NHK WORLD-JAPAN

Japanese comedian Tonikaku, also known as Tonikaku Akarui Yasumura in Japan, has garnered big laughs with his "naked" act. We take a look at how he is bringing Japanese comedy to overseas audiences.

Bonsai is a living art form that requires attention to detail and patience. For three days, we asked visitors to a hub of bonsai nurseries near Tokyo about the appeal of bonsai in a fast-paced world.

Railway news from the latter half of 2025. Join us as we look back on new railway vehicles, cutting-edge technologies, commemorative events and more from across Japan.

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.

Food waste is a major driver of global warming. One institute warns that greenhouse gas emissions from food waste exceed those of nations like India and Russia. We examine the data behind this issue.

A Chinese woman living in Japan holds gatherings for Chinese children with the goal of boosting their confidence in their international background.

Recently popular in China are "otome games" allowing female gamers to experience romance with male characters. Services providing costumed dates have emerged as a related business for fans.

Japanese comedian Tonikaku, also known as Tonikaku Akarui Yasumura in Japan, has garnered big laughs with his "naked" act. We take a look at how he is bringing Japanese comedy to overseas audiences.

Today's theme: Designing for portability. The spotlight is on portable and mobile designs. From lighting to houses and transport, explore the appeal and potential of designing for portability.

Health tech entrepreneur Ajima Masumi has developed an app to analyze the condition of children with developmental disorders, aiming to help them reach their potential regardless of their background.

Recently popular in China are "otome games" allowing female gamers to experience romance with male characters. Services providing costumed dates have emerged as a related business for fans.

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.

Food waste is a major driver of global warming. One institute warns that greenhouse gas emissions from food waste exceed those of nations like India and Russia. We examine the data behind this issue.

A series of doodles by the famous artist Utagawa Kuniyoshi turn out to be carefully considered depictions of the kabuki actors of the day. What kind of artistic statement was he trying to make?

Japanese comedian Tonikaku, also known as Tonikaku Akarui Yasumura in Japan, has garnered big laughs with his "naked" act. We take a look at how he is bringing Japanese comedy to overseas audiences.

Today's theme: Designing for portability. The spotlight is on portable and mobile designs. From lighting to houses and transport, explore the appeal and potential of designing for portability.

Recently popular in China are "otome games" allowing female gamers to experience romance with male characters. Services providing costumed dates have emerged as a related business for fans.

A Chinese woman living in Japan holds gatherings for Chinese children with the goal of boosting their confidence in their international background.

Discover the stories behind renowned Japanese products alongside our reporter. This time: capsule beds.

Japanese confectionery has evolved over centuries, shaped by influences from China and beyond. In Kyoto, artisans honor tradition while advancing the craft with a fresh, modern sensibility.

Forty years ago, Akamatsu Ryoko, a visionary woman advocated for the passage of Japan's Equal Employment Opportunity Act. Now, a new generation continues the fight for gender equality.

Bulgarian-born Kotooshu was the first European to become an Ozeki. He even beat two powerful Yokozuna to win a tournament in 2008. We dive into his career through archival footage and interviews.

Travel northern Kyushu on the JR Kyudai Line that follows the course of the Chikugo River and its tributaries. Discover how residents live with the blessings and trouble the wild rivers bring.

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

Today's theme: Designing for portability. The spotlight is on portable and mobile designs. From lighting to houses and transport, explore the appeal and potential of designing for portability.

Himeji Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, boasts the tallest, extant main keep in Japan. The elegant main keep and the sub-keeps are connected by corridors, forming a sturdy defense.

Join our explorers as they pursue the cinematic beauty of Japan. Kyle Card hikes the newly designated long trail around majestic Mt. Fuji and discovers its secrets.

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?

What is causing the frequent torrential rain and floods in Japan? Linear rainbands. Find out why this phenomenon is hard to predict and the latest research on forecasting linear rainbands.

NHK WORLD-JAPAN presents a variety of short programs focusing on Japan and Asia.

Kabuki dance started as a showpiece for a female character, but then dances for male characters appeared - dances daring, comical, and acrobatic!

Forty years ago, Akamatsu Ryoko, a visionary woman advocated for the passage of Japan's Equal Employment Opportunity Act. Now, a new generation continues the fight for gender equality.

Bulgarian-born Kotooshu was the first European to become an Ozeki. He even beat two powerful Yokozuna to win a tournament in 2008. We dive into his career through archival footage and interviews.

Himeji Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, boasts the tallest, extant main keep in Japan. The elegant main keep and the sub-keeps are connected by corridors, forming a sturdy defense.

Join our explorers as they pursue the cinematic beauty of Japan. Kyle Card hikes the newly designated long trail around majestic Mt. Fuji and discovers its secrets.

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?

Today's theme: Designing for portability. The spotlight is on portable and mobile designs. From lighting to houses and transport, explore the appeal and potential of designing for portability.

Travel northern Kyushu on the JR Kyudai Line that follows the course of the Chikugo River and its tributaries. Discover how residents live with the blessings and trouble the wild rivers bring.

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

What is causing the frequent torrential rain and floods in Japan? Linear rainbands. Find out why this phenomenon is hard to predict and the latest research on forecasting linear rainbands.

NHK WORLD-JAPAN presents a variety of short programs focusing on Japan and Asia.

Kabuki dance started as a showpiece for a female character, but then dances for male characters appeared - dances daring, comical, and acrobatic!

Forty years ago, Akamatsu Ryoko, a visionary woman advocated for the passage of Japan's Equal Employment Opportunity Act. Now, a new generation continues the fight for gender equality.

Bulgarian-born Kotooshu was the first European to become an Ozeki. He even beat two powerful Yokozuna to win a tournament in 2008. We dive into his career through archival footage and interviews.

Travel northern Kyushu on the JR Kyudai Line that follows the course of the Chikugo River and its tributaries. Discover how residents live with the blessings and trouble the wild rivers bring.

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

Himeji Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, boasts the tallest, extant main keep in Japan. The elegant main keep and the sub-keeps are connected by corridors, forming a sturdy defense.

Join our explorers as they pursue the cinematic beauty of Japan. Kyle Card hikes the newly designated long trail around majestic Mt. Fuji and discovers its secrets.

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?

What is causing the frequent torrential rain and floods in Japan? Linear rainbands. Find out why this phenomenon is hard to predict and the latest research on forecasting linear rainbands.

NHK WORLD-JAPAN presents a variety of short programs focusing on Japan and Asia.

Kabuki dance started as a showpiece for a female character, but then dances for male characters appeared - dances daring, comical, and acrobatic!

Forty years ago, Akamatsu Ryoko, a visionary woman advocated for the passage of Japan's Equal Employment Opportunity Act. Now, a new generation continues the fight for gender equality.

Bulgarian-born Kotooshu was the first European to become an Ozeki. He even beat two powerful Yokozuna to win a tournament in 2008. We dive into his career through archival footage and interviews.

Travel northern Kyushu on the JR Kyudai Line that follows the course of the Chikugo River and its tributaries. Discover how residents live with the blessings and trouble the wild rivers bring.

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

Himeji Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, boasts the tallest, extant main keep in Japan. The elegant main keep and the sub-keeps are connected by corridors, forming a sturdy defense.

Join our explorers as they pursue the cinematic beauty of Japan. Kyle Card hikes the newly designated long trail around majestic Mt. Fuji and discovers its secrets.

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?

What is causing the frequent torrential rain and floods in Japan? Linear rainbands. Find out why this phenomenon is hard to predict and the latest research on forecasting linear rainbands.

NHK WORLD-JAPAN presents a variety of short programs focusing on Japan and Asia.

Kabuki dance started as a showpiece for a female character, but then dances for male characters appeared - dances daring, comical, and acrobatic!

What are "words"? What does it mean to communicate? Deaf photographer Saito Harumichi seeks answers as he raises his hearing children and prepares an exhibition reflecting his quest for connection.

An oasis in the heart of Tokyo with ties to the post-World War II US occupation, this restaurant has shaped Japanese food trends for over 100 years.

Although it is rarely seen in regular bouts, usage of the underarm throw increases in high-stakes championship matches. We relive legendary moments and learn the secrets users of the technique.

Tune in to J-MELO for great Japanese music! This week: Tsubaki Factory (a popular group in the Hello! Project collective) and Fukuhara Miho (a singer-songwriter with a soulful voice).

Little Charo is an animation series about a Japanese dog who got lost in NY. "I want to see my owner again!" Charo starts his adventure back home. Season 1-10.

In Japan, garbage is incinerated before being used for land reclamation, but space is running out. We explore new approaches to waste, such as biogas power generation and a litter-picking app.

Oolong lives at a guesthouse in Atami, a city nestled between the mountains and the sea. Elsewhere, six cats live in a house with an ocean view. They sometimes sit in on their owner's yoga lessons.

This episode features "FUNclusion Day," a day when people with and without disabilities can enjoy playing and chatting together, as well as other fun segments. It energizes kids.

Dumaguete, "the City of Gentle People", is on Negros Island in the tropical Philippines. It's a town of calm, kind-hearted people with several universities that add youthful, intellectual energy.

An investigation of a female insect with a penis-like sex organ earned entomologist Yoshizawa Kazunori an Ig Nobel Prize in 2017. We learn about his lifelong quest to identify unknown species.

The Culture of Gold Leaf, gossamer layers beget profound beauty. Dive deep into the ancient capital, still innovative 1,200 years after its foundation.

Today: identifying your chance to speak at a meeting. Timothy James Mahrt, from the United States, works at an IT firm in Tokyo. He has difficulty finding the right time to speak up.

Clockmaker Takumi Ada spends his days repairing clocks damaged in a massive earthquake that struck the Noto Peninsula in 2024. He also helps the clocks' owners recover some of the time they've lost.

What are "words"? What does it mean to communicate? Deaf photographer Saito Harumichi seeks answers as he raises his hearing children and prepares an exhibition reflecting his quest for connection.

Although it is rarely seen in regular bouts, usage of the underarm throw increases in high-stakes championship matches. We relive legendary moments and learn the secrets users of the technique.

Dumaguete, "the City of Gentle People", is on Negros Island in the tropical Philippines. It's a town of calm, kind-hearted people with several universities that add youthful, intellectual energy.

This episode features "FUNclusion Day," a day when people with and without disabilities can enjoy playing and chatting together, as well as other fun segments. It energizes kids.

Tune in to J-MELO for great Japanese music! This week: Tsubaki Factory (a popular group in the Hello! Project collective) and Fukuhara Miho (a singer-songwriter with a soulful voice).

Little Charo is an animation series about a Japanese dog who got lost in NY. "I want to see my owner again!" Charo starts his adventure back home. Season 1-10.

In Japan, garbage is incinerated before being used for land reclamation, but space is running out. We explore new approaches to waste, such as biogas power generation and a litter-picking app.

Oolong lives at a guesthouse in Atami, a city nestled between the mountains and the sea. Elsewhere, six cats live in a house with an ocean view. They sometimes sit in on their owner's yoga lessons.

An investigation of a female insect with a penis-like sex organ earned entomologist Yoshizawa Kazunori an Ig Nobel Prize in 2017. We learn about his lifelong quest to identify unknown species.

The Culture of Gold Leaf, gossamer layers beget profound beauty. Dive deep into the ancient capital, still innovative 1,200 years after its foundation.

Today: identifying your chance to speak at a meeting. Timothy James Mahrt, from the United States, works at an IT firm in Tokyo. He has difficulty finding the right time to speak up.

Clockmaker Takumi Ada spends his days repairing clocks damaged in a massive earthquake that struck the Noto Peninsula in 2024. He also helps the clocks' owners recover some of the time they've lost.

What are "words"? What does it mean to communicate? Deaf photographer Saito Harumichi seeks answers as he raises his hearing children and prepares an exhibition reflecting his quest for connection.

Although it is rarely seen in regular bouts, usage of the underarm throw increases in high-stakes championship matches. We relive legendary moments and learn the secrets users of the technique.

This episode features "FUNclusion Day," a day when people with and without disabilities can enjoy playing and chatting together, as well as other fun segments. It energizes kids.

Tune in to J-MELO for great Japanese music! This week: Tsubaki Factory (a popular group in the Hello! Project collective) and Fukuhara Miho (a singer-songwriter with a soulful voice).

Little Charo is an animation series about a Japanese dog who got lost in NY. "I want to see my owner again!" Charo starts his adventure back home. Season 1-10.

In Japan, garbage is incinerated before being used for land reclamation, but space is running out. We explore new approaches to waste, such as biogas power generation and a litter-picking app.

Oolong lives at a guesthouse in Atami, a city nestled between the mountains and the sea. Elsewhere, six cats live in a house with an ocean view. They sometimes sit in on their owner's yoga lessons.

Dumaguete, "the City of Gentle People", is on Negros Island in the tropical Philippines. It's a town of calm, kind-hearted people with several universities that add youthful, intellectual energy.

An investigation of a female insect with a penis-like sex organ earned entomologist Yoshizawa Kazunori an Ig Nobel Prize in 2017. We learn about his lifelong quest to identify unknown species.

The Culture of Gold Leaf, gossamer layers beget profound beauty. Dive deep into the ancient capital, still innovative 1,200 years after its foundation.

Today: identifying your chance to speak at a meeting. Timothy James Mahrt, from the United States, works at an IT firm in Tokyo. He has difficulty finding the right time to speak up.

Clockmaker Takumi Ada spends his days repairing clocks damaged in a massive earthquake that struck the Noto Peninsula in 2024. He also helps the clocks' owners recover some of the time they've lost.

What are "words"? What does it mean to communicate? Deaf photographer Saito Harumichi seeks answers as he raises his hearing children and prepares an exhibition reflecting his quest for connection.

An oasis in the heart of Tokyo with ties to the post-World War II US occupation, this restaurant has shaped Japanese food trends for over 100 years.

Although it is rarely seen in regular bouts, usage of the underarm throw increases in high-stakes championship matches. We relive legendary moments and learn the secrets users of the technique.

This episode features "FUNclusion Day," a day when people with and without disabilities can enjoy playing and chatting together, as well as other fun segments. It energizes kids.

Tune in to J-MELO for great Japanese music! This week: Tsubaki Factory (a popular group in the Hello! Project collective) and Fukuhara Miho (a singer-songwriter with a soulful voice).

Little Charo is an animation series about a Japanese dog who got lost in NY. "I want to see my owner again!" Charo starts his adventure back home. Season 1-10.

In Japan, garbage is incinerated before being used for land reclamation, but space is running out. We explore new approaches to waste, such as biogas power generation and a litter-picking app.

Oolong lives at a guesthouse in Atami, a city nestled between the mountains and the sea. Elsewhere, six cats live in a house with an ocean view. They sometimes sit in on their owner's yoga lessons.

An investigation of a female insect with a penis-like sex organ earned entomologist Yoshizawa Kazunori an Ig Nobel Prize in 2017. We learn about his lifelong quest to identify unknown species.

The Culture of Gold Leaf, gossamer layers beget profound beauty. Dive deep into the ancient capital, still innovative 1,200 years after its foundation.

Today: identifying your chance to speak at a meeting. Timothy James Mahrt, from the United States, works at an IT firm in Tokyo. He has difficulty finding the right time to speak up.

Clockmaker Takumi Ada spends his days repairing clocks damaged in a massive earthquake that struck the Noto Peninsula in 2024. He also helps the clocks' owners recover some of the time they've lost.

Dumaguete, "the City of Gentle People", is on Negros Island in the tropical Philippines. It's a town of calm, kind-hearted people with several universities that add youthful, intellectual energy.

A Chinese woman living in Japan holds gatherings for Chinese children with the goal of boosting their confidence in their international background.

Food waste is a major driver of global warming. One institute warns that greenhouse gas emissions from food waste exceed those of nations like India and Russia. We examine the data behind this issue.

NHK WORLD-JAPAN presents a variety of short programs focusing on Japan and Asia.

Our team visits a heat-resistant glass factory in Koga, Ibaraki Pref., to witness the skills of the glassblowers and lampworkers, and learn about the secrets that heat-resistant glass holds.

The delicious bonito Tosa is known for spoils easily, and the flavor varies greatly. Fishmongers at a local port know exactly how to spot the best ones. Watch them in action, in time-lapse.

NHK WORLD-JAPAN presents a variety of short programs focusing on Japan and Asia.

What is causing the frequent torrential rain and floods in Japan? Linear rainbands. Find out why this phenomenon is hard to predict and the latest research on forecasting linear rainbands.

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

#24 I can't eat raw eggs. / If there's something you can't or don't want to eat, say the name of the item and "wa taberaremasen.".

Efforts to save children have evolved in a unique way, energizing people who provide services. We introduce a splendid international example of such an initiative in Matsuyama, Ehime Prefecture.

We introduce the English-language versions of two "edutainment" programs for kids: The Wakey Show, with DJ Wakey and a cast of puppets, and I Love 'Mee', an animation exploring everyday questions.

Join us on a night flight to admire Japan's stunning views on a journey from Tokyo to Fukuoka. Behold the sublime beauty of Mt. Fuji at sunset and the sparkling night views of major cities.

Our team visits a heat-resistant glass factory in Koga, Ibaraki Pref., to witness the skills of the glassblowers and lampworkers, and learn about the secrets that heat-resistant glass holds.

The delicious bonito Tosa is known for spoils easily, and the flavor varies greatly. Fishmongers at a local port know exactly how to spot the best ones. Watch them in action, in time-lapse.

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

#24 I can't eat raw eggs. / If there's something you can't or don't want to eat, say the name of the item and "wa taberaremasen.".

Efforts to save children have evolved in a unique way, energizing people who provide services. We introduce a splendid international example of such an initiative in Matsuyama, Ehime Prefecture.

We introduce the English-language versions of two "edutainment" programs for kids: The Wakey Show, with DJ Wakey and a cast of puppets, and I Love 'Mee', an animation exploring everyday questions.

Join us on a night flight to admire Japan's stunning views on a journey from Tokyo to Fukuoka. Behold the sublime beauty of Mt. Fuji at sunset and the sparkling night views of major cities.

Food writer David Conklin gets up close to the Buddhas and gods of the mystical Kunisaki Peninsula, visits with locals, and experiences a scintillating fire festival.

Our team visits a heat-resistant glass factory in Koga, Ibaraki Pref., to witness the skills of the glassblowers and lampworkers, and learn about the secrets that heat-resistant glass holds.

The delicious bonito Tosa is known for spoils easily, and the flavor varies greatly. Fishmongers at a local port know exactly how to spot the best ones. Watch them in action, in time-lapse.

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.

Efforts to save children have evolved in a unique way, energizing people who provide services. We introduce a splendid international example of such an initiative in Matsuyama, Ehime Prefecture.

We introduce the English-language versions of two "edutainment" programs for kids: The Wakey Show, with DJ Wakey and a cast of puppets, and I Love 'Mee', an animation exploring everyday questions.

The popular Ebisu district developed alongside a brewery and even derives its name from beer. We trace the area's evolution, soak up its old-fashioned charm, and see what makes the community tick.

Biologic drugs, made mainly from antibodies, have transformed the approach to treating chronic inflammatory diseases such as asthma and rheumatoid arthritis. We explore their mechanisms and potential.

Our team visits a heat-resistant glass factory in Koga, Ibaraki Pref., to witness the skills of the glassblowers and lampworkers, and learn about the secrets that heat-resistant glass holds.

The delicious bonito Tosa is known for spoils easily, and the flavor varies greatly. Fishmongers at a local port know exactly how to spot the best ones. Watch them in action, in time-lapse.

Join us on a night flight to admire Japan's stunning views on a journey from Tokyo to Fukuoka. Behold the sublime beauty of Mt. Fuji at sunset and the sparkling night views of major cities.

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

#24 I can't eat raw eggs. / If there's something you can't or don't want to eat, say the name of the item and "wa taberaremasen.".

Efforts to save children have evolved in a unique way, energizing people who provide services. We introduce a splendid international example of such an initiative in Matsuyama, Ehime Prefecture.

We introduce the English-language versions of two "edutainment" programs for kids: The Wakey Show, with DJ Wakey and a cast of puppets, and I Love 'Mee', an animation exploring everyday questions.

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.

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?

DNA testing is a crucial tool in criminal investigations, even helping to overturn wrongful convictions. But a major scandal at a police department in Japan has cast doubt on its credibility.

Biologic drugs, made mainly from antibodies, have transformed the approach to treating chronic inflammatory diseases such as asthma and rheumatoid arthritis. We explore their mechanisms and potential.

What is causing the frequent torrential rain and floods in Japan? Linear rainbands. Find out why this phenomenon is hard to predict and the latest research on forecasting linear rainbands.

Food waste is a major driver of global warming. One institute warns that greenhouse gas emissions from food waste exceed those of nations like India and Russia. We examine the data behind this issue.

Shimauta is the soul music of Amami Oshima. Islanders have long used it to convey feelings in good times and bad. The history of the music and of the island itself is conveyed in time-lapse footage.

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

#24 I can't eat raw eggs. / If there's something you can't or don't want to eat, say the name of the item and "wa taberaremasen.".

Efforts to save children have evolved in a unique way, energizing people who provide services. We introduce a splendid international example of such an initiative in Matsuyama, Ehime Prefecture.

We introduce the English-language versions of two "edutainment" programs for kids: The Wakey Show, with DJ Wakey and a cast of puppets, and I Love 'Mee', an animation exploring everyday questions.

Join us on a night flight to admire Japan's stunning views on a journey from Tokyo to Fukuoka. Behold the sublime beauty of Mt. Fuji at sunset and the sparkling night views of major cities.