Joanna Lumley’s Japan episode 2: The actress flies over Tokyo in a helicopter. The city was bombed extensively during the Second World War, so almost all of it is a symbol of the post-war economic boom that saw Japan become the world’s second largest economy. While in the capital, Joanna heads out to a nightclub to see a Japanese girl band and witnesses the largely male audience perform almost as much as the artists on stage. Later, Joanna travels to the Kiso Valley to walk the Nakasendo Way, an ancient route that once linked Tokyo to Kyoto, a place best known for that most famous of Japanese traditions, the Geisha.
Featuring the much loved Joanna Lumley, the series will follow her as she travels to the far reaches of Japan, from the icy Siberian seas of the north to the subtropical islands of the south. With her natural curiosity and engaging storytelling, Joanna will take viewers on an adventure exploring some of the most uncharted corners of Japana’s 6,800 mystical islands.
Joanna Lumley’s Japan episode 2
Tokyo
Tokyo, the capital city of Japan, is a hub of culture, history, and modernization. Japanese culture can be experienced and witnessed in many ways throughout the city. From the traditional temples and shrines to modern-day anime and fashion, Tokyo is a blend of the old and the new.
One of the most iconic symbols of Japanese culture in Tokyo is the Meiji Shrine. Dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, it is one of the most popular Shinto shrines in Tokyo. It was built in 1920 to honor the Emperor who played a significant role in modernizing Japan during the Meiji Era (1868-1912). Visitors can witness the traditional Japanese wedding ceremonies held in the shrine or take a stroll in the surrounding forest, which is a popular spot for cherry blossom viewing during springtime.
Another example of Japanese culture in Tokyo is Harajuku. Known for its street fashion, Harajuku is a bustling area filled with young people dressed in colorful and eclectic styles. Takeshita Street, the main street in Harajuku, is lined with shops selling unique fashion items, from Lolita dresses to Gothic accessories. It’s a popular spot for tourists to experience the quirky side of Japanese culture. For those interested in traditional Japanese performing arts, the Kabuki-za Theater in Ginza is a must-visit. Kabuki is a form of traditional Japanese theater that originated in the Edo period (1603-1868). The Kabuki-za Theater has been entertaining audiences for over a century and features daily performances of Kabuki plays, ranging from classic to contemporary.
In Tokyo, food is an integral part of Japanese culture. From sushi to ramen, visitors can indulge in a wide variety of Japanese cuisine. Tsukiji Fish Market is a popular spot to witness the auctioning of fresh seafood and to try some of the freshest sushi in the city. Tokyo is a vibrant city that offers a diverse range of cultural experiences. Whether it’s witnessing traditional Japanese performing arts, indulging in Japanese cuisine, or immersing oneself in the colorful world of Harajuku, there’s something for everyone to appreciate and enjoy in Tokyo.
Kiso Valley
Kiso Valley, located in the Nagano Prefecture of Japan, is a picturesque region known for its natural beauty, rich history, and traditional Japanese culture. The valley runs through the heart of the Japanese Alps and is home to some of the most stunning landscapes in the country.
The Kiso Valley has been a popular destination for travelers for centuries. It was once an important route for traders and travelers going from Edo (now Tokyo) to Kyoto, and many of the towns and villages along the way have preserved their traditional architecture and way of life. Walking through the valley, visitors can still see the wooden houses with thatched roofs, narrow streets, and old-fashioned storefronts that harken back to a bygone era.
One of the most popular attractions in the Kiso Valley is the Nakasendo trail, which connects the towns of Magome and Tsumago. The trail is a well-preserved section of the old highway and offers hikers the chance to experience what it was like to travel through the valley in ancient times. Along the way, visitors can stop at traditional tea houses, restaurants, and shops, and soak up the atmosphere of this charming region. The Kiso Valley is also known for its natural beauty. The area is rich in forests, rivers, and mountains, and visitors can enjoy hiking, camping, and fishing. In the winter, the valley transforms into a wonderland of snow and ice, and visitors can enjoy skiing, snowshoeing, and other winter sports.
The Kiso Valley is also home to many traditional festivals and cultural events. The most famous of these is the Onbashira festival, which takes place once every six years and involves the carrying of large logs through the streets of the town. The festival is a celebration of strength, endurance, and community spirit, and is a must-see for anyone visiting the valley. The Kiso Valley is a region of Japan that offers visitors a unique and unforgettable travel experience. With its stunning landscapes, rich history, and traditional culture, it is a place that should not be missed by anyone exploring this fascinating country.
