June Highlights

[NHK Programs] 

◆ (New) [Night Drama] Midnight Taxi (32 Episodes) 

The destination lies beyond feelings not yet put into words. Forgotten memories breathe again in the rearview mirror… 

A lone taxi drives endlessly through the streets of Tokyo at night. Behind the wheel is Shoko Araragi, played by Koto Furukawa. What unfolds are delicate “one-night stories,” as refreshing as the air after rain and so fragile they might disappear if touched, wrapped in a uniquely gentle and humorous world of healing. 

The lovers’ little secrets, lies told to hide loneliness, and feelings that have remained deep in the heart through the years—all begin to turn toward the dawn as they ride in Shoko’s taxi. 

This is not a story about “meeting someone,” but about “the moment when the heart begins to move again.” 

Cast: Koto Furukawa, Aoi Nakamura, Marika Ito, Momoko Kobayashi / Emi Wakui, Naoto Takenaka, and more Available on TV Service from Monday, June 1 

◆ The Program Director Kawashima's Variety Shows Season 2 

Akira Kawashima (Kirin), General Manager of NHK’s Special Programming Department, returns in this variety show exploring brand-new entertainment concepts that could shape NHK’s future! 

Comedians and entertainers pitch fresh program ideas to Kawashima and his team, presenting pilot videos and even trying out concepts live on the spot. Together, they passionately discuss the possibilities behind each idea. 

Could highly rated projects become full-fledged TV programs in the future? Enjoy a wide variety of entertaining and stimulating ideas packed with laughter and creativity! 

Now airing on TV Service! 

◆ Strolling with Tamori 

Join master explorer Tamori as he casually strolls through towns across Japan, uncovering hidden histories and the lives of local people. 

Through traces left behind in cities and topical events, the program rediscovers the unique charm, culture, and history of each location. 

Now airing on TV Service! 

[Drama] 

◆ Red Eyes: (Nippon TV) 

Starring Kazuya Kamenashi! A former detective who lost a loved one joins forces with brilliant former criminals to track down a vicious serial killer using scientific investigations powered by Japan’s estimated five million surveillance cameras. 

A thrilling cyber-crime suspense drama! 

Cast: Kazuya Kamenashi, Nao Matsushita, Shuri, Kavka Shishido, Hokuto Matsumura (SixTONES), and more Streaming on demand from Tuesday, June 2 — All 10 Episodes 

☞ In addition, acclaimed WOWOW dramas such as 1972: FIREFLIES ON THE SHORE, BEYOND EVIL, and I, KILL are also streaming with English subtitles! 

[Sports] 

◆ The 102nd Japan Swimming Championships — Days 1–4 

Japan’s ultimate swimming championship is finally here!　Held at the Tokyo Aquatics Centre from June 4 to June 7.　Members of Japan’s national team aiming for the world stage will compete head-to-head in exciting events including freestyle and individual medley races. 

Live broadcast on NHK WORLD PREMIUM from June 4–7! Also rebroadcast at convenient viewing times on “Jme Sports.” 

◆ Tokyo Big6 Baseball — Keio vs. Waseda 

The legendary “Sokeisen” rivalry returns!　Waseda University and Keio University, two iconic rivals representing Tokyo Big6 Baseball, will once again clash at Jingu Stadium. 

More than a century of rivalry and the passionate spirit of student athletes come together in this historic showdown. Will victory go to Waseda or Keio? 

Don’t miss the electrifying atmosphere at Jingu Stadium! 

Broadcast on NHK WORLD PREMIUM on June 6! Also rebroadcast later on “Jme Sports.” 

◆ The 110th Japan Athletics Championships — Days 1–3 

Japan’s top track and field athletes gather once again for the prestigious Japan Athletics Championships. 

Across a wide range of events, elite competitors will battle for the title of Japan’s best. Witness intense competition as the nation’s fastest and strongest athletes go head-to-head. 

Live broadcast on NHK WORLD PREMIUM from June 12–14! Also rebroadcast later on “Jme Sports.” 

Programs are subject to change without notice.