Japan: Memoirs of a Secret Empire

2004-05-26 Documentary TV-PG

Commanding shoguns and samurai warriors, exotic geisha and exquisite artisans—all were part of the Japanese “renaissance”; a period between the 16th and 19th Centuries when Japan went from chaos and violence to a land of ritual refinement and peace. But stability came at a price: for nearly 250 years, Japan was a land closed to the Western world, ruled by the Shogun under his absolute power and control. Japan: Memoirs of a Secret Empire brings to life the unknown story of a mysterious empire, its relationship with the West, and the forging of a nation that would emerge as one of the most important countries in the world.

Storyline

First Aired

2004-05-26
Last Aired

2004-05-26
Creator

Deborah Ann DeSnoo
Genre

Documentary, War & Politics
Seasons

1
Episodes

3
Status

Ended
Language

English
Network

PBS

Keywords:

japan samurai arts and culture shogun tokugawa shogunate

Stream and watch Japan: Memoirs of a Secret Empire

Season 1

1. The Way of the Samurai

Tokugawa Ieyasu unifies Japan and establishes a dynasty that will rule Japan for over 250 years.

Tokugawa Ieyasu unifies Japan and establishes a dynasty that will rule Japan for over 250 years.Less

56mins 2004-05-26

2. The Will of the Shogun

The grandson of Ieyasu, Tokugawa Iemitsu, tightens control over Japan's warlords and expels all foreig...More

The grandson of Ieyasu, Tokugawa Iemitsu, tightens control over Japan's warlords and expels all foreigners.Less

56mins 2004-05-26

3. The Return of the Barbarians

Isolated from the West, 18th century Edo flourishes culturally and economically, becoming one of the l...More

Isolated from the West, 18th century Edo flourishes culturally and economically, becoming one of the liveliest cities in the world. But foreign forces are coming.Less