Asian dramas like
Atsu Hime

The 49th NHK Taiga drama, titled Ryoma den, is set during the Bakumatsu era and centers around Sakamoto Ryoma, a prominent figure from 1835 to 1867. Ryoma played a crucial role in the efforts to dismantle the Tokugawa Bakufu, leading to the Meiji Restoration. Additionally, he was instrumental in modernizing the Japanese navy by adopting western technology, which greatly contributed to the success of the revolution.

Yae no Sakura recounts the tale of Niijima Yae, also recognized as Yamamoto Yaeko, who was born in the Aizu Domain in the final years of the Edo era. Proficient in artillery, she played a crucial role in defending Aizu during the Boshin War, leading to her being dubbed the Bakumatsu Joan of Arc. Following the war, she wed educator Joseph Hardy Neesima and embraced Christianity, aiding Neesima in establishing Doshisha University.

In 1868, discussions between the shogunate and the new government lead to the agreement to hand over Edo Castle. Kakurai Hayato, a hesitant warrior from Owari supporting the government forces, is tasked with overseeing the smooth surrender of the castle. The only issue is a retainer named Matooya Rokubei who refuses to leave. Rokubei, a former guard of the shogun, remains seated and only moves to attend to personal needs. Due to promises made to Saigo Takamori and Katsu Kaishu, disputes within the castle are prohibited, making it impossible to remove Rokubei by force. As Kakurai spends more time with the man, he begins to develop a strange understanding and respect for Rokubei's traditional demeanor.

The 39th NHK Taiga Drama is titled Aoi Tokugawa Sandai. This series, written by James Miki, follows the story of three generations of the Tokugawa family, starting from its founder Ieyasu to Iemitsu, the third Shogun who strengthened the Tokugawa dynasty. (DramaWiki)

"The Book of Five Rings" by Miyamoto Musashi, a renowned 17th-century work on strategy and leadership, gained popularity among business executives centuries later. Musashi, orphaned at a young age, honed his martial arts skills and fought on the losing side during the Battle of Sekigahara. Evading capture, he spent years traveling and mastering the sword. His reputation attracted challengers, including Sasaki Kojiro, with whom he engaged in a legendary duel at Ganryujima.

Onodera Ichiro, a 19-year-old who grew up in an Edo household, is urgently called back to his hometown following the accidental death of his father, who served as the head attendant for feudal lord processions. Ichiro belongs to the Makisaka family from West Mino, who, despite being vassals of the shogun with 7,500 koku, hold the esteemed status of feudal lords. Despite facing potential punishment for the fire caused by neglect, Ichiro is appointed as the head attendant due to the imminent departure of the procession. With no experience in this role, Ichiro risks the future of his family line. Feeling overwhelmed and without support, Ichiro decides to rely on the ancestral records of the processions, which his father protected at all costs, as he sets out for Edo. Unbeknownst to him, the procession has been manipulated to bring down the feudal lord and potentially destroy his family.

The fourth installment of the Ooku series focuses on the time of the 3rd Shogun, Tokugawa Iemitsu, and the establishment of the Ooku. Iemitsu was raised by his nanny, O-fuku, while his younger brother Tadanaga was raised by their biological mother, who was the Shogun's wife. Throughout his upbringing, there was tension between his mother and nanny, both vying for his success as the future Shogun. The series recounts various events from Iemitsu's childhood to adulthood, detailing his journey to power.

This tale follows a talented sword fighter who faces challenges with a firm commitment to fairness and a sincere compassion for the common people. Iwane, betrothed to Okon, is tasked with protecting the Shogun's heir apparent, who is poised to become the next ruler. Iwane endeavors to shield the Shogun's son from hired killers sent by the influential advisor aiming to increase his own political influence. (NHK)

The narrative revolves around the women connected to the Tokugawa shogun lineage, with a spotlight on Isonomiya Tomoko and her strategic marriage to the 10th shogun, Tokugawa Ieharu

The 48th NHK Taiga drama, titled Tenchijin, follows the life of Naoe Kanetsugu, a dedicated samurai in Echigo Province during the 16th century. Kanetsugu received training from Uesugi Kenshin in his youth and later served Kenshin's adopted son Kagekatsu with unwavering loyalty. Known for his strong sense of justice and compassion towards the common people, Kanetsugu worked tirelessly to protect the residents of Echigo. (NHK)

Illustrates the fierce conflicts among the female figures connected to Tokugawa Tsunayoshi, the fifth shogun.

The 45th NHK Taiga Drama, titled Komyo ga Tsuji, follows the story of Kazutoyo who lived during the final years of the Sengoku period (1546-1605). He was the inaugural feudal lord of the Tosa domain located on Shikoku Island, and served under Nobunaga Oda, Hideyoshi Toyotomi, and Tokugawa Ieyasu. His wife, Chiyo (1557-1617), was renowned for her loyalty and commitment to her husband, much like Matsu was to Toshiie in Toshiie to Matsu. Chiyo was the daughter of a samurai who was in the service of the feudal lord Asai.

Based on Morimura Seiichi's book series "Assassin Contractor Series" ( ).

Based on Yasuhide Saeki's novel "Secret Life Revealed: The Enigma of Kasumi Kanzuki".

During the Bunka-Bunsei era, the culture of the townspeople thrives as the 11th Tokugawa shogun Ienari's close advisers engage in corrupt administration, leading to a decline in public morals in Edo. Discontent among samurai families and local businessmen grows due to the increasing hardships faced by ordinary town residents. In the dead of night, a whistle suddenly pierces the air. Nezumi Kozo, a heroic thief, effortlessly escapes across rooftops with a box containing 1,000 ryo, which he then scatters over a sleeping, rundown tenement house. Nezumi Kozo's true identity is that of Jirokichi, a playboy with a strong sense of justice who interferes in cases purely out of his desire to see the people of Edo happy. This narrative is inspired by the novel series "Nezumi, Edo wo Hashiru" by Akagawa Jiro.

Taking place during the early 1800s in Edo Period Japan, the people are facing hardships under the rule of the Tokugawa shogunate

Fumi marries Genzui Kusaka and remains resilient during the tumultuous final days of the Tokugawa shogunate, striving to uphold the ideals of her older brother and intellectual, Shoin Yoshida.

NHK's 55th taiga drama series focuses on the life of Sanada Yukimura, who was born into a family of modest means in Shinsu (now Nagano Prefecture). Despite facing challenges during the Sengoku period, he used his intelligence, bravery, and hard work to become a highly respected samurai. During The Siege of Osaka, Sanada Yukimura built the fortress known as "Sanada Maru" near Osaka Castle, successfully defending against the larger army of Tokugawa Ieyasu.

Denshichi from Kuromoncho works under a police officer and uses a special purple truncheon to combat crime in the alleys of Edo. This truncheon was given to him by Inspector Toyama Saemon, who oversees Kitamachi. Denshichi focuses on punishing wrongdoing rather than the wrongdoers themselves and shows compassion and kindness. Despite his cheerful demeanor, he carries the burden of accidentally causing a person's death while trying to help another. This is why he emphasizes the importance of preserving life no matter the circumstances.

Ooka Echizen was a magistrate in the Edo period who backed the Kyoho Reforms proposed by the eighth shogun, Tokugawa Yoshimune. In addition to overseeing Edo, Ooka served on the judicial council and handled local government matters, as well as the management of temples and shrines. He dispensed justice with compassion and impartiality, earning a reputation for his fair and humane rulings known as Ooka Sabaki.

Based on Morimura Seiichi's "Assassin Contractor Series," a collection of novels.

The 50th NHK Taiga drama is titled Gou, which centers around the life of Gou, who was married to the second Tokugawa shogun Hidetada. Gou was the third daughter of the daimyo Azai Nagamasa and was related to Oda Nobunaga through marriage. Her sisters were married to Toyotomi Hideyoshi and daimyo Kyogoku Takatsugu. (Tokyograph)

The air around Edo Castle holds a tense vibe. A childless general falls gravely ill during a power struggle for succession. In order to protect a man who resembles Unokichi, the shogun summons Amari Bizen no Kami and his younger brother Yukichiyo. However, an immediate attempt on Yukichiyo's life forces him to flee and go into hiding. To ensure Yukichiyo's safety, Amari Bizen switches their identities, making Yukichiyo pose as Unokichi and vice versa.

Segodon depicts the story of Takamori Saigo, a historical figure who was the eldest son of a samurai from a humble background. Throughout his life, he faced exile on two occasions and was married three times. Takamori Saigo played a significant role in the Meiji Restoration but eventually led a rebellion against the government due to his discontent with the reforms of the Meiji era. (Wikipedia)

Based on Yoshinaga Fumi's manga "Ooku" ( ).

The 44th NHK Taiga Drama revolves around the story of Minamoto no Yoshitsune, a military leader from the Minamoto clan of Japan during the late Heian and early Kamakura periods. Born in 1159, Yoshitsune was the ninth son of Minamoto no Yoshitomo, with his older brother Minamoto no Yoritomo being the founder of the Kamakura shogunate.

The 46th Historical Drama follows the life of Yamamoto Kansuke, a brilliant strategist during the Civil War era in the 16th century. Kansuke serves Takeda Shingen and strives to unite the country by assisting the ruler of Kai. Additionally, Kansuke supports Shingen's mistress, Yu, showing unwavering love to a woman who initially despises the warlord responsible for her father and family's deaths. Through Kansuke's tactics, Shingen extends his influence to the north, setting the stage for a clash with Kenshin Uesugi, the ruler of Echigo. The series depicts the struggles of individuals pursuing their aspirations in a tumultuous historical period.

Commander Norizuki Gennojo, a member of the Shogunate's army, embarks on a journey to improve his swordsmanship skills. Meanwhile, Koka Yoami, the father of his fiancée Chie, is given a special task to locate the hidden records of Naruto, containing a plot to overthrow the shogunate. Yoami disappears during this mission, never to be seen again. A decade later, Gennojo returns to Edo as a wandering monk, feeling disheartened about his abilities with the sword. He is attacked by Sekiya Magobei, but is saved by a cunning female thief named Mikaeri Otsuna. Gennojo becomes involved in the search for the secret records of Naruto, facing numerous challenges and threats along with Otsuna as they attempt to retrieve the valuable documents in Awa Tokushima.

The 43rd NHK Taiga Drama is titled Shinsengumi!. Japan was abruptly awakened from centuries of isolation by the arrival of Commodore Perry's "Black Ships." This event sparked a desire for societal change among men who looked beyond Japan. As old traditions clashed with new ideas, an era of turmoil began. In the midst of this chaos, a group known as the Shinsengumi remained loyal to the traditional shogunate system, led by the charismatic captain Kondo Isami. Upholding the samurai code of honor, Kondo and his comrades such as Hijikata Toshizo, Saito Hajime, and Okita Soji are remembered for their courageous deeds. The NHK taiga drama vividly portrays the passion and valor of these men who lived through Japan's most tumultuous period in history.

Akame Kotoji, a wandering samurai seeking revenge for his lord's stolen lances, settles in a tenement house owned by Kujiya Shouemon in Edo. Tajiri Tojiro, the chief retainer of the Mitsushima family, holds a grudge against Akame for the humiliation caused by the lance incident and sends Sudo Heihachiro to assassinate him. Akame meets Oryo, a lady-in-waiting at the Mizushima family mansion, through Shouemon, and initially rejects her request for help. However, he eventually decides to take up his sword again after being promised employment as the Mitsushima domain's fencing instructor if he defeats Akame. After a fierce battle with Sudo, Akame emerges victorious but is left with Sudo's infant son to care for. With the support of the tenement house residents and Oryo, who aspires to be a poet, Akame finds solace and begins to discover the true meaning of life as he navigates love and parenthood for the first time.

Niidekyo Jo oversees the operations at Koishikawa Yojosho, a medical facility situated in Koishikawa, Edo. He provides medical treatment to patients and shows concern for their personal issues. Known as "Red Beard," Niidekyo often clashes with the young doctor Yasumoto Noboru. As Yasumoto tends to a diverse range of patients, he gains insight into what it takes to embody the role of a true physician. This information is adapted from Yamamoto Shugoro's novel "Akahige Shinryotan."

During the Bunsei era (1818-1830), samurai families faced financial constraints. To alleviate their burden, households would hand over their finances to a traveling steward, who acted as a modern accountant and consultant. Karaki Ichibei specialized in managing the budgets of families in dire financial straits. Skilled in both the abacus and sword, Ichibei visited various homes to assist those struggling financially and facing adversity. This drama is divided into three parts: "Spring Wind" (Episodes 1-3), "Thunder God" (Episodes 4-6), and "Return Ship" (Episodes 7-9). (Jdramas Weblog)

The 40th NHK Taiga Drama revolves around the life of Hojo Tokimune, a young shikken who played a pivotal role in defending Japan from Mongolian invasion during the 13th century. This gripping tale delves into themes of betrayal, clan conflicts, and the personal turmoil faced by Hojo Tokimune. The narrative primarily focuses on the dynamics between Tokimune and his brother Tokisuke, highlighting their differing perspectives and actions in response to Kublai Khan's invasion attempts. Political tensions drive a wedge between the two siblings, leading to a dramatic exploration of loyalty and power struggles.

The remarkable narrative of chairman Park Tae-joon, who achieved the seemingly unattainable success, alongside a range of fictional tales that illustrate Korea's economic development.

The storyline follows the Shandong family through three different eras, spanning from 1923 to 1976. The protagonist shares the challenges faced by his family, initially as producers of sorghum wine and later as fighters against the Japanese invasion during World War II. In the upcoming drama adaptation, there will be a stronger focus on the female characters' viewpoints. Inspired by the book Red Sorghum ( ) written by Mo Yan ( ).

During the late Edo period, Futaboshi Hikoma, the astronomer of the Hirado domain, is known for his unique passion for the stars and the sea. When a lovely bride named Orie enters his life, Hikoma promises to cherish her forever. Sadly, Orie mysteriously disappears after only a short time of marriage. Little does Hikoma know, Orie is a skilled female ninja sent by the shogunate to investigate the Hirado domain for suspected illegal activities. The shogunate plans to punish the domain as a warning to others in the western regions. Unaware of this, Hikoma travels to Edo in search of his missing wife. Through a friend named Senemon, he meets Matsuura Seizan, the former feudal lord of Hirado, who warns Hikoma that he will harm Orie if she is found. Hikoma vows to protect his wife at all costs. To locate Orie, Hikoma takes on a role as an instructor at a local school and befriends a boy named Tarokichi. Meanwhile, strange occurrences, such as festival music playing at Seizan's residence at night, lead Hikoma and the children on a journey to uncover the truth. However, their investigation unknowingly brings them closer to the shogunate's hidden agenda.

The narrative follows the relationship between Meng Li Jun, the skilled and attractive daughter of a high-ranking official, and Huang Fu Shao Hua, the courageous and good-looking son of a general. Their fathers' political differences led to General Huang Fu forbidding his son from pursuing Meng Li Jun. Instead, the Empress Dowager's nephew from the Liu family was chosen to marry Meng Li Jun. Following General Huang Fu's defeat in a battle, the Emperor accused him of treason and ordered the entire family to be imprisoned. Huang Fu Shao Hua managed to escape, prompting Meng Li Jun, who was in love with him, to disguise herself as a man in order to seek justice for the Huang Fu family.

In their younger days, Ino, the daughter of a restaurant owner, Shika, the elegant wife of a samurai, and Chou, the owner of a sundries shop, formed a close trio in Bakurocho in Edo. Now in their thirties, each woman is feeling disheartened by their current situations, unable to confide in anyone. Suddenly, they decide to leave behind their responsibilities and families to embark on the Nuke Mairi pilgrimage to the Ise Grand Shrine, a popular journey during the Edo Period. Setting out on foot along the Tokaido, the main road connecting Kyoto and Edo, the three women aim to start afresh at Ise.

Unokichi, the descendant of the wealthiest trader in Edo, Mikuniya Tokuemon, finds himself working as a constable unexpectedly. Despite his vast riches and aloof demeanor, his coworkers are impressed by him. Unokichi, however, remains indifferent to their opinion. Lacking skill with a sword, unable to run, and fearful of the dark, he is ill-suited for the role. Nevertheless, he continues to inadvertently create misunderstandings with those around him as he collaborates with them to solve numerous cases in Edo. (Jdramas Wordpress)

A detective with a wealthy grandfather but lacking in combat skills, agility, and having a fear of darkness, makes a comeback to work on a case involving a gang of robbers.

Set in the Yoshiwara red-light district of Edo, this period drama follows four women from different professions who are proud of their community. They band together to seek retribution against men who mistreat the district's prostitutes.

This tale follows a skilled swordsman who faces challenges with a firm commitment to justice and sincere compassion for ordinary people. Despite residing in Edo for four years, Iwane continues to live in a row house next to a masterless samurai and his family, who often cause trouble for him. Commoners seek Iwane's assistance with various issues, and he happily resolves them while engaging in friendly interactions with them, including his former fiancée and a girl from the neighborhood who looks up to him. (NHK)

Rewritten text: The story revolves around the experiences of a Tzu Chi volunteer named Faisal Hu Guangzhong, who follows the Islamic faith.

The global situation is often likened to a game of poker, where Taiwan finds itself unable to secure a seat at the table. Despite not being the focal point of world affairs, Taiwan serves as a battleground for various countries. "Island Nation" is a political drama set against a backdrop of historical events, following the stories of six young individuals who become entangled in Taiwan's political landscape. As they navigate through power struggles and make difficult choices regarding faith, life, and love, they use their ideals and youth to navigate through a turbulent era, showcasing the evolution of Taiwan's democracy during the presidency of its first elected leader from 1990 to 1994.

During Tokugawa Yoshimune's rule in Edo, Sachi from Tsutomura loses her father and brother to illness and starts working at the Isuzuya kimono shop in Tenma, Osaka. The shopkeeper Jihei imparts business knowledge to the apprentices using "business traffic" as a teaching tool at night. Intrigued, Sachi pays close attention and finds herself drawn to the world of business. Two years later, the fourth-generation owner of the shop, Tokubei, marries Kikuei, the daughter of a prominent merchant, but Tokubei encounters a problem...

After learning that his birth mother is not Empress Dowager Liu E but her servant Li Lanhui, Zhao Zhen decides to marry his daughter Princess Fukang to Li Wei, the son of the Li family, as a gesture of apology for his lack of respect. In the political sphere, Zhao Zhen works to maintain a delicate balance between the conservative and progressive factions following the backlash against the Qingli reforms. Within the palace, Emperor Renzong deals with the loyal Empress Cao, the troublesome Zhang Mihan, and the gentle Lady Miao.

During the late Qing Dynasty, Empress Ci Xi was a well-known figure. Wen Xiu and Chun Er, two young individuals, sought employment in the Forbidden City. Chun Er ended up becoming a eunuch serving Empress Ci Xi. Both men found themselves entangled in the political disputes of the empress.

The plot revolves around Kwangjong, who served as the monarch during the reign of the Koryo Dynasty from 918 to 1392.