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Nambu-tekki Cast Ironware (3'51")
Morioka is located near rich deposits of iron ore, and has been famous for its specialist ironware industry since the mid 17th century. The city became known for nambu-tekki – a style of cast iron kettles and tea pots that combine delicate beauty and robust solidity. The good looks and practicality of this ironware method led to its adoption for a range of practical cooking utensils, and the modern version of this old craft method is also widely popular for ornamentation and interior design.

Winter Train to Tsugaru (4'40")
The Tsugaru region in the far north of Japan's main island is a remote area with its own unique culture and history, including the Tsugaru-jamisen, a type of shamisen played in a vigorously distinctive style. Tsugaru's winters are icy cold but also extremely beautiful, and a fine way to travel through this snow-covered landscape is by the special winter season train run by the Tsugaru Railway. Antique carriages featuring old-fashioned pot-belly stoves will carry you snugly on a route that links Tsugaru's major sights.

Jomon Art - Ancient yet Modern (4'05")
Some of the oldest pottery vessels in the world have been found in Japan, dating to what is called the Jomon Period, from around 16,500 to 3,000 years ago. "Jomon" means straw rope pattern – the method used to decorate these pots. As they turned from a nomadic to a semi-sedentary life, the Jomon people began producing increasingly sophisticated pottery, including human and animal figures. Jomon art has a striking and timeless beauty that continues to inspire modern Japanese artists.

Kendo - A Sport for Mind and Body (3'37")
The popular sport of Kendo originated in sword training methods developed about 300 years ago. The samurai invented ways to safely hone their sword skills by sparring with special bamboo sticks. In today's sport, competitors wearing protective clothing try to strike specified areas of their opponent's head and body to score points. Kendo's rigorous, training of physical techniques and the calm quickness of mind needed for combat remain an excellent way to develop a strong spirit in a strong mind.