Spiritual Explorers

The Kishiwada Danjiri is a 250-year-old festival in which 200 people pull a 4-ton cart at top speed through the streets. Explore the spirituality behind this audacious ritual.

The bow and arrow, once a deadly weapon, has developed into the martial art of kyudo. We explore the way of the bow as a means to achieving peace of mind.

The spirit of the samurai is very much alive in kendo, a martial art using bamboo swords. Our explorer visits a dojo to gain an insight into the training of spirit, body and mind.

Japan is home to over 3,000 onsen. Our explorer visits two old hot springs to learn the significance of bathing to the Japanese spirit.

Ikebana enhances the inherent beauty of flowers, imperfection and all. Under the guidance of Ikebana Master Shuho, we explore the spirit of this art form.

Miyadaiku are carpenters who specialize in shrines and temples. Explore the spirit and wisdom infused in the woodworking (techniques) of these artisans handed down through the ages.

Gassan, revered as a sacred peak for 1,400 years, is where ancestral spirits are said to reside. Our explorer joins worshippers who climb to be with the dead.