The highly anticipated drama "Chihayafuru -Meguri-" is set to premiere on the Japan Television Network in July 2025, bringing back the beloved characters from the hit manga series created by Yuki Suetsugu. This original story unfolds ten years after the successful film trilogy that captivated audiences from 2016 to 2018.
In this new installment, viewers will follow the journey of Meguru Aozawa, portrayed by 18-year-old Ami Tomita, who is a second-year student at Meigetsu High School. The competitive karuta club, to which she belongs, faces the threat of disbandment due to a dwindling membership. However, everything changes when Kanade Ooe, played by Moka Kamishiraishi, steps in as the new advisor for the club. This encounter is pivotal, as it not only alters the fate of the karuta club but also transforms Meguru's life.
Tomita expressed her excitement about joining the "Chihayafuru" universe, stating, "I want to respect the world view created by everyone involved in the film series and connect it in a way that does not ruin the image that fans have. I was also deeply moved by this work, and I hope to convey that emotion to the viewers this time." Her enthusiasm reflects the dedication she brings to her first leading role in a drama series.
Kamishiraishi, who reprises her role as Kanade, shared her joy in returning to the character, saying, "It’s hard to express in one word. I’m really happy to be able to jump back into the world of ‘Chihayafuru’ and move hearts once again. It’s been ten years since the filming of the movie series, and reflecting on that time has been deeply moving for me. I can’t wait for the broadcast!"
To celebrate the drama's adaptation, Yuki Suetsugu created a special illustration featuring Kanade as a teacher, surrounded by her former students, including Chihaya, Taichi, and others. In the illustration, 25-year-old Kanade stands at the blackboard, symbolizing the passage of time and the growth of the characters.
Suetsugu commented on the significance of this new chapter, saying, "I am really happy that Moka Kamishiraishi gladly accepted the role of Kanade Ooe again. Just as ten years have passed in the story, the real-time has also overlapped. I hope that the characters in the manga will support Kanade as she devotes herself to club activities."
The drama's narrative is set against the backdrop of high school students passionately engaging in competitive karuta, a traditional Japanese card game that requires both skill and strategy. The challenges faced by Meguru and her friends reflect the struggles and triumphs of youth, making it relatable to a wide audience.
With a cumulative circulation of over 29 million copies, the "Chihayafuru" manga has garnered a dedicated fanbase, and the film adaptations have grossed over 4.5 billion yen, establishing the series as a cornerstone of youth cinema in Japan. This new drama promises to capture the essence of the original works while introducing fresh elements that resonate with both new and longtime fans.
Producer Mayo Yanagihara emphasized the importance of character development in the series, stating, "We have had many discussions with Yuki Suetsugu, and just as she has given meaning to each character in 'Chihayafuru', we aim to cherish the lives of the characters in 'Chihayafuru -Meguri-'." This commitment to authenticity is a testament to the creative team's respect for the source material.
As the drama approaches its premiere, anticipation continues to build. Fans are eager to see how Meguru’s character evolves, especially after her encounter with Kanade, who has her own dreams and aspirations. The story is expected to explore themes of friendship, competition, and personal growth, all of which have been hallmarks of the "Chihayafuru" franchise.
In addition to Tomita and Kamishiraishi, the new cast has been practicing karuta diligently, showcasing their commitment to bringing the story to life. The series aims to deliver a rich and engaging portrayal of high school life through the lens of competitive karuta, ensuring that audiences will be captivated by the characters' journeys.
As the air date approaches, the excitement surrounding "Chihayafuru -Meguri-" reflects not only the popularity of the franchise but also the deep connections fans have formed with its characters over the years. This new chapter promises to honor the legacy of the original series while exploring new narrative depths.
With its compelling storyline, dedicated cast, and the creative vision of its producers, "Chihayafuru -Meguri-" is poised to be a standout addition to the summer drama lineup. Viewers can look forward to tuning in every Wednesday at 10 p.m. starting in July 2025 on the Japan Television Network, as they witness the unfolding of a heartfelt story about youth, passion, and the enduring spirit of competition.
