Japanology Plus
Japanophiles: Paul Lorimer
Nov 3 Thu 4:30/ 8:30/ 16:30/ 22:30 (UTC) <28 min.>
Awamori is Okinawa’s signature alcoholic beverage. After three or more years of aging it’s called kusu, a drink frequently noted for its fragrance and smoothness. In the old days the aging process would always take place in a ceramic vessel, and some of the best of these are now made by New Zealander Paul Lorimer, who has lived in Okinawa for 36 years. There are no short cuts for Lorimer. He digs his own clay, makes the vessels in a traditional way, and never stops experimenting as he strives for the ultimate kusu container. Interviewer: Peter Barakan
Dining with the Chef
Okinawan Home Cooking
Nov 4 Fri 14:30/ 20:30/ Sat 2:10/ 8:10 (UTC) <28 min.>
A kingdom once flourished in what is now Japan’s Okinawa prefecture. Even today, one can sense the presence of its culture. 82-year-old chef Ayaka Yamamoto specializes in the cuisine of the Ryukyu kingdom. The healthy food of Okinawa is credited with contributing to long lifespans of the people there. It reflects the tropical environment and history of a place influenced by Japan, China, and Southeast Asia. Gracious hospitality enhances the appeal. Program host Yu Hayami explores the essence of Ryukyu cuisine.
Cycle around Japan
A journey of Yaeyama Islands
Nov 5 Sat 23:10/ Sun 5:10/ 10:10/ 17:10 (UTC) <49 min. 30 sec.>
CYCLE AROUND JAPAN presents invigorating bike rides to hidden sites that have escaped the attention of guidebooks. This episode features the Yaeyama islands in Okinawa, where the lifestyle that has existed since ancient times is still strong. The trip is filled with discoveries, including the sabani boats of Ishigaki island made from logs, the exquisite scenery of Taketomi island, and a woman who carries on the tradition of minsa fabric. A stop on Hateruma leads to the island’s only school, where kids from kindergarten to junior high study together. Immerse yourself in a four-day journey through nature and culture.
J-MELO in Okinawa Part1, Part2
[Part 1] Nov 20 Sun 15:10/ 21:10/ Mon 3:30/ 9:30 (UTC) <28 min.>
[Part 2] Nov 27 Sun 15:10/ 21:10/ Mon 3:30/ 9:30 (UTC) <28 min.>
Over the course of two weeks, J-MELO brings you the grand finale of the “The 6th. WorldWide Uchinanchu Festival.” The event, in Naha, takes place every five years, drawing Okinawan people home from wherever they may be across the globe. This year’s performers include BEGIN, DIAMANTES, Kariyushi58, and RYUKYUDISKO. NHK’s Okinawa station conducted a survey to choose “Songs of Okinawa to present to the world,” and J-MELO host May J. will perform a tune from the list.
(Source: NHK WORLD TV press releas)