3 Japanese dramas I’d recommend to beginners
If you're learning Japanese and want something to watch, anime isn't your only option.
Here are three dramas I’d recommend — especially if you’re just starting out.
These aren’t flashy.
They don’t move too fast.
And the Japanese in them actually sounds like something people say.
1. Shinya Shokudo (深夜食堂)
Image used under fair use. © Shinya Shokudo Production Committee (安倍夜郎・小学館／「深夜食堂」製作委員会) – Official site
A small, late-night diner.
One cook. Different customers every night.
The language is simple, and the conversations are slow.
You’ll hear how real people speak — when they’re tired, lonely, curious, or just hungry.
It’s quiet, but somehow comforting.
And there’s food in every episode.
2. Nigeru wa Haji da ga Yaku ni Tatsu (逃げるは恥だが役に立つ)
Image used under fair use. © TBS / “Nigeru wa Haji da ga Yaku ni Tatsu” official visual
The title is long. The idea is simple.
A woman enters a contract marriage to survive in Tokyo.
And things get more complicated — and more honest — than expected.
You’ll hear workplace language, casual talk, and some very relatable awkward moments.
Also, it’s kind of sweet.
And fun fact — the two main actors actually got married in real life after the show.
3. Hotspot (ホットスポット)
Image used under fair use. © NTV / “Hotspot” official visual
A woman works at a small hotel near Mt. Fuji.
One day, she discovers that her quiet, awkward coworker... is an alien.
No one’s trying to invade Earth.
There’s just a series of odd, gentle moments that unfold between them —
and somehow, it all feels very human.
There are more, of course.
But if you’re looking for something to help you hear the rhythm of real Japanese,
these are a good place to start.
And no one yells “omae wa mou shindeiru” in any of them.
So that’s a bonus.
Related posts: Learn through stories
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