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NHK Documentary (1999)
Season 21 • Episode 4 • Tokyo's Lost Islands: Sofugan
NHK Documentary Season 21, Episode 4: Tokyo's Lost Islands: Sofugan
In Tokyo, there are unapproachable "lost islands" where unspoiled environs cradle rich wildlife. Sofugan is a 100-meter-high solitary rock pillar standing in the ocean 650km south of the capital city's center. Remote and difficult to access, it had never been explored in detail. A group of scientists and engineers set out on a two-year survey. This program records their journey, along with the creatures they discover - from unusual species amongst the rugged rocks to mysterious marine life in the surrounding deep sea. Watch NHK Documentary Season 21, Episode 4 Tokyo's Lost Islands: Sofugan in HD free online. Enjoy high-quality streaming of NHK Documentary Season 21, Episode 4 and share your thoughts in the comments below!
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Episodes
26 episodesOrcas: Mysterious Gathering at Shiretoko
Orcas are huge and powerful. That's why they're called the Kings of the Sea. But not a lot is known about the habits of orcas in the waters off Hokkaido Prefecture's Shiretoko Peninsula. Here they gather in great numbers and engage in a puzzling display, arraying themselves in straight lines. Using drones, underwater sound equipment, satellite transmitters, and other tools, marine researchers and NHK undertake an in-depth investigation over 2 years. They learn that the nutrient-rich waters off the coast of Shiretoko make the area a magnet for orcas. And the key to their mysterious behavior might be found in their highly developed social intelligence and strong family ties.
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The Choshi River: Seeing the Unseeable
In Japan, many rivers are known for their clear, beautiful water. But the Choshi River is so free of dirt and sediment that you can "see the unseeable." Creatures and plants far below the surface that would not be visible in other rivers can easily be viewed. What's the secret behind the Choshi's amazing clarity? Join us as we explore the geology and ecology of this remarkable river.
50 min
Tokyo's Lost Islands: Minami Iwo-to
In Tokyo, there are unapproachable "lost islands" with unspoiled environs and rich wildlife. Minami Iwo-to, part of the Ogasawara island chain, is about 1,300km from the Japanese capital. Normally, entry is banned to protect the environment. An exception was made in 2017 for the first comprehensive scientific survey in 10 years. The island compresses multiple climate zones into a small area, offering researchers a rare opportunity to view evolution in action. Braving an arduous climb and a swarm of seabirds, the team discovers one new species after another.
50 min
Tokyo's Lost Islands: Sofugan
In Tokyo, there are unapproachable "lost islands" where unspoiled environs cradle rich wildlife. Sofugan is a 100-meter-high solitary rock pillar standing in the ocean 650km south of the capital city's center. Remote and difficult to access, it had never been explored in detail. A group of scientists and engineers set out on a two-year survey. This program records their journey, along with the creatures they discover - from unusual species amongst the rugged rocks to mysterious marine life in the surrounding deep sea.
50 min
Rescue Triage: Learning from Disasters
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Black Tsunami
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Aurá: Last Survivor of An Unknown Tribe
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49 min
Decommissioning Fukushima Daiichi: Tackling Nuclear Fuel Debris
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50 min
Nobel Laureate Salaryman: Staying Ahead in Science and Technology
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Yui and Bailey the Therapy Dog
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New Roles in a Changing World: The Japan Self-Defense Forces
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50 min
AI Robots: Friend or Foe?
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50 min
US-China Tech War
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50 min
From Despair to Recovery: The Era of Regenerative Medicine
NHK's 3-year investigation into regenerative medicine treatment followed 2 patients suffering severe paralysis. In this treatment, a patient's own stem cells are cultured in great numbers before being returned to the body to begin the healing process. Both patients have shown amazing improvement, with one even driving again. The public health insurance system has taken notice, offering coverage. A ray of hope now shines through despair's dark clouds; the era of regenerative medicine is here.
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In 2018, western Japan was hit with its worst rain-related disaster in 30 years. Researchers have determined that it was the result of global warming, and a taste of future disasters to come. They're looking into the factors that led some people to evacuate to safety while others perished in their homes. And they've determined that the best way for people to survive in a future of violent weather might be to depend less on the government and more on themselves.
50 min
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The questions are simple yet profound. Would you prefer control over the manner of your death? Could you accept a wish for physician-assisted death on the part of a loved one? NHK was granted permission to follow 2 patients and their families as they grapple with the debilitating stages of incurable illness. Emotions run loose as all involved must confront the inevitable in their own way. Yet the very different outcomes specifically chosen by the patients focus as much on life as about a right to the end.
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Death of a Dream: Vietnamese Workers in Japan
The Japanese government's Technical Intern Training Program, a solution to the country's severe labor shortage, is making it easier for people from other Asian countries to work in Japan. Some 1.46 million people from abroad are now working in Japan, many dreaming of a better life. But harsh working conditions, long hours, and even wage theft lead many to quit their jobs or even commit suicide. And they are often exploited by schools that charge high tuition but fail to provide an education. We explore the reasons behind this harsh trend and meet the Vietnamese monk who's trying to reverse it.
50 min
Han-gure: An Emerging Threat to Society
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50 min
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50 min
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50 min
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50 min
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The Shosoin treasures were created by leading artisans 1,300 years ago. Historians long believed these treasures were brought to Japan along the Silk Road from countries as distant as Persia or ancient China. But research now shows that we need to revise our ideas about the origin of many of them. Behind these treasures lay Emperor Shomu's bold strategy of using them in his plans to reform Japan. We take a look at how these exquisite objects played a vital role in the formation of the country.
50 min