Licensing Process

  • Submit an ORDER FORM online or by email (archives@nhkint.or.jp), fax(+81-3-3481-1877) or telephone (+81-3-3481-1875).
  • We supply a list in English of relevant NHK footage, plus a quote of the costs and license fee for your requested media, territory and term. *Note: Some items in the list may not be available for licensing.
  • Order a VHS copy of clips you have selected, or view them in our screening room.
  • Order a master copy on the tape format of your choice and we check the rights to each clip.
    This takes 5 business days and you may be required to clear third party rights.
  • We exchange signed license agreements and then dispatch your master copy.
  • Notify us of the length of NHK footage you actually used and we issue an invoice for the costs
    and license fee.

Aspect ratio

NHK footage is produced in standard definition (4:3 aspect ratio) and HD (16:9).
Many items shot before December 2000 are 4:3, after which most items are HD.
Conversion from HD to 4:3 is possible.


1) HD to HD

2) HD to Letterbox

3) HD to Edge Cut

4) HD to Anamorphic (Squeeze)
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