From the nifty wrapping of convenience store rice balls to intricate cardboard packing, the Japanese have a knack for cleverly packaging just about anything. Both packaging and content receive equal care, revealing important aspects of the Japanese character. This time we peel away Japan's wrapping and packaging to examine the techniques and motivations concealed within. Our expert guest is Shinichi Minakuchi, a veteran of the food-packaging industry. And in Plus One, wrapping with a furoshiki!

This time, we present an installment of our special Japanophiles series, which features lively interviews with foreigners living in Japan. Historically, most Japanese houses have been made of wood. But housebuilding has become more mechanized, and traditional carpentry skills are in decline. One man carrying on that ancient legacy is a Canadian named Adam Zgola. From selecting the lumber to cutting and assembling it, Zgola works as a lead carpenter, handling every step with care and precision.