NHK Culture Matsumoto iCITY21 Launches Weather Literacy Course: Learn to Read the Sky, Enhance Daily Life, and Save Lives

In recent years, natural disasters caused by heavy rain, strong winds, typhoons, and heavy snow have been increasing across Japan. Meteorological disasters, primarily triggered by such weather phenomena, are having a significant impact on our daily lives.

Understanding daily weather conditions is an essential preparation for a safe and secure lifestyle.

In Nagano Prefecture, surrounded by majestic mountains, weather patterns and climatic characteristics vary greatly by region. This course will also clearly explain the unique climate of mountainous areas and associated disaster risks.

These special lectures will feature meteorologists who are active on NHK programs and popular local broadcasts.

This is a rare opportunity to directly learn from well-known TV weather presenters:

- How to interpret weather forecasts

- How to read changes in the sky

- Disaster preparedness strategies

- Practical meteorological knowledge for everyday life

Join us for an engaging and informative experience, and learn how to apply weather insights to your daily routine.

① Yuno Sakashita's Weather Classroom: The Life of a Weather Broadcaster

(Date: Sunday, July 26, 2026, 11:00–12:30)

Instructor: Yuno Sakashita, Meteorologist and Disaster Prevention Specialist

Class details and registration: https://www.nhk-cul.co.jp/programs/program_1334389.html

Yuno Sakashita, known for her appearances on Zukadase TV and SBC News Wide, will share insights into her daily work. Discover how the weather forecasts you watch every day are created, behind-the-scenes stories from broadcasting, and practical tips for interpreting and using weather forecasts in daily life. This session will transform the way you view weather reports.

② Monoto Seizan's Quiz-Based Basic Weather Course

(Date: Sunday, August 23, 2026, 11:00–12:30)

Instructor: Monoto Seizan, Meteorological Anchor for NHK's 'Ohayou Nippon'

Class details and registration: https://www.nhk-cul.co.jp/programs/program_1336289.html

Monoto Seizan, the meteorological anchor for NHK's 'Ohayou Nippon', will lead this interactive session. Learn the fundamentals of weather in a fun and engaging way through a quiz format suitable for children and adults alike.

Key highlights of the lecture:

1. Behind the scenes of popular TV programs

Gain insight into the production side of shows like 'Ohayou Nippon' and discover the joys of being a meteorologist through daily work experiences.

2. Learn weather knowledge through quizzes

Enjoyable quiz-based learning that makes weather science accessible and practical for everyday life.

③ Understanding Nagano's Climate and Life-Saving Weather Forecast Applications

(Date: Saturday, September 12, 2026, 15:30–17:00)

Instructor: Ryuichi Yonetsu, Meteorologist and Disaster Prevention Specialist

Class details and registration: https://www.nhk-cul.co.jp/programs/program_1334390.html

Ryuichi Yonetsu, known for his appearances on TV Yamanashi's 'Sugoroku', will present this session. Unlike earthquakes, weather forecasts provide disaster information in advance—making awareness a critical factor in protecting lives and property.

This lecture will explain regional climate characteristics specific to Nagano Prefecture. It will also provide clear guidance on how to interpret weather forecasts during disasters and daily life, including practical tools that can help you and your family stay safe from typhoons, heavy rain, and heavy snow.

① Yuno Sakashita's Weather Classroom: The Life of a Weather Broadcaster

Instructor: Yuno Sakashita, Meteorologist and Disaster Prevention Specialist

Format: In-person class

Date and Time: July 26, 2026 (Sun), 11:00–12:30

Fee: Members: ¥5,148 (tax included) General (no membership required): ¥5,720 (tax included)

Organizer: NHK Culture Center Matsumoto iCITY21

Details: https://www.nhk-cul.co.jp/programs/program_1334389.html

② Monoto Seizan's Quiz-Based Basic Weather Course

Instructor: Monoto Seizan, Meteorological Anchor for NHK's 'Ohayou Nippon'

Format: In-person class

Date and Time: August 23, 2026 (Sun), 11:00–12:30

Fee: Members: ¥5,720 (tax included) General (no membership required): ¥6,864 (tax included)

Organizer: NHK Culture Center Matsumoto iCITY21

Details: https://www.nhk-cul.co.jp/programs/program_1336289.html

③ Understanding Nagano's Climate and Life-Saving Weather Forecast Applications

Instructor: Ryuichi Yonetsu, Meteorologist and Disaster Prevention Specialist

Format: In-person class

Date and Time: September 12, 2026 (Sat), 15:30–17:00

Fee: Members: ¥5,148 (tax included) General (no membership required): ¥5,720 (tax included)

Organizer: NHK Culture Center Matsumoto iCITY21

Details: https://www.nhk-cul.co.jp/programs/program_1334390.html