Asian dramas like
Sakura No Oyakodon

Children are facing a challenging environment due to the ongoing restrictions in place to limit the spread of the new coronavirus, leading to an increased risk of abuse while spending more time at home. How can we and society support them during this difficult period? Sakura, who grapples with making oyakodon (a dish with chicken and egg), offers us a clue through her alternating acts of kindness and strictness.

The taste of food can vary depending on the company, location, and emotions involved. An elegant food stall, featuring three colors, operates exclusively on weekday evenings within the temple premises. A new store, set to open this spring, promises a captivating experience for visitors. The stall is managed by Shota, a skilled French chef who has mysteriously lost his ability to taste and smell, and Terumoto, a former monk with a refined palate but lacking cooking skills. Struggling in their respective careers and facing pivotal moments in their lives, the two men unexpectedly join forces.

The series portrays Oizumi as the supervisor of a yet-to-open diner in Chigasaki, Kanagawa. Different individuals are featured in each episode as they visit the restaurant. This NTV show is a unique joint effort with Japanese rock group, Southern All Stars, and talent agency, Amuse, to commemorate Southern All Stars' 30th anniversary and NTV's 55th anniversary. A total of 33 songs by Southern All Stars serve as the inspiration for each episode in the series.

Kanbara Kiko is a single mother who is raising her 5-year-old son on her own. In order to start a lunch box business, she relocates to her grandfather's house. Despite her efforts to enroll her son Haruto in a local nursery school, she is informed by a district office staff member that he cannot start immediately. With the pressure of opening her lunch box business the following month, Kiko faces a dilemma as she struggles to find suitable supervision for her son. During this time, Fune Naraoka, the director of a kindergarten, approaches Kiko. A month later, on Haruto's first day at the kindergarten, Kiko is overwhelmed by the sight of expensive cars and designer handbags among the other mothers. The school is known for its exclusivity. Kiko recognizes Kamiya Yuki, a former classmate from middle and high school, and attempts to engage in conversation, but Yuki dismisses her, stating that the school is not for people like Kiko. Among the other mothers, including Yano Satoko, the doctor's wife, Goto Midori, a former career woman, and Odadera Marie, the most influential mother in the school, each has their own undisclosed issues.

Shirai Aoi fulfilled her lifelong dream by starting a bakery in Osaka, but unfortunately, the business struggled and eventually had to close down. Following the closure, a quirky culinary researcher named Sadoya Manami emerged. She began hosting solo pastry-making classes in the kitchen of the shuttered shop. Despite initial hesitations, Shirai agreed to collaborate. The participants in the enigmatic confectionery classes each carried their own emotional burdens. As they spent time creating and savoring sweets, their wounded hearts found solace.

Kim Jun Hee, a member of the widely popular band Indigo AREA, has faced challenges and significant emotional pain. To add to her troubles, her boyfriend, who is the lead vocalist, unexpectedly announces his departure from the group. The narrative follows Jun Hee as she breaks free from her limited beliefs, rediscovers her passion for music, and transforms into a resilient individual. Through this journey, she also learns the importance of forming meaningful connections for survival. This is a touching story of healing and bravery in everyday life.

Bottakuri is a cozy bar situated in the quiet outskirts of Tokyo. Sisters Mine and Kaoru run the establishment, taking over from their deceased parents, serving delicious meals and sake. Along with their loyal patrons, the sisters engage in resolving minor issues and exchanging insights over food and drinks. This story is inspired by the web novel "Izakaya Bottakuri" by Akikawa Takimi.

Toko operates a cozy eatery called Snack Kizutsuki. The establishment specializes in snacks and does not offer alcoholic beverages. She warmly greets patrons who may be burdened with emotional scars.

After a tragic incident, three former classmates from art school come together after a long time. They each have a unique connection to the deceased man, including his ex-girlfriend, the manager of a rugby club he belonged to, and his ex-boyfriend. As they navigate their own struggles, the trio starts meeting up and sharing meals. Oda Chiharu had landed her dream job as a designer but left due to workplace bullying. She now finds joy in cooking for others, while indulging in convenience store meals when alone. Nakamura Seiko works in the PR department of a cosmetics company and feels pressured by her family's belief that marriage is a must. Her engagement is abruptly called off by her fiancé, who also works in the same company. Amagai Eiji, who used to work as a designer in an advertising agency, is now feeling lost after being transferred to the sales department. He grapples with his identity as a gay man, which he has not yet disclosed to his parents.

In the quiet hours of the evening, a chef at a cozy restaurant provides comfort to patrons with his flavorful creations. As a result, visitors flock to this nighttime spot to enjoy a meal and find solace in having their life challenges eased.

The narrative revolves around an enigmatic cook and his after-hours eatery that operates from midnight until dawn. Each night, the diner showcases the mundane tales of its customers as they converse and enjoy the signature dish.

At 25 years old, Kurumi Ichiki has already experienced living in France during her youth. Upon returning to Japan, she found employment as a waitress at a prestigious traditional restaurant. Known for her culinary skills, Kurumi catches the attention of Prime Minister Ato Ichiro and Executive Secretary Koga Seiji, who are in search of a cook for the prime minister's residence after 70 years. Seiji recognizes Kurumi's natural talent for cooking during an encounter and offers her the position. Despite initial hesitation, Kurumi accepts the job and begins working at the prime minister's residence. However, she faces challenges in a difficult environment with the head chef and his team at the official residence's restaurant.

Tsukumo Sakura has joined the team responsible for providing meals at a shelter that offers temporary sanctuary to children who have experienced abuse. The location of the shelter remains confidential to safeguard the children from their caregivers and other adults. (jdramas.wordpress.com)

Mei Benikawa, aged 28, is employed in the public relations sector of a beauty company. She is not only attractive but also excels in her role, leading to her promotion as the head of the public relations team at a young age. Mei's colleagues sometimes envy her, spreading rumors that she strictly adheres to a healthy diet to maintain her looks. However, in reality, Mei indulges in alcohol alone at a budget-friendly chain eatery on her way home from work as a way to reward herself for her hard work. This solitary indulgence serves as motivation for Mei to face the challenges of the next day.

French chef Jin Pai partnered with his friend Wu Cheng Xin to open a French eatery. Unfortunately, Wu Cheng Xin abruptly left, leaving Jin Pai struggling with financial difficulties. He was forced to give up half of the restaurant to cover unpaid staff wages and rent. Just as things were starting to look up for the family business, Jin Pai's grandmother fell ill.

A young man came back to his native town and decided to open a coffee shop in the historic area. Soon after, the owner of the building where his shop was located returned home with the intention of selling the property to support her boyfriend's business. However, her plan was foiled when the person in charge of her great aunt's will/ property insisted that she complete three tasks with the young man before agreeing to her request. The tasks led them on a journey where they learned about the town's past and its inhabitants. Through this experience, the property owner also developed a fondness for her great aunt's hometown.

Akiko resides with her mother until her mother's unexpected passing. Following this, she resigns from her editing position to manage her mother's cozy restaurant. The restaurant offers a simple menu consisting of sandwiches and soup. This story is adapted from the novel "Bread And Soup And Cat Weather" by Mure Yoko.

"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)

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.

Following the success of its initial television run, the series Angels with Broken Wings, featuring scripts by Yoshi, garnered over 1,800 messages from viewers praising the show. Now, the series is returning for a second installment! In the latest installment of the popular Deep Love series created by Yoshi, viewers can expect four stories, including one that was not featured in the first installment and three brand new stories. This series is a must-watch for young individuals facing challenges and for their parents' generation. The four nights will feature the following stories: 1st night - Impulse (starring Satomi Ishihara), 2nd night - Confederate (starring Erika Toda), 3rd night - Time (starring Rosa Katoh), and 4th night - Merchandise (starring Karina).

This series follows the lives of four women who are in their forties. Shifumi, an attractive woman, was known for stealing her classmate's boyfriend during high school. Despite facing criticism, she got married and had a child before eventually getting divorced. Currently, she is dating a younger man. The other three women from Shifumi's past include Makiko, a typical housewife, Neri, a doctor focused on her career, and Miwa, another housewife. Miwa is secretly involved with Keishi, Shifumi's ex-husband and the boyfriend she had stolen in the past. As the story unfolds, the hidden secrets and lies of these four women gradually come to light.

Narumi is a tranquil island, inspired by the real-life Hateruma Island, where the demand for medical assistance outweighs the need for law enforcement. Despite the initial reluctance of the inhabitants, Shirase Ryo, a police officer, is assigned to the island. Over time, he forms close bonds with the locals and assists them in resolving their issues and planning for the island's future. --Tokyograph

Married life for Onodera Mariya took an unexpected turn when her husband Tatsuya disappeared suddenly. Feeling lost, she travels to a heart-shaped island in Okinawa that Tatsuya had mentioned before. Meanwhile, Tsuruta Kameko, a midwife in Tokyo, becomes disillusioned with the attitude towards abortion and hospital births among young women. After winning a lottery, she embarks on a trip around the world but ends up in Okinawa where she discovers a need for midwives. Determined to make a difference, she decides to establish a maternity hospital on the island. The paths of these two women from different generations cross in the southern islands, where they are welcomed by the locals with open arms, embodying the Okinawan saying, "If we meet by chance, we're all brothers and sisters."

Fujishima Ryo, aspiring to become an Italian chef, falls victim to a scam and finds herself in significant financial trouble. She is welcomed to Makanai-sou by her sister Kyoko, where they will live together for the first time in 15 years. Makanai-sou, a boarding house in Nagoya with a communal bath, provides meals for all residents.

Takeuchi Ryoma decides to take a break from shooting and decides to spend his leisure time visiting a spice shop. He informs the owner of his desire to prepare an extra spicy curry, prompting her to suggest some of her top spice picks. They collaborate to whip up a delicious curry just as a new customer walks into the shop. (jdramas.wordpress.com)

Satoshi Shirata has been instructed by his company to relocate to Nagoya. His wife, who remains in Tokyo by herself, is unhappy about her husband's new assignment. Knowing that her favorite food is rice balls, Satoshi sets out to discover a specialty rice ball from the Tokai region that will please his wife.

Sugisaki Hana, a well-known actress with a hectic schedule, finds herself with unexpected free time during a break from filming. Curious creators have taken the opportunity to explore a different side of Sugisaki Hana during her downtime. One day, while on a break from shooting, Sugisaki Hana discovers that her washing machine is out of order. With no other option, she heads to the laundromat, where she realizes she only has 1,000 yen bills and no change. As she steps outside to find some change, she comes across musician Mizuki (played by Kamishiraishi Moka) performing on the street. Intrigued, Hana purchases Mizuki's CD for 1,000 yen, leaving her with no money for the laundromat. She attempts to borrow some change from Gonda, a fellow customer, but...

Shoraku, the assistant head priest at Rakuji Temple, attempted to earn money by teaching calligraphy, but was unsuccessful

Akari's biological mother hails from Osaka. In order to delve deeper into her roots, she relocates to Osaka to reside with her grandmother. It is revealed that Akari's grandmother shut down the okonomiyaki eatery following the departure of Akari's adolescent mother. Subsequently, Akari takes it upon herself to revive the okonomiyaki restaurant and launch the business independently.

Heaven's Door used to be a well-liked upscale dining establishment, but the patronage has dwindled since new management took over. Chie Ariga, a high school student working part-time at the restaurant, finds herself with very few customers to attend to. As the owner contemplates closing down the business, a surprising array of customers start showing up. Oda Nobunaga? Cleopatra? Napoleon? Every week, the staff must cater to a different renowned historical figure.

Based on Kai Minori's book "Walking, Eating: A Delicious Architectural Stroll Through Tokyo."

Focuses on a dining establishment frequented by solitary food enthusiasts who gather to exchange their personal anecdotes. (DramaWiki)

Seino, a manga creator residing in Tokyo, suddenly becomes aware of numerous towns on the map that he has never encountered

Midorikawa Haruhi, aged 28, runs a charming lodging in the Okuhida area, nestled amidst the natural beauty of the surroundings

Miya, a regular employee, resides in the lively urban area. At 26 years old, she is amicable and diligent in her job, even though she occasionally takes the fall for others without being able to defend herself. The routine and demanding nine-to-five job can be tedious, but Miya finds joy in her leisure time outside of work. Typically, unmarried Miya doesn't hurry home after finishing work. Instead, she deliberately strolls down a street filled with restaurants and dining places, sometimes stopping by her favorite spot to enjoy familiar tastes or experimenting with new dishes on a whim. After satisfying her hunger, she lets out a satisfied sigh. Such a woman, who appreciates life, is someone you'd want to sit beside and relish a meal with...

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)

During an attempted bank robbery by handymen Kai Sakazaki and Hayao Morikawa, they encountered Akemi Ikezawa, a female bank clerk. Akemi, who is a single mother, went through a divorce after giving birth to her son, who is now in the custody of his father. The father has demanded 100 million yen in exchange for returning the child.

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.

Yujirou Takasawa spent 3 years working as a male nurse in a predominantly female workplace. After becoming comfortable with the environment and his responsibilities, he was suddenly transferred to a different hospital. Although initially enthusiastic about the change, Yujirou faced challenges in his new role. His female co-workers were not accustomed to working with a male nurse, and the overseeing doctor, a strict woman, constantly gave him orders.

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

Murakami Shinsuke is an expert in corporate consulting specializing in personnel restructuring. He strategically guides employees towards voluntary retirement through one-on-one interviews. The storyline revolves around workers who are compelled to reflect on the significance of their jobs in the midst of impending layoffs. -- NHK

Taking place in the 8th-9th century, Aterui leads the Emishi tribe in the Isawa Prefecture of northern Japan. Despite being outnumbered by the Yamato government's massive military force, Aterui bravely defends his tribe. This story is inspired by Katsuhiko Takahashi's novel "Kaen Kita no Yosei Aterui," published by Kodansha on October 16, 2002.

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.

Sanada Nishiki and Yamada Jiro, a male pair, are the creative minds behind Himekawa Rosanna, a well-known writer of girls manga. They were mentored by an editor known as "the Monster" and entered the world of girls manga writing. Despite their success, their true passion lies in creating manga centered around gourmet food. Their home office boasts a secret library filled with novels, essays, and manga featuring delectable dishes. When faced with looming manga deadlines, they often retreat into the world of gourmet cuisine within the pages of their books, temporarily forgetting about their responsibilities as they indulge in cooking.

TV series based on the popular manga created by Mitsutoshi Furuya.