Asian dramas like
Kibougaoka No Hitobito

Harada Kazumi has been diagnosed with terminal cancer and has been informed that she has a year left to live. In the time remaining, she and her husband Kensuke decide to revisit the neighborhood where they started their life together, unaware of the concept of mortality. During their visit, they not only reminisce about their past but also contemplate their future together. As the inevitable day draws near, they must find a way to cope with loss and move forward with a positive outlook on life.

The plot of this series revolves around the novel "Bakabon no Papa yori Bakana Papa," depicting the daily lives of the writer, her father who is a manga illustrator, and other members of their family.

Nozomi, a Taiwanese woman, is married to Shinji, a Japanese businessman living in Taipei. Their relationship takes a turn when Shinji is required to go back to Japan to manage the family estate. This leads to a conflict between Nozomi and her mother-in-law. (groink)

Thirty-four-year-old Yoshioka Toko was diagnosed with breast cancer two years after giving birth to her second child. Unfortunately, surgery is not an option due to her terminal condition, although her life expectancy remains uncertain. Toko is determined to stay strong for the sake of her son and daughter, despite facing moments of fear and anxiety. Shortly after Toko's diagnosis, her husband Kenichi learns that he has end-stage lung cancer. Despite their limited time left, the Yoshioka family continues to hold onto their dreams, never losing their sense of humor and their love for each other.

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.

Tomikawa Yosuke is wedded to Mizuki. They share a daughter named Shiori and a son named Ko. Yosuke holds the position of general manager in the human resources department of a sizable corporation, whereas his spouse is employed as an educator at a private junior high school. Their daughter is employed as a creator of jewelry and their son is currently seeking employment. Although they may seem like a harmonious family, an unexpected event causes their familial unit to unravel.

Seven years after disappearing, Isoyama Takeshi has returned home and now runs a struggling bakery with his wife Seiko and daughter Nanami. The only bright spot is Nanami's engagement to Shirogane Masaya, the son of a wealthy family. However, Masaya's father disapproves of Isoyama's financial status and wants to end the engagement. One day, Isoyama reconnects with his old friend Kurebayashi, who asks him to deliver something to someone. During a night spent in his car, Isoyama meets Meguro Yuki, who is seeking to escape her father's abuse. To help her, Isoyama pretends they are father and daughter and together they flee Tokyo.

Tenko manages a guesthouse by herself, situated in a wooded area in Nagano abundant with Japanese larch trees

The Tachibana family is at the center of the story, residing in a 2.5-generation household. This unique setup involves parents and their children living together in a two-generation home, with the addition of a single sibling from the younger generation. The decision is made by the Tachibana family to renovate their old residence into a 2.5-generation household. As a result, the 40-year-old protagonist, Masaharu Tachibana, who is unemployed and reclusive, moves in with his sister and her family. Despite being a respected gaming expert in the virtual world, Masaharu encounters difficulties in his new living arrangement. His sister requests his assistance with household tasks, while his teenage niece views him as "weird." Accustomed to living life at his own pace, Masaharu gradually adapts to socializing with others and embracing a more interactive lifestyle in the midst of these changes.

This story follows three generations of women from the Mikuriya family as they ponder the kind of life they want to live and tackle their challenges through saving money. Mikuriya Miho, the second daughter, recently moved out on her own after securing a well-paying job. She had aspirations of being a successful career woman with a loving partner, but a certain incident prompts her to reevaluate her path.

Shimako, an employee at a Tokyo travel agency, has a strong passion for Scandinavia. She resides in a cozy apartment filled with Scandinavian decor, cuisine, music, and various items that transport her to Finland. Unexpectedly, the company's president declares bankruptcy, prompting Shimako to deepen her affection for Finland.

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.

The television series is adapted from a blog authored by Baka Rhythm from 2006 to 2009, in which he assumed the identity of a female office worker named Kakuu Masuno. Masuno, who claimed to be employed at a bank, shared anecdotes about the daily emotions experienced by an office worker and those in her social circle.

Tsukuda Kohei used to lead the development of a space rocket but left the Space and Astronautical Science Agency due to the rocket launch failure. He now manages Tsukuda Manufacturing, a small factory in the historic downtown area. On the other hand, Teikoku Heavy Industries unveiled plans for a homegrown rocket launch during a press event. However, the project hit a snag when Zaizen Michio, the Aerospace Division's chief, discovered that the patent for the crucial engine component technology had already been filed by Tsukuda Manufacturing. In a desperate attempt to secure the patent, Zaizen offered Tsukuda 2 billion yen. But...

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.

Seven years ago, Kazuki passed away when he was only 25 years old, leaving behind his wife Tetsuko and father Gifu. Although they live together as a family, their relationship is unique as Tetsuko is not biologically related to her father-in-law. Tetsuko finds solace in meeting individuals who were connected to her late husband through fate, which helps her overcome the grief of losing a loved one and allows her to move forward in life.

Rika Ikeda, aged 34, engages in a relationship with Sota Kashiwagi, aged 54. Sota, who is married to Mitsuko and has a daughter, is also the director at the company where Rika works. Despite Rika's deep affection for Sota, he ultimately deceives and ends the relationship. Rika encounters Keiichi Ochiai through a blind date, who happens to be a close friend and almost like a younger brother to Sota Kashiwagi. Subsequently, Rika decides to seek revenge.

Isoyama Takeshi, a temporary worker at a company, receives news from his employer that he will remain on a fixed-term contract with no possibility of becoming a permanent staff member. At home, his wife Seiko and 12-year-old daughter Nanami often criticize him. Adding to his troubles, a real estate investment he made secretly ends up with unexpected consequences, leaving him struggling to keep up with mounting interest payments. Encountering a mysterious elderly woman, he hatches a plan to vanish for 7 years in order to be legally declared dead and start anew.

Arimoto Hikari, a 32-year-old woman who is married with a son, visits her father Taizo after he collapses from overworking. The doctor informs Hikari that her father only has 4 days to live. Despite her initial resistance, Hikari decides to take over her father's company as he had originally intended for her. However, she encounters challenges such as her husband traveling to America for work and facing opposition from some employees like Katsumata and Junzo. This story is inspired by Suwa Takako's novel "Machi Koba no Musume."

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.

Kuranaga Haruyuki is employed at the community assistance center in the city hall of Wani no Kuni. Over the past three years, he has been under significant stress and dealing with daily stomach pains. His hardworking, respectful, organized, cautious, and reserved nature often puts him in difficult situations with his colleagues, his boss who is both arrogant and timid, and the demanding citizens he serves. Kuranaga finds solace in venting to his tropical fish companions while enjoying a glass of low-alcohol beer. However, a sudden emergency causes him to finally snap. This triggers his inner sense of justice, prompting him to confront and resolve issues both at work and within his family, leading to a heartwarming resolution.

At 40 years old, Tachibana Yuzuki has recently started working as a guide for mountain climbing. During her initial solo expedition to Mount Myoko and Mount Hiuchi, she encounters three women in her group: Yumi and Ritsuko, who are employed at a department store, and Mitsuko, who works at a welfare facility. Despite facing various challenges and personal issues, these novice climbers attempt to conquer the mountains under the guidance of Kijima, a younger colleague who is more experienced than Yuzuki. Extracted from the book "Yamaonna Nikki" penned by Minato Kanae.

Kohei Tsukuda used to work for the Aerospace and Science Exploration Agency before taking over his father's small factory, Tsukuda Industries. Despite facing challenges in his relationship with his daughter Rina, Tsukuda Industries has seen some improvement in its operations. However, Tsukuda's focus on developing a rocket engine has led to a decline in business. The situation worsens when a major client suddenly decides to stop working with Tsukuda Industries and the company gets sued by a competitor, Nakashima Industries, for patent infringement. This results in damage to Tsukuda Industries' reputation and financial struggles with banks. In the midst of these difficulties, Teikoku Heavy Industries offers to purchase a patent held by Tsukuda Industries for 2 billion yen.

In Ogikubo, Hachimanyama, Chitose Funabashi, Futako Tamagawa, Kaminoge, and Denen Choufu, Loop line 8 passes through these six towns. Despite the close proximity, passengers must transfer trains and take a longer route. In each of these towns, there are women who struggle with unfulfilled love, such as one-sided crushes, domestic abuse, and extramarital affairs. Similar to neighbors taking a detour, their relationships are loosely intertwined. Due to the complex nature of their connections, they only scratch the surface when interacting with each other, leading them to question their personal struggles. Despite their worries and comparisons, they strive to move forward.

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

Satoko Kurihara found contentment in her daily life alongside her husband and their son. Although the son was not biologically theirs, they had embraced him as their own after unsuccessful fertility treatments led them to explore adoption. Asato had become an integral part of their family, bringing Satoko immeasurable joy. However, everything changed when Satoko received a surprising call from Hikari Katakura, who claimed to be Asato's biological mother. This unexpected revelation left Satoko feeling overwhelmed by memories of the past.

Based on the book series "The Incredible Grandmother" by Mariko Hayashi.

Wang Xiao Feng's tranquil existence was disrupted by a sudden and extraordinary journey. This experience lifted him out of his mundane routine and introduced him to a mysterious power that allowed him to traverse different dimensions. The unconventional and innovative "Lele Primary School" captivated Wang Xiao Feng, sparking a newfound sense of joy and wonder within him. As he encountered the eccentric inventions of Dr. Wu Zhi and the unconventional approach of the school's staff, Wang Xiao Feng felt compelled to bridge the gap between his old life and this new, fantastical world. His father, usually preoccupied with work in the "Kuai Kuai World," transformed into a devoted stay-at-home dad in "La La World." Similarly, seemingly ordinary individuals in "La La World" revealed unexpected talents and quirks, such as Ada, who traded her efficient demeanor for a fascination with ants. The once stern principal emerged as a whimsical and optimistic figure in this alternate reality. Amidst these transformations, Wang Xiao Feng's encounter with the enigmatic Xu Wen Wen in Lele World sparked his curiosity and thirst for adventure. This drastic shift from his previous unremarkable existence propelled Wang Xiao Feng into an extraordinary and enchanting journey.

In the spring of 1992, the Makioka family, a prominent family from Osaka Senba, hands over control of their company, bringing an end to a legacy that began almost 300 years ago in the Genroku period. Following this change, the four sisters who had lived a life of luxury must now navigate new paths. The eldest sister, Tsuruko, strives to maintain her pride by cherishing memories of the family's former glory, but faces the harsh realities of the present. Sachiko, the second sister, finds contentment in her kind husband, yet struggles with the unpredictable behaviors of her younger siblings. Yukiko, the third sister, is pressured to find a suitable marriage partner despite her tendency to focus on people's flaws during matchmaking sessions. Taeko, the youngest sister, rebels against the family's rules and embraces her free-spirited nature, engaging in numerous romantic relationships. One fateful night, Taeko is caught in a typhoon that strikes the Kansai region, setting in motion a series of events that will shape the destinies of the four sisters. This narrative is based on Tanizaki Junichiro's novel "Sasameyuki."

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.

"Revitalizing Our Community" is a social drama set in a small town in Osaka, Japan. The local government is facing a financial crisis, with severely limited funds. They must decide which government sectors to reduce funding for and which to prioritize in order to sustain their town.

A noodle shop owner struggling with debt and his incredibly resourceful wife are facing financial difficulties while trying to support their five children. Despite their limited funds, they rely on humor and clever problem-solving to make ends meet. (JDorama)

Yu Yang, a well-respected former school principal, has a strong love for traditional Chinese culture and values family above all else. His oldest child, Jack Wu, earned a degree in journalism and now works as an editor for a magazine. Jack is known for his inquisitive nature and occasionally disagrees with his father on social matters. With a 40-year age gap, Yu Yang and his daughter, Zoie Tam, struggle to connect due to their differing perspectives shaped by different generations. Yu Yang also finds it challenging to adapt to the fast-paced changes brought by modern technology. Luckily, his daughter-in-law, Elaine Yiu, effectively manages the household as a devoted mother and wife. As their son grows, the family faces tough decisions regarding his education, leading to heightened emotions for all involved. The show delves into key issues affecting Hong Kong residents, such as education, housing, an aging population, youth competitiveness, Mainland China relations, and immigration trends. Through each episode, the series realistically portrays these challenges, striking a chord with viewers.

Three women, each at a different point in their lives, are looking to start fresh in a new country for various personal reasons. Faye, who got married young, recently discovered her husband's infidelity. Seeking a change of scenery, she pays a visit to her closest friend in Taipei with the intention of finding a new partner to settle down with. Meanwhile, Lydia and Leo, a married couple who were both successful in their careers, decided to leave their high-paying jobs in Hong Kong and relocate to Green Island to manage a hotel. Despite their initial admiration for the laid-back lifestyle on the island, they face challenges as Lydia's perfectionism clashes with the business setbacks caused by the pandemic, leading to tensions with local partners and conflicts with Leo. Lastly, Yvonne, an art teacher working on a temporary basis in Taipei, receives news that her contract will not be renewed. Worried about readjusting to the fast-paced life in Hong Kong, she is determined to find a way to stay in Taiwan with the help of her colleagues Shun Wan and Yu Shan. However, Yvonne must confront her true motivations for wanting to remain in Taiwan.

Kami Daisuke serves as the primary aide to influential parliamentarian Tojo Yuji. His aspiration is to enter politics and bring about change in Japan, with Tojo serving as his role model for an honest politician. Despite his busy schedule, Daisuke's wife Kumiko remains supportive of his ambitions. One day, Daisuke is shocked to discover a memo supposedly signed by him indicating acceptance of a 50 million payment from a construction firm. Tojo, believing Daisuke betrayed him by taking a bribe, distances himself from Daisuke who now faces scrutiny from both law enforcement and the media.

Yakushimaru Hiroko portrays Nanami, a 35-year-old woman who is navigating her desires and needs, such as finding a job, improving her relationship with her mother-in-law, and securing good schools for her children. She resides in a Tokyo suburb with her husband Wataru and their three young kids. When Wataru's father proposes that they move in with him and his wife to save money, Nanami reluctantly agrees, hoping that her mother-in-law can help care for the children while she seeks employment. Unbeknownst to her, this decision will bring about a host of unexpected challenges.

After losing her mother, a high school student named Marimo embarks on a journey to meet her estranged father, Shinpei, whom she had never known. To her surprise, Shinpei turns out to be a 38-year-old aspiring private detective, very different from the father she had imagined. Despite initial disbelief, Shinpei eventually accepts Marimo as his daughter after seeing the necessary documents. As they navigate their newfound relationship, Marimo labels Shinpei as "The worst father in the world" while Shinpei mourns the loss of his freedom. Together, they discover the challenges and rewards of building a father-daughter bond.

The central theme of this television series revolves around the connections between parents and children, as well as between spouses. It delves into the complexities of love, the essence of life, and the pursuit of genuine happiness. The protagonist is taken by surprise when his wife suddenly expresses her desire for a divorce, despite his belief that he was a devoted husband. Without providing a reason, she packs her things and leaves, leaving behind their 7-year-old daughter. This leaves the man to navigate life as a single parent to Rin, their daughter, amidst an uncomfortable atmosphere at home. Struggling with unfamiliar household responsibilities and the care of Rin, Tetsuro grapples with feelings of anger and stress, all while being unsure of his daughter's emotional state.

Hiraki Asuka has been given a terminal cancer diagnosis with only three months to live. She decides to reconnect with her daughter and ex-husband, whom she had previously left behind, in order to make the most of her remaining time and rekindle their relationships.