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

Footsteps ~Be StrongMr.Children

Mr.Children “Footsteps ~Be Strong” MUSIC VIDEO

Released in November 2014, this song appeared as Mr.Children’s 35th single and was written as the theme for the Fuji TV drama and Toho-distributed film Nobunaga Concerto.

It carries an uplifting message and powerful energy, expressing hope that the dreamed-of future is drawing near and encouraging the courage to take the first step.

Kazutoshi Sakurai’s vocals and the band’s performance are beautifully in harmony, resulting in a track that truly resonates with listeners.

It was Mr.Children’s first self-produced work and is positioned as a song that symbolizes a “new Mr.Children.” Enjoy the exquisite combination of a period drama and Misuchiru—a pairing that might seem unlikely at first glance!

At the end of the wildernessYamashita Yūzō

At the End of the Wilderness / Yuzo Yamashita cover by kikuyuu

In the 1970s, TV drama theme songs were an important part of popular culture.

It was around that time that Yuzo Yamashita made his debut with this track.

The lyrics, which portray the loneliness and sorrow of a man who has lost love by likening him to a traveler crossing a barren wilderness, leave a deep impression on listeners.

The powerful yet wistful melody evokes the struggles of life and the preciousness of love.

Released as a single on November 25, 1972 by Minoru Phone Records, the song was used as the theme for the drama “Hissatsu Shikakenin.” Alongside the show, it remains etched in the memories of many viewers and is still cherished today.

When facing heartbreak or a crossroads in life, why not listen to this song and rouse your spirit?

Hama Chidori Love StoryKanazawa Akiko

Hissatsu Shigotonin Theme Song: Hamachidori Love Tale

It’s the ending theme song of Hissatsu Shigotonin, but it was also used as an insert song in the show.

It’s sung by Akiko Kanazawa, a folk singer from Ichikawa City in Chiba Prefecture.

The work drew attention because the direction of the ending title sequence was groundbreaking for a period drama at the time.

Wandering SongOzawa Miyuki

Miyuki Ozawa: Song of the Wanderer

It’s the ending theme song of the period drama “Hissatsu Hichū Shigotoya Kagyo.” The story features Hanbē, a soba shop owner who loves gambling, as the protagonist.

It’s a melancholic song filled with longing, singing of missing a loved one, but it’s said that Miyuki Ozawa, who performs it, was only 15 years old at the time.

Ozawa’s song “Yozora no Bojō” is also a popular track used in Hissatsu Hichū Shigotoya Kagyo.

Set it up, kill, and the sun goes down.Hirao Masaaki

[Period Drama: Hissatsu Series / Electronic Drums Version] Tried drumming the OP theme “Set the Trap, Kill, and the Sun Sets” from Hissatsu Shigotonin (Composer: Masaaki Hirao) — Performance, Drum Cover, “One tie, two ties, three ties...”

This is the opening theme of Hissatsu Shigotonin, composed by Masaaki Hirao, who returned to scoring for TV dramas after a long hiatus at the time.

When you think of Hissatsu Shigotonin, you might recall the trumpet line that goes “chara-chā chatchatchatcha rararara rara chara-chā,” but that’s a different piece.

A woman is like the sea.Izumi Ayukawa

[Hissatsu Shigotonin (Gekitō Edition)] Woman Is the Sea / Izumi Ayukawa

This is the opening theme song of “Hissatsu Shigotonin V: Gekitō-hen,” which aired from November 15, 1985 to July 25, 1986.

Although it is a continuation of Hissatsu Shigotonin V, it was not titled VI; instead, it is one of three spin-off series created as derivatives.

It is a profound song that likens a woman’s heart—waiting anxiously for her man—and the tears she sheds to the sea.

Song of Momotaro the SamuraiMinami Haruo

Haruo Minami / The Song of Momotaro the Samurai (Dance: Minami-ryu Head, Miyuki Minami)

Known as the theme song for the period drama “Momotaro Samurai,” this piece was released by Haruo Minami in 1976.

The lyrics were written by Minami himself, with music composed by Masaaki Hirao.

Positioned between enka and rōkyoku, incorporating elements of naniwabushi, the song prominently showcases Minami’s weighty and dramatic vocal style.

Its majestic melody befits a work depicting a hero who symbolizes Japanese tradition and justice, and the lyrics praising the dignified, imposing character of Momotaro Samurai leave a strong impression.

The drama, which aired 258 episodes over five years, made a lasting impact on viewers of the time.

Becoming one of Minami’s signature songs, this track is also recommended for fans of period dramas.