Japan Video Topics 2016/17
Taxi: Wheeling for the World’s Best Hospitality (4’21”)
The taxis of Japan are highly regarded for their safe and reliable technologies and courteous services. In recent years, taxis have been evolving to better meet the needs of customers, such as guiding foreign tourists in various languages and providing features to allow people with physical difficulties to ride comfortably. Through the experiences of a new female employee who dived into a field of mostly men, we introduce the taxis of Japan in their drive to provide the best service in the world through their spirit of hospitality.
Shimi Culture: Preserving Food and Tradition (3’22”)
In areas of Japan such as the northeastern region where winters are bitterly cold, what’s called a Shimi Culture of freezing farm produce to make preserved foods has been passed down through the generations. “Shimi” literally means to become frozen. Following the Great East Japan Earthquake in 2011, the production of “shimi daikon (frozen radish)” was on the verge of disappearing. So, a group of high school students stepped in. We learn how young people are helping to carry this traditional Japanese food into the future.
Plastic Models: An Ever-Evolving Small World (4’33”)
“Plastic models” are miniatures made by assembling various parts. In Japan, models of vehicles such as ships and planes are sold, in addition to those themed around Japanese culture such as castles and traditional armor. Plastic model-making is enjoyed as a hobby by a wide range of people from young to old. Among them is a plastic model of “Gundam”, a robot that appears in a television anime. Intricately crafted with even movable finger joints, it realizes an easy-to-assemble design. The ever-evolving models have remained popular for more than 30 years. We venture into the small world of inspiration and fun brought to life by Japan’s plastic models and the sophisticated manufacturing technologies behind them.
Obakeyashiki: Ghost Houses of Frightful Fun (3’52”)
“Obakeyashiki” are a type of entertainment facility that most Japanese are familiar with. In around the 19th century, ghost stories became popular in entertainment enjoyed by commoners and since then, they’ve developed into a summer tradition in various regions. Walking in the pitch dark, various setups designed to trigger screams of fright await. So, why do people want to experience “fear”? We unravel the secrets behind Japanese entertainment embodied by obakeyashiki.
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