CATCH JAPAN

Aired: May 28, 2020 (UTC)


Series Information

Explore a colorful variety of modern Japan’s most popular topics, including food, technology, ecology and regional promotions, with a focus on the innovative ideas and passionate effort from the people behind it all.

J-STREET

“Nonbei Yokocho,” is an area where about 40 cozy eateries and watering holes line the streets, located a one-minute walk from the famous Shibuya crossing. This segment documents how the landscape has changed since the effects of the COVID-19 crisis hit the area, as well as the efforts of Nonbei Yokocho Publicist Mikuriya Koichiro to help sustain businesses through crowdfunding.

Shibuya Nonbei Yokocho in May 2020
Mikuriya Koichiro, Publicist of Nonbei Yokocho

J-VOICES

This segment features the voices of foreign residents in Tokyo amidst the spread of COVID-19 in the city. Interviews with people from China and Thailand on their feelings and concerns in living in Tokyo were held at Asian foods markets in Ikebukuro and Okubo, with one of our translators working remotely due to their own safety concerns. Program host Maxwell Powers also interviews friends over the internet, gathering the impressions of people from other Asian countries. This segment also features interviews with the director and staff of the AMDA International Medical Information Center regarding what kind of consultations they receive from foreign residents.

Kobayashi Yoneyuki, Director of the AMDA International Medical Information Center and Kobayashi International Clinic
At the AMDA International Medical Information Center office

J-KITCHEN

This segment features the changes caused by the COVID-19 situation to kids’ diner DAN-DAN, located in Tokyo. Kondo Hiroko opened the diner for kids from low-income families to provide them hearty meals at a low price. With the spread of COVID-19, the diner had to be closed, but Kondo started to provide meals by selling them in lunch boxes. How has Kondo adjusted the initiative for the kids and their parents, and what are her thoughts on the situation?

Kondo Hiroko with a customer just outside the Kids’ Diner
Lunch boxes sold at the Kids’ Diner
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Our Series

Trailblazers We follow Japan’s trailblazers breaking new ground in various fields and discover the purpose that keeps them moving forward.
Catch Japan Explore a colorful variety of modern Japan’s most popular topics, including food, technology, ecology and regional promotions, with a focus on the innovative ideas and passionate effort from the people behind it all.
The Heart of Fukui This series explores the allure of traditional culture thriving in Fukui, a region rich in nature facing the Sea of Japan.
SPIRIT OF JAPAN The program introduces the history and wisdom behind Japan’s technological strength and specialties, which are helping to revitalize regional areas of the country.
Explore Japan This series will feature how various culture in modern Japan and overseas blend together and influence each other.
Exploring the Lands of the Ainu In this series, we visit areas in Hokkaido with deep connections to the Ainu living there and showcase their prayers, dances, and traditional ceremonies passed down through generations.
J-Entertainment Infotainment show featuring young artists full of talent with their unique sense of “Japan.”
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