 Media and Resources
Television
Ground wave television stations are very popular in Japan. They are analogue broadcasts and as of July 2011, analogue broadcasting will be completely abolished and changed to digital broadcasting. There is debate that this date should be postponed since all consumers will be required to purchase an appropriate TV set that supports digital broadcasting. Digital broadcasting started in December 2003, but TV sets made only for analogue broadcasts are still available at electronic stores. This sometimes causes confusion to consumers.
The number of TV channels varies depending on the region. You can normally receive two NHK (Japan Broadcasting Corporation) channels, a national broadcasting channel, five private channels and some local channels in the greater Tokyo area. Cable TV, digital satellite and high-vision broadcasting are also available nationwide. Once your television is set up, monthly fees must be paid to NHK.
Most news programs and foreign movies are broadcasted in two languages, including English, using stereo channel. Foreign language programs such as CNN and BBC are broadcasted daily via satellite and on cable TV.
Related Links
Japan National TV Station
Key Stations in TOKYO
Radio
Two NHK stations and local private stations are available in each local area. AM radio band is from 531kHz to 1602kHz and FM radio stations are assigned to frequencies 76Mhz to 90Mhz.
Related Links (J : Japanese text)
Japan National Radio Station
Key Stations in TOKYO
Other
Newspapers
There are several English newspapers available in Japan. Subscriptions are available on the internet. You may also find newspapers at major hotels or libraries.
Related Links
Japanese Newspapers in English Text
On Line Japanese News Sources in English Text
Information Magazines
Several kinds of foreign language magazines are available at the International Association in each prefecture in Japan. Publications in English, Chinese, Korean and Spanish are available. Information about local life, events, sports, culture and travel are available in these magazines. These magazines can be found at your local government office, hotels, restaurants, bars, tourist information centers, and magazine boxes on the streets of metropolitan areas.
Libraries
Large libraries with extensive book collections are located in many Japanese cities. Some libraries also offer video projection facilities and mini theaters. Libraries constitute a great source of information in foreign languages by offering books, magazines and newspapers.
Books
Large bookstores in metropolitan areas may offer up to date English newspapers, magazines and books. You can also buy foreign books on websites www.amazon.co.jp or www.amazon.com.
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