Episode 1 - Nishijin-ori

Episode 2 - Kyoto Lacquerware

Episode 3 - Sake

Episode 4 - Katsura Rikyu

Episode 5 - Bonsai

Episode 6 - The Four Seasons

Episode 7 - Hina Dolls

Episode 8 - Nagasaki

Episode 9 - Five-Storey Pagodas

Episode 10 - Cherry Blossoms

Episode 11 - Chopsticks

Episode 12 - Aizome

Episode 13 - Bunraku

Episode 14 - Kiriko Cut Glass

Episode 15 - Traditional Folk Houses

Episode 16 - Tea Ceremony

Episode 17 - Soba

Episode 18 - Origami

Episode 19 - Imari Porcelain

Episode 20 - Folding Fan

Episode 21 - Kaiseki Cuisine

Episode 22 - The Sounds of Japan

Episode 23 - Masks

Episode 24 - Satoyama

Episode 25 - Kendo

Episode 26 - The Fragrances of Japan

Episode 27 - Spinning Tops

Episode 28 - Rock and Stone

Episode 29 - Ink Brushes

Since ancient times, people in Japan have devoted themselves to the traditional art of calligraphy, shodo. Writing characters with ink on paper, they create works that express the inherent beauty of the Japanese written language. In shodo, brushes are used for applying the ink to the paper. The expressiveness of the characters derives from variations in the speed and force that the calligrapher uses to move the brush. The brushes themselves are simple objects, made from bundles of animal hair or other materials bundled together and fixed to a shaft. The actual materials used will depend on the style of calligraphy that is desired. On this edition of BEGIN Japanology, we examine the history, development and contemporary applications of ink brushes, introducing these simple implements that have been so essential to the development of Japanese writing and painting.

Episode 30 - Tsukemono

Episode 31 - Dogs

Episode 32 - Ramen

Episode 33 - Rice

Episode 34 - Shinto Shrine

Episode 35 - Festivals

In Japan, festivals are known as matsuri. Many matsuri are colorful and boisterous occasions. Matsuri are typically associated with a Shinto shrine. Local people gather to pray and give thanks to the enshrined deity for agricultural bounty, health, safety and security. Over the years, these gatherings have evolved into elaborate events that frequently feature dancing, masks and magnificent floats. Entire local communities may be drawn into the preparations for festivals, which have nurtured some of the most refined arts and crafts in Japan. Even the sophisticated Noh theatre has festival origins, and, in some communities, apprentices will spend years learning a craft such as woodcarving specifically for its application in an annual matsuri. On this edition of BEGIN Japanology, we present some of the most famous festivals in Japan and consider the links to community and culture.

Episode 36 - Shinkansen

Episode 37 - Gagaku

Episode 38 - Marriage

Episode 39 - Shogi

Episode 40 - Nabe Cuisine

Episode 41 - Sword