Core Kyoto

Miyama is renowned for its traditional roof‑thatched houses, a craft that defines the area’s cultural heritage. In the nearby town of Hanase, locals continue to serve a local specialty cuisine prepared from rich seasonal foraged wild foods, reflecting the region’s natural bounty.

The episode centres on Miyama, a locale celebrated for its long‑standing roof‑thatching tradition. It presents the town as a place where this particular craft has become a defining characteristic, drawing attention to the skill and heritage associated with that form of construction. Viewers are introduced to the cultural backdrop that makes Miyama noteworthy within the series. Alongside the architectural focus, the programme turns to the neighbouring settlement of Hanase, which maintains its own culinary reputation. The town continues to prepare and serve its local speciality, a cuisine centred on foraged wild foods. This segment highlights how Hanase’s menu is rooted in the natural bounty of the surrounding environment, offering dishes that rely on ingredients gathered from the wild. The episode therefore juxtaposes two distinct yet complementary traditions: Miyama’s roof‑thatching expertise and Hanase’s foraged‑food gastronomy. By showcasing both, the programme underscores the persistence of local practices that have been handed down through generations. It provides a snapshot of how these communities sustain their cultural identities through craft and cuisine, keeping their respective customs alive for residents and visitors alike. Overall, the episode paints a picture of two neighbouring locales where age‑old practices remain integral to daily life. Miyama’s thatched roofs and Hanase’s wild‑foraged fare together illustrate a living heritage that persists in contemporary Japan.