The Best TV Shows on NHK WORLD-JAPAN

Every NHK WORLD-JAPAN Show Ranked From Best To Worst

Across the timeline from 2005 to 2023, NHK WORLD-JAPAN has presented audiences with over 20 captivating shows. Discover the best of NHK WORLD-JAPAN with our list of over 20 series, meticulously updated for October 2025. Leading the pack on NHK WORLD-JAPAN are J-MELO and Begin Japanology, with their initial broadcasts in 2005 and 2008.

  • Seasoning the Seasons
    Seasoning the Seasons (2012)10.0

    This program visits places across Japan to introduce the charms of their local daily life and festivals fostered by the nation's long history.

  • RAMEN JAPAN
    RAMEN JAPAN (2023)10.0

    Ramen is a savory combination of umami-packed broth and perfectly cooked noodles. This program offers an encyclopedic view of this delectable dish, taking you on a journey across Japan to discover ever-evolving local variations. Join us as we explore a tapestry of local customs and food culture through the lens of ramen.

  • Journeys in Japan
    Journeys in Japan (2010)9.0

    Journeys in Japan provides an eye-opening look at the many unique places to visit in Japan. English-speaking visitors travel the length of the country, exploring the culture, meeting the local people, visiting historic sites and offering travel hints rarely found in guidebooks.

  • NHK WORLD PRIME
    NHK WORLD PRIME (2017)9.0

    NHK WORLD PRIME brings you a world of mainly documentaries, and more. Tune in to see special select programs on all sorts of topics and genres.

  • Begin Japanology
    Begin Japanology (2008)8.0

    BEGIN Japanology invites you into the world of Japanese culture, both traditional and modern, explaining how traditions evolved and the part they still play today in people's everyday lives.

  • Japan Railway Journal
    Japan Railway Journal (2015)8.0

    Discover the secrets of Japan's railways, from the newest technologies and systems in use, to travel tips and must-see places.

  • BENTO EXPO
    BENTO EXPO (2016)8.0

    Bento, or lunchbox, is a fun slice of Japanese food culture that more people around the world are sharing. Healthy and delicious foods are beautifully and creatively presented. This NHK series features demonstrations and advice by Japanese bento experts, as well as shares some of the bento pictures and videos sent in by viewers worldwide.

  • Anime Supernova
    Anime Supernova (2017)8.0

    Meet the real stars of Japanese animation. From crayons to CGI, discover the techniques and inspirations of some of Japan's most amazing animators.

  • Document 72 Hours
    Document 72 Hours (2013)7.0

    Three days in the life of...Stay in one location for 72 hours, catching glimpses into people's lives as they open up and share. NHK World English Broadcast Version

  • Kiyo in Kyoto: From the Maiko House
    Kiyo in Kyoto: From the Maiko House (2021)6.8

    Kiyo and Sumire came to Kyoto from Aomori Prefecture, dreaming of becoming maiko. But after an unexpected turn of events, Kiyo starts working as the live-in cook at the Maiko House. Their story unfolds in Kagai, the Geiko and maiko district in Kyoto, alongside their housemate maikos. Kiyo nourishes them daily with her homecooked meals, and Sumire strives toward her promising future as the once-in-a-century maiko.

  • J-MELO
    J-MELO (2005)6.7

    J-MELO is a weekly Japanese music television program broadcast by NHK. It is recorded entirely in the English language. It began broadcasting on October 7, 2005. The program is available on NHK's World Service television station, Radio Japan, Digital Educational TV and on its Domestic General Channel.

  • GRAND SUMO Highlights
    GRAND SUMO Highlights (2020)6.7

    The best of today's sumo! Enjoy daily highlights of this dynamic sport with background info and play-by-play commentary adding to the excitement!

  • 15 Minutes
    15 Minutes (2018)6.5

    Content on-the-go! Diverse, innovative, immersive and smartphone optimized. Topics range from arts, crafts and ninjas to international celebrities!

  • Japanology Plus
    Japanology Plus (2014)6.4

    Host Peter Barakan delves into various aspects of Japanese culture; exploring practices, history, and modern innovations in such areas as ramen, rice, sushi, geisha, bonsai, and so much more. Local experts discuss their passions at fascinating length, and American Japanophile Matt Alt experiences the food, practices, and cultures in each episode in depth. Viewers will finish each half hour episode with a new understanding of an area of Japanese life through demonstrative videos and explanations, all delivered respectfully and true to the Japanese way of life.

  • Core Kyoto
    Core Kyoto (2013)5.0

    The timeless heart of Japan's ancient capital. Against its rich backdrop of culture and tradition, today's Kyoto continues to innovate and inspire.

  • Hometown Stories
    Hometown Stories (2011)N/A

    Stories about people, stories about life. Intimate portraits of people from around Japan, each leading diverse lives while enriching lives of others.

  • Face To Face
    Face To Face (2015)N/A

    In conversation with... Japan expert Robert Campbell sits down with individuals from all walks of life whose drive and perspectives are changing Japan.

  • Culture Crossroads
    Culture Crossroads (2018)N/A

    Culture Crossroads comprises several regular programs with the theme of creating a multicultural society. They answer questions about Japan from foreign viewers, look at international exchange programs and give tips on disaster preparedness.

  • Trails to Oishii Tokyo
    Trails to Oishii Tokyo (2019)N/A

    Delicious food from Tokyo's markets! Learn about the amazing ingredients which are sourced from across Japan and sold at Tokyo's fresh food markets.

  • ANIME MANGA EXPLOSION
    ANIME MANGA EXPLOSION (2023)N/A

    The size of the Japanese animation market was 2,426 billion yen by 2020. More than half of that amount came from overseas sales. The manga market is also expanding, reaching 675.9 billion yen in 2021. Those unique visuals and stories from Japan have struck a chord with fans around the world and are growing into a huge industry. ANIME MANGA EXPLOSION will actively feature major works that are highly recognized by overseas fans and reveal the secrets of Japanese anime and manga creation through the series.