Japan’s Youth Still Swayed by the Grand New Year’s Eve Tradition
As the year draws to a close, Japan’s iconic “NHK Kohaku Uta Gassen” (Red and White Song Battle) prepares to light up screens, a cultural touchstone often seen as the nation’s grand finale. Despite a global trend of declining television viewership among younger generations, a recent survey by Wakamono Research offers a surprising insight: a significant portion of Japan’s high school students still plan to tune in.
The Unexpected Verdict: 58.8% of High Schoolers Are Watching
In a nationwide poll conducted between November 25 and December 5, 2025, among 526 current high school students, Wakamono Research discovered that 58.8% intend to watch this year’s Kohaku Uta Gassen. This majority challenges the notion that the younger demographic has entirely abandoned traditional broadcast events, suggesting a nuanced relationship with media consumption.
Why the Red and White Still Reigns: Tradition, Music, and “Oshi” Culture
The reasons behind this continued engagement are multifaceted. Many students cited the program as an annual family tradition, a comforting ritual marking the year’s end. Comments like, “I watch it every year! It feels like the end of the year,” and “My family watches it together every year” highlight its role as a shared experience.
Beyond tradition, a love for music plays a crucial role. Students expressed a general enjoyment of music programs, suggesting that Kohaku’s format as a grand musical showcase resonates deeply. The recent shift in Kohaku’s lineup, featuring popular J-Pop and K-Pop artists, has also likely made the show more appealing to a younger audience. This strategic move ensures that the program remains relevant to the evolving tastes of Japan’s youth.
Perhaps the most compelling draw, however, is the presence of “oshi”—a Japanese term for one’s favorite idol or artist. For many high schoolers, Kohaku becomes an essential viewing event if their beloved artists are performing. Names like Mrs. GREEN APPLE, aespa, BE:FIRST, FRUITS ZIPPER, HANA, ILLIT, Chanmina, M!LK, RADWIMPS, and Sakanaction were frequently mentioned as reasons to watch. The excitement peaks with the anticipated appearances of groups like King & Prince and Number_i. There’s a palpable sense of hope among fans, with some dreaming of a one-night-only reunion of the original five King & Prince members to perform their debut single, “Cinderella Girl.” As one high schooler put it, “Because King & Prince and Number_i are appearing, I’m hoping for a collaboration!”
Some students also indicated that a lack of other appealing TV options led them to choose Kohaku, reflecting a broader landscape of fragmented entertainment consumption.
The Other Side: Why Some High Schoolers Opt Out
Conversely, 41.2% of high school students stated they would not watch Kohaku. The primary reason was the absence of their “oshi” or artists they were interested in. “My favorite artist isn’t performing,” was a common sentiment, underscoring the power of individual artist appeal in driving viewership.
Other reasons included a perception that the show is “uninteresting” or “boring,” with criticisms often directed at the inclusion of older enka singers or a lack of familiarity with some of the performing groups. The program’s length was also a deterrent for some. Practical constraints also play a part: some students work part-time jobs on New Year’s Eve, while others are busy with受験 (juken – entrance exam preparations) and prioritize sleep or studying.
The Most Desired Artists: A Glimpse into Youth Fandom
Wakamono Research also asked students which artists would make them watch Kohaku if they were to perform. The resulting ranking offers a clear picture of current youth music trends:
- Mrs. GREEN APPLE
- TWICE
- Arashi
- HANA
- Kenshi Yonezu
- Snow Man
- CUTIE STREET
- King & Prince
- back number
- Ado / Fujii Kaze (Tied)
Mrs. GREEN APPLE topped the list, with many students citing their love for the band and their music. Notably, Mrs. GREEN APPLE, HANA, King & Prince, and back number are indeed scheduled to perform this year, much to the delight of their fans. The strong showing of TWICE, especially among female students, reflects their enduring popularity and the significance of their 10th debut anniversary. The inclusion of Arashi, despite their announced hiatus from group activities in May 2026, reveals a deep desire among fans to see the iconic group perform one last time on the Kohaku stage. Kenshi Yonezu’s appearance on the list suggests an intriguing appeal for artists who rarely make media appearances, hinting at the special allure of Kohaku as a platform.
The Future of Fandom and Entertainment
This survey illuminates the evolving landscape of entertainment consumption among Japanese high schoolers. While traditional events like Kohaku Uta Gassen retain their appeal, particularly when intertwined with family traditions and the powerful draw of “oshi” culture, the influence of individual artists and personal preferences is undeniable. The findings underscore that even in an era of diverse digital entertainment, the collective experience of watching a major televised event, especially one featuring beloved idols, continues to hold a special place. For those looking to understand the pulse of Japanese youth culture and the future of Kawaii culture abroad, recognizing the power of fandom and the strategic adaptation of traditional platforms will be key. The full details of this survey are available on the Wakamono Research website: https://wakamono-research.co.jp/media/kohaku-music-show-japanese-teens/
