suiseki in _Zatoichi: The Blind Swordsman_

Among the fourteen 90-minute episodes of Zatoichi: The Blind Swordsman on www.hulu.com, Episode #8 titled "Fight, Zatoichi, Fight" [link] demonstrates two passed-over suiseki in the opening credits (from 38 seconds to 1 minute 30 seconds into the program).

Those with USA Netflix accounts can also view Zatoichi without advertisements that plague Hulu. Videos are typically copyrighted by region, so it is probably not be available outside North America on Hulu.com or Netflix.

The episode opens with Zatoichi's straw-sandaled feet walking a well-traveled dirt path; background music (drums projecting within orchestra) adds emotion to the scene. He almost immediately encounters a stone in his path (seen between his feet) with the unmistakable pattern of a white Mt. Fuji on its front face. He uses his cane, which is also a hidden sword, to push the loose stone from his path. Moments later, he approaches a partially buried stone which is, at first, outside-of-camera-focus. It is soon seen between his feet-- a stunning, potential mountain ridge suiseki. He tests its contour with a sandaled foot and lightly taps it with his cane's tip before continuing down the path.

Nicely done!

Very cool Chris!! Thanks for the info...I love Zatoichi. I have dvds of 2 episodes but never found any others. Thanks for the heads up!!