Episode 1
Bonsai: Harmonious Beauty and Eternal Life
Jan 29, 2026
Bonsai came from China over 1000 years ago, evolving into a unique artform. In Kyoto, the emphasis is on beauty and harmony in space, the same aesthetic that flows through ikebana and the Way of Tea.
Episode 2
Taitan Cooking: Steeped in the Full Flavor of Dashi Stock
Feb 12, 2026
Taitan is Kyoto-style cuisine in which seasonal heritage vegetables are simmered until they are infused with dashi stock. The method evolved from vegetarian dishes made at Kyoto's Buddhist temples.
Episode 3
Tsukemono: Vegetable Pickles Embody Wisdom and Expertise
Mar 5, 2026
Traditional Tsukemono, or pickles, preserve centuries of wisdom, allowing the vegetables' inherent flavors to shine. Picklers uphold tradition while embracing new challenges for modern tastes.
Episode 4
Plasterers: Artisanal Beauty in Traditional Earthen Walls
Apr 16, 2026
Specialists rebuild a sturdy, mud-walled storehouse to safeguard cultural assets, scientifically examine plastering techniques, and strive to incorporate wattle and daub walls into modern structures.
Episode 5
Morning Tourism: Leisurely Activities to Clear the Mind
Apr 30, 2026
Kyoto is implementing measures to ease congestion at peak hours and combat over-tourism. One way encourages visitors to discover the city's true charm in the early morning, before the crowds arrive.
Episode 6
Tales of Sakura: Radiant Pink Blooms Reflect the Heart
May 28, 2026
Tales of Kyoto's cherry blossoms have survived centuries. These stories are reframed by every generation. Through them, people appreciate the importance of living with nature and the joy of spring.
Episode 7
The Art World's Genealogy: Respect for Creative Predecessors
Jun 11, 2026
A lineage of modern artists preserves and evolves Nihonga traditions, using the techniques as the foundation of their work. Convention and avant-garde, past and present resonate throughout their art.
Episode 8
Spirit Worship: Prayers to Dispel Curses and Bring Peace
Jun 25, 2026
The spirits of people who died in anger, disgrace, or battle were long ago believed to cast curses. This gave rise to rituals that honored and appeased them, in hopes of bringing peace to the nation.
Episode 9
Artisan Wisdom: A Bridge between Tradition and Science
Aug 13, 2026
The Kyoto Municipal Institute of Industrial Technology and Culture helps traditional industries overcome challenges by applying advanced technology and making their businesses more sustainable.
Episode 10
The Rain: Wisdom for Living with Nature's Blessing
Aug 27, 2026
To Japanese, rain is rarely a nuisance but a blessing that sustains life. From this notion emerged rituals; traditions in umbrellas, kimono, and confectionary; and the wisdom to prevent flooding.
Episode 11
Kyo-yuzen Kimono: Fine Gold Accents Radiate Elegance
Sep 10, 2026
Kyo-yuzen adds gold decoration in the final stages of kimono making, using gold leaf, powder, or paste. The Kyoto technique is gaining global attention through a project with The Rolling Stones.
Episode 12
Gozan Okuribi: Flames to Honor Ancestors and Connect with the Next World
Sep 24, 2026
Bonfires are lit on the mountains to guide ancestors back to the afterlife after their visit in August. This tradition connects the living and the dead through prayer and strengthens community bonds.
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