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Japan's only public English language channel began airing Tuesday on Maryland Public Television, featuring international news from Tokyo and lifestyle programs on Japanese society, politics, culture and food.
NHK World TV features original programming from NHK, Japan Broadcasting Corp. MPT, based in Owings Mills, covers the state and parts of surrounding states and Washington.
Programs will include hourly live international news from Tokyo and news bureaus around the globe, including Washington; "Grand Sumo Highlights" featuring highlights of sumo tournaments; "Dining with the Chef," a cooking show; and Journeys in Japan, which highlights cultures throughout Japan.
"For people across Maryland, Washington D.C., and adjoining states with an interest in international news, as well as Japanese and Asian culture, NHK WORLD TV's programs and series provide a fresh new look and perspective," said Larry D. Unger, MPT's president and CEO, in a statement.
NHK WORLD TV reaches more than 290 million households in 150 countries and regions through local satellite and cable TV providers. In the Baltimore area, viewers can watch on Comcast's channel 268 or Verizon FIOS's channel 480 or over the air on channel 67.4. NHK World also will air in New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Philadelphia, San Francisco, Seattle and Charlotte.
"MPT's mission is to enrich lives and strengthen communities through the power of media, and the addition of NHK WORLD TV aligns well with the station's commitment to viewers," said Yoshihiko Shimizu, president and CEO of NHK subsidiary Japan International Broadcasting Inc., in Tuesday's announcement.