NHK's latest Taiga drama, titled Berabō, premiered on January 1, 2025, and has quickly captured the hearts of viewers with its portrayal of the rise of the Edo publishing industry through the life of Tsutaya Shōzaburō, popularly known as Tsutaya Ju. The drama dives deep not only around the personal experiences of Shōzaburō but also highlights his relationship with prominent ukiyo-e artist Kitagawa Utamaro, shedding light on the intricacies of their collaboration.
Set against the dazzling backdrop of Edo, which was the cultural hub of Japan during the period, Berabō nods to the rich historical tones as Shōzaburō navigates his routes through triumphs and trials within the prevalent publishing scene. Ryusei Yokohama plays the lead role of Tsutaya Shōzaburō, and his remarkable performance has garnered attention, making the character relatable and empowering.
Shōzaburō is depicted as not merely another player but as one who substantially influenced the early publishing industry. This portrayal allows viewers to understand the substantial shifts occurring throughout Japan during the Edo period and brings to life the struggles faced by those behind the art of publishing.
One of the most notable elements of the drama is the re-enactment of the vibrant social life surrounding the Yoshiwara district —a government-sanctioned red-light district known for its iconic roles throughout the Edo period. The show effectively showcases the juxtaposition between the art world and the challenges of the common populace, offering commentary on the societal structures of the time.
The portrayal of Kitagawa Utamaro serves as another highlight, who, alongside Tsutaya, contributed to transforming the face of ukiyo-e prints with his depictions of women, going beyond aesthetics to portray their complex inner lives. Shōzaburō's support of Utamaro is depicted vividly —through scenes where he brings the artist to live with him, showcasing the alliance which blossoms between them.
According to the author Piroko Tsutaya, viewers will not only find entertainment but also historical insights as the series attempts to portray the cultural dynamics of the publishing industry. Piroko stated, "江戸出版界の礎を築き上げた“蔦重”のすべてがわかる!" highlighting how the drama embodies the essence of Tsutaya’s contributions to literature.
Following the recent episode, where Shōzaburō’s internal conflict about not warning Utamaro about potential trouble reached its peak, the audience could relate to his struggles, providing moments of empathy and identification. This complex emotional dynamic was encapsulated when Heizo Hasegawa, portrayed by Hayato Nakamura, reassured Tsutaya, "濡れ手に粟餅。濡れ手に粟と棚からぼたもちを一緒にしてみたぜ" emphasizing the unexpected rewards and risks faced by artists of the time.
This sentiment resonates well within social media, where fans expressed their joy about Hasegawa returning with charm and wit, often referring to him as "カモ平", as people's favorite moments highlighted their light-hearted exchanges among significant themes within the series.
Currently airing every Sunday at 8 PM on NHK, the show has emerged as not just another historical drama but as one rich with diverse storytelling, characterized by laughter, tears, and lessons learned from the past. Reviews routinely applaud its engaging mix of authenticity and creative storytelling, making it truly one-of-a-kind.
Viewers are drawn to the way Berabō intricately weaves history with entertainment, blending factual historical figures with compelling narratives. There's great anticipation for the upcoming episodes, which promise new dynamics, challenges, and cultural explorations as Tsutaya Shōzaburō ventures beyond the confines of his past.
With its unique approach to storytelling and dedication to authenticity, Berabō stands poised to influence how stories from the past are told and celebrated through the lens of modern entertainment. Audiences appreciate the show’s ability to provoke thought and interest about Japan’s rich heritage, ensuring it remains popular as it continues its run.