Asian dramas like
Magudara Ya No Maria

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

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

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."

University student Wakamizu Ryota, in the midst of searching for a job, becomes involved in a sudden conflict between rival gangs

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.

Apoyan is a story based on a novel by Shinno Takeshi that focuses on the individuals involved in international travel, including travel agents and airport staff. Endo Keita, an employee at JALPAK, was responsible for overseeing overseas package projects at the Head Office. However, he was unexpectedly reassigned to Narita Airport, where underperforming employees were typically sent to work at the counters assisting travelers. Feeling undervalued and unproductive, Endo contemplated leaving the company as his passion for creating tour packages seemed unappreciated. Despite initial reservations, Endo gradually finds purpose in his new role at Narita Airport, thanks to the support of his colleague Baba Hanae and by assisting customers with their travel concerns before departure.

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.

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.

Shibano Takeo is known for his expertise in corporate restructuring. After the unexpected passing of his mentor, the renowned inventor Fujimura Tokio, Shibano transitions from a large electronics company to a struggling metal molding factory named Majitech. Facing the threat of bankruptcy, he is tasked with revitalizing the business. Despite feeling inadequate compared to Fujimura's daughter Asako, Shibano works alongside her younger brother Nozomu, Fujimura's trusted associate Okemoto, and other employees to rescue the factory. Meanwhile, a disgruntled Murao, with a history with Shibano, and an international investment firm called Horizon, make attempts to gain control of Majitech for their own motives.

Derived from the book "Kumokiri Nizaemon" by the author Ikenami Shotaro.

Based on Cao Xueqin's novel "Dream of the Red Chamber".

Derived from a publication bearing the identical name.

Based on the book "Kumokiri Nizaemon" by the author Ikenami Shotaro.

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)

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.

Based on Yamate Kiichiro's book "Momotaro Samurai" ( ), the following text has been modified.

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.

During the Kyoho era under the rule of Tokugawa Yoshimune, a group of thieves operated in Edo, as well as along the Tokaido and Nakasendo highways, and throughout the Kansai region. They were skilled at stealing large amounts of money, specifically targeting the wealthy without causing harm. Known for their ability to appear and disappear mysteriously, they executed a well-planned theft from a dry goods dealer on the night of Ochiyo's planned marriage. This gang had been plotting for two years to use Ochiyo to their advantage. Led by the infamous Kumokiri Nizaemon, they were a group of highly skilled thieves including Nanabake no Ochiyo, Kinezumi no Kichigoro, Subashiri no Kumagoro, and Ingakozo Rokunosuke. In response to the gang's activities, the shogunate appointed Abe Shikibu to lead the public security force Hitsuke Tozoku Aratamekata with the task of eliminating the Kumokiri gang. This marked the beginning of a fierce battle of wits and pride between Nizaemon and Shikibu. Despite the continuous threat posed by Hitsuke Tozoku Aratamekata, the Kumokiri gang sought to target a wealthy Owari merchant, only to be met by Shikibu's resistance. As the public security force closed in, the question remained: How would the Kumokiri gang carry out their theft?

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.

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.

In Western Japan, specifically in the Tsukigase domain, Kusakabe Gengo receives instructions to carry out the execution of his childhood friend and former chief retainer, Matsuura Shogen. Despite their past bond and shared experiences at a kendo school, their paths diverged after a falling out caused by an undisclosed incident. Speculations suggest that Shogen's actions have drawn disfavor for obstructing the domain lord's advancement. However, as Shogen is recognized by the public as an artist, a public execution would be damaging. Gengo, tasked with settling a personal grudge through a duel, embarks on a search for an appropriate location for Shogen's demise. After two decades, Gengo decides to reunite with Shogen, triggering a fateful reunion as they both age. -

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.

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

Based on Ikenami Shotaro's book "Kumokiri Nizaemon" ( ), this text has been modified.

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)

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.

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.

Derived from the tale of Okuni.

A side story featuring Sarukawa's coworkers at Lonron, a beverage company, unfolds

30-year-old Sada Seiya is employed at a general trading company and is considered the top performer in the Intermedia Communication Department, also known as the Handsome Department

The narrative follows Lee, a versatile individual who tackles challenges outside of the police's jurisdiction using unconventional methods

For many years, Kwong Ming Pawn Shop has been well-known for its skilled owner, Uncle Kin, who has treated orphaned siblings Kwan Ling and Kwan Chun as if they were his own family. Despite a falling out that separated them, the siblings make a comeback years later when the shop encounters financial difficulties. Their return presents new obstacles and surprising twists, ultimately changing their connections and the future of the shop.

Based on the book written by Fumio Yamamoto, under the identical name.

The samurai lived by the code of duty and honor, with some driven by greed and power while others were guided by friendship, truth, and love. Bunshiro's story is one of tragedy and triumph, as he overcomes adversity to become a skilled swordsman and protector of the vulnerable. His love for Fuku blossoms in their youth, but their paths diverge due to her poverty and his personal loss. When a corrupt official causes Bunshiro's father to take his own life, Bunshiro is shunned by society. However, he ultimately foils the official's plan to harm Fuku, who is now married to a local lord, and exposes the corruption. Years later, Bunshiro and Fuku reunite to reflect on their past and the enduring love between them. This tale is inspired by the jidaigeki novel "Semishigure" penned by Fujisawa Shuhei.

Based on Shibata Renzaburo's novel "Gokenin Zankuro" ( ).

Animal Trail, a natural path created by the movement of wildlife, can be a lifesaver for individuals who find themselves lost in the wilderness. One day, a woman who feels overwhelmed by her difficult circumstances unexpectedly encounters a man. Desperate for a change, she decides to trust the stranger's guidance and see where the "Animal Trail" will take her. Will this path bring her joy and fulfillment, or will it lead her astray?

A tale of a young pitcher and catcher forming a strong bond as they work together on the field. Harada Takumi, a reserved middle school student with impressive throwing skills, crosses paths with Nagakura Go, a catcher capable of handling Takumi's fast pitches. Through their teamwork, they cultivate a sense of trust among their fellow teammates. (NHK)

Based on Ikenami Shotaro's book "Kumokiri Nizaemon," the following text has been modified.