Dive in Tokyo - Season 4 / Year 2025

Nihonbashi is a district in downtown Tokyo centered on a historic bridge of the same name. We trace its development into a thriving hub of commerce whose mercantile spirit lives on today.

Home to manga, anime and toy stores, the Nakano neighborhood is famous for its subculture spirit. As we explore, we discover its rich past as a dog sanctuary, blossom-viewing spot and military hub.

The Setagaya Line is a small but central streetcar line in Setagaya Ward. Join us as we explore a 450-year-old flea market, visit a temple brimming with cats and meet members of the community.

The Marunouchi district has repeatedly reinvented itself through large-scale development projects. We trace its evolution from a samurai quarter to an office district to a sophisticated business hub.

Join us as we explore the Haneda district, best known for its airport. As we trace its history, we learn about its past as a fishing community and tourist destination famous for its ocean views.

We visit Hamura in the upper reaches of the Tama River. In this tranquil town far west of the city center we trace the origins of Tokyo's water supply back to the age of the samurai, centuries ago.

Hino in western Tokyo is known for irrigation canals and its past as a rice cultivating center during the Edo period. The fertile lands gave rise to the men who would form the legendary Shinsengumi.

Komagome is the birthplace of Somei-yoshino, the most popular cherry blossom variety in Japan. We visit a scenic garden, meet locals who cultivate cherry tree saplings, and explore shopping streets.

Tateishi is a riverside neighborhood in eastern Tokyo that developed as a center of manufacturing. We learn about the local dyeing and toy industries and explore an old-fashioned shopping arcade.

The Yoyogi area is sandwiched between bustling Shinjuku and Shibuya. We explore a sacred forest, a friendly shopping street, and more, finding ideas for sustainable urban living along the way.

The island of Hachijojima is a tourist destination that once served as a penal colony. We learn how the elements and the arrival of exiles and castaways helped shape unique industries and culture.

The popular Ebisu district developed alongside a brewery and even derives its name from beer. We trace the area's evolution, soak up its old-fashioned charm, and see what makes the community tick.