O ne of the subsections of TV Tokyo's large selection of food-travel programs is the "Bijin Okami" special. Bijin okami, which translates as "beautiful mistress of the house," are women who run inns and hotels in resort and hot-spring areas. They are usually married to the owners of the establishments where they work.
The "beautiful" aspect may be more subjective, but the okami's importance to such establishments goes beyond planning menus and making sure the help isn't stealing sake from the cupboards. She is also the face that an inn shows to the world, since in most cases, the owner remains behind the scenes.
"Sunday Big Variety" (TV Tokyo, 7 p.m.) will present yet another selection of okami from all over Japan doing what they do best: greeting guests, berating the staff, and being gorgeous and gracious.