Abstract:

While many of the ancient Asian capitals have faded into the pages of history books, a rare few have continued to grow and flourish. This beautiful series produced by NHK takes viewers to four such capitals—Beijing, Varanasi, Jogjakarta, and Kathmandu—and discovers one key aspect of the cultural, religious, and political life of the city and its people. Combining computer graphics and archival research, each of the programs serves as a unique window on the continuities and changes in an Asian society. 4-part series, 52 minutes each.