This video provides a rare inside look into the demanding yet fulfilling daily routine of a Japanese fisherman working in the country’s picturesque countryside. Focusing on the traditional ōgata teichi-ami-ryō (大型定置網漁), also known as Set Net Fishing, the film follows the entire workday of fisherman Kyosuke and his crew. Unlike deep sea operations, this form of coastal fishing allows the crew to return home at the end of the day, but the collaborative effort required is immense. Two boats, one smaller and one larger, operate in tandem, with each fisherman assigned a unique and essential role as they haul in the nets through seamless teamwork.

The video highlights the dangers of the profession, noting that fishing is one of Japan’s most hazardous jobs with a high fatality rate, only surpassed by forestry and mining. Viewers gain a deeper appreciation for the discipline, skill, and vigilance required in even the most routine tasks. As the video explores the challenges facing Japan’s fishing industry—including an aging workforce, warming oceans, and strict international regulations—it reveals the resilience and passion of those determined to keep this tradition alive.

Kyosuke, the captain, is particularly committed to revitalizing the trade for future generations, providing insight into the modern struggles and adaptations within the fishing community. The documentary is rich with scenes of early morning preparations, gritty teamwork on the open water, and the satisfaction of a hard day’s work—a vivid window into both the dangers and the close-knit camaraderie of fishermen in rural Japan.

Historically, Japan was once the world’s leading fishing nation, producing about 17% of the global catch. However, that share has plummeted to only 3% in recent decades as external and internal pressures mount. Yet, for families and communities along Japan’s coast, fishing remains not just a profession but a way of life, deeply ingrained in local culture and tradition. This video offers both a tribute to and a call for preservation of this vital aspect of rural Japanese life.