Good Morning NHK

A good friend, during his first months in Japan, did mostly two things: buy idol dvds and watch NHK Education.

Indeed, of all j-popculture, I will probably miss morning kids educational stuff most. Especially Shaki-n, a rare gift to Japanese television - a show that is not only smart, heartwarming and genuinely funny, but has the unique quality of making you want to wake you up at 7 am to watch it. And it wakes you up too, as it consists of colorful short clips, songs and quizzes that mysteriously make your eyes go, well, shakiiiiin.

But there are other good ones too. Haven't really watched it much until now, but Masaki sent me this clip from "Miitsuketa" - a show hosted by Sabo, the cactus, Kosshi, the chair, and Su-chan, the little girl. While Japanese speakers will find the clip amusing for numerous bad, yet awesome puns and word jokes, general audience will, hopefully, enjoy the catchy tune, and find fun in some slightly disturbing moments.



Miitsuketa means "Found it!", as this is the show that let's us find out different things about the world. In an anniversary show, the three hosts sing a Happy Birthday song, where they sum up the passing year.

"We found so many things this year. Let's hope we find a lot next year as well!", sing Suichan and the Chair. Enter Sabo the Cactus.

"That's all dandy, but I can't find the toiler paper in the bathroom".

That's a cue for Sui to find him a roll, while saying "Nin nin nin", which is what all ninjas say when looking for toilet paper.

"Found it (mitsuketa), Mr. Cactus".

Everyone is happy and the scene climaxes in warm goodbyes and thankyous. That is until Sabo realizes the bathroom door is shut.

"I'm gonna wet myself", sings Sabo, rather sadly, while Sui encourages him not to give up, and to "fight!"



My last remark is about warm comments under the video on youtube. One of them compliments Mr. Cactus on his handsome looks. Another points out that toilet paper will be ripped to shreds if used on Sabo's cactus skin. No hate, no bitching. Pure love.