Tokyo, May 29 — NHK has officially announced that its fall 2026 Asadora (morning drama) will be titled “Blossom.” Acclaimed actress Shizuka Ishibashi will star in the lead role. The announcement was made at the NHK Osaka Broadcasting Station.
The drama is inspired by the life of Chiyo Uno, a notable Japanese author who lived through the Meiji, Taisho, and Showa eras. She is known for her pioneering spirit, literary accomplishments, and unique lifestyle.
This will be Shizuka Ishibashi’s second appearance in an NHK morning drama, following her role in the 2018 Asadora “Half, Blue.” In “Blossom,” she will portray the heroine, Tama Hano (葉野珠).
Commenting on her casting, Ishibashi said with a smile: “I was completely shocked—it felt like a bolt from the blue. Seeing so many people gathered here, I realized this wasn’t a prank—it’s really happening.”
Currently, NHK’s morning drama “Anpan” is airing, featuring Mio Imada in the lead role. The upcoming fall 2025 drama will be titled “Bakebake,” starring Akari Takaishi. The spring 2026 series will be “Kaze, Kaoru,” which will feature a double heroine format, with Ai Miura confirmed as one of the leads.
NHK’s Asadora series continues to captivate viewers with powerful female leads and stories inspired by real-life figures, making “Blossom” one of the most anticipated titles of 2026.