Azuki beans are often sweetened, simmered and used in Japanese sweets. Their red color is said to ward off evil, and they're key at celebrations too. We visit an area in Hyogo Prefecture known for growing high-quality Azuki, and learn how artisans in Kyoto Prefecture put their skills to work making beautiful sweets that incorporate the beans. Learn all about Azuki beans, grown, eaten and beloved for over 5,000 years in Japan. (Reporter: Saskia Thoelen)

京都の和菓子職人の技“美しさ”と“美味しさ”の秘密▽庶民的な甘味の代表格“鯛焼き”▽高級小豆“丹波大納言”…通常のもの（普通小豆）より一回り大きい▽“丹波大納言”の産地・兵庫県丹波市　農家のこだわりと工夫▽京都で生まれ育ったシェフが、慣れ親しんだ食材“丹波大納言”でイタリアンの技術を駆使して創作料理。