We at Kogei Art Kyoto were thrilled to see the success of the TV series SHOGUN, distributed on Disney+ last year. This fascinating drama, set in feudal Japan, was particularly popular in the US and won several prestigious awards, including an Emmy and a Golden Globe.
What sets “SHOGUN” apart from other productions and makes it highly regarded? We believe it is the thorough commitment to the authenticity of the lead actor and co-producer, Hiroyuki Sanada. As a veteran actor in Hollywood, Sanada had the vision to create an “authentic samurai production.”
He
- Created a comprehensive 900-page manual detailing Japanese culture and history for the production team to realize this vision. This meticulous resource ensured that every aspect of the series was portrayed accurately and respectfully, from the intricacies of samurai etiquette to the nuances of social customs.
- Japanese experts were invited to the set in every aspect of the production. From costume and prop design to set construction and even acting techniques, Sanada insisted that Japanese experts oversee the process to ensure an accurate representation of the period.
- He provided continuous guidance on the set. Not only as the lead actor, Mr. Sanada was always present on the set, providing his expertise and ensuring the historical and cultural accuracy of the production.
This commitment to authenticity certainly resonated with audiences around the world. SHOGUN entertained a large audience and was a powerful introduction to Japanese culture and history. The drama sparked a renewed interest in Japan, its traditions, and its arts.
At Kogei Art Kyoto, an EC that sells Kyoto Kogei artworks, we are pleased to see this growing interest in Japanese culture. SHOGUN has opened a window to Japan’s beauty and richness, and we hope it will inspire many people to explore it further.
We promise to continue our mission of sharing Kyoto’s wonderful artistic heritage with the world. Just as SHOGUN has become a bridge between East and West, we will strive to become a bridge between cultures through the timeless beauty of Japanese kogei. We hope you will look at our collection and feel the Japanese spirit in each piece.
We hope “SHOGUN” will catalyze you to visit Kyoto and experience its cultural heritage first-hand.
