Main content
This programme will be available shortly after broadcast

Kagoshima to Chiran

Michael starts a journey in and around Japan's southernmost main island, Kyushu. He begins in Kagoshima, an extraordinary city which sits in the shadow of Japan’s most active volcano, Sakurajima.

Michael begins a journey in and around Kyushu, the southernmost of Japan’s four main islands, and southern Honshu. He begins his exploration in Kagoshima, an extraordinary city which sits in the shadow of Japan’s most active volcano, Sakurajima.

In the Sakurajima International Volcano Centre Michael discovers how scientists use the latest technology to predict and warn of future volcano eruptions. He rides one of Japan’s quirky themed express trains to Ibusuki, a coastal town where he goes sand bathing.

Inland is Chiran, the site of a former World War II airbase and now the Chiran Peace Museum. Michael learns of 439 young pilots who flew from Chiran to their deaths in the notorious kamikaze missions of the Pacific War.

Release date:

29 minutes

Credits

RoleContributor
PresenterMichael Portillo
DirectorDave Minchin
Executive ProducerJohn Comerford
Executive ProducerAlison Kreps
Production CompanyFremantle

Broadcast