A combination of imagination, mythology, action, and romance, Japanese fantasy dramas are one of a kind. They transport their viewers to the land of magic and dreams, doing it with ease. It is not just the skillful narratives that put Japanese dramas in such a high position in the list of the preferences of viewers. It is also their brilliant visuals and one-of-a-kind CGI technology. Many of these dramas are based on actual myths, legends, and folklore, giving them a personal touch for their audience to appreciate and relate to. Following js a list of the top ten Japanese dramas that you must have on your watch list.
1. Bakuryuu Sentai Abaranger
This show has been everyone's favorite at one point in their life. A global success and sensation, Bakuryuu Sentai Abaranger is the story of ordinary teenagers who turn into dinosaur-themed superheroes to protect the world from threats outside. The show has a unique blend of historical and futuristic elements that make it a thrilling watch. There are multiple fan-clubs belonging to the show today, further proving to be a testimony of its success.
2. The Memorandum Of Kyoko Okitegami
A comedic take on detective drama, The Memorandum Of Kyoko Okitegami revolves around the unique condition of a detective that resets her daily memory. Her love for money and her condition make it necessary for her to solve all the cases before the end of every day. It is this twist that gives the story the humorous tinge that is loved by its viewers. Not wholly based on the fantastical world, this drama is a great light-hearted watch for its viewers.
3. Erased
A psychological thriller with themes of time travel, Erased revolves around the life of a man who goes back in time using his superpowers to save his mother and the friends he had lost. Even though the story seems slow-paced, the twists and turns that follow the plotline make it worth all the suspense. Overall, it is a great watch for all the viewers who love anime and fantasy.
4. Marumo No Okite
A light-hearted, feel-good drama, Marumo No Okite is the story of a surrogate father with two twins. With a dog, they fit the stereotype of a perfectly normal family, until they realize their dog has superpowers. He can speak human language and acts like a guardian to the twins, who he loves seeing growing up. The drama is heartwarming with a tinge of adventure, a perfect weekend binge.
5. Yamato Nadeshiko Shichi Henge
Based on the manga series by Tomoko Hayakawa, Yamato Nadeshiko Shichi Henge is a Cinderella story where four handsome boys play the fairy godmother. The story revolves around the evolution of a girl who is bullied in school for being a tomboy. She is made to go through a transformation by her aunt under the guidance of four mysterious boys living in her mansion. With only a tinge of fantasy, his story is more of a rom-com than a fantastical adventure.
6. Minami Kun No Koibito
Minami Kun No Koibito, or My Little Lover, is a funny, charming story of the reconciliation of two friends who had drifted apart in high school. Centered around a teenage girl who somehow shrinks to 15 centimeters, the story revolves around her and her best friend’s journey to turn her into a regular teenager again. A romantic drama with a fairytale touch, this show is perfect for viewers who love to watch fantasy romances.
7. Shinigami Kun
Inspired from the manga of the same name by Koichi Endo, Shinigami Kun is the story of a grim reaper who is biased toward his favorite humans and, hence, gets reprimanded by his superiors regularly. The show is a heartwarming fantasy that deals with various themes like friendships, parenthood, childhood, and social issues like bullying. Overall, it is not a rollercoaster fantasy ride but a light-hearted, good watch.
8. Siren
Inspired from the manga series Sairen by Sayaka Yamazaki, Siren is an action thriller that revolves around the life of a detective couple that works together under the same organization. A strange series of events is set into motion when another character enters their lives. The story follows the attempt of the male lead to find out the secrets of this mysterious character in an effort to protect himself and his family.
9. Zettai Kareshi
Centered around the original manga by Yuu Watase, Zettai Kareshi, this fantastical romantic drama is the story of a lonely woman who has given up on trying to find love. She stumbles upon a robot designed to be a perfect boyfriend and finds herself in a love triangle. This drama is funny and engaging with a lot of cute moments. It is definitely a show that you must add to your bucket list in case you need a fun weekend binge session.
10. Garo
An action filled mythical fantasy drama, Garo is the story of a brave knight, Garo. He fights demonic manifestations in the world called, “Horrors”. He eventually falls in love with a girl tainted by demonic blood. The story follows his journey to save and purify her while also trying to protect her from getting killed by the other knights. Adapted in an animated series as well, Garo is an absolute delight to watch for all Japanese drama viewers.
