NHK is dedicating a prime-time special to showcase how Japanese music resonates worldwide. "World-Resonating J-POP 2026 ~ MUSIC AWARDS JAPAN & Zipangu Special" airs June 4 at 10 p.m. on NHK General TV, with a repeat broadcast on June 8.

The program pulls from two major events. First, it revisits standout moments from last year's MUSIC AWARDS JAPAN, Japan's largest music awards show, featuring performances by ちゃんみな, 藤井風, and Mrs. GREEN APPLE. This year's nominees and key categories will also be previewed ahead of the ceremony.

The special goes beyond awards show coverage by interviewing international music industry figures about how Japanese music is being received globally. Viewers will hear from professionals and fans about the current state of J-Pop on the world stage.

The program's centerpiece is the Zipangu festival, a Japanese artists-only music event held in America. Exclusive live footage and interviews with performers and local fans provide insight into how American audiences are connecting with Japanese music.

HANA gets particular attention as the focus follows the group's U.S. experience during their first American performance at Zipangu. The special captures behind-the-scenes moments from their time stateside, including meetings with artists the members admire.

Hosting duties fall to 中島健人 (Kento Nakajima) and 畑芽育 (Megai Hata), who serve as ambassadors for MUSIC AWARDS JAPAN 2026. Studio guests include blogger 徳力基彦 and TV personality 森香澄, while VTR appearances come from 新しい学校のリーダーズ, Ado, ちゃんみな, HANA, and MAN WITH A MISSION.

The special reflects growing international interest in Japanese music and the emerging infrastructure supporting artists' global expansion. By combining awards coverage with festival footage and artist interviews, NHK aims to paint a comprehensive picture of J-Pop's place in the world music landscape.