Asian dramas like
Hanbun Aoi

Kawahara Kimiko, the oldest of three sisters, was born in Osaka in 1937. When she was nine years old, her family relocated to Shigaraki in Shiga Prefecture. Surrounded by the local Shigaraki pottery, Kimiko developed a passion for ceramics and aspired to become a ceramics artist. Despite the challenges she faced as a woman in a male-dominated industry, she persevered and built a groundbreaking career in ceramic arts, from her early years to her marriage.

The narrative focuses on the experiences of a married couple, as narrated by Mura. (Tokyograph) Based on the memoir "Gegege no Nyobo" penned by Mura Nunoe, the spouse of manga artist Mizuki Shigeru. Presented as the 82nd NHK Asadora.

Sumire, a girl born in the affluent area of Kobe during the early Showa era, dedicated herself to creating children's clothing as a means of livelihood following the destruction of war. Eventually, she went on to open the first children's goods store in Japan.

Cheng Yue Liang, a man with autism, is saved by his stepmother in a crucial accident after his father dies during the war with Japan in the 1940s. The narrative explores their tumultuous lives and close familial bond. The drama features acclaimed screenwriter Cheung Wah Biu, known for works like 'Moonlight Resonance', 'Rosy Business', 'No Regrets', and the 80s trilogy 'The Legend of the Condor Heroes'.

Is it possible for two childhood friends to be compelled into marriage if they are unable to find other appropriate partners? Pei Zheng Xi and Mo Cheng Zhen have been lifelong friends, with their mothers also sharing a close bond. Despite their mothers' hopes for them to wed, Zheng Xi and Cheng Zhen only see each other as friends, lacking any romantic connection. However, their mothers have decided that if they fail to secure suitable spouses by their 32nd birthdays, Zheng Xi and Cheng Zhen will be wedded to each other. With just one day left, who will Zheng Xi and Cheng Zhen end up marrying?

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.

What are the desires of women in their thirties? They aspire to maintain their integrity and not settle for less in life

Upon arriving in Gao Shangping, the charming 18-year-old Qiu Hong quickly captured the attention of everyone in the village. The longstanding discord among the three prominent families of Qin, Ling, and Huang escalated as they vied for Qiu Hong's affections. When the Japanese invaders descended upon the village, the three families set aside their feuds to unite against a common enemy. Together, they successfully defeated the Japanese forces, reducing them to ashes in a fiery battle. However, once the Anti-Japanese War was won, the three families resumed their internal conflicts, reigniting old rivalries.

Yatabe Mineko, a 17-year-old girl, was raised in a family of seven in a mountain village located in northeastern Ibaraki Prefecture. Her father, Minoru, left for Tokyo to seek employment and earn extra income, but failed to return for the New Year. Determined to find him, Mineko convinces her family to allow her to go to Tokyo and promises to send money back home. In the autumn of 1964, Mineko, along with her childhood friends Tokiko and Mitsuo, secures jobs at a small factory in a working-class neighborhood of Tokyo. Despite facing challenges and moments of disappointment in her search for her father, Mineko starts to build a life in Tokyo through various encounters with locals, friends, and colleagues. The question remains: will she succeed in reuniting with her father?

The NHK Asadora Renzoku Drama titled Churasan tells the story of Kohagura Eri, a young woman born on Kohamajima Island in Okinawa on May 15, 1972, the day Okinawa was returned to Japan from the U.S. When Kamimura Shizuko and her two sons, Kazuya and Fumiya, visit Eri's family's small inn, they are warmly welcomed by her fun-loving yet quirky family. Eri is surprised to learn that Kazuya is terminally ill, prompting Shizuko and her sons to spend their final days together in the beautiful Okinawan nature. After Kazuya's passing, Fumiya and Eri make a promise to marry in the future. Eventually, Fumiya and his mother leave the island to return to Tokyo. Years later, Eri works as a nurse and Fumiya as a doctor at the same hospital in Tokyo, where they are reunited.

The 67th NHK Asadora Drama follows the story of Manten, a young woman who grew up on a small island in southern Japan surrounded by nature. Inspired by her father, who disappeared at sea when she was eight years old, Manten holds onto his dream of space exploration. At eighteen, Manten faces pressure from her mother to decide on a career path or start paying rent, while also dealing with a declaration of love from a childhood friend. Despite these challenges, Manten remains determined to pursue her dream of joining Japan's National Space Development Agency, NASDA. However, she realizes that achieving this goal will require hard work and dedication, including obtaining a college education and gaining three years of experience in the field. As Manten navigates the complexities of life and love, she remains steadfast in her pursuit of space travel, making unlikely friendships along the way.

Is a young woman able to find the bravery to approach a former high school crush? Xia Man Li was always well-liked in school and considered the most beautiful girl in her high school, yet she has never had luck in love. At a high school reunion, she reunites with Zhao Li Qi, a kind guy she once had feelings for. Man Li's younger sister, Xia ManAn, also harbors a childhood crush on Zhen Ying Jie, but despite her attempts to get close to him, he always appears to be involved with someone else. Ten years later, will the sisters be able to summon the courage to follow their hearts?

The show follows the turbulent journey of a girl named Qi Mei, born in the Year of the Sheep. Tragedy strikes when her second sister drowns and her third sister disappears, leading her father to blame Qi Mei for it all. Despite facing abandonment and hardships due to societal norms and emotional betrayals, Qi Mei endures and perseveres in her quest for a fulfilling life and happiness.

The narrative follows Yang Tao, a 30-year-old who is opposed to the idea of marriage. Guo Ran, a civil servant, shares the same sentiment towards marriage. Initially, the two clash due to a misunderstanding but eventually their bond strengthens. Despite their growing relationship, their parents disapprove of each other, posing a significant challenge. Can their love triumph over this obstacle?

The narrative centers around Lu Xiao Nan (played by Tina Tang), an independent woman who harbors a fear of marriage due to the complexities involved in merging two lives and families. However, she meets Kevin (portrayed by William Chan), a university professor who is unfettered by familial ties and possesses a warm and adaptable nature. Despite her initial reservations, Xiao Nan marries Kevin and supports him in his quest to reconnect with his estranged family. As they navigate the challenges of blending into his family, Xiao Nan finds solace and purpose with the help of her supportive husband. Meanwhile, Kevin unravels the mysteries surrounding his childhood amnesia. The series is available in two versions: 66 episodes lasting 35-55 minutes each for TV viewing, or 70 episodes of 45 minutes each for DVD watching.

The narrative follows the journey of two elderly friends who find solace in each other as they navigate the challenges of letting go of earthly concerns. Through the eyes of Gu Jia Yi, we gain insight into the lives and hardships faced by her mother and her mother's companions.

The story revolves around five elderly women residing on the same street who are brought together by a scam. Through shared experiences of joy and sorrow, they form a deep bond while seeking new purpose in their lives. Each woman, with her own unique background and personality, navigates the challenges of aging. Mei Yi, who runs a cafe, grapples with the loss of her son. The arrival of a new waitress, Xiao Xue, brings unexpected changes to her life. Teacher Song maintains a busy schedule, occasionally causing trouble for her daughter. Liu Da Fu's efforts to improve her son's life backfire, leading to his unhappiness. Hong Jie, a local resident, worries most about her children despite having everything she needs. Ai Lin, admired for her beauty, experiences profound loneliness. Their paths cross at a 'health lecture,' and as they unite to outsmart scammers, they form lasting friendships.

Three individuals are brought together unexpectedly when a young child enters their lives, adding to the chaos they are already facing. Gao Han, a caring and devoted man, has recently lost a custody battle with his ex-wife over their daughter. Adding to his troubles, his ex-girlfriend Guan Ling Ling, who passed away in a car accident, has entrusted her son to his care. Gao Han, along with his two roommates Wang Dong Yang and YuBo, find themselves unexpectedly caring for the young child, Du Du. Along with the challenges of looking after Du Du, they also have to navigate the presence of Du Du's aunt, Guan Shan Shan. As they all work together to raise Du Du, they must also confront the question of the child's paternity. This leads to a custody battle, complicated further by the return of Han's ex-wife, Liu Min. Amidst all this, feelings begin to develop between Han and Shan Shan, while Yu Bo also finds himself falling for Shan Shan. With the uncle's gentle nature and the cool guy's charm, Shan Shan must ultimately follow her heart and make a choice between the two men she loves.

Ten episodes featuring a consistent cast, each presenting a unique storyline centered around various types of love relationships such as heterosexual, familial, LGBTQ+, and platonic.

"When faced with challenges, Father always offers a comforting smile and a helping hand, reassuring his son that he will be there. Man Tin Chi, a top market research manager known for his expertise in price comparison, lives by the motto of being price-conscious. Despite his desire for early retirement, Chi's dreams are disrupted by the unexpected return of his eight-year-old son. With no experience in caring for children, Chi is at a loss on how to raise his son. Fortunately, his rival Amy Kam Mei-Tsun steps in to support and guide him. As they spend more time together, Chi and Amy develop a strong friendship. Chi reconnects with his godfather Ko Chi Tim and begins to unravel a long-held secret. Meanwhile, Ko Ching, Tim's son, struggles to balance his responsibilities towards his daughter and his neglect towards his father. In the midst of turmoil, Ching finds support from Chi and his girlfriend Joey Law Sei Hei, ultimately uncovering a hidden truth about his father."

The 62nd NHK Asadora Drama titled Watashi no Aozora is set in Oma-cho, Aomori and Chuo-ku, Tokyo. The series follows the journey of Kitayama Nazuna, a young mother, and her son Taiyo from Ohma, a small town in Aomori. Taiyo's father, Murai Kento, had dreams of becoming a professional boxer but had to give up due to a detached retina. Unaware of Nazuna's pregnancy, Kento left for America with another woman for eye treatment. After a successful operation, he returned to boxing but faced challenges in achieving success. Meanwhile, Nazuna gave birth to Taiyo and moved to Tokyo in search of Kento. Their paths cross by chance, leading Kento to try to reconnect with his newfound family. The series delves into their journey as they navigate the complexities of forming a family together.

The 81st NHK Asadora introduces a new series titled Welkame. The plot follows Nami, a young woman who grew up in a minshuku. After moving to Tokyo for a job at a magazine company, she unexpectedly loses her position and is forced to return to her hometown, where she must navigate relationships with her family and old friends.

Ayaka Miyata is employed at a company that produces stationery and is set to marry her coworker, Yuichi Hiyama. Despite this, she is hesitant to share the news with her mother, Harumi. Ayaka and Harumi have been estranged since a major disagreement they had when Ayaka was 20 years old. Harumi has always kept the identity of Ayaka's father a secret since she was a child. One day, Yuichi urges Ayaka to inform her mother, which leads to Harumi visiting the company the following day to evaluate whether Yuichi is a suitable partner. During the meeting, Yuichi and Harumi hit it off and she agrees to attend the wedding dress fitting. Unfortunately, on the day of the fitting, Harumi is rushed to the hospital after suffering from a sudden brain hemorrhage. Despite three months passing, she remains unconscious. Meanwhile, Ayaka discovers her mother's living will from a nurse, revealing that she had been exchanging diaries with her high school classmates. Using the diary as a guide, Ayaka travels to Kaga City in Ishikawa Prefecture, her mother's hometown. The revelations in the diary, filled with both lies and harsh truths, ultimately lead Ayaka to find true happiness.

Born on the same day, Lee Eun Hee and Lee Keum Hee find themselves living as sisters despite their twisted fate. Eun Hee, a kind and selfless girl, sacrifices her own educational opportunities to support her older sister Keum Hee in their impoverished family. Unbeknownst to Eun Hee, their lives take a dramatic turn when a wealthy man arrives at their home claiming one of them as his long-lost granddaughter. Tragically, due to a misunderstanding caused by their mother's grief over her husband's death, the real granddaughter is left to face a life of hardship while the imposter is taken into a life of luxury.

The narrative follows the lives of Liu Su Zhen, Wang Guo Sheng, and Zhou Hong Wei, who were classmates during their middle school years in the early 1980s. Wang Guo Sheng and Zhou Hong Wei share a close friendship, but they both develop feelings for Liu Su Zhen. The plot unfolds with a sequence of events that occur after Liu Su Zhen unintentionally marries Wang Guo Sheng.

The narrative follows a varied ensemble of young professionals, comprising an event planner, a chef, a webtoon creator, a fashion designer, an interior decorator, and a classical vocalist, as they pursue their aspirations and seek romantic relationships.

Zuo Zai Jun and Zheng Lei were close friends and classmates in college. They share an 8-year-old step-daughter named Miao Miao. Miao Miao's mother, Ning Xiao Meng, was the woman of their dreams back in their university days. She disappeared to study in the United States 8 years ago and has now returned to Shanghai. Zai Jun struggles to accept her, but Xiao Meng works to mend their relationship. As Xiao Meng grows closer to Zheng Lei, it creates tension between the two men as they compete for her affection, leading to humorous situations. Over time, Xiao Meng's secrets about Miao Miao's birth and her disappearance come to light.

Xiao Yan, a strong and independent woman in the workplace, is determined to advance to a senior position at Thea Group and establish a new makeup brand. Due to her exceptional performance, she was tasked with overseeing the maternal and child sector for better prospects. This presented a significant challenge for Xiao Yan, who believed in self-love and prioritized a dual-income-no-kids lifestyle. With the assistance of You Ya, a full-time mother and her girlfriend, Xiao Yan began to understand the challenges and sacrifices of motherhood, leading to a transformation in You Ya's personality from dependency to independence. As Xiao Yan focused on the maternal and infant project, her competitor Chen Jiao Rui had to leave due to pregnancy. Upon returning to work after giving birth, Chen Jiao Rui struggled to balance her family and career, feeling overwhelmed. Xiao Yan stepped in to help Chen Jiao Rui regain her confidence and realize the selfless and genuine love she had for her children. Through this experience, Xiao Yan also underwent a transformation from self-love to embracing love for family and friends, respecting mothers, and cherishing children, ultimately learning the true meaning of empathy and genuine love. In the end, the three women, each with their own strengths and determination, came together to embark on a business venture, supporting and inspiring each other as they navigated the challenges and joys of life.

The narrative follows Tenka, a 17-year-old girl born and raised in Sendai, Miyagi prefecture. When her father changes jobs, her family relocates to Tokyo. Tenka stays briefly with her grandfather, a passionate rice farmer residing at Igune, a forest surrounded by vast rice fields in the Sendai plains. Upon completing high school, she moves to Kichijyoji in Tokyo to live with her family in a residence situated on the grounds of a temple owned by her grandfather's longtime friend, Suzuki Shozo. Also on the property is a small nursery school operated by Shozo's wife, Yoshiko. Tenka begins to contemplate a career as a pediatric nurse. Over time, it is revealed that Tenka's family and the Suzuki Shozo family have a deep-rooted connection spanning generations. Tenka discovers that she is betrothed to Shozo's grandson, Ryunosuke, as per an agreement between her grandfather and Shozo. (DramaWiki) Notable locations in the story include Sendai, Miyagi and Musashino, Tokyo.

Wang Dan Dan and Luo Jia He were raised as siblings despite having different biological parents. They never considered themselves anything other than family. However, as they both began discussing relationships and marriage with other people, they came to realize that their feelings for each other went beyond sibling affection.

Taking place in 1998, the plot revolves around a circle of friends who unite, experience love, and navigate various facets of life. This drama is yet another creation by Ruby Lin.

The narrative focuses on two girls along with their boyfriends. They must contend with witnessing their girlfriends' anger in various scenarios.

The novel depicts a year in the life of Giddens Ko that felt more like a dramatic film than reality. Within this year, he experienced both extreme joy and profound sadness. This was the same year he received the prestigious Best Writer award, but it was also the year his mother was diagnosed with a serious illness, acute myeloid leukemia. As the men in the family navigated the complexities of the healthcare system, endured the grueling chemotherapy treatments, and faced overwhelming medical bills, they also dealt with significant developments in their personal lives. His older brother got married, his younger brother started a new relationship, and his own long-term girlfriend ended their romance.

Taking place in 1947, the story revolves around a trio consisting of a shop owner, his spouse, and a young lady on a mission to heal her father. Yan Zheng Sheng manages a pickle shop in Beijing and assumes the responsibility of caring for his uncle after his brother and nephew tragically pass away. To fulfill his duties as a son and ensure the family legacy, Yan Zheng Sheng marries Mu Chun Hua as his second wife while already being wed to Lin Cui Qing. Their relationship blossoms over time, but in 1950, they are compelled to divorce due to the implementation of the New Marriage Law. Despite this, Yan Zheng Sheng, Mu Chun Hua, and Lin Cui Qing navigate the following decades as a united family. This narrative sheds light on the lives of everyday individuals residing in Sesame Alley.

Yamanaka Konoha, an 18-year-old girl from the rural Kumano area of Wakayama prefecture, comes from a family that relies on forestry for their livelihood. Konoha's mother, Senri, is a teacher of traditional farming methods and local history to tourists, while her father, Ichiro, dreams of opening a restaurant in Osaka. Konoha was raised in the forested hills by her grandfather, Sadamichi, who taught her ranger skills and meditation techniques. With a natural talent for tasting food, Konoha decides to pursue a career as a chef after her grandmother's passing. She joins her father in leaving Kumano for Osaka, where she plans to learn the art of cooking while Ichiro works towards opening his own restaurant.

Originally constructed as a symbol of love, the Dream Lock Building now serves as a confinement for disillusioned young women and shattered aspirations. Once a sanctuary for lovers, the building has transformed into a prison for women seeking matrimony. The town has been overtaken by widows left heartbroken and dreams of a blissful life shattered. However, the arrival of a Shanghai dancer threatens to disrupt the lives of the town's residents, stirring up chaos among the men, children, and their sense of pride. Suo Meng Lou is a Chinese drama from 2013 with a version containing 17 episodes.

This year's drama resonated with Chinese audiences, focusing on themes such as housing prices, love, and marriage. The storyline revolved around a group of young individuals striving to achieve their dreams despite facing harsh realities. Ma Xiaodong, born in the 1980s, faced challenges after getting married and securing a bank loan to buy a house without informing his girlfriend, leading to a series of unfortunate events. Meanwhile, Liang Meili, a white-collar worker, struggled to sell an apartment to support her family amid financial difficulties. Through ups and downs, the characters navigated through work-related issues, personal differences, and parental expectations, all while seeking love, stability, and a place to call home. Ultimately, their perseverance and mutual support helped them overcome obstacles and find happiness in creating a warm and loving home.

Divided into two sections, the initial segment is known as Ai Shan Liang with 33 episodes, while the latter part is titled Shan Liang Ai with 37 episodes. Pearl, also known as Zhen Zhu, was brought up by her grandmother after her mother abandoned her to marry a prosperous doctor. Her aspiration is to excel as a clothing designer, and she puts in a great deal of effort to make her dream come true. She falls in love with wealthy "Fu Er Dai" He Zhi Wei, and after overcoming numerous challenges posed by their families, they tie the knot. Zhen Zhu becomes pregnant, but tragically, Zhi Wei is involved in an accident, leaving her widowed and pregnant. Five years later, Zhen Zhu is looking after her child and her late husband's family. To support them, she secures a position at a clothing design firm. Through her determination and kindness, Zhen Zhu touches the lives of those around her and gradually moves closer to realizing her dream as a clothing designer.

The narrative follows three young women navigating life in a bustling city, experiencing various stages of growth and development together.

After years of constant arguments and dissatisfaction, Tian Lan and Zhan Peng decided to end their marriage and pursue separate paths. They both found new partners and began to enjoy the happiness of being in a loving relationship. However, the well-being of their daughter has posed a challenge for their new partners. Will they reconcile to fulfill their daughter's desire for a united family or work together to address the issue appropriately?

Former college friends, now grown adults with varying paths in life, find themselves at a crossroads when their friendship is put to the test. Du Jian Feng, born into a humble family, excels in mathematics and is known for his reserved nature and strong principles. Zhao Hai Peng, on the other hand, is a wealthy and charming business elite with a romantic side. Lastly, High, a dreamer with a realistic outlook, is a self-centered egoist and the owner of a trading company.

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.

A contemporary family saga unfolds, portraying the individual struggles and concerns of each household member

A theatrical piece that explores the diverse individuals connected to a rural agricultural community.