Core Kyoto

The biggest event in the mountain village of Hirogawara in northern Kyoto is held in late August. Men hurl flaming bundles into the air to light a torch towering 20m high in prayer for good health and harvests. Originating from a fire prevention ritual held when the main local industry was charcoal making, villagers still start preparing months in advance. Discover the efforts being made to maintain this 300-year-old summer festival despite concerns for the future of this depopulating village.

All Episodes - Season 6

Episode 1

Kurama: Mystical Land of Legends

Episode 2

Fabric Pieces: Honoring the Past

Episode 3

Celebrating the New Year: With Reverence and Gratitude

Episode 4

An Artistic Lineage: Nurturing a Painting Tradition

Episode 5

Bubuzuke: A Dish Inspired by Frugality

Episode 6

Maiko Hair Ornaments: A Classical Culture of Kawaii

Episode 7

Yasurai Matsuri: Town Elders' Prayers Embodied in Flowers and Dance

Episode 8

Dynastic Arts & Crafts: The Pursuit of Heian Peace and Beauty

Episode 9

Mirei Shigemori: The Ageless Modernity of the Rock Garden

Episode 10

Kyokusui-no-Utage: Poetry with Classic Heian Elegance

Episode 11

Satoyama Living: Country Customs Sustaining the Ancient Capital

Episode 12

Japanese Pepper: The Zesty Spice of Kyoto Cuisine

Episode 13

Tatami: The Flooring Underlying Japanese Culture

Episode 14

Folding Fans: Cooling Accessories Encapsulate Elegance

Episode 15

The Matsuage Festival: Keeping the Fire Tradition Alive

Episode 16

The Artisans for the Deities: Enduring Skills and Devotion

Episode 17

Kyoto Cosmetics: Secrets for Drawing Out Inner Beauty

Episode 18

The Culture of Gold Leaf: Gossamer Layers Beget Profound Beauty

Episode 19

Kyoto Swords: Splendor That Dispels Evil Spirits

Episode 20

End of the Samurai Era: The Capital Survives Turbulent Times