External Rating16%
202315 minRunning

The World Heritage Sites in Japan

Network:NHK World

Previous Episode

S2025E06 - "The Beauty and Beliefs of the Shinto Shrine on the Sea: Itsukushima Shrine"

Aired on Mar 20, 2026, 3:00 AM

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Description

From natural landscapes to historic architecture representing centuries of cultural development, Japan's World Heritage sites offer a wide range of glimpses into history and the beauty of nature.

Details

Status
Running
Runtime
15 min
Premiered
February 8, 2023

External Links

Episodes (3 Seasons · 20 Episodes)

Mt. Fuji: Sacred Peak and Focus of Faith and Art: Fujisan, Sacred Place and Source of Artistic Inspiration

Mt. Fuji is Japan's tallest and most famous peak. As an active volcano, it has also inspired awe and terror. Mt. Fuji has also inspired artists, including Katsushika Hokusai, as seen in his famous "The Great Wave off Kanagawa." Many 19th-century prints of Mt. Fuji contributed to Europe's japonisme trend. Explore the beauty of a mountain that inspires both artists and faith.

May 12, 2025

15 min

Preserved from Time Immemorial to the Present - Mozu-Furuichi Kofun Group: Mounded Tombs of Ancient Japan -

An astonishing 49 burial mounds of various shapes and sizes are scattered across Osaka. These 1,600-year-old mounds are the resting places of past rulers and elites. Research reveals new discoveries.

May 18, 2025

15 min

250 Years of Faithful Prayer: Hidden Christian Sites in the Nagasaki Region

Christianity came to Japan in 1549 via Portuguese missionaries. It spread swiftly, especially in Nagasaki and Amakusa. But concerns about foreign influence led to it being outlawed and viciously suppressed. Japanese Christians went into hiding, and despite having no priests or churches, kept their faith alive for 250 years. Explore the ruins where some made their last stand, as well as the beautiful Oura Cathedral.

May 25, 2025

15 min

A Testimony of 10,000 Years of Pre-Agricultural Sedentary Life: The Jomon Prehistoric Sites in Northern Japan

15,000 years ago, Jomon people lived in settlements while hunting and gathering nature's bounty. These sites show the lifestyle they led for 10,000 years, avoiding conflict and coexisting with nature.

Mar 20, 2026

15 min

Blending Beauty and Battle Defense: Himeji Castle

The brilliant white Himeji Castle is a rare example of a wood castle built without a single nail. With solid battle defenses and beauty preserved by craftsmen, it's a masterpiece of function and form.

Mar 20, 2026

15 min

The Beauty and Beliefs of the Shinto Shrine on the Sea: Itsukushima Shrine

Appearing to float on the sea, Itsukushima Shrine is built in harmony with nature, changing appearance with the tide. A symbol of beauty and beliefs, its clever construction protects it from the sea.

Mar 20, 2026

15 min

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