Asia Culture

Discover the endless fascination of Japanese culture with seven ancient tales, selected for you for their power of evocation, wisdom and humor. Not unlike the western folk tales compiled by the Brothers Grimm, these stories faithfully preserve the spirit of medieval Japan, while rendered in a translation accessible to all ages.

L'empereur de Chine, qui ne quitte jamais les limites de son palais, ignore qu'il existe un peu plus loin, au-delà de ses jardins maniérés, des lacs profonds et des bois touffus que les gens du peuple connaissent bien.

The Emperor of China learns that one of the most beautiful things in his empire is the song of the nightingale. When he orders the nightingale brought to him, a kitchen maid leads the court to a nearby forest, where the nightingale agrees to appear at court, where it remains as the Emperor's favorite. When the Emperor is given a bejeweled mechanical bird he loses interest in the real nightingale, who returns to the forest. The mechanical bird eventually breaks down; and the Emperor is taken deathly ill a few years later. The real nightingale learns of the Emperor's condition and returns to the palace; whereupon Death is so moved by the nightingale's song that he allows the Emperor to live.

Siblings Nimol and Akara take us on a whirlwind adventure across their ancient home country of Cambodia. Are you ready to explore hidden temples that were built thousands of years ago? Would you like to taste a crispy deep-fried cricket sold on the side of the street? You could even dive into the crystal clear ocean and enjoy some tropical snorkeling. Nimol and Akara can't wait to show you where they live, how they speak, and what they eat.

In this visit to the Indonesian archipelago, brother and sister Wayan and Angkasa take us on a wonderful adventure around their home country and the local island of Bali. Join them as they snorkel over some of the world’s best coral reefs, surf on world-class waves, hike to the top of active volcanoes, and visit some of their most important religious and cultural sites. Wayan and Angkasa explain to us how the location of their home has influenced the diverse culture and religions that can be found there.

In this Caldecott Medal-winning tale set in Old Japan, a lively little woman who loves to laugh pursues her runaway dumpling - and must outwit the wicked three-eyed oni when she lands in their clutches.

Join the How to Catch kids as they try to catch a notorious dragon by setting trap after trap during the Spring Festival, also known as the Chinese New Year!