Joanna Lumley's Japan

Joanna Lumley’s Japan is a captivating three-part television documentary that made its debut on ITV in 2016. It stars the charismatic British actress Joanna Lumley, known for her roles in Absolutely Fabulous, The New Avengers, On Her Majesty's Secret Service, and many others. The series allows viewers to explore the visually striking and culturally rich nation of Japan alongside Lumley, who, as your television guide, painstakingly endeavors to unfurl the various intricacies of the multifaceted Nippon nation as she travels from the snowy north to the tropical south.

While Japan may be famed for its technological advancements, the series does not merely brush upon the technological leaps and bounds. Instead, Joanna Lumley's Japan unveils the heart and soul of the nation, touching every nook and cranny, from its grand cities to its serene and spiritual places, while also giving viewers a genuine insight into the lives and traditions of its people. Lumley's beaming enthusiasm for exploration and learning, combined with her infectious charm and humour, make this a both enlightening and entertaining viewing experience.

In the opening episode, Lumley embarks on her 2000-mile journey in Hokkaido, Japan's second-largest island, best known for its volcanic hot springs and phenomenal skiing locations. Moving quickly, the series dives headfirst into Japanese culture as Lumley shares enchanting stories of the indigenous Ainu people and their struggle to maintain their traditions amidst Japan’s rapidly modernizing society.

The series then glides south to Tokyo, the sprawling metropolis, providing a jaw-dropping comparison of Japan's natural beauty against its spellbinding urban sprawl, which seems to reach to the heavens. Tokyo's sheer size and never-ending cityscape do not overwhelm Lumley; she navigates the city with the same vibrant curiosity and admiration as the country’s rural landscapes.

As the series unfolds, the viewers indulge in moments of tranquillity and peace. From the sacred temples and shrines of Kyoto, with its embodiment of traditional Japan, to the peaceful bamboo groves of Ise-Shima, renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and pearl divers. Lumley doesn't fail to pull back the layers of the historical city of Hiroshima and sheds light on its recovery and the resilience of its people.

Joanna’s journey also delves deep into Japanese customs, showcasing moments such as the 1,300-year-old festival in Kyoto, tea ceremonies, a traditional Japanese wedding, Sumo wrestling, the art of sushi making, and ancient Zen Buddhism. These traditions give a flavour of the deep-rooted culture that Japan proudly maintains despite its advanced technological standing in the world.

Subsequently, Lumley dives deep into the heartland of Honshu, where she gets an intimate insight into Japan's iconic geisha culture, meets a former railways cleaner who has risen to become an international rock star, and investigates the poignant history and rebuilding of the only Japanese town totally destroyed by the 2011 Tsunami.

The final leg of her journey takes her to the tropical Japanese islands of Shikoku and Kyushu, where she visits one of Japan's oldest and most significant Buddhist temples and takes a dip in the therapeutic hot sand baths of Ibusuki.

The series is not only a study of Japan’s cultural and geographical landscapes but also its heart. Through her interactions with the people of Japan, Lumley unveils stories of strength, resilience, spirituality, tradition, and innovation that take this travelogue series beyond mere sightseeing. The production value of Joanna Lumley's Japan is high, with stunning cinematography showcasing Japan's scenic beauty in rich detail.

Throughout Joanna Lumley’s Japan, Lumley's distinctive charisma and genuine interest in Japanese culture shine through, making this series a delight for viewers. Whether you have been to Japan, are planning a trip, or are a fan of travel programs, Joanna Lumley’s Japan is recommended for those intrigued by this unique nation as it unveils the real entity beneath the familiar clichés and stereotypes of Japan, taking viewers on a breathtaking journey through an endearing kaleidoscope of its past, present, and future. Even if you're just a fan of Lumley herself, her gleeful immersion into Japanese culture will undoubtedly infuse viewers with a deep admiration for the actress and her journey.