Kyoto
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.
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Credits
| Role | Contributor |
|---|---|
| Presenter | Michael Portillo |
| Director | Ben Rowland |
| Executive Producer | John Comerford |
| Executive Producer | Alison Kreps |
| Production Company | Fremantle |
Broadcast
- Tue 14 Apr 2026 18:30