NHK WORLD-JAPAN

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

Gojinjo Taiko is a wild, powerful performance by masked drummers. It originated 400 years ago, when villagers disguised themselves as oni (demons) to scare away a warlord's army.

We venture to the outskirts of Edo just after sunset, where a group of women and children have come to a stream to enjoy a popular summer activity. What could they be looking for among the weeds?

Japanese authorities are trying to recover thousands of toy guns that can fire live rounds with potentially lethal effect. NHK investigated how these dangerous products entered circulation.

Japanese researchers have been uncovering previously unknown effects of vitamin C in the body. We report on their latest findings, such as the power to strengthen the bones and prevent dementia.

Tokyo Skytree, one of Japan's most famous tourist attractions, is equipped with a variety of countermeasures against disasters. We'll go behind the scenes to explore the tower's advanced technologies.

Episode 3 of this series on COP30 in Brazil looks at AMOC, an ocean current in the Atlantic. It transports warm water to the north, but melting ice threatens to stop it entirely.

Oku-Izumo is home to an ancient technique for making the steel used in Japanese swords. We meet a blacksmith who has inherited the tradition, and enjoy local scenery presented in time-lapse images.

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

#17 I've been traveling around Japan. / To say what you've been doing, change "masu" at the end of a verb to "te imasu." "Ryokoo-shimasu" (I travel) becomes "ryokoo-shite imasu" (I've been traveling).

Is there a meal you'll never forget? People with international roots living in Japan take you on a tasty exploration of the dishes that brought timely emotional support in their lives.

Throughout April, NHK WORLD-JAPAN marks 10 years since the Kumamoto Earthquake by showing related programs. Learn about efforts to restore Kumamoto Castle, and the Minami-Aso Luna Observatory.

In Hokkaido, Steven Lefever visits the ski resort town of Niseko to discover its many summertime attractions.

Chef Saito introduces two classic Japanese dishes often served in Japanese homes: pork ginger and sunomono. You can enjoy the taste of Japanese home cooking, wherever you are!

On Tsushima Island in southwestern Japan, a small store stocks fresh produce and everyday items and delivers to homes, restaurants, schools and more. Join us for three days on the island.

Japanese researchers have been uncovering previously unknown effects of vitamin C in the body. We report on their latest findings, such as the power to strengthen the bones and prevent dementia.

Instead of throwing away things that are old or broken, Japan fixes and reuses them, the culture of "mottainai." Let's dig a little deeper.

Featured recipe: Buttered Mackerel with Ponzu/ Learn about Japanese home cooking with Master Chef Saito, based on traditional Japanese cooking techniques in five minutes!

In Hokkaido, Steven Lefever visits the ski resort town of Niseko to discover its many summertime attractions.

Chef Saito introduces two classic Japanese dishes often served in Japanese homes: pork ginger and sunomono. You can enjoy the taste of Japanese home cooking, wherever you are!

On Tsushima Island in southwestern Japan, a small store stocks fresh produce and everyday items and delivers to homes, restaurants, schools and more. Join us for three days on the island.

Tokyo Skytree, one of Japan's most famous tourist attractions, is equipped with a variety of countermeasures against disasters. We'll go behind the scenes to explore the tower's advanced technologies.

Japanese researchers have been uncovering previously unknown effects of vitamin C in the body. We report on their latest findings, such as the power to strengthen the bones and prevent dementia.

This episode focuses on how precision engineering and selective breeding are being used to reduce pollen and bring relief to millions of hay fever sufferers.

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

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

#17 I've been traveling around Japan. / To say what you've been doing, change "masu" at the end of a verb to "te imasu." "Ryokoo-shimasu" (I travel) becomes "ryokoo-shite imasu" (I've been traveling).

Chef Saito introduces two classic Japanese dishes often served in Japanese homes: pork ginger and sunomono. You can enjoy the taste of Japanese home cooking, wherever you are!

On Tsushima Island in southwestern Japan, a small store stocks fresh produce and everyday items and delivers to homes, restaurants, schools and more. Join us for three days on the island.

This episode looks at leaf-cutter ants that grow food, and shake their bodies to communicate through vibrations. Plus, humans might grow spare teeth.

In Hokkaido, Steven Lefever visits the ski resort town of Niseko to discover its many summertime attractions.

Instead of throwing away things that are old or broken, Japan fixes and reuses them, the culture of "mottainai." Let's dig a little deeper.

Featured recipe: Buttered Mackerel with Ponzu/ Learn about Japanese home cooking with Master Chef Saito, based on traditional Japanese cooking techniques in five minutes!

Chef Saito introduces two classic Japanese dishes often served in Japanese homes: pork ginger and sunomono. You can enjoy the taste of Japanese home cooking, wherever you are!

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

Yoshida Ryusei, an October matsuri, features rockets called ryusei that are made by local teams and carry community prayers high in the sky. Team members pour heart and soul into their efforts.

Workers at a sawmill use the latest tools and their honed skills to prepare the building blocks of Edo life: long, narrow beams, bamboo stems and leftover wood stacked as high as buildings.

Are you always tired and struggle to sleep? You may be suffering from undernutrition. The condition even affects people who believe they eat balanced meals. We look at the causes and fixes.

On Tsushima Island in southwestern Japan, a small store stocks fresh produce and everyday items and delivers to homes, restaurants, schools and more. Join us for three days on the island.

This episode looks at leaf-cutter ants that grow food, and shake their bodies to communicate through vibrations. Plus, humans might grow spare teeth.

In Hokkaido, Steven Lefever visits the ski resort town of Niseko to discover its many summertime attractions.

Chef Saito introduces two classic Japanese dishes often served in Japanese homes: pork ginger and sunomono. You can enjoy the taste of Japanese home cooking, wherever you are!

Instead of throwing away things that are old or broken, Japan fixes and reuses them, the culture of "mottainai." Let's dig a little deeper.

Featured recipe: Buttered Mackerel with Ponzu/ Learn about Japanese home cooking with Master Chef Saito, based on traditional Japanese cooking techniques in five minutes!

Join us as we explore Sendagaya, an area nestled between Shinjuku and Harajuku. It's home to sports facilities, venues for Noh theater and the board game shogi, and hundreds of apparel makers.

Ichiko Aoba puts distinctive, whispery vocals over floating, classical guitar melodies. We explore why her music captivates listeners around the world, despite being sung in Japanese.

Discover the stories behind renowned Japanese products alongside our reporter.This time: motorized conveyor rollers.

Fukuoka's summer festival, Hakata Gion Yamakasa, features huge floats decorated with elaborate dolls. We meet Nakamura Hiromine, a fourth-generation doll maker fusing this tradition with modern ideas.

This episode looks at leaf-cutter ants that grow food, and shake their bodies to communicate through vibrations. Plus, humans might grow spare teeth.

Crisp, hot, and delicious Japanese gyoza! How did gyoza come to be so beloved in Japan? Taste the delicious truth for yourself!

Join us as we explore Sendagaya, an area nestled between Shinjuku and Harajuku. It's home to sports facilities, venues for Noh theater and the board game shogi, and hundreds of apparel makers.

Ichiko Aoba puts distinctive, whispery vocals over floating, classical guitar melodies. We explore why her music captivates listeners around the world, despite being sung in Japanese.

Discover the stories behind renowned Japanese products alongside our reporter.This time: motorized conveyor rollers.

Fukuoka's summer festival, Hakata Gion Yamakasa, features huge floats decorated with elaborate dolls. We meet Nakamura Hiromine, a fourth-generation doll maker fusing this tradition with modern ideas.

Crisp, hot, and delicious Japanese gyoza! How did gyoza come to be so beloved in Japan? Taste the delicious truth for yourself!

This episode looks at leaf-cutter ants that grow food, and shake their bodies to communicate through vibrations. Plus, humans might grow spare teeth.

Tokyo Skytree, one of Japan's most famous tourist attractions, is equipped with a variety of countermeasures against disasters. We'll go behind the scenes to explore the tower's advanced technologies.

Episode 3 of this series on COP30 in Brazil looks at AMOC, an ocean current in the Atlantic. It transports warm water to the north, but melting ice threatens to stop it entirely.

Oku-Izumo is home to an ancient technique for making the steel used in Japanese swords. We meet a blacksmith who has inherited the tradition, and enjoy local scenery presented in time-lapse images.

Inoue Hiroko is the president of an NGO that has been running exchange programs for young people from Israel, Palestine, and Japan for 20 years. She talks about their goals and her hope for peace.

Gojinjo Taiko is a wild, powerful performance by masked drummers. It originated 400 years ago, when villagers disguised themselves as oni (demons) to scare away a warlord's army.

Workers at a sawmill use the latest tools and their honed skills to prepare the building blocks of Edo life: long, narrow beams, bamboo stems and leftover wood stacked as high as buildings.

Ichiko Aoba puts distinctive, whispery vocals over floating, classical guitar melodies. We explore why her music captivates listeners around the world, despite being sung in Japanese.

Discover the stories behind renowned Japanese products alongside our reporter.This time: motorized conveyor rollers.

Fukuoka's summer festival, Hakata Gion Yamakasa, features huge floats decorated with elaborate dolls. We meet Nakamura Hiromine, a fourth-generation doll maker fusing this tradition with modern ideas.

Join us as we explore Sendagaya, an area nestled between Shinjuku and Harajuku. It's home to sports facilities, venues for Noh theater and the board game shogi, and hundreds of apparel makers.

Crisp, hot, and delicious Japanese gyoza! How did gyoza come to be so beloved in Japan? Taste the delicious truth for yourself!

Ichiko Aoba puts distinctive, whispery vocals over floating, classical guitar melodies. We explore why her music captivates listeners around the world, despite being sung in Japanese.

Discover the stories behind renowned Japanese products alongside our reporter.This time: motorized conveyor rollers.

Inoue Hiroko is the president of an NGO that has been running exchange programs for young people from Israel, Palestine, and Japan for 20 years. She talks about their goals and her hope for peace.

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.

In the Edo period, childbirth was a community affair, with the mother-to-be attended by a midwife and the women in her life. It was also characterized by unique customs and superstitions.

This episode focuses on how precision engineering and selective breeding are being used to reduce pollen and bring relief to millions of hay fever sufferers.

Fukuoka's summer festival, Hakata Gion Yamakasa, features huge floats decorated with elaborate dolls. We meet Nakamura Hiromine, a fourth-generation doll maker fusing this tradition with modern ideas.

Join us as we explore Sendagaya, an area nestled between Shinjuku and Harajuku. It's home to sports facilities, venues for Noh theater and the board game shogi, and hundreds of apparel makers.

Ichiko Aoba puts distinctive, whispery vocals over floating, classical guitar melodies. We explore why her music captivates listeners around the world, despite being sung in Japanese.

Discover the stories behind renowned Japanese products alongside our reporter.This time: motorized conveyor rollers.

Crisp, hot, and delicious Japanese gyoza! How did gyoza come to be so beloved in Japan? Taste the delicious truth for yourself!

Rising temperatures are changing marine life. Sushi chains introduce unfamiliar fish, and researchers seek to breed species that can endure higher temperatures. This time, living with a warming sea.

Our bodies are home to trillions of bacteria that influence our physical health and mental well-being. We explore Japan's relationship with fermented foods and "chokatsu" or gut-related activities.

Visit one of Japan's engineering marvels, an auto and train bridge spanning six islands, and meet the dedicated crew working to keep it as good as new for the next 200 years.

Rising temperatures are changing marine life. Sushi chains introduce unfamiliar fish, and researchers seek to breed species that can endure higher temperatures. This time, living with a warming sea.

Our bodies are home to trillions of bacteria that influence our physical health and mental well-being. We explore Japan's relationship with fermented foods and "chokatsu" or gut-related activities.

Visit one of Japan's engineering marvels, an auto and train bridge spanning six islands, and meet the dedicated crew working to keep it as good as new for the next 200 years.

Rising temperatures are changing marine life. Sushi chains introduce unfamiliar fish, and researchers seek to breed species that can endure higher temperatures. This time, living with a warming sea.

In 2025, Otani Akira's book "The Night of Baba Yaga" won the UKs prestigious Dagger prize for crime fiction in translation-a first for a Japanese author. She shares the inspiration behind her work.

Yoshida Ryusei, an October matsuri, features rockets called ryusei that are made by local teams and carry community prayers high in the sky. Team members pour heart and soul into their efforts.

In the Edo period, childbirth was a community affair, with the mother-to-be attended by a midwife and the women in her life. It was also characterized by unique customs and superstitions.

Our bodies are home to trillions of bacteria that influence our physical health and mental well-being. We explore Japan's relationship with fermented foods and "chokatsu" or gut-related activities.

The JR Joban Line, severely damaged by the Great East Japan Earthquake in 2011, fully reopened in 2020. See how station areas in Fukushima Prefecture are being redeveloped along the restored route.

Rising temperatures are changing marine life. Sushi chains introduce unfamiliar fish, and researchers seek to breed species that can endure higher temperatures. This time, living with a warming sea.

Visit one of Japan's engineering marvels, an auto and train bridge spanning six islands, and meet the dedicated crew working to keep it as good as new for the next 200 years.

In 2025, Otani Akira's book "The Night of Baba Yaga" won the UKs prestigious Dagger prize for crime fiction in translation-a first for a Japanese author. She shares the inspiration behind her work.

The highlight of Onabare is nerikomi, which involves the careful wielding of a long, heavy pole. This follows the parade of a portable shrine through the streets with performances along the way.

A group of anglers stand in a fast-moving, undulating river at the foot of a rugged cliff. They use "drifting mosquito hooks" to fish for a summer delicacy that was a favorite of the Edo townspeople.

Our bodies are home to trillions of bacteria that influence our physical health and mental well-being. We explore Japan's relationship with fermented foods and "chokatsu" or gut-related activities.

The JR Joban Line, severely damaged by the Great East Japan Earthquake in 2011, fully reopened in 2020. See how station areas in Fukushima Prefecture are being redeveloped along the restored route.

Rising temperatures are changing marine life. Sushi chains introduce unfamiliar fish, and researchers seek to breed species that can endure higher temperatures. This time, living with a warming sea.

Visit one of Japan's engineering marvels, an auto and train bridge spanning six islands, and meet the dedicated crew working to keep it as good as new for the next 200 years.

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

The exile of President Marcos Sr. was hailed as a victory for democracy in the Philippines, but with the election of his son 36 years later, shifting views affect how history may be perceived.

At the Imperial Palace, thoughtful preparation and meticulous attention to detail contribute to a warm welcome for distinguished guests. Join us as we go behind the scenes.

The JR Joban Line, severely damaged by the Great East Japan Earthquake in 2011, fully reopened in 2020. See how station areas in Fukushima Prefecture are being redeveloped along the restored route.

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

The exile of President Marcos Sr. was hailed as a victory for democracy in the Philippines, but with the election of his son 36 years later, shifting views affect how history may be perceived.

At the Imperial Palace, thoughtful preparation and meticulous attention to detail contribute to a warm welcome for distinguished guests. Join us as we go behind the scenes.

On Tsushima Island in southwestern Japan, a small store stocks fresh produce and everyday items and delivers to homes, restaurants, schools and more. Join us for three days on the island.

The JR Joban Line, severely damaged by the Great East Japan Earthquake in 2011, fully reopened in 2020. See how station areas in Fukushima Prefecture are being redeveloped along the restored route.

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

Umemoto Ayaka is captain of the Japan women's national deaf volleyball team. She and her teammates, who include her twin sister Sayaka, are aiming for the gold at the 2025 Tokyo Deaflympics.

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.

A Nepalese nursing home manager in Fukuoka Prefecture harnesses his background in IT and his diverse staff to give elderly residents and their families peace of mind.

The exile of President Marcos Sr. was hailed as a victory for democracy in the Philippines, but with the election of his son 36 years later, shifting views affect how history may be perceived.

At the Imperial Palace, thoughtful preparation and meticulous attention to detail contribute to a warm welcome for distinguished guests. Join us as we go behind the scenes.

Today's theme: Bodies. As AI, digital and virtual spaces take over, thinking about physical bodies is more important than ever. Explore the role of designs which are rooted in human physicality.

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

Fukuoka's summer festival, Hakata Gion Yamakasa, features huge floats decorated with elaborate dolls. We meet Nakamura Hiromine, a fourth-generation doll maker fusing this tradition with modern ideas.

The exile of President Marcos Sr. was hailed as a victory for democracy in the Philippines, but with the election of his son 36 years later, shifting views affect how history may be perceived.

Umemoto Ayaka is captain of the Japan women's national deaf volleyball team. She and her teammates, who include her twin sister Sayaka, are aiming for the gold at the 2025 Tokyo Deaflympics.

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.

For a time during the Edo period, fireworks lit up the skies practically every night in the summer. It was a chance for women to dress up and let loose ... and grab the attention of male suitors.

Japanese researchers have been uncovering previously unknown effects of vitamin C in the body. We report on their latest findings, such as the power to strengthen the bones and prevent dementia.

At the Imperial Palace, thoughtful preparation and meticulous attention to detail contribute to a warm welcome for distinguished guests. Join us as we go behind the scenes.

Today's theme: Bodies. As AI, digital and virtual spaces take over, thinking about physical bodies is more important than ever. Explore the role of designs which are rooted in human physicality.

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

The exile of President Marcos Sr. was hailed as a victory for democracy in the Philippines, but with the election of his son 36 years later, shifting views affect how history may be perceived.

A Nepalese nursing home manager in Fukuoka Prefecture harnesses his background in IT and his diverse staff to give elderly residents and their families peace of mind.

Discover the stories behind renowned Japanese products alongside our reporter.This time: motorized conveyor rollers.

Our bodies are home to trillions of bacteria that influence our physical health and mental well-being. We explore Japan's relationship with fermented foods and "chokatsu" or gut-related activities.

March 2011.The worst-case scenario for the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear accident involved the evacuation of all of eastern Japan. But a secret plan to contain the crisis was being prepared.

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

This doctor can change the future of lung cancer, the cancer that causes the most deaths. We follow him as he pursues new cancer treatment at the head of a team of the world's best in Toronto, Canada.

Today's theme: Bodies. As AI, digital and virtual spaces take over, thinking about physical bodies is more important than ever. Explore the role of designs which are rooted in human physicality.

Japanese fireworks have long enchanted people with their spherical shape and range of colors. We trace the rise of fireworks in Japan and also examine the 400-year-old mystery of the senko hanabi.

Kyle Card hikes along the 1000km trail following the Pacific Coast in northern Japanwhere he discovers local lifestyles, stunning nature, traces of the area's 2011 disaster, and resilient people.

With its splendid branches and white plum blossoms, this famous painting is known for captivating Van Gogh. Discover why people were able to tell this was a specific tree at Kameido Umeyashiki.

Morinaga Kunihiko (Fashion designer)visits Amami Oshima, Kagoshima. Priestesses on Amami wore patchwork robes with triangular butterfly designs, intended to protect the wearer from unseen spirits.

Actor Kataoka Ainosuke explores "The Battles of Coxinga" by Chikamatsu Monzaemon. It's an epic tale with a Sino-Japanese hero taking up arms in China for the family his father once served.

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

Japanese fireworks have long enchanted people with their spherical shape and range of colors. We trace the rise of fireworks in Japan and also examine the 400-year-old mystery of the senko hanabi.

Kyle Card hikes along the 1000km trail following the Pacific Coast in northern Japanwhere he discovers local lifestyles, stunning nature, traces of the area's 2011 disaster, and resilient people.

With its splendid branches and white plum blossoms, this famous painting is known for captivating Van Gogh. Discover why people were able to tell this was a specific tree at Kameido Umeyashiki.

Today's theme: Bodies. As AI, digital and virtual spaces take over, thinking about physical bodies is more important than ever. Explore the role of designs which are rooted in human physicality.

This doctor can change the future of lung cancer, the cancer that causes the most deaths. We follow him as he pursues new cancer treatment at the head of a team of the world's best in Toronto, Canada.

Morinaga Kunihiko (Fashion designer)visits Amami Oshima, Kagoshima. Priestesses on Amami wore patchwork robes with triangular butterfly designs, intended to protect the wearer from unseen spirits.

Actor Kataoka Ainosuke explores "The Battles of Coxinga" by Chikamatsu Monzaemon. It's an epic tale with a Sino-Japanese hero taking up arms in China for the family his father once served.

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

Oze National Park contains the largest mountain wetland in Japan. See the beauty of Oze as time-lapse photography makes the flowers and the morning dew come alive.

This doctor can change the future of lung cancer, the cancer that causes the most deaths. We follow him as he pursues new cancer treatment at the head of a team of the world's best in Toronto, Canada.

Japanese fireworks have long enchanted people with their spherical shape and range of colors. We trace the rise of fireworks in Japan and also examine the 400-year-old mystery of the senko hanabi.

Kyle Card hikes along the 1000km trail following the Pacific Coast in northern Japanwhere he discovers local lifestyles, stunning nature, traces of the area's 2011 disaster, and resilient people.

With its splendid branches and white plum blossoms, this famous painting is known for captivating Van Gogh. Discover why people were able to tell this was a specific tree at Kameido Umeyashiki.

Morinaga Kunihiko (Fashion designer)visits Amami Oshima, Kagoshima. Priestesses on Amami wore patchwork robes with triangular butterfly designs, intended to protect the wearer from unseen spirits.

Actor Kataoka Ainosuke explores "The Battles of Coxinga" by Chikamatsu Monzaemon. It's an epic tale with a Sino-Japanese hero taking up arms in China for the family his father once served.

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

Oze National Park contains the largest mountain wetland in Japan. See the beauty of Oze as time-lapse photography makes the flowers and the morning dew come alive.

This doctor can change the future of lung cancer, the cancer that causes the most deaths. We follow him as he pursues new cancer treatment at the head of a team of the world's best in Toronto, Canada.

Japanese fireworks have long enchanted people with their spherical shape and range of colors. We trace the rise of fireworks in Japan and also examine the 400-year-old mystery of the senko hanabi.

Kyle Card hikes along the 1000km trail following the Pacific Coast in northern Japanwhere he discovers local lifestyles, stunning nature, traces of the area's 2011 disaster, and resilient people.

With its splendid branches and white plum blossoms, this famous painting is known for captivating Van Gogh. Discover why people were able to tell this was a specific tree at Kameido Umeyashiki.

Morinaga Kunihiko (Fashion designer)visits Amami Oshima, Kagoshima. Priestesses on Amami wore patchwork robes with triangular butterfly designs, intended to protect the wearer from unseen spirits.

Actor Kataoka Ainosuke explores "The Battles of Coxinga" by Chikamatsu Monzaemon. It's an epic tale with a Sino-Japanese hero taking up arms in China for the family his father once served.