Today's Close-Up

One year since the Noto Peninsula Earthquake, over 270 people have died from disaster-related secondary causes. Poor conditions at emergency shelters and lack of healthcare are among the contributing factors. Experts say these reasons are the same ones that led to death in past disasters, and the country's failure to identify systemic issues means they will be repeated again in the future. We search for ways to improve Japan's natural disaster response system and look at how a lack of clear communication between the national and municipal governments is leading to problems.Guest:Akitomi Shinji (Visiting Professor, International Research Institute of Disaster Science, Tohoku University)

2024, an election year in Japan, was a turning point in regard to the relation between elections and social media. NHK has conducted an online survey to find out how information voters obtained on social media affected their decisions. The results point to challenges for legacy media and the need for better media literacy. Together with experts, we discuss how to make better use of the new media when it comes to choosing our leaders.Guests:Makihara Izuru (Professor, The University of Tokyo)Yoneshige Katsuhiro (President, JX PRESS)

We look at the world of counterfeit artworks and forged celebrity autographs, including that of baseball star Ohtani Shohei. While fake products are rampant in online trading, shockwaves have hit public museums in Japan over suspicious paintings purchased for as much as several hundred thousand dollars. We conducted an exclusive interview with a German art forger at the center of the controversy, and he revealed his ingenious methods. We also talked to experts and victims to hear their insights, revealing how technology like AI and forensic tools is being used to combat the rise of counterfeits.Guest:Okabe Masayuki (Professor Emeritus, Teikyo University)

"The images of the disaster are frightening." "I don't understand the lessons." These are the voices of young people living now in areas hit by the Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake that devastated the Kobe area in 1995. A recent survey of over 2,000 residents in places that were affected 30 years ago found that while over 70% believe lessons should be passed down, many survivors struggle with how to convey them, and those who didn't experience the disaster are unsure how to absorb them. How can memories of the earthquake be transformed into meaningful lessons for disaster prevention? We explore this from the perspectives of schools, local governments, and a bereaved family member. Guests:Suwa Seiji (President, Japanese Society for Disaster Education)Kishida Nami (Writer and Essayist)

Japan has coughed and spluttered its way through winter this year, with average flu cases at a record high earlier in the season, and other infectious diseases spreading at the same time. In January, medical resources were stretched to the limit — at least one hospital was so overwhelmed with bedridden flu patients that it had to temporarily turn away all but critical cases. In this episode, we hear from an expert about how the coronavirus pandemic has changed seasonal patterns for infectious diseases. And we look at the looming threat posed by genetic mutations in another type of flu — avian influenza.Guest:Ishida Tadashi (Chair of the influenza committee, The Japanese Association for Infectious Diseases)

Microplastics are no longer just a threat to the environment — they're invading our bodies, too. A study published in 2024 went one step further, showing that microplastics in the human body can also increase the risk of death. The mounting problem stems from humankind's excessive consumption of plastic products, which eventually break down into tiny particles in the environment before entering our bodies. Corporate, national and international efforts to rein in plastic use have failed to tackle the problem. NHK reports on the latest medical findings. We also ask an expert how regulations can help, and what consumers can do to make a difference.Guests:Takada Hideshige (Professor, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology)Misawa Yukihiro (Plastics Policy Manager, WWF Japan)

Ramen is one of Japan's most popular dishes, beloved by residents and foreign tourists alike. But rising ingredient and fuel costs are forcing many local shops to close. Other restaurants might hike their prices, but ramen businesses face a historic '1,000-yen barrier.' The dish has long been seen as an affordable comfort food and owners are reluctant to change that image. We look at how some shops are overcoming these difficulties and the innovative ways in which rural areas are preserving their local ramen culture.Guests:Hayashiya Kikuou (Rakugo storyteller)Yamaji Rikiya (Food journalist)

Three years after launching its invasion of Ukraine, Russia is defying unprecedented sanctions and logging robust economic growth. The resilience has been driven by a major increase in military spending. The Kremlin's heavy investment in munitions production has not only bolstered the defense sector but also driven up earnings and consumption. In a manifestation of what one expert has dubbed "deathonomics," the government has also ramped up financial support for both soldiers and the families of those killed in battle. We consulted a Russia expert about the true impact of the sanctions, and asked what the world can expect next.Guest:Hattori Michitaka (Professor, Hokkaido University)

As families of people with mental illnesses battle in silence to care for their loved ones due to prejudice and a lack of understanding, Japan's support system is under scrutiny. More than 6 million people nationwide have been diagnosed with a mental illness. That's one in 20 of the population, and it's a number that's rising. We look at the options available to ease the burden on family carers, including home visit nursing care and stronger community connections.Guest:Natsukari Ikuko (Psychiatrist)

Millions of Japanese people are using dedicated apps to find so-called spot work – short-term, one-off jobs that allow them to make extra income in their spare time. For some, it's a way to supplement earnings from their main employment. For others, such as homemakers and the elderly, it's a chance to earn some cash between other commitments. The growing market for spot work also benefits businesses that are finding themselves increasingly short-handed due to Japan's worsening labor crunch. But with benefits come risks. Workers complain the system is open to abuse and fails to offer sufficient protections. We spoke with a labor expert about the pitfalls in the spot work economy, and the ways people can use it to their advantage. Guest: Kawakami Keitaro (Research advisor, Shufu Job Soken)

It's been thirty years since the sarin nerve gas attack on the Tokyo subway by the doomsday cult Aum Shinrikyo in 1995. When police raided Aum's facilities, more than 100 children were found living in terrible conditions. Records obtained by NHK from a child consultation center revealed the psychological state of those children indoctrinated by Aum. However, there has been no long-term follow-up on their well-being. Overlooked by society, most of them have remained silent about their past. We interviewed former Aum children to look into what they've gone through over the past three decades, and what society should have done for them. Guest: Nishizawa Satoru (Professor, Graduate School, Yamanashi Prefectural University)

The Fuji Television scandal has revealed the extent to which workplace sexual harassment and assault remain major social issues in Japan. People are now speaking out about their experiences and the ways in which their employers failed to ensure safe working environments. This program examines what needs to be done to end workplace harassment and assault. Experts tell us about how the legal system is stopping companies from protecting their employees. We also learn about new ideas in harassment prevention training and the importance of the "active bystander."Guest: Naito Shino (Vice Senior Researcher, Japan Institute for Labour Policy and Training)

As the popularity of e-scooters booms in Japan, so too have accidents, confusion over usage rules and public concern. A 2023 revision of the traffic laws aimed to strike a balance between safety and convenience, but the lack of understanding remains a problem. With examples from Belgium and elsewhere, we explore whether better education, regulation and urban planning can help Japan steer toward a safer e-mobility future. Guest: Suzuki Mio (Associate Professor, Tokai University)

Smartphones, portable chargers, wireless earphones: mobile electronic devices have become an indispensable part of our daily lives, and all of them contain lithium-ion batteries. But the number of accidents involving these batteries is on the rise. As batteries age and degrade over time, flammable gas can build up inside, creating a risk that they will suddenly ignite. We look at what to buy, how to use devices safely, and how to dispose of lithium-ion batteries correctly. Guest: Ikeya Tomohiko (Associate Vice President, Central Research Institute of Electric Power Industry)

New rules limiting the working hours of truck drivers have paralyzed Japan's logistics industry. Trucking firms say long wait times for cargo and low freight fares mean they lose money if they observe the regulations. Meanwhile, the shipping companies that use their services say they can't afford to pay the higher fares needed to make the cap effective. The government has launched a task force to address the issue, but one expert says the best solution might be for consumers to change their shopping habits.Guest: Shuto Wakana (Professor, Rikkyo University)

In 2021, as the coronavirus pandemic was tightening its grip on Japan, the government started rolling out vaccines nationwide. Four years and 400 million doses later, the pandemic is fading, but for some the nightmare continues. So far, more than 13,000 people have sought government assistance for the health problems they still suffer as a result of their inoculations. Experts suspect these numbers are the tip of the iceberg. Huge amounts of paperwork and lengthy delays due to worker shortages deter many from applying for help and force others to endure drawn-out waits for financial help. In this episode we spoke with two experts about where the support system is falling short, and what Japan can do to prepare for the next pandemic. Guests:Nakano Takashi (Professor, Kawasaki Medical School) Isobe Tetsu (Professor, Keio University Law School)

Home-visit care for the elderly in Japan is facing a crisis. More and more care service providers are going bankrupt or closing down. One out of every five municipalities nationwide is left with only one home care provider or none at all. Causes include labor shortages and aging caregivers, as well as a recent cut in the government payment standard that's making it hard for businesses to survive. This puts families under pressure, with some forced to quit their jobs to care for aging loved ones. New efforts to solve the issue are beginning to emerge, such as hiring more foreign caregivers and promoting regional cooperation. Guest: Takano Tatsuaki (Professor, Toyo University)

Record sums were stolen in 2024 through what's known as "special fraud" in Japan. Many of the perpetrators were young people recruited online. Meanwhile, cases of school violence hit an all-time high during the 2023 academic year. Experts say both phenomena are linked to an inability to articulate emotions, which may be due to the rise of digital communication using a limited range of versatile, short words. We look at how juvenile correction facilities and one elementary school are training young people to expand their emotional vocabulary, to help prevent them from becoming involved in violence and crime.Guest: Watanabe Yayoi (Professor, Hosei University)

Countries worldwide grapple with social media's impact on children, debating and introducing laws to ban or limit access by minors. Families, experts and governments confront serious issues of addiction, mental health and online safety as Japan faces up to the need to take action.Guests: Tsuruno Takeshi (TV personality)Uenuma Shino (Lawyer)Suzuki Tomoko (IT journalist)

The role of the Japanese manager has become increasingly complex and time-consuming — so much so that many junior workers now say they would prefer to avoid promotion to these demanding positions, which they consider a form of punishment. But help is at hand. At some companies, managers deploy an "AI boss" that can scan daily records and evaluate worker performances for them. Others are appointing independent proxy bosses to mentor their younger workers and give career advice. Some companies are doing away with traditional hierarchical structures altogether in a bid to encourage greater self-management and sharing of duties. We take a look at some modern-day role models for managers.Guest: Kobayashi Yuji (Chief Researcher, Persol Research and Consulting)

In April, the Japanese government released its first national estimate of "solitary deaths." In 2024, over 20,000 people died alone and remained undiscovered for at least eight days. The figure also includes people in their 20s and 30s. Behind this trend is a recent increase in young people experiencing difficulties opening up to others, which often results in feelings of loneliness and even self-neglect. We look at what can be done to tackle the issue. Guests:Ishida Mitsunori (Chair, Government panel on solitary deaths)Okumura Haruka (Representative, NPO Daisan no kazoku)

Cases are increasing in which victims of fraud pay large retainer fees to attorneys promising to recover money lost to scams, but in many instances, no money is returned and victims have lost even more. As we investigated the background, it became clear advertising agencies are instigating and even running these questionable practices. Their schemes are networked and the problem is spreading across the country. We take a look at what's going on and, together with an expert, discuss the best ways to avoid such double damage. Guest: Kobayakawa Masayuki (Attorney, Headquarters on Illegal Affiliation of Legal Practice, Tokyo Bar Association)

Password theft is on the rise in Japan, with online trading accounts particularly at risk. A lack of government security measures and a recent surge in inexperienced users starting accounts has made the country an attractive target. Cybercriminals are also armed with AI tools that make their scam emails and websites more convincing. What can the country do to improve online security?Guests: Yuasa Harumichi (Professor Graduate School of Governance Studies, Meiji University)Shimada Takaaki (NHK reporter)

Non-alcoholic beverages are booming in Japan. The market has expanded six-fold over the past 15 years, and even medical professionals are starting to recognize their potential. One survey found they can cut alcohol intake by 30% among regular drinkers. Together with an expert and a booze-loving guest, we look at how non-alcoholic drinks are changing Japanese society, from a clinic that "prescribes" them to patients, to a major sportswear maker that has developed an alcohol-free beer for enjoying after exercise. Guests:YOU (Media personality) Yoshimoto Hisashi (Director, Research and Development Center for Lifestyle Innovation, University of Tsukuba)

Residents of Japan's big cities are accustomed to a high standard of medical care. But many are now finding access to treatment more precarious as financial problems force a growing number of hospitals to suspend services. In some cases, operators can't afford to rebuild aging wards. In others, the cost of maintaining around-the-clock emergency services is making it almost impossible to run operations at a profit. Across the board, emergency care hospitals say the medical fees they get reimbursed by the government are no longer sufficient to compensate for increases in labor and living costs. We asked two experts what hospitals can do to survive the looming crisis.Guests: Ota Yoshihiro, M.D. (Vice chair, Association of Japanese Healthcare Corporations)Yoshimura Kensuke, M.D. (Director, Center for Next Generation of Community Health, Chiba University Hospital)

As Japan sees living to 100 years old gradually becoming the norm, an increasing number of middle-agers look for new partners with whom to spend the rest of their lives. The popularity of matchmaking apps exclusive to people aged 40 or older has been skyrocketing, and the waiting lists continue to stretch for matchmaking bus tours catering to that age group. However, these mature singles face unique challenges including health, finances and understanding from family members. We take a close look at those who seek that special someone to grow old with. Guests: Mari NatsukiYamada Masahiro (Professor, Chuo University)

Early this year, San-ikukai Hospital in Tokyo, started a "baby hatch" to anonymously accept newborns whose parents cannot raise them, and a confidential birth service where babies can be delivered without their identities being revealed to anyone other than a few of the staff. The hospital granted NHK full access to cover its work. Two months after the service began, several women had already come in, wanting to leave their children with the hospital. We listen to their stories and explore the issues in depth.Guests:Yamagata Fumiharu (Specially Appointed Professor, Osaka University of Comprehensive Children Education) Kuwahara Aki (NHK reporter)

As Japan's population declines, domestic industries are increasingly reliant on foreign labor to stay afloat. Local governments across the country have introduced programs to make their communities appealing to workers. But some people are unhappy, saying the priority should be Japanese residents. Meanwhile, other countries have joined the race for foreign workers. We look at how regional and local authorities in Japan are trying to stay competitive on the global stage. We also examine local efforts to integrate foreign workers into the community.Guest: Manjome Masao (Professor, Tokai University)

One out of every two Japanese is said to develop cancer. While the introduction of new drugs has helped increase survival rates, treatments have become more prolonged and expensive, giving birth to the issue of "economic toxicity." Many patients are driven into a corner, both financially and emotionally, by the burden of medical costs in addition to other life expenses. Meanwhile, public insurance, which is intended to support treatment, is becoming increasingly difficult to provide due to the higher costs of treatment. Eighty percent of all health insurance societies are in the red. We look into what is needed to ease the financial burden on cancer patients and their families.Guests:Sakurai Naomi (Director, Japan Federation of Cancer Patient Groups)Takaku Reo (Professor, Hitotsubashi University)

What would you say to your family and friends in a letter to be delivered after your death? "Last letters" are becoming increasingly common, with the practice even spreading among young people. Some say writing them encourages self-reflection and helps them live with a sense of purpose. Others say the letters have helped them understand who is truly important in their lives. We look at the many last letter services that have risen to popularity in the past few years, including those that use new technology, and speak to an expert about how their emergence could reflect changing views about death in Japanese society.Guests:Sakakibara Ikue (Actor and TV personality) Furuta Yusuke (Non-fiction writer)

A Japanese venture firm's recent moon landing attempt ended in failure, but the mission is continuing undaunted. Behind the scenes, preparations for further launches are already in motion. Now, momentum is building across Japan, as major corporations and small businesses alike rush to enter the space sector. With the government committing 7 billion dollars over 10 years, space is shaping up to be a national priority. As global competition intensifies, what will be Japan's winning strategy?Guest: Uchida Atsushi (Research Director, Mitsubishi Research Institute)

Japan is facing a car theft crisis, with more than 6,000 vehicles getting stolen in a recent year. Organized crime groups use sophisticated technology to make off with popular models. They employ several people to carry out separate roles. Often the cars end up at junkyards that strip them for their parts, and in many cases, cars and parts are shipped out of the country. Once the goods enter legal distribution channels, there's little Japanese police can do to recover them. We asked an expert what measures people can take to better secure their vehicles and keep the thieves at bay. Guest: Mori Masato (Representative, Keijiken)

Doi Yoshiharu promotes simple home cooking rooted in the idea of one soup and one dish in a quiet rebellion against the chaos of modern life. We step into his kitchen to be guided by some unconventional wisdom: "You don't need recipes" and "find what's just right for you." These aren't words you'd expect from a culinary expert, but they might just change the way you see your kitchen. We explore the world of home cooking that nourishes more than just the body.Guest: Doi Yoshiharu (Culinary researcher)

Increasingly hot summers are taking a heavy toll on agriculture across Japan and posing a serious threat to food production. At pig farms, workers say the extreme heat is sickening their animals and affecting their growth. It's a similar story at dairy farms, where the heat is weakening cows and reducing milk yields. If we fail to take countermeasures against global warming now, our dining table in the year 2100 will look very different. We report on some ways that farmers are starting to adapt, and, with help from experts, we project the future of Japanese food production.

In the US, the Trump administration's pressure on universities through funding cuts, visa cancellations and demands tied to campus protests is disrupting college research in medicine, climate change, technology and more. For their part, Harvard is fighting back in court and NASA is warning that key satellite data could go dark. As labs face uncertainty, researchers are weighing moves abroad, with Canada, Europe, China, and Japan all recruiting, raising stakes for academic freedom and collaboration.

Japan's scorching summers are difficult for everyone, but they are even more grueling for people suffering from sweat-related medical conditions. About one in ten people have a form of hyperhidrosis, a disorder that causes excessive sweating. Some say the condition makes it difficult for them to go outside during the summer. Another disorder causes strong body odor. People who suffer from it worry about offending others and societal expectations about cleanliness and personal hygiene add to this anxiety. We ask people who suffer from sweat-related conditions about the challenges they face. We also look at the latest research and treatment options.

Drug repositioning finds new uses for existing medicines, cutting development time and costs dramatically. AI accelerates this by identifying hidden drug-disease links and improving success rates. This approach offers quicker, safer options to tackle diseases with unmet medical needs, but the government's drug pricing system has become a barrier to development.

In March 1986, a junior high school student was killed in Fukui City. Though the suspect who was arrested a year later pled not guilty, he ended up serving a prison sentence. He was finally acquitted at a retrial, but that was this July - nearly four decades later. Why did it take so long? One of the answers lies in the Japanese judicial system's absence of rules that require prosecutors to disclose evidence in a retrial. In the Fukui case, for many years the prosecution had been withholding key evidence that later proved the man's innocence. We look at what needs to be done to help save the victims of wrongful convictions. Guest: Ibusuki Makoto (Professor, Seijo University)

Japan's sewer system is aging. Across the country, particularly in urban areas, pipelines are degrading, with potentially disastrous consequences. In one case earlier this year, a ruptured sewer pipe triggered a major road collapse near Tokyo that killed a truck driver. The incident revealed some pipelines are decaying faster than expected and prompted a national inspection of large and aging sewer pipes across the country that uncovered similar problems in other places. The race is now on to remedy these issues, but local authorities say labor shortages and budget limitations are hampering their efforts. We asked an expert what Japan needs to do to preserve its sewer system for generations to come.Guests: Urakami Takuya (Professor, Kindai University) Saito Keijiro (NHK reporter)

Seaweed has long been a staple of Japanese cuisine. Recently, its nutritional value has made it popular overseas. Seaweed products now line the shelves of supermarkets across the United States. It's also being used in beauty products and even as a crucial tool in the fight against global warming. With more types of seaweed growing in its waters than any other country in the world, Japan is well-placed to take advantage of this seaweed boom. But it's only sixth in seaweed production, lagging far behind some of its Asian neighbors. We examine efforts across the country to tap into this underused resource and speak to experts about future possibilities. Guests:Masu Taichi (Assistant Professor, Harris Science Research Institute, Doshisha University) Watanabe Atsushi (Director, Ocean Vision and Action Division, Ocean Policy Research Institute, The Sasakawa Peace Foundation)

With one in 3.5 older people in Japan now living with dementia or pre-dementia, the country is shifting from a care-only mindset to inclusion, putting people to work by matching them with roles they can do and redesigning public spaces and tools around their needs. From stores that let workers "do what they can" to developing safer stoves and clearer signage, we show how ability-focused support eases family strain, tackles labor shortages and lets people keep their identity and purpose.Guests: Fujishima Takehiko (Care worker with dementia)Hotta Satoko (Professor, Graduate School of Health Management, Keio University)

Bear attacks are on the rise in Japan. Dozens of injuries and several deaths have been reported this year. Many bears are coming down from their mountain habitats and entering residential areas. Experts say if they get used to being around humans, their behavior may get more aggressive. As the bear population continues to grow, Japan could be facing the start of a new kind of natural disaster. We learn about steps we can take to protect ourselves and our communities. We also ask a bear expert how humans can learn to coexist with the animals.Guest: Ohnishi Naoki (Forestry and Forest Products Research Institute)

People entering middle age often experience a malaise that forces them to question their life decisions and sense of purpose. The midlife crisis phenomenon is a natural result of changes in the brain that experts believe can be slowed with increased levels of intellectual curiosity. We interviewed experts and media personalities to discover the most effective ways to beat the middle-age blues and find new joy in life. One practice that's recently become popular encourages people to look back on their lives and write down their personal histories. Another involves sorting through their anxieties and uneasy feelings to work out what really matters to them in life. Guests: Okubo Kayoko(Media personality)Nakashima Misuzu (Certified Public Psychologist)

The conflict between Ukraine and Russia has dragged on for more than three-and-a-half years now. With prospects of a ceasefire still seemingly remote, the war is shifting to AI-controlled drone attacks and long-range missile strikes. At the same time, reconstruction efforts are already underway in Ukraine. And Japanese companies are taking part, seeing opportunities to use unique technologies developed through experience of recovery from natural disasters and war. We look at what's happening on and off the battlefield.Guests: Hyodo Shinji (Vice President for Academic Affairs, National Institute for Defense Studies) Matsuda Kuninori (Former Japanese Ambassador to Ukraine)

We look at why weather forecasting lags when it comes to life-threatening linear precipitation bands in Japan, how researchers and the Japan Meteorological Agency are pushing accuracy forward and what that means for more efficient evacuations. From atmospheric rivers to supercomputer simulations and AI alerts, the work aims to deliver earlier, more local warnings that can save lives. Guest: Satoh Masaki (Professor, Atmosphere and Ocean Research Institute, The University of Tokyo)

Induced pluripotent stem cells (iPS cells) are a new type of pluripotent stem cells first generated in 2006 by Kyoto University Professor Yamanaka Shinya. Human iPS cells can be made from skin or blood cells and be turned into a variety of cells in the body. For this breakthrough in regenerative medicine, Professor Yamanaka was awarded the 2012 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine. Now, 19 years later, the practical application of iPS cells is just one step away. However, some hurdles remain, including development costs and irregularity in their effectiveness. With our guest Professor Yamanaka sharing his insights, we take a look at the frontlines of research on iPS cell therapy. Guest: Yamanaka Shinya (Professor, Center for iPS Cell Research and Application, Kyoto University)

A dangerous tick-borne disease is spreading across Japan. Severe Fever with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome, or SFTS, can cause multiple organ failure and has a fatality rate of around 30%. Some people have been infected while mowing their lawn, while others have gotten it from their pets. There is no vaccine and early detection is difficult. But there are ways to protect ourselves. We speak to experts about steps we can take to limit our risk of infection. Guests: Izumikawa Koichi (Professor, Nagasaki University Hospital) Sakanishi Shunta (NHK reporter)

For years, property prices and rents in Japan's urban areas barely changed. Then in 2023, the market exploded to life as investment money started pouring into new condos. In many cases, buyers are rapidly reselling for profit, a practice that's driving prices skyward and pushing house-hunters toward the used market or rentals. The result has been a sharp rise in prices there, too, leaving many renters in a precarious financial position. We look at what one municipal government in Tokyo is doing to counter the trend, and ask experts how residents can find an affordable place to live.Guests: Nagashima Osamu (Real estate consultant) Nozawa Chie (Professor, Meiji University)

So-called "lively libraries" that promote new concepts, such as allowing people to chat, eat and drink are gaining popularity, resulting in a sharp increase in users in an era of declining population. Some facilities use books and magazines to promote intergenerational exchanges and resolve local issues. In addition, some local governments have focused on their libraries' ability to attract users by allowing people to use them for free as a key part of urban development. We visit a library in Gifu that has seen its visitor numbers increase tenfold. What is the potential for public spaces to evolve into places for everyone?Guests: Yoshinari Nobuo (Former General Producer, Minna no Mori Gifu Media Cosmos)Itoga Masaru (Professor Emeritus, Keio University)

Miso paste, soy sauce and other Japanese fermented foods are riding a wave of popularity abroad. Major outlets highlight them as global food trends and high-end restaurants use them as crucial ingredients. But back in Japan, it's a different story. Regional fermentation traditions, often dating back hundreds of years, face the risk of extinction. Unique flavors are already disappearing across the country. We talk to experts about the reasons for this crisis and what can be done to save Japan's age-old fermentation methods.Guests: Ogura Hiraku (Fermentation designer) Uchino Masataka (Professor, Tokyo University of Agriculture)

Often appearing in athletes, the yips are a condition where specific actions become difficult. They are also seen to occur in people of all walks of life, such as a barber suddenly unable to use a comb when doing haircuts, and a professional musician whose fingers don't respond as they used to. The patients' condition often worsens to a point where they are no longer able to work. Long viewed as solely psychological, the disorder has been found to also have neurological causes. We listen to the stories of patients, including an exclusive interview with former pro golfer Miyazato Ai, and discuss the latest treatments with a specialist in the field.Guest: Taira Takaomi (Former Director, Japan Society for Stereotactic and Functional Neurosurgery)

From serving as conversation partners for the elderly to helping people walk again, AI robots are revolutionizing nursing care in Japan. The industry is facing a severe labor shortage, but the robots are helping to ease the burden on overtaxed caregivers and doctors. One expert says this is just the first step in the wider introduction of AI robots to our daily lives. As software capabilities catch up with existing hardware, it could be a matter of time before we see general-purpose humanoid robots at shops, offices, and even in our homes. We bring you the latest on the progress of AI robots.

A Japan Airlines passenger jet hit a Japan Coast Guard plane on a runway at Haneda Airport on January 2. Five personnel on the JCG aircraft died, but all 379 people on board the passenger jet survived in an evacuation some have called a "miracle." NHK looks into the circumstances surrounding the two aircraft and the flight controllers. Together with aviation experts, we analyze why the fail-safe system didn't work and how the successful evacuation was made.Guest:Inoue Shinichi (Aviation analyst, Former All Nippon Airways captain)

How do we face a turbulent world in 2024? We asked Nishi Kanako, an award-winning author whose books have been resonating with readers for 20 years. One of the main themes of her work is "reclaiming your body and mind from society." This became much more relevant to her after she was diagnosed with breast cancer three years ago. In her latest work, "Watashi ni Aitai," she depicts people struggling with life in the modern world who nonetheless find reasons for hope. She talks to us about the different shapes happiness can take.Guest:Nishi Kanako (Author)

Generative Artificial Intelligence has begun impacting many aspects of our lives today. We can see content created by AI in advertising on the street, TV commercials, movies and more. While AI can create high-quality content that would pass for real, there are growing concerns about copyright. Voice actors, for example, are alarmed by videos on social media featuring their voices on songs they have never sung. How can we tackle such challenges, and will society be able to keep up with the technology as it grows and evolves?Guests:Anno Takahiro (Sci-fi writer / creator)Fukui Kensaku (Lawyer, Japan / New York State, USA)

The Asaichi morning market in Ishikawa Prefecture's Wajima City was a bustling social and economic hub where roughly 200 businesses sold fresh seafood and locally produced crafts. Now the street lies in ruins, decimated by an inferno triggered by the New Year's Day earthquake. For locals and business owners, the loss has been incalculable. Although some have vowed to stay put in Wajima, many have been forced to evacuate to other parts of the prefecture, or even further afield. NHK spent a month with some of these residents, chronicling their struggles, and capturing their fears and hopes for the future of their home.Guest: Tamba Fuminori (Professor, Ritsumeikan University)

Five-star luxury hotels have long been somewhat of a rarity in Japan. But more are popping up around the country as foreign-based operators look to cash in on a tourism boom. Japan's government is fully on board and aims to more than double the number of foreign visitors to 60 million by 2030. But the surge in tourism is causing side effects for domestic travelers and local communities. We speak to an expert about what can be done to ensure the hotel gold rush doesn't just benefit the affluent but also contributes to a brighter future in Japan.Guest:Sawayanagi Tomohiko (Specially Appointed Professor, Rikkyo University)

The Japanese stock market is enjoying a historical surge. On February 20, the Nikkei Stock Average edged up to just 92 points short of the all-time high, recorded on the last trading day of 1989. Is this a bubble or a valuation correction? We look at a range of factors with expert analysis to see what's really going on and why ordinary people are not necessarily feeling the benefit.Guests:Itami Hiroyuki (Professor Emeritus, Hitotsubashi University)Kumagai Mitsumaru (Deputy Chairman, Daiwa Institute of Research)

More than three months after the powerful New Year's Day earthquake that struck Japan's Noto Peninsula and surrounding region, many of the survivors who lost their homes and businesses are struggling to put their lives back together. We spent time with some of the vendors who used to ply their trade on the famous Wajima morning market street. Some described being unable to meet the onerous criteria for home repairs payments. Others said they can't afford the hefty up-front payments required to get business support subsidies. Despite these formidable barriers, the vendors have found a way to work together to help each other through a trying time. We asked an expert what needs to change so that desperately-needed financial help can get to the people who need it most. Guest: Okamoto Tadashi (Attorney at Law)

Ready quick and easy to eat, hamburgers are the quintessential comfort food. But they also offer insight into the state of Japan's economy. During years of severe deflation, burgers sold for tiny sums. Now, prices are on the rise. While major chains have been able to raise wages, owners of small burger shops are struggling to do the same. We look at what hamburgers tell us about the economy and the hints they provide on how to achieve a so-called "virtuous cycle."Guests:Watanabe Tsutomu (Professor, Graduate School of Economics, The University of Tokyo)Matsubara Yoshihide (Hamburger critic)

Fake investment ads that feature prominent figures are abundant on social media in Japan, making an increasing number of victims. According to the National Police Agency, damage from such fraud totaled 27.8-billion-yen in 2023 alone. The celebrities featured in the ads are also voicing their anger. Platform operators bear some responsibility but what does the vice president of content policy at Meta have to say? We look into those scams that take advantage of Japan's current investment boom, as well as potential measures against them.Guest:Ikegai Naoto (Professor, Graduate School of Law, Hitotsubashi University)

At a time when artificial intelligence is making its presence felt in increasing aspects of everyday life, it's becoming apparent that AI is also beginning to shape the very nature of modern warfare. We look at how the technology is currently being used in two conflicts, the ethical questions this poses and ask if autonomous weapons systems with AI could even pose a threat to the very future of humanity.Guest:Sato Heigo (Professor, Takushoku University)

A growing number of Japanese people are pursuing their dream to start a small business. A shift in consumer preference toward small-scale, authentic goods over mass-produced products, and a surge in local government support packages, means the time has never been better. Low start-up and running costs ensure that these agile operations carry considerably less financial risk than their bigger counterparts. In some cases, they're even solving community problems, offering consumers choices they didn't have, or reviving once-dying shopping strips. NHK went to check out a number of ventures and interviewed an expert to see how small businesses can potentially point the way forward for Japan.Guest:Nagayama Munehiro (Professor, Komazawa University)

Japan is entering its "mosquito season." Besides causing itchiness, mosquitoes could now also pose a more serious threat in Japan as well. Researchers have discovered in Southeast Asia so-called "super-resistant mosquitoes" that require one thousand times the usual amount of insecticide to be killed, and evidence shows that some have already entered Japan. Furthermore, worldwide infections with dengue fever — a mosquito-borne disease that can cause severe symptoms and even death in some cases — have already surpassed last year's record high. Now that COVID infections have subsided to a degree and human activity such as tourism is recovering, the probability of infection via mosquitoes is increasing. We look at tips on how to protect ourselves from mosquitoes and introduce some "outside-the-box" technology to repel them.Guest:Kasai Shinji (Director, Department of Medical Entomology, National Institute of Infectious Diseases)

The Japanese yen is plummeting to historic lows. On April 29, the currency briefly fell below the 160 mark against the dollar for the first time in 34 years. Prices are skyrocketing at supermarkets. And many people are no longer able to afford overseas vacations, opting to go to local cultural fairs instead. What's behind this trend and how long will it last? An economist and a financial planner help us find answers and look for ways to cope with the current situation.Guests:Takayama Kazue (Financial planner)Karakama Daisuke (Chief Market Economist, Mizuho Bank)

Japan's central government officials are feeling the strain, with thousands forced to put in more than 100 hours of overtime a month. It's a stark number that officially puts people at risk of death from overwork, with many opting to walk away from their careers instead. And it's not just a personal problem — a lack of officials and the growing burden being placed on individuals also threatens to impact the quality and accuracy of policy-making and negotiations, which could have an impact on ordinary people across the country. We speak with current government officials and experts to find out why the system allows them to be put under such pressure and what can be done to fix it.Guests:Sensho Yasuhiro (Former Health, Labor and Welfare Ministry bureaucrat)Machidori Satoshi (Professor of Political Science, Graduate School of Law, Kyoto University)

Regulatory authorities are increasingly finding potentially toxic PFAS chemicals in the air, soil, and water — including the drinking supply. In Japan, the government has yet to introduce strict regulations targeting these so-called "forever chemicals," partly because research has not definitively established a causal link between PFAS and serious illnesses. Using public data, NHK put together a map showing where contamination levels have been reported in tap water across the country. In one town, the concentration was nearly 30 times the government target. The residents are angry — and some are demanding to know if their health problems are related. We went to a potential source of the contamination, and also looked at other possible contaminating sources in Japan, and asked an expert what the government needs to do to address this increasingly serious public health issue.Guest:Koibuchi Noriyuki (Professor, Graduate School of Medicine, Gunma University)

Six months after the Noto Peninsula Earthquake, rural communities are struggling to rebuild. Only some residents have returned and extensive damage to infrastructure remains. Concerns about the cost of rebuilding have led to calls for towns to be made more compact, while some communities face the risk of vanishing entirely. But experts on post-disaster reconstruction say there are ways to help. We take a look at the activities of a group of non-residents and see how "tailored reconstruction" can save these communities.Guest:Sawada Masahiro (Associate Professor, University of Hyogo Graduate School)

Despite its image as a benign mountain, Mt. Fuji's sheer height and changeable weather conditions make it far from easy to climb. Every year, people are injured or worse, often as a result of attempting the ascent without adequate preparation. This climbing season, new rules are being imposed to try to keep people safe and prevent further tragedies. However, the change applies to one side of the mountain only, leaving climbers on the other side still at risk. We look at why this is, what's actually changed this year and sum up some of the essentials for staying safe on Mt. Fuji's revered slopes.Guest:Takekawa Shunji (Board Chairman, Japan Mountain Guides Association)

As people across Japan were preparing to take their annual mid-August "Bon" holidays, the government issued a surprise alert. Officials said a magnitude-7.1 earthquake off Miyazaki Prefecture had increased the chance of a devastating mega-quake striking in the Nankai Trough, off the country's southwestern coast. The mega-quake advisory stayed in place for one week, but during that time many people in affected areas were no clearer about exactly what it meant or how they should respond. The confusion meant that some municipalities closed off tourist areas, causing huge financial losses for local businesses, while others pressed ahead with summer festivities as usual. NHK asked an expert to explain Japan's mega-quake information system and offer some tips on the best way to respond to a potential disaster.Guest:Sekiya Naoya (Director, Center for Integrated Disaster Information Research, The University of Tokyo)

Delays in rescue are said to have been a serious problem in the January 1st quake that hit the Noto Peninsula in Japan. As experts are still verifying the facts, we spoke to the first responders from the Self-Defense Forces, fire departments and police. Interviews have revealed little known facts, such as, that rescue teams had reached the very tip of the peninsula as early as on the day after the quake. Various problems have also come into light. We look at the lessons we've learned from this disaster that took more than 300 lives, and examine the initial response.Guest:Nagata Shozo (Professor, Kansai University)

Humans have always dreamed of living longer and healthier lives. Now, a surge of investment in anti-aging research is accelerating the quest to make it a reality. Researchers are focused on three principal areas of investigation – eliminating old cells, identifying substances that delay aging, and rejuvenating old cells. The results suggest exciting breakthroughs could be just around the corner. But as one expert explains, the new approaches are not without risk. In Japan, where people enjoy long lifespans, a study of centenarians is also shedding light on the biological, lifestyle and social factors that may be crucial to enjoying happier and more fulfilling lives in old age. And even beyond that stage, when care becomes indispensable, technology is ensuring people can still get the most out of the years they have left. We take a look at the latest efforts to help humans enjoy longer and healthier lives. Guests: Nakanishi Makoto (Professor, The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo) Arai Yasumichi (Professor / Director, Center for Supercentenarian Medical Research, Keio University School of Medicine)

Japan experienced a record-hot summer (tied with 2023) from June to August this year, with temperatures hotter than average by 1.76 degrees Celsius. Increasingly in the age of climate change, homes are getting too hot to tolerate, even with air conditioners running, as heat enters via windows and roofs, while the cool air accumulates near the floor. Thermal insulation can be a solution. It makes winters feel warmer and summers cooler too. We take a look at the kind of housing solutions we might need in the "era of global boiling."Guests:Mae Masayuki (Associate Professor, Graduate School of Engineering, The University of Tokyo)Mori Miwa (Architect / Representative Director, Passive House Japan)

On New Year's Day, Japan's Noto Peninsula experienced a massive earthquake that destroyed communities and livelihoods. Then in September, another disaster struck. This time, a sudden, violent downpour engulfed neighborhoods, washing away homes, flooding temporary housing for quake survivors, and triggering deadly mudslides that cut off communities from outside help. The tragedy has raised questions about the forecasting abilities of the Meteorological Agency, which didn't see the devastating rain coming, and the risk communication of local authorities, who built the temporary housing on flood-prone land. NHK visited the Noto region to gauge the extent of the damage, and see how residents are coping with this latest setback.Guest:Ubaura Michio (Professor, International Research Institute of Disaster Science, Tohoku University)

At the end of World War II, atomic bombs were dropped on Hiroshima and Nagasaki. The ensuing fires in the cities blew huge amounts of radioactive material and soot into the air, causing so-called "black rain." How extensive was the rainfall? The latest scientific findings are shedding light on this question and may help people not legally recognized as hibakusha, or atomic bomb survivors, win full medical support. Seventy-nine years after the bombings, we follow the efforts of scientists and interview those fighting for government recognition.Guest:Kawano Noriyuki (Director, The Center for Peace, Hiroshima University)

The Japan Confederation of A- and H-Bomb Sufferers Organizations, or Nihon Hidankyo, was awarded the 2024 Nobel Peace Prize. The organization was formed in 1956, 11 years after the atomic bombs were dropped on Hiroshima and Nagasaki at the end of World War II. Gathering up groups of Hibakusha (atomic bomb survivors), their aim is to appeal to the Japanese government for relief and to ask for a world free of nuclear weapons. As the Norwegian Nobel Committee explains, the activities of Nihon Hidankyo and testimonies of the Hibakusha have helped build up the norm known as "the nuclear taboo." However, in the current global situation, it is said that the risk of nuclear weapons being used again is at its highest ever. As we trace the footsteps of Nihon Hidankyo and the Hibakusha, we remind ourselves of the messages carried by their stories.Guest:Saito Osamu (Medical doctor)

Wealthy overseas tourists have been visiting depopulated parts of rural Japan in increasing numbers to savor unique culinary experiences specific to those regions. So-called gastronomy tourism allows visitors to experience the culture and history of a region through its food, and the unexpected economic benefits are already being felt. We explore the new frontier of fine-dining tourism in Japan.Guests:Kashiwabara Kotaro (Chairperson, Japan Gastronomy Association)Murayama Keisuke (Inbound strategy advisor)

Japan's medical system is facing a crisis, but it's not one that affects everyone — or everywhere — equally. Despite the fact that overall doctor numbers are increasing, they are unevenly distributed, both in terms of physical location and specialty. Changes in working styles and the way doctors are trained and recruited appear to be fueling the trend. We look at what the country can do to reverse the problem of medical unevenness.Guest:Takahashi Tai (Professor, International University of Health and Welfare Graduate School)

New data shows the average monthly pension for Japanese women is about 300 dollars less than it is for men. Across all generations, women face a greater risk of financial insecurity in retirement. The reasons for this can be attributed to restrictive gender roles in Japanese firms: men are promoted to managerial positions, while women are assigned lower-paying roles so they can focus on home and childcare commitments. As a result, women are forced to accept jobs that offer lower pension benefits. The "pension gap" is turning into a serious social problem as lifespans lengthen and more women choose to live alone. We look at what companies and the government are doing to combat the issue, and how we can ensure we have a comfortable retirement.Guests: Ido Mie (Social Insurance Labor Consultant)Bo Mioko (Social Development Research Department, NLI Research Institute)

Japan was once a powerhouse in the board game Go, but in recent years it has fallen behind rivals China and South Korea. So it was big news among enthusiasts of the ancient game when Ichiriki Ryo won the world's top title in September, claiming the honor for Japan for the first time in nearly two decades. Ichiriki's victory was the culmination of a concerted effort to overturn long-held ideas in Japan about how players should train and improve. He's also learnt to harness the potential of continually-evolving AI tools to gain new insights into the game, and broaden his abilities as a player. We look at the power of change unleashed by this new-born Go star.Guest:Shinada Kei (Go writer)

As the average price of new condominiums in Tokyo tops 100 million yen, secondhand apartments have become popular. But purchasing a used condo unit comes with pitfalls. Many such buildings only meet old earthquake resistance standards. As megaquakes are forecast to hit Japan within 30 years, seismic reinforcement is vital, not just for individuals but for society as a whole. However, efforts to implement seismic retrofitting are slow, and lots of vulnerable buildings still remain. We take a look at the reasons why and introduce some countermeasures.Guest:Kagawa Kiri (Lawyer / Licensed condominium manager)

According to the latest government estimate, the number of elderly people in Japan with dementia is over 4.7 million, but it's believed many more are yet to be diagnosed. They are now becoming easy game for real estate scammers. In June, four employees of a realtor were arrested for allegedly selling apartments at grossly inflated prices to two elderly women with dementia. An NHK investigation has found that at least 61 other people have also been persuaded to buy apartments by the same agents. They apparently showed symptoms of cognitive decline but had not received tests to diagnose dementia. Some of them were targeted by multiple other companies, armed with a range of tools from "scam lists" to instruction manuals designed to make them buy worthless land at unrealistically high prices. Our investigation looks into a darkness that runs rampant in a society where the number of people living with dementia and its precursors is on the rise.Guest:Komamura Kohei (Professor, Keio University)

In 2020 at a regional hospital in Japan, a woman had her spinal nerves severed during a hip surgery. It was later revealed that the doctor in charge had been involved in eight cases of medical incidents in eight months — a so-called "repeater" doctor. While the case is still under police investigation, similar problems are being reported across Japan. Some point out that the cause of such repetitious incidents is a nationwide structural issue. We take a look at the current medical situation and ask experts how to better ensure the safety of patients.Guest:Nagao Yoshimasa (Professor, Nagoya University)

A trial treatment program combines four areas of focus to combat the progression of dementia. The results show that by exercising, changing our diet, stimulating our brains and making certain lifestyle changes, it is possible to curb the onset of symptoms. Meanwhile, new drugs offer hope of a medical solution. But challenges remain. Doctors say Japan's medical infrastructure is not sufficient for mass administration of the drugs. We look at the latest treatments and try out exercises that can help maintain our mental capabilities.Guests:Kinoshita Ayae (Professor, Kyoto University / Director, Japan Society for Dementia Research)Iwatsubo Takeshi (Professor, The University of Tokyo / Chairman, Japan Society for Dementia Research)

In early December, UNESCO added Japan's sake-brewing process to its Intangible Cultural Heritage list, officially recognizing a tradition that dates back more than 1,000 years. Over the centuries, Japanese brewers have used trial and error to refine their method, which involves sprinkling mold spores over rice to create a critical ingredient called koji, before passing on their expertise to the next generation. Despite a growing appreciation for the drink around the world, breweries are facing headwinds at home, where consumption has been declining for decades. One innovative operation is working on new sakes that are better suited to foreign palates, while other businesses are venturing into so-called craft sake to win over new fans. We look at how a drink rooted in a centuries-old tradition is opening up a world of new possibilities.Guests:Yoshida Rui (Bar poet)Imada Shuso (General Manager, Japan Sake and Shochu Information Center)

"Regretting Motherhood: A Study" by Israeli sociologist Orna Donath has sparked a global conversation about the pitfalls of motherhood. The book was published in Japan last year and provoked both praise and criticism. An NHK program director, who is eight months pregnant herself, interviewed mothers about their regrets as she sought to find out why the topic seemed to have struck such a chord in Japanese society. Along with a studio guest, we think about how women can become mothers while still being true to themselves.Guest:Yamazaki Nao-cola (Writer)

Tokyo is in the midst of a major transformation that will see the skyline filled with more than 200 new high-rise buildings with cutting-edge equipment from robots to contact-free holographic devices and more. The government and developers are trying to attract international clients who can contribute to boosting the economy, but there are downsides to the rapid change. Vacant space in older buildings may harm local businesses. Some experts also point out the possible environmental impact, such as high-rises blocking sea breezes, making the city and inland areas hotter than ever. We look at how to make Tokyo a better metropolis for the future, both economically and environmentally.Guest:Masuda Yukihiro (Professor, College of Systems Engineering and Science, Shibaura Institute of Technology)

2023 may end up being remembered as the first year of the lunar space race. Companies from around the world are working on technologies to sustain life on the Moon. One Japanese start-up plans to build a community on the lunar surface by 2040, with a special landing spacecraft capable of transporting goods from Earth at a low cost. Another firm is trying to send a super-lightweight probe to look for water on the Moon later this year. Over 50 years since the Apollo program, humankind is once again looking to reach the stars. We report on the latest efforts to settle the Moon.Guest:Yamazaki Naoko (Astronaut)

Unlike other G7 countries, wages in Japan have been stagnant for more than twenty years. In addition, the country has lately seen a rapid decline in the value of the yen. "I can't earn enough however hard I work" ― a growing number of young people who feel that way are now giving up "cheap Japan" to work overseas. Some pick blueberries in Australia, making more than double the average starting salary in Japan. One Japanese woman who works at a care facility there is able to save up 3,700 US dollars a month to realize her future dream. Is Japan no longer an attractive place to work? We take a look at the latest trend.Guests:Watanabe Tsutomu (Professor, Graduate School of Economics, The University of Tokyo)Menju Toshihiro (Executive Director, Japan Center for International Exchange)

The world is seeing some amazing developments in Japanese trading cards normally used in games. Prices are soaring and in 2021, one card hit a record-high of 5,275,000 dollars. Trading via online marketplaces is accelerating the rocketing prices, while specialty shops keep popping up in vacant properties in Akihabara. The cards made to be played with have now become attractive investments as well. We visit the frontline of this fascinating boom in trading cards.Guests:Mizuno Kazuo (Professor, Hosei University)Fukui Kensaku (Lawyer)

What is life like in a warzone? How do sexual minorities navigate lack of understanding in daily life? More and more video games are providing windows into these sorts of real-life situations. As improving software lowers the technical hurdles for making games and distribution platforms become easily accessible, more creators are able to take risks and put their personal experiences into their work. We take a look at some unique games that have recently achieved global acclaim and popularity.Guests:Yui (Actor / TV personality)Inoue Akito (Lecturer, Ritsumeikan University)

The International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants for Russian President Putin and a senior official in March. It cited the transfer of Ukrainian children to Russia as acts constituting war crimes. NHK was able to make contact with some children who have miraculously been returned. What they told us was shocking. What are Russia's intentions? We bring you the latest from the front lines.Guest:Ikeda Yoshiro (Professor, The University of Tokyo)

Generative AI ChatGPT is sending shockwaves around the world. Simply enter a question and you will get an answer like one by a real human being. From a heart-touching love letter to complicated programming codes, ChatGPT can perform almost anything related to language. While use by individuals and companies has taken off, concerns are being raised about potential risks involved, such as copyright and data privacy among others. We take a look at how ChatGPT is being used, and together with an expert, consider the future of the technology.Guest:Matsuo Yutaka (Professor, The University of Tokyo)

On the morning of April 15 when Prime Minister Kishida Fumio was about to make a speech, an explosive device was thrown at the venue. Police arrested a 24-year-old suspect on the spot on suspicion of forcible obstruction of business. The explosive appears to have been a homemade bomb. Following the attack in which former Prime Minister Abe Shinzo died last year, there has been another incident targeting a high-ranking politician. With the G7 summit just around the corner, we will thoroughly examine how the protection of dignitaries should be handled.Guest:Itabashi Isao (Head of the research center, Council for Public Policy)

The International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants for Russian President Putin and a senior official in March. It suspects that the unlawful transfer of Ukrainian children to Russia constitutes war crimes. NHK was able to make contact with some children who have somehow or other been returned. What they told us was disturbing. What are Russia's intentions? We bring you details from the front lines.Guest: Ikeda Yoshiro (Professor, The University of Tokyo)

Cars that freely navigate the skies. We've seen them in movies, but test flights are actually being conducted around the world right now. In Japan, the first commercial flight will take place at Expo 2025, Osaka, Kansai. Some companies are even starting to consider how they can use flying cars in their business. A leading real estate developer is weighing the use of helipads in central Tokyo for takeoff and landing. Are flying cars really going to be a part of our daily lives? How will they change society? We bring you the latest in the "air mobility revolution."Guest:Iwamoto Manabu (Vice President, Economic & Industrial Research Department, Development Bank of Japan)

Popular tourist spots in Japan saw many visitors, both domestic and international, during the spring holidays due to the easing of various COVID-related regulations. While people in tourist industries welcomed the rebound, others are concerned about traffic congestion, littering and other related problems. Over-tourism is a worldwide issue, but what can we do to make travel more sustainable? NHK crews visited destinations in Kyoto and Okinawa to unearth some ideas.Guest: Nakai Jiro (Instructor, Bunkyo University)

The G7 Hiroshima Summit was held in May. Amid the growing threat of the use of nuclear weapons, world leaders gathered at the site of the first atomic bombing in wartime. The agenda included nuclear disarmament. But when the 'Hiroshima Vision' was publicized, voices of anger and disappointment spread among the people of Hiroshima including Hibakusha, the atomic bomb survivors. NHK followed these people who had been trying to convey their messages to the leaders at Hiroshima.Guest:Fujiwara Kiichi (Professor Emeritus, The University of Tokyo / Chair, Hiroshima Round Table)

Buildings of high cultural and historical value are being demolished across Japan. The high cost of inheritance tax, as well as issues such as maintenance and seismic reinforcement, is making it difficult to preserve such precious properties. Actor Kyoka Suzuki recently bought Villa Coucou, a 66-year-old detached house designed by a renowned architect. What was her motivation? We also look at some regional efforts to save historical buildings from being scrapped and, together with our guest, think about how architectural legacies can best be handed over to the future.Guest: Goto Osamu (Board Chair, Kogakuin University)

One hundred thousand tons of clothes dumped illegally in a Chilean desert. The tragic collapse of the Rana Plaza garment factory in Bangladesh... People are increasingly turning to a concept called "circular fashion" that may help end situations like that. Beyond Reduce, Reuse and Recycle, it encourages innovative designs and values that attract both young and old. We catch up with some of the new business models, as well as the people buying into these novel products and services.Guest:Yasui Akihiro (Circular-economy researcher)

In Japan, about 20,000 children are said to have been born through artificial insemination by donor. Since sperm donation in the country is carried out on the condition of donor anonymity, many people do not have access to any information about their biological fathers. Recently, a non-partisan group of lawmakers announced a rough draft of a bill to address the issue, but it caused controversy. Children who want to know who they are and donors who want privacy―respecting both sides is not easy. We speak to experts and people born through donor insemination.Guest:Tsuge Azumi (Professor, Meiji Gakuin University)

We live in a busy world and people want to use their time as efficiently as possible. "Time performance" is a buzzword in Japan, especially among younger generations. It refers to the level of satisfaction or efficiency in return for time spent. Speed watching videos, apps that provide summaries of books, gyms where you can start working out within seconds. These are just some examples of "time performance" in practice. And the recent introduction of the pitch clock in Major League baseball shows it's a global trend. How should we manage our limited time? We look at ways to improve our "time performance."Guest:Ichikawa Makoto (Professor, Chiba University Graduate School)

A year has passed since former prime minister Abe Shinzo was fatally shot in western Japan by a man who reportedly had a grudge against a religious group previously known as the Unification Church. We interviewed an executive from the group's Japan headquarters who is in charge of promoting reform to see what changes it's making, especially over the issue of excessive financial donations. We also covered politicians who have had connections with the group to see if Liberal Democratic Party's policy to sever ties with it is being adequately implemented.Guest:Sakurai Yoshihide (Professor, Hokkaido University)

North Korea continues to launch missiles despite economic sanctions from the United Nations. Where does it get the funds for this costly project? In March 2022, about 620 million dollars' worth of crypto-assets were stolen from a blockchain-based gaming company in Vietnam. International investigations suggest a mysterious hacker group linked to North Korea was behind the heist. What tactics enabled the group to steal such an enormous amount? We take a closer look at North Korea's underground source of financing.Guest:Furukawa Katsuhisa (Former Member of UN Panel of Experts on DPRK)

The release of treated and diluted water from the crippled Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant into the ocean started on August 24. Japan's government and Tokyo Electric Power Company say the treated water meets safety standards for all radioactive materials other than tritium. To reduce the tritium concentration, the water has been diluted with seawater so that it meets national standards. The IAEA has backed the release process, saying it will have a negligible radioactive impact on people and the environment. But China is fiercely protesting and has suspended all imports of Japanese seafood. How should Japan address the issue? We also report on the mixed feelings of local fishers in Fukushima. Eight years ago, the government pledged there would be "no disposal without gaining understanding of concerned parties" — has it kept this promise?Guest:Kainuma Hiroshi (Associate Professor, Interfaculty Initiative in Information Studies, The University of Tokyo)

What would happen if nuclear weapons were actually used today? Earlier this year, a group of international experts released a report featuring thirty different simulations of nuclear attack in Northeast Asia. In these scenarios, the scale of destruction far outstripped traditional estimates. We speak to experts on what needs to be done to avoid such calamity.Guests:Suzuki Tatsujiro (Professor, Nagasaki University)Hikawa Kazuko (Professor, Graduate School of Osaka Jogakuin University)

"We don't want our son to suffer like us," one Japanese farmer said, with tears in her eyes. The price of chemical fertilizer has increased by 1.7 times in just three years, with the country now relying on imports for almost all the ingredients. Fuel and livestock feed prices are also shooting up, putting more Japanese farmers in difficult situations. According to a survey, nearly half of Japanese agricultural corporations are now in the red. Against this backdrop, organic farming is gaining renewed attention. We take a look at efforts to save Japanese farming and help ensure the country's food security.Guests:Suzuki Nobuhiro (Professor, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo)Sekine Kae (Professor, Aichi Gakuin University)

Tourists have been returning to Japan in increasing numbers. But in a marked difference to the boom of the pre-pandemic era, a growing number of visitors are now venturing away from the big cities to enjoy the charms of quieter, less busy destinations. According to one survey comparing a 3-month period this year with the same period in 2019, the 10 locations that enjoyed the sharpest increase in arrivals are all in regional Japan. We visited some of these hidden gems to see what it is that appeals to international visitors and spoke with tourism experts about the growing desire for a more authentic experience of Japan's local communities.Guest:Frank Walter (Editor, japan-guide.com)

With energy costs rising sharply, one Japanese family we caught up with has successfully halved their electricity bill thanks to solar panels and a storage battery. In Japan, the number of new installations of home solar panels peaked in 2012. But it has been increasing again in recent years in what's being called a "second phase." We look at the benefits being enjoyed in several real-world scenarios. We also report on a community effort where a private company remotely controls the solar panels and batteries of hundreds of households to stabilize the energy supply and create local autonomy.Guest:Iida Tetsunari (Founder & Chairperson, Institute for Sustainable Energy Policies)

One in every three people in Japan develops shingles by the age of 80. The virus can cause constant pain and severe itching, and sometimes leads to even more severe symptoms. An unprecedented large-scale study done in Miyazaki Prefecture shows that the incidence rate has been rising in almost all age groups. We focus on the increase in cases for people between the ages of 20 and 50. We also report on painful aftereffects that can last for years, and talk to an expert about 10 keys for the early detection of the virus.Guest:Matsuo Koma, M.D., Ph.D. (Lecturer, The Jikei University School of Medicine)

Japanese chess, or shogi, has a history dating back centuries. But in October, Fujii Sota accomplished something that's never been done before. A miraculous come-from-behind victory in an Oza title match made him the first holder of all eight major shogi titles. In the final stage of the match, an AI projection gave him just a one-percent chance of winning. How did he beat the odds? And what did defending champion Nagase Takuya do to let him back in the game? We're joined in studio by a former champion shogi player and Fujii's mentor to discuss the historic showdown between the "genius" and the "hardest working player in shogi."Guests:Watanabe Akira (Professional shogi player)Sugimoto Masataka (Professional shogi player / Fujii's Mentor)

Cutting-edge technology is creating a range of plant-based food from omelets made with an almond-based egg substitute to pork-broth ramen without meat. These food tech products could hold the key to solving food shortages and may help reduce food loss. But are they really safe? How close are the taste and texture to the originals? Alongside experts in the field, we take a closer look at what we might be eating in the future.Guests:Ujiie Kiyokazu (Associate Professor, Faculty of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Tsukuba)Ikegami Saori (Representative Director, Japan Soyfood Meister Association)

Gendered innovations have the potential to help change society for the better by scientifically analyzing gender differences and what they mean at the deepest level. With heart disease, for example, research found that women are at higher risk of having its onset go unnoticed, so the number of female-specific heart facilities is increasing. In the automobile industry, completely different crash test dummies for men and women are used in accident simulations to accurately assess injury risks. We take a look at these and other innovations brought about through studying gender differences.Guest:Sasaki Narie (Project Professor, Institute for Gendered Innovations, Ochanomizu University)

Japan exported about 380 billion yen of marine products in 2022. The figure has more than doubled in a decade. Growth is being driven by an expanding global market. While wild-caught fish shipments have remained steady for the last 30 years, the quantity of farmed marine food has grown seven-fold. However, there is a big rival to Japanese ambitions in the field. Norway holds a dominant position in the world market when it comes to salmon and is looking to other species through collaborative efforts between private firms and the government. What does Japan need to do to become more accepted globally? We bring you the latest on those efforts.Guest: Ariji Masahiko (Professor, World Economy Research Institute, Kindai University)

The global average temperature hit a record high this year. As the effects of extreme weather due to climate change spread around the world, the number of people forced to flee their homes is growing sharply. Experts say the rise in climate migrants, or "climate refugees," could destabilize the world, but the international community has yet to set a legal framework to help these people. What should developed nations, which bear a greater responsibility for causing climate change, do to tackle the problem? In the first half of a two-part series, our anchor Kuwako Maho reports from Africa on the devastating effects of "the global boiling era."

The world's forests are disappearing at an alarming rate as human consumption spurs ever-greater demand for new farmland. Climate change is also causing deforestation, resulting in more carbon dioxide in the air. In order to break this vicious cycle, developed nations including Japan are under pressure to take on more responsibility. In the second half of a two-part series, our anchor Kuwako Maho visits Europe and Africa to report on the latest efforts to revitalize forests and slow climate change.

For our first episode of 2022, we interviewed two internationally prominent figures. One is Maria Ressa, the Philippine journalist who received the Nobel Peace Prize last year. She referred us to the famous phrase "Silence is complicity," but what does it mean as democracy stands at a crossroads? The other is Katrín Jakobsdóttir, the prime minister of Iceland — the world's most gender-equal country. We asked her for her thoughts on what needs to be done to realize a true gender-equal society.Guests:Maria Ressa (Journalist)Katrín Jakobsdóttir (Icelandic Prime Minister)

January 17, 1995, a magnitude-7.3 earthquake strikes the southern part of Hyogo Prefecture, Western Japan, leaving 6,434 people dead. Twenty-seven years on, many survivors who experienced the disaster are aging. In their stead, a younger generation is coming forward to share their own stories. We follow the inner turmoil of these young survivors as they confront losses that have been haunting them their whole lives.Guest:Wago Ryoichi (Poet)

Cybercrime gangs around the world are flourishing during the pandemic era. They are benefiting from a sharp increase in the number of people putting their personal information on the internet for online shopping, and a rise in out-of-work, computer-savvy people who have the skills that can help them carry out their scams. Experts in Japan say individuals, businesses and public institutions are increasingly coming under attack from phishing and ransomware schemes, and they warn that anyone could fall victim. NHK ventured into the murky underworld of the dark web to find out more.Guest: Arai Yu (Executive Security Analyst, NTT DATA)

An AI-equipped robot checking on people at night in a nursing home, a sensor detecting unexpected behavior in elderly residents at night, another sensor predicting the need for restroom assistance, and much more. These are some of the technologies already in use at nursing homes for the elderly in Japan. A shortage of labor is driving the digitalization of care, but there are some challenges, including cost and a lack of digital literacy among workers. How can we use digital technology to make both caregivers and recipients happy? We took a look inside some care facilities to find out more.Guests:Waki Mie (Representative Director, Organization for Prevention of Care Leave)Miyamoto Takashi (Board member, Social Welfare Corporation Zenkoukai)

In February 1972, the Asama Sanso incident captured the attention of Japan. The country watched on television as the radical militant United Red Army took a hostage at a mountain lodge and exchanged fire with police. Following the incident, most URA leaders were sentenced to death but Yoshino Masakuni was given life in prison instead. The presiding judge told him to devote the rest of his days atoning for his crimes. NHK has recently gained access to Yoshino's private papers. What was his role in the incident? Why did he join the group? We examine the regret and anguish he has experienced over the course of the past fifty years.Guest:Otani Kyoko (Lawyer)

The devastating 2011 earthquake and tsunami upended the lives of countless people across northeastern Japan. Many of them were young people who struggled to process their experience of the disaster and its aftermath, and who coped by bottling up their thoughts. We've interviewed some who are now opening up to their families in candid conversations about that fateful day.

The devastating 2011 earthquake, tsunami and nuclear accident at Fukushima Daiichi power plant changed the lives of countless people. In this episode, we focus on Ukedo Elementary School in Namie Town, Fukushima. All ninety-three children who were there at the time had to evacuate outside the prefecture and have been separated ever since. With the ruins of the school serving as an official memorial to the disaster since last year, we asked them to share with us their feelings about what they have been through.Guest:Kanebishi Kiyoshi (Professor, Kwansei Gakuin University)

With no end in sight to the war in Ukraine and major infrastructure such as TV broadcast towers being attacked, journalists in the country are struggling to report what is really happening. NHK was allowed to film a makeshift studio being used by public broadcaster Suspilne under the strict condition that its location remain secret. We take a look at the battle against disinformation tactics.Guest:Tsuchiya Motohiro (Professor, Keio University)

North Korea has alarmed the international community with a flurry of missile launches, and now appears to be preparing to resume nuclear tests. Some experts believe Pyongyang's quest for enhanced military power is a result of the conflict in Ukraine, which has caused a split at the United Nations Security Council, and reaffirmed Pyongyang's conviction that nuclear weapons are essential for deterring an attack by a stronger power. Others suggest leader Kim Jong Un sees military might as key to forcing the US back to the negotiating table. NHK asked a series of experts what the world can expect from Pyongyang in the months and years ahead, and what role Japan can play in an increasingly fraught situation.Guest:Isozaki Atsuhito (Professor, Keio University)

Renowned manga artist Fujiko Fujio (A)* died in early April at the age of 88, leaving behind a vast body of work that includes some of Japan's most beloved children's cartoons. But he also made comics for adults that grappled with the meaning of life and depicted the dark side of human nature. Those who knew him say he was interested in shining a light on the weaknesses that define us. What was the reason for this fascination? We take a look at his life to better understand the person behind the artist.*A is stylized in a circle.Guest:Okuda Eiji (Actor/Director)

Have you ever said or heard the expression, "You are a girl, so you should be more like this, or like that?" It has long been clear that sexism, however well intentioned, has serious repercussions for the person on the receiving end. The latest nationwide survey has revealed that nearly half of the female high school students in Japan feel their activities have been restricted because of their gender. We listened to some of them to find out what needs to be done in schools and society in general.Guests:Muramatsu Yasuko (President, Japan Association for Women's Education)peco (Fashion model)ryuchell (TV personality)

Businesses across Japan are increasingly touting the "No. 1" credentials of their products and services, typically putting up signs in shopfronts or posting ads on websites. But a closer look reveals that these ubiquitous claims are often based on dubious surveys carried out by polling companies that manipulate their data to produce a desired outcome. The claims have become so commonplace that experts believe they're losing their impact on consumers and undermining trust in all advertising. NHK consulted a range of experts to see how the industry should respond.Guest:Taniguchi Yu (Editor-in-chief, Sendenkaigi magazine)

It's been 50 years since Okinawa was reverted to Japan from U.S. control. Using documents and reporting, NHK has recreated the downtown Okinawa of 1972 in a virtual reality space. Seven young people travel back in time to experience what life was like in Okinawa back then. They meet residents and ask what they thought about the reversion.Guests:Gori (Garage Sale)Morimoto Shintaro (SixTONES)Tamashiro Tina (Actor)Shinjo Kazuhiro (Okinawan-born editor)

Have you ever tried 'karaage,' or Japanese style fried chicken? These days, there are lots of options. The number of specialty shops in Japan has increased 10-fold in the past decade. NHK traveled around the country to find out why. What we learned sheds light on how people in modern Japan are prioritizing a stable lifestyle over quick wealth. We also invited a cooking expert to the studio to show us how we can recreate the specialty shop taste in our own kitchens.Guests:Kokami Shoji (Stage director, Author)Horie Sawako (Cooking expert)

A tiny creature experts say poses a huge threat around the world has been reproducing in large numbers in Japan. It's the Argentine ant, a native of South America. As their numbers grow explosively, they can seriously affect our lives and the natural ecosystem. We take a look at some local efforts to prevent harm and damage by this invasive species.Guest:Goka Kouichi (National Institute for Environmental Studies)

Growing interest in gut health has spawned a field of research that continues to make important discoveries about how previously little-understood microbes shape the well-being of the whole body. It shows how unbalanced diets and other lifestyle habits can damage them and potentially expose us to ill-health and disease. Japanese researchers studying the intestinal bacteria of 1,800 subjects identified five types of composition that can indicate health conditions. We asked experts what kind of foods and daily habits people should embrace to improve their gut health and live healthier, happier lives.Guest:Naito Yuji (Professor, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine)

Months into the Russian invasion of Ukraine, another, invisible war is becoming apparent — the war in cyberspace. As Russia had launched cyberattacks on Ukraine's infrastructure before the invasion, Ukraine responded with its newly formed IT Army, calling for volunteers from around the world. More than two hundred and fifty thousand people have already joined, targeting Russian government functions and private companies with DDoS attacks and other tools. However, the civilian volunteers risk breaking the law in their own countries and even harming innocent people through the attacks. We take a look at the risks connected to this new type of warfare.Guest:Tsuchiya Motohiro (Professor, Keio University)

Japan's seafood culture is famous around the world. But the range of fish available to consumers represents just a fraction of what can be found in local waters, and the most popular options are largely imported. This makes them vulnerable to fluctuations in global supplies and ever rising costs. The trend has prompted some businesses to embrace unused and often cheaper varieties of locally caught fish. The growing appreciation for once overlooked sea creatures is a boon for Japan's struggling fishers, who can now sell their bycatch direct to customers through a range of online services. We spoke with one expert, who gave us tips on quick and easy ways to cook with unfamiliar fish.Guest:Ueda Katsuhiko (Former Fisheries Agency official)

Higher than average temperatures and a shorter rainy season mean people across Japan face a heightened risk of heatstroke this summer. But many don't know how to recognize the warning signs. We go through some common misconceptions about the condition and learn how to protect ourselves during the dog days of summer. We also take a look at projects using cutting edge technology to monitor heatstroke risks.Guests:Hosokawa Yuri (Associate Professor, Safety and Performance Optimization Laboratory, Faculty of Sport Sciences, Waseda University)Miyake Yasufumi, M.D. (Director, Trauma and Resuscitation Center, Teikyo University Hospital)Saita Kimiharu (Weather forecaster)

The killing of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe has revealed previously overlooked ties between politicians and the Family Federation for World Peace and Unification, formerly known as the Unification Church. Dozens of senior members of the Kishida administration, including Cabinet ministers and vice-ministers, have acknowledged some kind of connection to the religious group or its affiliated organizations. The connections are also seen in lawmakers from both ruling and opposition parties. NHK interviewed key figures from the group to find out more about these relationships.Guest:Tsukada Hotaka (Associate Professor, Joetsu University of Education)

Japan's music idols once occupied a world far removed from their fans, who could only watch them on television or up on stage. In recent years, however, social media and livestreaming have bridged the gap between performers and their fans and created a greater sense of familiarity. That shift has prompted some in the industry to question what role idols should now play. Idols are said to symbolize the values of their era. Our crew went behind the scenes to observe the production of some new idol groups.Guest:Maeda Yuji (CEO, SHOWROOM)

In the past, most organ transplants were from dead donors or between parents and children. But in recent years, medical progress has made transplants possible between people with no biological relation. Now, more than 40 percent of living-donor kidney transplants in Japan are between spouses. The new option provides a greater chance of improved health, but it also brings emotional challenges for both the donor and recipient. We follow three couples as they try to overcome their struggles.Guests:Miura Lully (Critic)Morozumi Kunio (Nephrologist)

A summit meeting was held for the first time between Japan and North Korea in September 2002, after which five of the Japanese nationals abducted by North Korea were able to return home. In an interview with NHK, the key negotiator revealed for the first time what happened behind the scenes. How was the historical summit realized even after Pyongyang said it would terminate the negotiations? Now, 20 years later, ties between Japan and North Korea are at a stalemate. We uncover some clues about how to break the deadlock from the lessons learned back then.Guest:Isozaki Atsuhito (Professor, Keio University)

The number of vacant houses is on the rise in Japan. Abandoned properties left to decay are potential arson risks for nearby residents. But now, investors—many of them young company employees—are buying these houses for low prices to renovate and rent out. Some local governments are even turning to them to help find affordable homes for the aged and people with low incomes. We look at how investors are finding ways to turn old homes into sources of income, and are solving social problems along the way.Guest:Nakagawa Hiroko (Writer specializing in real estate and housing)

At a UN General Assembly meeting in March, 26 countries from Africa were against, abstained, or absent in a vote to condemn Russia's invasion of Ukraine. It suggests Moscow's recent efforts to build ties on the continent have been bearing fruit. We examine how Russia is capitalizing on a power vacuum left by the west, with a mysterious mercenary group playing a key role.Guest:Abiru Taisuke (Senior Research Fellow, The Sasakawa Peace Foundation)

Grilled catfish with chili pepper. Crayfish simmered with garlic. These dishes aren't from restaurants in China, but Japan. A growing number of "authentic Chinese" restaurants are opening across the country, fueled by the arrival of young Chinese people who find Japan's relaxed lifestyle and work culture appealing. We look at how this trend could start a new era of Japan-China relations.Guest:Takaguchi Kota (Journalist)

Are you shifting away from plastic shopping bags to reusable alternatives? Perhaps turning to reusable cups at coffee shops? Practices you think of as eco-friendly may not necessarily be so. Moves are spreading to examine various products and services to establish if they are truly eco-friendly. And, in some cases, companies are being accused of "greenwashing," or simply appearing to be environmentally friendly. We look at what we can all do in our everyday lives to be properly green.Guest:Nakatani Jun (Lecturer, The University of Tokyo)

Consumers and companies across Japan enjoy a world where deliveries are often advertised as "free," and products are dropped to their door around the clock. But beyond this life of extreme convenience is another world, occupied by the truck drivers who work dangerously long hours for meagre pay, often putting their health on the line, and sometimes even risking their lives. Conditions are so bad that incidence of death from overwork are more than 10 times the level across all Japanese industries. Drivers say there's little they can do. They are squeezed between senders, who refuse higher delivery charges, and receivers, who also baulk at paying more. We surveyed some drivers about their working conditions, and asked experts how the industry can tackle this problem without bringing logistical operations to a shuddering halt.Guest:Shuto Wakana (Professor, Rikkyo University)

A machine maker based in Yokohama City found itself in the headlines in 2020 when police arrested the president and two other men for allegedly exporting a device that was subject to strict security controls. They maintained their innocence but were detained for almost a year. One man died during that time. It was only through rigorous testing by employees at the firm that prosecutors were finally convinced to drop the case. We examined how the investigation was distorted by the increasingly tense economic security environment around Japan.Guest:Hosokawa Masahiko (Professor, Meisei University)

Hot springs are an integral part of Japanese culture. Since ancient times, people have sought out the soothing waters of onsen hot spring baths for their power to restore the body and mind alike. But in recent years this practice has come increasingly under threat, with rampant exploitation of underground resources causing water levels to fall and temperatures to drop. While businesses are turning to deep drilling technology, it takes more than a hundred years for rainwater to seep down deep enough to create new hot spring sources. We bring you the latest report and talk with an expert about how to prevent these finite supplies from drying up.Guest:Takizawa Hideo (Director, Hot Spring Research Center, Japan)

Electricity bills are soaring due to Russia's invasion of Ukraine and for other reasons. Partly in response, the Japanese government has said it wants to extend the operational life of existing nuclear power plants and increase the number of reactors. This is despite declaring after the 2011 Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant disaster that it would not consider such a policy. With Japan aiming for carbon neutrality by 2050, the policy shift has pros and cons for its citizens. We invited experts from both sides of the debate to discuss the merits of turning back to nuclear power.Guests:Yamaguchi Akira (Director, Nuclear Safety Research Association / Chair, Nuclear Energy Subcommittee, Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry)Oshima Kenichi (Professor, Ryukoku University / Chairperson, Citizens' Commission on Nuclear Energy)

The animated film "Suzume" is turning into a huge box-office hit in Japan. In the movie, 17-year-old Suzume "locks out" sources of natural disasters across Japan before they occur. What's causing all the buzz is that places she visited are where actual disasters happened. Why has the film captivated the imaginations of so many people? We asked the director about the power of narrative.Guest:Makoto Shinkai (Animated film director)

Japan is currently experiencing a sharp spike in coronavirus infections, leading the government to declare a second state of emergency. Hospital beds are filling up and in one case, a patient was rejected by 24 emergency care facilities. At the same time, new strains from around the world present the threat of a further surge. We take a look at how experts are using the latest data and technology to avoid a worst-case scenario.

Japan is in the midst of a third wave of coronavirus infections, the worst yet. The collapse of the medical system could soon become reality. With beds in short supply, ambulances transporting patients are increasingly being turned away from hospitals. Many people have no choice but to recuperate at home, anxiously monitoring for a sudden deterioration in their conditions. We ask medical experts how Japan can bring the situation under control.

Japan's izakaya dining bars have always been places for people to enjoy a cozy drink and a bite to eat with friends. It's a dining culture that attracts overseas tourists too. But the coronavirus pandemic has the industry up against a wall. Some izakaya have transitioned into barbecue restaurants with robot servers, while others now specialize in take-out and delivery. A major worry is how to safeguard jobs in an industry where most of the workers are part-timers. NHK's cameras followed one major izakaya chain to document its efforts to survive.

Stock investment apps are becoming popular in Japan as share prices surge during the pandemic. Some even allow people to use reward points earned through everyday cashless payments to become shareholders. Such mobile investors could become a driving force in the market, as the case of Robinhood showed in the US. How will this new trend change our lives and the economy at a time when the world is trying to bounce back from the coronavirus?

The coronavirus pandemic has hit Japan's vulnerable teenagers especially hard. Some have been forced to take jobs to support their cash-strapped parents. Others have found themselves cooped up in stressful home environments as a result of stay-at-home requests. We spent time at a school attended by many struggling teens and documented the efforts of teachers and other staff to assist them as they make the transition beyond graduation into society.Guest:Ishii Kota (Writer)

On February 1st, Myanmar's military shocked the world by staging a coup. In the weeks since, civilian protests have continued to grow. Many countries have denounced the military's actions but China has maintained its policy of non-interference. Meanwhile, Japan is in a unique position, with strong ties to both the military and democratic leaders. How will the country respond to the situation? We talk to an expert about the growing impact of the protests.Guest:Nakanishi Yoshihiro (Associate Professor, Center for Southeast Asian Studies, Kyoto University)

The 2011 earthquake and tsunami transformed some Japanese townships in just minutes, taking thousands of lives, and leaving behind many grieving survivors. In one town, storytellers on a bus tour honor the legacy of both groups by sharing their experiences and passing on their memories to visitors. The program follows the same route with detailed visual simulations of the tsunami to show how people acted to save their lives and the lives of others.Guest:Ito Shun (Storyteller, hotel employee)

On March 11, 2011, a huge earthquake and tsunami struck northeastern Japan, taking thousands of lives. Ten years on, a father continues to dive in the sea, looking for his missing daughter. At night, his wife records her memories of their daughter on paper. She says "I try not to move on too quickly so the memories won't fade away." We report on a couple who lost their precious child so suddenly and how they have spent the past decade.

Live commerce, combining online shopping with live-streamed sales pitches, is rapidly expanding its reach around the world. Expensive items are selling like hot cakes despite the pandemic. The tide is rising fastest in China, which already has some 400-million live commerce shoppers. Retailers from major department stores to big home appliance shops are now getting in on the act. We take a look at the trend and the value the new shopping style provides to consumers.Guests:Takata Akira (Founder, Japanet Takata)Maeda Yuji (CEO, SHOWROOM)

It's been more than a year since the start of the coronavirus pandemic. An NHK survey has found that thousands of children in Japan have missed school due to virus-related health concerns. At the same time, major cities and municipalities have been slow to roll out online learning programs. As a result, many of these "voluntarily absent" students are falling behind their peers. We asked them to describe their experiences of the past year, and how they feel about spending so much time away from the classroom.Guest:Suetomi Kaori (Professor, Nihon University)

How is it possible that people who share homes with members of their own family can die lonely deaths and go undiscovered for days or even longer? To find out, NHK looked at a series of such tragic cases across Japan. We delved deeply into one, involving a man who initially failed to notice his father's death, then lived with the body for months. Our conversations with him uncovered a story of broken ties and work-related stress, which ended with the man and his father leading completely separate lives while sharing the same roof.Guest:Shigematsu Kiyoshi (Author)

The variant with the N501Y mutation, first confirmed in the UK is now rampant in Japan. Unlike previous strains, younger people in their thirties to sixties have a higher risk of becoming gravely ill. In Osaka, one of Japan's largest cities, the medical system is overwhelmed and people are dying at home due to a lack of available beds. Meanwhile, the central government says vaccinating the elderly must be finished by the end of July, but will the municipalities responsible be able to meet the deadline? We take a look at the frontline in the battle with the changing coronavirus.Guest:Kutsuna Satoshi (National Center for Global Health and Medicine)

According to a UN report released two years ago, the fashion industry emits more carbon annually than all international flights and maritime shipping combined. Many say sustainable fashion is the only way forward. Manufacturers are now producing clothes made with everything from old fishing nets to synthetic protein developed with the genetic information of spiders. In today's program, we look at how our wardrobe choices can help lead to a greener world.Guest: Miyata Hiroaki (Professor, Keio University)

This spring, young nurses in Japan started their careers amid unprecedented circumstances. They entered the workforce without the usual hands-on training due to the pandemic, but were nonetheless forced to contend with a surge in cases stemming from a fourth wave of coronavirus infection. We highlight how these novice nurses have overcome their anxieties and provided the best care possible.Guest: Nakamoto Risa (Nurse/Illustrator)*Today's Close-Up will continue to report on COVID-19.

Today we bring together Dr. Katalin Kariko, the Hungarian biochemist whose research paved the way for mRNA vaccines, and Professor Yamanaka Shinya, the Japanese Nobel Prize winner whose breakthrough on iPS cells indirectly helped to shine the spotlight on Dr. Kariko's work. The two discuss whether mRNA vaccines could be the game changer that brings an end to the coronavirus pandemic, and look at how the vaccines might cope with new strains of the virus.Guests:Dr. Katalin KarikoProf. Yamanaka Shinya (Director, Center for iPS Cell Research andApplication, Kyoto University)*Today's Close-Up will continue to report on COVID-19.

The spread of coronavirus variants in Japan is putting younger people at risk of serious illness. Despite this, many parts of the country are still focusing their vaccine rollouts on the elderly. With cluster infections breaking out at schools and daycare centers, calls are growing to open up vaccinations to younger people and those who work in high-risk settings. Meanwhile, experts warn of the risks of unique variants emerging in the country and are urging for the development of domestically produced vaccines.Guest:Hasegawa Hideki (Director, Center for Influenza and Respiratory Virus Research, National Institute of Infectious Diseases)

A growing number of Japanese people are abandoning the job-for-life model and embracing a different approach to work. For some younger employees, the aim is to achieve financial independence from companies. For others, the goal is to secure the freedom they need to seek out new opportunities in middle-age and beyond. We speak with the author of a best-selling book about how longer life-spans are forcing a rethink to traditional ideas about work.Guest:Lynda Gratton (Professor, London Business School)

In 2020, as the coronavirus pandemic spread around the world, governments and central banks ramped up their monetary easing policies to protect their economies and prop up businesses. The sudden flood of extra money into markets drove stock prices to dizzy highs and allowed family offices to take big risks to grow their already vast fortunes, even as the real economy was suffering. Now, as the world grows more hopeful about an end to the pandemic, investors are wary. With financial authorities discussing a scale-down of their easy money programs, many people are wondering what's in store for the markets -- can they achieve a soft landing, or will the party end with a crash?Guest:Numata Yuko (Professor, Meiji University)

Health authorities have watched with alarm as a succession of more transmissible coronavirus variants have emerged in different countries and spread rapidly across the world. Experts have used big data to gain a clearer understanding of how the variants moved between countries before arriving in Japan. Others studying cluster cases have gained new insights into the way the virus moves through the air, travelling further than previously thought. These lessons could prove vital in the effort to halt new and more dangerous variants lurking in our future.Guests:Miyata Hiroaki (Professor, Keio University)Wada Koji (Professor, International University of Health and Welfare)Hayashi Motoya (Professor, Hokkaido University)

Japan is seeking to eliminate the gender gap at home and at work. The key is to get rid of "unconscious biases." In this edition, we conduct "position change experiments," involving a husband and wife, and a male company president and his female employee. By trying to put on the other's shoes, what did they learn about the separate roles? We're joined by Brady Mikako, who recently wrote a book on empathy, and explore ways to create a society that respects different points of view.Guest: Brady Mikako (Writer/Columnist)

Around 2.9 million foreigners now live in Japan. Many came to the country for work during the bubble economy of the late 1980s. Now, they and their families are facing a serious issue: they can't find a final resting place. Cultural differences are one of the main reasons, as 99.9 percent of the Japanese are cremated. We take a look at efforts to create a society where everyone can be assured of a proper burial.Guests:Sahel Rosa (Actor)Ishii Kota (Writer)

In Japan, same sex couples and single mothers cannot find sperm donors through hospitals. Instead, they are forced to turn to social media, which some medical experts say is risky. Meanwhile, children born from sperm donation are calling for the right to know the identities of their biological fathers. In this report, we take a look at everyone involved in the process: the donors, the parents, and the children themselves.Guest: Kawakami Mieko (Author)

More people in Japan are opting for simple funerals. At the same time, a survey suggests many feel they couldn't do enough to properly mourn a loved one. These days, some people are choosing entirely different ways to say goodbye. One man kept his mother's body at home for seven days to mourn her with his family. Others are choosing to hold funerals and other rituals all over again. We take a look at the increasingly diverse ways people are sending off their loved ones.Guest: Ukai Hidenori (Monk/Journalist)

Every year, over 40,000 students across Japan leave high school before graduating. Many of them are living with problems such as abuse at home or poverty. Now, one dedicated principal at a Tokyo metropolitan high school is working to reduce the number of early leavers. Under his motto of "No More Dropouts," he has introduced flexible requirements to cater to each student and succeeded in seeing more kids through to graduation. We take a look at how teachers and students are finding their own solutions to a serious issue.Guests:Isomura Motonobu (Principal, Tokyo Metropolitan Hachioji Takushin High School) Ishii Kota (Writer)

Japan's elderly population faces a second threat from the coronavirus. In many cases, isolation is weakening their physical and cognitive functions, raising the risk of frailty and depression. Doctors are trying to tackle this scourge with an approach called social prescribing. The aim is not merely to use medicines, but to treat the underlying problems by helping patients reconnect with the world around them. We ask some experts how they are using social prescribing to break down barriers and build communities.Guests: Nitta Kunio (Chair, Japan Home Health Care Alliance)

Celebrated manga artist Saito Takao died aged 84 in September. His "Golgo 13" series runs to more than 200 volumes; a Guinness World Record. He established the "gekiga" style of realistic manga that appeals to adult readers. "Golgo 13" storylines featured forward-looking subjects, such as a nuclear plant accident and a deadly virus outbreak, long before they became reality. We take a look at what Saito wanted to express in his work as well as the secret that enables the series to keep going even after his death.Guest: Nagasaki Takashi (Former editor of "Golgo 13")

Solitary deaths at home and suicides are increasing in Japan amid the pandemic. The locations of these incidents are known as "stigmatized properties." It's a label that can drastically lower the real estate value, as well as making it very difficult to find a new tenant or owner. Moreover, due to the perceived risk, elderly people living alone may find themselves rejected when trying to rent an apartment. We interviewed realtors specializing in such properties, and the operator of a well-known search site for stigmatized properties to shine some light on a dark side of Japanese society.Guest: Tamaoki Myoyu (Buddhist monk/nurse)

Japan's first Lower House election in four years was held at the end of October. The main ruling Liberal Democratic Party secured an absolute stable majority, while the largest opposition Constitutional Democratic Party suffered resounding losses, despite unifying its candidates with other opposition parties. What led to this result? We followed candidates from both sides to find out.Guest: Murohashi Yuki (Representative Director, Japan Youth Conference)

Social tipping has grown in popularity amid the pandemic, as more and more users buy virtual coins to give to their favorite livestreamers. The market in Japan is estimated to have grown to be worth over 430 million dollars. While benefitting artists who lost income due to coronavirus restrictions, social tipping has created addicted fans, some of whom spend huge chunks of their income. It fascinates children too, with some secretly running up huge bills on parents' credit cards. We explore this growing problem and look at ways to keep it fun and safe for all users.Guest: Takahashi Akiko (IT journalist / Visiting Professor, Seikei University)

Atomic bomb survivor Tsuboi Sunao was one of the leading voices calling for the abolition of nuclear weapons. He died in October at the age of 96. On the day of the bombing of Hiroshima, he was just 1.2 kilometers from the epicenter and barely survived. He dedicated the rest of his life to the fight against nuclear weapons. And in 2016, he met then US President Barack Obama, the leader of the country that dropped the bomb on his hometown. We look back on his life and hear from people who knew him about the message he wanted to convey to future generations.

A British scientist diagnosed with a debilitating disease was given two years to live. Rather than submitting to the prognosis, he turned to technology to fight it. In the process, Peter Scott-Morgan became Peter 2.0, the first full cyborg. We spent time with Peter to see how his continuing evolution is shaping his day-to-day life. We also spoke with experts to see how technology is increasingly unlocking the hidden potential of the human body, and allowing people to perform functions previously thought impossible.Guests:Peter Scott-Morgan (Scientist/Author)Inami Masahiko (Professor, Research Center for Advanced Science and Technology, The University of Tokyo)

The humble egg, indispensable in the kitchen, is undergoing a major transformation. Global restaurant chains are shifting to cage-free eggs and the European Union has declared a ban on conventional battery cages for laying hens. The concept of animal welfare is to reduce pain and stress in animals through the creation of a better environment for livestock. It is also an important part of achieving the SDGs set out by the United Nations. Meeting animal welfare requirements, however, imposes additional costs and Japanese farmers are struggling to make it happen while investors put more emphasis on sustainability. We take a look at the frontline of the animal welfare movement in farming.Guests:Shimmura Tsuyoshi (Professor, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology)Kawaguchi Mariko (Specially Appointed Professor, Rikkyo University)

The 90-year-old star of the Star Trek TV series, a childhood cancer survivor, and a Japanese entrepreneur. They are among the 29 civilians who have traveled into space in 2021. Some are calling the year the advent of the new age of space travel. Private companies are behind this sudden boom, with the global space business on course to become a trillion-dollar industry within the next few decades. We take a look at the latest in civilian space travel and talk to an astronaut about what changes the "new space age" will bring to society.Guests:Maezawa Yusaku (Entrepreneur/Founder of ZOZO Inc.)Yamazaki Naoko (Astronaut)

October, 2019. A live streamer falls from the icy peak of Mt. Fuji. His death is broadcast as it happens on his stream. He attempted the climb equipped with only summer gear, leading to criticism online that he had underestimated the winter conditions and was seeking attention. What led him to take on such a reckless act? We looked into his life, and learned of an unexpected side of his personality.

Digital money is about to transform our society. People use it via smartphone apps to pay for purchases, send money to friends and a lot more besides. Now, businesses and even local governments are starting to use it to improve their efficiency. But questions remain about credibility and privacy protection. For a possible glimpse of the future, our crew went to Sweden, where the central bank is considering issuing its own digital currency.

Data shows that about 90 percent of groping victims in Japan are reluctant to report the assault or even seek advice, and 45 percent of people who witness the crimes do nothing about it. 2 women who run a tech firm have set out to change the thinking around this deep-rooted problem. They launched an app that empowers victims by giving them a platform to document their experiences. The app also allows witnesses to file reports. Crucially, the data it collects provides a clear picture of where, when and how perpetrators attack their victims. We take a look at how this technology is helping to raise awareness about a serious social ill.

More than 20,000 Japanese people between the ages of 15 and 39 are diagnosed with cancer each year. One of the toughest choices they face is the risk of infertility. It's not easy for young people to decide whether to harvest their eggs or sperm in the short period of time before starting treatment. We take a look at experiences of such patients and the latest efforts in the medical world.

Chocolate made with yuzu citrus and sake, or with dried persimmon and shochu spirits. The distinctive tastes of Japanese chocolate are fascinating people around the world. At the 2019 edition of the renowned chocolate fair, Salon du Chocolat, Japan trailed only France in number of chocolatiers honored. Most hailed from small and mid-sized companies previously unknown outside of Japan. What's behind this new popularity?

The threat of the new coronavirus is expanding beyond expectations. In Japan, the number of Chinese tourists has declined sharply, hitting a range of industries. The negative impact on economies around the world is becoming greater, with China no longer fully functioning as a global supply-chain hub. We look at the current business situation in Japan and South Korea and discuss with economists what countermeasures should be taken.

The fight to stop the spread of the new coronavirus has no end in sight. On February 24, an expert panel in Japan declared the country was entering a critical one-to-two-week phase. We take a look from the frontline of the battle being led by health experts to bring the outbreak under control, and speak with an expert about how we can help to limit the spread of infections.

9 years have passed since the Fukushima nuclear disaster and many of the evacuees are still suffering from mental health issues. Last year, a survey of 513 former residents from a no-entry area, Tsushima District, found that 48% of them are suspected of suffering from PTSD while 28% could develop depression or anxiety disorders. What is hindering their recovery? We'll hear their stories.

The new coronavirus is raging around the world. As the number of infections with unidentified sources increases in Tokyo, governor Koike says the city is teetering on the edge of an explosive outbreak. Can health authorities contain infection clusters? And is a lockdown of the capital a real possibility? We bring you the latest on the battle against COVID-19.

Doctors and nurses are being overwhelmed by the coronavirus, even before there's an explosive outbreak. Because the virus stays in the human body for a relatively long time, some hospitals say almost all their beds are occupied. Clinics and other smaller medical institutions say they can't accept patients suspected of being infected with the virus because treating it requires a great deal of preparation. What can we do to stop the collapse of Japan's medical system?

The Tokyo 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Games have been postponed due to the coronavirus pandemic. This has led to a number of concerns for the athletes. Those who already qualified may have to go through the selection process again. And for Paralympians, the severity of their disabilities may have changed by the time competition resumes. We spoke to some of Japan's top athletes to hear what's on their minds.

The surge in cases of people infected with the coronavirus is pushing Japan's healthcare system to the brink of collapse and putting medical workers under intense strain. People suspected of having the virus are struggling to find hospitals that will take them in. Authorities have requested that hospitals assign more beds, but medical facilities are struggling to keep up with demand. We speak with experts on the frontline, who are warning that Japan is approaching a situation where overwhelmed hospitals will no longer be able to save lives they could otherwise save.

In late February, a cluster of coronavirus cases was traced to live music venues in central Osaka Prefecture. About a 10-minute walk from these venues is Japan's longest covered shopping street: Tenjinbashisuji. Its 600 or so establishments range from souvenir shops and kimono stores to bars and restaurants. As the virus spreads, the flow of customers declines. Then the Olympics are postponed. The street reels from this series of heavy blows. We report from the scene as shopkeepers react and try to cope.

People are using big data to fight the coronavirus pandemic. Kanagawa Prefecture is the frontrunner in Japan in this regard. It sends questionnaires to the public via the LINE messaging app. The data it collects is used to predict which areas are more likely to have people with risk factors such as fever. In Britain, an "AI doctor" provides medical advice to people who may have contracted the virus. We take a look at the latest efforts to use technology to deal with the threat posed by the coronavirus.

Sports instructors, tour guides, event staff ... in Japan, the number of freelance workers is thought to be over 3 million, many of whom have been hit hard by the spread of coronavirus. Most work under verbal contracts without signing agreements and are unable to receive compensation when jobs are canceled. Some even become "gig-workers" in jobs such as food delivery despite the chance of getting infected. How can we protect freelancers' livelihoods during the pandemic?

Musical events, theater shows and other live performances ... thousands of events across Japan have been canceled or postponed as the coronavirus pandemic continues. One estimate says about 40 percent of an entertainment market worth 8.4 billion dollars will be lost if the situation continues until the end of May. Many artists and people involved with cultural events are in a tough situation, both financially and psychologically. How can we halt this cultural decline?

A tour bus company in western Japan had been riding high on a wave of inbound tourism when the coronavirus pandemic decimated its business model and forced a series of layoffs. The continuing spread of the virus has left the company scrounging for earnings and fighting just to survive. NHK spent 3 months documenting the daily struggles and anxieties of both managers and drivers. In this program we consider how the government can help such companies stay afloat in times of crisis.

The coronavirus is taking a huge toll on the Japanese nursing care system. Across the country, operators have been forced to suspend daycare operations, leaving the elderly - and their families - in the lurch. And home care services are unable to compensate due to a labor shortage that's been made worse by the outbreak. We take a look at what kind of support these providers and caregivers need to make it through this crisis.

To prevent the spread of the coronavirus, most people have been encouraged to stay at home. This means some haven't been able to see loved ones in their final moments. Others have been isolated from their families within their own homes. With no end of the pandemic in sight, how can we cope with housebound stress? We got some tips from an astronaut who spent several months in space, a psychologist who's been dealing with people's anxiety related to the Fukushima disaster and other experts.

The level of coronavirus testing in Japan is among the lowest in leading nations. Many people have had to wait for several days to get a test, waiting as their health worsened. The delay has also affected the country's emergency medical system. That's because many general practitioners refuse to take in those who have symptoms, but who have not been tested. Why isn't coronavirus testing increasing in Japan? NHK speaks to a senior official from the Health Ministry.

Coronavirus patients in Japan who show few or no symptoms are recuperating at home or in hotels. But, in some instances, patients have suddenly fallen seriously ill and died shortly afterward. What may be behind these cases are known as "happy hypoxia" and "cytokine storm." We'll look into the mechanisms and how to protect lives.

Domestic and international tourism have ground to a halt as a result of travel restrictions and stay-at-home requests amid the coronavirus pandemic. But industry leaders in Japan are taking countermeasures to overcome the crisis. We take a look at how the CEO of a major resort chain and the Osaka tourism chief are preparing for business after the pandemic.

Many people who lose family members to the coronavirus are reluctant to talk about it for fear of being stigmatized and shunned. The experience compounds the pain of being separated from their loved ones in their final moments. We listen to the stories of their silent grief, and discuss how we can come together as a society to support people as we adjust to life with a deadly infectious disease.

The coronavirus pandemic has put Japan's farmers and fishermen in a tight spot. School closures have put a temporary stop to children's lunches, and travel restrictions have affected demand. The result is that many food producers have to throw out fresh stock. On the other hand, some farmers are struggling with harvests because the foreign technical trainees they rely on are unable to enter the country. Japan's food self-sufficiency rate is below 40%. Given there's no end in sight for the pandemic, how can Japan ensure food security?

Growing numbers of people are suffering financially as the coronavirus pandemic continues to affect a wide range of businesses. Some have seen their incomes reduced by half, while many others have lost their jobs. That's led many people unable to pay their rent or mortgage and, in the worst cases, some have become homeless. We met with people in these situations to determine what kind of support central and local governments should provide and how that can be achieved.

The recent death of reality TV star and professional wrestler Kimura Hana has stirred debate on cyber-bullying in Japan. She is believed to have been driven to suicide by the hundreds of abusive comments sent to her Twitter account every day. We talk to people who posted comments, and ask experts what we can do to prevent such tragedy from happening again.

An NHK team chronicled the efforts of shop owners in Osaka's Tenjinbashisuji Shotengai, the longest shopping arcade in Japan, to weather the enormous financial impact of the state of emergency. Even after the government-imposed measure went into effect in early April, the arcade continued to attract crowds of shoppers, making it a target of the so-called "self-restraint police." We watched as the pandemic reshaped the community and forced store owners to adapt to a new way of doing business.

As COVID-19 has spread across Japan, so too have irrational attacks by the public. The harassment is directed not just at those infected with the virus, but also at their co-workers, family members, and others around them. NHK spoke with a handful people who became targets of abuse to see how it affected them, how they responded, and how they overcame the adversity.

Concerns over a possible second wave of coronavirus infections are growing. If we want to live less-restricted lives and keep the economy going, detailed antibody testing may be the key. It tells us how many people have actually been infected, including those who were asymptomatic. A project designed to analyze the results of antibody testing is being carried out by researchers from various fields, including genomic science and big data. We take a look at what's happening on the frontline.

The coronavirus has brought abrupt changes to our everyday lives. NHK asked former patients to share their experiences and learned that some are suffering from lingering symptoms long after testing negative for the virus. In this edition of the program, we hear from these people and consider how we can all live with the virus moving forward.

Japan's medical system was on the verge of collapse due to the first wave of coronavirus outbreak. It managed to hold up but NHK has found there were at least 20 cases in which patients in serious condition were unable to get the high-level treatment they desired. We closely covered some of these cases. What lessons can be learned as we prepare for a possible second wave of infections?

Japan's summer holidays are coming up, but a second wave of coronavirus infections is widely expected. How can we stay safe while enjoying a normal life? "Infection prediction maps" may hold the key. Used like a weather forecast, the maps can help us reduce our infection risks and take appropriate countermeasures. The personal data we provide lies behind the maps, contributing to a powerful weapon that may have potential to tame the pandemic. We'll take a close look at this intriguing technology.

The coronavirus pandemic is fueling a surge in e-commerce, with stay-at-home consumers increasingly going online to buy everything from daily necessities to luxury goods. But the growth in internet shopping is also attracting unscrupulous sellers, and for buyers that means an increase in risk. Reports of defective and dangerous products abound. In some cases, faulty goods have proved to be life-threatening. We look at what the operators of e-commerce sites are doing to crack down on shady vendors, and what buyers can do themselves to navigate the pitfalls of online shopping.

It's been two months since Japan's nationwide state of emergency was lifted, and the number of coronavirus infections is rising sharply again. Phone calls are flooding into some public health centers in Tokyo, pushing resources to the limit. It is also becoming clear that the virus poses an unexpected threat to the high-tech medical machines that are the last resort for many seriously ill patients. We bring you the latest from the frontline.

The number of people withdrawn from society, or "hikikomori," is estimated to be over one million in Japan. With movement restricted amid the pandemic, the support system for these people has been cut off. One expert says we could soon face a swell in hikikomori numbers similar to the one that followed the 2008 global financial crisis. We take a look at what is being done to help these people and their families amid these difficult circumstances.

Seventy-five years have passed since the end of World War II. Monuments and museums to commemorate the dead are disappearing one after another due to the advancing age of their staff and insufficient funding. At the same time, some young people play at soldiers, wearing the uniforms and accessories of the former Japanese military forces that they buy via online auctions. One veteran says the memories of the war are at risk of being totally forgotten with the next generation. What can we do to preserve and pass on the history of war?

Japan is experiencing a resurgence of coronavirus infections, dubbed by many as a second wave. Some say it has already passed the peak, but medical workers are alarmed as they also have to deal with patients with heatstroke and symptoms similar to COVID-19. They are also unsure if they can secure antiviral drugs like remdesivir when global demand rises. We take a closer look at the struggles of one hospital and find out what every individual can do to halt the spread of the virus.

A new breed of loan shark is exploiting the coronavirus pandemic by preying on people who find themselves in financial dire straits. The lenders target victims on social media and use sophisticated techniques to saddle them with massive debts. Shady operators also encourage people to make fraudulent applications for coronavirus subsidies from the government. We ask some experts what people can do to protect themselves from these financial predators.

Earlier this month, Typhoon Haishen approached Japan. It was expected to be one of the most powerful storms in the country's history, but changed course and lost strength. Nonetheless, Haishen set wind speed records in 33 locations in western Japan. The storm was a reminder of the reality Japan now faces. In this new era of the "Super Typhoon," how can we prepare and what should the government do to alert residents of danger?

Kurosawa Kiyoshi won the best director award at this year's Venice International Film Festival, becoming the first Japanese filmmaker to win the prize in 17 years. "Wife of a Spy" tells the story of a married couple during wartime Japan. The husband is trying to reveal the military's horrific acts to the public, and his efforts gradually involve his wife. We speak to Kurosawa in studio about the themes he has tried to tackle over the course of his career.

With the presidential election less than a month away, US President Donald Trump's infection with the coronavirus sent shockwaves around the world. He has been criticized for downplaying the risk of the virus and putting importance on reopening the economy. How will his infection affect the election? NHK interviewed a key player in Trump's campaign and some of his supporters to get a clue.

Whether checking social media, shopping online or playing videos, counting 'likes' and followers is now part of our everyday lives. But there has lately been a surge in the number of businesses selling clicks that artificially boost those counts. While housewives with hundreds of Instagram accounts can earn a little extra money, others get even more using software to click automatically. We take a look at what goes on behind the scenes.

The coronavirus pandemic has inflicted untold pain and suffering on communities and economies, but it also offers a rare opportunity for society to rebuild in a way that puts the planet on a path to a healthier, sustainable future. We spoke with some women in the business world and local communities about their efforts to inspire change on an individual and collective level.

Japanese companies dating back more than 100 years have survived recessions, wars, and natural disasters. Now they face a new threat that's pushing them to the brink, and threatening to extinguish not only generations of accumulated expertise, but the traditional cultures they underpin. We look at how local communities are rallying to their support, and how some businesses are preserving their DNA while adapting to the times.

The coronavirus has led to a rise in home dining. And as a result people are more concerned about what they put into their bodies. Amid this trend, produce from small scale farms is becoming increasingly popular. Consumers are able to buy fresh vegetables direct from farmers, via the Internet. And the products are often grown in a safer, more environmentally friendly way than those that are mass-produced. For farmers, the system not only offers greater profits, but the opportunity to make a contribution toward a sustainable future for society. We take a look at some examples in Japan.

Japan's hanko seals have been an essential requirement for day-to-day documents and official forms for many years. But a government push to bring workplace practices and administrative procedures fully into the digital era has put pressure on businesses and city authorities to eliminate the seals from most paperwork. We look at what the shift away from this long-running custom means for Japan, and some of the hurdles that are presenting themselves along the way.

The Tokyo Olympic Games are due to open in eight months' time, but can they really be held while the coronavirus pandemic shows no sign of ending? An international gymnastics competition held in Tokyo in early November was used as a test event. The organizers took strict anti-infection measures, but were troubled by a series of unexpected problems. NHK went behind the scenes to see what will be necessary to safely hold the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games.

In the latest Global Gender Gap Index survey, Japan came 121st out of 153 countries, and was the lowest among major advanced nations. The government is aiming to have women in 30 percent of leadership roles by 2020, but the figure currently stands at just 14.8 percent. What does Japanese society need to do to change this? Overcoming "unconscious bias" might be the answer. NHK took a close look at how some companies are trying to tackle this issue to find out the key to creating a workplace where women can shine.

More than 1,300 farm animals, including pigs, calves, and goats, were stolen this summer in Japan's Kanto region. During the investigation, local police arrested a group of Vietnamese nationals on suspicion of overstaying their visas. Their connection to the thefts is still unclear but NHK followed a trail of social media posts advertising butchered pigs. We learned about the tough situation faced by Vietnamese technical trainees, and how the pandemic is making things even more difficult.

On December 6, Japan's Hayabusa2 probe successfully returned a capsule to Earth after a six-year voyage through space. It is believed to contain sub-surface materials collected on Ryugu, an asteroid some 300-million kilometers away. They may shed light on the origins of life on Earth. The mission faced a series of unexpected challenges and NHK went behind the scenes to see how the team achieved the extraordinary feat of two touchdowns on Ryugu and the safe return of the sample container.

Skillful caregivers can expertly calm even the most difficult dementia patients. But what's their secret? Now, thanks to cutting-edge devices and artificial intelligence, we're getting some answers. A new science-based approach to caregiving is ensuring this expertise is being shared among facilities throughout Japan. It may eventually enable dementia patients to live at home longer and dramatically cut nursing costs.

Fake ads are increasingly prevalent on the Internet. They use unauthorized celebrity images and exaggerated endorsements to prey on consumers. And these days, they can even be found on reputable sites. What's behind the spread? As we try to track down the people responsible, we take a look at the dark side of online advertisements.

It's been more than 2 months since the former Chairman of Nissan and Renault, Carlos Ghosn, was arrested. As the power struggle inside the alliance takes shape, NHK television crews traveled to the Middle East to investigate whether Ghosn really misused a Nissan fund for private purposes.

"We've seen extraordinary change" - that's how the chairman of a leading motor manufacturer expressed the sense of crisis stemming from China's economic slowdown. Major Japanese companies have lowered their sales projections for the current business year. How serious is the situation? We visit a Japanese manufacturer in China to see what's going on.

A social credit system developed by China's biggest online retailer has taken the country by storm. 700 million people have reportedly received a ranking under Alibaba's Sesame Credit system. A higher score doesn't just guarantee better loan conditions, it has social consequences too. Critics warn that government involvement in such systems could herald a shift to a surveillance society. We ask experts about the potential benefits and risks.

Smartphones have become an essential part of everyday life. But overuse is said to lead to the deterioration of some brain functions. What are the symptoms of smartphone-induced brain fatigue? And are there any remedies? Our host, Shinichi Taketa, went on a "digital detox" and shared the results with an expert.

A video posted online by a part-time worker at a major sushi restaurant chain went viral after he was filmed throwing raw fish into the garbage and then putting it back on the cutting board. The company received lots of complaints and criticism and its stock price fell 7.6% at one point. Similar prank videos shot at other restaurants and convenience stores have also appeared online. What's behind the issue? We are joined by 2 experts, one speaking for the business community and the other for part-time workers.

It's been a year since wheelchair-bound genius physicist Stephen Hawking died. He left a parting gift in the form of a book, Brief Answers to the Big Questions. It's getting attention from people around the world. One question Hawking paid particular attention to is whether artificial intelligence will outsmart us. As he put it, "The advent of super-intelligent AI would be either the best or the worst thing ever to happen to humanity." We look back at Hawking's life to explore his thoughts about this and other big questions.

Japan generates 6.46 million tons of food waste a year. This figure is the highest in Asia and sixth in the world. How can we reduce this costly burden? An NHK director tried to survive solely on food waste for three weeks with the help of an app. The experience had interesting results for both his diet and pockets.

More than 70% of people in Japan die in hospital. With the inevitable rise in the death rate in the super-aging society, how can we ensure that people experience a more peaceful death? We hear from Myoyu Tamaoki, a nurse and Buddhist monk. She shares her experiences as a clinical chaplain in Japan and discusses the situation in Taiwan where the "quality of death" is ranked at the top in Asia.

Toxic parents meddle in their children's lives too much, or abuse them verbally or physically. The children lose self-confidence and suffer, even after becoming adults. How can people deal with the legacy of toxic parenting, and how can we avoid becoming such parents? NHK takes a close look at the complicated relationship between parents and children.

According to recent research, half of Japan's workforce is likely to be replaced by AI and robots by 2030. Not even highly-specialized professions like certified accountants and legal document experts are safe. Can we keep our jobs in the AI age? We take a look at several companies and a school that are focusing on developing those human skills that set us apart from machines.

A father on trial for raping his 19-year-old biological daughter was acquitted in March. Anger to the ruling has spread across Japan. It is because of a criterion called "inability to resist" in the Japanese penal code. The judge acknowledged that the daughter did not consent to have sex but decided she could have resisted it. We are joined by Jun Yamamoto, head of a support group for victims of sexual violence, who was also sexually abused by her father, and Keiko Miyata, a lawyer advocating the "inability to resist" criterion to discuss the issue.

Money spent on Internet ads in Japan is expected to surpass TV ad spending this year. Social networking services are the main battlefield for online advertising. The more followers, the more advertising money. But just how trustworthy are SNS influencers? NHK bought Instagram followers from brokers and tracked some account holders. We found that the glittering SNS world has a dark side.

In April, an 82-year-old resident at a nursing home in Tokyo died following an incident. A caregiver at the facility was later arrested for allegedly killing the man. The number of abuse cases at nursing homes in Japan has hit a record high. We take a look at the working environment of caregivers, and discuss how to prevent abuse and the steps to take to choose a reliable nursing home.

Our lives are inundated with plastic. One study says there will be more plastic waste in the sea than fish by 2050. Japan is the second largest producer per capita of plastic packaging waste. To find ways to reduce it, our program director tried to live without plastic for 3 weeks. What did he find out?

Organizers say 2 million people, more than a quarter of the population of Hong Kong, came out onto the streets on June 16 to protest. They were rallying against a bill that would allow criminal suspects to be handed over to authorities in mainland China. The series of protests eventually led to the effective scrapping of the bill. But anxiety over 'Chinaization' of the territory remains in the people of Hong Kong.

The Japanese government launched its "300,000 foreign students" plan to nurture highly skilled professionals. But behind the scenes, many of them are treated merely as a source of labor. And at one university in Tokyo, over 1,600 foreign students stopped showing up. We interviewed school employees and students to see what's really going on.

On July 11th, Japan's Hayabusa2 space probe made a second landing on the asteroid Ryugu some 280 million kilometers from Earth. It appears the probe has also succeeded in collecting "fresh" samples from the artificial crater it made in April. All's well that ends well. But a look behind-the-scenes shows the Hayabusa2 team fought an uphill battle to make this happen.

The Mozu-Furuichi Kofun Group has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The burial mounds, created some 1600 years ago, were made for members of the elite and some are even considered to be the burial sites of past Emperors and their families. Research has unveiled findings about who is really buried in the tombs and why they are preserved so well. The program digs into the mystery of Japan's ancient burial mounds.

The Tokyo Olympics are just 1 year away. The Games pose 2 challenges unique to the city: heat stroke due to hot and humid weather, and severe traffic congestion. What are some effective countermeasures? We conducted various trials to simulate how spectators will react to the heat, and we looked into the effects of a recent traffic test done by the Organizing Committee.

An elementary school student who understands Einstein's theory of relativity. A self-taught composer who writes a symphony in high school. They are the "gifted." There are supposedly 2.5 million living in Japan but unlike overseas, there is little support for them in the educational system. In fact, many of them end up leaving school. How can the gifted in Japan achieve their full potential? We look at some cases and talk to experts about possible ways forward.

"After 'Freedom of Expression?'" was an art exhibition held as part of Aichi Triennale 2019. It was cancelled just after opening. It had gathered controversial artworks from around the world, including "Statue of Peace" and a video depicting photographs of Emperor Showa in flames. The resulting storm of protests included serious threats, including one of arson. We look at the debate surrounding the closure and what constitutes freedom of expression.

A recent survey revealed that nearly half of the inpatients with dementia in Japan are physically restrained. The greying society and a labor shortage are behind the number. Medical staff say they dislike the practice but continue to use it for the sake of the patients' safety. Some hospitals, however, have succeeded in reducing the times they restrain patients and improving their conditions too. We take a look at the issue to uncover clues for restraint-free treatments.

On September 19, 3 former executives of Tokyo Electric Power Company (TEPCO) were found not guilty in a criminal case related to the 2011 Fukushima nuclear disaster. But new facts emerged during trial. An ex-TEPCO section chief said in testimony that company executives were given a report on the need for measures against a possible large-scale tsunami. And it was also revealed that another power company had already taken action. So why did TEPCO do nothing? We bring you exclusive interviews and a closer look at the testimony to find out.

Many of us rely on customer reviews when shopping online. We know they might not be completely accurate, but did you know fake reviews are being systematically mass-produced and traded internationally? NHK tracked down the reviewers, sellers, and brokers behind this troubling phenomenon and learned how they are undermining trust in the online community. We also have some tips to help you identify which reviews are real and which are fake.

In October last year, a research group at Japan's Kyushu University discovered the neurons that are key to the brain's perception of the taste of fat. This supports the notion of fat as the sixth sense of taste following sweet, salty, sour, bitter, and umami. If you are insensitive to the taste of fat, you are susceptible to lifestyle-related illnesses. In this edition of the program, we conduct a fat sensitivity taste test across age groups to see the relationship between tasting ability and health.

We welcome as our guest Akira Yoshino, a co-winner of the 2019 Nobel Prize in Chemistry. Yoshino greatly contributed to the development of lithium-ion batteries that are used in smartphones, personal computers, electric cars, and even on the International Space Station. He shares with us his struggles developing the batteries as well as his hopes for their future use in solving environmental problems.

If you are a job seeker, watch out. What you post on the internet is now collected and analyzed by artificial intelligence, scoring both your capability and character. NHK reports on an AI-based job matching service and examines the Rikunabi scandal where AI analysis of student job hunters was sold to third parties without their consent. Together with experts, we discuss how to deal with this phenomenon.

Polypharmacy is the practice of taking different types of medicines at once. Researchers have found that elderly people who are on 6 or more kinds of medication face an increased risk of unsteadiness and impaired consciousness. Some have even been mistakenly diagnosed with dementia. Others have been temporarily bedridden. And it's not just an issue affecting the elderly. Younger people who take medication and supplements together also need to be aware of the risks. What can we do to fight the dangers of polypharmacy?

Studies are fast overturning longstanding beliefs about nearsightedness. It has been revealed that as eyes deteriorate, the possibility of developing various diseases increases. But some of the studies also point to ways to prevent myopia. We look at a drug developed in Singapore that's the world's first proven to slow the progress of the condition, as well as an unusual plan implemented in Taiwan.

Sake, or Japanese traditional rice wine, is going global. And the keyword is "terroir." In the US and France, craft sakes made from local ingredients are proving popular. One former Dom Pérignon Cellar Master is developing a new sake with his own distinctive concept. We take a look at the latest trends in sake that are creating new fans around the world.

Half of the Japanese population develops cancer at some point with about one-third of the patients still at a working age. Most experience depression after being diagnosed and doctors say how they spend the initial period of emotional instability will greatly affect the outcome of treatment. NHK closely covered a couple in their 40's after the husband was told he had cancer. Their struggle shines a light on how to deal with the crisis.

In a recent program, we covered how widespread the use of physical restraint is in general hospitals in Japan and how reducing the practice can improve the conditions of patients. Right after the broadcast, medical workers and caregivers sent messages to NHK saying "You don't know the reality" and "Too idealistic." We brought some of them into our studio who, together with medical experts, discuss if the use of physical restraint can really be reduced.

Parental abuse in Japan has claimed the lives of about 50 children a year in the past few years. What's in the minds of abusive parents? We examined the counseling of parents over a five-month period to observe their struggle to change themselves and offer some hints to other parents in need.

The shift to renewable energy is accelerating in China, and Chinese firms are expanding their business globally, including in Japan, where renewables have yet to take hold. We take a look at the frontlines of green energy in both countries, and whether Japan is losing ground to Chinese competitors.

The recent discovery of huge sums of cash at garbage sites across Japan has prompted many to wonder what's behind the mysterious trend. The cases appear to be part of a wider culture of lost and found belongings, with the total number of forgotten items across the country recently surging to new highs. Are these cases a reflection of shifting societal values? We take a closer look.

Between 2 and 3 million ownerless dogs and cats used to be killed at public shelters every year in Japan. That number has been falling, and the "No-Kill" movement is spreading throughout the country. But that's creating problems for animal welfare groups and local governments. We take a look at the reality they and ownerless pets are facing.

Sales of dashboard cameras have risen sharply in Japan following a rash of tailgating accidents. The dash cam records the moments of a traffic accident, providing crucial evidence about the cause. And that's not all. Analysis of dash cam data is helping drivers improve safety. We take a close look at the potential of this trend.

On January 26th, someone hacked a major digital currency exchange in Japan and made off with the equivalent of 530 million US dollars of a cryptocurrency called NEM. Authorities are trying to find out who was responsible and how they got away with it. We consult hackers and other experts for their insight on the matter, and ask them just how secure the world of cryptocurrencies is.

Just over a month has passed since hackers stole 530 million-dollars' worth of virtual currency in the biggest-ever such theft. "White hat" hackers are now hot on the trail of the thieves. What it's like to chase criminals in cyberspace? We report on this challenging cyberchase and discuss cryptocurrency security with an expert. Guest: Masanori Kusunoki (CTO, Japan Digital Design)

In March 2011, one of the world's worst nuclear accidents occurred at the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear plant. The workers who responded to the emergency were called "heroes" by media around the world. Now, the Japanese government is conducting a health survey of the 20,000 workers involved in the immediate aftermath of the accident, but 60% of them are not taking part. Why not? Guests: Tomotaka Sobue (M.D. / Professor, Osaka University) Takayuki Saito (NHK Reporter)

The smuggling of illegal stimulants into Japan is rising sharply. NHK has obtained video footage from investigating agencies showing how smuggling has become multi-national and increasingly cunning in making ordinary citizens unwitting traffickers. A former chief of drug control describes the threat. Guest: Harumi Seto (Former Chief of Narcotics Control Department, Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare)

As Chinese President Xi Jinping begins his second term in office, China is building a huge economic zone called the "Belt and Road". It's being described as the Silk Road of the 21st century ― and Africa is in the forefront. Through this initiative, China is exerting its influence not only economically, but also in areas such as culture and social systems. Experts discuss Beijing's intentions as we hear reports direct from Africa. Guest: Shin Kawashima (Professor, The University of Tokyo)

Thousands of manga titles are available online for free ― and pirate manga websites are causing creators severe financial damage. In a search that took us from the United States to Ukraine, NHK tried to track down the operator of one such site. We discovered how the people who run such websites cleverly conceal their identity, as they make money fraudulently. Guests: Kensaku Fukui (Lawyer) Ken Akamatsu (Manga Artist)

A commode that checks your health, monitors vacancies in public restrooms and more... Japan is creating futuristic toilets in the lead up to the Olympic and Paralympic Games Tokyo 2020. China too is undergoing a toilet revolution, saying goodbye to the notorious "ni-hao" toilet. Today we bring you the latest in toilet technology. Guests: Atsushi Kato (Chairman, Japan Toilet Labo) Toshifumi Kataoka (NHK Director)

We discard countless plastic bottles every day. Now, millions of tons of plastic garbage have nowhere to go because China, once the biggest importer, stopped accepting it this year. Recycling alone won't resolve the issue. We explore the latest approaches and discuss the alternatives with experts. Guests: Yu Jeongsoo (Professor, Tohoku University) Sadao Harada (Associate Professor, Osaka University of Commerce)

It's spring in Japan and cleanup services are being flooded with calls to apartment buildings. But these aren't ordinary calls. Hoarders are on the rise and it's not just the elderly. Teachers, nurses and other working-age people are falling into the habit. We interviewed some to see what's behind the trend. Guests: Mitsunori Ishida (Professor, Waseda University) Emiko Kishi (Professor, Toho University)

The film 'Shoplifters' has been awarded the top prize at this year's Cannes Film Festival. It is the first Japanese movie to win in 21 years. The director Hirokazu Kore-eda focuses on families and family life in his works, this time a family brought together by shoplifting. We hear about what he hopes to convey through the film. We also welcome the lead actor to our studio to hear about the behind-the-scenes story. Guests: Hirokazu Kore-eda (Film Director) Lily Franky (Illustrator / Actor)

Did you know that goats and strawberries are producing medicine and fuel? Scientists are eagerly trying to use living organisms to create all sorts of things we use in our daily life. Some people call this a manufacturing revolution ― but does synthetic biology pose any risks? We bring you a look into the latest developments in this promising field, and find out about an organism that has the greatest potential as a living factory. Guest: Kiyohiko Igarashi (Associate Professor, The University of Tokyo)

Ads about new cancer treatments abound on the Internet, many lacking scientific evidence. Add to that the higher costs and cancer patients and their families are having trouble making a wise choice. The Japanese government recently revised the medical care law to ban such advertising, but is that enough? We discuss the various kinds of support cancer patients need. Guests: Satoshi Ohno (Associate Professor, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University) Shinji Takehara (Cancer Survivor / Former Professional Boxer)

In May, a 90-year-old driver ran a red light, killing a pedestrian and injuring three others. The incident was the latest in a growing number of fatal accidents caused by elderly drivers in Japan. Experts warn that cognitive tests given to drivers 75 and older aren't fail safe. Drivers counter that their cars are vital for getting around, and they can't cope without them. We talk to people from all camps to see what can be done. Guests: Masabumi Tokoro (Professor, Rissho University) Kenji Momota (Automotive Journalist) Chiriko Sakashita (TV Personality)

The so-called Forgotten Generation entered the workforce during one of the roughest economic patches in Japan's recent history. Roughly two decades on, these people are entering middle-age still carrying the legacy of that era. Many are unmarried and struggling in low-paying, temporary jobs. The problem is having flow-on effects for all of Japanese society. We take a look at the risks, and consider what can be done to help. Guests: Takanori Fujita (Social Worker) Masako Furukawa (Non-fiction Writer)

Culturing cells to create artificial meat, trying to modify your own DNA to build muscles, engineering a cure for a pet dog's disease … A new generation of amateur scientists is taking advantage of readily available research and equipment to experiment with nature…and create new things. Some believe DIY bio represents a bright future. Others say it comes with big risks. We consider both sides of the debate. Guest: Hideo Iwasaki (Professor, Waseda University)

Across Japan, the number of men who are becoming the main caregivers for their ailing parents is on the rise. Data shows sons are more likely to struggle in the role than other family members, and when that happens they can become frustrated and lash out. We look at the challenges faced by some male caregivers, including one of our own NHK directors, and consider what they can do to make their lives easier as they look after their elderly parents. Guest: Joe Sakai (Editor-in-chief, KAIGO LAB SCHOOL)

On June 10th, 12 Thai boys and their soccer coach were safely rescued from deep within a cave. They endured fear and darkness for more than 2 weeks. NHK was following the parents of the youngest boy, Chanin, as well as many volunteers. We report on how the operation unfolded. Guest: Hitoshi Miho (ENT Doctor / Cave Diver)

23 public broadcasters around the world surveyed millennials on a range of subjects, including sex. The responses showed that many young Japanese have a difficult and sometimes negative view of the topic, which remains largely taboo as a conversation point, even between family and friends. We hear directly from some Japanese millennials, and also talk to experts about how Japan can change to allow for a more open and healthy public discussion.

In December, the Japanese government decided to purchase two Aegis Ashore systems from the US. The land-based ballistic missile defense costs about 1.8 billion dollars. But the security situation has eased since the US-North Korea summit, and people are beginning to question the planned deployment. We hear what the experts are saying, and residents who are concerned about hosting these anti-missile sites.

In 1995, Aum Shinrikyo cult members released deadly sarin gas in Tokyo's subway. This unprecedented, random act of terror shook the world. How could such crimes happen? With that question still unanswered, the convicted Aum members and their leader Chizuo Matsumoto (aka Shoko Asahara) were finally executed last month. NHK had been exchanging letters with some of them. What do their last words tell us?

Our digital assets, such as emails, photos, or maybe even virtual currencies, are increasing by the day. But even if you think you have deleted some, they are still retrievable with digital forensics. The method is now even being used in courts to provide evidence. On the other hand, there is debate as to how much of another person's personal data we should be able to access, for instance, the data of a loved one who has passed away. We look at the latest in digital forensics.

We see a variety of ads on the Internet every day, but even those we don't see may be counted as page views. Ad fraud is growing and even big companies and government ministries are falling victim. NHK delved into the dark side of online advertising to identify some of the perpetrators.

Cars flying through the air, debris crashing through windows into people's homes… Typhoon Jebi churned through parts of Japan earlier this month, generating record wind gusts at 100 observation points, and killing more than 10 people. What can we do to protect ourselves from powerful storms when the usual precautions are no longer sufficient? We take a look at some of the videos captured by our viewers for ideas.

There's no end to the increase in overstocked products in the fashion industry. One estimate says the amount rose to 1.4 billion items last year in Japan. Burberry burned 37 million dollars' worth of goods, leading to widespread international criticism. How can the apparel industry reduce waste? We bring you a report on what's happening on the front line.

Actress Kirin Kiki passed away on September 15th. She died 4 months after the film 'Shoplifters', in which she played the grandmother, won the Palme d'Or at the Cannes Film Festival. In her final years, Kiki took it upon herself to write letters to people she had known throughout her life. We look at some of those letters to get an understanding of what the late actress hoped to pass on.

It was recently announced that Professor Tasuku Honjo was a co-winner of this year's Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine. As he paved the way towards a fourth treatment method for cancer, his passion and research philosophy affected not only his colleagues and students but a wide range of people. The professor talks about how the new drug Opdivo was developed as well as the future of cancer treatment.

Breast cancer is rising sharply in Japan, with one out of 11 women diagnosed with the disease. But fewer are dying thanks to early detection and medical advances. How are they living with the diagnosis and what is the role of family and friends in easing their fears? We interviewed some women who have overcome the disease and are living life with renewed optimism.

Japanese whisky has risen from humble origins to become one of the most coveted spirits in the world. In recent years, some of the best examples have swept the field at prestigious competitions in Britain. At auctions, they command top dollar, with one bottle fetching more than 300,000 dollars. The success story is one built on the graft of distillers and blenders, and youthful ambition.

Japanese agriculture is facing a crisis due to a labor shortage. Its skills and know-how tend to be dependent on individual farmers - and not shared with the overall industry, which needs them in order to expand. Some people are trying to save the country's farming sector with AI, robots and other cutting-edge technologies. We report on the frontline of Japan's farming revolution.

A sense of crisis is mounting. A report says the amount of plastic waste in the ocean could outweigh fish by 2050. More restaurants and retailers are cutting back on the use of plastic products. But that may not be enough. Disposal facilities around Japan are starting to overflow since China stopped importing plastic waste last December. We look at the situation and what each one of us can do to help resolve the problem.

After an accounting scandal and enormous failure in the nuclear power business, Toshiba seemed to be scraping the bottom. Its revival is now up to Nobuaki Kurumatani, the first CEO from outside the company in 53 years. We asked him about his strategy and report on the struggles of employees and managers as they work to rebuild the company.

The former head of Nissan Motor, Carlos Ghosn, was arrested on November 19 in connection with alleged financial misconduct. Ghosn became COO in 1999, at a time when the company was facing financial crisis. Nicknamed the "Cost Cutter," the charismatic leader soon restored the company's profitability. He went on to serve as chairman of the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi alliance. But now, Nissan says Ghosn underreported his income and misused company funds over several years. NHK's exclusive coverage helps shed light on the matter.

In Japan, more companies are hiring people with developmental disorders. That's not just because of the labor shortage or stricter government requirements. Businesses need such people because of their special skills. However, it's a fact that some of them aren't good at interpersonal communication and can be easily distracted. How can society use their abilities to everyone's benefit?

The number of foreign workers in Japan has increased over 2.5 fold in the past decade, and a labor shortage has led to heated discussions on a bill to allow more. Japan can no longer get by without foreign workers but this has led to friction in some communities. How can Japan overcome such issues and live in harmony? We take a look at how some municipalities are handling the situation.

People with dementia are often targeted by scams. But recently, a growing number have been arrested for committing the crimes. Unknowingly turned into participants, some have even been found guilty in court. NHK has covered a number of these cases, including one where more than 10 million US dollars were stolen. What can society do to stop this growing problem?

"Sapiens A Brief History of Humankind" has become popular with leaders and intellectuals around the world. The best-seller offers insights that can help us to live in this world of conflict and division. The author talks about how we can create a better future.

Workers from overseas are filling in the gaps in Japan's labor force. But as their numbers rise, some are fleeing their assigned workplaces and overstaying their visit. Our report tracks down some of these workers and discovers the expanding illegal networks that entice them.

A Japanese animation set in wartime Hiroshima before the city's A-bombing has become a long-running hit. "In This Corner of the World" depicts how ordinary people go about their lives. It makes a powerful statement about human resilience under extraordinary circumstances. We consider the film's universal message.

Japan's online job market is growing rapidly. But it poses problems such as low wages and copyright. How can freelancers and businesses that offer jobs online develop win-win relationships? We report from the front line.

It's getting harder to tell fact from fiction…especially in a world of alternative facts. Every day we're bombarded by information from numerous sources, and hidden among that information is a growing stream of fake news stories. One such story even triggered a shooting. We look at how fake news starts and spreads.

Fake news is everywhere. It can do real social harm, and we may be helping to spread it unintentionally on the devices we use every day. Are there ways to stop the proliferation of false information in cyberspace? We take a look at recent efforts and hear from the experts.

A new form of US racist ideology, the so-called alt-right, has been widening social divisions with the emergence of Donald Trump. We interview Richard Spencer, a leader of the movement, and a figure from a minority group that is taking up arms against it.

Last July, nineteen people with disabilities were killed at a care facility. The suspect, a former member of staff, declared the lives of disabled people to be worthless. With the names of the victims undisclosed for privacy reasons, NHK has set up a website with the approval of their families to shine a light on their lives. As we look at the outpouring of messages from the public, we reflect on what the incident means for us.

It's been six years since the Great East Japan Earthquake and the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear disaster. Harassment of people evacuated from the area has recently come to light, triggered by a memo written by an elementary school pupil. He was bullied severely at school just because he was an evacuee. NHK survey reveals the reality of evacuees' suffering.

Did you know your fingerprint can be stolen from a photo uploaded to social media? And your facial data may be captured whenever you enter a convenience store or supermarket? Rapid innovations in technology are helping authorities and businesses fight crime, but they're also coming at a cost to our privacy. We take a look at the benefits and drawbacks.

More people are taking out bank card loans they can't repay. They thought it was safe to borrow money from banks -- and it was so easy. Why do many banks promote such loans and sometimes lend people too much money? We report on the risks of bank card loans and discuss how to prevent people from falling into the debt trap.

Academy Award-winning composer Ryuichi Sakamoto has released his first new album in eight years. Titled 'async', the album plays with ideas of asynchronization. What is his message? We interviewed the artist who continues to push the frontiers of music.

In 2013, former NSA contractor Edward Snowden shocked the world when he released a trove of documents exposing US mass surveillance activities. Now, 13 new files from Snowden show that Japan was also a target. NHK got an advance look at the latest documents. We discuss what they reveal about previously unknown links between Japan and the US intelligence agency.

In April, former NSA contractor Edward Snowden released a batch of classified intelligence files on Japan. One document claimed that the US provided Japan with a mass-surveillance program. For the second installment in our series, we sat down with Snowden for an exclusive interview, as part of a broader discussion about the competing interests of privacy and security.

If you are a middle-age man and feel tired or irritable for no obvious reason, it may be a condition called male menopause. We enlisted some men who suffer the symptoms and look at the medical advice of a specialist.

Telomeres sit at the ends of the chromosomes in each human cell. They may hold the key to a long, healthy and youthful life. In this week's program, we look at the latest studies on telomeres, and practical methods for maintaining them and leading a healthy lifestyle.

When an asteroid strikes the Earth, it can destroy an entire city… or more. Astronomers have so far found about 16,000 asteroids that might cross into Earth's orbit. How can we prevent one of them striking our planet? We look at ideas from astronomers at the Planetary Defense Conference, held in Tokyo last month.

It's been a taboo in Japan for doctors to take a patient off life-support. But in the last decade, attitudes have been changing. Doctors now have guidelines to discuss end-of-life options with patients and their families, including stopping life prolonging treatments. We'll report from the medical frontlines.

Japan is a rapidly graying society. The number of widows and widowers is steadily rising. Many of them live by themselves and feel lonely now that their partners are gone. We take a look at how they are trying to recover from their loss and lead positive and happy lives.

A bag containing plutonium recently burst at a Japanese nuclear facility, exposing five workers to radiation. Questions are being asked about why such accidents repeatedly occur in a country that keeps almost 11 tons of plutonium. We look at issues of safety management and think about how to prevent future accidents.

Famous manga artist and mother of two teenagers Rieko Saibara prompted shock and praise when she declared she was giving up the chores of motherhood, as well as the end of her popular newspaper cartoon, "Kaasan - Mom's Life". At a time when many parents help their children find jobs and even marriage partners, we ask Saibara for her insights into parent-child relations.

The latest string of terrorist attacks shows anyone can be a target. One year after members of an Islamic extremist group stormed a Bangladesh restaurant, killing 22 people including seven Japanese, we ask how we can protect ourselves from such incidents.

The world's first treaty placing a legal ban on nuclear weapons was passed on July 7th. But nuclear states such as the United States, along with Japan and 27 other countries under the US nuclear umbrella, didn't sign it. Can a "nuclear-free world" be realized? We hear what the head of the UN's disarmament office has to say.

While Japan's big firms enjoy the benefits of an economic recovery, many subcontractors endure unfair and exploitative practices. These small and mid-size companies employ about 70 percent of the nation's workforce. We examine why they're at a disadvantage, and look at the efforts to rectify the problem.

Hakuho has set a new Grand Sumo record in career wins. When he came to Japan from Mongolia 17 years ago, he was a skinny 15-year-old boy. His success is unprecedented in the harsh world of the traditional Japanese martial art. We spoke with him right after the July tournament where he made history, and asked him what his next goal is.

Cryptocurrencies are becoming popular. A growing number of online traders are making huge profits by trading in them, but the values of cryptocurrencies are extremely volatile. What are their merits and demerits? We hear what experts have to say about the potential effect of virtual currencies on our daily lives.

Japan is seeing a rise in unclaimed human remains. Abandoned urns containing ashes have been found in coin-lockers, highway rest stops, and even in a rubbish bin at a race track. We look at factors including economic reasons behind this growing social problem.

Japan is seeing an increase in people who want to contribute to society by bequeathing their assets. The amounts and the recipients are varied. What motivates people to give away their property? How can problems with bereaved family members be avoided? We look closely at the issue and talk to experts for advice.

Can you be sure the medication you've been prescribed is the real deal? Fake drugs can be fatal, and now they've made their way into legitimate supply channels in Japan. Criminal organizations aren't solely to blame. Industry practices have contributed, too. We ask the experts what can be done to tackle the problem.

It's a delicate subject, but one of the hardest challenges for both caregivers and recipients in Japan's super-aging society is toileting. Many people are reluctant to ask for help. In this program, we look at some tips and high-tech devices that ease the burden.

A rising number of investors are focusing on firms that meet ESG criteria - and they're changing the way business is done. ESG stands for "environmental", "social" and "governance", and if companies are careless about these factors, they might not raise enough money from the markets. We ask experts what this investment trend is about, and look at some businesses trying to keep up with the standards.

A humanitarian crisis is unfolding in Asia. Fleeing clashes with the military in Myanmar, some 500 thousand Rohingya have fled to Bangladesh in just over a month. They are Muslims, denied citizenship by Myanmar's government. What can Aung San Suu Kyi do to resolve the problem? We bring you the latest from the frontline.

ICAN started with a small number of young people with little experience. How could such an organization become the driving force in achieving an international treaty banning nuclear weapons - something that no one thought was possible? NHK has been following the group for four years. Let's take a look behind the scenes.

With China investing heavily in electric vehicles, and the UK and France announcing they will ban sales of gas and diesel cars by 2040, automakers worldwide are preparing for a major transition. We take a look at how manufacturers are reacting as the move to electric technology gathers pace.

Home appliances can be a source of danger. They can cause accidents such as fires as well as injuries, which has led some people to call them silent time-bombs. We take a look at what's behind this and hear experts discuss possible countermeasures.

As a by-product of its civilian nuclear power generation, Japan has currently piled up 47 tons of plutonium. The US and other countries are concerned at the potential for weaponizing this plutonium stockpile, together with the potential for global proliferation of plutonium concurrent with civilian nuclear power generation. We explore Japan's unique situation from a nuanced perspective, shedding light on the issues.

The government of Japan has said the country's literacy rate is nearly 100%. But a recent NHK survey shows otherwise. For various reasons, there are young people who are not able to finish the nine years of compulsory education. Through interviews with them and discussion with experts, we explore the background to this problem and what can be done about it.

What if you were falsely declared a murderer online and there was nothing you could do to clear your name? Such was the situation facing a young comedian when he became the innocent victim of internet mob justice. We interviewed him, as well as other victims and their attackers, to find out what drives this growing phenomenon, and how society should respond.

Richard Thaler has won this year's Nobel Prize in Economics for his contribution to behavioral economics. His ideas have helped people cut household spending and have generated huge economic benefits. Today we introduce you to some of them, which may nudge you into improving your daily life.

In October, police found 9 dismembered bodies near Tokyo. The murder suspect used Twitter to lure the victims. Hate speech is also rampant on the service. As the social and political impacts of online services increase, how can we manage their use? We speak to Jack Dorsey about the potential of Twitter.

Japan has fallen behind the US in information technology and lost out to other Asian countries in manufacturing. But now it has a chance to be a global technological leader once again - through robotics. Today we look at what two firms, Sony and Softbank, are doing to promote artificially intelligent robots in our everyday lives. And we ask: are robots the key to the resurgence of Japanese industry?

The UN adopted the Nuclear Ban Treaty this year, and ICAN, which contributed to its adoption, was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize. But Japan, the only nation attacked by atomic bombs, is against the treaty. How can Japan be a bridge between nuclear and non-nuclear weapons states? We ask atomic bomb survivor Setsuko Thurlow, who gave a speech at the Nobel ceremony, as well as Japanese Foreign Minister Taro Kono.

On May 27th, Barack Obama visited Hiroshima as leader of the only country that has used atomic bomb in war. He is the first, serving US president to do so. How did he arrive at this decision and what do A-bomb survivors expect of his visit? The president explains his intentions in an exclusive interview with NHK.

We are beginning to see robot avatars in shops, workplaces, even schools. These machines are removing physical barriers to communication, and giving some people more confidence to speak their minds. We conduct an interview with Edward Snowden's robot avatar to give you a sense of how technology is transforming the way we interact.

Short stories written by AI software recently passed the first round of screening for a literary award in Japan. AI is also creating highly sophisticated paintings and music. Computers conquered humans at board games long ago. Will they soon overtake us at artistic endeavors, too?

"We should set a limit on healthcare coverage in Japan for the aged". That suggestion by one doctor is having widespread repercussions. He says the universal healthcare system will collapse if it continues to subsidize new, more effective but expensive drug treatments. Questions are arising about the costs of saving a life.

Rokusuke Ei died on July 7th. He is best known as the man behind the 1963 international hit, Sukiyaki. After the war, Ei became a leading figure in television, radio and print and helped pioneer a new era in Japanese popular culture. We take a look back at his career and hear from writers and celebrities who knew him well.

Weight-loss diets which limit one's intake of rice, bread and other carbohydrates are enjoying a boom. The results often come quickly. Some people take the behavior to extremes, damaging their health. We look at the risks behind this new food fad.

At hospitals and nursing homes across Japan, medical workers are joining hands with religious organizations to help terminally ill patients die peacefully. With cooperation from over 30 groups and denominations, universities are now providing training for priests and lay religious workers to be interfaith chaplains. We take a look at the practice from the frontline.

Japanese manufacturers once dazzled the world with products such as the Walkman, Nintendo and car navigation systems. But in recent years, the global success stories have been few and far between. Now, a new wave of young entrepreneurs is preparing to put the made-in-Japan tag back in the international spotlight. We take a look at what they've got planned.

As China consolidates its place as a world power, its counterfeit product industry has turned to high-quality fakes. So-called "super copies" threaten not just other nations' businesses, but Chinese ones as well. NHK goes undercover at a pirated goods market.

Relations between Japan and Russia have been getting closer. The key issue they need to resolve is the dispute over the Northern Territories - 4 islands controlled by Russia but claimed by Japan. With a peace treaty yet to be signed after World War II, what are the intentions of the countries' leaders?

Tokyo Governor, Yuriko Koike, is tackling a series of issues facing the relocation of the Tsukiji wholesale food market. The governor sees the heart of the problem as lying with the poor organizational structure of the metropolitan government. We ask the governor to explain the deeper causes of the confusion and what is being done to move forward.

The winner of the 2016 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine, Dr. Yoshinori Ohsumi discovered mechanisms underlying autophagy. He got to the root of life by untiringly peering at cells under a microscope. Often described as 'determinedly unconventional', he shares his philosophy toward science with us in studio.

Japan faces a serious labor shortage. Foreign workers have become essential to the economy. But amid harsh conditions, many workers are fleeing their employers. How should Japan expand its foreign workforce to bring benefits to both sides?