Lost in Translation at the Baltic Sea. In a sleepy little town by the Baltic Sea, the famous Japanese kiln builder Tatsuo Yamashiro is supposed to construct a traditional Anagama wood-fired kiln for the German ceramic artist Ernst Liesgang. Everything must proceed strictly according to Japanese tradition, and so Mr. Yamashiro is even accompanied by his own cook, who is to take care of his culinary needs. Complications arise repeatedly during the construction. As if that weren't enough, Mr. Yamashiro, to the dismay of his Japanese companions, discovers his enthusiasm for Mettbrötchen, schnitzel, potatoes, and clear schnapps.