About this season
In conversation with... Japan expert Robert Campbell sits down with individuals from all walks of life whose drive and perspectives are changing Japan.
Episodes (6)
1. Kawashima Toru: Connection and Tradition in Recovering Noto
Aired 31 January 2025 • 28 min
Kawashima Toru is a chef of Japanese cuisine based in Noto. Through the power of food and human connection, he's been working to help the region recover from the New Year's Day 2024 earthquake.
2. Ninagawa Mika: Where Fantasy Meets Reality
Aired 7 February 2025 • 28 min
Photographer and film director Ninagawa Mika is known for her vibrantly colorful works. She shares insight into her latest exhibition, as well as her thoughts on life and peace.
3. Imamura Shogo: Illuminating the Present with Historical Fiction
Aired 31 May 2025 • 28 min
Imamura Shogo is a writer of historical fiction who showcases unlikely protagonists to explore modern social issues. He talks about his methodology and his efforts to keep paper books alive.
4. Take Yutaka: Riding Towards Greatness
Aired 28 June 2025 • 28 min
Legendary jockey Take Yutaka won his first G1 race at 19 years old, and has remained at the top for nearly 40 years. How does he draw out the full potential of his horses? And what lies ahead for him?
5. Tomio Koyama: Curating Creativity
Aired 16 August 2025 • 28 min
World-renowned gallerist Tomio Koyama helped launch the careers of artists Takashi Murakami and Yoshitomo Nara. He shares his unique approach and his vision for the future of Japan's art scene.
6. Okada Junichi : Reviving Samurai Action
Aired 25 October 2025 • 28 min
Actor Okada Junichi is the producer and action choreographer for a samurai series set for global release. He shares his passion for the genre, which draws heavily on Japanese physical techniques.