Many thanks to SWLing Post contributors Richard D’Angelo and Richard Cuff for sharing the following press release from NHK World Japan:
NHK WORLD-JAPAN Radio Begins 24-Hour Shortwave Transmission in Response to Developments in Iran
Press Release
March 1, 2026, Tokyo – In light of recent developments in the situation in Iran, NHK has begun temporary shortwave transmissions of its Japanese-language international radio service, NHK WORLD-JAPAN Radio, starting today (March 1). This measure is based on NHK’s mission as an international public service media to provide essential information to Japanese nationals residing in or traveling in the region.
Due to the attacks on Iran by the United States and Israel, internet connectivity and international telephone services in the region have become unstable, resulting in limited access to information in Japanese. In response, NHK has begun temporary shortwave transmissions of its Japanese-language international radio service, NHK WORLD-JAPAN Radio, to provide essential information to Japanese nationals staying in the area. These broadcasts started at 11:30 a.m. (Japan Standard Time) on Sunday, March 1.
NHK normally broadcasts six hours of shortwave programming per day to the Middle East. However, in view of the current situation, the broadcast schedule has been expanded to provide continuous 24-hour service. In addition to content from NHK Radio 1, the broadcasts will include timely safety and security information for those in the region.
For those in neighboring countries or other areas where internet access remains available, NHK also provides Japanese-language news on the NHK WORLD-JAPAN website, along with simultaneous and on-demand streaming of its television and radio programs. We encourage people to use these trusted sources to help ensure their safety.
NHK WORLD-JAPAN Japanese Website:
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/ja/
(This service is not accessible from within Japan and is available only overseas.)
Details of the Temporary Transmission
During the temporary transmission period, NHK will provide simultaneous broadcasts of NHK Radio 1, along with NHK WORLD-JAPAN’s own Japanese-language international news and “Overseas Safety Information,” which focuses on travel advisories issued by Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, including updates related to the situation in Iran. Because shortwave broadcasts can be transmitted directly from Japan, they are considered less susceptible to restrictions by local authorities.
The broadcast frequencies will change as needed. Information on the frequencies and other details of the temporary transmissions will be announced on the Japanese-language website of NHK WORLD-JAPAN.
NHK WORLD-JAPAN Radio
Emergency Shortwave Transmissions to the Middle East
Broadcast Schedule and Frequency List
NHK is providing 24-hour temporary shortwave transmissions of Japanese-language news and programming to the Middle East from the KDDI Yamata Transmitting Station in Koga City, Ibaraki Prefecture, and other relay sites.
(All times are shown in Japan Standard Time.)
Transmissions from the Yamata Transmitting Station
| Time (JST) | Frequency |
|---|---|
| 01:00–02:00 | 11915 kHz |
| 02:00–04:00 | 11670 kHz |
| 04:00–06:00 | 9665 kHz |
| 06:00–08:00 | 11675 kHz (regular slot) |
| 08:00–10:00 | 11660 kHz |
| 10:00–14:00 | 17560 kHz |
| 14:00–18:00 | 9700 kHz |
| 18:00–22:00 | 9740 kHz |
| 22:00–23:00 | 11685 kHz |
| 23:00–01:00 | 9450 kHz |
Transmissions from the France Relay Station
| Time (JST) | Frequency |
|---|---|
| 02:00–04:00 | 11800 kHz (regular slot) |
| 12:00–14:00 | 6150 kHz (regular slot) |
Please Note
Due to the characteristics of shortwave broadcasting, listeners may need to switch receiving frequencies every few hours.
About NHK
NHK (Japan Broadcasting Corporation) is Japan’s sole public service media organization. Funded by receiving fees from Japanese households, it has a reputation for impartial, high-quality news and programs including documentaries, children’s and educational programs, music, entertainment, culture, animation, and drama.