Journeys in Japan

Setouchi Triennale - Art-island Hopping (4x28)

Air date: Aug 27, 2013

The Seto Inland Sea is surrounded by 3 of Japan's 4 main islands - Honshu, Shikoku and Kyushu. An international art festival called the Setouchi Triennale takes place on several of the 727 islands scattered across the sea. Our traveler this time is documentary film director Soraya Umewaka. She first stops by Ogijima Island, where she discovers functional artworks. They are colorful "onba" strollers, which residents use to transport items along narrow streets. She next visits Ibukijima Island, which is famous for its dried sardines called "iriko". There she appreciates the installation, "Unsinkable Ship", which represents the dynamism of schools of fish. Finally, she takes in Teshima - an Island that was ravaged by illegal industrial waste disposal. Recovered from its negative image, Soraya finds world-class art, rejuvenated nature and delicious cuisine prepared with local ingredients.