NHK WORLD-JAPAN

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

Journey through the air on virtual excursions form Tokyo Haneda to regional airports all over Japan. This time it's New Ishigaki Airport; islands in an emerald sea from over 40,000ft.

1 in 30 Japanese suffer from mental illness. We follow a woman who finds it hard to do simple tasks due to her illness, as she goes to rehabilitation for returning to work.

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

Bargain-hunters and people decluttering their homes flock to a huge thrift store near Tokyo. For three days, we asked customers what drew them to this place filled with an array of second-hand goods.

Invasive insects are a growing threat. We follow Okinawa's entomologists as they battle the pumpkin fruit fly, drawing on past eradication successes.

Jonathan Senior explores Gifu Prefecture through the work of master carver-monk Enku. He visits places where Enku created some of his 120,000 statues and practiced mountain spiritual training.

Autumn is harvest season in Japan, and delicious delights abound. Dig a little deeper into this truly tasty time of year, meeting the people who make it happen.

Featured recipe: omu-rice Learn about easy, delicious, and healthy cooking with Chef Rika in five minutes!

Tama New Town is a vast residential development in western Tokyo. Once the object of admiration, its aging population has become a social concern-but residents are now stepping up to help one another.

Sato Tomoki is a top wheelchair athlete who has won 6 Paralympic medals-including 2 golds-and holds world records in 3 events. He talks about wheelchair racing and the secrets behind his success.

Japanese pizza entrepreneur Masuko Yosuke is revolutionizing the restaurant industry in Vietnam and beyond, working to spread happiness through delicious food, great hospitality and green initiatives.

Invasive insects are a growing threat. We follow Okinawa's entomologists as they battle the pumpkin fruit fly, drawing on past eradication successes.

How can we continue to enjoy music while maintaining sustainability? We ask Fuji Rock Festival organizers, a drum maker and a guitar repairman about their efforts and mentality.

Tama New Town is a vast residential development in western Tokyo. Once the object of admiration, its aging population has become a social concern-but residents are now stepping up to help one another.

Sato Tomoki is a top wheelchair athlete who has won 6 Paralympic medals-including 2 golds-and holds world records in 3 events. He talks about wheelchair racing and the secrets behind his success.

Japanese pizza entrepreneur Masuko Yosuke is revolutionizing the restaurant industry in Vietnam and beyond, working to spread happiness through delicious food, great hospitality and green initiatives.

How can we continue to enjoy music while maintaining sustainability? We ask Fuji Rock Festival organizers, a drum maker and a guitar repairman about their efforts and mentality.

Invasive insects are a growing threat. We follow Okinawa's entomologists as they battle the pumpkin fruit fly, drawing on past eradication successes.

Each year in mountainous Japan, about 1,000 landslides including land slips, debris flows, and falling rocks occur, often causing major damage. We'll look at their causes and latest countermeasures.

Why did extreme heatwaves hit Europe this summer? We look at the mechanism of the likely culprits, the huge cages of trapped heat called "heat domes" related to the meandering westerlies.

With their warm light and bright, colorful designs, Aizu's hand-painted candles are "flowers that never fade," bringing comfort through long winters. Experience the glow in time-lapse.

In June 2025, Kobayashi Yoshitsugu published a trailblazing paper, illuminating the evolutionary process of large tyrannosaurs. He explains how such research helps us consider the future of humanity.

In this episode, we learn about the autumn dates of kanro and soko. The nuns show us how to make the seasonal specialties gammodoki and gohei-mochi rice cakes.

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

Sato Tomoki is a top wheelchair athlete who has won 6 Paralympic medals-including 2 golds-and holds world records in 3 events. He talks about wheelchair racing and the secrets behind his success.

Japanese pizza entrepreneur Masuko Yosuke is revolutionizing the restaurant industry in Vietnam and beyond, working to spread happiness through delicious food, great hospitality and green initiatives.

Tama New Town is a vast residential development in western Tokyo. Once the object of admiration, its aging population has become a social concern-but residents are now stepping up to help one another.

How can we continue to enjoy music while maintaining sustainability? We ask Fuji Rock Festival organizers, a drum maker and a guitar repairman about their efforts and mentality.

Sato Tomoki is a top wheelchair athlete who has won 6 Paralympic medals-including 2 golds-and holds world records in 3 events. He talks about wheelchair racing and the secrets behind his success.

In June 2025, Kobayashi Yoshitsugu published a trailblazing paper, illuminating the evolutionary process of large tyrannosaurs. He explains how such research helps us consider the future of humanity.

Fly high from Shizuoka Airport, the nearest to Mt. Fuji! Breathtaking window views and special cockpit footage await!

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.

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?

Invasive insects are a growing threat. We follow Okinawa's entomologists as they battle the pumpkin fruit fly, drawing on past eradication successes.

Japanese pizza entrepreneur Masuko Yosuke is revolutionizing the restaurant industry in Vietnam and beyond, working to spread happiness through delicious food, great hospitality and green initiatives.

Tama New Town is a vast residential development in western Tokyo. Once the object of admiration, its aging population has become a social concern-but residents are now stepping up to help one another.

Sato Tomoki is a top wheelchair athlete who has won 6 Paralympic medals-including 2 golds-and holds world records in 3 events. He talks about wheelchair racing and the secrets behind his success.

How can we continue to enjoy music while maintaining sustainability? We ask Fuji Rock Festival organizers, a drum maker and a guitar repairman about their efforts and mentality.

Octopuses are not only eaten in Japan but also depicted in works of art. They may be regarded as objects of worship or even kept as pets. We untangle Japan's long relationship with these creatures.

At a zoo in western Japan, animals are not confined in cages. Explore the innovative approaches used to recreate natural habitats and allow visitors to experience wildlife up close.

Octopuses are not only eaten in Japan but also depicted in works of art. They may be regarded as objects of worship or even kept as pets. We untangle Japan's long relationship with these creatures.

At a zoo in western Japan, animals are not confined in cages. Explore the innovative approaches used to recreate natural habitats and allow visitors to experience wildlife up close.

In June 2025, Kobayashi Yoshitsugu published a trailblazing paper, illuminating the evolutionary process of large tyrannosaurs. He explains how such research helps us consider the future of humanity.

Journey through the air on virtual excursions form Tokyo Haneda to regional airports all over Japan. This time it's New Ishigaki Airport; islands in an emerald sea from over 40,000ft.

1 in 30 Japanese suffer from mental illness. We follow a woman who finds it hard to do simple tasks due to her illness, as she goes to rehabilitation for returning to 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?

Octopuses are not only eaten in Japan but also depicted in works of art. They may be regarded as objects of worship or even kept as pets. We untangle Japan's long relationship with these creatures.

In regions that experience heavy snowfall, railways use snowplows in combination with other systems to keep the trains running. See how the railways maintain service in Japan's snow country.

At a zoo in western Japan, animals are not confined in cages. Explore the innovative approaches used to recreate natural habitats and allow visitors to experience wildlife up close.

In June 2025, Kobayashi Yoshitsugu published a trailblazing paper, illuminating the evolutionary process of large tyrannosaurs. He explains how such research helps us consider the future of humanity.

Soar over the silvery snow-clad expanses of Northern Japan, where the majestic Japanese Alps rise to greet you.

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?

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.

#39 I lost my wallet. / To explain that you did something you didn't intend to, use the "te" form of a verb, and add "shite shimaimashita." So, "otosu" (to drop) becomes "otoshite shimaimashita.".

Octopuses are not only eaten in Japan but also depicted in works of art. They may be regarded as objects of worship or even kept as pets. We untangle Japan's long relationship with these creatures.

In regions that experience heavy snowfall, railways use snowplows in combination with other systems to keep the trains running. See how the railways maintain service in Japan's snow country.

At a zoo in western Japan, animals are not confined in cages. Explore the innovative approaches used to recreate natural habitats and allow visitors to experience wildlife up close.

50 years after the Vietnam War ended, some veterans are still on duty - not as fighters, but as volunteer guardians of their hometowns. We go on night patrol in Canh Thuy Ward.

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?

In regions that experience heavy snowfall, railways use snowplows in combination with other systems to keep the trains running. See how the railways maintain service in Japan's snow country.

50 years after the Vietnam War ended, some veterans are still on duty - not as fighters, but as volunteer guardians of their hometowns. We go on night patrol in Canh Thuy Ward.

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?

Bargain-hunters and people decluttering their homes flock to a huge thrift store near Tokyo. For three days, we asked customers what drew them to this place filled with an array of second-hand goods.

In regions that experience heavy snowfall, railways use snowplows in combination with other systems to keep the trains running. See how the railways maintain service in Japan's snow country.

Yoshioka Hideto has led the international NGO Japan Heart for over 20 years, providing free medical support in developing nations. He shares plans to establish a hub for pediatric care in Cambodia.

A young man from Vietnam is using his own struggles finding an apartment in Japan to help other foreigners get settled. If you're new to Japan and faced similar challenges, tell us.

50 years after the Vietnam War ended, some veterans are still on duty - not as fighters, but as volunteer guardians of their hometowns. We go on night patrol in Canh Thuy Ward.

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?

Today's theme: The New Era of Japanese Modern Design. A fusion of rational Western Modernism and traditional Japanese materials and skills. Explore the beauty and potential of Japanese Modern Design.

Japanese pizza entrepreneur Masuko Yosuke is revolutionizing the restaurant industry in Vietnam and beyond, working to spread happiness through delicious food, great hospitality and green initiatives.

50 years after the Vietnam War ended, some veterans are still on duty - not as fighters, but as volunteer guardians of their hometowns. We go on night patrol in Canh Thuy Ward.

Yoshioka Hideto has led the international NGO Japan Heart for over 20 years, providing free medical support in developing nations. He shares plans to establish a hub for pediatric care in Cambodia.

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.

Immunotherapy is offering a new approach to uterine cancer. Genetic testing can help predict how effective it may be. We also explore a new iPS cell-based treatment that rejuvenates immune cells.

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?

Today's theme: The New Era of Japanese Modern Design. A fusion of rational Western Modernism and traditional Japanese materials and skills. Explore the beauty and potential of Japanese Modern Design.

50 years after the Vietnam War ended, some veterans are still on duty - not as fighters, but as volunteer guardians of their hometowns. We go on night patrol in Canh Thuy Ward.

A young man from Vietnam is using his own struggles finding an apartment in Japan to help other foreigners get settled. If you're new to Japan and faced similar challenges, tell us.

Discover the stories behind renowned Japanese products alongside our reporter. This time: curved escalators.

Octopuses are not only eaten in Japan but also depicted in works of art. They may be regarded as objects of worship or even kept as pets. We untangle Japan's long relationship with these creatures.

Baby mix-ups occurred repeatedly in Japanese hospitals between the 1950s and 70s. An investigation to trace a man's biological parents brings into question the meaning of family bonds and identity.

TOEI ANIMATION turns 70! We trace the history of a studio that opened new paths for Japanese anime, explore its global push with Dragon Ball, and visit production on the latest ONE PIECE.

Family restaurants are uniquely Japanese establishments, popular not only with families but also with solo diners these days. They offer a wide array of creative dishes and a fun dining experience.

Today's theme: The New Era of Japanese Modern Design. A fusion of rational Western Modernism and traditional Japanese materials and skills. Explore the beauty and potential of Japanese Modern Design.

Yaobikuni was said to be a woman in the fishing town of Obama who was given eternal youth after consuming mermaid flesh, but this envied gift instead condemned her to an apparent life of sorrow.

Kobe boasts the most street pianos in Japan. In an underground mall, a popular piano becomes a hub where people from all walks of life play from the heart.

Droughts are increasing and simulations predict that megadroughts could occur in the future. Discover Japan's technology that could solve water scarcity.

Tagawa Kinya (Design engineer)investigates the process of design by looking at the work of Yanagi Sori, who shaped products by making models using different materials.

Chushingura is one of the most popular plays. It is based on a sensational historical incident when 47 masterless samurai avenged the death of their lord. Ainosuke explores it in a two-part series.

Baby mix-ups occurred repeatedly in Japanese hospitals between the 1950s and 70s. An investigation to trace a man's biological parents brings into question the meaning of family bonds and identity.

TOEI ANIMATION turns 70! We trace the history of a studio that opened new paths for Japanese anime, explore its global push with Dragon Ball, and visit production on the latest ONE PIECE.

Yaobikuni was said to be a woman in the fishing town of Obama who was given eternal youth after consuming mermaid flesh, but this envied gift instead condemned her to an apparent life of sorrow.

Kobe boasts the most street pianos in Japan. In an underground mall, a popular piano becomes a hub where people from all walks of life play from the heart.

Today's theme: The New Era of Japanese Modern Design. A fusion of rational Western Modernism and traditional Japanese materials and skills. Explore the beauty and potential of Japanese Modern Design.

Family restaurants are uniquely Japanese establishments, popular not only with families but also with solo diners these days. They offer a wide array of creative dishes and a fun dining experience.

Droughts are increasing and simulations predict that megadroughts could occur in the future. Discover Japan's technology that could solve water scarcity.

Tagawa Kinya (Design engineer)investigates the process of design by looking at the work of Yanagi Sori, who shaped products by making models using different materials.

Chushingura is one of the most popular plays. It is based on a sensational historical incident when 47 masterless samurai avenged the death of their lord. Ainosuke explores it in a two-part series.

Baby mix-ups occurred repeatedly in Japanese hospitals between the 1950s and 70s. An investigation to trace a man's biological parents brings into question the meaning of family bonds and identity.

TOEI ANIMATION turns 70! We trace the history of a studio that opened new paths for Japanese anime, explore its global push with Dragon Ball, and visit production on the latest ONE PIECE.

Family restaurants are uniquely Japanese establishments, popular not only with families but also with solo diners these days. They offer a wide array of creative dishes and a fun dining experience.

Yaobikuni was said to be a woman in the fishing town of Obama who was given eternal youth after consuming mermaid flesh, but this envied gift instead condemned her to an apparent life of sorrow.

Kobe boasts the most street pianos in Japan. In an underground mall, a popular piano becomes a hub where people from all walks of life play from the heart.

Droughts are increasing and simulations predict that megadroughts could occur in the future. Discover Japan's technology that could solve water scarcity.

Tagawa Kinya (Design engineer)investigates the process of design by looking at the work of Yanagi Sori, who shaped products by making models using different materials.

Chushingura is one of the most popular plays. It is based on a sensational historical incident when 47 masterless samurai avenged the death of their lord. Ainosuke explores it in a two-part series.

Baby mix-ups occurred repeatedly in Japanese hospitals between the 1950s and 70s. An investigation to trace a man's biological parents brings into question the meaning of family bonds and identity.

TOEI ANIMATION turns 70! We trace the history of a studio that opened new paths for Japanese anime, explore its global push with Dragon Ball, and visit production on the latest ONE PIECE.

Family restaurants are uniquely Japanese establishments, popular not only with families but also with solo diners these days. They offer a wide array of creative dishes and a fun dining experience.

Yaobikuni was said to be a woman in the fishing town of Obama who was given eternal youth after consuming mermaid flesh, but this envied gift instead condemned her to an apparent life of sorrow.

Kobe boasts the most street pianos in Japan. In an underground mall, a popular piano becomes a hub where people from all walks of life play from the heart.

Droughts are increasing and simulations predict that megadroughts could occur in the future. Discover Japan's technology that could solve water scarcity.

Tagawa Kinya (Design engineer)investigates the process of design by looking at the work of Yanagi Sori, who shaped products by making models using different materials.

Chushingura is one of the most popular plays. It is based on a sensational historical incident when 47 masterless samurai avenged the death of their lord. Ainosuke explores it in a two-part series.

Young entrepreneurs are flooding into the US defense sector. Driven by a surge of capital flowing under the banner of national security, a new wave of innovation is reshaping the modern arms race.

This week, we welcome ANRI, one of Japan's most celebrated female vocalists, who is also popular overseas. We explore the timeless appeal of her music as she celebrates 48 years since her debut.

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 2-5.

Highly nutritious and increasingly popular overseas, natto is a traditional Japanese food linked to longevity. Now, there are even hopes that it could help solve environmental issues.

On this unique trip around Japan, discover the lesser-known charms and customs of regions through the eyes of cats! Filmed by wildlife photographe,Iwago Mitsuaki.

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

The British city of Oxford is home to the renowned University of Oxford. The city's 900-year academic history shapes its streets with rich traditions, historic colleges, and a unique scholarly spirit.

Beyond each bite of this ekiben for a Sea of Japan journey is a story: a father and son diving for mozuku, a fisher collecting turban shells, and a hotel duo preserving its flavors.

The Maki-e lacquering technique uses gold dust on a jet-black background to dazzling effect.

Today: words of support for a coworker. Nguyen Thi Thuy Trang, from Vietnam, works at a paper products company. In a roleplay challenge, she must reach out to a coworker to offer support.

"They're not trash cans, but resource bins," says Murakami Yuki, transforming garbage and scrap into useful materials. This sort of alchemy has earned praise and serious interest from industry.

Vasfije Krasniqi Goodman was the first woman to speak publicly about sexual violence during the Kosovo War. This documentary portrays the survivors' struggles and pursuit of justice 25 years later.

The British city of Oxford is home to the renowned University of Oxford. The city's 900-year academic history shapes its streets with rich traditions, historic colleges, and a unique scholarly spirit.

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

This week, we welcome ANRI, one of Japan's most celebrated female vocalists, who is also popular overseas. We explore the timeless appeal of her music as she celebrates 48 years since her debut.

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 2-5.

Highly nutritious and increasingly popular overseas, natto is a traditional Japanese food linked to longevity. Now, there are even hopes that it could help solve environmental issues.

On this unique trip around Japan, discover the lesser-known charms and customs of regions through the eyes of cats! Filmed by wildlife photographe,Iwago Mitsuaki.

Beyond each bite of this ekiben for a Sea of Japan journey is a story: a father and son diving for mozuku, a fisher collecting turban shells, and a hotel duo preserving its flavors.

The Maki-e lacquering technique uses gold dust on a jet-black background to dazzling effect.

Today: words of support for a coworker. Nguyen Thi Thuy Trang, from Vietnam, works at a paper products company. In a roleplay challenge, she must reach out to a coworker to offer support.

"They're not trash cans, but resource bins," says Murakami Yuki, transforming garbage and scrap into useful materials. This sort of alchemy has earned praise and serious interest from industry.

Vasfije Krasniqi Goodman was the first woman to speak publicly about sexual violence during the Kosovo War. This documentary portrays the survivors' struggles and pursuit of justice 25 years later.

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

This week, we welcome ANRI, one of Japan's most celebrated female vocalists, who is also popular overseas. We explore the timeless appeal of her music as she celebrates 48 years since her debut.

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 2-5.

Highly nutritious and increasingly popular overseas, natto is a traditional Japanese food linked to longevity. Now, there are even hopes that it could help solve environmental issues.

On this unique trip around Japan, discover the lesser-known charms and customs of regions through the eyes of cats! Filmed by wildlife photographe,Iwago Mitsuaki.

The British city of Oxford is home to the renowned University of Oxford. The city's 900-year academic history shapes its streets with rich traditions, historic colleges, and a unique scholarly spirit.

Beyond each bite of this ekiben for a Sea of Japan journey is a story: a father and son diving for mozuku, a fisher collecting turban shells, and a hotel duo preserving its flavors.

The Maki-e lacquering technique uses gold dust on a jet-black background to dazzling effect.

Today: words of support for a coworker. Nguyen Thi Thuy Trang, from Vietnam, works at a paper products company. In a roleplay challenge, she must reach out to a coworker to offer support.

"They're not trash cans, but resource bins," says Murakami Yuki, transforming garbage and scrap into useful materials. This sort of alchemy has earned praise and serious interest from industry.

Young entrepreneurs are flooding into the US defense sector. Driven by a surge of capital flowing under the banner of national security, a new wave of innovation is reshaping the modern arms race.

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

This week, we welcome ANRI, one of Japan's most celebrated female vocalists, who is also popular overseas. We explore the timeless appeal of her music as she celebrates 48 years since her debut.

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 2-5.

Highly nutritious and increasingly popular overseas, natto is a traditional Japanese food linked to longevity. Now, there are even hopes that it could help solve environmental issues.

On this unique trip around Japan, discover the lesser-known charms and customs of regions through the eyes of cats! Filmed by wildlife photographe,Iwago Mitsuaki.

Beyond each bite of this ekiben for a Sea of Japan journey is a story: a father and son diving for mozuku, a fisher collecting turban shells, and a hotel duo preserving its flavors.

The Maki-e lacquering technique uses gold dust on a jet-black background to dazzling effect.

Today: words of support for a coworker. Nguyen Thi Thuy Trang, from Vietnam, works at a paper products company. In a roleplay challenge, she must reach out to a coworker to offer support.

"They're not trash cans, but resource bins," says Murakami Yuki, transforming garbage and scrap into useful materials. This sort of alchemy has earned praise and serious interest from industry.

The British city of Oxford is home to the renowned University of Oxford. The city's 900-year academic history shapes its streets with rich traditions, historic colleges, and a unique scholarly spirit.