On October 14, NHK announced that Haruka Ayase, Hiroiki Ariyoshi, Mio Imada , and announcer Naoko Suzuki will serve as hosts for the 76th NHK Kohaku Uta Gassen, which will be held on New Year's Eve at the NHK Hall (Shibuya-ku, Tokyo).
This will be Ayase's fourth time hosting the Kohaku Uta Gassen, following her appearances in 2013, 2015, and 2019, Ariyoshi's third time in a row, following appearances in 2023 and 2024, Imada's first time, and Suzuki's second time in a row, following her appearance in 2024.
Imada commented, "Following on from the TV drama series ' Anpan' earlier this year, I am truly honored to have this opportunity to take part in this memorable year marking the 100th anniversary of the show's broadcast. Every year, I watch the Kohaku Uta Gassen on TV with my family and friends while looking back on the year, and I have received so much musical energy from the artists' amazing performances. I am excited to be able to enjoy this time with viewers all over the country this year!" She continued enthusiastically, "Together with Hiroiki Ariyoshi and Haruka Ayase, I will do my best to ensure that 2025 is a wonderful year for everyone, and that we can welcome 2026 on a bright note."
Koike Akihisa, head of the 76th NHK Kohaku Uta Gassen executive headquarters, explained the reason for choosing Ayase, Ariyoshi, and Imada, saying, "They are the three most beloved by Japanese living rooms right now. Ayase, who has created some of the most moving scenes at past Kouhaku Uta Gassen shows, Ariyoshi, who is a mature man who can create a warm atmosphere with just a casual comment, and Imada, who brings energy to viewers with her fresh smile."
"And we will also be joined by announcer Suzuki Naoko, who is a bit of a crybaby. I wonder what kind of atmosphere will be created at NHK Hall on New Year's Eve...I can't wait. New Year's Eve marks the end of the year. Why not connect with your loved ones at the Kohaku Uta Gassen? All of our staff are making preparations to deliver the best Kohaku yet. Please look forward to it!"
Last year's 75th NHK Kohaku Uta Gassen was hosted by Ariyoshi, Kanna Hashimoto, Sairi Ito, and announcer Suzuki.
It was also announced that the theme of the 76th NHK Kohaku Uta Gassen will be "Connecting, Connecting, New Year's Eve." The station explained, "This year's Kouhaku marks a milestone as we conclude 100 years of broadcasting. We hope that wonderful music will continue to connect us for the next 100 years... We have incorporated this wish into the theme." The show will air from 7:20 PM to 11:45 PM on December 31st (with some news interruptions).
