Looking for fun Japanese shows on Netflix to watch that aren’t anime? As always, Netflix has got us covered!
In fact, they just revealed an exciting slate of unscripted Japanese content, from outrageous variety shows to unique dating formats, that feature Japan’s unique entertainment culture.
5 Fun Japanese Shows on Netflix You Should Look Forward To
Lighthouse
Premieres August 22, 2023
Photo from Netflix
Lighthouse features musician-actor Gen Hoshino and comedian Masayasu Wakabayashi (from the comedy duo Audrey) embarking on a six-month conversation based on “single-line journal” where they share their personal stories, struggles, and fears with each other and the viewers. This creative approach to comedy showcases two of Japan’s top entertainers as you’ve never seen them before.
Is She the Wolf?
Premieres September 3, 2023
Photo from Netflix
Some of our favorite Japanese shows on Netflix are dating shows. Dating show Is She The Wolf? is a series that originated as Who Is The Wolf? on ABEMA, featuring contestants with secret identities as ‘wolves’ who were not allowed to fall for anyone. Netflix worked with ABEMA to appeal to a broader audience and experiment with storytelling.
Love Village Season 2
Photo from Netflix
In its first season on Netflix this year, dating show Love Village broke new ground by featuring ordinary people aged 35 to 60 searching for love — the first time a Japanese reality show focused on this demographic. Season 2 will continue fleshing out this creative concept with new contestants and returning fan-favorite emcees Atsushi Tamura and Becky.
Last One Standing Season 2
Premieres October 10, 2023
Photo from Netflix
Last One Standing has been described as the Squid Game of unscripted comedy in terms of the Japanese shows on Netflix. The first season on Netflix last year saw Japanese comedians competing to improvise funny stories in their own words while they play roles in a serious drama series. In the upcoming Season 2, a new group of Japan’s comedians will be sharing more of their own stories. This new season continues to be helmed by top creator-producer Nobuyuki Sakuma.
Love Like a KDrama
Premieres November 28, 2023
Photo from Netflix
Love Like a K-Drama is an innovative hybrid where K-Drama romance meets acting competition as four Japanese actresses and four Korean actors are paired up to try and land lead roles in six K-dramas. It features lively commentary from studio emcees Haruna Kondo (Harisenbon), Aa-CHAN (Perfume), Shusuke Fukutoku (Jarujaru), Hayato Komori (GENERATIONS), and Maria Tani.
Which one of these Japanese shows on Netflix are you most excited about?
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