Lovely TV drama music

Theme songs from morning dramas: The historical main themes of NHK’s Morning Drama Series

Accompanist / Piano Instructoryuri
Accompanist pianist × piano instructor × web writer. I began piano lessons at age four and, inspired by my piano teacher, decided to pursue music. I went on to specialized music programs in high school and university, where I discovered the appeal of accompanying instrumentalists and singers. Currently, alongside teaching piano, I work mainly in my home region of Aichi as an accompanist for flute, voice, choir, and more. Through lessons, my students often introduce me to trending songs, and my hobby is trying anything on the piano—Japanese and Western pop, commercial jingles, and beyond. Since 2021, I’ve also been active as a web writer, covering music and a variety of other genres.
Keyboard playerSAKI
I’ve been playing the Electone since I was six, mainly performing Disney music, anime songs, and music from dramas and films. I post performance videos on YouTube and social media, and I also give concerts. Building on my Electone experience, I took up synthesizer and piano during my student years and performed at school-sponsored events. As a writer, I’ve covered not only music-related topics but a wide range of genres, so I hope to draw on my experience to deliver articles that make readers think, “I want to try that!” or “I want to listen to that!”

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!

[Asadora Theme Songs] Historical Opening Themes of NHK’s Morning Drama Series (31–40)

Come, spring.

Come, spring.Matsutōya Yumi

Yumi Matsutoya – Come, Spring

Come, spring.Matsutōya Yumi

Among morning dramas, Haru yo, Koi is a renowned work.

Based on screenwriter Sugako Hashida’s semi-autobiographical novel, the drama tells the story of a woman who pursues a life as a screenwriter while overcoming trials such as the death of her beloved husband, war, the loss of her parents, and parting from her lover.

The theme song of the same title by Yumi Matsutoya has also long been cherished as a masterpiece.

Its lyrics, which reflect the drama’s storyline, moved many to tears.

The song’s delicate expressions, employing classical diction, are another part of its appeal.

Give it a listen while reflecting on the story.

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Kado(guchi) Shichigatsu

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chick; fledgling; novice

Young PlazaKuwata Keisuke

Keisuke Kuwata – Wakai Hiroba (Full ver. + “Garakuta” album trailer)

Young PlazaKuwata Keisuke

“Wakai Hiroba” is a song by Keisuke Kuwata of Southern All Stars, included on his 2017 solo album “Garakuta.” It was provided as the theme song for the NHK morning drama series “Hiyokko” that same year, and it topped the Oricon album and digital charts.

“Wakai Hiroba” features a nostalgic sound reminiscent of Showa-era kayōkyoku, which matches well with the world of “Hiyokko,” set around the time of the 1964 Tokyo Olympics.

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In conclusion

We introduced songs that were used as theme songs for NHK’s morning dramas.

Were you able to reconnect with a song that brought back your own morning drama memories? Since some of the theme songs are by famous artists, you may have discovered, “I didn’t know this artist did a morning drama theme song!” Let’s take on the day together with the morning drama theme songs that color Japan’s mornings!