Ep 5. Peach Boy

James May: Our Man in Japan season 1 episode 5, titled “Peach Boy,” follows James May as he ventures to Yamanashi, a mountainous region in Japan, to discover the history and culture behind Japan's peach industry. The episode begins with May marveling at the stunning scenery of Yamanashi, which is covered in lush greenery and surrounded by towering mountains.

May first visits a local farm where he learns about the unique cultivation process behind Japanese peaches. He watches as the farm workers carefully tend to the peach trees, pruning them meticulously to ensure they bear the sweetest fruit. May even tries his hand at pruning, realizing how much precision and skill is required to cultivate a perfect peach.

The episode then takes a deeper dive into the story of Momotaro, a beloved character in Japanese folklore known as the Peach Boy. May speaks to a local expert about the story of Momotaro, which tells of a boy who was born from a peach and went on to heroic feats with the help of his animal friends. May discovers that the tale of Momotaro has been passed down through the generations and remains a significant part of Japanese culture today.

Next, May visits a peach orchard in full bloom and sees firsthand the fruits of the farmers' labor. May is amazed at the stunning beauty of the peaches, which are delicately pink and perfectly formed. He also gets the chance to taste some of the freshest peaches, and he's astounded by their sweetness and depth of flavor.

The episode continues with May exploring the many uses of peaches in Japanese culture. He visits a traditional Japanese sweet shop and learns how to make peach-flavored wagashi, a traditional treat made from mochi filled with sweet bean paste. He also visits a sake brewery where he tastes a peach sake, made from top-quality peaches grown in Yamanashi.

Finally, May travels to the Yamanashi Peach Festival, an event that celebrates the region's peach industry and attracts crowds from all over Japan. He explores the festival, which includes peach-themed games, food stalls, and even a peach princess contest. May marvels at the enthusiasm of the festival-goers and the pride they have for their local industry.

Throughout the episode, May delivers his trademark humor and wit, showcasing the beauty and charm of Yamanashi and the significance of the peach industry in Japanese culture. He shows deep respect for the farmers and the hard work that goes into cultivating perfect peaches, and he leaves with a new appreciation for this quintessential Japanese fruit.

Overall, James May: Our Man in Japan season 1 episode 5 is a fascinating and entertaining look at the world of Japanese peaches. It's a perfect example of how May's unique style and love of adventure make for an engaging and educational travel show.