The Japanese language is rich in words and expressions influenced by nature, history and culture. This episode introduces words associated with water. Water has long been regarded as plentiful and accessible in Japan. It is deeply embedded in Japanese culture and is even used to describe human relationships and life itself. Poet, literary translator and long-time Japan resident Peter MacMillan guides us through these unique words and the culture behind them.

The Japanese language is rich in words and expressions influenced by nature, history and culture. This episode looks at words related to the night. In ancient Japan, people appreciated the quiet and darkness of nighttime, and had different names for different times of the evening. The night was also associated with mysterious beings. From his home in Kyoto, poet and literary translator Peter MacMillan guides us through these words and the culture behind them.

The Japanese language is rich in words and expressions influenced by nature, history and culture. This episode looks at words related to houses. Traditional Japanese homes give us a glimpse of the Japanese love for the changing seasons and how the Japanese developed a temperament that values cooperation. From his home in Kyoto, poet and literary translator Peter MacMillan guides us through these words and the culture behind them.