Japanet Broadcasting launched its new free BS broadcasting station, BS10, on January 10 at 7 PM, integrating the nationwide free BS station BSJapanext and the premium film channel BS10 Star Channel. With this union, viewers previously unable to access BSJapanext will now have the opportunity to tune in to various exciting shows across the country.
To celebrate the occasion, Japanet hosted a special four-hour live broadcast titled "Nice to Meet You, BS10! Launch Commemorative Special" on the day of the launch. Throughout January, the channel will also feature themed programming as part of its "Launch 10 Days" initiative, showcasing special segments dedicated to different categories.
During the launch event, notable guests introduced various shows, including actor Hiroshi Tachi's segment "Hiroshi Tachi Cinema Lounge," and showcased programming dedicated to movies, golf, basketball, and Mahjong. Excitingly, it was also announced at the conference about the upcoming Mahjong tournament titled the "Nissin Food Presents Mahjong All-Star BS10 Championship," boasting a total prize pool of 10 million yen and attracting attention due to its grand prize of 5 million yen, setting records for personal title matches within the country's Mahjong scene.
Professional Mahjong player and model Saki Okada humorously expressed her eagerness for the championship: "I want to bring home the board (with the prize amount on it)!" sparking laughter among those present.
The launch event saw participation from Japanet Holdings’ President Akihito Takada, alongside various public figures, including comedy trio "Panther" member Takahiro Ogata, former badminton player Reiko Shiota, professional golfers Naomichi Ozaki and Keiichiro Fukuhori, and Mahjong professionals Masu Sarukawa and Toshito Sasaki.
Overall, the debut of BS10 signifies not only a consolidation of broadcasting resources but also the promise of fresh entertainment for viewers across Japan.
The melding of different entertainment forms—from movies to competitive games—illustrates Japanet Broadcasting's ambition to cater to diverse audience interests, ensuring engaging content remains at the forefront of its programming strategy.