Series
Magical Japanese
Documentary
Explore the richness and depth of the Japanese language and discover how words and expressions reflect history, culture and the natural world.
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Seasons & episodes
S1 · 6 epS2 · 16 epS3 · 17 epS4 · 18 epS5 · 1 ep
1Rain28 Mar 2021 · 10mThe Japanese language is rich in words and expressions influenced by nature, history and culture. This episode looks at words related to rain. Japan's annual rainfall is about twice the global average. Japanese people are sensitive to minute variations in rain, and it's said that there are some 400 Japanese expressions about rain. Join poet, literary translator and long-time Japan resident Peter MacMillan and explore unique words and the culture behind them.
2Cherry Blossoms28 Apr 2021 · 10mThis episode looks at words related to cherry blossoms. Cherry trees have thrived in Japan for thousands of years, and they hold a special place in the hearts of many Japanese people. Various expressions relating to cherry blossoms have developed over time. Join poet, literary translator and long-time Japan resident Peter MacMillan and explore unique words and the culture behind them.
3Trees27 Oct 2021 · 10mThis episode looks at words related to trees. Japan is a land of trees - two-thirds of the country is covered by forests. Trees support people's lives, and in turn, they have a deep respect for trees. Various expressions relating to trees have developed over time. Join poet, literary translator and long-time Japan resident Peter MacMillan and explore unique words and the culture behind them.
4Morning24 Nov 2021 · 10mThis episode looks at words related to the morning. Japanese people cherish the subtle changes in nature, and they have been particularly fond of the quiet hours in the early morning. The moment of sunrise alone has produced many beautiful expressions. Poet, literary translator, and long-time Japan resident Peter MacMillan guides us through unique words and the culture behind them.
5Water22 Dec 2021 · 10mThis episode introduces words associated with water. Water has long been regarded as plentiful and accessible in Japan. It is deeply embedded in Japanese culture and is even used to describe human relationships and life itself. Poet, literary translator and long-time Japan resident Peter MacMillan guides us through these unique words and the culture behind them.
6Night29 Dec 2021 · 10mThis episode looks at words related to the night. In ancient Japan, people appreciated the quiet and darkness of nighttime, and had different names for different times of the evening. The night was also associated with mysterious beings. From his home in Kyoto, poet and literary translator Peter MacMillan guides us through these words and the culture behind them.
Details
- First aired
- 28 Mar 2021
- Last aired
- 22 Apr 2025
- Status
- Ended
- Language
- English
- Network
- NHK WORLD-JAPAN
- Episodes
- 58
- Votes
- 2 on TMDB
Cast
Peter MacMillanSelf - Host
Emma HowardSelf - Narrator (voice)
