More details on BBC Four’s Japan Season unveiled

Further information on some of the programmes in BBC Four’s Japan season are coming to light.

Already trailered is The Art of Japanese Life presented by art historian Dr. James Fox. This three-part series will see explore the complexities of Japanese life via Japan’s relationship with nature, the city and the home. The first episode covers nature, looking at its relationship with both Buddhism and Shintoism, zen gardens, bonsai trees, and sees a visit to Naoshime Art Island. The first episode appears to be scheduled for 21.00 on 12th June.

Provisionally scheduled directly afterwards at 22.00 is Handmade in Japan, another three-part series which accompanies The Art of Japanese Life. This programme looks at the manufacture of three traditional Japanese items: the samurai sword, the kimono, and traditional pots.

Currently planned for 13th June at 21.00 is Ryan Gander: The Idea of Japan, in which the conceptual artist looks at the connections between Japanese visual culture and time. This is the first of any of the programmes to have something definitely anime related, as among the things that featured are Gundam figures. He will also look at both the traditional icons such as samurai, geisha and cheery blossoms, as well as modern aspects such as Tokyo street style.

There also appear to be repeats of past programmes scheduled such as nature documentary Japan: Earth’s Enchanted Islands.