Exploring the World Through Slow TV: A Map of Slow TV Video Walks
For those who relish the simple pleasure of watching leisurely walks unfold in different corners of the world, a new resource has emerged: the Slow TV Map. This unique map offers an overview of 675 video walks from various locations worldwide, providing viewers with an immersive experience of exploring different landscapes and environments.
What is Slow TV? — Slow TV is a genre that celebrates the beauty of slowness and the simple pleasures of everyday life. Originating in Norway, Slow TV typically involves long, uninterrupted shots of mundane activities, such as train journeys, nature scenes, or even knitting sessions. Unlike traditional television programming, which is often fast-paced and heavily edited, Slow TV encourages viewers to embrace a more contemplative pace, allowing them to immerse themselves fully in the sights and sounds of the experience. By focusing on the journey rather than the destination, Slow TV offers a welcome respite from the chaos of modern life, inviting viewers to relax, unwind, and appreciate the world around them in a more meaningful way.
The Slow TV Map originated from a desire to catalog and organize the plethora of walking videos available online. Rather than traditional vlogs or heavily edited content, the focus here is on “raw” walking footage, complete with the ambient sounds of the environment — from cars passing by to the chatter of pedestrians.
The map curator aimed to capture not only well-known locations but also lesser-known and more obscure places, offering a diverse array of walking experiences. By collecting and categorizing videos from different parts of the globe, the map provides viewers with a virtual passport to destinations they may never have considered exploring.
Using the map is simple: users can click on a marker to select the starting location of a video walk, then click on the picture and press play to begin the journey. Markers of the same color indicate videos recorded by the same person, while purple markers include videos from various contributors.
To ensure a high-quality viewing experience, the curator established criteria for inclusion on the map. Only videos meeting certain standards — such as no vlogs, decent quality with minimal shaking, and a minimum length of 15 minutes — were considered. This selection process ensures that viewers are treated to immersive and uninterrupted walking experiences.
The Slow TV Map stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of slow, immersive experiences in an increasingly fast-paced world. As the curator continues to expand and refine the map, viewers can look forward to discovering new destinations and embarking on virtual journeys to places near and far.
Whether it’s strolling through the bustling streets of Tokyo or meandering along a tranquil countryside path, the Slow TV Map offers a window into the diverse and captivating landscapes of our world. So grab a cup of tea, settle into your favorite armchair, and let the adventures unfold from the comfort of your screen.
