Yokohama

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Media and Broadcasting

Overview of local TV, radio, and online media options in Yokohama for staying informed.

Sections

1. Types of Local Media in Yokohama

Television

  • Terrestrial TV: Yokohama residents have access to Japan's major national TV networks, which include:

    • NHK (Nippon Hลsล Kyลkai): Japan's public broadcaster, offering both general (NHK General) and educational (NHK Educational) channels.
    • Commercial Networks: These include Nippon TV (NTV), TV Asahi, TBS, Fuji TV, and TV Tokyo. These channels broadcast a mix of news, entertainment, dramas, and variety shows.
    • Local TV: Yokohama is part of the Kanagawa Prefecture, and the local station is tvk (Television Kanagawa). tvk focuses on regional news, cultural programs, and local events.

  • Satellite and Cable TV: For more diverse content, including international channels, you can subscribe to satellite or cable services such as:

    • SkyPerfecTV! (ใ‚นใ‚ซใƒ‘ใƒผ!): Offers a wide range of channels, including sports, movies, and foreign-language programming.
    • J:COM: A popular cable provider in Yokohama that bundles TV, internet, and phone services.

Radio

  • Yokohama has a rich radio culture, with both national and local stations available:
    • NHK Radio: Public radio stations include NHK Radio 1 (news and talk) and NHK Radio 2 (educational and cultural programming).
    • Local Radio Stations:
      • FM Yokohama (84.7 MHz): A popular station offering music, local news, and lifestyle programs tailored to Yokohama and Kanagawa residents.
      • Radio Nippon (AM 1422 kHz): Based in Yokohama, this station provides a mix of talk shows, sports coverage, and cultural content.
    • Community Radio: Smaller stations like Yokohama Community Broadcasting focus on hyper-local content, including multilingual programs for foreign residents.

Newspapers

  • National Newspapers: Widely available in Yokohama, these include:
    • Yomiuri Shimbun, Asahi Shimbun, Mainichi Shimbun, and Nikkei (focused on business news).
  • Local Newspapers:
    • Kanagawa Shimbun: The primary regional newspaper, covering Yokohama and Kanagawa-specific news, events, and cultural topics.
  • English-Language Newspapers:
    • The Japan Times, The Mainichi (English edition), and The Asahi Shimbun (English edition) are available for English-speaking residents.

Online Media

  • Many traditional media outlets have robust online platforms, offering news and streaming services. Popular apps like Yahoo! Japan News and LINE News are widely used for quick updates.
  • For English-speaking residents, websites like Japan Today and NHK World provide news in English.

2. Broadcasting Laws and Language Considerations

Broadcasting Laws

  • NHK Subscription Fee: By law, anyone with a TV capable of receiving NHK broadcasts is required to pay a subscription fee. This fee supports NHK's operations as a public broadcaster. The cost depends on whether you use terrestrial-only or satellite services (see costs below).
  • Content Regulations: Japanese broadcasting is regulated by the Broadcast Act, which ensures that content is fair, impartial, and culturally appropriate. Offensive or politically biased content is strictly monitored.

Language Considerations

  • Most TV and radio programs are in Japanese. However:
    • NHK offers some programs with English subtitles or dubbing, especially on its NHK World channel.
    • Satellite and cable services often include foreign-language channels (e.g., CNN, BBC, and Chinese or Korean channels).
    • Streaming platforms like Netflix and Amazon Prime Japan offer multilingual options, including Japanese content with English subtitles.

3. Subscription Costs for TV/Radio Services

NHK Subscription Fees (as of 2023):

  • Terrestrial Plan: ยฅ1,225/month (ยฅ14,650/year) if paid monthly.
  • Satellite Plan: ยฅ2,170/month (ยฅ26,040/year) if paid monthly.
  • Discounts are available for advance payments (e.g., 6 months or 1 year upfront).

Cable and Satellite TV Costs:

  • SkyPerfecTV!: Basic packages start at around ยฅ3,000/month, with additional fees for premium channels.
  • J:COM: Bundled plans (TV + internet + phone) start at approximately ยฅ5,000โ€“ยฅ8,000/month, depending on the services selected.

Radio:

  • Most radio services are free to access. However, some premium online radio platforms or apps may require a subscription.

4. Procedure for Accessing Media Services

Television

  1. NHK Subscription:
    • NHK representatives may visit your home to set up a subscription if you own a TV.
    • Alternatively, you can register online via the NHK website or call their customer service.
  2. Cable/Satellite TV:
    • Contact providers like J:COM or SkyPerfecTV! to set up an account. Installation may require a technician visit.
    • Youโ€™ll need proof of residence (e.g., your residence card) and a Japanese bank account or credit card for payment.

Radio

  • Simply tune in to the desired frequency using a radio device or access stations online via their websites or apps.

Newspapers

  • Subscriptions can be arranged online or through local distributors. Many newspapers offer digital editions, which are convenient for non-Japanese speakers.

5. Local Media-Related Sites and Institutions in Yokohama

  1. tvk (Television Kanagawa) Headquarters:

    • Location: Yokohama Media Business Center, Minato Mirai area.
    • Visitors can sometimes attend live recordings or events hosted by tvk.

  2. FM Yokohama Studio:

    • Location: Yokohama Landmark Tower.
    • Occasionally hosts public events or live broadcasts.

  3. NHK Yokohama Broadcasting Station:

    • Location: Near Yokohama Station.
    • Offers tours and exhibitions about NHKโ€™s history and broadcasting technology.

  4. Yokohama Media and Communications Center:

    • A hub for media-related events, workshops, and exhibitions.

6. Practical Tips and Cultural Nuances

  • Language Barrier: If youโ€™re not fluent in Japanese, consider subscribing to services like NHK World or international streaming platforms for English-language content.
  • Cultural Sensitivity: Japanese media often reflects the countryโ€™s cultural values, such as respect for authority, harmony, and community. Be mindful of these themes when consuming or discussing local media.
  • Community Engagement: Local radio stations and newspapers are excellent resources for learning about Yokohamaโ€™s events, festivals, and community initiatives.
  • Streaming Services: Many residents supplement traditional media with streaming platforms like Hulu Japan, Netflix, or YouTube, which offer a mix of Japanese and international content.

By understanding the media landscape in Yokohama, you can stay informed, entertained, and connected to both local and global communities. Let me know if youโ€™d like further assistance with any specific aspect!