IT’S BIG IN JAPAN
WHETHER it’s the sight of Sue doing sumo, cosying up to a robot dog or looking baffled at a solo wedding, there’s so much to amuse and captivate in this latest travelogue.
Sue Perkins has always been fascinated with Japan and here she is at her absolute best, with “a head full of questions” in this extraordinary place.
“It’s the birthplace of Zen!” she smirks, standing in the
middle of the noisy, bustling, neon city of Tokyo.
It’s an alien-looking place, with a culture consumed with beliefs of the past but also super hi-tech and futuristic.
With Japan hosting the next Olympic games, all eyes will soon be on this unique country, but what does the future hold for it?
Sue is in a constant state of amazement as she begins her journey, first heading into the world of sumo, the national sport where top pros are treated like rock stars.
Training with a female sumo team, nappy and all, she investigates the lack of equality as women still can’t compete professionally. She also gets thrown around quite a lot.
Sue also spends a night in a robot hotel, where super freaky robot receptionists check you in. And she visits a family who live with robots, including one that helps the kids with their homework and Toto the metal-made pet dog.
Later, Sue takes part in Hell Camp, Japan’s toughest business school, and she learns about solo weddings. Young women can enjoy all the excitement of their big day – just with no husband.