Here is an exciting ranking of the top Japanese television drama shows, showcasing the cream of the crop. Get ready to delve into the captivating world of these shows, complete with stunning pictures. Japanese TV dramas have captured the hearts of viewers for countless years, sparking lively discussions about which show reigns supreme in terms of entertainment. It’s time to ensure your beloved shows don’t end up at the bottom of the list – let’s give them the recognition they deserve! Discover intriguing tidbits about the incredible cast, talented creators, and the dazzling premiere dates of each show. Brace yourself for remarkable gems like Scrap Teacher and Engine. Prepare to uncover the answers to the burning questions: “Which Japanese television drama show stands as the ultimate masterpiece?” and “What are the most remarkable Japanese television drama shows ever made?”
1. Hunter x Hunter
Hunter x Hunter (FNS, 1999) is a Japanese action anime TV series that follows the thrilling journey of Gon Freecss, a determined young boy. Inspired by the manga created by Yoshihiro Togash, this show is brought to life by the talented team at Nippon Animation studio.
Gon embarks on an epic adventure with one goal in mind – to become a Hunter and locate his long-lost father. This gripping storyline takes viewers on a rollercoaster ride, as Gon encounters various challenges and encounters throughout his quest.
Premiered: 1999
Actors: Junko Takeuchi, Hiroki Takahashi, Hozumi Gōda
2. Tokyo Alice
Four former classmates, now embarking on their individual journeys, intertwine their love lives, professional pursuits, and personal interests in a series of captivating romances.
Premiered: August 25, 2017
Actors: Mizuki Yamamoto, Reina Triendl, Aya Asahina
3. The Makanai: Cooking for the Maiko House
Two friends move to Kyoto and follow their individual passions while sharing a house.
Premiered: January 12, 2023
Actors: Nana Mori, Natsuki Deguchi, Aju Makita
4. Kantaro: The Sweet Tooth Salaryman
Kantaro: The Sweet Tooth Salaryman (Netflix, 2017) is a hilarious Japanese comedy drama that was coproduced by Netflix and TV Tokyo. This series is based on the popular manga series called Saboriman Ametani Kantarou, which was written by Tensei Hagiwara and illustrated by Inoue ABD. It tells the story of a book salesman who leads a secret double life: while he should be at work, he sneaks away to indulge in his passion for writing about delicious sweets on his blog.
Premiered: 2017
Actors: Matsuya Onoe, Ren Ishikawa, Sarutoki Minagawa
5. The Journalist
A maverick newspaper reporter defiantly chases the truth.
Premiered: January 13, 2022
Actors: Ryôko Yonekura, Gô Ayano, Ryûsei Yokohama
6. Good Luck!!
Good Luck!! is a Japanese TV drama from 2003 that features Takuya Kimura and Kou Shibasaki in the lead roles. The show follows the journey of Hajime Shinkai, a promising pilot, as he strives to become a captain. Combining drama, romance, and comedy, this series captures the challenges and relationships faced by those in the aviation industry. It sheds light on the tough realities of being a pilot or cabin crew, highlighting the immense responsibility they carry for the lives of thousands of people.
Premiered: 2003
Actors: Kou Shibasaki, Naoto Takenaka, Takuya Kimura
7. Hero
Hero, a Japanese drama series, was broadcasted on Fuji TV in 2001. This show broke the record for the highest TV drama ratings in Japan in the past 25 years. Such was its popularity that it led to a 2006 miniseries and a feature film called Hero: The Movie, which ranked #3 on the top grossing film chart in Japan for 2007.
Exciting news for fans of the series! Starting from July 2014, Fuji TV plans to air a second series titled Hero 2, featuring the return of the talented actor Kimura Takuya in his iconic role.
Premiered: 2001
Actors: Takako Matsu, Hiroshi Abe, Takuya Kimura