Watch The Signs (2020) Online!
We analyze the social changes brought by COVID-19, looking for signs that point towards the right philosophy to adopt in this era of the "New Normal."
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Episode 1 - New Challenges for Sushi Artisans
Release Date: 2023-01-06Nigiri-zushi, or "hand-pressed" sushi is a quintessential part of Japanese culinary culture. It entails a special dining experience where one sits across the counter from the sushi chef. We take a look at a popular sushi restaurant that maintains tradition while putting a new twist on their ingredients, as well as a high-end shop that has begun to reconsider their rigorous training to nurture young chefs, as we explore new trends in this cuisine that is loved around the world.
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Episode 2 - Saunas Heating Up Rural Japan
Release Date: 2023-01-13Sauna culture is experiencing a boom among young people in Japan. They're being used as a way to solve various problems, with unique efforts underway throughout the country. One local bus company struggling to stay afloat made one of their vehicles into a mobile sauna. Sauna using domestically grown cedar contains hopes for revitalization a lagging forestry industry. A sauna built in a small mountain village are attracting visitors from far and wide, creating warm interactions with elderly residents.
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Episode 3 - Kimonos for Everyone
Release Date: 2023-02-03The traditional Japanese clothing culture of kimono. Due to the many items and expertise required to wear one properly, as well as the clear distinction between men's and women's designs, opportunities to wear them in modern day Japan are becoming more and more rare. But a new trend is emerging to bring the kimono to a wider audience, with kimonos that transcend barriers of physical ability or gender.
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Episode 4 - Clothes that Lift the Spirit
Release Date: 2023-03-10Clothing holds the hidden potential to uplift our spirits. One designer who previously suffered from social withdrawal created a dress with a certain special feature in the pockets for people who for just leaving the house can be an anxiety inducing event. Another artist runs costume making workshops to emphasize unapologetic self-expression. Come along as we introduce efforts to reach people's hearts through the things we wear.
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Episode 5 - Young Animators Challenge the System
Release Date: 2023-04-01While anime from Japan continues to captivate the world, people involved in production have long endured tough working conditions like low wages and long working hours. The industry structure is ripe for change. Recently, a project to produce anime together with supporters using NFTs was launched. There is also a growing recognition of the potential of regional areas, instead of big cities like Tokyo. All signs are pointing to a dramatic shift in the Japanese animation industry.