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)
A bittersweet episodeHata Motohiro
A heartwarming song that gently accompanies everyday life, chosen as the theme for the NHK morning drama series Ochoyan.
Written by Motohiro Hata, it was released in January 2021 as his 24th single.
You can’t help but see yourself in the protagonist who overcomes any adversity with a smile.
The lyrics convey an indomitable spirit—never getting up empty-handed after a fall—and the everyday warmth of “it’ll be okay if your stomach growls,” all expressed through Hata’s gentle yet powerful vocals.
Listening to this track somehow fills you with optimism; many listeners surely feel the same.
When you’re ready to take a new step or your heart feels a little tired, this song will quietly give you a supportive push.
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.
[Asadora Theme Songs] Historical Opening Themes of NHK’s Morning Drama Series (31–40)
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.
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.
Ama-chan Opening ThemeŌtomo Yoshihide
In 2013, the nationally beloved drama Amachan featured actress Non in the lead role.
The phrase “Jejeje!” used by the protagonist, Aki Amano, was even chosen as the Buzzword of the Year that same year.
The story is a coming-of-age tale set in Kita-Sanriku, Iwate Prefecture, following her growth as both an ama diver and an idol.
Whenever Amachan comes up on TV, the song that inevitably plays is the opening theme, Amachan Opening Theme, which many people have probably heard.
It’s a brisk, pop, ska-style track that gives you a boost just by listening.
The instrumentation even includes a percussion instrument called chanchiki, adding to the fun atmosphere.
Upside-Down SkySMAP
Sakasama no Sora is SMAP’s 47th single, released in 2012.
It was used as the theme song for the NHK morning drama series Umechan-sensei, produced as part of the recovery support project following the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake, and it reached No.
1 on the Oricon Singles Chart.
Like the protagonist—a female doctor who lived through the tumultuous postwar era and was portrayed as a neighborhood physician by Maki Horikita in the drama—it’s an encouraging song for women who keep living strongly even when they feel discouraged.
Where from tomorrowMatsu Takako
Takako Matsu’s “Ashita wa Doko Kara” (Where Tomorrow Begins) was written as the theme song for the NHK morning drama “Warotenka,” which is based on Sei Yoshimoto, the founder of Yoshimoto Kogyo.
Released as her 22nd single, it’s also included on the album “Ashita wa Doko Kara.” With lyrics that sing about how today connects to tomorrow and Matsu’s warm vocals, it’s an uplifting anthem that gives you energy.
It’s definitely a song I recommend starting your day with!