Asian dramas like
Designer 2005

A tale follows Maeda Taison, a troublemaker in high school with aspirations of becoming a global boxing champion. The story is based on the manga series "Rokudenashi Blues" by Morita Masanori. (Tokyograph)

The plot follows a man who suffers from amnesia after a car crash and finds himself in the company of the female wrestlers of El Palacio. Struggling to recover his memories, he eventually settles in with the group and takes on the role of their referee. This narrative is based on the manga "Koko ga Uwasa no El Palacio" by author Aoyagi Takao.

Each individual carries a history with them. Some individuals hold onto the past fondly, while others prefer to keep it at a distance. Chai Man Sek, Chai Man Kei, and Bin Wai Ching shared a close friendship during their childhood. Both boys harbored feelings for Wai Ching simultaneously. Three decades ago, on the evening of the Mid-Autumn Festival, Man Sek, Man Kei, and Wai Ching engaged in regrettable actions while under the influence of alcohol. Following the revelation of their actions, the trio each went their separate ways, leaving the village behind. Man Sek even relocated to Australia in an attempt to break free from the haunting memories. However, thirty years later, under certain circumstances, they reunite and are confronted with the past incident once more.

Matoba Yosuke, a former office worker, finds himself unemployed while his wife, Matoba Hikaru, a retired dancer, decides to pursue her passion amidst a family crisis. Left to care for their son, Yosuke reconnects with Chikako, an ex-lover turned successful career woman, who steps in to help. As Yosuke navigates his new reality and Chikako explores a relationship with a younger man, Jun Kikuta, the question remains: will their old flame reignite in their changed circumstances?

Based on the manga series "Konbini Maria" created by Mitsuru Miura.

Satomi Yuu is employed as a caregiver for individuals in their homes, where her guiding principle for both the families and patients is "Donmai" (don't mind). This motto is inspired by the manga series "Donmai!" created by Yajima Masao and illustrated by Wakasa Takeshi.

Kei is a young screenwriter who has not achieved much success in her career. One day, she is surprised to find a visitor at her apartment door - a little girl named Niko, who is revealed to be the secret child of the famous actress Mifuyu Shibano. Niko is sent to Kei because she is the only person aware of this secret, having worked for Mifuyu in the past before she became well-known. Kei notices that Niko is very reserved, so she decides to start an 'exchange diary' as a way to communicate with her.

In Iryu 2, Asada Ryutaro faces new challenges within Japan's healthcare system. The government is implementing laws to address the rising medical costs, forcing hospitals to operate independently or risk bankruptcy. Hospital mergers and acquisitions are becoming common, leading to closures of obstetrics and pediatrics departments. This shortage of doctors is closely linked to the management issues hospitals are facing. Hospitals now must operate like businesses to avoid financial collapse.

Ann, a 12-year-old girl, moved in with her maternal grandparents following her parents' divorce. She found solace in the companions she met in the unfamiliar countryside. Tragically, her mother passed away, but with the help of her friends, Ann was able to find joy again. However, her budding romance with one of her friends ended in heartbreak. The story is adapted from the manga series "Sand Chronicles" by Ashihara Hinako.

Walkin' Butterfly explores the uncertainties and discomfort that many young people face as they transition into adulthood. Michiko, the protagonist, stands out due to her height, which is different from that of most Japanese women, and her job as a part-time pizza delivery driver, typically seen as a male-dominated role. It is understandable that she grapples with feelings of insecurity about her identity as a woman and her societal position.

In the adaptation from the manga series "Jotei Kaoruko" by Kurashina Ryo and illustrated by Wake Issaku, Kiritani portrays Saya, a young woman who becomes a Ginza hostess after graduating from high school. Saya is on a quest to find her long-lost mother, whom she has never known, while facing off against Miki, another young hostess who is also searching for her father.

Tomura Toshiko (Minami) undergoes remarkable transformations based on her desires. Moving from an actress to a designer, and then to a novelist, she seems to reinvent herself like a caterpillar shedding its skin. However, these talents are not inherently hers, but rather skillfully imitated from those around her. Is she a prodigy crafted by a higher power, or simply a masterful mimic? Described as a femme fatale, she attracts the attention of many men. The duality of her love for others and her constantly evolving self represents a human flaw that must continue to manifest in a world where good and evil are intricately intertwined. -- DramaWiki (Jdrama Weblog)

Have you heard about the Labor Standards Inspectors? These government officials were established to ensure workplace safety for the 52 million employed individuals nationwide. Danda Rin is a prime example of a dedicated and strict inspector who strictly enforces regulations. When she was transferred to a new office, rumors of her causing her previous boss to go bald followed her. Unlike her relaxed male colleagues, Danda Rin is known for her no-nonsense approach in addressing issues such as unpaid overtime, ineffective managers, and power harassment.

Shizuru is an enigmatic woman whose sole focus is on food. Individuals with different concerns encounter Shizuru, and by sharing a meal together, their problems are resolved, despite her not offering any guidance.

Masayoshi Tsuruda, also known as Jumbo, comes back to a small coastal town after lending money to the former head of Baba Clinic. He ends up taking over as the clinic's director, where Nurse Asuka Baba, the late director's daughter, also works. Asuka is new to her role but shows great dedication and warmth. The dynamic between Doctor Tsuruda and Nurse Asuka involves disagreements as they strive to care for their patients.

Kashiwagi possesses a unique gift of foreseeing the fates of couples. Despite her own struggles in love, she is able to witness the different outcomes of relationships at the cafe where she works alongside Sano and Konno, who specialize in ending relationships. As Kashiwagi observes the varied endings of these relationships, she gains insight into the true meaning of love and learns valuable lessons that contribute to her personal growth.

This drama on BeeTV is a live-action adaptation of Youko Nemu's manga "Gozen 3 ji no Muhou Chitai." The story follows Nanase Momoko, a new designer at a busy office that focuses on creating pachinko parlors. Honda Tsubasa stars as Momoko, while Odagiri Joe plays Tagayashi, a salaryman at a trading company in the same building as Momoko's office.

Large corporations and trading companies are acquiring hospitals overseas or constructing new healthcare facilities in foreign countries to attract wealthy individuals seeking medical services. Meanwhile, in Japan, medium-sized hospitals responsible for serving rural areas are struggling due to a lack of doctors. The closure of these vital hospitals is causing concern among the public. In the midst of this challenging situation, Asada Ryutaro and Team Dragon come together to establish an ideal hospital and take action. However, they face various obstacles, including the interference of business consultant Okamura Tadashi. Okamura, recognized as one of the world's top businessmen for his successful hospital reorganization projects in the US, has partnered with Noguchi Takeo to introduce high-quality Japanese medical services in India. He sees Japanese doctors as essential for entering the market and attempts to recruit Team Dragon, who are not easily swayed by money or prestige. Despite this, Okamura employs various tactics to persuade them to join his project.

Bar Lemon Heart is back for another season, with the Master bartender tackling a customer's personal issues each week, all while impressing with his extensive expertise in wine and liquor.

Due to certain circumstances, Koda Sumomo finds herself in a state of limbo, unable to move forward or backward. In search of solace, she visits Auberge Gilda, located just a short distance from Cape Shide, a notorious location for suicide attempts. Under the guidance of the owner, Shiraishi Yuko, Sumomo joins forces with employee Koreeda Ibuki and chef Omori Zen for a period of three months. The auberge attracts a diverse range of guests, each grappling with their own personal struggles, such as an actress embroiled in scandal and a man facing divorce upon reaching retirement age. Witnessing the transformative effect of their stay at Auberge Gilda prompts Sumomo to undergo a change of heart. However, she soon discovers a hidden secret held by Yuko.

An illicit romance blooms between a part-time employee and the manager at the store where she works, leading her to pursue not only the manager but also his son and wife. Desperate for happiness, she becomes entangled in a certain family's dynamics. This story is adapted from the manga series "Nukarumi no Shokutaku" by Inako.

Tanigawa Risa has always aspired to be a successful PR creator. Her dream comes true when she is hired by the prestigious cosmetics company Christina, known for its top PR creators. Risa's life takes an unexpected turn when she is asked to fill in as a model for a campaign photoshoot after the original model disappears. Despite never considering a career in modeling and actually disliking makeup, Risa is faced with a rare opportunity to step into the glamorous world of high fashion. How will this determined 20-year-old handle the sudden chance to make it big? (DramaWiki)

Kinue works as a sales associate in the futon department of a department store. Unexpectedly, she is reassigned to the women's apparel section, despite not having a strong sense of style. Her new supervisor, Miki, quickly exposes Kinue to the challenging environment of the fashion industry. In this new role, Kinue gains insights into the significance of life, love, and career development. (Tokyograph)

Seino, a manga creator residing in Tokyo, suddenly becomes aware of numerous towns on the map that he has never encountered

Kunimitsu is a man who has a bold vision to reform a corrupt Japan. His journey to potentially become Prime Minister begins with a heartfelt and humorous campaign for mayor in a small town, illustrating how unexpected outcomes can occur in unlikely places. Known for his enthusiasm and dramatic flair, Kunimitsu approaches everything with passion and a strong sense of justice. Despite initially aiming to work as a secretary for the town council, he finds himself unexpectedly teaching at a primary school. Through the school elections, he is able to connect with the community and address the challenges faced by students and parents, ultimately awakening the town to the upcoming mayoral elections.

After her father's unexpected passing, a woman decides to quit her job at a hotel and transform her father's warehouse into an inn

Anri possesses the ability to act as a "time guide", allowing individuals the opportunity to reset their lives and make positive changes. (DramaWiki)

The show is a comedic portrayal of the inner workings of politics, focusing on a fictional secretary of the House of Representatives. The characters' names are largely inspired by real-life politicians and political parties.

A surge of graffiti has been reported in the Hon-Ikegami station vicinity. Police chief Shiina is brainstorming solutions, but Maejima points out that the department is understaffed to effectively tackle the issue. Concurrently, a wave of car thefts plaguing the country reaches the Hon-Ikegami area. The newly appointed leader of the 2nd Division, Oyamada, is eager to swiftly resolve the crimes, a sentiment shared by the station's deputy Aoyagi. Despite this, Shiina takes it upon himself to personally investigate the graffiti incidents.

According to legend, a bride who wears a gown created by the renowned designer Madam Mari on her wedding day will discover genuine happiness. Reiko, a young advertising professional who is engaged to marry a colleague, decides to have her wedding dress made by Madam Mari after hearing about the legend. However, her initial meeting with the dressmaker doesn't go as planned, leading to unexpected changes in her life. Soon, Reiko finds herself working as an assistant to Madam Mari, who designs unique dresses for clients seeking happiness in their love lives. The series showcases different clients coming to Madam Mari with romantic challenges and receiving one-of-a-kind dresses that help them find true love. The story revolves around the pragmatic and sometimes skeptical Mari and the optimistic Reiko, who believes in love and dreams of marital bliss. This tale is not just for women in search of happiness, but for anyone facing difficulties in life. The show also highlights the diverse wedding dresses created by the legendary dressmaker, ranging from simple and elegant to extravagant. (YTV)

Based on the manga "Chocolat" by the author Kubonouchi Eisaku.

After her company unexpectedly went bankrupt, Minamikoko successfully passed the fireman's exam. Natsuko, who didn't have a natural aptitude for firefighting, often received criticism from her boss due to her clumsiness and poor teamwork. Over time, she adapted to her surroundings, bonded with her colleagues, and eventually excelled as a frontline firefighter.

The 14th installment of NHK Yorudora, titled "Wait a Moment, God," follows the story of a homemaker who tragically passes away in an accident and finds herself inhabiting the body of a teenage girl. This plot is inspired by the manga "Akihiko Talks" by Yumiko Oshima.

Based on Takamochi Gen's manga "Head of Police" ( ).

This installment is the third in a series that vividly portrays human emotions and family bonds within the Central Ikegami Police Station. Station chief Shiina Keisuke and the rest of the team undergo life-changing experiences in this episode, including dealing with exam stress, witnessing graduations, facing promotions and transfers, and navigating love and marriage. By delving into the everyday aspects of their lives, this episode reveals their true humanity in a more profound manner. The addition of new team members adds to the bustling atmosphere, with crack detective Gondo Kaoru being one of the three new recruits, and publisher Motomiya Suzu frequently visiting the Shiina household as Keisuke's wife Eiko works towards publishing her picture book.

Based on the manga "Chief of Police" written by Takamochi Gen.

In February 2006, on Shikina Island, Dr. Koto is cycling around to see his patients when he learns that Takehiro, a boy raised on the island, has successfully passed the entrance exam for a junior high school in Tokyo. This news spreads excitement throughout the island. At the same time, the island's sole nurse, Ayaka, is reported to be in Tokyo attending a rehabilitation seminar, but in reality, she has gone there for a medical check-up. (Fuji TV)

Ando Natsu, with aspirations of becoming a pastry chef, faces unemployment when the shop owner unexpectedly passes away. She travels to Tokyo in hopes of finding a job at a bakery, but discovers that the hiring period has already ended with no vacancies. It is during this time that she meets the renowned Japanese bakery "Mangetsudo" for the first time. The bakery is managed by the experienced pastry chefs Umekichi, Takezo, and Mitsuko, who are in need of a part-time employee. Through a series of fortunate events, Natsu secures a position at Mangetsudo. While her initial role is to assist customers, Natsu becomes intrigued by the world of Japanese sweets. Accustomed to working in cake shops, she finds everything at Mangetsudo to be fresh and captivating, gradually immersing herself in the intricacies of Japanese confectionery.

The plot centers around the unusual occurrences in the life of Konno Miyuki, a high school student who always wears a sailor uniform. This story is based on the manga series "Konno-san to Asobo" by the author Yasuda Hiroyuki.

Years after the events of Iryu 2, the members of Team Medical Dragon come together once more to save a struggling Meishin University Hospital.

Naka Riisa portrays a manga artist who attends a party celebrating another manga artist. During the event, she meets five men who inspire her to create five different stories in her mind.

Mikoto Saijou came into the world with a heart condition where the two main vessels to his heart were twisted. When he was 10 years old, he underwent a challenging surgical procedure led by the renowned pediatric heart surgeon Dr. Mamoru Shindo at Saihama Medical University Hospital to correct his condition. This experience motivated Mikoto Saijou to pursue a career in pediatric surgery, aspiring to become one of the best in the field, just like Dr. Mamoru Shindo.

The TV show depicts the experiences of individuals in debt who face challenges from Kaoru Ushijima. Additionally, Kaoru Ushijima's business, Kaukau Finance, encounters a crisis.

The series follows the journey of Ritsu, a young boy who takes on the responsibility of looking after his two younger siblings while their mother is in the hospital. As he cares for them, Ritsu explores his talent for cooking and becomes enamored with the art of culinary creation. However, his life takes a turn when he learns that he is not biologically related to his family. (

TV series based on the popular manga created by Mitsutoshi Furuya.

Mayumi (Mitsumune Kaoru), an employee at a publishing company, crosses paths with a enigmatic individual who goes by the name Shindo (Nakamura Tomoya). Foretold by a fortune teller of a fated encounter, she takes notice. However, instead of the anticipated meeting, she finds herself face to face with Ushijima Kaoru (Yamada Takayuki), the leader of Cowcow Finance, a notorious underground money lender. Operating with an exorbitant interest rate of 5% every 10 days, Cowcow Finance aggressively pursues those in debt.

The Osawagi family resides in Urayasu, Chiba Prefecture, a location in close proximity to Tokyo. Daitetsu, the head of the household, shares a home with his wife Junko, their four children, and his father Kintetsu. They are an eccentric and lively group, turning even the most mundane situations - like dining out or a child falling ill - into chaotic events beyond belief once they are in the mix.

When Shiho Nishina became concerned about her intimate relationship with her spouse, he suggested the idea of attending a couples' swap event. Initially hesitant, Shiho eventually agreed after her husband's persistence. She reluctantly agreed, insisting they would only observe. Meanwhile, a couple exchange club called "Aquarium" was managed by a former diplomat, Mr. Kubozuka, and his wife. Initially cautious, Shiho was gradually drawn to the charm of the Kubozuka couple and decided to swap partners with them. Their initial happiness soon turned into a nightmare, revealing unforeseen consequences.