NHK WORLD-JAPAN

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.

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 a world with 10,000 nuclear weapons and endless conflict, what if an atomic bomb were dropped? This show visualizes the A-bomb's impact through a man's testimony of being exposed in Hiroshima.

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.

As the global space race accelerates, China has opened development to private companies, and young innovators create unprecedented forms of space technology such as compact reusable rocket engines.

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 50 families have lost a child during pregnancy or soon after birth. A couple who lost their second son when two hours old talks about their grief and sorrow, a topic often not discussed in Japan.

For decades, singer-songwriter Moriyama Naotaro has touched the hearts of listeners with his unique voice and poetic lyricism. Now, he makes his debut on tiny desk concerts JAPAN.

Higashinada Danjiri involves a parade of decorated floats, pulled by teams of veterans and ridden by young performers that lean out over the crowd. 32 districts take part with their own float.

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.

A scientific trek into Earth's memory. See Anami's ancient strata, the singing sands of Kotobikihama, and the geological time gaps of Uradome's rocks.

Ramen packed with seafood goodness, loved in bitter cold northern Japan for over 100 years. Try a bowl for yourself!

In a world with 10,000 nuclear weapons and endless conflict, what if an atomic bomb were dropped? This show visualizes the A-bomb's impact through a man's testimony of being exposed in Hiroshima.

Rehab Reimagined: From home-made activities to interactive digital technology, this episode focuses on different approaches to physical therapy.

1 in 50 families have lost a child during pregnancy or soon after birth. A couple who lost their second son when two hours old talks about their grief and sorrow, a topic often not discussed in Japan.

As the global space race accelerates, China has opened development to private companies, and young innovators create unprecedented forms of space technology such as compact reusable rocket engines.

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.

In this episode, we learn about the winter dates of Shokan and Daikan. The nuns teach us how to make seasonal rice porridge with seven herbs, kan-koji fermented rice and dried vegetables.

For decades, singer-songwriter Moriyama Naotaro has touched the hearts of listeners with his unique voice and poetic lyricism. Now, he makes his debut on tiny desk concerts JAPAN.

Tokyo's Arakawa Ward has a shopping street with over 100 years of history. There sits a piano, which passersby love to visit and play from the heart.

"Mizoca," a 48-seat propeller plane featuring a dolphin design, is a key mode of transport based in Kyushu's Amakusa region. For three days we took to the skies to ask passengers about their journeys.

Higashinada Danjiri involves a parade of decorated floats, pulled by teams of veterans and ridden by young performers that lean out over the crowd. 32 districts take part with their own float.

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.

A scientific trek into Earth's memory. See Anami's ancient strata, the singing sands of Kotobikihama, and the geological time gaps of Uradome's rocks.

In a world with 10,000 nuclear weapons and endless conflict, what if an atomic bomb were dropped? This show visualizes the A-bomb's impact through a man's testimony of being exposed in Hiroshima.

Rehab Reimagined: From home-made activities to interactive digital technology, this episode focuses on different approaches to physical therapy.

Hosono Hitomi's botanically themed ceramics are highly acclaimed and held in museum collections across the world. She talks about her intricate designs and unmatched technique.

The latest research highlights the polar region crisis, with the lowest ever levels of sea ice and a polar bear population 50% reduced in 42 years in some areas. We look at wildlife in the Arctic.

Xu Quanyi sees it as his mission to promote the charm of Fukushima. Sharing his stories is how he counters the stigma Fukushima continues to suffer following the 2011 disaster.

Mt. Fuji is Japan's tallest and most famous peak. It has long inspired awe and terror, and is a source of artistic inspiration. Join us to explore the iconic beauty of this famous mountain.

As the global space race accelerates, China has opened development to private companies, and young innovators create unprecedented forms of space technology such as compact reusable rocket engines.

Higashinada Danjiri involves a parade of decorated floats, pulled by teams of veterans and ridden by young performers that lean out over the crowd. 32 districts take part with their own float.

For decades, singer-songwriter Moriyama Naotaro has touched the hearts of listeners with his unique voice and poetic lyricism. Now, he makes his debut on tiny desk concerts JAPAN.

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.

In this episode, we learn about the winter dates of Shokan and Daikan. The nuns teach us how to make seasonal rice porridge with seven herbs, kan-koji fermented rice and dried vegetables.

Today's theme: Guruguru Designs. Nature's spirals, circles, and swirls are reflected in "guruguru" designs. From prehistoric pottery to modern art and fashion, these shapes still fascinate us today.

A scientific trek into Earth's memory. See Anami's ancient strata, the singing sands of Kotobikihama, and the geological time gaps of Uradome's rocks.

Ramen packed with seafood goodness, loved in bitter cold northern Japan for over 100 years. Try a bowl for yourself!

In a world with 10,000 nuclear weapons and endless conflict, what if an atomic bomb were dropped? This show visualizes the A-bomb's impact through a man's testimony of being exposed in Hiroshima.

Tokyo's Arakawa Ward has a shopping street with over 100 years of history. There sits a piano, which passersby love to visit and play from the heart.

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.

Higashinada Danjiri involves a parade of decorated floats, pulled by teams of veterans and ridden by young performers that lean out over the crowd. 32 districts take part with their own float.

As the global space race accelerates, China has opened development to private companies, and young innovators create unprecedented forms of space technology such as compact reusable rocket engines.

Rehab Reimagined: From home-made activities to interactive digital technology, this episode focuses on different approaches to physical therapy.

Hosono Hitomi's botanically themed ceramics are highly acclaimed and held in museum collections across the world. She talks about her intricate designs and unmatched technique.

The latest research highlights the polar region crisis, with the lowest ever levels of sea ice and a polar bear population 50% reduced in 42 years in some areas. We look at wildlife in the Arctic.

In Yoshiwara, a high-ranking courtesan tends to a patron, while a jester attempts to entertain with an eccentric costume, hinting at the Edo townspeople's affinity for cosplay.

Japanese researchers have uncovered part of the mechanism by which zinc deficiency triggers inflammation linked to a wide range of diseases. We look at why this mineral is so vital to our health.

For decades, singer-songwriter Moriyama Naotaro has touched the hearts of listeners with his unique voice and poetic lyricism. Now, he makes his debut on tiny desk concerts JAPAN.

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.

In this episode, we learn about the winter dates of Shokan and Daikan. The nuns teach us how to make seasonal rice porridge with seven herbs, kan-koji fermented rice and dried vegetables.

Today's theme: Guruguru Designs. Nature's spirals, circles, and swirls are reflected in "guruguru" designs. From prehistoric pottery to modern art and fashion, these shapes still fascinate us today.

Rehab Reimagined: From home-made activities to interactive digital technology, this episode focuses on different approaches to physical therapy.

1 in 50 families have lost a child during pregnancy or soon after birth. A couple who lost their second son when two hours old talks about their grief and sorrow, a topic often not discussed in Japan.

In a world with 10,000 nuclear weapons and endless conflict, what if an atomic bomb were dropped? This show visualizes the A-bomb's impact through a man's testimony of being exposed in Hiroshima.

Tokyo's Arakawa Ward has a shopping street with over 100 years of history. There sits a piano, which passersby love to visit and play from the heart.

As the global space race accelerates, China has opened development to private companies, and young innovators create unprecedented forms of space technology such as compact reusable rocket engines.

Xu Quanyi sees it as his mission to promote the charm of Fukushima. Sharing his stories is how he counters the stigma Fukushima continues to suffer following the 2011 disaster.

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

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.