BEGIN Japanology invites you into the world of Japanese culture, both traditional and modern, explaining how traditions evolved and the part they still play today in people's everyday lives.
Bento
Apr 14, 2008
About the origins and evolution of the Japanese "boxed lunchset".
Miyazawa Kenji
Apr 21, 2008
No description available.
Lacquerware
Apr 28, 2008
No description available.
Rakugo
May 5, 2008
No description available.
Tsukiji Market
May 12, 2008
A short look on the history, present and future of the famous fishmarket in Tsukiji, Tokyo.
Yoshoku
May 19, 2008
Explaining the integration of Western meals into the Japanese diet.
Kyudo
May 26, 2008
Kyodo (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.
Tea Ceremony Architecture
Jun 2, 2008
No description available.
Dagashi-ya
Jun 9, 2008
A look at the phenomenon of dagashi-ya ("thrifty sweetshops") and the role they played in a community and it's growing resurgence in modern society
Nihon Buyo
Jun 16, 2008
No description available.
Abacus
Jun 23, 2008
The "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.
Ryukyu Kimono
Jun 30, 2008
No description available.
Bamboo
Jul 14, 2008
Bamboo, a native Japanese plant of the tree family, has many uses. This episode explores a few, such as tools, decoration and even as food.
Shirakawa-go
Jul 21, 2008
No description available.
Fireworks
Jul 28, 2008
During the Japanese summer, fireworks are a daily phenomenon, as such, this episode shows it's origin, production and techniques.
Hanging Scrolls
Aug 17, 2008
The 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.
The Tale of Genji: Part 1
Aug 24, 2008
The 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.
The Tale of Genji: Part 2
Aug 31, 2008
Part two continues with a look on the Heian period and the effect the epic had on Japanese cultural history.
Matcha
Sep 7, 2008
Matcha, 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.
Tokyo Tower
Sep 14, 2008
A key player in the skyline of Tokyo, Tokyo Tower is a source of entertainment and inspiration. A look on it's construction and influence.
Dashi
Sep 21, 2008
No description available.
Oribe-yaki (pottery)
Sep 28, 2008
No description available.
The Colorful World of Utagawa Hiroshige
Oct 5, 2008
No description available.
The Seven Gods of Good Fortune
Oct 12, 2008
No description available.
Sushi
Oct 19, 2008
This episodes investigates the staple Japanese food, "Sushi" via it's origins and ingredients.
Mikoshi (portable shrines)
Oct 26, 2008
No description available.
Yuzen Kimono
Nov 2, 2008
No description available.
Buddhist Statues
Nov 9, 2008
No description available.
Hot Springs
Nov 16, 2008
No description available.
Fish
Nov 23, 2008
No description available.
Tatami (straw mats)
Dec 1, 2008
No description available.
Castles
Dec 8, 2008
During Japan's civil war era, many castles were erected as strongholds and displays of power by the local warlords.
Miso
Dec 15, 2008
No description available.
