Japanology Plus

Season 13

13 episodes · Jan 8, 2026

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  • Glasswork
    S13E1

    Glasswork

    Jan 8, 202628m

    Glasswork is an art form featuring delicate yet bold designs. We take a closer look at Japanese glassmaking, where artisanal skills are passed down and the craft evolves with the times.

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  • Fragrances
    S13E2

    Fragrances

    Jan 22, 202628m

    From traditional incense sticks to perfumes that incorporate the scent of red ink pads, the range of fragrances in Japan is endless. We travel to Kyoto and Tokyo to sniff out the latest trends.

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  • Salmon
    S13E3

    Salmon

    Feb 12, 202628m

    Salmon is Japan's most popular fish eaten at home. However, catches have been plummeting due to global warming. We look at new approaches to salmon farming and what this fish means to people in Japan.

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  • Japanophiles: Phillip Richards
    S13E4

    Japanophiles: Phillip Richards

    Feb 26, 202628m

    Australian Phillip Richards gives back to his adopted home of Nozawaonsen by crafting gin and whiskey using local ingredients. We explore what draws him to this small village in Nagano Prefecture.

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  • Danchi Housing Complexes
    S13E5

    Danchi Housing Complexes

    Mar 12, 202628m

    Once symbols of Japan's postwar growth, danchi housing complexes now face aging buildings and residents. We look at new initiatives that are reshaping and even revitalizing these communities.

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  • Jazz Kissa
    S13E6

    Jazz Kissa

    Apr 9, 202628m

    For around 100 years, Japan's jazz kissa have offered a sanctuary for music lovers to enjoy jazz. We explore the enduring appeal of this unique subculture and how it is being preserved today.

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  • Chokatsu: Improving Gut Health
    S13E7

    Chokatsu: Improving Gut Health

    Apr 23, 202628m

    Our bodies are home to trillions of bacteria that influence our physical health and mental well-being. We explore Japan's relationship with fermented foods and "chokatsu," or gut-related activities.

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  • Sashiko Embroidery
    S13E8

    Sashiko Embroidery

    May 7, 202628m

    Sashiko is a type of traditional Japanese embroidery, once vital for the durability and warmth of clothes in cold climates. We explore how the charm of this enduring craft is being rediscovered.

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  • S13E9

    Seaweed

    May 21, 202628m

    Seaweed is earning recognition around the globe as a nutrient-packed superfood. From innovative dishes to bioplastics and renewable energy, we explore the untapped potential of seaweed.

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  • Kyoto Confectionery
    S13E10

    Kyoto Confectionery

    Jun 4, 202628m

    Japanese confectionery has evolved over centuries, shaped by influences from China and beyond. In Kyoto, artisans honor tradition while advancing the craft with a fresh, modern sensibility.

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  • Tidying Up
    S13E11

    Tidying Up

    Jun 18, 202628m

    How do we deal with modern clutter? From clever decluttering techniques in tiny homes to refined organization methods practiced by experts, we explore the Japanese sense of beauty in tidying up.

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  • Aizu: Unbreakable Spirit of Noguchi Hideyo
    S13E12

    Aizu: Unbreakable Spirit of Noguchi Hideyo

    Jul 16, 202628m

    Noguchi Hideyo, the former face of the 1,000-yen note, rose from adversity to become a renowned, life-saving bacteriologist. We visit his birthplace, Aizu, and trace his life of resilience.

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  • S13E13

    Aizu: Heartland of the Samurai

    Jul 23, 202628m

    In Aizu, samurai values of loyalty and firm resolve survived devastating defeat and drove a remarkable recovery. We explore how that spirit has shaped the area's sake, craft beer, and lacquerware.

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