Japan Video Topics 2016/17
Tokyo Makeup: Beautification-in-Station (4’00”)
Shops offering convenience to busy, working women have opened inside Tokyo Station, the biggest station in Japan. They’re located beyond the turnstiles and inside the actual station, with products from various major cosmetic brands of Japan lining the shelves. There are gold-leaf skincare products made from traditional Japanese ingredients and those containing natural ingredients used from long ago, such as sake lees and kelp. A service in which a concierge helps select products best suited to the customer is also popular. As it’s possible to casually stop by on the way to and back from work, shops inside the station have become indispensable for women who want stay beautiful amid their busy lives. We introduce some of the growing number of establishments beautifying Japan from within the station.
The Capsule Hotel: More Than Just a Bed (3’39”)
More than 30 years have passed since the first capsule hotel was opened in Japan. In the past, men were the primary customers, but in recent years, women-only capsule hotels have sprouted up, offering a safe, comfortable, and convenient place to sleep. There are various features such as a wide range of amenities, large communal baths and dining bars no different from those found at conventional hotels. Entertainment-type capsule hotels, where guests can have fun and that are designed around themes including ninja and anime, are also popular among overseas tourists. We introduce the capsule hotels of Japan as they evolve to provide greater convenience, comfort and entertainment.
Aso: 1,000 Years with the Grassland (4’07”)
The Aso region of Kumamoto Prefecture is home to the biggest grassland by area in Japan. By letting cows out to graze and the burning of old grass, local people have maintained the grassland for 1,000 years. But, because of factors such as the declining number of farmers, the size of the grassland has shrunk by half. Through the activities of a local restaurant chef who has resolved to protect the agriculture of Aso, we discover the passion of people who continue to safeguard Aso’s traditional farming methods, food culture and grassland.
The Vending Machine: High-Tech on the Sidewal (3’33”)
“Vending machines” are seen throughout cities and towns in Japan. They offer an extensive selection of products from beverages to sandwiches, fruits and snacks. Electronic money and smartphones can be used to make purchases, and some models can also be hand-cranked to dispense items in the event of emergencies such as natural disasters. New functions continue to be added, and attracting attention now is a “next-generation vending machine” that communicates with people. It can determine the age group and sex of the customer and recommend products, provide weather forecasts and introduce tourist spots. We report on the latest trends of Japan’s surprising vending machines.
|
