The Tango district in northern Kyoto Pref. is Japan's largest producer of a supple fabric, supplying 60% of the kimono industry. The elegantly crimped texture makes it easy to dye. But with the proliferation of Western clothing, production has dropped to as far as 3% of the industry's heyday. The pandemic was an additional blow. Young artisans are exploring new materials to capture the world. Discover how this 300-year-old textile evolved and its ties with the ancient capital.

In Kyoto, traditional cooking stoves affectionately called Okudo-san were once the heart of the household and the focus of belief in the deity of fire. With the proliferation of electric rice cookers, the stoves began to disappear from use. Recently more people are forgoing convenience and learning the benefits of cooking on an open flame. Some still use their ancestors' stoves in their businesses. Discover how people are reevaluating their lifestyles during the pandemic through their Okudo-san.