Asa ga Kita (2015)

Asa ga Kita begins in the late Edo period, focusing on Asa, a spirited young girl from a wealthy family in Osaka. The story opens with Asa's childhood, where she is shown to be curious and ambitious, often dreaming of a future where she can contribute to society. Her father, a successful merchant, encourages her education, which is unusual for girls of that time. Asa's strong will and determination are evident as she navigates societal expectations.

As Asa grows up, she meets and falls in love with a young man named Saito, who is from a lower social class. Their relationship is complicated by the class differences and the expectations placed upon Asa by her family. Asa's father disapproves of Saito, believing he is not a suitable match for his daughter. Despite this, Asa and Saito share a deep bond, and their love story unfolds with moments of tenderness and conflict.

Asa's life takes a turn when her father falls ill and passes away, leaving her family in a precarious financial situation. This event forces Asa to confront the realities of her family's business and the responsibilities that come with it. She steps up to help manage the family affairs, showcasing her intelligence and leadership skills. Asa's determination to save her family's business becomes a central theme as she navigates the challenges of being a woman in a male-dominated society.

In the midst of these challenges, Asa's relationship with Saito deepens, but societal pressures continue to loom over them. Asa's mother, who is also struggling with the loss of her husband, becomes increasingly reliant on Asa for support. This dynamic adds emotional weight to Asa's journey as she balances her personal desires with familial obligations.

As the story progresses, Asa's business acumen begins to shine. She makes bold decisions to modernize the family business, introducing new practices and ideas that challenge traditional norms. Her innovative approach attracts attention, but it also brings resistance from those who are set in their ways. Asa's determination to succeed is met with both admiration and criticism, highlighting the struggles women faced during this period.

A significant turning point occurs when Asa is presented with an opportunity to expand the family business further. She must decide whether to take a risk that could either elevate their status or lead to their downfall. Asa chooses to embrace the challenge, driven by her desire to honor her father's legacy and secure a better future for her family.

Asa's relationship with Saito faces further trials as he grapples with his own ambitions and societal expectations. He is torn between supporting Asa and pursuing his own dreams, which leads to tension between them. Their love is tested as they navigate their individual paths, and Asa's unwavering commitment to her goals sometimes puts a strain on their relationship.

The narrative takes a dramatic turn when Asa's business decisions lead to unforeseen consequences. A rival merchant attempts to undermine her efforts, creating obstacles that threaten the stability of her family's business. Asa must confront this adversary head-on, showcasing her resilience and strategic thinking. The confrontation is intense, with Asa employing her wit and determination to outmaneuver her opponent.

As the story nears its climax, Asa faces a personal crisis that forces her to reevaluate her priorities. The pressures of her business, family obligations, and her relationship with Saito culminate in a moment of self-reflection. Asa realizes that she must find a balance between her ambitions and her personal life, leading to a pivotal decision about her future.

In the final act, Asa's journey comes full circle as she embraces her identity as a businesswoman and a partner. She reconciles her relationship with Saito, understanding that they can support each other's dreams while still pursuing their individual paths. Asa's growth is evident as she stands firm in her beliefs and continues to challenge societal norms.

The series concludes with Asa achieving a sense of fulfillment, both in her personal and professional life. She has transformed from a young girl with dreams into a formidable woman who has made her mark in a changing society. The final scenes depict Asa looking towards the future with hope and determination, embodying the spirit of progress and resilience that defines her character throughout the series.

In the ending of "Asa ga Kita," the story culminates with the resolution of various character arcs, particularly focusing on Asa's journey of self-discovery and her contributions to the family business. Asa's husband, Bunzo, faces challenges but ultimately finds a way to support her ambitions. The series concludes with a sense of hope and fulfillment as Asa embraces her role in both her family and society.

As the final episodes unfold, we see Asa, now a mature and accomplished woman, reflecting on her life and the choices she has made. The narrative begins with a scene in the family home, where Asa is surrounded by her children and Bunzo. The atmosphere is warm, filled with laughter and the aroma of home-cooked meals. Asa's eyes sparkle with pride as she watches her children grow, embodying the values she has instilled in them.

In the next scene, Asa visits the family business, a textile company that has flourished under her guidance. The factory is bustling with activity, and Asa walks through the aisles, greeting workers with a smile. She feels a deep sense of satisfaction, knowing that her efforts have not only improved the business but also empowered the women who work there. Asa's internal motivation is clear; she wants to create a legacy that honors her family's history while paving the way for future generations.

Meanwhile, Bunzo is seen in his office, contemplating the challenges he has faced as a husband and businessman. He has struggled with the societal expectations placed upon him, but he has come to realize the importance of supporting Asa's ambitions. In a pivotal moment, he approaches Asa in the factory, expressing his admiration for her strength and determination. This scene is charged with emotion, as both characters acknowledge the sacrifices they have made for each other and their family.

As the series progresses, we witness a gathering of the family and friends to celebrate the success of the business. The atmosphere is festive, filled with music and laughter. Asa stands at the center, beaming with joy as she delivers a heartfelt speech about perseverance and the importance of community. Her words resonate deeply with everyone present, highlighting the series' themes of resilience and empowerment.

In the final moments, the camera pans out to show Asa and Bunzo walking hand in hand, their children playing nearby. The sun sets in the background, casting a golden hue over the scene, symbolizing a new beginning. Asa's journey has come full circle; she has not only found her place in the world but has also inspired those around her to pursue their dreams.

The series concludes with a sense of closure for all main characters. Asa has become a beacon of hope and strength, Bunzo has embraced his role as a supportive partner, and their children are poised to carry forward the values instilled in them. The final shot captures the essence of family, love, and the enduring spirit of perseverance, leaving viewers with a lasting impression of the journey they have witnessed.

"Asa ga Kita," the 2015 NHK morning drama, does not feature a post-credit scene. The series concludes with its final episode, wrapping up the story of Asa, a determined woman who navigates the challenges of the Meiji era in Japan. The focus remains on her journey, her family, and her contributions to the development of the modern banking system, rather than any additional scenes after the credits. The narrative is designed to provide closure to Asa's character arc and the relationships she has built throughout the series.

Asa, a determined and ambitious young woman, faces numerous challenges in her pursuit of education and business. Initially, she struggles against societal expectations that prioritize women's roles in the home over their ambitions. Her father, while supportive, is also traditional, which creates tension as she seeks to break free from these constraints. Asa's journey is marked by her relentless pursuit of knowledge, often leading her to confront the skepticism of those around her, including her husband, who initially doubts her capabilities. As she navigates the male-dominated business world, she faces obstacles such as financial difficulties, the need to gain respect from male counterparts, and the challenge of balancing her family life with her aspirations.

Asa's relationship with her husband, Sōji, evolves significantly throughout the series. Initially, Sōji is portrayed as a supportive partner, but he struggles to fully understand Asa's ambitions. As Asa becomes more involved in her business ventures, Sōji's insecurities surface, leading to moments of tension and conflict. However, as the series progresses, Sōji begins to recognize Asa's determination and the importance of her work. This realization fosters a deeper respect and admiration for her, ultimately strengthening their bond. Their relationship is characterized by moments of vulnerability, where both characters must confront their own fears and expectations, leading to a more equal partnership.

Asa's family plays a crucial role in her journey towards success, serving both as a source of support and conflict. Her father, a progressive thinker, encourages her education and ambitions, which instills in her the belief that she can achieve her dreams. However, her mother embodies traditional values, often expressing concern over Asa's unconventional choices. This familial dynamic creates internal conflict for Asa, as she grapples with her desire to honor her family's expectations while pursuing her own path. Additionally, Asa's children become a focal point of her motivation; she strives to create a better future for them, which drives her to overcome obstacles in her business endeavors.

Several significant events lead to Asa's breakthrough in the business world. One pivotal moment occurs when she decides to take a bold step by investing in a new venture, despite the risks involved. This decision is fueled by her desire to prove herself and to challenge the status quo. Another key event is when Asa successfully navigates a major business negotiation, showcasing her intelligence and determination. This moment not only earns her respect from her male counterparts but also solidifies her reputation as a capable businesswoman. Additionally, Asa's ability to adapt to changing circumstances, such as economic downturns and personal setbacks, demonstrates her resilience and commitment to her goals, ultimately leading to her success.

Asa's character is a reflection of the changing roles of women in Meiji-era Japan, embodying the struggle for female empowerment and independence. Throughout the series, Asa challenges traditional gender roles by pursuing education and a career in business, which was uncommon for women of her time. Her determination to succeed in a male-dominated society highlights the shifting perceptions of women's capabilities. Asa's journey is marked by her defiance against societal norms, as she seeks to carve out a space for herself in the business world. Her character development illustrates the broader movement towards women's rights and the gradual acceptance of women as active participants in economic and social spheres during this transformative period in Japanese history.

"Asa ga Kita," produced in 2015, is generally considered family-friendly, focusing on themes of perseverance, family, and the challenges of life during the Meiji era in Japan. However, there are a few aspects that might be considered potentially objectionable or upsetting for children or sensitive viewers:

1. Death and Loss: The series touches on themes of mortality, including the death of family members, which may evoke strong emotions.

2. Financial Struggles: Characters face significant financial hardships, leading to stress and anxiety, which could be distressing for younger viewers.

3. Social Inequality: The show portrays the struggles of women in a patriarchal society, highlighting issues of gender inequality and societal expectations that may be complex for children to understand.

4. Emotional Turmoil: Characters experience a range of emotions, including despair, frustration, and conflict, which may be intense for sensitive viewers.

5. Historical Context: Some scenes depict the harsh realities of life during the Meiji period, including the struggles of the working class, which may be difficult for younger audiences to fully grasp.

Overall, while the series is suitable for a family audience, these elements may require parental guidance for younger viewers.