Asian dramas like
Yoidore Kotoji

In the late Edo period in Kyoto, there was a tale of a mysterious samurai wearing a mask who chooses to fight for justice and eliminate wickedness. Amidst the chaos of samurais clashing due to their conflicting loyalties to the Tokugawa shogunate, the common people lived in fear. Kurama Tengu, the masked samurai, emerges as a protector, aiding the innocent in their time of need.

Taking place in the Bakumatsu era, which marked the end of the Edo period, the story follows Sakai Banshiro, a samurai of humble origins. He decides to leave his family and serve at the lord's castle. By preparing dishes based on recipes from his wife, Banshiro brings comfort and solutions to the troubles of the people around him.

The fourth installment of the Ooku series focuses on the time of the 3rd Shogun, Tokugawa Iemitsu, and the establishment of the Ooku. Iemitsu was raised by his nanny, O-fuku, while his younger brother Tadanaga was raised by their biological mother, who was the Shogun's wife. Throughout his upbringing, there was tension between his mother and nanny, both vying for his success as the future Shogun. The series recounts various events from Iemitsu's childhood to adulthood, detailing his journey to power.

Set in the Yoshiwara red-light district of Edo, this period drama follows four women from different professions who are proud of their community. They band together to seek retribution against men who mistreat the district's prostitutes.

This tale follows a skilled swordsman who faces challenges with a firm commitment to justice and sincere compassion for ordinary people. Despite residing in Edo for four years, Iwane continues to live in a row house next to a masterless samurai and his family, who often cause trouble for him. Commoners seek Iwane's assistance with various issues, and he happily resolves them while engaging in friendly interactions with them, including his former fiancée and a girl from the neighborhood who looks up to him. (NHK)

This tale follows a talented sword fighter who faces challenges with a firm commitment to fairness and a sincere compassion for the common people. Iwane, betrothed to Okon, is tasked with protecting the Shogun's heir apparent, who is poised to become the next ruler. Iwane endeavors to shield the Shogun's son from hired killers sent by the influential advisor aiming to increase his own political influence. (NHK)

The narrative revolves around the women connected to the Tokugawa shogun lineage, with a spotlight on Isonomiya Tomoko and her strategic marriage to the 10th shogun, Tokugawa Ieharu

Isobe Isobee is a student at a samurai school who aspires to become a renowned samurai, yet he constantly attempts to avoid putting in effort on a daily basis

The 48th NHK Taiga drama, titled Tenchijin, follows the life of Naoe Kanetsugu, a dedicated samurai in Echigo Province during the 16th century. Kanetsugu received training from Uesugi Kenshin in his youth and later served Kenshin's adopted son Kagekatsu with unwavering loyalty. Known for his strong sense of justice and compassion towards the common people, Kanetsugu worked tirelessly to protect the residents of Echigo. (NHK)

During the late Edo period, Futaboshi Hikoma, the astronomer of the Hirado domain, is known for his unique passion for the stars and the sea. When a lovely bride named Orie enters his life, Hikoma promises to cherish her forever. Sadly, Orie mysteriously disappears after only a short time of marriage. Little does Hikoma know, Orie is a skilled female ninja sent by the shogunate to investigate the Hirado domain for suspected illegal activities. The shogunate plans to punish the domain as a warning to others in the western regions. Unaware of this, Hikoma travels to Edo in search of his missing wife. Through a friend named Senemon, he meets Matsuura Seizan, the former feudal lord of Hirado, who warns Hikoma that he will harm Orie if she is found. Hikoma vows to protect his wife at all costs. To locate Orie, Hikoma takes on a role as an instructor at a local school and befriends a boy named Tarokichi. Meanwhile, strange occurrences, such as festival music playing at Seizan's residence at night, lead Hikoma and the children on a journey to uncover the truth. However, their investigation unknowingly brings them closer to the shogunate's hidden agenda.

A narrative depicting the challenges of establishing a business in Zhangjiakou centers around a trader named He Tian Bao, who remains steadfast in his convictions and practices the values instilled in him from a young age. (ChineseDrama.Info)

Taking place in Beijing during the early 1900s, three apprentice friends experience tumultuous lives

Illustrates the fierce conflicts among the female figures connected to Tokugawa Tsunayoshi, the fifth shogun.

The 45th NHK Taiga Drama, titled Komyo ga Tsuji, follows the story of Kazutoyo who lived during the final years of the Sengoku period (1546-1605). He was the inaugural feudal lord of the Tosa domain located on Shikoku Island, and served under Nobunaga Oda, Hideyoshi Toyotomi, and Tokugawa Ieyasu. His wife, Chiyo (1557-1617), was renowned for her loyalty and commitment to her husband, much like Matsu was to Toshiie in Toshiie to Matsu. Chiyo was the daughter of a samurai who was in the service of the feudal lord Asai.

Based on Morimura Seiichi's book series "Assassin Contractor Series" ( ).

Based on Yasuhide Saeki's novel "Secret Life Revealed: The Enigma of Kasumi Kanzuki".

During the Bunka-Bunsei era, the culture of the townspeople thrives as the 11th Tokugawa shogun Ienari's close advisers engage in corrupt administration, leading to a decline in public morals in Edo. Discontent among samurai families and local businessmen grows due to the increasing hardships faced by ordinary town residents. In the dead of night, a whistle suddenly pierces the air. Nezumi Kozo, a heroic thief, effortlessly escapes across rooftops with a box containing 1,000 ryo, which he then scatters over a sleeping, rundown tenement house. Nezumi Kozo's true identity is that of Jirokichi, a playboy with a strong sense of justice who interferes in cases purely out of his desire to see the people of Edo happy. This narrative is inspired by the novel series "Nezumi, Edo wo Hashiru" by Akagawa Jiro.

Taking place during the early 1800s in Edo Period Japan, the people are facing hardships under the rule of the Tokugawa shogunate

Fumi marries Genzui Kusaka and remains resilient during the tumultuous final days of the Tokugawa shogunate, striving to uphold the ideals of her older brother and intellectual, Shoin Yoshida.

NHK's 55th taiga drama series focuses on the life of Sanada Yukimura, who was born into a family of modest means in Shinsu (now Nagano Prefecture). Despite facing challenges during the Sengoku period, he used his intelligence, bravery, and hard work to become a highly respected samurai. During The Siege of Osaka, Sanada Yukimura built the fortress known as "Sanada Maru" near Osaka Castle, successfully defending against the larger army of Tokugawa Ieyasu.

Denshichi from Kuromoncho works under a police officer and uses a special purple truncheon to combat crime in the alleys of Edo. This truncheon was given to him by Inspector Toyama Saemon, who oversees Kitamachi. Denshichi focuses on punishing wrongdoing rather than the wrongdoers themselves and shows compassion and kindness. Despite his cheerful demeanor, he carries the burden of accidentally causing a person's death while trying to help another. This is why he emphasizes the importance of preserving life no matter the circumstances.

Ooka Echizen was a magistrate in the Edo period who backed the Kyoho Reforms proposed by the eighth shogun, Tokugawa Yoshimune. In addition to overseeing Edo, Ooka served on the judicial council and handled local government matters, as well as the management of temples and shrines. He dispensed justice with compassion and impartiality, earning a reputation for his fair and humane rulings known as Ooka Sabaki.

Based on Morimura Seiichi's "Assassin Contractor Series," a collection of novels.

The 50th NHK Taiga drama is titled Gou, which centers around the life of Gou, who was married to the second Tokugawa shogun Hidetada. Gou was the third daughter of the daimyo Azai Nagamasa and was related to Oda Nobunaga through marriage. Her sisters were married to Toyotomi Hideyoshi and daimyo Kyogoku Takatsugu. (Tokyograph)

This series is inspired by the tale of Lu Bu and Diao Chan from the novel Romance of the Three Kingdoms. (DramaWiki)

The defiant Crimson Blossom Alliance, headed by the captivating Chan Gar Lok, endeavors to eliminate Emperor Qian Lung of the Ching Dynasty. Despite preparations by Chan and his comrades to fulfill their mission, an unexpected revelation results in a intense confrontation, leading to Chan's banishment to the western border where he meets the renowned Princess Fragrance. Collaborating with the nomads, Chan orchestrates a bold comeback to the imperial city and devises a daring scheme to finally seize control of Qian Lung.

In 1868, discussions between the shogunate and the new government lead to the agreement to hand over Edo Castle. Kakurai Hayato, a hesitant warrior from Owari supporting the government forces, is tasked with overseeing the smooth surrender of the castle. The only issue is a retainer named Matooya Rokubei who refuses to leave. Rokubei, a former guard of the shogun, remains seated and only moves to attend to personal needs. Due to promises made to Saigo Takamori and Katsu Kaishu, disputes within the castle are prohibited, making it impossible to remove Rokubei by force. As Kakurai spends more time with the man, he begins to develop a strange understanding and respect for Rokubei's traditional demeanor.

In the beginning of Emperor Qian Long's rule, the nation's food supply faces a severe crisis due to suspicious activities in the production and distribution processes. Liu Tong Xun, an official from the Ministry of Punishment under the Qing court, is tasked with leading an investigation across the country. Mi He, the son of Official Mi Ru Cheng, was confined in their attic for three years by his father to focus on his studies. With the help of Xiao Shu Zi, a lively and carefree individual, Mi He manages to escape and is determined to become a righteous government official dedicated to serving the people's best interests. Through his intelligence and commitment, Mi He earns the respect of Liu Tong Xun and his colleagues as they work together to address the issues in the nation's granary.

Following the confrontation at Xuan Wu Gate with his siblings Li Jian Cheng and Li Yuan Ji, Li Shi Min ascended to the throne as the second emperor of the Tang dynasty, adopting the era title Zhen Guan. Despite facing obstacles and internal disputes, his rule ushered in a period of stability and prosperity for the nation and its citizens.

The 39th NHK Taiga Drama is titled Aoi Tokugawa Sandai. This series, written by James Miki, follows the story of three generations of the Tokugawa family, starting from its founder Ieyasu to Iemitsu, the third Shogun who strengthened the Tokugawa dynasty. (DramaWiki)

The Tenpo era marks the conclusion of the Edo period. Despite facing financial challenges on a daily basis, Nobu, the humble wife of Katsuie, maintains a cheerful demeanor. In this period, social status does not dictate relationships, and Nobu's kind heart is truly commendable. Katsukichi, my husband, is a skilled marksman with robust arms that are hard to dislike. I cannot help but adore Koiyoshi. Kokichi is supported by his radiance, carefree attitude, wisdom, and drive in facing life's challenges. Meanwhile, their son Rintaro observes his parents with a calm and intelligent demeanor. Inheriting righteousness from his father, Katsu Kaifune, Rintaro is determined to protect the people of Edo, displaying a love that transcends his mother's social standing.

During the Edo period, Nagasaki grew into a cosmopolitan hub frequented by Westerners engaging in trade. Interpreters played a crucial role in facilitating negotiations and gathering information. In the 2nd year of Kaei (1849), a young man named Ijima Sota journeyed from Edo to Nagasaki in search of his missing father. Sota, known for his inquisitive nature, was learning English at a private school when he stumbled upon a revelation about his father. With the support of his friends, he devised a plan to uncover the truth.

During the Tenpo era at the end of the Edo period, there was a strong focus on reform. Katsuya Kokichi is known for his powerful arms, while his wife Onobu admires them when questioned. Despite facing financial struggles, she maintains a cheerful demeanor. Their son Rintaro is intelligent and ambitious, aiming to study Dutch in order to one day help the people of Edo as "Katsu Kaishu." Interestingly, he has recently developed feelings for a geisha from Fukagawa.

Based on Yoshinaga Fumi's manga "Ooku" ( ).

The 44th NHK Taiga Drama revolves around the story of Minamoto no Yoshitsune, a military leader from the Minamoto clan of Japan during the late Heian and early Kamakura periods. Born in 1159, Yoshitsune was the ninth son of Minamoto no Yoshitomo, with his older brother Minamoto no Yoritomo being the founder of the Kamakura shogunate.

Taking place in Qing Dynasty Twatutia from 1868 to 1888, this drama centers around key historical events such as the Sino-French War of 1883 to 1885 and the Mudan Incident of 1874. Zhi Kuan, a member of a well-known family, manages a successful herbal medicine shop and tea plantations. The harmony of Zhi Kuan and his wife Li Jun's marriage is tested when his former lover Yu Juan, who is a spy for the king, resurfaces after 20 years, along with Zhi Kuan's daughter Xin Lan.

The final years of the Ming dynasty were a dark period in Chinese history marked by deceit and conspiracy. Emperor Xizong, who reluctantly held the throne, was more interested in carpentry than ruling. This allowed the manipulative eunuch Wei Zhong Xian and his allies to abuse their power through blackmail and torture. When Yang Lian, a close associate of Qian Jia Yi and Murong Qiu, fell victim to Wei Zhong Xian, the two friends sought revenge with the help of others. However, their plans became complicated when they discovered a plot to assassinate the emperor, leading them into a tangled web of betrayal. As they delved deeper into the situation, they realized that appearances could be deceiving.

During the Ming Dynasty in China, Emperor Zheng De, a young ruler, seeks thrills to combat his boredom. His uncle, Prince of Ning, takes advantage of his carefree nature by plotting a rebellion against him. To monitor the situation, Imperial Guards Commander General Yu Hao Cheng dispatches undercover agents to gather intelligence on the prince. Unfortunately, the agents are discovered and killed. Now, Yu Tian, the General's stepson and a skilled swordsman, must step in to save the kingdom. Disguised as Murong Zhen, he infiltrates Ning Wang's domain, only to face an unexpected obstacle - falling in love with the Prince's daughter, Xiao Ying.

"The Book of Five Rings" by Miyamoto Musashi, a renowned 17th-century work on strategy and leadership, gained popularity among business executives centuries later. Musashi, orphaned at a young age, honed his martial arts skills and fought on the losing side during the Battle of Sekigahara. Evading capture, he spent years traveling and mastering the sword. His reputation attracted challengers, including Sasaki Kojiro, with whom he engaged in a legendary duel at Ganryujima.

Following the demise of the Huo family, Chen Zhen took his master's only heir, Huo Dong Jue, and departed Shanghai to find sanctuary in Peking in disguise. Assuming the alias Cheng Zhi En, he worked as a servant in the Fang household, devoted to nurturing Huo Dong Jue into a skilled individual with expertise in both civil and military affairs, carrying on the legacy of the Huo family. Initially able to live discreetly and maintain a cordial relationship with Miss Fang Jia and former Qingwu champion Huang Fu, Chen Zhen found himself drawn into national affairs as the conflict between Fang Jia, the Alliance Spinning Factory, and the Hongkou Gang escalated.

The narrative centers around Pu Di Liu, a resident of the border region encompassing Guizhou, Hunan, and Chongqing from 1927 to 1950

The drama portrays the story of Zhang Ju Zheng, a renowned figure during the Ming Dynasty. In the hierarchical society of ancient China, few prime ministers rise to power from modest beginnings like Zhang Ju Zheng. He mentors the young emperor in implementing important changes, but faces opposition to his reforms. As a consequence of his decisions, his family suffers the consequences. His tragic fate serves as a precursor to the decline of the Ming Dynasty.

Season 4 of The Eloquent Ji Xiaolan includes the stories: Xiaoyue's Homecoming, The Revolution that Wasn't, The Written Conversation Case, and Loyalty Temple. Ji Xiao Lan, a wise scholar who upholds justice fairly, Emperor Qian Long from the Kangxi-Qianlong era, and the corrupt He Shen, who accepts bribes and twists the law, once again engage in hilarious yet profound tragicomedies. (Ruyi Films)