueter from the USA engages in a form of natural construction that employs Japanese plastering techniques. One aim in all he does is a sustainable lifestyle, aligned with the power of nature. Peter Barakan learns about Holzhueter's way of life and the rich potential of Japan's rural communities.
Camping (2023)
In Japan, interest in camping is booming. Popular choices these days include women-only camping and solo camping. Some prefer glamping, where you don't have to set up your own tent. Camping has also been drawing attention as a good way to prepare for disaster. Peter Barakan visits a campsite with an outdoor expert to get the latest information, and to find out more about why so many people are going camping these days. We also see some Japanese preferences in equipment.
