Asian dramas like
Kisetsu No Nai Machi

A local video store recently discovered a collection of 68 films on a video cassette. These films depict the lives of 11 individuals ranging from teenagers to young adults as they navigate modern society. The collection offers a unique glimpse into their daily experiences through a series of video diaries.

Nao-chan, Kinbe, and Yamacho are all in the fifth grade at their elementary school. Although they are in different classes, they decided to reunite and spend time together before summer vacation. During their get-together at Nao-chan's house, she brings up their old classmate Tetsuchin, who had moved to Fukushima two years ago. Tetsuchin's promise to reunite in two years is nearing its deadline. Despite this, Nao-chan unexpectedly suggests visiting Fukushima. Unbeknownst to the others, Nao-chan harbors a secret that dates back to third grade. This heartwarming yet slightly mysterious comedy drama follows the lives of these elementary school students as they embrace the present moment.

The Ishihara brothers have led remarkable lives - one serving as the former mayor of Tokyo, while the other has gained fame as a prominent actor. An intricate biography was crafted by the elder sibling as a homage to his younger brother, a revered figure in the Japanese entertainment realm.

Asakura Hazuki, a 40-year-old woman who previously worked for a large publishing company as the editor of a women's magazine called Us, finds herself in a difficult situation when the magazine is discontinued. Her contract with the publishing company is not renewed, leading to her losing her job. Additionally, she goes through a breakup with her boyfriend of seven years, Kosuke, and faces financial strain from loans she took out to purchase designer goods. Despite being on the brink of losing everything, Hazuki's life takes an unexpected turn when she is discovered and offered a position as a bus guide on Ahiru Bus, a city sightseeing tour she had previously taken. This opportunity introduces her to a new world of female bus guides, and she sets out to transform her life while exploring the ever-changing city of Tokyo.

Based on Minato Kanae's book "Yamaonna Nikki," the following information is derived.

During her job search, Yuzu Hodaishi (played by Riho Sayashi) stumbled upon a captivating novel centered around yogurt, developing a newfound admiration for the bacteria lactobacillus bulgaricus featured in the story. Unbeknownst to her, I, a lactobacillus bulgaricus, observes Yuzu Hodaishi and decides to accompany her in an invisible form. After a year of job hunting, Yuzu Hodaishi secures a position at a food company in Meiwa and is stationed at their Osaka branch. Initially working with supermarket personnel, she later transitions to the PR department at the Osaka headquarters, under the guidance of her senior, Itsumi Midori (portrayed by Rio Asumi). Yuzu Hodaishi faces challenges adjusting to life in Osaka and navigating her responsibilities in the PR department. Eventually, she is assigned the task of writing a magazine article to commemorate Meiwa Yogurt's 50th anniversary.

Clients who depend on a solitary advertisement about a restaurant named Kamogawa Shokudo, end up there after remembering a particular dish. Located near Higashi Honganji in Kyoto, this unassuming eatery attracts individuals dealing with various troubles in their lives such as work, family, relationships, and more. The restaurant's waitress, Kamogawa Koishi, listens to customers' problems with genuine concern, while her father Nagare, a former detective, uses his keen observation skills to understand and fulfill their culinary desires. After enjoying the "food with memories" crafted by Koishi and Nagare, patrons leave Kamogawa Shokudo feeling inspired and rejuvenated, ready to face life's challenges with newfound courage and joy. This narrative is inspired by the book "Kamogawa Shokudo" written by Kashiwai Hisashi.

A drama series consisting of four episodes portrays the three-decade aftermath of the devastating Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake in 1995. The series is inspired by the four short stories found in Murakami Haruki's collection "After the Quake."

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.

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...

March marks the time for graduations, a period of farewells, shattered dreams, and loss. Life presents challenges that must be overcome, symbolizing the essence of graduation. As the saying goes, "Goodbye is not the end." Graduation signifies a new beginning rather than an end. This spring, Fuji TV will broadcast a special drama centered on the theme of graduation, featuring a graduation song. The plot revolves around "4 stories linked to popular graduation songs," all set within a radio program. The drama, a poignant and heartwarming tale, delves into the graduation narratives of the radio host and the program's listeners.

This is a theatrical piece that tantalizes the taste buds with vibrant dishes and culinary creations.

In a peculiar location, a man and a woman, vastly different from one another in both time and space, encounter each other. Their destinies are altered. - NAVER

Chen Hao Yuan is a diligent student known for his calm demeanor. In contrast, his close friend, Hong Cheng Yi, has a troubled past involving juvenile detention for a bank robbery. Despite their differences, they worked together to support a classmate struggling with addiction, uncover a teacher's hidden secrets, and investigate the disappearance of bees linked to an impending apocalypse in 2012. Their carefree outlook on life shifted to anger when they learned that a dishonest politician was behind the hardships faced by both of their families. (Dramawiki)

Episode 1, titled "The Woman Next Door," follows the story of an average housewife named Shinobu Terajima who struggles with feelings of envy. In Episode 2, "The Dream of the Goldfish," viewers witness the emotional journey of Noriko Nakagoshi's character as she navigates the complexities of falling in love with a married man. Episode 3, "Chopping Wave," explores the turmoil faced by a soon-to-be bride, played by Shihori Kanjiya, when she encounters temptation from another man. Finally, in Episode 4, "A Love Letter," Mieko Harada's character, a housewife with a son in college and a husband, experiences a revitalization in her marriage after living a mundane existence.

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.

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.

Shiina Hideaki has been trying to find new homes for the cats his late wife raised, with the help of his childhood friend Fujimura Misaki, a veterinarian. Hiromi, who is looking for a cat to fill the void left by her grandmother's beloved pet, visits them. After checking out Hiromi's home, Hideaki gives her a blanket and a cat. Hiromi is happy to see her grandmother's joy at being reunited with the cat. However, she also expresses her wish to introduce her fiance to Hideaki.

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.

Created in collaboration between the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD) of The Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region and Radio Television Hong Kong (RTHK), this series delves into topics such as food safety, sanitation services, license administration, and eco-friendly burials

Takeno Seigi, the proprietor of the dessert cafe "Koi no Mi" situated in a struggling commercial area on the brink of failure, opts to orchestrate a simulated theft alongside his companions in order to safeguard his cherished establishment and loved ones

Based on the book "4teen" written by Ishida Ira, the following information is derived.

The narrative delves into the distinctive occupation of food procurers who earn a living by sourcing items for a trade show, presenting a new viewpoint on regional specialty delicacies

Abe Riji, a habitual offender of driving while intoxicated, has had his driver's license revoked. In order to fulfill his requirement of attending driving school, Riji opts for the most expedient, cost-effective, and uncomplicated option available. However, his plans are disrupted when the school enlists the help of the strictest instructor in the country, Takanashi Miyuki, to enhance its reputation. Tasked with guiding Riji and a group of other troublemakers, Miyuki faces a challenging endeavor. Yet, with perseverance and a stroke of luck, she just might succeed in steering them towards the right path.

A tale of women in their forties seeking marriage and going through divorces unfolds. Nanami, a 39-year-old woman uninterested in marriage, sets out to find a partner to appease her mother. She encounters her old rival Rikako, who moves in with her son after her husband files for divorce. Together, they embark on a journey to fulfill their desires for both a blissful marriage and a smooth divorce. (NHK)

The narrative of Taro Okamoto, a renowned Japanese artist known for his avant-garde works in the 20th Century. Commemorating his 100th birthday in 2011, the film showcases his challenges in creating his iconic piece "The Tower of Taro," which became a symbol of the Osaka Expo in 1970, as well as his unconventional interactions with his family.

A group of five friends who attended the same university are now in their forties. One friend manages the women's clothing section at a department store, while another friend is an aspiring actor. The group also includes a teacher at a cram school, a chef who appears on TV shows, and an entrepreneur who specializes in event planning. Despite their diverse careers, they each navigate through their daily lives, chase their aspirations, value their friendships, cherish their families, and occasionally feel overshadowed by ambitious and lively young individuals.

"26th Century Fox" is a small film production company situated on the rooftop of a tall building. Fumiko Sawano recently started working at 26 Century Fox and initially mistook it for the well-known Hollywood company "20th Century Fox." She is apprehensive about her job at the company due to their lack of successful films. Despite having a limited budget, 26th Century Fox produces special effects movies without relying on CG. The company may have financial constraints, but they possess ambitious visions and innovative ideas. Fumiko actively participates by watching films created by her colleagues and even making appearances in some of them.

Miharu and Hana are dissatisfied with their urban lifestyle and choose to begin anew in Shirakawa, a quaint town located in Gifu Prefecture, Japan. Adjusting to rural living presents its challenges for the couple.

Eiji Asai works as a government official assigned to Kagura Village in Hoshikawa City. The majority of the village's population is over the age of 65, with an average yearly income of 870,000 yen. Asai is working to motivate both the public officers and residents in efforts to revitalize the village.

After his Japanese mother-in-law passes away, Bryan Jenkins, an Englishman, relocates to Tokyo with his family to live with his father-in-law. While his wife commutes to work in the city, Bryan navigates the role of a stay-at-home parent in Japan. From learning the basics of the Japanese language to experiencing the unique traditions of Valentine's Day in the country, Bryan encounters a range of surprises, including the supernatural myths prevalent in Japanese horror stories. Amidst the laughter, love, and cultural misunderstandings, follow Bryan's journey as he strives to ensure the safety and happiness of his family in Tokyo as a foreigner.

Only a short while after relocating to Tokyo, Bryan and the Matsuyama-Jenkins family are still experiencing a busy and eventful life! In the latest season of "Home Sweet Tokyo," viewers will see the family navigating through unique Japanese work meetings, elegant British tea gatherings, serene countryside rice fields, and vibrant summer festivals. Bryan, Itsuki, Alice, and her traditional grandfather Tsuneo are all working together to adapt to their new lifestyle in Tokyo. (NHKWorld-Japan website)

A young woman revisited her hometown and reunited with her childhood companion, who had taken on the responsibility of running her family's business producing sun-dried salt. The business is situated in Kochi Prefecture.

Oshi Hana, aged 78, acknowledges that she stands out among others her age. She makes an effort to appear more youthful than her peers in the presence of her spouse, offspring, and grandchildren.

In a small town, a bookstore is struggling to attract customers despite offering a selection of books curated by the store manager. The store manager and a part-timer have attempted to revitalize the business without success, leading to concerns about its future. Their discovery of a book record titled the "dream bookstore," once owned by the manager's late grandmother, reveals insights into successful overseas bookstores. The upcoming episodes will explore the unique features of Shakespeare and Company bookstore in Paris, France, and Senboku Bookstore in Nanjing, China.

After marrying a senior high school teacher with physical challenges, a textile factory worker found motivation to pursue her dreams. Unfortunately, her life took a turn for the worse following the sudden passing of her husband.

The story is based on the true life experiences of Datuk Stella. According to her, it is important for young individuals to have a life plan in place. By focusing on self-improvement, one can learn to care for others and ultimately find the happiness they seek.

Derived from a publication authored by Junichi Watanabe ( ).

Overcome with regret and hopelessness, Oikawa Shimon roams in search of a place to take his own life. He stumbles upon a quaint eatery named "Magudaraya," perched on a cliff in a locale called "Jinkage." There, he enjoys a comforting meal prepared by the owner, Arima Ria (affectionately known as Maria), and before long, he finds himself asking for a second helping of rice due to its delectable taste. Subsequently, Shimon opts to lend a hand at the restaurant for a time. Through his interactions with Maria, the proprietress Reiko, the fisherman Katsuo, and the young man Maruka, who shares his own desire for an end, Shimon gradually starts to rediscover his will to live. However, one day, Maria mysteriously vanishes from "Jinkage." Though she runs "Magudaraya" with a cheerful demeanor, she harbors a significant secret.

During the late 1950s, the Republic of China, which had endured over fifty years of war, celebrated its tenth anniversary. Yang Xiao Yi, Liu Shi Jun, and their peers are young individuals of this new era embarking on a path to leave their mark on the world. Raised in a single-parent household, Yang Xiao Yi is resolute in uncovering the true identity of her biological father. As she navigates through challenges with her family, friends, and loved ones, she learns valuable lessons and remains resilient in the face of adversity.