Japanese dramas, or dorama, have captivated audiences worldwide with their unique storytelling, compelling characters, and high production values. While traditional television dramas remain popular, the rise of streaming platforms has ushered in a new era of web series, offering diverse narratives and experimental formats. This list curates ten of the best Japanese web series, spanning various genres and showcasing the innovation of Japanese online entertainment.
1. Midnight Diner: Tokyo Stories (深夜食堂 – Tokyo Stories)
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Genre: Slice of Life, Food Drama
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Platform: Netflix
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Year: 2016-2019 (Original series aired on TV from 2009-2014)
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Why it’s on the list: Midnight Diner: Tokyo Stories isn’t just a web series; it’s an experience. Set in a small, late-night diner in Shinjuku, the series follows the enigmatic Master (played by Kaoru Kobayashi) as he cooks whatever his customers request, offering a comforting space for them to share their stories. Each episode focuses on a different patron, their lives intertwined with the simple yet profound act of sharing a meal. The show’s strength lies in its understated realism, its poignant portrayal of human connection, and its mouthwatering depictions of Japanese comfort food. The episodic format makes it easily digestible, while the recurring characters and themes create a warm and familiar atmosphere. It’s a perfect example of how Japanese storytelling can find universality in the everyday.
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2. Atelier (アンダーウェア – Underwear)
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Genre: Drama, Fashion
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Platform: Netflix
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Year: 2015
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Why it’s on the list: Atelier, also known as Underwear, provides a fascinating glimpse into the world of high-end lingerie design. The story follows Mayuko Tokita, a textile student who lands a job at Emotion, a prestigious lingerie company in Ginza. Naive and initially overwhelmed, Mayuko navigates the cutthroat world of fashion, learning about craftsmanship, innovation, and the power of beautiful design. The series is visually stunning, showcasing exquisite lingerie and the meticulous process of its creation. It’s a compelling coming-of-age story that explores themes of ambition, creativity, and self-discovery, set against the backdrop of a glamorous and demanding industry. Atelier stands out for its attention to detail, its strong female lead, and its unique subject matter.
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3. Switched (宇宙を駆けるよだか – Sora wo Kakeru Yodaka)
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Genre: Supernatural, Drama, Romance
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Platform: Netflix
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Year: 2018
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Why it’s on the list: Switched is a dark and compelling supernatural drama that explores themes of body image, identity, and the complexities of human relationships. When Ayumi Kohinata, a popular and beautiful high school student, switches bodies with Zenko Umine, a classmate ostracized for her appearance, her life is turned upside down. Ayumi must navigate life in Zenko’s body, dealing with the prejudice and isolation she once never experienced. The series delves into the psychological impact of the body swap, forcing viewers to confront their own biases and assumptions about beauty and worth. Switched is a thought-provoking and emotionally charged drama that will stay with you long after you’ve finished watching. The strong performances and the unsettling premise make it a standout in the Japanese web series landscape.
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4. Followers (フォロワーズ)
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Genre: Drama, Fashion, Social Media
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Platform: Netflix
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Year: 2020
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Why it’s on the list: Followers offers a vibrant and visually captivating portrayal of contemporary Tokyo, focusing on the lives of women navigating the world of social media and personal fulfillment. The series follows Natsume Hyakuta, an aspiring actress struggling to break into the industry, and Limi Nara, a successful and independent photographer. Their lives intertwine as Natsume gains unexpected fame through Limi’s Instagram post. Followers explores the pressures of social media, the pursuit of dreams, and the importance of female friendships. The series is visually stunning, showcasing the latest fashion trends and the bustling streets of Tokyo. It’s a modern and relatable drama that resonates with audiences interested in social media culture and the challenges of pursuing a career in the creative arts.
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5. Good Morning Call (グッドモーニング・コール)
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Genre: Romantic Comedy
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Platform: Netflix
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Year: 2016-2017
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Why it’s on the list: Good Morning Call is a charming and lighthearted romantic comedy that follows Nao Yoshikawa and Hisashi Uehara, two high school students who accidentally end up living together after being scammed into renting the same apartment. Forced to keep their living situation a secret, they navigate the challenges of cohabitation and develop feelings for each other. The series is a classic example of the “forced proximity” trope, but it’s executed with warmth, humor, and genuine chemistry between the leads. Good Morning Call is a feel-good drama perfect for those seeking a light and entertaining escape. It’s a great introduction to the world of Japanese romantic comedies and a testament to the enduring appeal of the shojo manga adaptation.
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6. Kantaro: The Sweet Tooth Salaryman (さぼリーマン甘太朗 – Sabo Riiman Kantaro)
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Genre: Comedy, Food Drama
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Platform: Netflix
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Year: 2017
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Why it’s on the list: Kantaro: The Sweet Tooth Salaryman is a quirky and hilarious comedy about Kantaro Ametani, a successful salesman who secretly ditches work to indulge in his passion for sweets. Each episode features Kantaro visiting a different Japanese confectionery, where he experiences a near-ecstatic sensory overload, often accompanied by elaborate visual metaphors and over-the-top internal monologues. The series is a celebration of Japanese desserts and a humorous exploration of the lengths people will go to for their passions. Kantaro: The Sweet Tooth Salaryman is a unique and highly entertaining drama that will leave you craving Japanese sweets and laughing out loud. Its over-the-top humor and unique premise make it a memorable and highly bingeable web series.
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7. Jimmy: A True Story (ジミー、アホみたいに好きだった – Jimmy, Ahō Mitai ni Sukidatta)
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Genre: Biographical, Comedy, Drama
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Platform: Netflix
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Year: 2018
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Why it’s on the list: Jimmy: A True Story is a biographical comedy-drama based on the life of Jimmy Onishi, a popular Japanese comedian. The series follows Jimmy’s journey from a troubled youth to a successful entertainer, mentored by the legendary comedian Sanma Akashiya. The series is a heartwarming and hilarious portrayal of Jimmy’s eccentric personality and his unlikely rise to fame. It’s a celebration of perseverance, friendship, and the power of laughter. Jimmy: A True Story is a well-acted and engaging drama that offers a glimpse into the world of Japanese comedy and the life of a beloved entertainer.
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8. Tokyo Vampire Hotel (東京ヴァンパイアホテル)
- Genre: Action, Horror, Fantasy
- Platform: Amazon Prime Video
- Year: 2017
- Why it’s on the list: Tokyo Vampire Hotel is a visually stunning and action-packed horror-fantasy series directed by Sion Sono. The story revolves around a group of people who are chosen to survive an impending apocalypse caused by vampires. They seek refuge in a hidden hotel in Tokyo, where they must fight to protect themselves from the vampire queen and her army. The series is known for its over-the-top violence, its unique visual style, and its dark and twisted narrative. Tokyo Vampire Hotel is a must-watch for fans of Sion
