Episode 1
Kyojima - A Window into Tokyo's Good Old Days
Jan 31, 2024
We explore Kyojima, a neighborhood in eastern Tokyo that retains a remarkable amount of old Tokyo character. Along the way we meet local residents and see how they cherish the bonds of community.
Episode 2
Machiya - Cultivating the Spirit of Craftsmanship
Feb 14, 2024
We explore Machiya, a town in northeastern Tokyo known for its artisanal spirit. Along the way we visit traditional workshops, meet local craftspeople and learn about the area's history.
Episode 3
Yotsuya - Echoes of Old Edo
Feb 28, 2024
Yotsuya is a central neighborhood that sits between the Imperial Palace and Shinjuku. Join us as we venture down side streets and encounter pockets of Edo—the former name of Tokyo.
Episode 4
Tsukiji - A Town Reclaimed from the Sea
Mar 13, 2024
Tsukiji is famous for its fish and seafood market. As we explore, we learn about how it was created 370 years ago through land reclamation and follow its evolution up to the present.
Episode 5
Yaesu - The Other Gateway to Tokyo Station
Apr 3, 2024
We visit the Yaesu district, which borders Tokyo Station to the east. We'll explore drinking alleys, an extensive network of underground passageways and experience some old town culture.
Episode 6
Senju - A Sojourn in a Former Post Town
Apr 17, 2024
Senju in northeastern Tokyo developed 400 years ago as a post town providing lodging for travelers. We explore this historic area and meet the people and places at the heart of the community.
Episode 7
Takashimadaira - A Community Centered on "Danchi" Housing
May 1, 2024
Takashimadaira, north of central Tokyo, is home to one of the city's largest "danchi" housing complexes. We explore the grounds and meet members of the community who are making an impact.
Episode 8
Ochanomizu - A Lively Hub of Learning
May 15, 2024
Ochanomizu is a college town with roots going back 200 years to an academy started by the Edo shogunate. Come along and see why the area is known for used books, musical instruments and curry.
Episode 9
Mt. Mitake - The Sanctuary in the Sky
May 29, 2024
We visit Mt. Mitake in western Tokyo, known for the Shinto shrine on its summit and sacred areas of virtually unspoiled nature. We learn about samurai devotees and the tradition of mountain worship.
Episode 10
Kamata - A Town with Working-Class Spirit
Jun 12, 2024
We visit Kamata, a commercial district in southern Tokyo bustling with factories, cozy bars, public baths and more. Along the way, we learn its history and meet the people who call it home.
Episode 11
Shinjuku East Exit - A Colorful Hub of Excitement
Jun 26, 2024
We hit the town around Shinjuku East Exit, one of Tokyo's vibrant hubs. It has roots as a lodging area, which later welcomed a train terminal and eventually became a business and entertainment center.
Episode 12
Sawara - An Old Merchant Town with Festive Spirit
Jul 10, 2024
This time we venture out to Sawara in Chiba Prefecture. It's a 300-year-old town where merchant families prospered thanks to the Tone River. We see how the community is upholding its traditions.
Episode 13
Shibaura - The Tides of Transformation
Jul 24, 2024
We visit Shibaura on the edge of Tokyo Bay and unravel its transformation from a maritime hub to a town of high-rise condos. Throughout its history, it has played a key role in Tokyo's development.
Episode 14
Harajuku - A Wellspring of Creative Energy
Aug 7, 2024
We explore Harajuku, a neighborhood on the cutting edge of youth culture and fashion trends. Along the way we learn about its evolution from humble beginnings into a bustling shopping destination.
Episode 15
Nishi-Ogikubo - Fertile Ground for Small Businesses
Aug 21, 2024
Nishi-Ogikubo is an eclectic town on the western edge of central Tokyo. Join us as we learn about its roots as a farming area and trace its evolution into a cozy neighborhood of small businesses.
Episode 16
Akasaka - A Town of Heartfelt Hospitality
Sep 11, 2024
We visit Akasaka, a commercial district in the heart of Tokyo. As we explore, we learn how the hilly terrain shaped its development as a hub for politicians, business leaders and foreign dignitaries.
Episode 17
Okutama - An Oasis in Tokyo's Backyard
Sep 25, 2024
We visit Okutama, a town nestled in a mountain range on Tokyo's western edge, and learn about the complex history behind a large reservoir that serves as a vital water source for the metropolis.
Episode 18
Landmarks of the Tokyo Tower Area
Oct 9, 2024
The iconic Tokyo Tower was built in the center of the city over 60 years ago. Join us as we learn how the landmark came to be and take in the sights of the historic Shiba neighborhood around it.
Episode 19
Fussa - American Vibes and Multicultural Charm
Oct 23, 2024
We visit Fussa, a suburban area in western Tokyo known for the presence of a U.S. military base. Join us as we discover its rural roots and trace its evolution into a vibrant multicultural town.
Episode 20
Machida - A Suburban City with Satoyama Spirit
Nov 6, 2024
Machida is a suburban city about 30 minutes west of central Tokyo by train. Join us as we trace the local history and discover the charms of this hilly area that has been inhabited for millennia.
Episode 21
Ueno Park - At the Crossroads of Edo and Meiji
Nov 20, 2024
Ueno Park is one of Tokyo's oldest public parks. Join us as we take a stroll around the grounds and unravel the story of the city's transition from the samurai era to a modern society.
Episode 22
Zoshigaya - A Town Protected by a Repentant Demoness
Dec 4, 2024
Despite being next to the busy Ikebukuro district, the residential neighborhood of Zoshigaya has managed to avoid the trend of redevelopment. We explore the area and witness the bonds of community.
Episode 23
Hakone - From Barrier Station to Relaxing Retreat
Dec 18, 2024
We visit Hakone in Kanagawa Prefecture. Once the site of a security checkpoint for traffic in and out of old Tokyo, it evolved into a hot spring resort, now with an increasingly diverse community.
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