Japan Video Topics 2008/08
Tokyo's Subtropical Islands
Although the Ogasawara islands lie 1,000 km south of Tokyo, they are officially part of the metropolis because the only way to get there is a 25.5 hr ferry trip from Tokyo. Geographically isolated from the mainland since their creation, the islands are known as the Galapagos of the East for their rich variety of unique plants and animals. Many visitors make the long trip to Ogasawara not just for its fine whale and dolphin watching, but also to enjoy the islands' warm and welcoming culture.
Toys for all Ages
The Tokyo Toy Show is Japan's largest and most diverse toy fair, and the huge crowds that attend this 4-day event include many overseas buyers, here to check the latest trends and innovations by Japan's toy manufacturers. It's not just advanced technology that has made Japan a leading influence on worldwide trends in toys and games. New concepts developed here, such as games that involve parents with their children as they learn useful skills, are finding an enthusiastic reception abroad.
Japanese Cuisine-Sincerity is the Key
A look behind the scenes at a good Japanese restaurant gives us a glimpse into the working day of its itamae, or chefs, and the central organizing role played by the proprietress, the okami. These chefs not only spend years becoming highly skilled at creating dishes that look like works of art, they daily visit fish piers and markets learning to select the finest materials. This okami minutely manages her kitchen, as well as providing hospitality for her guests. But in the end, it is the sincere and wholehearted devotion to their craft of all involved that is the key to Japan's quality cuisine.
Building to Blend with Nature
Kengo Kuma is now a world-famed architect, with a company active in projects around the globe. We see how his style evolved into a current philosophy that focuses on using softer, gentler building materials designed to make his creations merge seamlessly with their surroundings and blend into the local environment. Kuma has taken the use of soft, natural materials such as wood, paper and earth to such an extent that with some of his recent designs it is becoming difficult to tell where the building ends and the scenery beings.
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