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Michael travels to the cultural heart of Japan, Kyoto, the city that for a thousand years was the capital. He visits a Shinto shrine, learns about a classic of Japanese literature and meets a geisha.

Michael travels to the cultural heart of Japan, Kyoto, the city that for a thousand years was the capital. At the Rozanji temple, he learns about a book that is described as the world鈥檚 first novel, the Tale of Genji.

Across the city, Michael visits the last remaining wagasa umbrella workshop in Kyoto. At Kyoto鈥檚 Matsunoo shrine, Michael gets a beginner鈥檚 guide to shrine etiquette and discovers the countless daily Shinto rituals that have become part of Japanese life.

The day ends with Michael taking a trip to a local restaurant to meet Satoha, an apprentice geisha, to find out how this ancient artform is adapting to modern life.

11 months left to watch

29 minutes

Audio described

Credits

Role Contributor
Presenter Michael Portillo
Director Ben Rowland
Executive Producer John Comerford
Executive Producer Alison Kreps
Production Company Fremantle

Broadcast