PICK OF THE DAY

Japan’s Northern Wilderness

6.25PM, BBC2

Television’s latest golden couple, naturalist Steve Backshall and Olympic rower Helen Glover, embark on the adventure of a lifetime, travelling more than 600 miles through the stunning northern highlands of Japan. The fact that Steve speaks Japanese proves extremely useful as he and his wife discover ancient pilgrimage routes and unique wildlife in Tohoku. The region is known for its volcanoes and hot water springs, which are famously enjoyed by Japanese macaques (right), also known as snow monkeys.

Doctor Who

7.20PM, BBC1

This week, just as Bill and her friends are despairing of finding somewhere habitable they can afford to rent, David Suchet pops up, as a landlord with a remarkably big and cheap house they can move into straight away. Surely there must be a catch? Well, yes – but thank goodness the Doctor is helping Bill to move in.

Casualty

8.05PM, BBC1

In the wake of recent shocking events, Ethan struggles to cope with the enormity of his loss, while Connie reluctantly agrees to him returning to work, and his colleagues worry that he’s come back too soon. But then, a startling revelation adds yet another emotion to the already potent mix tormenting Ethan – guilt.

Michael McIntyre: Happy & Glorious

9PM, BBC1

Politics, terrorism, missile testing… Sometimes, we all need to bury our heads in the sand and pretend that the big bad world isn’t happening. Step forward Michael McIntyre with his latest show, recorded at the O2 and featuring his hilarious observations of everyday life.