It's easy to believe that whenever humans come into contact with nature, nature suffers. However, this week's installment of NHK's nature show, "Chikyu: Fushigi Daishizen" (The Earth: Wondrous Nature; NHK-G, Monday, 8 p.m.), visits an area of Japan where people and nature have been living in harmony for many, many years.
In the northern part of Shiga Prefecture on the shore of Lake Biwa is a village where streams run between -- and even through -- many of the residences. These streams are filled with various species of fish, so when the fish lay eggs and wait for them to hatch, their human neighbors can watch closely. The region is also filled with many bird species, and vegetation is allowed to grow freely, thus giving the village a naturally rustic atmosphere that is timeless.
A popular late-night program, "Ai no Apron (Apron of Love)," was recently rewarded for its success with an upgrade to prime time. The premise of the show is simple: Female talent prepare meals in the "Iron Chef" tradition for a panel of male guests . . . who then pass judgment.