NHK WORLD-JAPAN

Kumamoto is recovering from the 2016 earthquake. A piano is placed in a shopping arcade for a limited period, and people stop to play from their heart.

Join Harry Sugiyama and Chef Hayashi to learn about a unique, time-honored sushi style featuring yam and eggs instead of rice. They introduce the traditional method, and a simplified version.

Daniel Moore takes a cinematic journey through Nagano. In springtime he hits the south, experiencing the breathtaking cherry blossoms, and in winter gets lost in magical winter landscapes up north.

Niigata's Sanjo City is considered the birthplace of curry ramen. A metalworking city, it also produces ramen utensils!

Eighty-one years after World War II ended, people across Japan are still sowing seeds of peace. Dig a little deeper, meeting people committed to peace.

Featured recipe: Ginger Chicken Wings/ Learn about easy, delicious, and healthy cooking with Chef Rika in five minutes!

Sweltering Summers Inspire New Products: This episode features new products that were developed in response to Japan's intense summer heat.

Ryogoku is known as the home of sumo. As we explore, we learn how the sport took root after a devastating fire in the 17th century. It turns out that the neighborhood has a history of bouncing back!

Kumamoto is recovering from the 2016 earthquake. A piano is placed in a shopping arcade for a limited period, and people stop to play from their heart.

Matsufuji Yasushi has been promoting the Fukuoka Method of waste disposal in developing countries dealing with population growth and urbanization. He talks about the low-cost, eco-friendly approach.

Discover the stories behind renowned Japanese products alongside our reporter. This time: concentrated laundry detergent.

Sweltering Summers Inspire New Products: This episode features new products that were developed in response to Japan's intense summer heat.

1 in 1000 Japanese have experience as a lay judge in court cases. We witness a networking event for former lay judges, where they discuss unique experiences. What does it feel like to judge others?

Dr. Oshiro Kazue is a skilled mountain medic, dedicated to promoting awareness of alpine safety, and even spending her summers treating climbers from a cabin near the peak of the iconic Mt. Fuji.

A week into the new year, giant torches are lit in a shrine precinct. The shadows they create enable a demon-oni-to go to a river and cleanse people of troubles. This is Oniyo: the night of the oni.

A survey expedition field tests new equipment to automate the mapping of marine plastics. Plus, using robots, AI, and VR to study how humans learn to think.

Sweltering Summers Inspire New Products: This episode features new products that were developed in response to Japan's intense summer heat.

During WWII, countless psychiatric patients in Japan starved to death. Tracing the footsteps of her beloved cousin, a writer sheds light on the hidden wartime struggles behind the hospital walls.

Actor Kyle Card hikes the San'in Kaigan Geopark trail. He traces the Earth's memory through Uradome's jagged coast, Tottori's dunes and Genbudo's hexagonal columns.

Two local takes on ramen that kept Hiroshima fed during postwar reconstruction; flavors passed down for generations.

Ryogoku is known as the home of sumo. As we explore, we learn how the sport took root after a devastating fire in the 17th century. It turns out that the neighborhood has a history of bouncing back!

Inspecting the World Within: This episode features remotely operated vehicles with unique designs that were engineered to inspect difficult to access spaces.

1 in 1000 Japanese have experience as a lay judge in court cases. We witness a networking event for former lay judges, where they discuss unique experiences. What does it feel like to judge others?

Matsufuji Yasushi has been promoting the Fukuoka Method of waste disposal in developing countries dealing with population growth and urbanization. He talks about the low-cost, eco-friendly approach.

Discover the stories behind renowned Japanese products alongside our reporter. This time: concentrated laundry detergent.

Nori tsukudani, a popular topping in rice-loving Japan. Made with local nori from Tokyo Bay, it's a taste and tradition preserved for over 100 years.

In this episode, we learn about ritto and shosetsu, two dates of early winter. The nuns teach us how to make seasonal pickles and dumplings.

Dr. Oshiro Kazue is a skilled mountain medic, dedicated to promoting awareness of alpine safety, and even spending her summers treating climbers from a cabin near the peak of the iconic Mt. Fuji.

Hirosaki City in Aomori Prefecture is known for its Western architecture. A piano is placed inside the station, and people stop to play from their heart.

During WWII, countless psychiatric patients in Japan starved to death. Tracing the footsteps of her beloved cousin, a writer sheds light on the hidden wartime struggles behind the hospital walls.

A week into the new year, giant torches are lit in a shrine precinct. The shadows they create enable a demon-oni-to go to a river and cleanse people of troubles. This is Oniyo: the night of the oni.

A survey expedition field tests new equipment to automate the mapping of marine plastics. Plus, using robots, AI, and VR to study how humans learn to think.

Actor Kyle Card hikes the San'in Kaigan Geopark trail. He traces the Earth's memory through Uradome's jagged coast, Tottori's dunes and Genbudo's hexagonal columns.

After an earthquake strikes, there's a high risk of fire spreading. In this episode, we'll look at the latest research on how to escape from these fires, and what you can do to stay safe.

The IUCN lists 48,646 species facing extinction, a figure that has more than quadrupled in 25 years, accelerated by climate change. Has the "Sixth Mass Extinction" begun?

A 700-year-old hot spring, Shirabu Onsen, is maintained via daily trips up the slopes of the 2,000-meter mountain where it sits. See the hot spring's guardian at work, in gorgeous time-lapse footage.

Inspecting the World Within: This episode features remotely operated vehicles with unique designs that were engineered to inspect difficult to access spaces.

Ito Satomi has designed costumes for many top-tier figure skaters from Japan and overseas. She shares her passion and inspiration for her craft.

In Japan, one in 25 men now wear makeup daily. This episode follows a web designer in his 30s whose makeup journey began from wanting to hide skin damage, but led to deeper personal changes.

Japan is a seismically active land; the Edo period was no exception. In the aftermath of a major 1855 earthquake, an angry guardian deity set off on a quest to capture those considered responsible.

The heavily forested Shiretoko Peninsula in eastern Hokkaido is lined with 1,500-meter peaks. Its extraordinary, intertwined ecosystem extends over both land and sea and is home to diverse species.

Matsufuji Yasushi has been promoting the Fukuoka Method of waste disposal in developing countries dealing with population growth and urbanization. He talks about the low-cost, eco-friendly approach.

Discover the stories behind renowned Japanese products alongside our reporter. This time: concentrated laundry detergent.

A week into the new year, giant torches are lit in a shrine precinct. The shadows they create enable a demon-oni-to go to a river and cleanse people of troubles. This is Oniyo: the night of the oni.

Dr. Oshiro Kazue is a skilled mountain medic, dedicated to promoting awareness of alpine safety, and even spending her summers treating climbers from a cabin near the peak of the iconic Mt. Fuji.

Nori tsukudani, a popular topping in rice-loving Japan. Made with local nori from Tokyo Bay, it's a taste and tradition preserved for over 100 years.

In this episode, we learn about ritto and shosetsu, two dates of early winter. The nuns teach us how to make seasonal pickles and dumplings.

Actor Kyle Card hikes the San'in Kaigan Geopark trail. He traces the Earth's memory through Uradome's jagged coast, Tottori's dunes and Genbudo's hexagonal columns.

Two local takes on ramen that kept Hiroshima fed during postwar reconstruction; flavors passed down for generations.

Ryogoku is known as the home of sumo. As we explore, we learn how the sport took root after a devastating fire in the 17th century. It turns out that the neighborhood has a history of bouncing back!

Hirosaki City in Aomori Prefecture is known for its Western architecture. A piano is placed inside the station, and people stop to play from their heart.

During WWII, countless psychiatric patients in Japan starved to death. Tracing the footsteps of her beloved cousin, a writer sheds light on the hidden wartime struggles behind the hospital walls.

A week into the new year, giant torches are lit in a shrine precinct. The shadows they create enable a demon-oni-to go to a river and cleanse people of troubles. This is Oniyo: the night of the oni.

Matsufuji Yasushi has been promoting the Fukuoka Method of waste disposal in developing countries dealing with population growth and urbanization. He talks about the low-cost, eco-friendly approach.

Discover the stories behind renowned Japanese products alongside our reporter. This time: concentrated laundry detergent.

Inspecting the World Within: This episode features remotely operated vehicles with unique designs that were engineered to inspect difficult to access spaces.

Ito Satomi has designed costumes for many top-tier figure skaters from Japan and overseas. She shares her passion and inspiration for her craft.

One in 23 people in Japan practice multi-location living. We follow a woman who works as a graphic designer in Tokyo and runs a cafe in Yamanashi. What joys has she found through this lifestyle?

When a little boy's nap is disturbed by a bad dream, his mother comes to his rescue. What was terrorizing him? We examine a print that shows how much the Edo townspeople cherished their kids.

Art on Demand: This episode features companies using creative ways to get fine art by undiscovered artists into people's homes and public spaces.

Dr. Oshiro Kazue is a skilled mountain medic, dedicated to promoting awareness of alpine safety, and even spending her summers treating climbers from a cabin near the peak of the iconic Mt. Fuji.

Nori tsukudani, a popular topping in rice-loving Japan. Made with local nori from Tokyo Bay, it's a taste and tradition preserved for over 100 years.

In this episode, we learn about ritto and shosetsu, two dates of early winter. The nuns teach us how to make seasonal pickles and dumplings.

Inspecting the World Within: This episode features remotely operated vehicles with unique designs that were engineered to inspect difficult to access spaces.

1 in 1000 Japanese have experience as a lay judge in court cases. We witness a networking event for former lay judges, where they discuss unique experiences. What does it feel like to judge others?

Ryogoku is known as the home of sumo. As we explore, we learn how the sport took root after a devastating fire in the 17th century. It turns out that the neighborhood has a history of bouncing back!

Hirosaki City in Aomori Prefecture is known for its Western architecture. A piano is placed inside the station, and people stop to play from their heart.

Matsufuji Yasushi has been promoting the Fukuoka Method of waste disposal in developing countries dealing with population growth and urbanization. He talks about the low-cost, eco-friendly approach.

Discover the stories behind renowned Japanese products alongside our reporter. This time: concentrated laundry detergent.

Actor Kyle Card hikes the San'in Kaigan Geopark trail. He traces the Earth's memory through Uradome's jagged coast, Tottori's dunes and Genbudo's hexagonal columns.

Two local takes on ramen that kept Hiroshima fed during postwar reconstruction; flavors passed down for generations.

During WWII, countless psychiatric patients in Japan starved to death. Tracing the footsteps of her beloved cousin, a writer sheds light on the hidden wartime struggles behind the hospital walls.

Inspecting the World Within: This episode features remotely operated vehicles with unique designs that were engineered to inspect difficult to access spaces.

1 in 10 Japanese got married through online spouse-hunting services in 2020. We interview women who use matchmaking apps, including Manami, who uses multiple apps to find a perfect partner.

Hirosaki City in Aomori Prefecture is known for its Western architecture. A piano is placed inside the station, and people stop to play from their heart.

Inspecting the World Within: This episode features remotely operated vehicles with unique designs that were engineered to inspect difficult to access spaces.

1 in 2 don't drink in Japan, where intense social drinking is normal. Through interviews of drinkers and non-drinkers we hear both sides, including a couple who went sober and opened a no-alcohol bar.

Ziaul Karim, an agricultural scientist from Bangladesh, practices unique farming methods in Okayama to show how accessible agriculture can be. He works with locals to grow and use uncommon crops.

Onomichi Betcha is a three-day festival in Hiroshima Prefecture. Masked ogres carry sticks with which to "torment" spectators. But being hit or poked with a stick is said to bring good luck.

Inspecting the World Within: This episode features remotely operated vehicles with unique designs that were engineered to inspect difficult to access spaces.

All aboard for an in-depth look at one of the world's largest metro systems. From specialized training to precision tools, learn what's behind its reputation for safety and comfort.

Kyle Card explores the San'in Kaigan Geopark, discovering Yumura's hot springs, Ojiro's hillside rice terraces and heritage Tajima beef, as well as the Oriental White Stork wetlands of Toyooka.

Explore a surprising take on ramen loved by a fishing town. Let it warm you up when it's cold!

1 in 10 Japanese got married through online spouse-hunting services in 2020. We interview women who use matchmaking apps, including Manami, who uses multiple apps to find a perfect partner.

Amidst fierce competition, Japanese textile makers are now shifting focus and applying their cutting-edge techniques to enter new fields such as construction and healthcare.

1 in 2 don't drink in Japan, where intense social drinking is normal. Through interviews of drinkers and non-drinkers we hear both sides, including a couple who went sober and opened a no-alcohol bar.

Edo Kiriko cut glass techniques, passed from artisan to artisan for over 100 years. More women who now pursue the craft create popular new designs.

In this episode, we learn about the winter dates of Taisetsu and Toji. The nuns enjoy yuzu pepper, pumpkin soup and kagami-mochi rice cakes made specially for the end of the year.

Ziaul Karim, an agricultural scientist from Bangladesh, practices unique farming methods in Okayama to show how accessible agriculture can be. He works with locals to grow and use uncommon crops.

Shimanto is a nature-rich town in Kochi Prefecture. A piano is placed on a park's outdoor stage, and people stop to play from their heart.

All aboard for an in-depth look at one of the world's largest metro systems. From specialized training to precision tools, learn what's behind its reputation for safety and comfort.

Onomichi Betcha is a three-day festival in Hiroshima Prefecture. Masked ogres carry sticks with which to "torment" spectators. But being hit or poked with a stick is said to bring good luck.

Kyle Card explores the San'in Kaigan Geopark, discovering Yumura's hot springs, Ojiro's hillside rice terraces and heritage Tajima beef, as well as the Oriental White Stork wetlands of Toyooka.

1 in 10 Japanese got married through online spouse-hunting services in 2020. We interview women who use matchmaking apps, including Manami, who uses multiple apps to find a perfect partner.

Amidst fierce competition, Japanese textile makers are now shifting focus and applying their cutting-edge techniques to enter new fields such as construction and healthcare.

In the choir division of a major gospel event, held in New York in May 2025, TiA led a group of 86 Japanese singers to victory. She tells us about the significance of gospel music.

Delayed Sleep-Wake Phase Disorder is common among youth, causes extremely late sleep and wake times disrupting work or school life. We meet young sufferers who seek more flexible lifestyles.

When a little boy's nap is disturbed by a bad dream, his mother comes to his rescue. What was terrorizing him? We examine a print that shows how much the Edo townspeople cherished their kids.

The Kii Mountain Range is home to three deeply important spiritual locations: Kumano, Yoshino and Omine, and Mt. Koya. These three sites are connected by a verdant 300 km pilgrims' path.

Onomichi Betcha is a three-day festival in Hiroshima Prefecture. Masked ogres carry sticks with which to "torment" spectators. But being hit or poked with a stick is said to bring good luck.

Ziaul Karim, an agricultural scientist from Bangladesh, practices unique farming methods in Okayama to show how accessible agriculture can be. He works with locals to grow and use uncommon crops.

Edo Kiriko cut glass techniques, passed from artisan to artisan for over 100 years. More women who now pursue the craft create popular new designs.

In this episode, we learn about the winter dates of Taisetsu and Toji. The nuns enjoy yuzu pepper, pumpkin soup and kagami-mochi rice cakes made specially for the end of the year.

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.

Kyle Card explores the San'in Kaigan Geopark, discovering Yumura's hot springs, Ojiro's hillside rice terraces and heritage Tajima beef, as well as the Oriental White Stork wetlands of Toyooka.

Explore a surprising take on ramen loved by a fishing town. Let it warm you up when it's cold!

1 in 10 Japanese got married through online spouse-hunting services in 2020. We interview women who use matchmaking apps, including Manami, who uses multiple apps to find a perfect partner.

Shimanto is a nature-rich town in Kochi Prefecture. A piano is placed on a park's outdoor stage, and people stop to play from their heart.

All aboard for an in-depth look at one of the world's largest metro systems. From specialized training to precision tools, learn what's behind its reputation for safety and comfort.

Onomichi Betcha is a three-day festival in Hiroshima Prefecture. Masked ogres carry sticks with which to "torment" spectators. But being hit or poked with a stick is said to bring good luck.

Amidst fierce competition, Japanese textile makers are now shifting focus and applying their cutting-edge techniques to enter new fields such as construction and healthcare.

In the choir division of a major gospel event, held in New York in May 2025, TiA led a group of 86 Japanese singers to victory. She tells us about the significance of gospel music.

There is only one certified sign language interpreter for every 85 people with hearing / speech disabilities. But tough exams and low pay means newcomers are few, yet vital for the deaf community.

We journey to a sacred mountain where pilgrims are purifying themselves in a waterfall before moving on. Some of them have even brought along offerings. And it turns out they have something to prove.

Ziaul Karim, an agricultural scientist from Bangladesh, practices unique farming methods in Okayama to show how accessible agriculture can be. He works with locals to grow and use uncommon crops.

Edo Kiriko cut glass techniques, passed from artisan to artisan for over 100 years. More women who now pursue the craft create popular new designs.

In this episode, we learn about the winter dates of Taisetsu and Toji. The nuns enjoy yuzu pepper, pumpkin soup and kagami-mochi rice cakes made specially for the end of the year.

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.

Amidst fierce competition, Japanese textile makers are now shifting focus and applying their cutting-edge techniques to enter new fields such as construction and healthcare.

1 in 2 don't drink in Japan, where intense social drinking is normal. Through interviews of drinkers and non-drinkers we hear both sides, including a couple who went sober and opened a no-alcohol bar.

1 in 10 Japanese got married through online spouse-hunting services in 2020. We interview women who use matchmaking apps, including Manami, who uses multiple apps to find a perfect partner.

Shimanto is a nature-rich town in Kochi Prefecture. A piano is placed on a park's outdoor stage, and people stop to play from their heart.

Kyle Card explores the San'in Kaigan Geopark, discovering Yumura's hot springs, Ojiro's hillside rice terraces and heritage Tajima beef, as well as the Oriental White Stork wetlands of Toyooka.

Explore a surprising take on ramen loved by a fishing town. Let it warm you up when it's cold!

All aboard for an in-depth look at one of the world's largest metro systems. From specialized training to precision tools, learn what's behind its reputation for safety and comfort.