Asian dramas like
Gou Himetachi No Sengoku

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.

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 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 41st NHK Taiga Drama, titled Toshiie to Matsu, explores the life of Maeda Toshiie during the chaotic Warring States Era. His journey intersects with the renowned generals of Japanese history- Nobunaga, Hideyoshi, and Ieyasu. Through his political acumen and the unwavering support of his devoted wife, Toshiie managed to climb to the second-highest position in the shogunate. He also expanded his territory to include Echizen, Noto, and Kaga.

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)

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 56th historical drama series follows the Ii family's rule over the Totomi region during the Sengoku period. With no male heirs left due to previous conflicts, Naotora Ii, the lord's sole daughter, is set to inherit the title. Despite the challenges ahead, the unwavering support of her long-time betrothed provides Naotora with the strength to persevere.

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.

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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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)

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

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 47th NHK Taiga Drama follows the life of Atsuhime, born in Kagoshima Prefecture, which was known as Satsuma at the time. She married Tokugawa Iesada, the 13th shogun of the Tokugawa shogunate, and rose to the highest rank in Ooku, the inner palace of Edo castle where shogun's relatives lived. After Iesada's death shortly after their wedding, Atsuhime took on the name Tenshoin at 23. She dedicated herself to the Tokugawa clan and the nation during the tumultuous Meiji Restoration, led by individuals from Satsuma. In 1835, Shimazu Tadatake and Oyuki, of the Imaizumi-Shimazu family in the Satsuma clan, welcomed a daughter named Okatsu, who would later become Atsuhime. Growing up as a spirited and compassionate young girl, Okatsu watched as the Satsuma clan underwent financial reforms led by chief retainer Zusho and her father faced consequences for his kindness towards farmers. Unable to understand why her father was punished, Okatsu confronted Zusho.

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

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

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.

The 63rd installment of NHK Taiga Drama focuses on the story of Murasaki Shikibu, a renowned Japanese poet known for her work "Tale of Hikaru Genji"

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

The Tenpo era marks the conclusion of the Edo period. Despite facing financial challenges on a daily basis, Nobu, the humble wife of Katsuie, maintains a cheerful demeanor. In this period, social status does not dictate relationships, and Nobu's kind heart is truly commendable. Katsukichi, my husband, is a skilled marksman with robust arms that are hard to dislike. I cannot help but adore Koiyoshi. Kokichi is supported by his radiance, carefree attitude, wisdom, and drive in facing life's challenges. Meanwhile, their son Rintaro observes his parents with a calm and intelligent demeanor. Inheriting righteousness from his father, Katsu Kaifune, Rintaro is determined to protect the people of Edo, displaying a love that transcends his mother's social standing.

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.

During the Tenpo era at the end of the Edo period, there was a strong focus on reform. Katsuya Kokichi is known for his powerful arms, while his wife Onobu admires them when questioned. Despite facing financial struggles, she maintains a cheerful demeanor. Their son Rintaro is intelligent and ambitious, aiming to study Dutch in order to one day help the people of Edo as "Katsu Kaishu." Interestingly, he has recently developed feelings for a geisha from Fukagawa.

Benzo and Soji are colleagues at a delivery service that is actually a group of thieves known as Akame. They target corrupt individuals and steal their ill-gotten gains. The leader of Akame, Tatsugoro, is highly respected by both Benzo and Soji. When Tatsugoro unexpectedly passes away, he leaves a conflicting message about who should take over Akame. Despite their confusion, Benzo and Soji decide to part ways with Akame and embark on a significant mission.

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)

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.

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.

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 series follows the life of Tokugawa Ieyasu, who was born as Takechiyo on January 31, 1543 and passed away on June 1, 1616

In a different version of feudal Japan, a peculiar illness that affects only men led to a significant decrease in the population, resulting in women taking over the vacant roles and reshaping the societal hierarchy. Now, 80 years after the initial epidemic, with a male to female ratio of 1:4, Japan has transformed into a fully matriarchal community. Women occupy all key political positions, while men serve as their companions. The most influential woman, the leader of the Tokugawa shogunate, is the only one allowed to maintain a group of attractive but unproductive males, referred to as the "Ooku."

The drama portrays the story of Zhang Ju Zheng, a renowned figure during the Ming Dynasty. In the hierarchical society of ancient China, few prime ministers rise to power from modest beginnings like Zhang Ju Zheng. He mentors the young emperor in implementing important changes, but faces opposition to his reforms. As a consequence of his decisions, his family suffers the consequences. His tragic fate serves as a precursor to the decline of the Ming Dynasty.