ARTS & CULTURE
Arts & Culture of Japan
日本の芸術と文化
This series in line with the various themes of The Japan Foundation Traveling Exhibitions from its collection can also be enjoyed as movie works.
The videos introduce various aspects of Japanese art and culture, including high-resolution images of national treasures, footage shot on location in various parts of Japan, scenes of production, interviews, and more.
In addition, please enjoy videos introducing the appeal of Japan's proud Manga Culture from a variety of perspectives.
The Japanese Spirit of Gifting
In Japan, gifts have long been used to express wishes for the other person's happiness and feelings of gratitude. Gifts therefore had a stylistic beauty that was appropriate for such expressions.
We will introduce the beauty of gifts such as wedding gifts, furoshiki, and celebratory gifts along with the Japanese culture of gift-giving.
- Subtitles:
- Japanese, English, Simplified Chinese, Portuguese, Spanish, Arabic
- Audio:
- Japanese
Japanese Design Today 100
Let's explore Japanese design. From objects such as consumer products to intangible systems and services, the designs we use in our daily lives speak volumes about our lifestyles and society. These contents shed light on the characteristics of Japanese design today and on the current state of Japanese culture.
- VR:
- English
- Promotional video:
- English
Japanese Yokai
Let’s explore the world of “Yokai”. Since ancient times, Yokai have appeared in various stories in all regions of Japan, surprising and frightening people. This series introduces them as a Japanese culture, who are transforming into a friendly existence in the present day.
- Subtitles:
- Japanese, English, Arabic, Italian, Khmer, Spanish, Portuguese, Russian, Korean, Simplified Chinese
- Audio:
- Japanese
The Superlative Artistry of Japan
This series introduces some of the countless examples of the superlative artistry of Japan, from elaborate craft masterpieces of the Meiji period, such as pottery, cloisonné, metalworking, woodworking, lacquerware, etc., miniature paintings of Jakuchu, to contemporary artworks that demonstrate consummate expression and a strong commitment to craftsmanship.
- Subtitles:
- Japanese, English, Khmer, Arabic, Simplified Chinese, Portuguese, Spanish
- Audio:
- Japanese
I Love Sushi
Let’s explore “Sushi”, one of the most recognizable symbols of Japan. This series traces the history and present-day appeal of Sushi, which is delicious, beautiful to look at, and good for your health.
- Subtitles:
- Japanese, English, Arabic, Chinese, Simplified Chinese, Portuguese, Spanish
- Audio:
- Japanese
Netsuke
“Netsuke” are miniature sculptures small enough to fit in the palm of the hand. This vide explores the artistic vision and stories behind each piece, the thoughts of the artisans and collectors, the possibilities opened up by these small Netsuke, and their appeal.
- Subtitles:
- Japanese, English, Arabic, Chinese, Simplified Chinese, Portuguese, Spanish
- Audio:
- Japanese (available from the Japanese page) and English
NINGYŌ: Art and Beauty of Japanese Dolls
Japanese dolls, known in Japanese as Ningyō, originate from ancient times, where they were used in rituals. These videos introduce the diversity of Japanese dolls over their long history, including seasonal festival dolls, local folk dolls, and dolls as works of art. It also explores the appeal of these dolls, which have been popular among people of all ages and genders across time.
- Subtitles:
- Japanese, English, Arabic, Simplified Chinese, Portuguese, Spanish
- Audio:
- Japanese (available from the Japanese page) and English
YAKISHIME : Exquisite Wares Created from Clay and Fire
“Yakishime”, the simple process of forming and firing clay, may be one of the earliest known methods of producing ceramics. Fired at high temperatures, the clay binds together to form a ceramic so hard it becomes waterproof. Enjoy discovering the world of Yakishime, simple yet profoundly tasteful ceramics that are also imbued with a level of practicality.
- Subtitles:
- Japanese, English, Arabic, Chinese, Portuguese, Spanish
- Audio:
- Japanese
BUILT ENVIRONMENT: An Alternative Guide to Japan
Across Japan, there are many attractive buildings and structures that have been constructed through engaging and struggling with the natural environment and carrying on locality. This video series rediscovers these by adopting the perspective of the “built environment,” which puts spotlight on the interplay among buildings, civil engineering works, and landscapes.
- Subtitles:
- Japanese, English, Arabic, Simplified Chinese, Portuguese, Spanish
- Audio:
- Japanese
MANGA culture in Japan
Manga is appreciated by people of all ages, from children to adults. These videos broadly introduce Manga culture in Japan from various perspectives, including how Manga is made and interviews with artists and editors.
- Subtitles:
- Japanese, English, Arabic, Simplified Chinese, Korean, French, Portuguese, Spanish
- Audio:
- Japanese (available from the Japanese page)and English
