Asian dramas like
Kikujiro To Saki

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

Miyuki, a 34-year-old Japanese homemaker, lives with her husband who works as a salaryman and their son. Despite feeling like her dream has come true, she secretly grapples with the realization that her life depends entirely on her husband. On the other hand, her childhood friend Sumiko, a single woman who was recently promoted to a managerial position at a large company, enjoys a high salary and independence but struggles with loneliness. Meanwhile, Yu, who is approaching thirty, still lives with her father and relies on him for support. Feeling lost and unsure of her aspirations, Yu is uncertain about her future. When Miyuki encounters an elderly woman she is caring for as part of her part-time job, the woman unexpectedly leaves her a beach house upon her passing. It turns out that the elderly woman was Yu's grandmother. Initially unsure of what to do with the property, Miyuki ultimately decides, with encouragement from Sumiko whom she reconnects with after two decades, to turn it into a business venture. As Sumiko and Yu also become involved as partners, tensions arise as each of them has conflicting ideas for the beach house.

Hikari is responsible for looking after her ailing mother and two younger siblings. They receive the news that their father, who had been missing, has passed away and left them with a significant debt of 10 million yen. The family, already struggling financially, is left with no money or food. In order to repay the debt, Hikari secures a job as a cleaner at UBS TV company. Meanwhile, Masako Nagai, a drama producer at UBS TV, faces challenges at work due to sexist colleagues. After a chance encounter at UBS, Masako recognizes Hikari's creative talents and hires her as an assistant producer, despite facing opposition from her coworkers. Hikari is motivated by the opportunity to provide for her family and pay off her father's debt, while Masako aims to earn respect at UBS by excelling in her role as a drama producer.

The story follows Takano, a short man who works as a professional locksmith, and a tall woman he meets in Bangkok named Eiko Kosaka. Despite being a foot taller than him, Takano falls for Eiko but keeps his feelings hidden due to his height insecurities. Their paths cross again in Tokyo, leading to the development of mutual feelings between them. The plot is adapted from the newspaper novel "Kimi wo Miagete" by Yamada Taichi.

In the novel "Akumu no Drive" by Kinoshita Hanta, a retired professional boxer and a failed comedian join forces to establish a transportation company. Initially, they acquire a vehicle and employ it to outsmart their adversaries.

Kinami has been chosen to portray the role of Hita Nanase, a housemaid who possesses the supernatural gift of telepathy, enabling her to unveil the hidden truths within the households she serves. The character was formerly portrayed by Takigawa Yumi and Hori Chiemi.

The Isawas are a typical Japanese family living in Tokyo. Yasuhiko and Yukari are a married couple who run a restaurant called Isawaya in the historic downtown area. Despite their differences, they are a content pair. However, the arrival of Takagi Rui, the girlfriend of their eldest son Haruhiko, and Yukari's long-lost mother Mimatsu Hanae, who has been estranged since divorcing her husband, bring to light a hidden secret within this multi-generational family, putting their family bonds to the test.

After Nagashima Daigo and Aya's three sons got married and moved out, Aya decided to renovate the kitchen and living room to open up Cafe Restaurant Aya. The restaurant has been successful, with Daigo also pitching in whenever he can. As former employees Uchida Yoko, Otake Noboru, and Nakatsu Eri moved on, Aya welcomed Nakano Kyoko, a unemployed graduate with an attitude, and Togawa Tatsu, a customer in need. Despite their challenges, Tatsu proves to be a skilled cook and great with customers, much to Aya's relief. Things take a turn when Noboru shows up with his dropout junior, Okumura Ryo, who is struggling to find his way. Ryo's unconventional appearance and behavior at the restaurant come as a shock to Aya and the rest of the staff. The Nagashima family is once again facing challenges with their new employees.

Located in Kamakura, in Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan, the story revolves around five siblings, with the eldest being Asa, each dealing with their own challenges. Upon returning to Japan from Italy, their 60-year-old mother Fuko brings her bright and grandiose personality back into their lives. Despite facing disagreements with Fuko, the mother ultimately guides her five children towards a fresh start.

Drawing inspiration from Hideo Aiba's novel "Chi no Wadachi."

Yayoi, a licensed nurse at Hoshimigaoka Hospital, harbors a hidden past that she keeps to herself. Abandoned by her parents at a young age, she grew up in foster care, cherishing the hospital as her home. Despite her loneliness, she remains kind-hearted, avoiding conflict and immersing herself in her work. When Todo joins as the new head nurse, Yayoi initially resists her strong-willed approach but eventually finds herself drawn to Todo's presence. With Todo's influence, Yayoi is able to let go of her past and embrace a new beginning on her own terms.

Umeda Mina, a talented pianist, comes from a family with a renowned conductor as her father. Her goal is to win a prestigious international piano competition, despite facing numerous obstacles along the way. At 35 years old, this competition marks her final opportunity to achieve her dream. Mina has been married to her husband, Shinji, for a decade, yet they have been unable to have children. One day, a neglected boy with a stoic demeanor intrudes into their yard. After discovering the boy's abusive past, he is placed in a care facility. However, he reappears in their garden a few days later. Feeling a sense of destiny, Shinji begins researching child adoption in secret, believing the boy's return to be fateful.

Natsuko Kotani seemed destined for deceit, while Tetsuko Ishida was a distant family member known for her integrity as a lawyer. Whenever Natsuko caused problems, Tetsuko was always called upon to resolve the situations. Feeling exploited by Natsuko, Tetsuko, who led a mundane life, started to undergo a transformation.

The play explores the conflicts and significance within a family as experienced from a child's perspective.

A theatrical piece that delves into the essence of family, examining the unwavering commitment and enduring affection parents hold for their children, who remain perpetually unsatisfied yet continually yearning for additional fulfillment.

The play illustrates the experiences of individuals caring for an abandoned infant collectively in a countryside community located in Paju.

Individuals who have chosen an entirely unique route for forming connections and relationships often develop bonds that can be more profound than those found within family. Two distinct individuals start to share their journeys together as they navigate the final stages of life. (HanCinema)

A three-part drama commemorating the launch of the general service channel, Chosun TV.

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.

Set in 1955, a decade after the end of World War II, the story follows government officials at the Ministry of International Trade and Industry (now known as the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry) as they work towards making Japan as prosperous as the western world. The plot centers on Kazakoshi Shingo, also known as "Mr. Ministry of International Trade and Industry", and explores the conflict between the "industry supporters" advocating for the protection of national industry, and the "trade supporters" pushing for free trade to globalize the country. The drama received accolades at the 62nd Television Drama Academy Awards, with Sakai Masato winning Best Supporting Actor and Hirano Shunichi, Oka Susumu, and Matsuda Ayato winning Best Directors. (source: d-addicts)

After her adoptive mother, Atsuta Otomi, passed away, Endo Yuriko decides to return to her family home. She is not coming back out of concern for her father, Ryohei, who has been struggling since his wife's death. Yuriko has made the difficult decision to divorce her husband, Hiroyuki. However, upon her return, a young woman named Imoto Sachie appears at the house, claiming to have been sent by Otomi to assist with household chores until the 49th day. Sachie also reveals Otomi's wish for a celebratory feast rather than a traditional Buddhist memorial service on her 49th day. Initially hesitant, father and daughter eventually warm up to the idea after discovering a recipe left behind by Otomi.

Harashima Manji holds a typical position as a section chief at a small to medium-sized business that serves as a subcontractor for a prominent electronics company. Upon stumbling upon irregularities in a string of personnel shifts, he becomes entangled in a battle against a formidable adversary.

One day, Fujimaki Daisuke, a mundane middle-aged office worker at a trading company, is instructed to temporarily join the cheering squad at Asunaro University instead of facing a layoff. The company president's alma mater's cheering squad is at risk of disbandment. During a meeting with alumni, Fujimaki is appointed as the head of the cheering squad. He is thrust into this new role, learning the traditional customs such as always wearing the school uniform, saying "Ossu" in response, and following the seniors' instructions. Under the guidance of old boy Saito Yuichi, Fujimaki becomes captivated by the profound philosophy of providing support in a tangible way.

In Kabukicho, Tokyo, a hit-and-run incident takes place. Hamamoto Junpei, a bartender who witnessed the accident, discovers that the man arrested is not the same person he saw at the scene. It appears that the true culprit is internationally renowned cellist Minato Keiji, with his brother taking the blame. Seeking a quick profit, Junpei and Tomoki, a host he considers a younger brother, decide to extort Minato. However, Minato's manager Yuko intervenes, causing Junpei to back down in the face of her authority. On the flip side, Yuko becomes intrigued by Junpei's personality. Junpei is someone universally liked and impossible to despise. Soon, a formidable adversary of Yuko's appears unexpectedly. This chance encounter between individuals from different worlds draws in those around them: Minato; Mizuki, a hostess who followed Tomoki to Tokyo; Miki, the owner of the Korean club where Junpei is employed; Kosaka, Miki's former gangster boyfriend; and Tomoka, Minato's niece who is studying art at university. An upheaval that will reverberate throughout Japan is on the horizon.

Kanoko Saho loses her job at her father's company, Fawn, despite her dedication to the manufacturing industry. The dismissal appears to be influenced by a mysterious figure known as a "headhunter". Watari Kaori, who identifies as a headhunter, approaches Saho with an opportunity. Consequently, Saho joins the headhunting firm "Forteflows" alongside Watari. Saho now faces clients directly as a dark cloud looms over Fawn.

Kano Teppei, a medical sales representative, has been leading a simple life. However, his world is turned upside down when he discovers that his wife has been concealing a 4.8 billion yen (~45.7M USD) inheritance from her grandmother that she received 24 years ago. As Teppei navigates challenges at work, he reflects on their marriage. This story is inspired by Shiraishi Kazufumi's novel with the same title.

Shimura Eriko, a successful professional, is employed by a large trading company where she holds a position equal to that of her male colleagues. Despite her beauty and impressive education, Eriko's only major concern is her lack of female friends. She finds solace in reading a popular journal written by a housewife influencer her age on social media. One day, Eriko crosses paths with Maruo Shoko, the author of the diary, who also resides nearby and shares her struggle of not having female friends. Their commonality leads to a quick and close friendship, but a certain incident causes their relationship to take an unexpected turn. (Jdramas.wordpress.com)

Kikuchi Izumi is a 38-year-old editor and food writer who is employed at a small publishing house. She has not been in contact with her long-term partner for the past 5 months, ever since lending him 2 million yen. One day, out of the blue, she receives a phone call from an elderly woman who proceeds to berate her. To Izumi's surprise, the same woman ends up sharing a cab with her, and they are both headed to the same destination. Through their conversation, Izumi discovers that the woman is Nakajima Haruko, the esteemed owner of a renowned beauty clinic in Tokyo.

Set in the Nagahara branch of Tokyo Daiichi Bank, the narrative unfolds within a small branch catering to small, medium, and micro enterprises. The team comprises Masahiro Nishiki, a demoted assistant manager, a diligent employee supporting his family, a cunning branch manager, a performance-driven assistant manager willing to resort to harassment, and a skilled operations ace, each with their own distinct personalities and challenges. When one million yen mysteriously disappears from the branch, suspicions fall on a female employee, while Nishiki, tasked with investigating the incident, unexpectedly vanishes. As the two mysteries intertwine, the truth behind the cash loss and Nishiki's disappearance gradually come to light. Discover the shocking revelations behind the "fraud" and Nishiki's enigmatic absence in this captivating tale.

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.

Derived from the tale of Okuni.