When October arrives in the highlands of Nagano and Gifu, the Japanese Alps undergo their most spectacular seasonal transformation. From the golden larches of Kamikōchi to the blazing maples of Hida, follow the koyo front as it descends through the mountains, turning the forests every shade of red, orange, and gold.

In the breweries of Nada, Kobe's legendary sake district, a small number of master brewers still practise their craft according to traditions unchanged for three centuries. Meet Yamamoto Shigeru, a 74-year-old toji whose family has shaped the same brewery's character for four generations — and who believes the best sake has nothing to do with rice.

In the Echizen region of Fukui Prefecture, a living tradition of urushi lacquerware stretches back fifteen hundred years. Join a master lacquer artist in their workshop to understand the extraordinary patience, seasonal sensitivity, and layered craftsmanship behind every gleaming bowl, tray, and cup that carries the deep, unmistakable beauty of true Japanese lacquer.