The Best TV Shows on NHK WORLD-JAPAN

Every NHK WORLD-JAPAN Show Ranked From Best To Worst

Our curated list, current as of July 2025, showcases over 20 of NHK WORLD-JAPAN’s highest-rated series. Notable series such as J-MELO and Journeys in Japan from NHK WORLD-JAPAN first graced the screens in 2005 and 2010. NHK WORLD-JAPAN has over 20 shows broadcast from as early as 2005 and as recent as 2021.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • Kiyo in Kyoto: From the Maiko House
    Kiyo in Kyoto: From the Maiko House (2021)7.1

    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.

  • 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.

  • GRAND SUMO Highlights
    GRAND SUMO Highlights (2020)6.4

    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!

  • Wild Hokkaido!
    Wild Hokkaido! (2017)6.0

    Be immersed in nature's beauty. Discover Hokkaido at its wildest and best as our presenter guides you through its amazing experiences.

  • 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.

  • Dining with the Chef
    Dining with the Chef (2012)N/A

    Traditional techniques and resourceful recipes! Chefs Saito and Rika, present their unique approaches to cooking delicious Japanese food.

  • Train Cruise
    Train Cruise (2013)N/A

    Criss-cross Japan by rail. Enjoy an amazing diversity of nature and scenery across the four seasons, exploring both well-known and hidden Japan.

  • 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.

  • Through the Kitchen Window
    Through the Kitchen Window (2018)N/A

    These short documentaries take an intimate look at the lifestyles and culinary passions of people across Japan. Their stories are sure to warm the heart and whet the appetite.

  • 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.

  • Deeper Look from New York
    Deeper Look from New York (2020)N/A

    A cutting-edge dialogue from NHK WORLD-JAPAN's New York studio. Covers the hot issue: from politics, economy, social matters, international situation or cultural topics.

  • BOSAI: Science that Can Save Your Life
    BOSAI: Science that Can Save Your Life (2020)N/A

    Japan has a long history of natural disasters. BOSAI explores how to overcome them and save lives with the power of science.

  • THE ANIME STUDIO
    THE ANIME STUDIO (2021)N/A

    Japan's anime studios have captured the world's attention. In this program, we go behind the scenes for an in-depth look at the most prominent studios — usually closed to the public — to find out the secrets behind their creativity.