20 Best Japanese Dramas of All Time

While Korean dramas have found a loving audience around the world, Japanese dramas continue to be awaited by its fans. In recent years, worldwide tv channel has been graced by Japanese dramas.

Japanese dramas have evolved, offering a variety of interesting storylines. They no longer limit themselves to clichéd romantic stories; instead, they expand into exciting genres such as detective, crime thriller, and fantasy fiction.

For those looking for suspenseful and engaging Japanese dramas, Showpoiler has compiled a list of the best options. To satisfy your curiosity, check out our reviews below!

1. Brush Up Life

If you're looking for the best Japanese drama of 2023, "Brush Up Life" is our top pick. The drama has earned impressive ratings, with an 8.5 on both IMDb and MyDramalist.

The cast of "Brush Up Life" is undeniable. Sakura Ando, the lead actress, is famous for her roles in various dramas since 2007. What sets this drama apart is its interesting blend of fantasy elements, making it even more intriguing.

The storyline revolves around Kondo Asami, a 33-year-old woman who seems ordinary. She lives with her parents and works at the city hall, living an unremarkable life.

However, Asami's life changes dramatically when she wakes up one day in an obstetrics clinic. Surprisingly, she finds herself reliving her life from childhood, with her parents looking young once again. Confused by this unexplained phenomenon, Asami embarks on a quest to return to her original age and form. The question is: how can she travel back?

2. Hold My Hand at Twilight

Are you familiar with Good Doctor (2018)? Well, "Hold My Hand at Twilight" has the same director as "Good Doctor," Ko Kanai. That's a strong indicator of the quality you can expect.

The story of "Hold My Hand at Twilight" centers on Asagi Soramame, a vibrant and cheerful woman who has spent her entire life in a remote village in Kyushu. One day, driven by her desire to reunite with her fiancé in Tokyo, Asagi sets out for the crowded metropolitan city.

However, Tokyo proves to be overwhelming for Asagi, as she is not used to city life. In a state of confusion, she meets a man named Umino Oto. At first thinking their meeting was just a coincidence, they soon discover that they share the same dormitory. As they spend more time together, their love blossoms. So, how about the fate of Asagi's fiancé?

3. First Love: Hatsukoi

First Love: Hatsukoi takes inspiration from Utada Hikaru's iconic songs, "First Love" and "Hatsukoi". This Netflix original drama features well-known actors Takeru Sato and Hikari Mitsuhima, who deliver captivating performances.

The narrative is about a couple reliving their first love. It all started in the 1990s, when Yae Noguchi and Harumichi Namiki first met and fell in love while still in high school.

After graduating high school, Yae continued her education at a university in Tokyo, while Harumichi chose to join the Japanese Defense Forces and enroll in a flight academy. These choices led them to different paths, causing their relationship to slowly break down.

However, a tragic accident erased all of Yae's memories of Harumichi. For two decades, they lived separate lives without communication. However, fate had other plans. Yae, now a widow with a child, finds herself reunited with Harumichi. In this twist of fate, love rekindles between the two.

4. 30-sai made Dotei Da to Mahotsukai ni Nareru rashii

This drama explores the theme of boys love, with a focus on same-sex romance. "Cherry Magic" has gained significant popularity as one of the most well-known BL dramas since 2020. This prompted a remake by GMMTV, a Thai BL drama agency. What makes it appealing, you ask? Probably because of its simple yet captivating storyline.

After personally watching the drama, it was very sweet, with less scenes that were overly romantic. Instead, I found myself looking forward to charming and often humorous romantic moments.

The story begins with Adachi, a man approaching his 30s, who has become the subject of mockery due to his lack of sexual experience. His friend jokingly warns him that remaining a virgin at 30 will give him supernatural powers.

Adachi doesn't believe the idea at first, but on his 30th birthday, something extraordinary happens-he suddenly gains the ability to read other people's minds just by touching them.

Adachi accidentally makes physical contact with a coworker, Yuichi Kurosawa, he instantly knows Yuichi's thoughts. He reveals that Yuichi has been holding feelings for Adachi all along.

Knowing that he is the object of affection for the most accomplished and popular employee in the office makes Adachi feel confused and uncomfortable, especially since they are both men. What does the future hold for their romance?

5. Alice in Borderland 2

Following the success of its first season, Netflix finally released the highly anticipated second season of "Alice in Borderland," which continues Arisu and Usagi's harrowing journey.

Having followed the drama series closely, I have to admit that the second season takes the brutality to another level, not only in terms of deadly challenges but also in the rollercoaster of emotions it inflicts on the audience.

After Arisu, Usagi, Kuin, Ann, Chisiya, and their comrades survived the Ten of Hearts challenge, they now face a series of more dangerous trials. The Face Cards have appeared, introducing a merciless game. Without warning, a Face Card in the shape of the King of Diamonds begins the game by indiscriminately targeting the participants in Borderland.

As a result of this chaos, Arisu finds himself separated from his group. Whether he likes it or not, he must now navigate this treacherous terrain with the remaining trio: Usagi, Ann, and Tatta. In an attempt to extend their visas, the four of them split up and engage in their respective games.

However, among all the Face Card challenges, there is one that stands out as a particularly formidable opponent-the Queen of Hearts card. Revealing a surprising twist, it turns out that the Queen of Hearts card is under the control of Kino, a high-ranking official in Beach.

This development raises questions about Kino's motives as a playmaker in Borderland. Will Usagi and Arisu manage to conquer the challenge posed by the Queen of Hearts?

6. Kotaro Lives Alone

Kotaro Lives Alone, also known as Kotaro wa Hitori gurashi, is a live-action adaptation of a manga series by Tsumura Mami. As I watched the series, I couldn't help but notice many profound life lessons and moral messages that resonated deeply with me. I found myself empathizing and admiring Kotaro's character in this drama.

The story revolves around a 5-year-old boy named Sato Kotaro, who lives independently in a modest apartment with absolutely no adult supervision.

One day, Kotaro's neighbor Karino Shin discovers that there is a boy living alone. At first, Karino doesn't pay much attention to him, but as she engages in many conversations with Kotaro, her conscience begins to stir.

Driven by curiosity as to why Kotaro lives alone without parental guidance, Karino finally decides to investigate Kotaro's situation. After discovering the reason behind Kotaro's solitude, Karino feels compelled to help him.

As Kotaro gradually puts his trust in Karino, the unexpected happens: Kotaro's parents express their desire to take care of him once again, but Kotaro refuses. What is the reason behind Kotaro's refusal?

7. Avataro Sentai Donbrothers

This drama is very long with 50 episodes! Even so, Avataro Sentai Donbrothers still has a lot of fans as evidenced by the 8.1 rating from iMDb. And, if you pay attention, it's actually similar to Power Rangers only it has a more unique story.

The story of this drama begins with Haruko Kito. She is a high school student who mysteriously gains superpowers. And at that moment, Haruko was suddenly approached by a mysterious person named Momoi Jin. This Jin apparently knows Haruko's power and asks Haruko to find her son, Momoi Taro.

Even though she felt confused, in the end Haruko carried out the mission. In fact, Haruko now promises to be loyal to Jin. Even more surprisingly, it turns out that now Haruko Kito has joined as one of the five heroes to fight the devil. Apparently, Haruko's power has a name, namely Avataro Gears. Then, will Haruko be able to carry out her mission as a superhero?

8. Three Star Bar in Nishi Ogikubo

This interesting drama revolves around the lives of three main characters: Amamiya, Nakauchi, and Kobayashi. First, there's Amamiya, who works as a skilled bartender at a local bar. Nakauchi, on the other hand, is a talented chef who recently abandoned his culinary career due to losing his sense of taste. Lastly, Kobayashi, a struggling writer whose professional journey seems to be going downhill.

Despite their different backgrounds, fate brings these three people together, leading them to embark on an interesting business venture. They decide to take over a bar previously owned by Kobayashi's grandfather, although on a unique condition - the lease of the place will only continue for as long as the supplies of canned food in the bar's warehouse.

Agreeing to the deal, Amamiya, Nakauchi, and Kobayashi jumped right into the business venture. Remarkably, their combined talent and dedication resulted in the bar's incredible success.

However, they must always remember that their time in the bar industry is limited, as the supply of canned food in the warehouse is running low. This overshadowing reality forced them to contemplate their future after the canned food reserves ran out. What awaits them after this crucial moment arrives?

9. Tokyo MER

For those looking for a gripping Japanese drama with a medical background, Tokyo MER might be the right choice. The drama revolves around the exploits of a special unit set up by the Governor of Tokyo, known as MER.

MER, which stands for Mobile Emergency Room, consists of a team of highly skilled medical professionals. Their main mission is to deploy teams to locations in dire need of medical assistance, ranging from routine accidents to large-scale disasters.

At the center of the drama is Dr. Kitami Kota, the leader of the Tokyo MER unit. As a devoted doctor, Kitami consistently does his best to save patients' lives, even if it means putting himself in dangerous situations. Guided by the unwavering belief that his job is to save lives, he fearlessly takes challenging risks.

However, Kitami's journey is far from smooth, marked by several encounters with difficulties that demand his expertise in handling them. Can he navigate the treacherous terrain of this high-stakes profession and emerge unscathed?

10. Life's Punchline

Japan has a knack for creating compelling narratives in the slice of life genre. In this drama, we get a glimpse into the lives of five young people in their late twenties. Initially, the group consists of just three friends: Haruto, Shunta, and Junpei.

They had formed a friendship during their school days and decided to venture into comedy as a trio known as Macbeth. Unfortunately, their comedic dreams are shattered.

While creating comedy sketches for the Macbeth group, the trio often visits the restaurant where Rihoko works. Through a twist of fate, the Macbeth trio became acquainted with Rihoko's younger brother, Tsumugi.

As time passes, Tsumugi gradually integrates himself into the Macbeth trio's circle, and Rihoko, who witnesses their growing closeness, joins in as well. Now, the five of them embark on a journey to support each other. They often find solace in sharing each other's life challenges.

So, what lies ahead for the Macbeth trio's career? Do they give up on their dreams, or do they persist in pursuing their comedy dreams?

11. The Makanai: Cooking for the Maiko House

This charming story revolves around two inseparable female friends, Kiyo and Sumire, both from Aomori, who share the same goal-to become maiko. Determined to realize their dreams, Kiyo and Sumire embark on a journey to Kyoto.

Unfortunately, during their training, Kiyo faces many challenges in mastering the basic arts of being a maiko, unlike her fast-learning partner Sumire, who quickly develops into a proficient maiko. Initially discouraged, Kiyo refuses to give up and, over time, she discovers her hidden talent-culinary skills, specifically as a chef for the maiko.

Kiyo's culinary skills are soon recognized and celebrated. In the end, Kiyo and Sumire choose to continue working at the same place, even though they have different professional paths.

12. Silent

Silent, a Japanese drama gracing the screen in 2022, is directed by Hiroki Kazama, who is known for his previous work on popular dramas such as "Swim Ring: More Than Friends, Less Than An Affair" (2021). Its success is undoubtedly linked to its star-studded cast, which features well-known figures such as Haruna Kawaguchi, Ren Meguro, Ryoko Shinohara, and more.

Despite starring talented actors and actresses, the core of the drama revolves around two main characters: Tsumugi Aoba (Haruna Kawaguchi) and So Sakura (Ren Meguro). Tsumugi has harbored a deep affection for Sakura since their middle school days, based on their shared interest in music. However, as their relationship blossomed, Sakura suddenly disappeared from Tsumugi's life.

Fast forward eight years, and Tsumugi finds himself working in Tokyo, balancing a full-time job while moonlighting at a sprawling music CD store, a place filled with the melodies he adores.

Fate reunites the pair, but Tsumugi makes a shocking discovery-Sakura is struggling with severe hearing loss, nearly deaf. Overwhelmed by this, how will Tsumugi navigate the complex emotions that occur when dealing with Sakura's condition?

13. If My Wife Becomes an Elementary School Student

This drama is an adaptation of the manga series of the same name by Yayu Murata, which debuted on August 10, 2018. The drama tells the story of a couple who, after a decade of separation, find themselves reunited.

The story is about Takae and his daughter, Mai, who have been grappling with emptiness since his wife left their lives. Their days feel lethargic and purposeless. However, the somber mood takes a dramatic turn when a 10-year-old elementary school kid enters their world.

Astonishingly, this child claimed to be Keisuke, Takae's wife. Of course, both Takae and Mai found it hard to believe this statement. Nevertheless, the girl's behavior strongly suggests that she is indeed Keisuke's reincarnation. She showed an astonishing familiarity with Takae and Mai's lives, in fact, the child memorized everything about both Takae and Mai.

From then on, Takae and Mai's once ordinary lives became colorful. In fact, Keisuke's reincarnated presence revives the long-dimmed harmony between father and daughter.

14. Towako Omameda and Her Three Ex-Husbands

This drama stands out for its unique production approach, led by three different directors - Kazuhito Nakae, Chihiro Ikeda, and Yusuke Taki. However, the story remains solid, providing a distinctive blend of comedy interwoven with valuable life lessons, especially regarding the complexities of marriage.

The movie's narrative revolves around the life of Omameda Towako, played by Matsu Takako, a woman who has gone through divorce three times. As a result, she has become a prominent topic of gossip in her neighborhood. Despite being labeled as a "troubled" woman, Towako remains unaffected and maintains an optimistic outlook on life.

Today, she shares her life with her 15-year-old daughter, and strives to make the most of her circumstances. Remarkably, she has risen to the position of President at construction company Shirokuma Housing.

And what is interesting in Towako's life is the presence of her three ex-husbands-a butler, a lawyer, and a photographer-who never really left her world. They remain, offering Towako unwavering support, even looming over her as she tries to explore new romantic prospects.

This drama invites viewers to dive into Towako's life with her three ex-husbands. The main question that arises is how Towako navigates her relationship with her three ex-spouses and whether they can maintain a close bond despite their complicated histories.

15. She Loves to Cook, and She Loves to Eat

At the center of this drama are the two main characters, Nomoto and Kasuga, who unexpectedly develop a deep bond through their love of food. Nomoto is a woman who uses cooking as a means to find pleasure and relieve the stress in her life. Cooking becomes her escape from the pressures that weigh her down.

One day, she finds herself with an abundance of food and invites her neighbor Kasuga, who also lives alone, to help her finish the food. Kasuga eagerly accepted the offer, and from then on, the relationship between Nomoto and Kasuga began to develop.

They realized that food, often considered a basic necessity, can be a powerful tool for building connections and friendships. In fact, their friendship goes far beyond the realm of cooking and eating together; they open up to each other about their problems, share their hopes and dreams, and offer each other unwavering support.

16. Don't Call It a Mystery

Don't Label It as a Mystery also known as Mystery to Iunakare, is an adaptation of a manga series by Yumi Tamura. The drama featuring Masaki Suda unfolds a mysterious story centered on Ancient Totono.

The main character of the drama is Totono Kuno, a rather introverted individual who has no friends or romantic partners. Despite his solitary existence, Totono possesses a remarkable talent for logical analysis and observation.

This unique ability comes to the surface when Totono is accused of a murder that occurred near his home. During his interrogation by the police, Totono keenly observes several important clues that could clear him of this serious charge.

However, things get even more complicated when the police find a gun with Totono's fingerprints on it. Now, Totono struggles to prove his innocence. In this difficult situation, he once again utilizes his analytical skills to unlock the mystery.

17. Rokuhoudou Colorful days

This drama tells the story of four men who are entrusted with taking care of a traditional Japanese cafe. This unique place has a calm and soothing atmosphere, filled with the aromas of tea, coffee, delicious dishes, and delectable desserts.

It's no surprise that Rokuhoudou captivates its visitors, offering not only culinary delights but also a place to unwind. Here, customers find solace in sharing their life stories, and they often receive solutions in return.

First among the quartet is Sui, the cafe owner, who patiently listens to his customers' complaints. Then there is Tokitaka, a skilled chef who provides comfort through his culinary creations. Gure, with his friendly nature, instills a sense of peace to anyone around him. Lastly, Tsubaki excels at making desserts that bring joy to their customers.

Although these four cafe owners seem friendly and carefree, they also grapple with complicated issues in their own lives. Nevertheless, Sui, Tokitaka, Gure, and Tsubaki manage to maintain their professionalism while meeting the needs of their customers. How long can they endure the troubles of own problems?

18. The World Where Only I'm 17 Years Old

Beyond its romantic elements, the 2020 drama, "The World Where I'm Only 17 Years Old," offers a touch of fantasy. The narrative begins with the friendship of two people, Kota and Mei, they have been friends since childhood and developed romantic feelings until high school. Unfortunately, during the third year of high school, Kota passed away.

As time passed, seven years had passed since Kota's passing, and Mei had embarked on her own personal journey, now as a 24-year-old woman. One day, Mei returned to her hometown and visited the cherry blossom trees, a place full of memories of Kota. She was surprised to meet Kota, who seemed to be frozen in time.

Amazingly, Kota has not aged and remains like a 17-year-old high school student, both in appearance and mindset. Adding to this puzzle is the strange fact that Kota can only appear under cherry blossom trees when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom. What will she do with this unexpected reunion?

19. Honest Real Estate

This comedy-drama delves into the professional lives of Nagase Saichi and Tsukishita Sakura, two employees at a leading real estate agency. At their workplace, they share a senior-junior dynamic and are known for their contrasting approaches to their work.

Nagase Saichi is the top-performing real estate agent at the agency, and consistently takes first place. He has a good reputation as a reliable and honest worker. However, his honesty often makes his work more challenging and sometimes puts his position in danger.

On the other hand, Tsukishita Sakura, Saichi's junior, has the drive and passion to climb the corporate ladder. Despite her exceptional talent, she is perplexed by what she considers Saichi's commitment to honesty to be "inefficient". In fact, Sakura considers honesty more of an obstacle than a good thing.

Despite their frequent disagreements, both are driven to excel in their roles. They often encounter individuals with different backgrounds and work ethics, from doubtful clients to manipulative coworkers. Together, they must overcome these obstacles and uphold the integrity of their profession.

20. Gannibal

Seasoned with elements of mystery and suspense, Gannibal is a drama adaptation of the popular manga of the same name. The story follows the adventures of Agawa Daigo, a young policeman who is transferred to the remote village of Kuge. Daigo deliberately visits this place because it turns out that Kuge is the place where his senior suddenly disappeared without a trace.

When Agawa Daigo arrives at the village, he notices many strange things. He quickly realized that the atmosphere in this village was far from normal. The people are divided into two conflicting camps. The first camp was the Goto family, who had great power and influence in the village. The second camp were the ordinary citizens who preferred to stay away from the Goto family.

Ever since he first set foot in Kuge village, Daigo felt something odd about the Goto family. He hears stories about a terrible mystery that claimed several villagers-including his seniors. Eventually, Daigo begins to suspect that the Goto family might be responsible for the disappearance of the villagers and his senior. What did the Goto family do?

Those are the 20 best Japanese dramas of all time that you must watch in your spare time. Not inferior to Korean dramas, Japan also has a large selection of exciting dramas to watch. Of the 20 dramas above, which one do you want to watch?