Asian dramas like
Otona Joshi

Katagiri Sayo, an office worker at a prominent IT firm, is a firm believer in the idea that hard work will lead to success. Morimoto Miharu, a nurse, is beginning to lose hope in her long-standing relationship with her boyfriend Ryota. Yamashita Miwa, an office worker at a bank, struggles with low self-esteem and is quick to give herself up when asked. On the other hand, Matsuoka Akane, a confident company secretary with a mysterious past, exudes beauty that turns heads wherever she goes. These four women embark on a journey to find their life partners in pursuit of happiness. The government's covert organization, Peanut Butter Sandwiches, known for its matchmaking support, springs into action. Will these women, each with their own unique perspectives on marriage, find the encounters that will change their lives forever?

The story revolves around three women from diverse backgrounds uniting for the purpose of revenge: a middle-aged fishmonger aspiring for a more fulfilling life, a homemaker, and an heiress brought up in a sheltered, privileged environment. This unexpected trio would normally never cross paths, yet they come together to pursue their personal vendettas. While initially acting as co-conspirators, they gradually forge a deep bond of friendship throughout their journey.

Emi works as a lighting technician at a company that specializes in lighting. Due to her predominantly male colleagues, she has adopted a more tomboyish behavior. Emi is not interested in typical girly things like fashion and has a cynical view on love. Despite this, she harbors feelings for her ex-boyfriend, who is also her coworker. Mako is a diligent office worker who is somewhat clumsy and hesitant to pursue romantic relationships. She had never been intimate with anyone until she developed feelings for a colleague. Saki is a stunning and confident young woman with aspirations of becoming a journalist. However, she ends up working as a hostess in a bar to support her family. Saki fabricates stories about working at a prestigious publishing company to her family. She becomes romantically involved with a married man who is kind and supportive.

After being dumped by her boyfriend of many years, a woman starts to see herself as undesirable in the realm of love. However, her perspective changes when she meets a man who teaches her the worth of things that have been previously owned.

Hashimoto Tomoko, aged 42, leads a mundane life as a typical homemaker. One fateful day, she crosses paths with Sugawara Yuichi, a part-time worker 15 years her junior. Yuichi is in a relationship with Suzuki Satomi, who lives with him, while Tomoko is married to Koji. Despite being fully aware of their respective partners, Tomoko and Yuichi engage in frequent encounters in a narrow street near the Chuo train line without any clear intentions, ultimately leading to a physical relationship. These rendezvous serve as a temporary escape from the relentless monotony of their lives, filling the emotional void within them. However, an unforeseen event begins to shake Tomoko and Yuichi, unraveling an incredibly harsh reality that lies ahead for them.

Childhood friends Kaede, Kaoru, Michiru, and Emi reunite on Emi's wedding day. However, Kaede faces challenges as her company goes bankrupt and her boyfriend breaks up with her, just as she nears her 30th birthday. Determined to pursue her childhood passion, Kaede decides to become a baker and lands a job at a bakery. But baking proves to be difficult, especially under the strict guidance of the senior baker. Meanwhile, Kaoru works at a high-end massage salon, Michiru struggles financially as she makes handbags, and Emi navigates the ups and downs of newlywed life. The future holds uncertainty for these women as they embark on their respective journeys.

The tale of three women with contrasting personalities who unexpectedly become friends and support each other through life's challenges, discovering their self-worth along the way. Kang Zi You, who recently returned to China from the United States, works as a sales executive director at an aesthetic medical clinic owned by her close friend Lin Qian Yu. Despite excelling in her career, Kang Zi You struggles with personal organization and relies on her daughter Kang Ni for support. Kang Ni, a skilled homemaker with a passion for cooking and table setting, cares for her mother while longing for independence. The arrival of a new doctor, Nie Yun Ze, disrupts the women's routine but also brings Kang Zi You and Nie Yun Ze closer despite their differences. Meanwhile, Lin Qian Yu's marital problems compel Kang Zi You to work with her ex-husband's wife, Meng Yu Shan, to find a solution.

Jounouchi Jun is employed as a researcher at a company that produces paper. Due to her intense focus on research, she finds herself lacking in style and self-assurance. Jun struggles with connecting with others, especially in terms of romantic relationships and casual conversation with women. In an effort to break free from her current predicament, Jun decides to delve into the world of fashionable makeup, clothing, and beauty alongside her two coworkers.

At midnight, Sara logged onto a website and posted a message asking for someone dying to donate their heart to her daughter. In an Internet cafe, a young man responded to her plea by typing slowly on the keyboard. When Sara checked the website again, she was surprised to see a reply saying, "I am willing to donate my heart." This marked the beginning of a mysterious connection between the young man and single mother Sara. As their relationship developed, the young man's life came to an end. Was this the fate that awaited Sara all along?

A compelling drama that presents a distinct take on secret and forbidden romance revolves around the fictional 'Alibi Corporation', which expertly conceals the private lives of its clients

Rei, a young woman from a small town, relocates to a bustling metropolis in pursuit of her aspirations. Upon her arrival in Tokyo, she secures a job at a bar where she forms friendships with three fellow female employees: Maki, a student of art; Ryoko, who is opportunistic; and Hirono, an aspiring actress. The establishment they work at is called Yume no Kura, meaning "Dream Warehouse", reflecting each girl's quest for their dreams. (Asiatorrents)

Fukazawa Misaki, 27, and her sister Hazuki, 29, have contrasting personalities. Misaki is charismatic but laid-back, while Hazuki is a detail-oriented ward office employee who is determined to get married early. When Misaki unexpectedly moves in with Hazuki, their hidden secrets and childhood conflicts resurface. Living together causes tension as their beliefs start to evolve.

In every populated area, there exists a community. Districts are interconnected by trains, with stations serving as meeting points for people and opportunities for love to blossom. This series consists of 10 episodes showcasing various love stories - romantic, familial, friendly, and hometown love - all centered around different train stations along the Osaka Loop line. (jdramas.wordpress)

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.

Kayama Hanabi, Machi Akebi, and Shiraishi Wakana became acquainted after discovering they were all deceived by a man named Yamada. Instead of harboring resentment, the trio bonded and agreed to join a matchmaking event in the future. This delightful comedy follows the journey of three women with unique characteristics who share an unusual connection. As they encounter different suitors at weekend matchmaking gatherings, the women not only find love but also experience personal growth and rediscover their vitality.

Nowadays, it appears that there are an overwhelming number of single working women in their 30s. These women have dedicated their lives to achieving their aspirations, only to find themselves alone. As they seek companionship, they discover that most eligible men have already been taken by younger women focused solely on marriage. They attempt to convince themselves that they are better off than being stuck in an unfulfilling relationship, yet they cannot shake off the feelings of solitude and loneliness. "Marry Me" narrates the journey of women in their thirties as they confront life and uncover new aspects of themselves. Sin Young, a 30-year-old unmarried reporter formerly labeled a "troublemaker," perseveres in her investigative work despite challenges. Soon Ae, also 30, works as a stewardess and is the primary provider for her family, supporting her sick father, a completely despondent aunt, and a similarly unfortunate cousin. Seung Ri is famous for her numerous romantic escapades. (DramaWiki)

Yeong Hui is a woman who has parted ways with her husband, Sang Jin, due to his infidelity. One day, Jeong Hyo, who is pregnant and facing pressure from her boyfriend to terminate the pregnancy, moves in with Yeong Hui, her boyfriend's mother. Despite their frequent arguments, they gradually begin to comprehend each other better.

When three famished girls come together, it's essential to share their romantic escapades! If the food is delicious, it has zero calories; if you chat about love while dining, it counts as -999999 calories. (Dramawiki)

After a challenging divorce, Xiao Qiang loses hope in love until she encounters Bao Jia Ming, a passionate young computer engineer. Bao Jia Ming embodies all the qualities Xiao Qiang feels she has lost - he is idealistic, driven, and ambitious. The narrative follows their love story as they navigate through numerous challenges together.

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

In this eccentric, surreal online series, a man and his fictitious companion explore his profound reflections during showers about existence, romance, and washing methods. (AsianCrush)

Kamijo Natsu resides in accommodation provided by her employer. One day, she overhears gossip from the other women in the neighborhood. The gossip suggests that Komaki Rie, a close friend of Natsu's, has left her spouse and child for another man. Natsu, who values family above all else, is skeptical of the rumor. Shortly after, Rie contacts Natsu and shares that she feels liberated and content in her decision. Meanwhile, a young man named Saeki Ryu moves into the apartment below Natsu's. Ryu happens to work in the same department as Natsu's husband, Yoshiyuki. As time goes on, Natsu begins to develop romantic feelings for Ryu.

December Fever narrates the perilous romance between a married woman and a man on the brink of death. The plot features a woman who finds herself drawn to another man, along with the young suitor attempting to win her over, and the individuals pursuing them. The story explores themes of hypocrisy and double standards, highlighting those who make sacrifices for their families. Additionally, it delves into the relationship between a father and his ailing son, as well as the tensions involving their mothers-in-law. With its engaging and comedic characters, the narrative reflects the nuances of everyday life. (DramaWiki)

Zhang Pei, Gou Dan Dan, Dong Jia Xi, and Wu Yun are childhood friends who have pursued different careers in various cities. Zhang Pei is a dedicated insurance agent, Gou Dan Dan is a successful beauty influencer, Dong Jia Xi works at a theater to follow her passion, and Wu Yan has joined the civil service. Despite their separate paths, fate brought them back together in their hometown. Zhang Pei returned for business opportunities, Gou Dan Dan moved back to start a family, Dong Jia Zi returned due to her mother's illness, and Wu Yun eagerly awaited their reunion amidst her busy schedule. In their hometown, they discovered new career paths, cherished friendship, found solace in family, and experienced the joy of love.

A tale of a temporary employee who escapes into the imaginative realm of a manga called Rose of Versailles. Katsuko's mundane routine is disrupted when the company president's son introduces a harsh cost-cutting plan at her workplace, causing her distress. Hearing the voice of Oscar, the protagonist of the comic, Katsuko is inspired to stand up for her coworkers and oppose the unfair policy.

Kaze Matsukichi, a television producer, is married to the lovely Futaba. Despite having nine mistresses, both his wife and mistresses are aware of each other's presence but choose to stay with him despite his unfaithfulness. Eventually, they conspire to kill him.

Kiriyama Tsubaki, an employee at a matchmaking app firm, was in a relationship with his coworker, Sorano Anzu

The Wang family confronts several difficulties: social elitism; prejudice; adult children returning home after having lived independently throughout college; the power dynamics within the family unit, particularly between husband and wife; and the timing of marriage and starting a family amid the economic challenges present in contemporary Korean society. The eldest daughter had joined a wealthy family through marriage, but after their bankruptcy, she and her family were compelled to return to her parents' residence. The second daughter is struggling financially as her husband is currently unemployed, while the youngest daughter unexpectedly chose to resign from her job.

The series effectively narrates the journey of a girl named Hyo Rin, who is perpetually troubled by matters of the heart

Ujita Kie, a dedicated homemaker, found herself in a difficult situation when she unexpectedly learned about her husband's infidelity and received divorce papers without any means of reaching him. Feeling a mix of shock and anger, she tracked down the residence of Marika, her husband's mistress. To her surprise, she encountered Marika's boyfriend, Kenta, at the location. Both victims of betrayal decided to live together after this unexpected encounter.

The tale commences with a lost engagement ring in the MRT train. Yi Zhi had intended to propose to Lisa on that special day, but unfortunately, the ring slipped from his grasp. As they set out to find the ring, they both began to reflect on the true meaning of love. Meanwhile, the ring embarked on its own journey through the city, passing through different stations and becoming entangled in various love stories. Much like the concept of love itself, this ring flowed continuously through the bustling city.

Following her graduation from college, Sai Xiao Hua is resolute in her decision to remain in Beijing. Despite securing a job, she experiences a complicated relationship with her employer, Qiao Ma, leading to her dismissal. Subsequently, she opts to launch a small grocery store specializing in organic produce alongside her old classmate, You Liang. (Viki)

Yeong Seok, a student gearing up for the bar exam, experiences an instant attraction to the lovely Yu Jin when he goes to pick up his nephew from kindergarten

This is a tale about individuals with diverse aspirations, dreams, and strategies to accomplish their goals. Each person possesses unique perspectives on life, career, and relationships. Lok Tien Sung is the offspring of the affluent Ko Hung, while Seung Hei is a regular office worker who coincidentally moves into Tien Sung's residence. Lam Oi Mei and Hong Ching hold leadership positions in large companies. Tien Sung and Seung Hei later join the same firm and develop a close friendship. Amy faced the loss of both her parents at a young age, teaching her the value of money and leading her to resort to deceit and deception for financial gain. Despite Hong Ching's deep affection for her, Amy considers him insufficiently wealthy. Upon discovering Tien Sung's affluent background, Amy employs various tactics to win his love.

What happens to men when they reach the age of forty? What goes through their minds? How does their lifestyle evolve? Their relationships, concerns, challenges, and hidden truths... This story follows three men in their forties as they navigate the complexities of life: struggles with romantic relationships, career aspirations, and various other aspects of their lives. Each man has a unique narrative that intertwines with the others, leading to an unexpected conclusion.

Toji manages the food section in a medium-sized department store and faces challenges with a difficult boss. However, his luck changes when he meets a charming elevator operator named Nao. Just as Toji begins to find happiness at work, his ex-girlfriend Makoto reappears as an account manager from an advertising agency. Despite Toji's surprise, Makoto acts as if they have never met before. With a demanding job and tension between Nao and Makoto, Toji finds himself in a difficult situation.

NHK's commemorative drama series for its 50th anniversary features multiple short stories showcasing popular Japanese actors and actresses. The narrative follows a ball as it travels from the river's origin to the ocean, revealing six love stories set in different seasons throughout the year.

Derived from the 2006 movie Sugar & Spice, this spin-off series consists of four unique narratives. In the first case, Minami, a student at the same university as Yutaka, harbors a secret admiration for him despite his relationship status. As circumstances change, Minami and Yutaka grow closer. The second case follows Madoka and her partner Satoshi as they navigate a long-distance relationship when he is relocated to Sendai for work. The third case revolves around Mika, who, after experiencing betrayal, loses faith in love until a colleague named Yuta challenges her beliefs. Lastly, the fourth case introduces Takuma, responsible for managing fanmail for the popular radio show School of Lock, who falls head over heels for Asuka, a waitress he encounters at a cafe. Wiki/d-addicts

Life is frequently compared to a theatrical production, with individuals as the leading actors in their own stories. It is important for everyone to have their own unique experiences to share. However, some individuals fail to recognize this and end up living in the shadows, much like our protagonist. Orphaned at a young age, she has simply accepted whatever life has thrown her way. This changes when she crosses paths with a veteran Shakespearean actor who is facing personal challenges in his role as a manager. A special bond forms between them, resembling that of a family. This heartwarming comedy is filled with struggles, humor, witty exchanges, and love.

"Rikon Doukyo" follows the story of Konaka Masaru and Ichinose Naoko, a couple who initially appear to have a content family life. However, their happiness is disrupted when they choose to separate. Despite their divorce, the couple ends up living together once more under unexpected circumstances.

With your support, I find the strength to persevere... I vow to never release this intertwined hand! This heartfelt tale showcases the bonds between parents and children, men and women, and all humanity. Against all odds, a woman who has been through three divorces raises three children from different fathers as a single mother. She navigates life's challenges without losing herself, facing obstacles daily in the enduring love shared between mother and child. (tvdrama-db.com)

The setting of the story is in Tokyo and it centers around Kojima Haruta, a 40-year-old man who experiences a severe mental breakdown, causing him to lose his job, family, and home. After a series of events, Haruta meets Otake Shin, the proprietor of an antique furniture store, who takes him in and offers him a job as a furniture repairman. Grateful for this act of kindness, Haruta vows to rebuild his life but chooses to isolate himself to avoid further stress. However, his life takes an unexpected turn when he meets Hayama Miyako, a 26-year-old woman who becomes overly attached and fixated on the man she falls in love with.

Kurosaki Yoriko, aged 32, finds herself without a partner, without companions, and without employment. As she embarks on living independently for the first time, she discovers a whole new world around her. Follow along as this story unfolds, showcasing the minor events that take place within a 7-minute stroll from her apartment.

In the bustling neighborhood of Daikanyama in Tokyo, there are four ex-schoolmates who reside together in an apartment, each striving to find their own happiness. Arisugawa Fuu is employed at a design firm and indulges in fashion with a substantial portion of her earnings, Hada Mizuho is an up-and-coming manga illustrator, Sakuragawa Rio specializes in psychosomatic therapy, and Enjoji Sayuri holds a position at an art gallery in Ginza.

25-year-old Kiriyama Saori has experienced numerous romantic relationships in her lifetime and continues to search for true love and her ideal partner through different methods of seeking marriage. However, she encounters deceitful individuals along the way, including a womanizer, a man overly attached to his mother, and a penny-pincher. Unbeknownst to these men, Saori possesses a unique ability that causes her personality to drastically shift in an instant. What mysterious power does she hold?!

Bank executive Takizawa Kanji is dedicated solely to his career, achieving the position of branch manager through his unwavering determination during a period of financial industry restructuring. Recently, his communication with his wife Mariko has decreased, and he has drifted apart from his daughter Misaki, who is now of marriageable age. Despite this, he embraces his work-centric lifestyle. Unexpectedly, Kanji is reassigned to a client company for an unclear reason, causing him to question his life choices. Overwhelmed by this sudden change, he decides to escape to Switzerland under the guise of a business trip. While in the Swiss Alps, he meets Meguro Shiori during a snowstorm on a gondola ride to the Matterhorn, sparking a connection between them. Meanwhile, Mariko suspects her husband may be unfaithful but struggles to confront her suspicions. She finds herself entangled in a forbidden romance with her daughter's fiancé, Hino Haruki.

Torako is a secretive yet skilled tutor who harbors grand aspirations and diligently pursues them. She selectively takes on tutoring assignments from affluent families, building relationships and accumulating savings along the way. At present, she is mentoring three students, each with their own set of challenges, as they strive to gain admission to elite educational institutions.

Ikawa Konatsu used to believe she was deeply in love with Onuma Ryosuke, but that seems like a distant memory now. However, when they unexpectedly meet at a party, Konatsu can't ignore the chemistry that still exists between them. Against her instincts, Konatsu invites Ryosuke to her home, unaware that she is not the only woman he has recently spent time with. Kurata Akari is not the most social student in her university class, preferring to stay home and watch movies rather than go out with friends. Despite this, Akari enjoys spending time with others, which is why she agrees when Ryosuke offers to walk her home and join her for a memorable evening. Nomiya Riko encounters Ryosuke at a bar one evening and they immediately hit it off, leading to a night together that Riko will not forget. However, questions arise about Ryosuke's true intentions as he continues to spend time with different women every night. What motivates him to deceive those who believe he is a kind and innocent man?

Is it possible for a once-popular actor to stage a successful comeback? Atsumori Daigoro, formerly hailed as the king of two-hour suspense, faces a career slump as television networks no longer produce two-hour dramas. It has been over a year since he last landed a role. One day, Yoshida Yukari, a former talent agency manager, reappears in his life. Despite being forced out of the industry seven years prior, she is determined to help Atsumori make a comeback. With her unwavering enthusiasm, she secures job opportunities for him, despite his outdated and prejudiced views. Can Atsumori reclaim his throne as the king of suspense? This heartwarming comedy follows his journey of starting anew in life. (FujiTV)