Asian dramas like
Good Life Arigatou Papa Sayonara

In 1979, Miyamoto Takumi's life takes an unexpected turn when he encounters a mysterious young man named Tokio in Asakusa. Claiming to be Takumi's son from the future, Tokio showcases his ability to predict the future, create unconventional machines, and demonstrate peculiar powers. Initially skeptical, Takumi gradually begins to believe Tokio as he witnesses his extraordinary abilities. Fast forward to 2004, Miyamoto Tokio falls gravely ill, prompting 50-year-old Takumi to reminisce about the peculiar events from 25 years ago. The story unfolds as a father and son transcend time and space to reunite in 1979, embarking on a journey across Tokyo, Nagoya, and Osaka in search of Takumi's missing lover, Chizuru. Through their adventures, Takumi evolves as a person, thanks to the influence of his son from the future. As they spend two remarkable weeks together, Tokio imparts an uplifting message to his father, leaving a lasting impact on Takumi's life.

The narrative revolves around Zhou Zhen Hua, a medical oncologist facing a life-threatening disease, who plans to create a joyful conclusion for his cherished wife

Upon learning that he is in the advanced stages of lung cancer, Jang Young Chul reflects on his life and starts to grasp the significance of family, affection, and career. This drama explores the roots and truths of the ongoing struggles between spouses and between parents and their children.

Daisuke Manpyo is the president and owner of the thriving Hanshin Bank, as well as the proprietor of multiple other businesses and properties. He receives inside information from his son-in-law, a government official at the Ministry of Finance, about a potential restructuring of the banking industry. Manpyo faces challenges as he works to prevent the merger of his bank with another institution.

Following a decade of separation due to the father living overseas, a father and daughter face the challenge of healing old wounds. The daughter, who has been residing with her aunt since her parents' divorce and abandonment, struggles to forgive and reconnect with her father upon his return. Despite their turbulent relationship, the aunt's nurturing support helps the father and daughter navigate their emotions and come to terms with their familial roles.

Oncologist Onda Kokoro, known affectionately as Dr. Onkoro, was believed to be destined for her career path. She was happily married to Takumi, whom she had known since her student days, and they had a son together. However, tragedy struck three months ago when Takumi was involved in an accident and remained in a coma after emergency surgery. Despite putting on a brave front at work, Kokoro struggled to come to terms with the harsh reality. A ray of hope entered her life when she met Kajiyama Kaoru, a skilled gastroenterologist who had recently joined their hospital. Kaoru provided much-needed emotional support with her cheerful personality and understanding of the importance of oncology as a surgeon. She quickly became a dear friend to Kokoro, bringing a newfound brightness to both her personal and professional life.

In the present day, Fang Lang, a self-sufficient and detached urban professional woman, carries the enduring childhood trauma within her. The unexpected death of her father in a factory fire, and the survival of her stepmother who competed with him for a college spot, still weigh heavily on her mind. Her unrelated younger brother remains a silent burden, like a heavy weight in her heart. She had hoped that buying her own home and finding true love would bring a fresh start, but her stepmother's sudden illness shattered her peace. Encouraged by her younger brother Liu Chen and her boyfriend Zhou Junfeng, she decides to return to her hometown to care for her stepmother, only to uncover hidden truths from the past. As she reconnects with those intertwined in her life, the joys and sorrows of each family member begin to unfold.

The tale follows three couples in their thirties to forties as they navigate the challenges of a hectic lifestyle, striving to preserve their identities and values

Xiang Zhi Jun has three daughters residing in different cities: Shanghai, Kunshan, and Suzhou. The eldest, Xiang Qian, aged 35, has achieved significant success in her professional life. Xiang Zhong, the middle daughter at 31, is actively working towards her future goals. The youngest, Xiang Nan, aged 26, has a pure and romantic demeanor. Challenges in the marriages of all three daughters bring them closer together as they provide mutual support and encouragement. With guidance from their parents, Xiang Zhong manages to overcome difficulties with her in-laws and rebuild her confidence in her marriage. Xiang Qian uncovers her husband Gao Ping's true nature and finds a renewed sense of purpose in her career and personal life. Xiang Nan also navigates through her uncertainties and gains a deeper understanding of marriage and self-awareness.

Based on the book "The Legend of Ta I Yuen" written by Hou Wen Yong.

Shiratori Sakuto, aged 28, possesses the cognitive abilities of a 6-year-old child. He is employed at Dream Flower Service, a floral distribution center that offers jobs to troubled young individuals. During a delivery with his coworker Yanagawa Ryuichi, Sakuto visits the residence of Mochizuki Haruka to drop off a bouquet of roses. Unaware of Sakuto's mental condition, Haruka is taken aback by his behavior and considers contacting the authorities. Haruka is employed at a research facility specializing in brain function, under the supervision of Professor Hachisuka. The professor has been conducting experiments aimed at enhancing cognitive capabilities, with successful results observed in a laboratory mouse named Algernon. Following a surgical procedure, Sakuto undergoes a remarkable transformation, evolving into a brilliant mind.

Based on Ba Jin's novel "Cold Nights," ( ) was the inspiration for this adaptation.

Based on Hai Yan's novel "The Crimson Stream."

An established family business faces upheaval after the unexpected passing of the family patriarch, leading to a tense power struggle between his three wealthy daughters and a pregnant young woman of humble origins who was carrying his child. Based on the book by Yamasaki Toyoko ( ).

Xu Meng An, a woman in her middle age, believed she had everything under control until her life took an unexpected turn. Facing layoffs at work, a halt in her career advancement, her husband's job loss, concerns about her daughter's romantic life, and the surprise of a second child, she found herself overwhelmed. Balancing personal growth with family responsibilities became a pressing issue for her. Meanwhile, her friend Chen Wan Zhen, feeling neglected by her husband as a stay-at-home mom, decided to reenter the workforce. Xu Meng An's sister, Xu Meng Xin, struggled with hormone imbalances during pregnancy. Through their challenges and hardships, they managed to overcome obstacles and find new opportunities for growth in life.

Kano, the head of a yakuza gang, possesses the bravery and resilience typical of a yakuza leader, remaining composed even when faced with a gun. Despite his authoritative and tough demeanor, Kano has recently developed a fear of sharp objects, experiencing symptoms like nausea and difficulty breathing. Concerned about how this phobia may impact his yakuza lifestyle, Kano heeds the advice of his partner Kazumi and visits the Department of Psychosomatic Medicine at Irabu General Hospital. There, he encounters the quirky psychiatrist Irabu Ichiro, who warmly welcomes him. Despite trying to maintain his intimidating facade, Kano is given an injection by Irabu and the nurse Mayumi. After receiving some unconventional advice from Irabu, Kano leaves the hospital feeling uncertain. As his phobia worsens, Kano also faces anxiety about an upcoming confrontation with rival gang Kitsuan-gumi. The suggestion to have his finger cut by Irabu further unsettles Kano, highlighting the challenges he must overcome.

Shirakawa, a skilled doctor, is faced with a difficult situation when his 21-year-old patient, Shotaro, is suffering from terminal cancer. Despite his best efforts, Shirakawa is unable to alleviate Shotaro's pain. When Shotaro's aunt requests euthanasia for her nephew, Shirakawa reluctantly agrees. However, this decision leads to a legal battle initiated by Shotaro's indifferent mother, Yasuya, sparking a debate on the ethics of euthanasia.

This tale follows a mother, Li Xiao Han, and her daughter who has contracted HIV. Their lives are changed when Dr. An Jie Luo enters the picture. An accomplished doctor who lost his girlfriend to a terminal illness, he seeks out the mother and daughter to fulfill his late girlfriend's final request.

Sawada Takuto, a typical college student, discovers he has been diagnosed with A.L.S. (Lou Gehrig's disease) and has limited time left. Rather than succumbing to sadness, Takuto chooses to embrace life to the fullest.

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.

A tale of optimism and disappointment unfolds in the lives of a mother and her son in a small town in Subei. Ding Xiao Jun, an 18-year-old who resides with his mother Ding Bi Yun, secures a spot at a university in Beijing. Despite facing mockery from his peers upon starting university, Ding Xiao Jun rebels until receiving a warning about his graduation prospects. Fortunately, his mother intervenes just in time for him to turn things around and successfully graduate. After entering society with enthusiasm and hope, Ding Xiao Jun falls victim to a scam in Japan, leading him to wander as a vagrant for months. Realizing the sacrifices his mother made for him, he reaches out to her and decides to return home. By New Year's Eve of 2010, Ding Xiao Jun lands a job in Beijing, only to receive devastating news about his mother's terminal illness. Now faced with a difficult decision, he must choose between advancing his career in Beijing or returning home to care for his mother in her final days.

A typical middle-aged woman has dedicated her life to her loved ones. After being diagnosed with terminal cancer, she faces the difficult task of saying farewell to her family.

According to the novel "Chu Hun" written by Wu Ke Jing.

In the Kitano family, Kikujiro is a strict and short-tempered father who also has a daringly comical personality. His wife, Saki, is a positive, cheerful, and clever woman who often argues with her husband but stands by him during difficult times. This story allows viewers to reflect on the strong and close-knit family bonds of the past, when Japan was not as prosperous as it is today. This drama is inspired by an autobiographical book written by actor and director Takeshi Kitano.

Endo Kumiko plays the role of Kuniko in the series, who is the daughter of an employee working for the wealthy hotel owner, Soemon Ataka. Kuniko chooses to marry Soichi, Soemon's son who has intellectual disabilities, because she values his pure heart over his family's wealth. Soichi faces disdain from his brother Joji, who has squandered his share of the inheritance due to unsuccessful business ventures. Kuniko struggles to defend the last hotel remaining from Joji's schemes, while Joji's wife starts to influence Soichi's feelings.

Miyaji Nao is a married woman with a husband and a son. She prioritizes taking care of her son over focusing on her appearance. Nao leads a content life until she is approached to become a reader model for the well-known women's fashion magazine, VANiTY. This opportunity marks a turning point in her life.

The narrative unfolds when the daughter of a woman, who engages in an affair because of her husband's lack of attention, is abducted and tragically loses her life. Upon discovering his wife's infidelity, the husband is left to raise the child of a killer.

The story unfolds in 1988, centering on Kang Man Ho, a stuntman in his early thirties. After a brief encounter with a pianist named Lee Hyun Jae, Man Ho finds himself faced with the responsibilities of fatherhood as he learns to care for his son and make sacrifices for him.

Based on the book "To Live" authored by Yu Hua.

In the Kitano family, Kikujiro is described as a strict and hot-tempered individual with a comical old-fashioned style. Saki, on the other hand, is a positive, cheerful, and clever woman who often argues with her husband but stands by him through any difficulties. This story allows viewers to reflect on the strong and deep family bonds that existed in Japan during less prosperous times, as depicted in an autobiographical book by actor/director Takeshi Kitano.

Based on the book "Big Life" written by Qiao Yu.

Based on Wan Fang's book "Kong Jing Zi" (*title in Chinese characters*).

Ah Wing, a single father at the age of forty, has been caring for his son "Bo Long Gor" since the tragic passing of his wife in an accident. He runs a convenience store near his son's school and the two rely on each other for support. Through this experience, Ah Wing has transformed into a compassionate man who understands the importance of love and sacrifice. An insurance policy taken out by his late wife leads Ah Wing to meet Zi Meng, an insurance consultant, and their shared hardships bring them close as friends. Zi Meng, who was previously focused on her career and uninterested in marriage, starts to reconsider her views on love and commitment due to Ah Wing's kindness and affectionate nature. While Ah Wing has helped many people and formed friendships with women, he still mourns his wife deeply. As his relationships with these women become complex, Ah Wing realizes that he and Zi Meng share a special bond built on empathy and understanding.

Sachiko, a 17-year-old girl, is the daughter of Professor Oshima, who works as a radiotherapist. Unfortunately, Sachiko develops leukemia after being exposed to radiation at the hospital. Adding to her troubles, she learns that Oshima is not her biological father and that her boyfriend is actually her half brother.

I Am Yu Huanshui tells the story of a man who endures hardships until he learns he has a terminal illness, transforming his outlook on life. This drama is based on the novel If There Is No Tomorrow. (DramaPanda)

During the 1980s, two siblings from a rural farming community decide to leave their impoverished village and seek a better life in the bustling city of Haizhou. Liu Xing He, a kind and eager individual, sacrifices his own chance at education so that his younger brother, Liu Xing Chen, can pursue his studies. However, Xing He also makes his way to the city, following the village beauty Hao Yi Duo. When Hao Yi Duo falls victim to a fraudulent investment using all her wedding dowries, Xing He comes to her aid and crosses paths with Su Zi Tong. Grateful for Xing He's previous assistance, Zi Tong recommends him to her father for a job opportunity. Meanwhile, Xing Chen grows envious of his older brother and causes trouble repeatedly. Despite this, Xing He remains determined to guide his brother onto the right path.

During a chilly Christmas in 1996, Fong Kin Choi, a dedicated worker, fell ill and expressed his final wish to reunite with his youngest son, Ka Him, from whom he had been separated for 12 years following a divorce. It was revealed that Ka Him had been struggling with mental health issues due to his mother's drug addiction and involvement in illegal activities since childhood. After Kin Choi's passing, his eldest son, Ka Fai, took Ka Him under his wing and helped him overcome his challenges to live a fulfilling life. Ka Fai discovered Ka Him's hidden talent for music, particularly the piano, and with his support, Ka Him rose to fame as a pianist, proving that despite his mental health issues, he could achieve success and lead a normal life like anyone else. The journey to success for Ka Him was marked by setbacks and discrimination due to his disability, but in the end, his perseverance was recognized. The narrative of the show conveys a powerful message that individuals with disabilities can thrive, and that discrimination only hinders their progress.

After leading a typical life as a high school educator, Hideo Nakamura is devastated to learn that he has just one year left to live. Struggling with a deep fear of death and mental turmoil, he finds himself consumed with regret over his past actions. Despite this, Hideo resolves to make the most of his remaining time and embrace a positive outlook, choosing to focus on creating a memorable final year rather than dwelling on the 28 years that have passed.

Kamikawa Ryohei, a 35-year-old man employed by a multinational corporation, enjoys a content family life with his wife and son. However, when he decides to make a career change and resign from his job, his wife unexpectedly disappears, leaving him to manage the household and raise their son on his own. On the other hand, Saeki Shinichiro, aged 61, chooses to live independently after losing his wife to an illness shortly after retiring from his long-time job.

Detective Choi Jang Soo, who is battling Alzheimer’s disease, resolves to focus on bringing happiness to his family upon realizing his time is limited. The narrative of Choi Jang Soo and Oh So Young presents a relatable portrayal of a married couple. Their relationship faces difficulties when Huh Jun Ho, a fund manager who has been in love with So Young for years, and former criminal Jo Hyun Soo, who has feelings for Jang Soo, enter their lives. The drama highlights the everyday struggles of fathers who must often prioritize work over family and mothers who transform into determined "warriors," willing to do whatever it takes for their loved ones. (KBS Global Marketing)

The plot follows the heartwarming tale of three generations navigating the path of personal growth while upholding family, love, and joy. Zhao Jia Di, the central character, is a wealthy young man who initially lived a carefree life. However, he grew discontented with his father's constant work commitments, leading to a strained relationship between them. Despite rejecting his father's financial assistance, Zhao Jia Di faced financial struggles and learned to rely on his own skills to survive. As he excelled in business during his school years, his future began to look brighter. What obstacles will they encounter on their journey through life? (MyAsianArtist.com)

The play delves into the dynamics between mother-in-laws and daughter-in-laws in modern urban families by narrating brief family anecdotes from the parents of two different families. It also sheds light on the marriage experiences of young couples born in the 1980s who embrace a fresh perspective on love and marriage.

The narrative centers around five individuals who are the offspring of parents who were sent to rural areas during the Cultural Revolution. These individuals are no longer in their teenage years but are now approaching their thirties, navigating their way through building careers and forming relationships in a contemporary society. (Wikipedia)

Natsuko Miyamoto, a 48-year-old stay-at-home mother to two children (Hana, 20, and Kotaro, 17), is taken aback when her husband Akira, aged 54, reveals his plans to leave his job and pursue his passion for agriculture. Feeling motivated to find her own employment, Natsuko encounters obstacles due to lack of experience and her age. However, a surprising turn of events leads her to discover potential job opportunities at a disorganized supermarket. (DramaWiki)

Kikujiro, the patriarch of the Kitano household, is a stern and easily agitated individual with a quirky sense of humor. His wife, Saki, is an optimistic, lively, and intelligent woman who frequently argues with her husband but stands by him through tough times. This story allows viewers to reflect on the deep and resilient bonds of family during a time when Japan was not as prosperous as it is today. This narrative is inspired by an autobiographical work written by actor and filmmaker Takeshi Kitano.

Tajima resides happily in Tokyo with his wife Keiko, their daughter Mika, and son Ryota. Unfortunately, Keiko is diagnosed with terminal cancer and passes away within three months. Keiko was the light of the family, and her absence creates a void in their hearts. Tajima attempts to continue on as usual, but soon realizes it is futile. Upon his children's suggestion, they visit Kibougaoka, Keiko's hometown, to reminisce about her past. They visit Keiko's old, empty home, and Tajima proposes they move there. Mika and Ryota agree, and the Tajima family begins a new chapter in Kibougaoka.

Mayumi Sato is a homemaker who has been married to Hideaki, a salesperson at a real estate company, for over a decade. Their daughter has been accepted into a middle school, but the family is struggling to afford the tuition fees. To help cover the costs, Mayumi decides to reenter the workforce. Meanwhile, Hideaki seems indifferent to their financial situation and is unhelpful with household chores, causing tension between them. One day, Ayako Nasuda and her husband Taro, who is a teacher at the middle school, visit a show home built by the housing company where Hideaki is employed. Hideaki finds himself drawn to Ayako.

Imanishi Uta and Kujo Misono are cousins who have grown up together since they were children