Somewhere Street

Attracting over 6 million visitors from Japan as well as the rest of the world, Nagasaki Prefecture is a major tourist destination. Between the 17th and 19th centuries, Nagasaki was the only port in Japan where foreign trade was permitted. After Japan opened its doors to the West in the 19th century, Nagasaki's prosperous shipbuilding industry triggered the modernization of Japan. In this episode, we stroll around the beautiful city surrounding slopes and covered with houses known as the "city of hills."

The capital of Georgia is Tbilisi, a city that once flourished as a Silk Road trade center connecting Asia, the Middle East and Europe. People arrived in the city from various countries with goods to sell, enabling prosperity. The cultures introduced by foreign forces who attacked the city also enabled prosperity. The city motto is "guests are messengers from God." Annexed to the Soviet Union in 1922, Georgia declared independence in 1991. Tbilisians have an indomitable and hospitable spirit.

Siem Reap is a popular tourist destination because it is close to the largest religious monument in the world, the temple complex of Angkor Wat. A legacy of the Khmer Empire which ruled the area for 500 years beginning in the 9th century, Angkor served as its capital city. The majestic monuments are testimony of the impressive achievements of that era and continue to be popular tourist attractions. The people of Siem Reap take pride in the monument they consider the soul of Cambodia. In this episode, we explore the city of Siem Reap and meet its residents who embrace Buddhism and preserve the culture of the Khmer Empire.

Located about an hour and a half away from the hectic hustle and bustle of Tokyo, Chichibu is a quiet leisurely paced city. In 2016 its Night Festival was designated a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. Chichibu Kabuki is a big draw at this festival. For over 400 years, Chichibu has been home to various industries. In the early 1900s silk industry flourished and a number of factories and stores were built. Chichibu's weaving industry went into decline after the second half of the 20th century. In this episode, we stroll around the old city where the retrospective buildings are carefully preserved.

Bayonne is a city located in the Basque Country in southern France. Settled by the Basque people during the time of the Roman Empire, Bayonne was a Roman stronghold on the main highway. During the middle ages it developed as a trading port and flourished. Basque people are known for their rich heritage and unique culture. Since the 12th century the city has been known for the production of Bayonne ham and in the 15th century, it became the first city in France to make chocolate. In this episode, we explore Bayonne and meet its residents who love their traditions and their distinctive culture.