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Documentary : Traditional Culture

Documentary

The Mark of Beauty |

SERIES The Mark of Beauty | Yuzen-dyed Kimono

DC330801Documentary

美の壷 | 友禅 [NHK]

|Length : 25min. |Year : 2008

There are many types of kimono in Japan, depending on the pattern and style, and one of the most gorgeous is the yuzen kimono. Introducing the transcendent yuzen craftsmanship that makes possible a painting-like freedom of design, the scrupulous selection of water to support the richness of color, and the caution points women must observe when wearing this kimono, Yuzen-dyed Kimono reveals the splendidly complex dyeing process that makes yuzen kimono so alluring.

Visas of Life: Japanese People who Saved 6000 Lives

DC281558Documentary

私をおぼえていてください 素敵な日本人へ [FTB]

|Length : 48min |Year : 2015

It is said that during the Second World War, around 6 million Jewish lives in Europe were lost by the hand of Nazi Germany. However, 6000 Jewish people were saved by being able to leave Europe thanks to transit visas issued by Chiune Sugihara, who worked for the Japanese consulate in Lithuania at the time. Crossing the Soviet Union by the Trans-Siberian Railway, the Jewish refugees were able to flee by boat from Vladivostok to the harbor of Tsuruga in Japan.
Many stories that were buried in the stream of history have been kept afloat in the memories of the Sugihara survivors. It is because of their testimony that we come to think this is a precious and important part of history, and something that should never get lost.

Dydo Group “Matsuri” of Japan Namahage The Deities That Come on New Year’s Eve

DC272138Documentary

ダイドー 日本の祭り「大晦日に訪れる神々男鹿のナマハゲ」 [AKT]

|Length : 48min |Year : 2021

In Akita Prefecture, up in northern Japan... a traditional ritual where deities called “Namahage” come to people’s houses has been carefully preserved by the 90-or-so villages of Oga City.
We’ve followed their footsteps over the course of 20 years. Each village has established its own style, and the tradition even died out in one of the villages but was revived again. The program focuses on three particular villages. Discover what these Namahage that go from house to house scolding children and those that have been lazy signify for the people of Oga.

Gion Festival 1150th Anniversary -The Essence of Japanese Culture and the Spirit of the Townspeople

DC272037Documentary

祇園祭~創始1150年!時代の波を乗り越えて~ [ABC]

|Length : 61min |Year : 2020

This program follows the Gion Festival as it celebrates its 1150th anniversary and provides an exclusive in-depth look at some of its lesser-known rituals and the floats whose decorative artworks from around the world have earned them the nickname "moving art museums." It also highlights the dedication of the people who put on the festival and explores the essence of Japanese culture.
Summer in Kyoto is synonymous with the magnificent Gion Festival that attracts more than a million visitors each year. Born from a desire to quell disasters following a devastating plague and earthquake in 869, the festival has continued uninterrupted for 1150 years despite numerous wars and natural disasters because of the indomitable spirit of the people of Kyoto. Today, the Gion Festival features 34 splendiferous floats featuring artworks from abroad and craftsmanship by top Japanese artisans.

Prominent Artisans of Kyoto Techniques and Artistic Spirits

DC272036Documentary

京職人手帖第7話 京職人 ~受け継がれる技と想い~ [KBS]

|Length : 20min |Year : 2020

Kyoto was the Imperial capital of Japan for over 1000 years until the mid-19th century. Most of Japan’s great traditions and culture grew and were nurtured in Kyoto by dedicated artisans. This program introduces some of the finest crafts people who have perfected their techniques and artistic spirits over many years.
KYOTO KACCHU or decorative armor is exhibited during the Boys’ Festival in May. It exudes a graceful character in its valiancy. Saji Takeo is a craftsman of Kyoto Armor and produces various pieces including helmets, armguards, and leg guards and assembles all the pieces to make finished products by hand.
Kyoto Knot-tassels were used as decorations for furnishings in the 9th century. And in the 17th century, knot-tassels were used for Buddhist altar fittings as well as monks’ Buddhist stoles. Kagitani Kyozo is a craftsman making Kyoto Knot-tassels. He knots and combines various types of traditional knots to make decorative knot-tassels.

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