Culture Crossroads

NHK WORLD-JAPAN's Myanmar service receives hundreds of messages every month. Each one conveys affection for Japan and an interest in various aspects of the country. In this episode, Win Morisaki, an actor from Myanmar, introduces connections between the 2 societies that may not be widely known but run deep.

Listeners who get in touch with NHK WORLD-JAPAN's Indonesian service often want to know about Muslim lifestyles in Japan. Reporter Sri Lestari provides answers. She introduces some of the many initiatives that allow Indonesians of that faith to make close connections in Japan.

Model Maya Kazi presents Kanda Jimbocho, a double-sided town of old books and curry. As she visits old bookstores, Maya introduces her father's upbringing along with a brief history of Bangladesh. She finds a photo book of Rabindranath Tagore there. Having a father who was a great curry chef at home, Maya also explores the various local curry restaurants to seek her comfort food. Kanda Jimbocho was a place for Maya to connect to both her Japanese and Bangladeshi background.

Foot races are reaching new peaks of popularity in Thailand. So, it's no surprise that people there would like to know about running in Japan too. Sutthiporn Bunchuay, from NHK WORLD-JAPAN's Thai service, introduces a popular race as well as high-tech Japanese shoes.