Through the ages, bamboo has been profoundly important to Japan's industry, culture and everyday life. But why does bamboo grow so quick, and when does it flower? A great deal about these familiar plants is not yet fully understood. This time on Japanology Plus, we'll explore bamboo's mysterious life cycle and see just how precious it is to the people of Japan. Our expert guest is Shozo Shibata, a professor of bamboo ecology at Kyoto University. And in Plus One, traditional bamboo toys!

Tokyo's Tsukiji Market is the world's largest fish market - hundreds of kinds of seafood from around the world are sold there. 40,000 people work at Tsukiji each day, and hordes of foreign tourists come to check out the vast, buzzing hive of activity. This time on Japanology Plus, we explore the customs and commerce of Tsukiji Market. Our guest is Masataka Fujiwara, a seafood expert who's been visiting Tsukiji regularly for more than 30 years. And in Plus One, Tsukiji etiquette for visitors.