Journeys in Japan - Season 16 - Eps 6: Gunma: Raking in Good Luck

2025-03-1828 min⭐ 9/10

For centuries, Daruma dolls have been popular in Japan as talismans to bring good fortune. The largest producer of Daruma dolls in Japan is Takasaki City, Gunma Prefecture, where there are about 40 workshops. The nearby city of Kiryu has a different good-luck charm: decorated rakes that are sold at fairs. A famous local specialty is Himokawa udon: the noodles are cut extra-long and wide as a wish for longevity. Euan Craig is an Australian potter and longtime Gunma resident. On this edition of Journeys in Japan, he digs deep into the history and culture of these talismans and meets some of the people who produce them.

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About Journeys in Japan

Journeys in Japan

Title: Journeys in Japan

First Air Date: 2010-02-02

Last Air Date: 2025-04-15

Status: Returning Series

Rating: 9/10 (from 1 votes)

Language: EN

Seasons: 16

Total Episodes: 526

Network: NHK WORLD-JAPAN

Genres: Documentary

Production Companies: Japan International Broadcasting (JIB), NHK

Synopsis

Journeys in Japan provides an eye-opening look at the many unique places to visit in Japan. English-speaking visitors travel the length of the country, exploring the culture, meeting the local people, visiting historic sites and offering travel hints rarely found in guidebooks.

Cast

Bill Sullivan

Bill Sullivan

Self - Narrator (voice)

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