Abstract:

"Viewers see modern Japanese culture through the eyes of 11-year-old Makoto as he writes a visual 'letter' to his American pen pal. He attends day school, prepares for his junior high school exams in evening school, visits his grandparents, and prays for good luck at a temple. His family is introduced as are many Japanese customs and vocabulary words. Other topics include the tea ceremony, the playing of the koto, calligraphy, shopping, and sites throughout downtown Tokyo. Discussion of Japan's geography, climate, agriculture, and influence of Western society is also included. Disney Educational Productions."