Hiroshima is home to two World Heritage Sites, the Atomic Bomb Dome and Miyajima Island. Other buildings of architectural significance can be found in, and around, the city. Tokyo-based architect James Lambiasi explores the history of Hiroshima-and the nearby areas of Onomichi and Iwakuni-through iconic architectural sites, as well as simple, old dwellings.

Nikko, which is a leading tourist destination in Japan, has long been venerated as a sacred place of mountain worship. It is home to the mausoleum of Tokugawa Ieyasu, who unified Japan and founded the Tokugawa Shogunate in the beginning of the 17th century. In the mid-19th century, after a period of isolation, Japan resumed international relations. Nikko soon became one of the most sought after summer playgrounds for Westerners due to its abundant nature and cool climate. On this edition of Journeys in Japan we explore architectural jewels that quietly reveal Nikko's history, including the Nikko Toshogu Shrine where Tokugawa Ieyasu is enshrined, former villas of foreign embassies, and a classic hotel.

Okinawa, Japan's southernmost prefecture, has developed a distinct architecture all its own, reflecting its subtropical setting and often harsh climate, as well as historical influences from mainland Japan and other countries, such as China and the United States. On this edition of Journeys in Japan, American architect James Lambiasi visits some of Okinawa's most notable buildings. He meets the local people and discovers the complex history that underlies its enduring culture.

Osaka is the largest city in western Japan. The 16th-century warlord Toyotomi Hideyoshi, who unified Japan after a long period of civil war, chose it as his power base and built a castle there to serve as the power base for his clan. In the years that followed, Osaka became a major logistical and economic hub. From the mid-19th century, Osaka rode the wave of Japan's modernization and the city expanded rapidly. The development of its spinning industry brought prosperity. During this period it was known as "Great Osaka" and saw the construction of many handsome commercial buildings, several of which survive to this day. From the late 1940's, the city was a driving force for Japan's postwar reconstruction and rapid economic growth. In 1970 it became the first city in Asia to host a world's fair, known as Expo '70. On this episode of Journeys in Japan, American architect James Lambiasi visits Osaka and explores its history and culture, as reflected in its impressive architecture.

Kagawa Prefecture is the smallest of the 47 prefectures of Japan in area. It puts emphasis on the promotion of architecture and art as a main pillar of its regional development. The prefectural commitment began during the post-war era in the mid-1900's when the then governor devised an individual policy to rebuild the prefecture's capital city, Takamatsu. Takamatsu City had been reduced to ruins because of repeated air bombings during World War II. The governor launched a huge project of constructing a new building for the prefectural government office that would serve as a symbol of not only post-war reconstruction but also democracy. The spirit of the governor has lived on to date across the prefecture. On this episode of Journeys in Japan, we introduce several architectures that represent Kagawa, and explore the history and culture of the prefecture that has chosen to follow its own path.

Nagoya is in Aichi Prefecture in central Japan. While it is sometimes compared unfavorably to Tokyo, Kyoto Prefecture and Osaka Prefecture, there is more to the city than meets the eye. It's a fascinating place steeped in history. From the ancient Atsuta Jingu, a shrine with deep ties to the Imperial Family, to contemporary buildings we explore renowned architecture old and new to reflect on the culture of Nagoya.

On Journeys in Japan, we've discovered the history and culture of many places through their architecture. On this episode, we revisit Nikko, Okinawa Prefecture and Osaka Prefecture, to take a close look at significant buildings and how they connect with the people.

On this episode, we look back at our architecture features and pick up some wondrous, inspiring shapes and their place in the landscape. In Hiroshima Prefecture, the Itsukushima Shrine literally sits on the ocean. In Kagawa Prefecture, an island dedicates itself to art and architecture. And in Nagoya, a merchant's residence, which inspired a world-renowned architect, has been preserved. Let's unravel their secrets.

Himeji Castle is the finest surviving example of early 17th-century castle architecture in Japan, with its main keep intact for 4 hundred years. For its soaring elegance and color, it is fondly called the White Heron Castle. On this episode of Journeys in Japan, we introduce not only the beauty and history of Himeji Castle, but also the culture and tradition of the town surrounding it.

Kumamoto Castle was built by the feudal lord Kato Kiyomasa. The construction began in the late 16th century and was completed in the 17th century. Designated as a National Special Historic Site, it is also known as Ginnan Castle (ginkgo castle) because of a great ginkgo tree near the main tower. On this episode of Journeys in Japan, James Lambiasi explores the legacy of the sprawling castle, meeting local people and learning about the reconstruction efforts after the 2016 Kumamoto Earthquake.

Tsuruga Castle in the city of Aizuwakamatsu (Fukushima Prefecture) played a decisive role in Japan's transition from the feudal samurai era to a modern society. This time on Journeys in Japan, architect James Lambiasi visits the castle and other remarkable sites, meeting local people for whom Aizu's history still remains alive in their hearts.

Yamagata Prefecture, some 300 kilometers north of Tokyo, is a mountainous region. Around 70% of its land covered by forests and to this day it boasts a long tradition of using that wood in its buildings. On this episode of Journeys in Japan, American architect James Lambiasi visits a hot spring resort where the main street is lined with hotels built from timber; an ancient Buddhist temple where you can find wooden buildings standing on top of sheer cliffs; and a splendid row of wooden warehouses constructed 130 years ago and still in pristine condition. James also observes a construction company that has developed cutting-edge technology for using timber in large-scale contemporary architecture. He is given a hands-on demonstration of how the forests are maintained, and he meets an outdoors guide who shows the way he lives in the backwoods.

Sapporo is known for its rich architectural heritage, a symbol of its place as Hokkaido's hub of politics, economy, and culture from the 19th century. Architect James Liambasi visits a dairy farming research site with American design influences, a red-brick beer brewery, and Hokkaido's first TV tower. This time on Journeys in Japan, we glimpse this fascinating city through its architecture.