Arts & Culture of Japan

This video series is based on a variety of themes explored in the Japan Foundation’s traveling exhibitions drawn from its collection.

The videos introduce diverse aspects of Japanese art and culture through high-resolution images of national treasures and location footage filmed across Japan, as well as behind-the-scenes glimpses of the creation process and interviews.

The series also includes videos that explore the richness of Japan’s manga culture from a variety of perspectives.

The Japanese Spirit of Gifting

In Japan, gifts have long been used to express wishes for the happiness of others and feelings of gratitude. Over time, gifts came to embody distinctive forms of beauty suited to these sentiments.

We introduce the beauty of wedding attire, furoshiki wrapping cloths, and celebratory gifts, together with aspects of Japanese culture reflected in the customs associated with gift-giving.

• Subtitles: Japanese, English, Simplified Chinese, Portuguese, Spanish, Arabic
• Audio: Japanese

Japanese Design Today 100

From consumer products to systems and services, design takes many forms in supporting our daily lives.

Through a diverse range of exhibits, these videos introduce not only the characteristics of contemporary Japanese design but also the current state of Japanese culture.

• Virtual Tour: English
• Japanese Design Today 100: English

Japanese Yokai

Let’s explore the world of Yokai. Since ancient times, Yokai are supernatural beings that have appeared in stories throughout Japan, surprising and frightening people.

This series introduces Yokai as an enduring element of Japanese culture that has been passed down through the ages and gradually transformed into familiar and beloved figures.

• Subtitles: Japanese, English, Arabic, Italian, Khmer, Spanish, Portuguese, Russian, Korean, Simplified Chinese
• Audio: Japanese

Watch all episodes of “Japanese Yokai”

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 era, such as pottery, cloisonné, metalworking, woodworking, lacquerware, etc., and the meticulous detail of Jakuchu’s paintings, to contemporary artworks that demonstrate consummate expression and a strong commitment to craftsmanship.

• Subtitles: Japanese, English, Khmer, Arabic, Simplified Chinese, Portuguese, Spanish
• Audio: Japanese

Watch all episodes of “The Superlative Artistry of Japan”

I Love Sushi

Let’s explore Sushi, a hallmark of Japanese food culture that is now enjoyed around the world.

This series traces the history and present-day appeal of Sushi, renowned for its flavor, visual beauty, and health benefits.

• Subtitles: Japanese, English, Arabic, Chinese, Simplified Chinese, Portuguese, Spanish
• Audio: Japanese

Watch all episodes of “I Love Sushi”

Netsuke

Netsuke are miniature sculptures small enough to fit in the palm of the hand.

This video explores the stories and ideas embodied in each piece, as well as the perspectives of the artisans and collectors, revealing the rich possibilities and enduring appeal of these small works of art.

• Subtitles: Japanese, English, Arabic, Chinese, Simplified Chinese, Portuguese, Spanish
• Audio: Japanese and English

NINGYŌ: Art and Beauty of Japanese Dolls

Japanese dolls, known in Japanese as Ningyō, have their origins in ancient ritual practices.

These videos introduce the rich diversity of Japanese dolls that has developed over the centuries, including seasonal festival dolls, local folk dolls, and dolls created as works of art. They also explore the enduring appeal of Japanese dolls, which continue to be cherished by people of all ages today.

• Subtitles: Japanese, English, Arabic, Simplified Chinese, Portuguese, Spanish
• Audio: Japanese and English

Watch all episodes of “NINGYŌ: Art and Beauty of Japanese Dolls”

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 hardens and becomes highly resistant to water.

Explore the world of Yakishime—simple yet rich in character, and valued for both its beauty and practicality.

• Subtitles: Japanese, English, Arabic, Chinese, Portuguese, Spanish
• Audio: Japanese

Watch all episodes of “YAKISHIME : Exquisite Wares Created from Clay and Fire”

BUILT ENVIRONMENT: An Alternative Guide to Japan

Across Japan, there are many attractive buildings and structures that have been created through engagement with the natural environment and by carrying forward regional characteristics.

This video series rediscovers them through the perspective of the “built environment,” which puts the spotlight on the interplay among buildings, civil engineering works, and landscapes.

• Subtitles: Japanese, English, Arabic, Simplified Chinese, Portuguese, Spanish
• Audio: Japanese

Watch all episodes of “BUILT ENVIRONMENT: An Alternative Guide to Japan”

MANGA culture in Japan

Manga are enjoyed by people of all ages, from children to adults.

Through a variety of perspectives, including the manga-making process and interviews with artists and editors, these videos introduce various aspects of Japan’s manga culture.

• Subtitles: Japanese, English, Arabic, Simplified Chinese, Korean, French, Portuguese, Spanish
• Audio: Japanese and English

Watch all episodes of “MANGA culture in Japan”