Theme songs from morning dramas: The historical main themes of NHK’s Morning Drama Series
NHK’s morning drama series—nicknamed “Asadora”—is an essential part of mornings in Japan.
People of all ages watch it, and it always becomes a major talking point.
The theme songs that open each episode and color the drama draw attention alongside the story itself.
In this article, we’ll introduce the history of Asadora theme songs, from past works to the latest series.
You might even find the song that used to be your morning BGM.
Take a look back at the history of Asadora through its music!
- [2000–2009] A roundup of theme songs from popular dramas!
- Theme Songs of NHK Taiga Dramas Through the Years: The Allure of Music That Colors Historical Stories
- Complete List of Ending Themes from “Okaasan to Issho” (All-Time)
- A comprehensive look at all the theme songs from Mezamashi TV and Mezamashi Doyoubi throughout the years!
- Popular love song themes from Monday 9 p.m. dramas. Including the theme song from that smash-hit drama.
- [Nostalgic Songs] A compilation of classic anime themes that hit home for those born in the Showa and Heisei eras
- Theme and insert songs from Japanese films. Masterpieces and popular tracks of Japanese movie music.
- [Fiery Classics] Super Sentai Theme Songs: All-Time Opening & Ending Themes
- The nostalgic atmosphere tugs at your heartstrings. Tear-jerker songs from the Showa era.
- Theme and insert songs from the long-running Monday 9 p.m. dramas: classic hits from popular series and recommended fan favorites
- A big hit with kids! A collection of songs that gets everyone pumped for childcare and recreation
- [2010–2019] A roundup of theme songs from popular dramas
- Songs That Bring Back the Shows: Beloved Drama Theme Songs
Theme Songs from Morning Dramas: Historical Opening Themes of NHK’s Morning Serial TV Novel (1–10)
rainbow-coloredayaka
Ayaka’s “Nijiiro” was written as the theme song for the NHK morning drama Hanako to Anne, in which Yuriko Yoshitaka played Hanako Muraoka, the translator of Anne of Green Gables.
Released in 2014 as her 13th single, it reached No.
8 on the Oricon Singles Chart.
With an irresistibly singable pop melody and sound, and lyrics that evoke a bright future, it’s a beloved song that warms the heart.
It’s a perfect track to start your day in the morning!
I love youback number
This heartwarming number was written as the theme song for NHK’s morning drama “Soar!” starring Haruka Fukuhara.
Through everyday scenes—like fallen leaves in the park and the bakery by the station—it portrays a clumsy yet profound love for someone dear, drawing listeners into its gentle world.
Produced by Takeshi Kobayashi, the song was released in October 2022 and was later included on the album “Humor.” It’s a warm, moving track that makes the ordinary days feel precious.
Rain, then Sunshine Hallelujahyuzu
Yuzu’s “Ame nochi Hareruya” was chosen as the theme song for the 2013 NHK morning drama series Gochisousan, which portrays the food cultures of Kanto and Kansai and the love within a family.
Released as a double A-side single with “Mamotte Agetai,” it reached No.
3 on the Oricon singles chart and won the Excellence Award at the 56th Japan Record Awards.
Its lyrics about love resonate with the drama’s story, and listening to it gives you a warm feeling.
In the middle of the song, the melody of “Tōki Yama ni Hi wa Ochite” is quoted, adding a touch of poignancy to this masterpiece.
[Asadora Theme Songs] Opening Themes from NHK’s Morning Drama Series (11–20)
That gentle girlsupittsu
The song chosen as the theme for the milestone 100th Asadora, starring Suzu Hirose, is Spitz’s “Yasashii Ano Ko.” It’s their 42nd single and it reached No.
1 on the Oricon Singles Chart.
Since the drama is set in postwar Hokkaido, the lyrics of “Yasashii Ano Ko” also incorporate Ainu words.
It’s an upbeat track with a bouncy rhythm that lifts your spirits, so be sure to give it a listen!
365 Days’ Paper AirplaneAKB48
“365 Nichi no Kamihikōki” (365-Day Paper Airplane) is a song by AKB48 released in 2015, included as a B-side on their 42nd single “Kuchibiru ni Be My Baby.” It was written as the theme song for the NHK morning drama “Asa ga Kita,” starring Haru.
The song even surpassed the title track “Kuchibiru ni Be My Baby” in download numbers.
With its acoustic, simple sound, it’s also known as a graduation song and is popular at graduation ceremonies and weddings.
You and Turattatta♪DREAMS COME TRUE
“Anata to Turattatta♪” is the 53rd single by DREAMS COME TRUE, released in 2018.
The song was written specifically as the theme for that year’s NHK morning drama series “Manpuku,” and it reached No.
9 on the Oricon singles chart.
Its blend of marching-band sounds with DREAMS COME TRUE’s distinctive aesthetic is particularly striking.
The playful lyrics—full of tears and laughter—also evoke “Fukuko,” the heroine portrayed by Sakura Ando in the drama.
Dear sunshine—my precious youHirahara Ayaka
Ayaka Hirahara’s vocals, which gently embrace the heart with sun-like warmth, are especially memorable.
In this piece, screenwriter Yoshikazu Okada penned the lyrics himself, creating a song overflowing with maternal affection for someone dear.
Its gentle melody seems to convey the happiness found in everyday moments and the preciousness of thinking of someone.
The track served as the theme song for the NHK morning drama series “Ohisama,” starring Mao Inoue.
Initially it aired as an instrumental, but a sung version was later produced in response to strong viewer demand—a lovely anecdote in itself.