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
[Asadora Theme Songs] Historical Main Themes of NHK’s Morning Drama Series (21–30)
See you again sometime!Yonezu Kenshi
A track that’s made waves as the theme song for NHK’s morning drama series “Tora ni Tsubasa.” Its heartfelt lyrics and distinctive melody leave a strong impression.
Centered on parting and reunion, it powerfully expresses life’s changes and hope.
Released in April 2024, it’s a song by Kenshi Yonezu, and reportedly his first time providing a morning drama theme.
The piece conveys the strength to overcome suffering and pain and move forward toward the future.
It’s a perfect song to listen to while watching the morning drama and reflecting on your own life.
Threads of FateTakeuchi Mariya
The 37th single, written as the theme song for NHK’s morning drama series “Dandan.” Its warm lyrics, which connect with the storyline, and the gentle melody that colors them leave a strong impression.
The message—singing of the mysterious ways people meet and the precious bonds tied by invisible threads—truly resonates.
Released in November 2008 to mark her 30th anniversary since debut, the song was later included on the acclaimed album “TRAD.” Crafted by her husband, Tatsuro Yamashita, it’s a triplet-based rock ballad in which Japanese sentiment and Western sophistication blend beautifully.
A heartwarming number to listen to when you want to reaffirm your connection with someone important.
Season of LoveAnjura Aki
A hopeful love ballad that portrays the rebirth of love alongside the changing seasons.
Angela Aki’s warm yet powerful vocals gently envelop the listener’s heart.
The beautiful melody of the piano not only evokes the thrill of the season of new encounters, but also reminds us of the preciousness of love that never changes, no matter the time.
Released in September 2009 as her ninth single, this song was used as the theme for the NHK morning drama Tsubasa and was later included on the album LIFE.
It’s the perfect number for those who want to reaffirm their bond with someone special or find the courage to take a new step forward.
Nizon—Rare Sky—gasshou
Set in Ishikawa Prefecture’s Noto Peninsula, the drama Mare portrays a protagonist who strives to achieve her dreams while overcoming various trials.
Its theme song is the original choral piece Kizora ~Marezora~.
It’s said that the first verse’s lyrics were written by Tao Tsuchiya, who played the heroine.
The lyrics, which tightly condense the drama’s story, the grand melody, and the many gentle yet powerful voices make it a perfect song for the morning.
Let it energize you and start your day off right.
flareSuperfly
Superfly’s song “Flare” was written as the theme song for the NHK morning drama series “Scarlet,” starring Erika Toda.
It reached No.
2 on the Oricon Singles Chart.
The music video, filmed in stop motion with 1,500 candles, has a fantastical feel.
The title “Flare” carries two meanings: “flame” and “self-expression/talent.” With its upbeat, forward-driving sound, it’s a track that makes you feel happy as you listen.
Closest to meHY
This is the theme song for the NHK morning drama series Jun to Ai, created by HY, a band from Okinawa.
Its lyrics, which depict bonds deepened by belief and the preciousness of the love right beside us, resonate with the heroine’s pure determination as she faces hardships, making the story all the more moving.
Included on the album Route 29 released in December 2012, the song is a classic—there’s even an anecdote that the executive producer praised it as “the number one theme song in the history of morning dramas.” Lead actress Nana also commented that she “couldn’t stop getting goosebumps,” speaking to the song’s powerful impact.
Happy☆Boogiesakaiyuu
An irresistible, feel-good boogie with a rhythm that makes your body start moving all on its own.
It served as the theme song for the latter half of 2023’s NHK morning drama series “Boogie Woogie,” brightening up the show’s opening.
Composer Takayuki Hattori wrote this piece as a “Reiwa-era boogie,” inspired by the music of his grandfather, Ryoichi Hattori.
The empowering lyrics, together with the soulful vocals of Yoshie Nakano, Yu Sakai, and lead actress Shuri, blend beautifully.
It’s the perfect track to play on mornings when you want to lift your mood or anytime you need a boost!