The typical image of modern Japan is one of a neon-lit, high-tech futuristic society crammed into skyscraper-strewn cities. Just a short way out from the bustling human hotspots lies a completely different country. Born of volcanic eruptions and comprising 6,852 individual islands, this other land is one of incredible variety and natural wonder. With habitats ranging from snowy mountains to sun-kissed beaches and subtropical paradises, these diverse landscapes are home to creatures including brown bears, raccoon dogs, fiddler crabs and the famous hot-spring-bathing macaque monkeys.
National Geographics Japan’s Wild Secrets is a beautifully shot wildlife documentary. Taking care not to re-tread already well covered ground, the programme skips through landscape after sequence after complex shots. There are plenty of time lapse for enthusiasts (a must with today’s wild life documentary) and for those who like facts and figures, they throw them at you like you’re probably taking notes.
Highlights included a Japanese Macac (also known as a Snow Monkey) pick a bit of sleep from the corner of its eye and after inspecting it, continues to eat it. And mud skippers’ suprising ability to look adorable even thought they’re gooey, spitting out mud and blinking like a parody of a person with mental illness. Even their attempts at looking threatening was cute.
The photography is stunning and inspirational but the end message is a familiar one. That of modern developments threatening the natural environment.
Catch the show on Nat Geo Wild; Tuesday 8th at 9pm