CATCH JAPAN (May 2024)

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-Factory

In Shimane Prefecture, there is a steelworks that has uniquely preserved the manufacturing method of Tamahagane, the special steel used to make Japanese swords also known as the Katana or Nihonto. This segment features the company that supports the steelworks, which also produces special steel and materials for aircraft engines, combining tradition with today’s modern technology.

J-Food

In Niigata Prefecture, there are many restaurants and eateries that make the most of their prime location, such as rice ball vendors near rice paddies and a sushi restaurant that uses wild vegetables. The prefecture has also begun to focus on gastro-tourism to encourage people to experience Niigata's climate through food. In March, the first Niigata Gastronomy Awards were announced, recognizing restaurants and other foods that use local ingredients. This program conveys Niigata's food climate and passion of the people behind it all.

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

Ibaraki Prefecture is about 2 hours away from Narita Airport by express bus. A booklet compiling photographs of the prefecture’s beautiful sceneries, adorned with enticing descriptions in English, was published to showcase its appeal to more overseas tourists. Changing seasons, breathtaking nature, profound spirituality nurtured by its history, and more… In this segment, we rediscover Ibaraki Prefecture’s charms through the eyes of the booklet’s editor.