PROGRAMS ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE
NGN FREEVIEW SPECIALS FOR 2016
from Dec. 30 to Jan. 3
“5 to 9 – Watashi ni Koishita Obosan,” airs on Wednesday, Dec. 30, at 7:35 and 10:30 p.m.; repeats Thursday, Dec. 31, at 8:40 a.m.
Junko (Satomi Ishihara) is a part-time teacher at an English school who dreams of one day working in New York. Junko strives hard to achieve her dreams, but New York seems a far distant reality. And she hasn’t had much luck with romance for a while either.
But things suddenly start to change when one day, Junko encounters a handsome Tokyo University graduate monk Takane (Tomohisa Yamashita) at a funeral service. Junko accidentally knocks over the bowl of ashes, which falls right onto the head of Takene — probably the worst impression anyone could make. After such an incident, Junko figures she would never see him again. However, the two end up meeting again in a matchmaking session set up by Junko’s aunt.
“Sakura Sakura,” airs on Wednesday, Dec. 30, at 8:45 p.m.; repeats on Thursday, Dec. 31, at 9:50 a.m.
This is the story of a beautiful weeping cherry tree and a couple that lives in an isolated corner of Japan. The only house remaining in Aino is of the Takezaki family, consisting of Grandpa Isamu (78), Grandma Ichiko (76) and their dog.
The day the Takezakis have been waiting for all year has finally arrived. Today is the day when many visitors will come to view “Aino no Hana” (Flower of Aino), the weeping cherry tree that Grandpa Isamu planted in his youth. Just for one day of the year, their house turns into an amusement park! (A sister-state Ehime program)
“Mogitate TV,” airs on Wednesday, Dec. 30, at 9:35 p.m.; repeats on Thursday, Dec. 31, at 7:30 a.m.
“Mogitate TV,” is one of the longest-running local TV talk shows from Nankai Hoso, RNB. The show introduces a wide range of local finds and experiences, including hole-in-the-wall eateries, unique events and traditions. Experience the everyday life of people in Ehime, a sister state of Hawai‘i, through “Mogitate TV.” (A sister-state Ehime program)
“Date Special 2015,” airs in three episodes: Thursday, Dec. 31 to Saturday, Jan. 2 at 7:35 p.m.; repeats on Dec. 31 to Jan. 2 at 10 p.m. and Jan. 1 to Jan. 3 at 8:40 a.m.
Yoriko and Takumi are back!
After Yoriko (Anne) and Takumi (Hiroki Hasegawa) had their 35th date at the site of the Yokohama fireworks display, they worked on drafting a marriage contract again. At that time, they realized that they forgot to insert a section about infidelity, but concluded it would not be necessary for them. The marriage contract was finally completed; they reached an agreement to marry. Glowing with pleasure, Yoriko raises the thick marriage contract, which she is really proud of, and considers it as the “ideal model.”
One month later, Yoriko is waiting for her admirer Washio at Yokohama’s Yamashita Park. He asks if she has any regrets, and she replies that she is excited. The two of them get into his car. At the same moment, Takumi is walking in a hot spring district with Hikono, who is beautiful in a Japanese kimono. He watches her profile in fascination as she eats an ice cream. Meeting his gaze, she stares back at him shyly.
“Gurutto J:COM Tankentai,” airs on Thursday, Dec. 31, at 8:30 p.m.; repeats on Friday, Jan. 1 at 9:35 a.m.
The “J:COM expedition team” reports on landmarks, restaurants and local events. Learn about a Fukuoka you didn’t know existed in this community-based program that helps you find a new “Fukuoka!” In this episode, former Gov. George Ariyoshi visits their studio to be interviewed! (A sister-state Fukuoka program)
“Mentai Piriri,” airs on Thursday, Dec. 31, at 9:15 p.m.; repeats on Friday, Jan. 1 at 10:20 a.m.
Toshiyuki runs his own grocery store “Fukunoya” in Fukuoka. He remembers “Mentai,” a taste that brings back good memories, and tries to recreate it on his own. His family and workers are dragged into Toshiyuki’s “Mentai” making madness and all the troubles that come along with it. However the “Mentai” that he is trying to recapture, actually strengthens the bond of “Fukunoya.” (A sister-state Fukuoka program)
“Jiyu Jikan – Jinja Meguri,” airs on Thursday, Dec. 31, at 9:50 p.m.; repeats on Friday, Jan. 1, at 7:30 a.m.
Shrines in Fukuoka including Dazaifu Tenmangu are visited. “Jinja Meguri” teaches you how to visit and respect shrines properly including how to wash your hands or bow! Enjoy this informative program. (A sister-state Fukuoka program)
“Okinawa BON!!,” airs on Friday, Jan. 1, at 8:30 p.m.; repeats on Saturday, Jan. 2, at 9:30 a.m.
In conjunction with the 30th anniversary of the sister state relationship between Okinawa and Hawai‘i, “Okinawa BON!!” from RBC (Ryukyu Hoso) is featured in the Sister State TV lineup with a special introduction by Okinawa Gov. Takeshi Onaga.
“Okinawa BON!!” is a fun, family-friendly program and a great way to learn more about Okinawa’s fashionable stores, popular restaurants, and latest trends. (A sister-state Okinawa program)
“Okinawa Shunkashuto Minyo Song Festival,” airs on Friday, Jan. 1, at 9 p.m.; repeats on Saturday, Jan. 2, at 10:10 a.m.
“Minyo Kohaku Utagassen” has been held every year for 50 years. The best of Okinawa Minyo (traditional folk Music) is spotlighted in “Okinawa Shunkashuto.” Okinawa Minyo reflects Okinawa’s culture and history. Enjoy these authentic Okinawa Minyo singers’ soulful songs. (A sister-state Okinawa program)
“Must See Hiroshima – A Three-Day Trip to Miyajima,” airs on Saturday, Jan. 2, at 8:30 p.m.; repeats on Sunday, Jan. 3, at 8:40 a.m.
“This is not some rushed overnight trip! Let us take you on a leisurely journey to savor the sights and tastes of such places as Miyajima where you can indulge in the charms of the World Heritage site, one of Japan’s most famous landmarks. We visit Itsukushima Shrine and the holy mountain of Mt. Misen established by the Priest Kukai (Kobo Daishi), founder of the Shingon sect of Buddhism. Some local restaurants and specialty stores are visited along the way. (A sister-state Hiroshima program)
“Okonomiyaki Kiko,” airs on Saturday, Jan. 2, at 9:30 p.m.; repeats on Sunday, Jan. 3, at 9:35 p.m.
“Okonomiyaki Kiko” (In Search of Okonomiyaki) is a show from HTV in Hiroshima Prefecture. The soul food of Hiroshima is Okonomiyaki. There are more than 1,800 Okonomiyaki restaurants in Hiroshima Prefecture, and in this show some of the most popular ones are visited. It’s a gourmet adventure that will thrill and move you! (A sister-state Hiroshima program)
“Miracle Road to Nagaoka Fireworks with ‘Shiragiku’ and ‘Phoenix,’” airs on Sunday, Jan. 3, at 8:30 p.m.
Learn about the life of firework artist Seiji Kase, who has made fireworks to honor those who died during the bombings of World War II and to promote the rebuilding of Niigata Prefecture after a major earthquake. What was the motivation behind the creation of his pure “White Chrysanthemum” fireworks?
NGN3 New Year Traditional Programs
Dec. 31, 7:40 p.m.: “Hibari Ohako Benten Kozo (Hibari’s Favorite),” 1960 jidaigeki, 1 hour and 14 minutes.
Directed by Yasushi Sasaki. Starring Hibari Misora, Kotaro Satomi and Tomisaburo Wakayama.
Kikunosuke, a young temple servant, turns to his mother, Ofuji, for protection after being wrongly accused of murder. However Ofuji decides to turn her son into the police to collect a monetary reward. Devastated by this betrayal, Kikunosuke escapes to Edo in hopes of starting over. Once there, he takes on the name, “Benten Kozo” and soon joins a gang led by Nihon Daemon, which will later be known as the Shiranami Goninotoko.
Jan. 1, 6:20 p.m. and Jan. 2 at 11:50 a.m.: “Chushingura Dai-ichibu: Ouka no Maki”
Jan. 2, 6:30 p.m. and Jan. 3 at noon: “Chushingura Dai-nibu: Kikka no Maki”
Featuring an all-star cast, this legendary classic is a holiday tradition in Japan that the old-timers look forward to watching. Relive the emotional ties and sense of loyalty felt by Hawai‘i’s Issei and Nisei Japanese Americans, inspired by the famous story of the 47 ronin.
“Chushingura Dai-ichibu Ouka no Maki (Forty Seven Masterless Samurai, Part 1),” 1959 samurai film, 1 hour and 39 minutes.
Starring Chiezo Kataoka, Ryutaro Otomo, Chiyonosuke Azuma, Hashizo Okawa, Hibari Misora and Utaemon Ichikawa.
A famous story of 47 loyal vassals of the Ako clan taking a revenge on their enemy. A must-see all star cast version.
“Chushingura Dai-nibu Kikka no Maki (Forty Seven Maserless Samurai, Part 2),” 1959 samurai film, 1 hour and 23 minutes.
Directed by Sadatsugu Matsuda. Starring Chiezo Kataoka, Ryutaro Otomo, Chiyonosuke Azuma, Hashizo Okawa, Hibari Misora and Utaemon Ichikawa.
Conclusion of the famous 47 loyal vassals of the Ako clan.
PREMIERE SHOWINGS AND SPECIAL NEW YEAR’S PROGRAMS
“Okinawa Shunkashoto Minyo Song Festival,” airs on Friday, Jan. 2, at 9 p.m.
“Minyo Kohaku Utagassen” has been held every year for 50 years. The best of Okinawa Minyo (traditional folk Music) is spotlighted in “Okinawa Shunkashuto.” Okinawa Minyo reflects Okinawa’s culture and history. Enjoy these authentic Okinawa Minyo singers’ soulful songs. Fully subtitled in English.
“Ichioshi! Nihaku Mikka no Tabi (Must See Hiroshima),” airs on Saturday, Jan. 3, at 8:30 p.m.
This is not some rushed overnight trip! Let us take you on a leisurely journey to savor the sights and tastes of such places as Miyajima where you can indulge in the charms of the World Heritage site, one of Japan’s most famous landmarks. We visit Itsukushima Shrine and the holy mountain of Mt. Misen etablished by the Priest Kukai (Kobo Daishi), founder of the Shingon sect of Buddhism. Some local restaurants and speciality stores are visited along the way. Fully subtitled in English.
“Bringing the Legacy of Katsu Goto to Life,” airs on Saturday, Jan. 2, at 9:35 p.m.; repeats on Sunday, Jan. 3, at 6 a.m. and 3:15 p.m.
This special program is an in-depth look into an upcoming documentary exploring the life and lynching of a Hawai‘i plantation pioneer. It features interviews with the filmmakers and scenes from the film that include personal stories from his descendants, academic and historical scholars and community members. When complete, the hour-long documentary will use dramatic re-enactments, historical photos and beautiful footage filmed in Hawai‘i, Japan and other locations in the United States to bring this inspiring story of Katsu Goto to life. Fully subtitled in English.
“Atsuhime,” premieres on Sunday, Jan. 3, at 7:15 p.m.
The 47th NHK Taiga Drama “Atsuhime” (2008), which was immensely popular, comes back to NGN every Sunday night starting January 3. It is a life story of Princess Atsu, who was born in Kagoshima Prefecture, then called Satsuma, and became the wife of Tokugawa Iesada, the 13th shogun of the Tokugawa shogunate. Fully subtitled in English.
“Nagaoka Hanabi no Kiseki (Miracle Road to Nagaoka Fireworks),” airs on Sunday, Jan. 3, at 8:10 p.m.
Learn about the life of firework artist Seiji Kase, who has made fireworks to honor those who died during the bombings of World War II and to promote the rebuilding of Niigata Prefecture after a major earthquake. What was the motivation behind the creation of his pure “White Chrysanthemum” fireworks? Fully subtitled in English.
“Jinsei no Rakuen,” premieres on Friday, Jan. 8, at 9:05 p.m.
“Jinsei no Rakuen,” which was popular in 2015 on NGN, is back! What do you plan to do after retirement?
Everyone needs a purpose in life. “Jinsei no Rakuen” helps viewers find the “great lifestyle.” Many people would like to enjoy a happy life filled with satisfaction after years of hard work. Meet people who have realized their dream after retirement. You will be inspired. Fully subtitled in English.
“SPEC SP ~Sho~ (Life),” premieres on Friday, Jan. 22, at 7:35 p.m.
Misho (Unidentified Crimes Unit) receives a call about a bizarre murder case. It was a murder rampage with a machine gun on the streets in broad daylight. The only survivor is a high school girl Nozomi. Furthermore, she says the criminal who wore black from head to toe, “escaped through teleportation.” Fully subtitled in English.
NGN 3 MOVIE CHANNEL (Digital Ch. 679)
Premiere titles air on Friday. Movies are shown at various times. Check your digital on-screen guide for movie schedules, using either the GUIDE or INFO buttons (up to one week ahead). Or call NGN, Mon.-Fri. from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. at 538-1966 for inquiries or to request an e-mail of NGN 3 programming information. All movies are in Japanese language with full English subtitles.
**For this issue only, only the premiere titles movie information will be provided.
PREMIERE TITLES OF THE MONTH
COMMUNITY FAVORITE
Jan. 1: “Tsuri Baka Nisshi 7 (Free and Easy 7),” 1994 comedy drama, 1 hour and 37 minutes.
Directed by Seiji Izumi. Starring Toshiyuki Nishida and Rentaro Mikuni.
Seventh installment of the series of “Tsuribaka Nisshi,” which chronicles the adventures of Hama-chan and also his boss Su-san, both fishing fanatics. On a fishing trip, Hama-chan and Su-san meet a beautiful lady and the three have a great time. Later, Su-san gets a toothache, and his dentist turns out to be the woman, whom he secretly takes fishing, lying to Hama-chan in the process. When the two men later run into one another, their friendship is threatened.
Jan. 8: “Shura no Densetsu (A Legend of Turmoil),” 1992 action film, 1 hour and 50 minutes.
Directed by Seiji Izumi. Starring Akira Kobayashi and Takanori Jinnai.
A story about the development of a bright and strong yakuza. Otaki is an old-fashioned respectful yakuza who tries to protect his small yakuza family. When his boss gets shot, he decides to go after the plotters.
Jan. 15: “Aa Yokaren (Young Eagles of the Kamikaze),” 1968 drama, 1 hour and 50 minutes.
Directed by Shinji Murayama. Starring Koji Tsuruta and Shinichi Chiba.
The film is dedicated to the souls of flight school graduates killed in WWII. Young boys dream about becoming pilots and apply to flight schools. However, they were forced to become suicide bombers and give their lives for their homeland.
Jan. 22: “Zoku Ooku Maruhi Monogatari (Shogun and His Mistress 2),” 1967 jidaigeki, 1 hour and 35 minutes.
Directed by Sadao Nakajima. Starring Tomoko Ogawa and Eijiro Tono.
In the year 1786, Shogun Ieharu Tokugawa selected beautiful Ochisa to be his concubine. It causes other concubines to become very jealous and mean. When the Shogun passes away, his concubines are forced to become nuns, which they are not happy to be.
MOVIE OF THE MONTH
Jan. 29: “Little Forest – Natsu/Aki (Little Forest Summer/Autumn),” 2014 drama, 1 hour and 51 minutes.
Starring Ai Hashimoto and Takahiro Miura.
Ichiko lived in a big city. She departs city life to return to her small hometown in the Tohoku region. She lives alone in her family home in the fictional village of Komori (which literally translates as “Little Forest”). She is self-sufficient. Ichiko gains energy living among nature and eating foods she makes from seasonal ingredients. This gentle drama about going back to basics is filled with imagery of nature, as a young woman returns to her ancestral roots.
