Hometown Stories (2011)
Stories about people, stories about life. Intimate portraits of people from around Japan, each leading diverse lives while enriching lives of others.
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A man in his seventies has been transporting fruit and supplies to places affected by the 2011 disaster. On his final journey, he shares emotional farewells with people whose lives he's made brighter.
In a mountain community in northeastern Japan, a 21-year-old man has decided to become the first successor of a traditional local Kagura dance in 50 years. We follow him as he prepares for his debut.
In Japan's snowy north, an elderly woman has been making pickles for 70 years. Now, she must learn to adapt to new laws and a warming climate. And her efforts seem to be paying off.
What happens when people gather to gaze at the stars? Through a variety of programs, a Japanese organization enables a broad range of participants to learn more about the universe and themselves.
Families come to Ago Bay, central Japan, to have loved ones' ashes encased in pearls. They insert them into oysters so they can grow in the sea. We explore what has made families reach this decision.
An improper diagnosis in early childhood led Shibasaki Akane to spend nearly half her life in a world without words. We follow her as she expands her horizons and moves toward an independent future.
In Nagasaki, a group of men practice for a traditional performance so tough that some have to drop out with injuries. Under their motto of "Smile," will they succeed and pass on the custom?
A popular hiking guide in northern Japan brings smiles to the faces of all her clients. What events from her past brought her to where she is today? And what is her secret for spreading happiness?
A small high school canoeing club trains hard every day. While persevering and improving their skills, they learn valuable life lessons in the clear waters of the Shimanto River in Kochi Prefecture.
Twelve years after a massive quake and tsunami in northeast Japan, we followed taxi drivers in Kesennuma, one of the affected towns, to experience people's memories and hopes through their eyes.
Nepalese students who are studying in Japan are finding community at a local store selling Nepalese goods. What challenges do they face as they pursue their dreams so far from home?
A one-legged climber, who uses forearm crutches, aims to conquer two rugged peaks in central Japan at the same time. We find out what spurs him to take up the challenge and what views await him.
During World War II, a radio children's choir brought joy to its members and listeners alike. We uncovered the story of the teacher who led it, working to promote the cause of peace through music.
There is a mosque in western Japan where local Muslims gather to pray and seek help when they are troubled. For them, the mosque is like a second home that provides happiness and emotional support.
A shuttered elementary school reopened for just one family that moved back to their beloved hometown. We look at their joys and struggles, and local efforts to enliven a small fishing settlement.
There's a Korean restaurant in Northeastern Japan run by a woman from South Korea. She moved to the area over 30 years ago to marry a Japanese man. We follow her as she connects with local people.
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Stories about people, stories about life. Intimate portraits of people from around Japan, each leading diverse lives while enriching lives of others.
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