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0:00:03 > 0:00:05- I'm Steffan Rhodri.
0:00:05 > 0:00:08- Travelling has always given me - great pleasure.
0:00:09 > 0:00:14- The thrill of going somewhere new - on an adventure still excites me.
0:00:16 > 0:00:20- But wherever I go, I always search - for a little reminder of Wales.
0:00:22 > 0:00:25- In this series, I discover - how our home-grown produce...
0:00:25 > 0:00:28- ..influences foreign cultures.
0:00:28 > 0:00:31- Japan is an intriguing country.
0:00:31 > 0:00:33- Land of sushi, kimonos...
0:00:34 > 0:00:37- ..karaoke, sumo wrestling - and kabuki theatre.
0:00:37 > 0:00:39- In this programme...
0:00:39 > 0:00:45- ..I follow traditional Welsh flannel - 6,000 miles eastwards.
0:00:45 > 0:00:49- I help to make marmalade - that sells for a fortune...
0:00:49 > 0:00:52- ..and witness - the christening of a tree.
0:00:52 > 0:00:56- This is the story - of Welsh produce making its mark...
0:00:56 > 0:00:59- ..on one of the world's - most prominent countries.
0:01:13 > 0:01:17- It's 6.30am and it's still dark.
0:01:17 > 0:01:20- I only live around the corner...
0:01:20 > 0:01:24- ..yet I never realized - this place even existed.
0:01:24 > 0:01:27- This is Cardiff's - Bessemer Road market...
0:01:27 > 0:01:31- ..where people come - from all over South Wales...
0:01:31 > 0:01:33- ..to buy wholesale fruit and veg.
0:01:33 > 0:01:38- Among them is someone from Boncath - who makes a lot of jam.
0:01:42 > 0:01:47- Having collected her fruit, herbs - and vegetables from the market...
0:01:47 > 0:01:51- ..Wendy Brandon takes them - to her kitchen in Boncath...
0:01:51 > 0:01:54- ..where she turns them - into home-made produce.
0:01:54 > 0:01:59- They're then distributed around - Britain and the rest of the world.
0:01:59 > 0:02:03- Like many large and small - Welsh companies...
0:02:03 > 0:02:07- ..she's looking beyond Wales - to broaden her horizons.
0:02:21 > 0:02:26- Wendy began making jam and preserves - using family recipes...
0:02:26 > 0:02:30- ..when she gave up teaching - almost 30 years ago.
0:02:31 > 0:02:36- In order to expand her business, - she moved to Boncath from Brighton.
0:02:36 > 0:02:41- She now produces - over 200 different jams...
0:02:41 > 0:02:45- ..pickles, preserves, - chutneys and marmalade.
0:02:45 > 0:02:50- It sounds like an ideal place - for a cooking enthusiast.
0:02:50 > 0:02:52- KNOCK ON DOOR
0:02:54 > 0:02:55- Hello. How are you?
0:02:55 > 0:02:57- Hello. How are you?- - I've brought oranges.
0:02:57 > 0:03:00- Only three women - work in Wendy's kitchen.
0:03:00 > 0:03:03- Today, I'm helping Mair and Delyth - make marmalade...
0:03:04 > 0:03:07- ..that will end up - in an exclusive shop in Japan.
0:03:07 > 0:03:08- Do I have to weigh them?
0:03:08 > 0:03:10- Do I have to weigh them?- - Yes, weigh them first.
0:03:10 > 0:03:15- Mair has worked here since the 1990s - and is a real character.
0:03:16 > 0:03:18- A pound and a half of those, please.
0:03:18 > 0:03:21- Right, OK. A kilo and a half?
0:03:21 > 0:03:23- A kilo and a half. - It's close enough.
0:03:25 > 0:03:29- What's important - is that it's all made by hand.
0:03:29 > 0:03:31- Yes, we make it all by hand.
0:03:31 > 0:03:36- From start to finish. - You'll see as we go along.
0:03:36 > 0:03:40- You get the quality - because it's not made in a factory.
0:03:40 > 0:03:42- It's home-made jam and marmalade.
0:03:43 > 0:03:46- It's just as you'd make it at home.
0:03:46 > 0:03:50- What are you favourite jams - and marmalades, Mair?
0:03:50 > 0:03:52- I prefer jam.
0:03:52 > 0:03:57- My favourites are rhubarb - and blackcurrant.
0:03:57 > 0:04:02- Do you have any say - in what goes into the recipes?
0:04:02 > 0:04:04- Or is it up to Wendy?
0:04:04 > 0:04:09- Every recipe she makes, - including new ones...
0:04:10 > 0:04:14- ..all the girls have to try it, - as well as Wendy and Ian.
0:04:14 > 0:04:16- We all have our own opinions.
0:04:19 > 0:04:24- The company's first customers - were London hotel chefs.
0:04:24 > 0:04:28- As they moved jobs, word spread - about this Welsh produce.
0:04:29 > 0:04:32- The chefs now ask - for special recipes...
0:04:32 > 0:04:36- ..which means Wendy - must experiment with new flavours.
0:04:37 > 0:04:40- The produce then finds its way - to the catalogue and the shop.
0:04:40 > 0:04:43- But it's not only hotels - that order the jams.
0:04:44 > 0:04:47- They also supplied - an awards party in Hollywood.
0:04:47 > 0:04:48- Those are the secret ingredients?
0:04:48 > 0:04:49- Those are the secret ingredients?- - Yes.
0:04:52 > 0:04:57- As the marmalade cooks on the stove, - it's time for a cuppa.
0:04:57 > 0:05:02- I notice this catalogue opens the - wrong way because it's from Japan.
0:05:02 > 0:05:04- Yes, that's how they are.
0:05:04 > 0:05:08- There are some interesting - photographs here of you, Mair.
0:05:09 > 0:05:10- You had some Japanese visitors.
0:05:10 > 0:05:13- You had some Japanese visitors.- - Yes, Wendy went out to Japan....
0:05:14 > 0:05:16- ..to promote our produce.
0:05:17 > 0:05:22- Some people she spoke to told her - they used a bakestone for cooking.
0:05:22 > 0:05:26- I'd call it a griddle.
0:05:26 > 0:05:28- Every region - has its own name for it.
0:05:29 > 0:05:34- I can see you made a big batch - of Welsh cakes and used the jam...
0:05:34 > 0:05:38- You must have the best jam - to go with the best Welsh cakes.
0:05:43 > 0:05:47- The labelling is the final process. - Show me what to do.
0:05:47 > 0:05:52- You have to do it with care because - the Japanese are very precise.
0:05:52 > 0:05:57- We're also precise, - and maintain our own high standards.
0:05:57 > 0:06:02- How do you feel, knowing that - marmalade you made in Boncath...
0:06:02 > 0:06:04- ..ends up in a shop in Japan?
0:06:04 > 0:06:06- ..ends up in a shop in Japan?- - It's strange, really.
0:06:06 > 0:06:10- It's hard to believe that it travels - from a small kitchen in Wales...
0:06:10 > 0:06:12- ..all the way out there.
0:06:12 > 0:06:14- It's hard to believe.
0:06:14 > 0:06:18- But this isn't - the only company in West Wales...
0:06:18 > 0:06:20- ..with its sights set on Japan.
0:06:40 > 0:06:43- What could be more Welsh - than a Welsh blanket...
0:06:43 > 0:06:47- ..woven using traditional methods - in a rural mill?
0:06:47 > 0:06:53- Wales has produced woollen blankets - and cloth for centuries...
0:06:54 > 0:06:57- ..but one West Wales company - has survived...
0:06:57 > 0:07:00- ..by modernizing - and expanding its market.
0:07:00 > 0:07:04- It now exports its produce - all over the world.
0:07:10 > 0:07:13- This place is very striking, Eifion.
0:07:13 > 0:07:16- Your family has been here - for almost a century.
0:07:17 > 0:07:19- Tell us a little - about the mill's history.
0:07:20 > 0:07:25- My grandfather came here in 1912...
0:07:26 > 0:07:29- ..with his new wife - and a horse and cart.
0:07:29 > 0:07:32- He bought it for 700.
0:07:36 > 0:07:40- A century ago, the mill - took wool from local sheep...
0:07:40 > 0:07:44- ..spun it into yarn - and sold it for knitting purposes.
0:07:44 > 0:07:49- Flannel was also produced - to make clothes for coal miners...
0:07:49 > 0:07:51- ..steelworkers and the army.
0:07:51 > 0:07:57- Following WW2, the mill produced - traditional blankets and tweed.
0:07:58 > 0:08:03- Eifion's father dreamt up a new idea - to expand the business.
0:08:03 > 0:08:07- As a child, I remember visitors - coming to the house...
0:08:07 > 0:08:11- ..and thinking, - who are these people...
0:08:11 > 0:08:14- ..and what are they doing here?
0:08:14 > 0:08:17- Of course, they were customers.
0:08:17 > 0:08:21- You took over from your father - and expanded the business.
0:08:21 > 0:08:26- You created a signature style - that has become successful...
0:08:26 > 0:08:29- ..allowing you - to expand the market in general.
0:08:30 > 0:08:35- We identified a new market - and a design to suit that market.
0:08:35 > 0:08:39- People look for different things.
0:08:39 > 0:08:43- We tried to find customers...
0:08:44 > 0:08:48- ..who were interested in tradition - but also wanted a fresh approach.
0:08:52 > 0:08:56- The American market - was the first to flourish.
0:08:56 > 0:09:01- Melin Tregwynt has sold its wares - in the USA for over 30 years.
0:09:02 > 0:09:05- The company currently exports - to 15 countries.
0:09:05 > 0:09:08- One of the main markets is Japan.
0:09:09 > 0:09:13- The cloth and the traditional way - in which it's created...
0:09:14 > 0:09:17- ..is a selling point, - as is the company's history.
0:09:21 > 0:09:22- Who do we have here, Eifion?
0:09:23 > 0:09:26- This is my family, - going back to Tad-cu.
0:09:26 > 0:09:31- This is a picture of Mam - in the shop...
0:09:32 > 0:09:34- ..back in the 1970s or 1980s.
0:09:34 > 0:09:37- And that shop - was over in the old house?
0:09:38 > 0:09:38- Who's that little boy there?
0:09:38 > 0:09:41- Who's that little boy there?- - Me! The family outside the mill.
0:09:42 > 0:09:44- This is your father - and grandfather.
0:09:45 > 0:09:48- I can see the family resemblance.
0:09:48 > 0:09:52- It probably helps - with the company's marketing...
0:09:52 > 0:09:56- ..that you have photographs - like this to show people...
0:09:56 > 0:10:00- ..for them to know - that the mill has a long tradition.
0:10:00 > 0:10:02- It helps a lot.
0:10:02 > 0:10:08- One company in Japan - uses these photographs as branding.
0:10:08 > 0:10:11- They do it very well. - Better than we could do it.
0:10:13 > 0:10:18- When they put on a show, - they use these photographs.
0:10:18 > 0:10:21- There's something - about the Japanese.
0:10:21 > 0:10:26- They like the authentic history - attached to the company.
0:10:26 > 0:10:29- That helps a lot.
0:10:38 > 0:10:42- What's it like - doing business with the Japanese?
0:10:42 > 0:10:45- You have to go there.
0:10:45 > 0:10:47- They like doing business - face-to-face.
0:10:48 > 0:10:51- If you don't go there, you lose out.
0:10:51 > 0:10:54- It's also a chance for us to see...
0:10:54 > 0:10:57- ..how our things - are displayed in the shops.
0:10:58 > 0:10:58- And we enjoy it.
0:10:58 > 0:11:00- And we enjoy it.- - You mix business with pleasure.
0:11:01 > 0:11:02- We try to.
0:11:11 > 0:11:15- Melin Tregwynt has had to adapt - and modernize over the years...
0:11:15 > 0:11:17- ..to keep abreast with fashion.
0:11:18 > 0:11:23- They've done it without losing touch - with their roots and tradition.
0:11:23 > 0:11:29- It's that traditional Welshness - that has captivated global markets.
0:11:38 > 0:11:43- My journey takes me - from West Wales to Japan...
0:11:43 > 0:11:45- ..to see for myself...
0:11:45 > 0:11:49- ..how the Japanese have warmed - to unique Welsh produce.
0:11:49 > 0:11:54- It's my first visit to Japan, - and I'm very excited.
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0:12:01 > 0:12:06- I'm following Welsh produce - on its way to the Japanese markets.
0:12:07 > 0:12:10- All kinds of things - are exported nowadays.
0:12:10 > 0:12:13- It's a new experience for me...
0:12:13 > 0:12:17- ..to see my moustached self - on the in-flight entertainment.
0:12:17 > 0:12:19- WOMAN SPEAKS JAPANESE
0:12:23 > 0:12:25- Narita International Airport.
0:12:31 > 0:12:35- I've never been to Japan, - but the rain is familiar.
0:12:35 > 0:12:39- I'm travelling to Kyoto - from Narita airport.
0:12:46 > 0:12:49- Kyoto escaped - the destruction of WW2.
0:12:49 > 0:12:53- There's an ancient - and traditional feel to the place.
0:12:55 > 0:12:57- The city is incredibly striking.
0:12:57 > 0:13:03- It's home to 1,500 Buddhist temples - and 40 Shinto altars.
0:13:03 > 0:13:07- It's also the centre - of Japan's textile industry.
0:13:08 > 0:13:14- They have a weaving tradition - dating back over 1,000 years.
0:13:14 > 0:13:19- During the 17th century, - over 7,000 weavers worked here.
0:13:19 > 0:13:23- Silk is Japan's - traditional fabric...
0:13:23 > 0:13:26- ..as I discover - at the city's textile museum.
0:13:29 > 0:13:32- But Japan is open to new products.
0:13:32 > 0:13:37- This is where Melin Tregwynt - markets its woollen cloth.
0:13:44 > 0:13:46- Hello.
0:13:46 > 0:13:50- The company has been exporting - to Japan for six years...
0:13:50 > 0:13:54- ..and does business - with 15 Japanese companies.
0:13:55 > 0:13:59- What surprises me is that these - companies use the Welsh flannel...
0:14:00 > 0:14:05- ..to create new and unique products - for Japanese customers.
0:14:05 > 0:14:11- Kyoto clothing company Defco - has three outlets.
0:14:11 > 0:14:16- At Toolo, one of those shops, - I met Eifion and Mandy...
0:14:16 > 0:14:19- ..and their agent in Japan, Akira.
0:14:19 > 0:14:21- The grey was a light grey.
0:14:21 > 0:14:23- Yes.
0:14:23 > 0:14:26- I think that one may...
0:14:26 > 0:14:28- Our business back in Wales...
0:14:28 > 0:14:31- ..is more about home interiors.
0:14:31 > 0:14:33- Out here, at the moment...
0:14:33 > 0:14:37- ..the business is more - about clothing and fashion.
0:14:38 > 0:14:41- It's interesting for us - because it's a new venture.
0:14:45 > 0:14:47- Ah, now then.
0:14:47 > 0:14:49- Yes.
0:14:51 > 0:14:56- This corner of the shop has been - set aside for Melin Tregwynt.
0:14:56 > 0:14:58- A corner of Wales.
0:14:58 > 0:15:02- The patterns - are instantly recognizable.
0:15:02 > 0:15:06- Have they been designed - for the Japanese market...
0:15:06 > 0:15:08- ..or did they already exist?
0:15:08 > 0:15:10- They're old patterns.
0:15:10 > 0:15:14- Something about these designs - appeals to the Japanese.
0:15:15 > 0:15:18- Are the clothes - made here in Japan?
0:15:19 > 0:15:23- Or were they made in Wales - and exported here?
0:15:23 > 0:15:26- This top was made in Japan.
0:15:27 > 0:15:32- The dress was made in Wales - and exported to Japan.
0:15:33 > 0:15:36- Again, this top - was made in Japan...
0:15:39 > 0:15:41- ..from our fabric...
0:15:41 > 0:15:45- ..and the frock made back home - and exported to Japan.
0:15:47 > 0:15:50- We follow their design.
0:15:51 > 0:15:55- Japanese sizing is different - from the sizes we have in Wales.
0:15:56 > 0:16:00- What is it about this pattern - that appealed to the Japanese?
0:16:01 > 0:16:03- I'm not sure, to be honest.
0:16:04 > 0:16:07- Both countries have a tradition...
0:16:09 > 0:16:13- ..of using home-grown products.
0:16:14 > 0:16:18- Products that have a history - and a tradition attached to them.
0:16:18 > 0:16:22- It's traditional - but also still relevant today.
0:16:22 > 0:16:26- They remind me of the clothes...
0:16:26 > 0:16:31- ..that labourers would have worn - out in the fields.
0:16:31 > 0:16:36- In the paddy fields out here - or the wheat fields back home.
0:16:36 > 0:16:41- The two agricultural industries - complement each other.
0:16:41 > 0:16:45- Yes, I think - that's part of the appeal.
0:16:45 > 0:16:47- I love this.
0:16:48 > 0:16:48- Can I try it on?
0:16:48 > 0:16:50- Can I try it on?- - Of course.
0:16:51 > 0:16:54- It's much softer than you'd expect.
0:16:54 > 0:16:56- It's wool, but it's soft.
0:16:57 > 0:17:00- You'd worry - that it's going to be itchy.
0:17:00 > 0:17:03- No, it's not at all itchy.
0:17:03 > 0:17:04- Does it suit me?
0:17:04 > 0:17:06- Does it suit me?- - Yes. Do you want it?
0:17:06 > 0:17:08- It's yours for a song.
0:17:08 > 0:17:09- On a windy day.
0:17:09 > 0:17:11- On a windy day.- - On a windy day in Japan.
0:17:12 > 0:17:14- It looks great.
0:17:15 > 0:17:18- And so it should for 160!
0:17:19 > 0:17:23- Takaokaya is another company - they do business with.
0:17:23 > 0:17:27- They make traditional floor cushions - known as zabutons.
0:17:27 > 0:17:30- The unique shape of this zabuton...
0:17:30 > 0:17:34- ..is based on a Japanese toy - called an ojami.
0:17:40 > 0:17:46- Before finding out more about - this important soft furnishing...
0:17:46 > 0:17:51- ..I must first learn how to behave - when meeting people and socializing.
0:17:51 > 0:17:54- Punctuality is important here.
0:17:54 > 0:17:59- As well as the difficult language, - there are cultural differences...
0:17:59 > 0:18:03- ..such as the custom - of exchanging business cards.
0:18:03 > 0:18:08- It's also customary to remove shoes - when entering offices or homes.
0:18:08 > 0:18:11- You also have to learn - when and how often to bow.
0:18:19 > 0:18:21- HE SPEAKS JAPANESE
0:18:25 > 0:18:28- We start by cutting the cloth.
0:18:29 > 0:18:33- We mark the cloth - with a ruler and pencil.
0:18:34 > 0:18:37- The pieces of cloth - are then sewn together.
0:18:46 > 0:18:48- After the sewing process...
0:18:48 > 0:18:53- ..we stuff the cushion, bit by bit.
0:18:57 > 0:19:00- Life is changing - for the Japanese people.
0:19:00 > 0:19:03- We used to sit on tatami mats.
0:19:03 > 0:19:09- Nowadays, more people sit on chairs - rather than on the floor.
0:19:09 > 0:19:16- We use modern designs - instead of traditional ones.
0:19:16 > 0:19:22- We like Tregwynt's designs - because they're colourful and fun.
0:19:27 > 0:19:30- How would your grandfather feel...
0:19:30 > 0:19:35- ..having established Melin Tregwynt - a century ago...
0:19:35 > 0:19:41- ..seeing his woollen flannel, - which was woven in Pembrokeshire...
0:19:41 > 0:19:45- ..being used - on this factory floor in Kyoto?
0:19:46 > 0:19:49- If it makes money...
0:19:49 > 0:19:53- ..and keeps us all moving forward...
0:19:53 > 0:19:56- ..then I'm sure he'd be pleased.
0:20:10 > 0:20:16- I leave Japan's old capital - and head for the modern capital.
0:20:16 > 0:20:19- Tokyo has a population - of 13 million...
0:20:19 > 0:20:24- ..and it's one of the world's - three main business capitals...
0:20:24 > 0:20:27- ..along with New York and London.
0:20:32 > 0:20:36- It's hard to believe this was - a fishing village centuries ago.
0:20:37 > 0:20:40- Tokyo has developed greatly - over recent decades.
0:20:49 > 0:20:55- The city is unique because it has - been built around railway stations.
0:21:13 > 0:21:15- As a city, Tokyo works.
0:21:16 > 0:21:20- It may look complex and alien - to a westerner...
0:21:20 > 0:21:25- ..but the systems are simple - and the people helpful and polite.
0:21:25 > 0:21:30- If you can point, nod and smile - and trust people to help you...
0:21:30 > 0:21:33- ..then you'll be able - to find your way around.
0:21:50 > 0:21:54- The courtesy and discipline - of the Japanese is well-known.
0:21:54 > 0:21:58- But I've come to realize - that this self-discipline...
0:21:59 > 0:22:02- ..is something - in which they take great pride.
0:22:03 > 0:22:07- Nobody drops litter, not because - they're afraid of being fined...
0:22:07 > 0:22:11- ..but because they wouldn't dream - of doing such a thing.
0:22:17 > 0:22:19- It may be a cliche to say this...
0:22:19 > 0:22:24- ..but Tokyo manages to be familiar - and foreign at the same time.
0:22:25 > 0:22:30- The Hachiko public crossing - near Shibuya station...
0:22:30 > 0:22:35- ..reminds me of Piccadilly Circus - or Times Square.
0:22:35 > 0:22:40- But it's strange because it feels - as if I've woken up in a cartoon.
0:22:40 > 0:22:43- The traffic and rain are familiar...
0:22:44 > 0:22:47- ..but strangely, - this public crossing...
0:22:47 > 0:22:51- ..is one of the city's - tourist attractions.
0:23:00 > 0:23:05- To escape the dismal weather, - I go for something to eat.
0:23:05 > 0:23:10- That's not easy when you don't - speak a word of the language.
0:23:12 > 0:23:14- Arigato. Arigato.
0:23:15 > 0:23:17- No writing at all.
0:23:19 > 0:23:21- Just photographs.
0:23:21 > 0:23:25- I can't make out what anything is.
0:23:26 > 0:23:29- Something that resembles fish.
0:23:30 > 0:23:32- Some sort of sushi.
0:23:32 > 0:23:35- Something that looks like soup.
0:23:36 > 0:23:38- OK. No idea.
0:23:39 > 0:23:43- Oh, it's some kind of mince - or something.
0:23:43 > 0:23:45- She's moulding it into balls.
0:23:46 > 0:23:48- I get it now.
0:23:50 > 0:23:52- They're cooking in the soup.
0:23:55 > 0:23:57- Cawl.
0:24:01 > 0:24:04- She doesn't understand. - It's like cawl.
0:24:04 > 0:24:06- Cawl with chicken.
0:24:07 > 0:24:08- And pork.
0:24:08 > 0:24:10- And pork.- - Pork.
0:24:10 > 0:24:11- Chicken. Pork.
0:24:11 > 0:24:13- Chicken. Pork.- - Yes, chicken and pork.
0:24:13 > 0:24:16- Cawl. Cawl.
0:24:16 > 0:24:17- Cawl.
0:24:24 > 0:24:26- Delicious.
0:24:26 > 0:24:29- I'll try the chicken balls first.
0:24:32 > 0:24:36- They say it's polite - to slurp while eating.
0:24:37 > 0:24:41- It doesn't come naturally to me, - but I'll try.
0:24:41 > 0:24:43- I think that might be with noodles.
0:24:45 > 0:24:47- Arigato.
0:24:48 > 0:24:52- That's all I know. I don't know - what "very good" is! Mm!
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0:24:56 > 0:24:56- Subtitles
0:24:56 > 0:24:58- Subtitles- - Subtitles
0:25:07 > 0:25:09- The typhoon has subsided, - thank goodness.
0:25:10 > 0:25:13- The sun's shining - and Tokyo is at its best...
0:25:14 > 0:25:19- ..as I discover how Welsh products - influence Japanese lives.
0:25:24 > 0:25:27- It's hard to believe I'm back - in the same spot in Shibuya...
0:25:28 > 0:25:31- ..near the crossing - where I stood in the pouring rain.
0:25:32 > 0:25:35- I'm at the meeting point, - the faithful dog...
0:25:35 > 0:25:39- ..waiting for a girl from Tokyo - who's learning Welsh.
0:25:39 > 0:25:41- Steffan?
0:25:41 > 0:25:42- Yuko?
0:25:42 > 0:25:45- Yuko?- - Yes. Hello. How are you?
0:25:45 > 0:25:47- Very well.
0:25:48 > 0:25:52- She's called Yuko Nakauchi - and she has an incredible story.
0:25:52 > 0:25:56- She's helping me track down - the jams from Boncath.
0:25:56 > 0:26:00- I have a feeling she'll have to do - a bit of translating.
0:26:00 > 0:26:03- But first, - I want to know more about her.
0:26:03 > 0:26:06- Let's go and have a chat. - Which way? Over here?
0:26:13 > 0:26:18- Why on earth would a girl from Tokyo - want to learn Welsh?
0:26:21 > 0:26:24- When I was 15 years old...
0:26:24 > 0:26:28- ..I saw a film - called Un Nos Ola Leuad.
0:26:28 > 0:26:30- Did you enjoy it?
0:26:31 > 0:26:33- No, not at all.
0:26:33 > 0:26:38- The story - was a little too complicated...
0:26:38 > 0:26:41- ..for a 15-year-old girl.
0:26:45 > 0:26:48- But I was surprised...
0:26:48 > 0:26:54- ..that it was Welsh rather than - English being spoken in the film.
0:26:55 > 0:26:58- I became very interested - in the Welsh language...
0:26:58 > 0:27:02- ..so I decided to learn it.
0:27:02 > 0:27:06- At the time, I was studying - the history of art...
0:27:06 > 0:27:11- ..something totally different - from Welsh, at university in Japan.
0:27:11 > 0:27:16- But I thought Welsh was a more - interesting subject to study.
0:27:17 > 0:27:21- I gave up my studies in Japan...
0:27:21 > 0:27:27- ..and went to Aberystwyth University - to start to learn Welsh.
0:27:28 > 0:27:32- When you go to another country, - the culture hits you.
0:27:32 > 0:27:36- Being in Tokyo - is like being on another planet.
0:27:36 > 0:27:38- Did you stay on in Wales?
0:27:38 > 0:27:41- After graduating, - I came back to Tokyo.
0:27:42 > 0:27:45- I haven't been back to Wales - since then.
0:27:45 > 0:27:48- I want to go back to Wales sometime.
0:27:48 > 0:27:52- I may not be able - to take Yuko back to Wales...
0:27:52 > 0:27:55- ..but I can show her - a bit of Wales...
0:27:55 > 0:27:58- ..in one of Tokyo's - most affluent areas...
0:27:58 > 0:28:02- ..thousands of miles away - from a West Wales kitchen.
0:28:02 > 0:28:05- I have an appointment - in the Hayama district.
0:28:06 > 0:28:09- First, I need a little something - to take with me.
0:28:14 > 0:28:18- How would you describe - this area of Tokyo, Yuko?
0:28:19 > 0:28:22- This district is called Ginza.
0:28:22 > 0:28:26- It's similar to Knightsbridge.
0:28:26 > 0:28:30- There are many - designer boutiques here...
0:28:31 > 0:28:34- ..where they sell expensive goods.
0:28:35 > 0:28:38- Is this shop similar to Harrods?
0:28:38 > 0:28:39- Yes.
0:28:39 > 0:28:41- Yes.- - Let's take a look inside.
0:28:42 > 0:28:46- I take it the things they sell here - are mostly for presents?
0:28:46 > 0:28:51- Yes, people come here - to buy special presents.
0:28:51 > 0:28:53- Have you shopped here?
0:28:53 > 0:28:56- No, I've never been here.
0:28:56 > 0:28:58- You've never been here?
0:28:58 > 0:29:00- You've never been here?- - No.
0:29:01 > 0:29:03- It's rather exclusive.
0:29:04 > 0:29:08- I'm a bit nervous coming here - because it's my first time.
0:29:10 > 0:29:13- Here's the Japanese food.
0:29:13 > 0:29:15- It's totally different.
0:29:15 > 0:29:17- These are pickles.
0:29:18 > 0:29:20- This is seaweed.
0:29:20 > 0:29:24- I know you eat seaweed in Wales.
0:29:24 > 0:29:27- Yes, bara lawr from Swansea Market!
0:29:27 > 0:29:31- That's the same sort of thing.
0:29:31 > 0:29:33- Those labels look familiar.
0:29:34 > 0:29:36- Those are Wendy's, I think.
0:29:36 > 0:29:40- I helped Delyth and Mair - make the marmalade...
0:29:40 > 0:29:43- ..back at the farm in Boncath.
0:29:43 > 0:29:46- It's strange to see them...
0:29:46 > 0:29:50- ..alongside - these exclusive Japanese products.
0:29:50 > 0:29:53- Could you ask the gentleman - to take one down?
0:29:53 > 0:29:55- SHE SPEAKS JAPANESE
0:29:56 > 0:29:58- Strawberry.
0:30:02 > 0:30:04- It's a strange feeling.
0:30:04 > 0:30:09- I even saw them fill - and label these pots.
0:30:10 > 0:30:13- It's lovely to see them - all the way out here.
0:30:13 > 0:30:16- So they put whatever I want - in a box, do they?
0:30:17 > 0:30:18- Yes.
0:30:18 > 0:30:21- What if I go for one jam - and one marmalade then?
0:30:22 > 0:30:25- I'll take the strawberry - and the marmalade.
0:30:25 > 0:30:28- Could you ask him - to put those two in a box for me?
0:30:28 > 0:30:30- SHE SPEAKS JAPANESE
0:30:33 > 0:30:35- Arigato.
0:30:41 > 0:30:42- Thank you very much.
0:30:43 > 0:30:45- Arigato.
0:30:53 > 0:30:57- Here it is. - She's waiting for us. You go first.
0:30:57 > 0:30:59- Lead the way.
0:30:59 > 0:31:01- Hello. Konnichiwa.
0:31:01 > 0:31:04- Hello. How are you?
0:31:07 > 0:31:09- Mrs Ikeda?
0:31:10 > 0:31:12- THEY SPEAK JAPANESE
0:31:15 > 0:31:17- Arigato. Arigato.
0:31:17 > 0:31:19- Nice to meet you.
0:31:19 > 0:31:21- Put on the slippers.
0:31:21 > 0:31:24- I take it women's and men's - are the same?
0:31:24 > 0:31:27- I've come to Mrs Ikeda's home...
0:31:27 > 0:31:32- ..to discuss the important custom - of giving and receiving presents.
0:31:32 > 0:31:34- Arigato.
0:31:34 > 0:31:36- Oh, wow! Now then...
0:31:37 > 0:31:42- Would you explain to her that - it's an honour to be invited here?
0:31:42 > 0:31:45- I've also brought Mrs Ikeda - a present.
0:31:46 > 0:31:48- SHE SPEAKS JAPANESE
0:31:54 > 0:32:00- Thank you very much. - I'm touched, thank you.
0:32:01 > 0:32:03- The gift is from Wales.
0:32:04 > 0:32:06- It has been made in Wales...
0:32:06 > 0:32:09- ..and as you can see, - it's sold here in Japan.
0:32:15 > 0:32:21- I helped out in the kitchen - where they make the marmalade.
0:32:22 > 0:32:24- How lovely. Marmalade!
0:32:24 > 0:32:28- Not that pot exactly, - but I've seen how they make it.
0:32:28 > 0:32:31- It's wonderful, thank you.
0:32:32 > 0:32:36- Can I ask you a little - about giving presents?
0:32:36 > 0:32:38- The custom of giving presents.
0:32:38 > 0:32:41- Is it important in your culture?
0:32:43 > 0:32:49- When I visit someone, - I always take a gift...
0:32:50 > 0:32:56- ..and consider what they would like.
0:33:00 > 0:33:05- People of all ages - like receiving gifts.
0:33:05 > 0:33:12- They appreciate goods - from other countries...
0:33:12 > 0:33:18- ..and like hearing - different stories.
0:33:23 > 0:33:27- Giving presents is a talking point.
0:33:27 > 0:33:30- It's nice being able to give gifts.
0:33:31 > 0:33:34- She's happy - to receive a gift from Wales.
0:33:34 > 0:33:35- Arigato.
0:33:35 > 0:33:36- Arigato.- - My pleasure.
0:33:36 > 0:33:41- Mrs Ikeda is very welcoming - and generous in her hospitality.
0:33:42 > 0:33:46- If she were my grandmother, - I'd visit her regularly.
0:33:46 > 0:33:48- Kampai!
0:33:48 > 0:33:50- Kampai!
0:33:51 > 0:33:54- Thank you very much. - Thank you for your hospitality.
0:33:56 > 0:33:58- Is this Japanese tea?
0:33:58 > 0:34:00- Is this Japanese tea?- - No, it's Chinese tea.
0:34:00 > 0:34:03- It's very popular.
0:34:03 > 0:34:03- .
0:34:06 > 0:34:06- Subtitles
0:34:06 > 0:34:08- Subtitles- - Subtitles
0:34:20 > 0:34:24- My search for Welsh products - has brought me to Nagoya.
0:34:24 > 0:34:28- The Jokoji Temple is west of Tokyo, - in the Seto mountains.
0:34:29 > 0:34:31- It's a tranquil place...
0:34:32 > 0:34:36- ..to calm the soul, away from - the hustle and bustle of Japan.
0:34:36 > 0:34:39- A chance to clear the mind - and lose oneself...
0:34:39 > 0:34:43- ..in Zen Buddhist meditation.
0:34:45 > 0:34:48- I've been interested in Buddhism - for some time...
0:34:48 > 0:34:54- ..but it's amazing to meet monks - who practise this old philosophy.
0:34:57 > 0:35:00- He hits me with the stick - to remind me to concentrate.
0:35:01 > 0:35:03- A technique that works.
0:35:10 > 0:35:12- I didn't expect that.
0:35:28 > 0:35:30- I'd like to ask...
0:35:31 > 0:35:36- ..when meditating like this - to clear the mind completely...
0:35:36 > 0:35:40- ..are there - any special techniques...
0:35:40 > 0:35:45- ..that are better than others - to achieve that?
0:35:50 > 0:35:55- You have to feel the wind.
0:35:55 > 0:35:59- Slow. Slow. - You have to take your time.
0:35:59 > 0:36:03- You have to feel the sound - of the tree...
0:36:04 > 0:36:08- ..the sound and the wind.
0:36:08 > 0:36:13- That will empty your mind.
0:36:13 > 0:36:15- HE CHANTS
0:36:20 > 0:36:23- The Jokoji Temple, - built 700 years ago...
0:36:24 > 0:36:27- ..lies in the shade - of an unsafe camphor tree.
0:36:28 > 0:36:33- It poses a threat to the temple - and the Buddhist god guarding it.
0:36:33 > 0:36:38- A group of experts are going - to chop down this fragile tree.
0:36:38 > 0:36:42- But before work can begin, - the monk leads the group in prayer.
0:36:49 > 0:36:51- I think they've blessed the tree...
0:36:52 > 0:36:56- ..to bring them good luck - as they cut it down...
0:36:56 > 0:37:01- ..and not to harm the tree - in the process.
0:37:01 > 0:37:05- They've sprinkled sake - around the base...
0:37:05 > 0:37:09- ..so that the tree is drunk - and unable to feel any pain.
0:37:20 > 0:37:25- They're placing a cover - over this god called Ojizousama.
0:37:26 > 0:37:29- It's not the Buddha himself - but another god.
0:37:29 > 0:37:33- It will prevent him - being damaged in any way...
0:37:33 > 0:37:38- ..and he won't have to watch - the work being carried out...
0:37:38 > 0:37:41- ..and be saddened - by the tree being cut down.
0:37:41 > 0:37:45- It's not only the gods - who require health and safety.
0:37:45 > 0:37:51- The woodmen who will climb the tree - will be using equipment from Wales.
0:37:51 > 0:37:55- This is the story of a company - from Llanberis called DMM.
0:37:56 > 0:38:00- It was founded in 1981 - and exports all over the globe.
0:38:00 > 0:38:04- It provides these woodmen - with safety apparatus...
0:38:05 > 0:38:07- ..and climbing equipment.
0:38:07 > 0:38:10- I'm about to put my life - in their hands too.
0:38:19 > 0:38:21- Down like that?
0:38:22 > 0:38:23- Ai, ai, ai!
0:38:23 > 0:38:25- Ai, ai, ai!- - I'm heavier than he thought!
0:38:27 > 0:38:30- They're going to send me up - one of these trees.
0:38:31 > 0:38:34- Not the one they're chopping down!
0:38:34 > 0:38:39- Another one, from which I can see - the work being carried out.
0:38:39 > 0:38:44- They have to lop some branches - off the tree next to it. Off I go.
0:38:52 > 0:38:57- For safety, we use a karabiner, - manufactured by DMM.
0:39:01 > 0:39:03- There we go.
0:39:03 > 0:39:08- It was produced in Llanberis - and has made its way to Nagoya.
0:39:09 > 0:39:11- OK? Is it safe?
0:39:36 > 0:39:40- I'm up here, but I did nothing. - They did all the hard work.
0:39:40 > 0:39:42- I'm just hanging here now.
0:39:43 > 0:39:45- Don't look down, whatever you do!
0:39:48 > 0:39:52- After the ritual - of making an offering to the tree...
0:39:52 > 0:39:55- ..and worshipping Buddha, - it's back to work.
0:39:55 > 0:40:00- The hard work of cutting the tree - is left to the machinery.
0:40:00 > 0:40:04- The experts work together - in a very controlled manner.
0:40:16 > 0:40:20- I don't know the Japanese word - for timber!
0:40:21 > 0:40:23- Careful! Mind your heads!
0:40:30 > 0:40:32- Now from behind!
0:40:36 > 0:40:38- Wahey!
0:40:38 > 0:40:40- I almost went then too!
0:40:40 > 0:40:44- Steffan, are you enjoying - being up the tree?
0:40:44 > 0:40:46- Yes. I feel completely safe.
0:40:47 > 0:40:50- Much safer than when I climbed - the cherry tree...
0:40:50 > 0:40:54- ..we had in the garden - in Morriston years ago.
0:40:54 > 0:40:57- What type of tree is that one - you're chopping down?
0:40:58 > 0:41:01- It's a camphor tree.
0:41:02 > 0:41:05- It's strong and robust.
0:41:05 > 0:41:09- Yours is a gingko tree.
0:41:10 > 0:41:14- It brings money and good fortune.
0:41:14 > 0:41:17- Money and good fortune. - I hope so, anyway!
0:41:18 > 0:41:22- But first, - it's time for a lunch break.
0:41:41 > 0:41:45- This tree has stood - alongside the temple for centuries.
0:41:45 > 0:41:48- But it's cut down - in a matter of hours.
0:41:48 > 0:41:53- It's done with respect - and all the woodmen are safe.
0:41:56 > 0:41:59- As I leave - these industrious workers to it...
0:42:00 > 0:42:02- ..it's time to return home.
0:42:16 > 0:42:18- These mountains are a magnet...
0:42:18 > 0:42:22- ..for thousands of climbers - who come here every year.
0:42:22 > 0:42:27- There are cliffs to challenge - climbers of all abilities.
0:42:27 > 0:42:31- I'm no climber, but I adore - the beauty and tranquillity.
0:42:31 > 0:42:36- Where better to establish - a climbing equipment company?
0:42:47 > 0:42:51- We're surrounded by the beauty - of Snowdonia and Llyn Padarn.
0:42:51 > 0:42:55- It's an ideal location - to manufacture climbing equipment.
0:42:55 > 0:42:58- Yes, it's a wonderful place - to live and work.
0:43:05 > 0:43:08- I have an image of you climbing - as a group of friends...
0:43:09 > 0:43:12- ..and looking at the clips - and karabiners...
0:43:12 > 0:43:15- ..and thinking, we could do better.
0:43:15 > 0:43:17- That's how it came about.
0:43:17 > 0:43:22- We were climbing - and realized we had good ideas.
0:43:24 > 0:43:29- There was nobody out there - able to manufacture these products.
0:43:29 > 0:43:33- So we decided - to set up our own company.
0:43:33 > 0:43:35- Do you have any special orders?
0:43:35 > 0:43:37- Some years ago, - we won a contract...
0:43:38 > 0:43:40- ..to sell karabiners to NASA...
0:43:40 > 0:43:44- ..to protect astronauts - on their space walks.
0:43:44 > 0:43:48- We were very proud of that.
0:43:48 > 0:43:54- We're also selling far more - of our products to arborists.
0:43:54 > 0:43:59- These companies are springing up - all over the world.
0:44:16 > 0:44:20- Is every part of the process - carried out here in the factory?
0:44:20 > 0:44:24- Yes, the whole process, from start - to finish, is carried out here.
0:44:25 > 0:44:29- Quality is the most important thing.
0:44:29 > 0:44:33- People's lives depend - on the quality of this product.
0:44:33 > 0:44:39- We soon realized we couldn't depend - on contractors or other people...
0:44:39 > 0:44:44- ..to do the job thoroughly, - so we taught ourselves to do it.
0:44:46 > 0:44:48- We can sleep - a lot better at night...
0:44:49 > 0:44:53- ..knowing that the products - we manufacture here are safe.
0:45:05 > 0:45:09- The karabiners feel very light. - How much do they weigh?
0:45:09 > 0:45:11- The Phantom weighs 20 grams.
0:45:12 > 0:45:15- It holds two and a half tonnes.
0:45:15 > 0:45:19- Twenty grams - can hold over two tonnes?
0:45:19 > 0:45:21- The equivalent of two cars.
0:45:21 > 0:45:23- Yes, two cars.
0:45:23 > 0:45:25- Twenty grams - holds the weight of two cars.
0:45:26 > 0:45:30- The company was developed here - but due to economic difficulties...
0:45:31 > 0:45:35- ..have you been tempted to move - your manufacturing overseas?
0:45:35 > 0:45:37- No, we've not been tempted.
0:45:37 > 0:45:41- We've noticed that everyone else - has moved to Asia...
0:45:41 > 0:45:44- ..especially China and Taiwan.
0:45:44 > 0:45:47- We don't want to be the same - as everyone else.
0:45:47 > 0:45:51- Those principles - are very important to us.
0:45:51 > 0:45:56- We've spent a lot of money - training our staff.
0:45:56 > 0:46:00- We wouldn't close the place down - and move to China to cut costs.
0:46:01 > 0:46:04- We couldn't trust the quality.
0:46:04 > 0:46:10- It's about more than just - buying and selling a product.
0:46:10 > 0:46:12- We create something here.
0:46:12 > 0:46:16- Our staff have helped us - create the product...
0:46:16 > 0:46:20- ..and made us - the company we are today.
0:46:20 > 0:46:24- I've got no interest - in moving the business to China...
0:46:24 > 0:46:26- ..or overseas.
0:46:32 > 0:46:35- The world is getting smaller.
0:46:35 > 0:46:37- When Paul established his company...
0:46:38 > 0:46:43- ..I wonder if he ever thought - he'd be helping a Zen Buddhist monk?
0:46:43 > 0:46:46- I wonder - what Eifion's grandfather...
0:46:46 > 0:46:49- ..would think - of Mr Takaoka's zabuton cushions?
0:46:49 > 0:46:54- I'm sure the exclusive Wako store - and Mrs Ikeda's hospitality...
0:46:54 > 0:46:59- ..would make Mair and Delyth smile - as they made their jam in Boncath.
0:47:34 > 0:47:36- S4C Subtitles by Adnod Cyf.
0:47:36 > 0:47:36- .