

Season 1 • Episode 48
LatestHistorical drama about the life of Saigō Takamori and his involvement with the Meiji Restoration.
Acting
Nishida's Saigo will wreck you quietly, then loudly, then spiritually.
Production
Taiga drama budget = historically accurate chaos and pretty kimonos.
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
Taiga dramas are Japan's annual historical obsession; this one cemented Saigo as a tragic hero for modern audiences.
Ryōtarō Shiba's novel source material was so beloved that NHK cast against type—Nishida was known for comedy before this dramatic transformation.