Take a close look at unique herbs and spices, from the world-famous wasabi to the recently popular Sansho pepper. These small ingredients have played a massive role in the development of Japanese cuisine over the centuries, not only providing a punch of flavor but even disinfectant properties and health benefits. Join our reporters on a mouth-watering journey into the world of Japan's herbs and spices.

Being surrounded by ocean on all sides, Japan has long relied on the ocean for sustenance. Numerous fishing and cultivation methods have been developed over the centuries to ensure the sustainability of such resources. From top quality fish raised on olive leaves and orange peels, to cultivated seaweed and shellfish, learn about several robust methods with our reporters in this special installment of "Trails to Oishii Tokyo," focusing on Japan's fisheries.

Fruit in Japan has evolved in the country's unique climate, shaping into perfect gems that are now recognized worldwide. Some are even referred to by their Japanese names, such as kaki and yuzu. Japanese peaches and pears are known for their impactful juiciness. In this special installment of Trails to Oishii Tokyo, revisit the hard work and ingenuity that goes into cultivating the fruits that have come to be prized the world over.

Satoyama - mountains surrounding villages where seasonal goodies are harvested all year. Enjoy a variety of mushrooms in fall, or produce gathered once the winter snow melts. These unique natural ingredients helped build the foundation of Japanese cuisine, stimulating all 5 senses throughout the year. In this special installment of Trails to Oishii Tokyo, our reporters visit Satoyama areas across Japan to discover the wonders that nature has to offer.

This episode features unique ingredients that may have you asking, "You eat that?!" Discover secrets behind nori, the papery food you've likely seen at a sushi shop; gobo, a root that's surprisingly versatile; and sea cucumbers! Add gelatinous Konnyaku to your diet as a calorie-free filler, and try the ingredient from the sea that makes Japanese sweets so special. Join us in this special remix about products of nature you wouldn't expect to end up on your dinner table.

As an island nation, Japan is surrounded by marine life. Since ancient times, these gifts from the sea have played key roles both on and off the dinner table. Feast your eyes on a selection from previous episodes as our Tokyo-based reporters discover what makes these marine delights so important for seasonal events and celebrations.

As an island nation, Japan has enjoyed a plethora of seafood since ancient times. In natural form, some may not look particularly appetizing, and some may even frighten you! But preparation and cooking methods have evolved over the centuries to transform these strange creatures that you may not have imagined were edible into tasty delights! Join us on a recap of some of our coolest seafood discoveries!