NHK WORLD-JAPAN

Hiraoka Kasumi is in the international spotlight after winning an award at the Vertical Movie Festival 2025. She talks about combining social commentary with fantasy-inspired storytelling.

Discover the stories behind renowned Japanese products alongside our reporter. This time: lotion tissues.

Every year, breeders of colorful carp (koi) compete in Tokyo for the title of World Champion. The Mano brothers, Futoshi and Shigeru, endured a devastating earthquake, and are seeking victory.

Actor Kataoka Ainosuke explores the folklore and history behind Japanese oni, or demons, and guides us through three spectacular kabuki dramas in which they play a central role.

From sea voyages to space travel, humanity has always faced one common problem: motion sickness. Discover how scientists are unraveling its mechanisms.

We take a trip to Sapporo, the city that served as a base for the development of Hokkaido. Learn the history behind its central river and see how locals are now working to restore wild salmon runs.

In July 2025, Ibuki became the first Japanese winner of the world's most prestigious magic competition. He talks about his swift rise to success, and explains how he comes up with original tricks.

Okinawa Soba! The oldest version still made today, tells the story behind the creation of this southern island classic.

NHK WORLD-JAPAN presents a wide range of programs from news, current affairs, documentaries, etc. focusing on Japan and Asia.

We visit the Yoshiwara district, Edo's most prominent pleasure quarters. Among the lavish spenders, courtesans and apprentices, small humanoid creatures scurry about - what could they be up to?

Hiraoka Kasumi is in the international spotlight after winning an award at the Vertical Movie Festival 2025. She talks about combining social commentary with fantasy-inspired storytelling.

Discover the stories behind renowned Japanese products alongside our reporter. This time: lotion tissues.

Every year, breeders of colorful carp (koi) compete in Tokyo for the title of World Champion. The Mano brothers, Futoshi and Shigeru, endured a devastating earthquake, and are seeking victory.

We take a trip to Sapporo, the city that served as a base for the development of Hokkaido. Learn the history behind its central river and see how locals are now working to restore wild salmon runs.

Actor Kataoka Ainosuke explores the folklore and history behind Japanese oni, or demons, and guides us through three spectacular kabuki dramas in which they play a central role.

Hiraoka Kasumi is in the international spotlight after winning an award at the Vertical Movie Festival 2025. She talks about combining social commentary with fantasy-inspired storytelling.

Discover the stories behind renowned Japanese products alongside our reporter. This time: lotion tissues.

In July 2025, Ibuki became the first Japanese winner of the world's most prestigious magic competition. He talks about his swift rise to success, and explains how he comes up with original tricks.

Okinawa Soba! The oldest version still made today, tells the story behind the creation of this southern island classic.

NHK WORLD-JAPAN presents a wide range of programs from news, current affairs, documentaries, etc. focusing on Japan and Asia.

We visit the Yoshiwara district, Edo's most prominent pleasure quarters. Among the lavish spenders, courtesans and apprentices, small humanoid creatures scurry about - what could they be up to?

Visionary Eye Tech: This episode features technology that turns smartphones into professional-grade eye exam equipment and vision-enhancing glasses designed for people with visual impairments.

Every year, breeders of colorful carp (koi) compete in Tokyo for the title of World Champion. The Mano brothers, Futoshi and Shigeru, endured a devastating earthquake, and are seeking victory.

We take a trip to Sapporo, the city that served as a base for the development of Hokkaido. Learn the history behind its central river and see how locals are now working to restore wild salmon runs.

Hiraoka Kasumi is in the international spotlight after winning an award at the Vertical Movie Festival 2025. She talks about combining social commentary with fantasy-inspired storytelling.

Discover the stories behind renowned Japanese products alongside our reporter. This time: lotion tissues.

Actor Kataoka Ainosuke explores the folklore and history behind Japanese oni, or demons, and guides us through three spectacular kabuki dramas in which they play a central role.

A selection of acclaimed programs from NHK's domestic channels dubbed into English.

American linguistic anthropologist Debra Occhi dives into the fascinating world of mascots and characters. From adorable to heroic, she explores how their naming is shaped by sound.

A selection of acclaimed programs from NHK's domestic channels dubbed into English.

American linguistic anthropologist Debra Occhi dives into the fascinating world of mascots and characters. From adorable to heroic, she explores how their naming is shaped by sound.

Leading Japanese dancer and choreographer Kondo Ryohei served as director of the opening ceremony for the Tokyo Deaflympics in November 2025. He talks about the potential of physical expression.

Enjoy Hida Takayama Ramen! A heartwarming bowl loved in the snowy mountain town, bringing comfort with every sip.

All black soup! A one-of-a-kind bowl of ramen from the fertile rice lands of Toyama.

It's late at night, when all are fast asleep. A young man and woman huddle together along the veranda outside of a house, attending to a ... rooster. What could the pair be up to?

A selection of acclaimed programs from NHK's domestic channels dubbed into English.

Across the country, Japan's railways are working towards a shared goal: carbon neutrality. See the efforts being made to shift away from diesel power and to improve energy efficiency overall.

American linguistic anthropologist Debra Occhi dives into the fascinating world of mascots and characters. From adorable to heroic, she explores how their naming is shaped by sound.

A selection of acclaimed programs from NHK's domestic channels dubbed into English.

Leading Japanese dancer and choreographer Kondo Ryohei served as director of the opening ceremony for the Tokyo Deaflympics in November 2025. He talks about the potential of physical expression.

Enjoy Hida Takayama Ramen! A heartwarming bowl loved in the snowy mountain town, bringing comfort with every sip.

All black soup! A one-of-a-kind bowl of ramen from the fertile rice lands of Toyama.

It's late at night, when all are fast asleep. A young man and woman huddle together along the veranda outside of a house, attending to a ... rooster. What could the pair be up to?

Across the country, Japan's railways are working towards a shared goal: carbon neutrality. See the efforts being made to shift away from diesel power and to improve energy efficiency overall.

A selection of acclaimed programs from NHK's domestic channels dubbed into English.

American linguistic anthropologist Debra Occhi dives into the fascinating world of mascots and characters. From adorable to heroic, she explores how their naming is shaped by sound.

An in-depth look at the realities of Asia today -- a dynamic region which faces political, economic, cultural, and technological change.

As nearly a quarter of Ukraine's territory remains contaminated by landmines, we follow a Japanese scientist's use of radar technology to support demining efforts in the war-torn country.

Come on a scenic drive through Iwate's rich nature. Starting from Morioka station, we head to the picturesque Jodogahama beach. Along the way we make a detour to Tono, known for its kappa legends.

NHK WORLD-JAPAN presents a wide range of programs from news, current affairs, documentaries, etc. focusing on Japan and Asia.

Across the country, Japan's railways are working towards a shared goal: carbon neutrality. See the efforts being made to shift away from diesel power and to improve energy efficiency overall.

An in-depth look at the realities of Asia today -- a dynamic region which faces political, economic, cultural, and technological change.

As nearly a quarter of Ukraine's territory remains contaminated by landmines, we follow a Japanese scientist's use of radar technology to support demining efforts in the war-torn country.

Come on a scenic drive through Iwate's rich nature. Starting from Morioka station, we head to the picturesque Jodogahama beach. Along the way we make a detour to Tono, known for its kappa legends.

NHK WORLD-JAPAN presents a wide range of programs from news, current affairs, documentaries, etc. focusing on Japan and Asia.

Kerosene home delivery is a key lifeline for residents of Sapporo, Hokkaido. For three days in midwinter, we followed trucks delivering this heating oil and spoke to people who rely on this service.

Across the country, Japan's railways are working towards a shared goal: carbon neutrality. See the efforts being made to shift away from diesel power and to improve energy efficiency overall.

An in-depth look at the realities of Asia today -- a dynamic region which faces political, economic, cultural, and technological change.

Direct and in-depth. Interviews exploring the minds and motivations of the leaders, visionaries, artists and entrepreneurs who are changing our world.

The entire Earth is affected by climate change, occurring with a greater speed and scale than ever before. This program uses scientific data and the latest findings to raise awareness on its impact.

Chatroom Japan puts a spotlight on our diverse international community.We report on the issues, speak to those involved, and get a fresh look at what it's like to live in Japan.

As nearly a quarter of Ukraine's territory remains contaminated by landmines, we follow a Japanese scientist's use of radar technology to support demining efforts in the war-torn country.

Come on a scenic drive through Iwate's rich nature. Starting from Morioka station, we head to the picturesque Jodogahama beach. Along the way we make a detour to Tono, known for its kappa legends.

NHK WORLD-JAPAN presents a wide range of programs from news, current affairs, documentaries, etc. focusing on Japan and Asia.

Today's theme: Reimagining Analog Design. Analog is making a comeback, offering a human appeal to our five senses that digital lacks. Explore designs that reveal the charm and potential of analog.

An in-depth look at the realities of Asia today -- a dynamic region which faces political, economic, cultural, and technological change.

Every year, breeders of colorful carp (koi) compete in Tokyo for the title of World Champion. The Mano brothers, Futoshi and Shigeru, endured a devastating earthquake, and are seeking victory.

As nearly a quarter of Ukraine's territory remains contaminated by landmines, we follow a Japanese scientist's use of radar technology to support demining efforts in the war-torn country.

Direct and in-depth. Interviews exploring the minds and motivations of the leaders, visionaries, artists and entrepreneurs who are changing our world.

The entire Earth is affected by climate change, occurring with a greater speed and scale than ever before. This program uses scientific data and the latest findings to raise awareness on its impact.

We visit one of the most famous cherry blossom spots in Edo. Flower viewing parties were for eating, drinking and making merry. It was also an opportunity for young men and women to mingle.

Fecal microbiota transplantation transfers gut bacteria from a healthy donor's stool into a patient's colon. It is being explored as a treatment for ulcerative colitis, Parkinson's disease and ADHD.

Come on a scenic drive through Iwate's rich nature. Starting from Morioka station, we head to the picturesque Jodogahama beach. Along the way we make a detour to Tono, known for its kappa legends.

NHK WORLD-JAPAN presents a wide range of programs from news, current affairs, documentaries, etc. focusing on Japan and Asia.

Today's theme: Reimagining Analog Design. Analog is making a comeback, offering a human appeal to our five senses that digital lacks. Explore designs that reveal the charm and potential of analog.

An in-depth look at the realities of Asia today -- a dynamic region which faces political, economic, cultural, and technological change.

As nearly a quarter of Ukraine's territory remains contaminated by landmines, we follow a Japanese scientist's use of radar technology to support demining efforts in the war-torn country.

Chatroom Japan puts a spotlight on our diverse international community.We report on the issues, speak to those involved, and get a fresh look at what it's like to live in Japan.

Discover the stories behind renowned Japanese products alongside our reporter. This time: lotion tissues.

Australian Phillip Richards gives back to his adopted home of Nozawaonsen by crafting gin and whiskey using local ingredients. We explore what draws him to this small village in Nagano Prefecture.

Featured recipe: Rika's Salmon & Rice Learn about easy, delicious, and healthy cooking with Chef Rika in five minutes!

Today's theme: Reimagining Analog Design. Analog is making a comeback, offering a human appeal to our five senses that digital lacks. Explore designs that reveal the charm and potential of analog.

This program employs "mitateru," a Japanese technique, to inspire children's imagination by encouraging them to view objects differently and develop their unique perspectives and creativity. (#8).

The Japanese language is rich in words and expressions influenced by nature and culture.This episode looks at words related to morning. Explore the unique words and the culture behind them.

The Kawanishi Dainenbutsu Kenbai dance tells the story of restless souls being guided to the Pure Land by the Buddha, in the form of a monkey. In 2022, it became UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage.

Daisen-Oki National Park comprises the Oki Islands, which boast spectacular geological formations, and a mainland area with shrines and sacred mountains that gave rise to myths and legends.

Be earthquake-ready! Learn survival tips for quakes and when you're trapped under rubble. You'll want to watch this before your next trip to Japan.

Yamagata / Nakui Naoko (book designer)Thread for traditional "shina" fabric takes a year to make. Ultrafine mohair is also made here, with a 60-year-old device. Nakui admires the hunt for improvement.

The Japanese language is rich in words and expressions influenced by nature and culture.This episode looks at words related to morning. Explore the unique words and the culture behind them.

The Kawanishi Dainenbutsu Kenbai dance tells the story of restless souls being guided to the Pure Land by the Buddha, in the form of a monkey. In 2022, it became UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage.

Today's theme: Reimagining Analog Design. Analog is making a comeback, offering a human appeal to our five senses that digital lacks. Explore designs that reveal the charm and potential of analog.

This program employs "mitateru," a Japanese technique, to inspire children's imagination by encouraging them to view objects differently and develop their unique perspectives and creativity. (#8).

Featured recipe: Rika's Salmon & Rice Learn about easy, delicious, and healthy cooking with Chef Rika in five minutes!

Daisen-Oki National Park comprises the Oki Islands, which boast spectacular geological formations, and a mainland area with shrines and sacred mountains that gave rise to myths and legends.

Be earthquake-ready! Learn survival tips for quakes and when you're trapped under rubble. You'll want to watch this before your next trip to Japan.

Yamagata / Nakui Naoko (book designer)Thread for traditional "shina" fabric takes a year to make. Ultrafine mohair is also made here, with a 60-year-old device. Nakui admires the hunt for improvement.

Kamikochi is a beautiful mountainous region in Nagano Prefecture that's 1,500m above sea level. With a mirror-like pond and rime ice, see the frozen beauty of Kamikochi through time-lapse photography.

This program employs "mitateru," a Japanese technique, to inspire children's imagination by encouraging them to view objects differently and develop their unique perspectives and creativity. (#8).

Featured recipe: Rika's Salmon & Rice Learn about easy, delicious, and healthy cooking with Chef Rika in five minutes!

The Japanese language is rich in words and expressions influenced by nature and culture.This episode looks at words related to morning. Explore the unique words and the culture behind them.

The Kawanishi Dainenbutsu Kenbai dance tells the story of restless souls being guided to the Pure Land by the Buddha, in the form of a monkey. In 2022, it became UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage.

Daisen-Oki National Park comprises the Oki Islands, which boast spectacular geological formations, and a mainland area with shrines and sacred mountains that gave rise to myths and legends.

Be earthquake-ready! Learn survival tips for quakes and when you're trapped under rubble. You'll want to watch this before your next trip to Japan.

Yamagata / Nakui Naoko (book designer)Thread for traditional "shina" fabric takes a year to make. Ultrafine mohair is also made here, with a 60-year-old device. Nakui admires the hunt for improvement.

Kamikochi is a beautiful mountainous region in Nagano Prefecture that's 1,500m above sea level. With a mirror-like pond and rime ice, see the frozen beauty of Kamikochi through time-lapse photography.

This program employs "mitateru," a Japanese technique, to inspire children's imagination by encouraging them to view objects differently and develop their unique perspectives and creativity. (#8).

Featured recipe: Rika's Salmon & Rice Learn about easy, delicious, and healthy cooking with Chef Rika in five minutes!

Daisen-Oki National Park comprises the Oki Islands, which boast spectacular geological formations, and a mainland area with shrines and sacred mountains that gave rise to myths and legends.

Be earthquake-ready! Learn survival tips for quakes and when you're trapped under rubble. You'll want to watch this before your next trip to Japan.

Yamagata / Nakui Naoko (book designer)Thread for traditional "shina" fabric takes a year to make. Ultrafine mohair is also made here, with a 60-year-old device. Nakui admires the hunt for improvement.

The Japanese language is rich in words and expressions influenced by nature and culture.This episode looks at words related to morning. Explore the unique words and the culture behind them.

The Kawanishi Dainenbutsu Kenbai dance tells the story of restless souls being guided to the Pure Land by the Buddha, in the form of a monkey. In 2022, it became UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage.

The Japanese Government has issued a large amount of bonds. With factors such as rising interest rates, it has entered a new phase. We take a closer look at the challenges of Japan's bond issue team.

Hop on from Narita, the air gateway to Japan. Flying above the active volcanoes, breathtaking window views await!

Join May J. for great Japanese music! This week, angela (a duo popular for anime songs) and SKE48 (a Nagoya-based sister group of AKB48) stop by the studio to chat and perform.

This program is an animation series about a Japanese dog, Charo. He meets and is helped by many mythical creatures of Northern Japan as he searches for eight star talismans. Tohoku series 1-8.

Five-minute shows presenting the limitless, kaleidoscopic appeal of Japanese culture, traditions, and lifestyles in sushi-sized helpings. (Digest versions of "Japanology Plus.").

Sanagijima Island is home to lots of free-roaming cats. Kuji rests on some cool shrine steps. Other cats hang out close to the sea, carefully making their way along a seawall. What are they doing?

Matera in southern Italy is a town carved into pale limestone cliffs. With its rows of cave dwellings, this city has been home to people for thousands of years and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Enjoy a beloved local ramen from snowy north! A steaming hot bowl that warms body and soul in the bitter cold.

Tsubo-niwa, life enhanced by quintessential spaces. Dive deep into the beauty of the ancient capital, still innovative 1,200 years after its foundation.

This time: making suggestions. Marianne from Philippines has worked for 2 years as a housekeeper in Tokyo. Her company wants her service to the next level by learning how to make recommendations.

Maro Kuratani knits scarves and other items with surplus yarn, using threads of varying color and thickness. She says yarn is the ultimate eco-friendly material as reknitting is always an option.

The Japanese Government has issued a large amount of bonds. With factors such as rising interest rates, it has entered a new phase. We take a closer look at the challenges of Japan's bond issue team.

Hop on from Narita, the air gateway to Japan. Flying above the active volcanoes, breathtaking window views await!

Matera in southern Italy is a town carved into pale limestone cliffs. With its rows of cave dwellings, this city has been home to people for thousands of years and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Join May J. for great Japanese music! This week, angela (a duo popular for anime songs) and SKE48 (a Nagoya-based sister group of AKB48) stop by the studio to chat and perform.

This program is an animation series about a Japanese dog, Charo. He meets and is helped by many mythical creatures of Northern Japan as he searches for eight star talismans. Tohoku series 1-8.

Five-minute shows presenting the limitless, kaleidoscopic appeal of Japanese culture, traditions, and lifestyles in sushi-sized helpings. (Digest versions of "Japanology Plus.").

Sanagijima Island is home to lots of free-roaming cats. Kuji rests on some cool shrine steps. Other cats hang out close to the sea, carefully making their way along a seawall. What are they doing?

Enjoy a beloved local ramen from snowy north! A steaming hot bowl that warms body and soul in the bitter cold.

Nishijin-ori, beauty synthesized in a Kyoto brocade. Dive deep into the beauty of the ancient capital, still innovative 1,200 years after its foundation.

This time: making suggestions. Marianne from Philippines has worked for 2 years as a housekeeper in Tokyo. Her company wants her service to the next level by learning how to make recommendations.

Maro Kuratani knits scarves and other items with surplus yarn, using threads of varying color and thickness. She says yarn is the ultimate eco-friendly material as reknitting is always an option.

The Japanese Government has issued a large amount of bonds. With factors such as rising interest rates, it has entered a new phase. We take a closer look at the challenges of Japan's bond issue team.

Hop on from Narita, the air gateway to Japan. Flying above the active volcanoes, breathtaking window views await!

Join May J. for great Japanese music! This week, angela (a duo popular for anime songs) and SKE48 (a Nagoya-based sister group of AKB48) stop by the studio to chat and perform.

This program is an animation series about a Japanese dog, Charo. He meets and is helped by many mythical creatures of Northern Japan as he searches for eight star talismans. Tohoku series 1-8.

Five-minute shows presenting the limitless, kaleidoscopic appeal of Japanese culture, traditions, and lifestyles in sushi-sized helpings. (Digest versions of "Japanology Plus.").

Sanagijima Island is home to lots of free-roaming cats. Kuji rests on some cool shrine steps. Other cats hang out close to the sea, carefully making their way along a seawall. What are they doing?

Matera in southern Italy is a town carved into pale limestone cliffs. With its rows of cave dwellings, this city has been home to people for thousands of years and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Enjoy a beloved local ramen from snowy north! A steaming hot bowl that warms body and soul in the bitter cold.

Kyoto Confections, experience Kyoto culture through all your senses. Dive deep into the ancient capital, still innovative 1,200 years after its foundation.

This time: making suggestions. Marianne from Philippines has worked for 2 years as a housekeeper in Tokyo. Her company wants her service to the next level by learning how to make recommendations.

Maro Kuratani knits scarves and other items with surplus yarn, using threads of varying color and thickness. She says yarn is the ultimate eco-friendly material as reknitting is always an option.

The Japanese Government has issued a large amount of bonds. With factors such as rising interest rates, it has entered a new phase. We take a closer look at the challenges of Japan's bond issue team.

Hop on from Narita, the air gateway to Japan. Flying above the active volcanoes, breathtaking window views await!

Join May J. for great Japanese music! This week, angela (a duo popular for anime songs) and SKE48 (a Nagoya-based sister group of AKB48) stop by the studio to chat and perform.

This program is an animation series about a Japanese dog, Charo. He meets and is helped by many mythical creatures of Northern Japan as he searches for eight star talismans. Tohoku series 1-8.

Five-minute shows presenting the limitless, kaleidoscopic appeal of Japanese culture, traditions, and lifestyles in sushi-sized helpings. (Digest versions of "Japanology Plus.").

Sanagijima Island is home to lots of free-roaming cats. Kuji rests on some cool shrine steps. Other cats hang out close to the sea, carefully making their way along a seawall. What are they doing?

Enjoy a beloved local ramen from snowy north! A steaming hot bowl that warms body and soul in the bitter cold.

Kyo-kanoko Shibori, untying the beauty bound within. Dive deep into the ancient capital, still innovative 1,200 years after its foundation.

This time: making suggestions. Marianne from Philippines has worked for 2 years as a housekeeper in Tokyo. Her company wants her service to the next level by learning how to make recommendations.

Maro Kuratani knits scarves and other items with surplus yarn, using threads of varying color and thickness. She says yarn is the ultimate eco-friendly material as reknitting is always an option.

Matera in southern Italy is a town carved into pale limestone cliffs. With its rows of cave dwellings, this city has been home to people for thousands of years and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.