Asian dramas like
Dou Suru Ieyasu

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)

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)

Isobe Isobee is a student at a samurai school who aspires to become a renowned samurai, yet he constantly attempts to avoid putting in effort on a daily basis

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 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.

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.

"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.

Yan Man, a young orphan living on the streets, infiltrates the prestigious Dai family mansion in Shanghai by pretending to be a servant. Her true motive is to seek out the individual responsible for her younger brother's tragic demise. Captivating the hearts of the two heirs of the Dai family, Yan Man becomes the center of their rivalry. As she delves deeper into the mystery surrounding her brother's death, she realizes that her own life is at risk. To safeguard her, the younger heir Dai Jun Tao orchestrates a sham marriage with Yan Man. However, due to her independent nature and humble background, she struggles to adapt to life in the Dai household.

In July of 1590 in Odawara, Toyotomi Hideyoshi's army besieged Odawara Castle for more than three months in an effort to overcome the final barrier to unifying the country. A lone figure stood before the castle gates, urging the defenders not to sacrifice their lives and to cherish life. Soon after, the castle surrendered, with the man known as Kuroda Kanbee at the forefront. Kanbee, a skilled military strategist, collaborated closely with Hideyoshi in the campaign for unification. Born into a modest family that had relocated to Harima, Kanbee earned the trust and reliance of his mentor, Kodera Masamoto. At the age of 22, Kanbee assumed leadership of the Kuroda clan, marrying Masamoto's daughter, Teru, in the process. Although they had a son together, Kanbee, seeing that Teru was unable to conceive again, decided to adopt young children of his vassals as his proteges, forming the "Kuroda's warriors". By the time Kanbee turned 30, a rising lord was making strides towards unifying Japan, setting the stage for a showdown between Oda and Mori Terumoto in Harima. Kanbee was drawn to Oda's vision for unification and traveled to Gifu Castle to meet him, where he crossed paths with Toyotomi Hideyoshi. This encounter led to Kanbee becoming Hideyoshi's right-hand man, marking the inception of Gunshi Kanbee.

During the Edo period, Nagasaki grew into a cosmopolitan hub frequented by Westerners engaging in trade. Interpreters played a crucial role in facilitating negotiations and gathering information. In the 2nd year of Kaei (1849), a young man named Ijima Sota journeyed from Edo to Nagasaki in search of his missing father. Sota, known for his inquisitive nature, was learning English at a private school when he stumbled upon a revelation about his father. With the support of his friends, he devised a plan to uncover the truth.

A television show that follows the journey of a man who overcame the restrictive caste system to achieve success in his profession. The historical figure Hur Jun, who authored Dongui Bogam, a work recognized as a UNESCO Memory of the World, did so 400 years ago. Even in the 21st century, Hur Jun's book continues to be utilized by traditional oriental physicians to treat patients. (MBC)

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.

After Taira no Kiyomori rose to power, the Minamoto clan was banished. Minamoto no Yoritomo encounters Masako, who is the sibling of Hojo Yoshitoki, and they eventually wed. This union sets in motion the fate of Yoshitoki.

Following the Onin War, the country falls into disarray. In the midst of this turmoil, notable figures from the warring states step forward to bring unity and order to the land. In the 1540s, a young samurai named Akechi Mitsuhide roams the region of Mino, strategically positioned between the East and West. The Toki clan, ruling over Mino, experiences internal conflicts while facing threats from the Oda of Owari, the Imagawa of Suruga, and the Asakura of Echizen. Mitsuhide is drawn into battle and successfully defeats the enemy, showcasing his valor and strategic skills. His actions capture the attention of Saito Toshimasa, a key member of the Toki clan, who recognizes Mitsuhide's potential. Saito Toshimasa, also known as Saito Dosan, eventually seizes control of the Toki clan and establishes his dominance in Mino.

In the Edo era, a distressed samurai is given cutting-edge household gadgets from the contemporary world

Fujiyoshi Sarina experienced the loss of both her parents during her teenage years. She currently resides with her grandfather, Rintaro, whom she assists while harboring dreams of creating her own wine one day. One snowy day in March, Sarina crosses paths with a young traveler named Matsuda Ryo, whom she offers shelter for the night. Eventually, Ryo begins working alongside Sarina and her grandfather. As time passes, a close bond forms between Sarina and Ryo, but Ryo carries a significant secret.

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.

A tale of a talented swordsman who encounters various challenges instilled in him a strong sense of righteousness and genuine compassion for common people. Sakazaki Iwane is a masterless samurai spending his days leisurely in Edo. Previously, he was a promising heir to a prominent family in Bungo until tragedy struck in their domain, resulting in the deaths of his two close friends. One of his friends was killed by Iwane on the orders of the domain lord's top retainer. Distraught, Iwane left his hometown for Edo, leaving behind his fiancée who was the sister of the friend he had to slay. As he delves deeper, Iwane uncovers a plot behind his friends' deaths and works towards reforming his domain. (NHK)

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.

Taking place in the Bakumatsu era, which marked the end of the Edo period, the story follows Sakai Banshiro, a samurai of humble origins. He decides to leave his family and serve at the lord's castle. By preparing dishes based on recipes from his wife, Banshiro brings comfort and solutions to the troubles of the people around him.

The story revolves around the experiences of three sisters following the death of their parents. In Ok is the sister who is willing to do anything for her siblings. When In Ok discovers that her younger sister, In Soo, has had a child outside of marriage, she steps up to care for In Soo's daughter while In Soo travels to Germany to chase her aspiration of becoming a doctor. (DramaWiki)

Akiko resides with her mother until her mother's unexpected passing. Following this, she resigns from her editing position to manage her mother's cozy restaurant. The restaurant offers a simple menu consisting of sandwiches and soup. This story is adapted from the novel "Bread And Soup And Cat Weather" by Mure Yoko.

Two identical twins were separated at birth and brought up in contrasting environments.

Ritsu was left by his mother Reiko when he was young, leading him to live in the lower socioeconomic class. After sustaining a severe head injury in a case, Ritsu's life is at risk. Believing his mother abandoned him due to financial struggles, Ritsu sets out to reconcile with her before his potential demise. However, upon discovering that she is happily living with her son Satoru, a talented pianist, Ritsu decides to seek revenge. Along the way, Ritsu encounters Rinka, a girl he had helped before, and learns she is Satoru's childhood friend.

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)

Set in 1930s Shanghai, this tale follows a man hailing from a family of magicians who embarks on a journey of nationalism after seeking vengeance for his father's murder. Ye Fei's father, Ye Jin, leads the Jin Rong troupe, known for its lineage of skilled magicians. Following a victorious showdown with a German magician, Ye Jin is shunned by fellow troupes and succumbs to despair. Motivated by a thirst for retribution, Ye Fei ventures North to train under a renowned master. Upon completing his education, Ye Fei relocates to Shanghai where he crosses paths with Xiao Yao, the daughter of a crime boss, who falls for him. However, their romantic saga takes a backseat when war breaks out, forcing them to prioritize their country over their personal vendettas.

This drama focuses on the 1979 seizure of power in the Korean government by Chun Doo Hwan.

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.

In the late 1950s, a student named Wen Yi Qiu (played by Yin Tao) from the Beijing Broadcasting Institute falls in love with a Soviet announcer named Wei Ka and they get married in Beijing. However, the Soviet Union decides to recall its specialists from Beijing, leading Wei Ka to return to his homeland. Yi Qiu then moves to the border town of Hehei to work as an announcer in order to be closer to her husband. Eventually, Wei Ka is assigned to a post in Blagoveshchensk, a city on the other side of the border. Despite the distance, they find solace in listening to each other's broadcasts and hope for improved relations between China and the Soviet Union.

The tale starts four years prior to her birth, when her mother Chou, a hopeful opera vocalist studying at a music school, crossed paths with her father Moritsuna, a skilled violin player. This narrative is inspired by the life of Kuroyanagi Tetsuko.

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.

Taking place in the 8th-9th century, Aterui leads the Emishi tribe in the Isawa Prefecture of northern Japan. Despite being outnumbered by the Yamato government's massive military force, Aterui bravely defends his tribe. This story is inspired by Katsuhiko Takahashi's novel "Kaen Kita no Yosei Aterui," published by Kodansha on October 16, 2002.

In order to fulfill her father's request and uncover her heritage, Dai Tian-qing sets off on a trip throughout Taiwan where she encounters love and redemption. (Netflix) Inspired by Taiwan's railway system.

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 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.

The narrative revolves around a lovely yet impoverished woman named Pearls and the wealthy Ge family's affectionate son, Renjie, who are unable to be together. Due to a mix-up, Pearls ends up marrying her beloved "foolish" young master, Lu Tianzhi. Caught in a love triangle, Pearls and Renjie struggle between feelings and obligations. In the end, Lu Tianzhi chooses to protect Pearls' heart, showing his true emotions.

A biographical series depicting the life of the renowned poet and statesman Su Dongpo, also known as Su Shi. The show will follow Su Shi's journey over six decades, starting from his early days traveling to the capital of the Song Dynasty to participate in the civil service exam alongside his younger brother, up until his passing.

This narrative recounts the tragic events of the Tangshan earthquake in 1976, where a mother and her daughter were torn apart only to be reunited 32 years later. Throughout the years, they navigate life's ups and downs, carrying with them the pain, regret, and resentment from that fateful moment of separation. This story is based on the Zhang Ling novel that served as the inspiration for Feng Xiao Gang's successful film in 2010.

In a naval military district located in Qingdao, the head of the Naval Artillery School, Cong, and his wife, Yang Tao, organized a social event for the officers to help them find suitable partners. Their main goal was to assist the senior officers in addressing their personal marriage concerns. One of the officers, Jiang De Fu, was highly respected by Principal Cong. Upon the recommendation of the couple, Jiang De Fu met a young and attractive woman named An Jie at the event, and they developed a strong affection for each other. Despite Jiang De Fu appearing older than his age, An Jie was not bothered by it at all. Due to An Jie's modest family background, Jiang De Fu provided continuous support to her and her family. Over time, An Jie realized that Jiang De Fu, despite his rugged appearance, was actually a charming and clever individual.

Twenty years ago, Tokiko lost her mother, leaving her father Tetsuya, who is now in his 70s, as her only parent. Despite their rocky past, Tokiko and Tetsuya now occasionally spend time together, sharing meals and conversations. Tokiko, who is in her mid-40s and still unmarried, is known for her strong personality. Recently, she decided to write an essay about her father, gathering information by listening to his stories, both pleasant and otherwise.

This is the tale of two youthful samurai, Itsuma Toudo and Shinsaburo Takeda, embarking on a mission to combat wickedness. Their primary aim is to emulate their leader Kinshiro Toyama, who champions the underprivileged peasants, and earn a reputation as an exemplary individual.

The show follows the challenges and successes faced by Cheng Ban Kiu, a painter living in the Qing dynasty. Despite facing various obstacles, Ban Kiu eventually gains recognition for his exceptional skills in bamboo painting, a passion he shares with the emperor who seeks the best bamboo painting to be buried with him. Ban Kiu's famous quote, "Ignorance is Bliss", ultimately leads to unforeseen difficulties in his life.

Following the passing of her father, a magician, Maki decides to take on his mantle. However, her true passion has always been to pursue a career as a nurse. One day, Matsutaro, the head of Isshoku Clinic in Hayama, attends a magic show and learns about Maki's aspirations. Touched by her dream, he offers his support. Maki then begins her new journey at the clinic, where her magical abilities unexpectedly prove to be beneficial in the medical setting.

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.

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)

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)

In 1802, a young girl named Mio faced tragedy when she lost her parents in a flood in Osaka. Feeling alone after being separated from her friend Noe, she was rescued by Yoshi, the owner of Tenman Icchoan, a renowned restaurant in Osaka. Despite being forbidden from the kitchen due to her gender, Mio began learning to cook under Yoshi's guidance. When the restaurant was destroyed in a fire, Mio traveled to Edo with Yoshi and her husband Kahei. Through a stroke of luck, they were offered a job at Tsurya, a soba shop owned by Taneichi. Mio struggled with the different culinary styles of Kansai and Edo, as well as facing challenges from rival shops and societal barriers in her romance with the samurai Komatsubara. Despite these obstacles, she persevered and became a successful female chef.