Discover the Top Japanese TV Series of 2021: Must-Watch Picks for Fans of J-Drama!

Discover the best Japanese TV series of 2021, from thrilling dramas to heartwarming comedies. Explore Japanese culture and entertainment today!

As the year 2021 unfolds, Japanese television series continue to captivate audiences with their diverse storylines, unique characters, and exceptional production quality. From heartwarming dramas to thrilling action-adventures, there is no shortage of exceptional content for viewers to explore. One of the most highly anticipated series of the year is the sci-fi anime Eden, which takes place in a world where humans have been extinct for thousands of years, replaced by robots who have created their own civilization. Meanwhile, Penthouse 3 continues to enthrall fans with its intense plot twists and complex characters, as the residents of Hera Palace navigate their way through the cutthroat world of high society. Additionally, The Way of the Househusband offers a hilarious take on the life of a former yakuza boss turned stay-at-home husband, while Maiden Holmes combines elements of mystery, romance, and historical drama. With so many incredible options to choose from, it's clear that Japanese TV series will continue to be a major force in the entertainment industry for years to come.

Introduction

Japan has a rich cultural heritage, and its influence can be seen in various forms of art, including television series. Japanese TV shows are known for their unique storylines, attention to detail, and high production values. In 2021, several Japanese TV shows have made it to the top of the list for their gripping plots, outstanding performances, and impressive cinematography. In this article, we will take a look at some of the best Japanese TV series of 2021.

Terrace House: Tokyo 2019-2020

Terrace House: Tokyo 2019-2020 is a reality show that follows six strangers as they live together in a house in Tokyo. The show has gained popularity for its realistic portrayal of relationships and the daily lives of young adults in Japan. The show's format allows viewers to witness the ups and downs of the characters' lives as they navigate their careers, friendships, and romantic relationships.

Alice in Borderland

Alice in Borderland is a science fiction thriller that revolves around a group of young people who find themselves transported to a parallel world where they must compete in dangerous games to survive. The show is based on a manga of the same name and has gained popularity for its intense action sequences and complex plot twists.

Signal: Long-Term Unsolved Case Investigation Team

Signal: Long-Term Unsolved Case Investigation Team is a crime drama that follows a team of detectives as they use a mysterious radio to communicate with a detective from the past to solve long-term unsolved cases. The show has been praised for its intricate plot, masterful storytelling, and outstanding performances.

Tokyo Revengers

Tokyo Revengers is a manga-based series that follows a young man who travels back in time to save the life of his ex-girlfriend and prevent a gang war from occurring. The show has gained popularity for its unique take on time travel and its portrayal of gang culture in Japan.

Midnight Diner

Midnight Diner is a heartwarming drama that revolves around the customers of a small diner in Tokyo that only opens at midnight. Each episode features a different customer and their story, highlighting the importance of food and community in Japanese culture. The show has gained a loyal following for its charming characters and feel-good storylines.

Tenno no Ryoriban (The Emperor's Cook)

Tenno no Ryoriban is a historical drama that follows the life of a chef who becomes the personal cook for Emperor Meiji during Japan's transition from feudalism to modernization. The show has been praised for its attention to historical detail and outstanding performances.

Kuragehime (Princess Jellyfish)

Kuragehime is a romantic comedy that follows a group of young women who live together in an apartment building and share a love for all things otaku. The show has gained popularity for its quirky characters, witty dialogue, and heartwarming storylines.

My Hero Academia

My Hero Academia is a superhero anime that takes place in a world where almost everyone has superpowers. The show follows a young man who dreams of becoming a hero but is born without any powers. The show has gained popularity for its exciting action sequences, well-developed characters, and themes of perseverance and friendship.

The Naked Director

The Naked Director is a biographical drama that tells the story of Toru Muranishi, a Japanese porn director who became a controversial figure in the 1980s. The show has gained attention for its bold portrayal of the adult industry and its exploration of themes such as power, corruption, and personal growth.

Territory of Love

Territory of Love is a romantic drama that follows a young woman who moves to Tokyo to pursue her dreams and falls in love with a man who is already in a committed relationship. The show has been praised for its realistic portrayal of modern relationships and its exploration of themes such as love, jealousy, and self-discovery.

Conclusion

Japanese TV series have a unique way of capturing the hearts and minds of viewers with their attention to detail and masterful storytelling. The shows mentioned above are just a few examples of the best Japanese TV series of 2021. Whether you're a fan of romance, action, or drama, there's something for everyone in the world of Japanese television.

Introduction

Japanese television dramas, known as doramas in Japan, have gained international recognition for their unique storytelling and high-quality production. In 2021, a plethora of new series have been released, captivating audiences both in Japan and around the world.

Genre Diversity

One of the standout features of Japanese television series is their diversity in genre. From crime dramas to romantic comedies, the range of themes and styles ensures that there is something for everyone. Whether it's the intense action of MIU404, the heartwarming romance of Love (ft. Marriage and Divorce), or the supernatural mystery of Miyamoto kara Kimi e, viewers are spoiled for choice when it comes to picking a favorite.

Cinematography and Soundtrack

Japanese television series are known for their attention to detail, and this extends to their cinematography and soundtracks. Focusing on beautiful landscapes and carefully crafted musical scores, these elements enhance the emotional impact of the story. Whether it's the haunting melodies of The Night Beyond the Tricornered Window or the sweeping vistas of Nemesis, the visual and auditory experiences of these shows are truly mesmerizing.

Adaptations of Manga and Novels

Many Japanese television series are based on popular manga and novels. These adaptations often stay faithful to the source material, providing fans with a new medium through which to experience their favorite stories. Whether it's the epic fantasy of Fruits Basket: The Final or the gripping thriller of Alice in Borderland, these shows bring beloved characters and worlds to life in stunning detail.

Acting Talent

Japanese actors are renowned for their versatility and dedication to their craft. In 2021, many actors have delivered standout performances that have left audiences impressed and emotional. From Kento Yamazaki's nuanced portrayal of a time-traveling detective in The Confidence Man JP to Nana Komatsu's heartbreaking turn as a woman struggling with infertility in Koi wa Tsuzuku yo Doko Made mo, the talent on display in these shows is truly remarkable.

Historical Settings

Japan has a rich cultural history, and many television series take advantage of this by setting their stories in different historical periods. These dramas offer a chance to learn about different eras of Japanese history while enjoying a compelling story. Whether it's the feudal Japan of Yamato Nadeshiko or the Meiji Restoration of The Moon Over the Ruined Castle, these shows transport viewers to a different time and place.

Social Commentary

Some of the most engaging Japanese television series offer social commentary on contemporary issues facing Japanese society. Whether it be the pressures of work-life balance in Haken no Hinkaku or Japan's aging population in Okaeri Mone, these dramas tackle complex themes with sensitivity and nuance. By exploring these topics through the lens of fiction, these shows provide a unique perspective on the challenges facing modern Japan.

Strong Female Characters

Japanese television series often feature strong female characters who are not defined by their relationships with men. Many of these characters are complex, flawed, and relatable, making them compelling to watch. Whether it's the determined lawyer of Suits or the resilient heroine of The Many Faces of Ito, these shows showcase the strength and resilience of women in all walks of life.

Technology and Science Fiction

Japan is known for being at the cutting edge of technology, and this often translates to its television dramas. From cyberterrorism to time travel, these series explore a range of science fiction themes that are both thought-provoking and entertaining. Whether it's the mind-bending puzzles of Signal or the dystopian future of Alice in Borderland, these shows push the boundaries of what is possible in storytelling.

International Appeal

In recent years, Japanese television dramas have gained a dedicated following outside of Japan. The popularity of streaming services such as Netflix has made it easier for international audiences to access and enjoy these series, ensuring their continued success in the global market. With their unique blend of compelling storytelling, stunning visuals, and diverse themes, it's clear that Japanese television dramas will continue to captivate audiences around the world for years to come.

Japan has always been known for its unique and exceptional entertainment industry, and 2021 has not been an exception to this. The year has seen the release of some of the best Japanese TV series that have captivated audiences worldwide with their intriguing plotlines, exceptional cinematography, and outstanding performances by the cast. In this article, we will delve into some of the best Japanese TV series of 2021 and explore why they have been so successful.

1. Alice in Borderland

Alice in Borderland is a thrilling science-fiction series that has been the talk of the town since its release on Netflix in December 2020. Based on the Japanese manga series of the same name, the show follows the story of three friends who find themselves trapped in a parallel world where they must play dangerous games to survive. The show's excellent storytelling, impressive special effects, and charismatic cast, including Kento Yamazaki and Tao Tsuchiya, have made it a must-watch for sci-fi enthusiasts.

2. Cherry Magic! Thirty Years of Virginity Can Make You a Wizard?!

Cherry Magic! is a romantic comedy-drama series that premiered in October 2020 and quickly gained popularity due to its unique concept and heartwarming storyline. The show follows the life of Adachi, a 30-year-old virgin who magically gains the power to read the minds of anyone he touches. Through his newfound ability, he discovers that his co-worker, Kurosawa, has feelings for him. The show's refreshing take on LGBTQ+ relationships, charming characters, and delightful humor have made it a fan favorite.

3. The Way of the Househusband

The Way of the Househusband is a hilarious action-comedy anime series that premiered on Netflix in April 2021. The show follows the life of Tatsu, a former yakuza member who has retired to become a househusband and support his wife's career. The show's unique premise, slapstick humor, and excellent animation have made it one of the best Japanese anime series of 2021.

4. Tokyo Revengers

Tokyo Revengers is a gripping action-drama series that premiered in April 2021. The show follows the life of Takemichi Hanagaki, a 26-year-old man who travels back in time to his middle school days to save his ex-girlfriend from being murdered by a notorious gang. The show's intense plotline, engaging characters, and superb animation have made it one of the most popular Japanese TV series of 2021.

In conclusion, 2021 has been an excellent year for Japanese TV series, with each show bringing something unique to the table. From science-fiction thrillers to romantic comedies, there is a show for everyone to enjoy. The success of these shows can be attributed to their exceptional storytelling, talented cast, impressive animation, and the ability to connect with audiences on a personal level.

In conclusion, the Japanese television industry continues to produce some of the most captivating and thought-provoking series in the world. With a wide range of genres and themes, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you are a fan of romance, action, drama, or comedy, the best Japanese TV series of 2021 has something for you.

The year 2021 has been a great one for Japanese dramas and anime, with many notable series that have gained popularity both locally and internationally. From the heartwarming romance of Love Is Science? to the thrilling action of Alice in Borderland, these series have captivated audiences with their unique stories, outstanding performances, and stunning cinematography.

As we come to the end of this article, we hope that you have discovered some new Japanese TV series to add to your watchlist. We also hope that you have gained a deeper appreciation for the creativity, talent, and diversity of the Japanese entertainment industry. So sit back, relax, and enjoy the best Japanese TV series of 2021!

When it comes to the best Japanese TV series of 2021, there are a few questions that people commonly ask. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions and their answers:

1. What are the best Japanese TV series of 2021?

The best Japanese TV series of 2021 include:

• Tokyo Revengers
• Jujutsu Kaisen
• Nomad: Megalo Box 2
• Love Live! Superstar!!
• The Way of the Househusband

2. Where can I watch these Japanese TV series?

Most of these Japanese TV series can be found on streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, and Crunchyroll. Some may also be available on cable or satellite TV channels that specialize in anime or foreign programming.

3. Are these Japanese TV series appropriate for children?

It depends on the individual series. Some, like Love Live! Superstar!!, are aimed at younger audiences and are generally safe for children to watch. Others, like Tokyo Revengers and Jujutsu Kaisen, contain more mature themes and violence, and may not be suitable for young children.

4. Do I need to know Japanese to enjoy these TV series?

Most of these Japanese TV series are available with English subtitles or dubbing, so you don't need to know Japanese to enjoy them. However, some fans prefer to watch with subtitles to get a more authentic viewing experience.

5. Are these TV series popular in Japan?

Many of these TV series are very popular in Japan, with Tokyo Revengers and Jujutsu Kaisen both being among the top-rated anime series of the year. Love Live! Superstar!! is also a popular franchise in Japan, with a large fan base.

Overall, the best Japanese TV series of 2021 offer a diverse range of genres and themes, from action-packed supernatural adventures to heartwarming slice-of-life stories. Whether you're a fan of anime or just looking for something new to watch, these series are definitely worth checking out!

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