Core Kyoto
Season 9, Episode 4: Life in a Machiya: The Appreciation of Nature and Time
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The traditional, wooden townhouses built prior to 1950 that dot the downtown area of Kyoto served as both living and work spaces. American Jeff Berglund, university professor and Kyoto tourism ambassador, lives in one built 160 years ago. A Japan resident for 50 years, Berglund aspires to living in harmony with nature. He honors the customs of old that are still practiced today and promotes Japan's culture abroad. Discover the pleasures of living in a Machiya through Berglund's daily encounters.
All Episodes - Season 9
Episode 1
Conversations: A Nishijin Textile Producer & An Architect
Episode 2
The Forests of Keihoku: Nature's Blessings Sustain the Ancient Capital
Episode 3
Conversations: The Enduring Pride of Two Venerable Families
Episode 4
Life in a Machiya: The Appreciation of Nature and Time
Episode 5
Tango Chirimen: The Finest Texture in Silk Crepe
Episode 6
Conversations: A Landscape Gardener and a Glass Artist
Episode 7
Okudo-san: Traditional Cooking Stoves
Episode 8
Karakami: Ornamental Paper with Timeless Beauty
Episode 9
Higashiyama Potters: Creativity in Clay Connects the Ages
Episode 10
The World of Moss: Soothing Beauty, Subtle yet Refined
Episode 11
Wire Netting Utensils: Practical, Superbly Handwoven Beauty
Episode 12
Kyoto Breweries: Aromatic Tipples to Suit the Times
Episode 13
Taiko Drums: The Pulsing Heartbeat of Life
Episode 14
Calligraphy for the Times: The Resonating Power of Ink
Episode 15
Tokonoma: Alcoves of Reverence and Welcoming Beauty
Episode 16
Beans: Versatile, Practical, and Cultural
Episode 17
Dramatic Masks: Embodiments of Prayers to the Spirit World