Definition
Asa ga Kita (Japanese: 朝が来た, lit. “Morning Has Come”) is a Japanese morning drama (asadora) television series produced by NHK. The series aired from October 5, 2015, to March 26, 2016, comprising 156 episodes of 15 minutes each.
Overview
The narrative follows the life of Asa Takakura (née Wada), a fictionalized version of real‑life Meiji‑era entrepreneur Asayo Takahashi, who becomes a pioneering businesswoman in the textile industry of Osaka. Set against the backdrop of Japan’s rapid modernization during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the series depicts Asa’s personal and professional challenges, her involvement in the development of the silk trade, and her role in the founding of the Japan Women’s Trade Association.
Asa ga Kita was created as part of NHK’s long‑running asadora tradition, which broadcasts short, daily serial dramas in the morning slot. The series achieved high viewership ratings, consistently ranking among the top three asadora programs during its broadcast period. The lead role was portrayed by actress Haruka Ayase, with supporting performances by Hiroshi Tamaki, Takako Matsu, and Takashi Naitō.
Etymology/Origin
The title combines the Japanese words asa (朝, “morning”) and kita (来た, past tense of kuru, “to come”). The phrase “asa ga kita” is a common idiom meaning “the morning has arrived” or metaphorically “a new beginning”. The expression reflects the series’ thematic focus on renewal, progress, and the pioneering spirit of its protagonist.
Characteristics
- Format: Daily half‑hour (15‑minute) episodes, typical of the asadora model; broadcast Monday through Saturday on NHK General TV.
- Genre: Historical drama with elements of romance, family saga, and social commentary.
- Production: Produced by NHK Osaka, with screenplay by screenwriter Shōgo Miyashita and direction by multiple directors, including Junji Sakamoto.
- Music: Opening theme “Tomorrow” performed by Japanese singer Yōko Oginome; incidental music composed by Takayuki Hattori.
- Cultural Impact: The series contributed to renewed public interest in Meiji‑era industrial history and women's entrepreneurship. Merchandise, including a novelization, DVD box sets, and a museum exhibit at the Osaka Museum of History, were released.
- Reception: Critics praised the series for its detailed period production design, nuanced portrayal of gender roles, and the lead actress’s performance. Some reviewers noted historical liberties taken for dramatic purposes.
Related Topics
- Asadora – NHK’s morning drama programming block, established in 1961.
- Meiji Restoration – Period of rapid modernization in Japan (1868–1912) that forms the historical backdrop of the series.
- Japanese textile industry – Central to the plot, reflecting Osaka’s real historical role in silk production and export.
- Haruka Ayase – Japanese actress and singer, known for leading roles in television and film.
- NHK – Japan’s public broadcaster, producer of the asadora series.