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)
brilliant; radiant; glittering; bright (sunlight)Miura Daichi
A heartfelt ballad delivered by Daichi Miura, who captivates audiences with his exceptional vocals and world-class dance.
Released in 2022 as his 29th single, it was written as the theme song for the NHK morning drama series Chimudondon.
The song was reportedly crafted with the feeling of writing a letter to his late grandmother, expressing the warm love from family as a light that illuminates one’s back.
Its universal theme resonated with many, earning the Drama Song Award at the 113th The Television Drama Academy Awards.
It’s a song that can set a calm and positive tone when listened to at the start of your day.
DaijoubuOda Kazumasa
This work is a single released by Kazumasa Oda in April 2007, written as the theme song for the NHK morning drama series “Don to Hare.” Its gentle, warm melodic line and Oda’s clear, soaring high-tone voice resonate pleasantly.
The lyrics affirm the strength to never yield to hardship and gently give listeners a push forward, deeply mirroring the drama’s story.
Included on the album “Jiko Best-2,” the song was later adopted as the departure melody on the Shinkansen platform at JR Morioka Station, and remains a beloved classic to this day.
It’s a heartwarming track that’s perfect to listen to on a morning when you’re starting a new day.
[Asadora Theme Songs] Historical Opening Themes of NHK’s Morning Drama Series (31–40)
diamond dustMoriyama Naotaro
A delicate yet grand medium-tempo ballad, its clear falsetto by Naotaro Moriyama resonates deeply in the heart.
Released in November 2005 as his ninth single, the song was chosen as the theme for the NHK morning drama series Haruka of the Wind (Kaze no Haruka).
The lyrics depict a fleeting scene of snow on distant mountains dancing in the wind, mirroring the heroine’s pursuit of her dreams and perfectly aligning with the drama’s world.
The track was later included on the album Kazemachi Kousaten and was also performed on the Kōhaku Uta Gassen.
It’s a song that quietly instills courage on a winter morning when you’re taking a new step forward.
Don’t cry.Fukuyama Masaharu
It’s a ballad that gently stays close to a heart sunk in sorrow and kindles a warm light.
Released in December 2004 as Masaharu Fukuyama’s 19th single, it was used as the theme song for the NHK morning drama series Wakaba.
It expresses the drama’s theme of “rebirth,” portraying a kindness that doesn’t force those who have endured painful experiences to cheer up, but instead simply remains quietly by their side.
The tone of the acoustic guitar—so complete that it astonished the arranger—further enhances that warmth.
Its melody, which seems to affirm you just as you are, will surely give you a small courage to start walking forward again.
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.
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.
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!
