[2026] A roundup of popular theme and opening songs from TV period dramas

Eve FestivalSatomi Kotarō

Yoimatsuri by Kotaro Satomi

It’s a song whose lyrical, emotionally rich words and melody resonate deeply, vividly conjuring the sights of a festival night.

The lyrics were written by singer-songwriter Kei Ogura, who delicately portrays feelings like the loneliness and warmth that exist alongside the splendor.

Kotaro Satomi’s deep, composed voice further heightens the lingering afterglow of the story.

Released as a single in July 1990, it was used as the theme song for Nippon TV’s period drama “Nagashichirō Edo Nikki: Season 3.” Satomi, who stars in the series, performs the song himself, and it has long been cherished as a piece that unites perfectly with the drama’s world.

It’s a classic you’ll want to play on nights when you wish to quietly settle your heart after enjoying a rousing tale.

Man of FireKitajima Saburō

Man of Fire

This work features a bold, stirring melody worthy of closing a period drama.

Saburo Kitajima’s powerful yet warm vocals brilliantly convey a man’s way of life and resolve, offering a reassuring push that steels the listener’s back.

Released as a single in January 1982, it has been beloved for many years as the theme song for TV Asahi’s popular period drama “Abarenbo Shogun: Yoshimune Hyoban-ki.” Kitajima himself also appeared in the series as Tatsugoro of the Megumi, making the show’s world and the song deeply intertwined—one of its greatest appeals.

The lyrics depict an indomitable spirit that faces adversity, making it a song sure to inspire courage in anyone feeling uncertain at work or at a crossroads in life.

Someday, the day of loveMitsui Yumiko

The Day of Love Will Come Eventually — Yumiko Mitsui

Yumiko Mitsui, a skilled singer known as the top disciple of Masaaki Hirao.

Released in April 1973, this work is a wistful song chosen as the ending theme for the TV period drama Hissatsu Shiokinin.

In the second installment of the series—famous for the first appearance of the popular character Mondō Nakamura—her vocals deepened the afterglow of the story and captured the hearts of many viewers.

The melody, which conveys a sense of helplessness that cannot be resolved by simple good-versus-evil and depicts a quietly burning passion, is deeply moving.

It sold over 120,000 copies at the time and was also well received on cable radio.

When you want to immerse yourself in the unique chiaroscuro of period dramas or spend a night with a song that touches the heart, why not savor it slowly?

Spinning Wheel of MemoriesMitamura Kunihiko

Omoide No Itoguruma

A landmark entry in the Hissatsu series, the popular period drama “Shin Hissatsu Shigotonin” stars Makoto Fujita.

Premiering in May 1981, the show featured Kunihiko Mitamura as Hidetada the ornamental artisan, a role that catapulted him to fame.

This is the ending theme sung by Mitamura himself.

The lyrics, which liken the sorrows of men living in Edo’s underworld and their unbreakable passions to a spinning wheel, perfectly mirror the drama’s weighty atmosphere.

Many viewers likely found the story’s lingering afterglow etched even deeper because one of the cast members performed the song.

Its wistful yet beautiful melody is ideal for listening alone over a quiet night’s drink.

Celebrated as a Showa-era kayō classic that moves even those who aren’t period-drama fans, it continues to be passed down through the years.

daylilyNakaijō Kiyoshi

daylily

Hissatsu Shigotonin III is a popular period drama that aired starting in October 1982, depicting the exploits of a team of assassins led by Makoto Fujita.

Many viewers were likely captivated by Kiyoshi Nakajo’s portrayal of Yuji, the shamisen player who dispatches villains with elegant finesse using strings.

The insert song featured in Yuji’s appearances and other scenes was the single “Wasuregusa,” released in 1982.

Its wistful melody by Takashi Miki intertwines with Nakajo’s sweet yet husky vocals, vividly reflecting the hard-edged world of the drama.

It’s a perfect track not only for recalling the show’s iconic moments, but also for savoring as a soulful kayōkyoku on a quiet night with a drink in hand.

A Man’s YearsSatomi Kotarō

A Man's Years by Kotaro Satomi

Kotaro Satomi has long remained at the forefront as a leading star of period dramas.

Chosen as the theme song for the second season of the popular Nippon TV series “Cho Shichiro Edo Nikki,” which he starred in, was “Otokono Saigetsu” (“A Man’s Years”).

Released as a single in 1988, it was coupled with the track “Otoko no Ryoshu.” The song beautifully captures the protagonist Matsudaira Cho Shichiro—played by Satomi—his stern resolve that shows no mercy to evil and his warm compassion for ordinary people.

With lyrics by Iori Yamamoto and music by Hiro Nagasawa, the piece poignantly portrays a man who, while reflecting on the past, keeps his eyes forward and walks on.

It’s the kind of classic you’ll want to listen to slowly in those brief moments amid busy days, savoring the depth of life.

Flower in the mirror, moon on the waterThe SHIGOTONIN

Kyoka Suigetsu, Hissatsu Shigotonin

Hissatsu Shigotonin 2009 was a drama that drew attention with Noriyuki Higashiyama in the lead role, co-starring Masahiro Matsuoka and Tadayoshi Okura.

Makoto Fujita also appeared as Mondo Nakamura, and the series gained popularity for its world where new and old “Shigotonin” intersect.

The theme song for the drama was Kyōka Suigetsu, a single released in February 2009 by The SHIGOTONIN, a limited-time unit formed by the three cast members.

Its lyrics, depicting fleeting love and unrequited feelings, and its wistful melody reminiscent of Showa-era kayōkyoku matched the ruthless story perfectly.

It was a hit, reaching the upper ranks of the Oricon charts, and was loved by a wide range of listeners beyond just fans of the drama.

It’s also a great track for quietly savoring the afterglow of the show at night.