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.

J-FOOD

Osaka will host the World Expo in 2025, and efforts are underway to utilize the Expo as an opportunity to promote local dishes and ingredients, and attract attention both in Japan and abroad. This segment highlights the activities related to Osaka foods to be served at Expo-related events. The focus is on the creation of a "Bento" using ingredients from Senshu in Osaka, an area which boasts an abundance of gourmet food.

J-CULTURE

Japanese tea is currently garnering unprecedented attention around the world. With the increasing popularity of Japanese cuisine and interest in the health benefits of Japanese tea, there has been a dramatic rise in its export volume in recent years. A lesser known fact, however, is that Kyoto is where Japanese tea was first made about 800 years ago-- And that its taste and quality are greatly affected not only by where and how it’s produced, but also by the efforts and commitment of its producers. This segment focuses on Japanese tea and the secrets behind its taste.

J-TRIP

Himeji Castle, also known as the White Heron Castle, is the symbol of Himeji City. A fresh image for the city is inspired by the word “Shiro”, which means “white” in Japanese. The Shoshazan Engyoji Temple is known as one of the settings of the film The Last Samurai. We visit a Japanese sake brewery and the young female chief brewer in charge, tasting some sake made from pure white rice, and also feature white bean paste “shiro-azuki” confection at Kineya Japanese sweets shop to conclude the trip. This segment features Himeji experiences with the “Shiro” theme.