In an enthralling new exposé, CNN’s “The Journey Matters” delves into the verdant heart of Tokyo, unmasking a world where traditional handicrafts and nature merge. This episode, featuring Japanese supermodel Hikari Mori, is more than just a narrative; it’s a sensory odyssey into the soul of Tokyo’s often-overlooked traditional arts, deeply rooted in ‘shizen’ – the Japanese philosophy that emphasizes a profound bond with nature.

Amidst Tokyo’s bustling urban sprawl, a story of enduring artistry unfolds. Stepping off the glamourous runways, Mori embarks on an intimate exploration of her hometown, revealing how the metropolis, seemingly aloof from nature, harbours a community passionately preserving its artisanal heritage.

The journey begins with a visit to ceramist Aya Ogawa, whose hands are shaped more than clay. Each ichirin-sashi vase is a testament to her dedication to Earth’s elements. Ogawa’s creations are not mere objects; they are bridges connecting humanity to the very essence of the planet.

Noeud Tokyo, a haven of culinary artistry led by Chef Naoto Nakatsuka, offers a feast for the senses. Nakatsuka, a maestro of sustainable gastronomy, crafts a menu that’s a symphony of the land’s bounty. His philosophy of ‘total sustainability’ resonates in every dish, echoing the harmony between man and nature.

Venturing outside Tokyo to Ome, CNN introduces viewers to artisans safeguarding ancient traditions. The venerable Ozawa Shuzo brewery, a bastion of sake purity since 1702, is a testament to time-honoured practices. Meanwhile, Kosoen studio, bathed in shades of indigo, continues the legacy of aizome, an art form steeped in Japan’s historical tapestry.

The narrative then shifts to Tokyo’s modern interpretation of these age-old crafts. The Mogami Kogei workshop, a repository of Edo sashimono woodworking, showcases the blend of heritage and contemporary design. In contrast, K5 Tokyo, a former bank transformed into a design-forward boutique hotel, illustrates how traditional aesthetics can be reimagined in modern spaces.

“Cyashitsu Ryokan,” a serene sanctuary in Asakusa, epitomizes this blend of the old and new. Inspired by the tranquillity of tea ceremony rooms, its design invites guests to a contemplative rendezvous with nature, bridging the past and present.

This CNN special, anchored in the ethos of ‘shizen’, is not merely a showcase of Tokyo’s hidden gems. It’s a call to rediscover our roots, to find harmony in the embrace of the natural world, and to rekindle a reverence for traditions that speak of time, earth, and the human spirit.

As Mori traverses through these havens of artistry, viewers are not just spectators but participants in a journey that redefines the essence of Tokyo – a city where the pulse of nature beats firm beneath the veneer of urbanity.

“The Journey Matters” promises to be a transformative experience, inviting viewers to witness Tokyo through a lens that juxtaposes the ancient and the modern, the natural and the crafted. Tune in to this special 30-minute episode and embark on a journey that transcends mere viewing, becoming an immersive pilgrimage into the heart of Tokyo’s artistic soul.

Trailer: The Journey Matters

Airtimes:

• Saturday, 13th January, 1:30 pm HKT
• Sunday, 14th January, 10:30 am HKT
• Monday, 15th January, 2:30 am HKT

Written by: Anne Keam

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