: Often recommended for fans of Terrace House , this show features contestants over 35 and is noted for its wholesome, sustainable view of romance.

: A recent "desk-flip" on the dating genre that focuses on yanki (delinquent youth) culture, offering more raw emotion than the typically polite Japanese reality TV.

Japanese variety shows are increasingly available with international subtitles, moving beyond wacky game shows into more grounded formats.

: The thriller that became a global phenomenon continues its high-stakes survival games, with Season 3 premiering in late 2025.

* NHK's 100th Anniversary. NHK celebrated its 100th anniversary with Unbound, Anpan, and The Ghost Writer's Wife. ( Credit: NHK) . The Blossom Review The Most Unique J-Drama of 2026 | Sounds of Winter Review

: An anticipated legal thriller based on Shohei Manabe’s manga, following a morally ambiguous lawyer who takes on dangerous cases.

: A historical romance set in 1936 that won multiple awards for its blend of traditional Japanese and Western lifestyle elements. Popular Variety & Reality TV

: Japan's first same-sex dating reality show has been hailed as a trailblazer for its realistic and respectful tone.