Yae no Sakura is the 52nd NHK taiga drama that was aired in 2013. It is a biographical depiction of Niijima Yae, also known as Yamamoto Yaeko, famed for her exceptional gunnery skills which she applied to great effect in defending the Aizu Domain during the Boshin War. This momentous event during the late Endo period forever immortalised her as “Jeanne d'Arc of Bakumatsu”. Subsequently during the Meiji era, she then became renowned for helping establish the prestigious Doshisha University in Kyoto, together with her husband Joseph Hardy Neesima.

Released in 50 episodes, this drama is epic in every single aspect. The screenplay is written by 3 screenwriters while 5 directors were engaged to helm this mammoth production. Starring a stellar ensemble led by the charismatic Ayase Haruka who is superbly supported by the likes of Odagiri Joe, Hasegawa Hiroki, and Nishijima Hidetoshi among many other supporting and guest actors.

There is an inspirational backstory to the release of Yae no Sakura. It was chosen as the 2013 taiga drama as its central narrative of loss and hope was felt to be timely in the aftermath of the March 11, 2011 Tohoku earthquake.

Personally for me, I consider Yae no Sakura as one of the most endearing biopics that I’ve ever come across. From the profoundly colourful story filled with numerous illustrious historical figures, the intricate details of the events that unfolded amidst the traditions of the era, to the themes exploring in great depth the changing role of women in the new modern Japan, as championed by Niijima Yae.

This is a big budget and high quality production that features exemplary cinematography, elaborately authentic sets, exquisite costumes, decently-executed action choreography and battle scenes, as well as beautifully shot natural landscapes, among various other aspects. Principal photography took place at Aizu region of Fukushima prefecture and Tsuruga Castle, also known as Wakamatsu Castle, Aizuwakamatsu Castle, and Kurokawa Castle. In the drama it is translated as Aizu Castle. It is a Japanese castle located in Otemachi, Aizuwakamatsu City, Fukushima Prefecture where the major battle between Aizu samurai warriors and government forces actually took place.

This drama is memorable for being the first production in 28 years since Haru no Hatou in 1985 where the actual person on which the main character is based remained alive until the Showa period. Additionally, it was the first time that a video footage of the actual main character of a taiga drama was used in the drama.

The performance of the entire cast is nothing short of remarkable where each of them gave a decent account of themselves. The real star of the show is undoubtedly Ayase Haruka. Her portrayal of Niijima Yae is testament to the immense talent and finesse that she possesses. Her captivating performance here garnered her the 10th TVnavi Drama of the Year 2013 leading actress award, adding to an already accomplished list of accolades. It’s worth mentioning the wonderful performance of the child actress Suzuki Rio, who played the younger version of Yamamoto Yaeko. She was both adorable and compelling in her depiction, despite the limited screen appearance that she had.

Special mention as well of the beautifully performed main theme of the drama, which was scored by the award-winning composer Ryuichi Sakamoto, in what was the first time he had ever composed music for a taiga drama.

50 episodes represent massive viewing hours indeed, but for Yae no Sakura, it was utterly worth every second. This drama presents a truly compelling insight into Japan’s culture and history during the transitioning of the Edo period to the Meiji era. If you’re a fan of Japanese dramas, her beautiful culture and exciting history, I strongly urge you to give this production a watch. It will definitely be worth your time.