[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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[2026] A Roundup of Popular Theme and Title Songs from TV Period Dramas (41–50)
Traveling crowItsuki Hiroshi
This is the theme song for the Hasegawa Shin Series, which aired from October 4, 1972 to April 25, 1973.
This period drama adapts masterpieces—centered on “tabi” outlaw stories—from the works of Shin Hasegawa, known as the father of popular literature, including Kutsukake Tokijiro, Nakayama Shichiri, Seki no Yatappe, and Mother of the Blinded.
the sunKatsu Shintarō
To commemorate the 15th anniversary of Fuji TV’s launch, Zatōichi was adapted into a television drama for the first time.
That was The Tale of Zatōichi.
Shintaro Katsu, who starred in it, also sang the theme song, Otento-san.
The title, written in hiragana, gives a cute impression at first glance, but Katsu’s singing voice is wonderfully deep and rugged.
Hurry like the windHirata Takao to Serusutāzu
This is the theme song for the period drama series Ukiyo-e: Onna Nezumi Kozō, starring Mayumi Ogawa, which spans three installments.
It’s a historical drama where Okyo (played by Mayumi Ogawa), the female Nezumi Kozō, teams up with Tokichi (played by Kunie Tanaka), the male Nezumi Kozō, and, together with their band of little “mice” underlings, they stand up to evil.
Song of Osen the Traveling SparrowMatsuyama Yōko
This is the theme song of the period drama “Tabigarasu Kurenai Osen,” which depicts the whimsical travels of the female drifter Osen, played by Yoko Matsuyama, and the female pickpocket Ogin, played by Reiko Oshida.
It began airing on October 6, 1986, originally scheduled for six months, but due to its immense popularity it was extended and ran for a full year.
DEEPNESSMISIA
Armed with her overwhelming vocal prowess, MISIA continues to dominate Japan’s music scene.
Since her debut in 1998, her achievements in blending Black music—such as R&B and soul—into J-POP are immeasurable.
Released in November 2012, this work served as the theme song for the TBS Friday drama “Ooku: The Inner Chambers — The Birth [Arikoto/Iemitsu Arc].” It is MISIA’s 27th single, a love ballad that portrays deep emotions for a cherished person.
The anecdote that she studied the original manga to understand the drama’s worldview before production speaks to MISIA’s earnest dedication.
The lyrics, depicting the subtleties of human relationships and inner conflict, resonate deeply with those of us living today.
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.
Go with the flowItsuki Hiroshi
The song written and composed by Hiroshi Itsuki is a striking piece that combines powerful enka with heartrending lyrics.
It portrays the resolve to find hope while accepting life’s hardships and loneliness.
Released in March 1982, the song was used as the theme for the period drama “Tōyama no Kin-san,” which began airing the same year and ran for a total of 198 episodes starring Hideki Takahashi.
Itsuki himself made guest appearances in the series, drawing additional attention.
This work, one of Itsuki’s signature songs, teaches the importance of holding on to unwavering love and hope while going with the flow of life.
It stands as a gentle yet powerful message of encouragement to everyone struggling with life.