[2026] A roundup of popular theme and opening songs from TV period dramas
An important genre in the history of Japanese film and television drama is the jidaigeki period drama.
Originally developed in cinema, jidaigeki later declined as a boom, but it went on to find a new home on television and has continued to produce many classics.
Many actors became popular stars through jidaigeki, and unforgettable theme tunes and songs are also indispensable when talking about the genre.
This article presents a roundup of representative jidaigeki theme music and theme songs.
It also includes dramas produced from the 2000s onward, so it’s something viewers of all generations can enjoy!
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Moonlit Shadow: Theme of Ishikawa GoemonAgatsuma Hiromitsu
Released in October 2016, the theme song composed by Hiromitsu Agatsuma—renowned master of the Tsugaru shamisen—for the TV Tokyo drama “Ishikawa Goemon” starring Ebizo Ichikawa seamlessly blends Tsugaru shamisen with orchestral music to create a grand sound that vividly conveys the legendary thief Ishikawa Goemon’s mystique and bravery.
Though it has no lyrics, the powerful resonance of the shamisen intertwined with the rich orchestration evokes beautiful scenes such as the stillness of the night and shadows bathed in moonlight.
The piece is also included on Agatsuma’s best-of album Newest Best “Sui,” and is highly recommended for those interested in a fusion of traditional Japanese aesthetics and contemporary sound.
The Young Lord Samurai of Flowering EdoHashi Yukio
This is the theme song for Masayuki Shiro’s novel series, Young Lord Samurai Case Files.
It tells the story of a samurai called the “Young Lord,” who spends all day drinking and lingering at the riverside boathouse Kisen along the Sumida River, in the company of the poster girl Oito.
Even from the theme song, you can imagine the Young Lord getting cheerfully tipsy on booze.
Zenigata HeijiFunaki Kazuo
A quintessential theme song from a historical drama, beloved alongside memories of youthful days! Released in May 1966 as Kazuo Funaki’s 38th single, this track was used as the theme for Fuji TV’s period drama “Zenigata Heiji” and became a major hit.
Set in the streets of Edo, it powerfully and passionately sings of the protagonist, Zenigata Heiji, as he solves cases.
It’s also appealing that Funaki himself appeared in the drama, showing his deep connection to the work.
With various arrangements over the years, this song has remained loved for a long time.
Highly recommended for those who want to immerse themselves in the nostalgic world of jidaigeki!
In conclusion
If you listen to the theme songs from the period dramas introduced this time, many of you—even from younger generations—have probably heard them somewhere and can hum along, at least a little.
While the main titles are largely works from the Showa era, it’s a genre well worth delving into for those interested in Showa-era pop (kayōkyoku) and enka.
If you’re curious, definitely dig deeper!