🎥 Top 5 Japanese Shows to Watch on Netflix

Looking for your next binge-worthy show? Whether you’re learning Japanese or simply curious about Japanese culture, Netflix offers a wide range of Japanese series that are entertaining, emotional, and thought-provoking. Here are 5 top Japanese shows on Netflix that you shouldn’t miss.

1. Midnight Diner: Tokyo Stories (深夜食堂)

Genre: Drama / Slice of Life

Why watch it:
Set in a tiny late-night diner in Shinjuku, each episode focuses on a different customer and their personal story. With simple yet touching plots and authentic Japanese dialogue, this is perfect for language learners. The slow pace and relatable human themes make it a beautiful window into Japanese life.

🍜 Bonus: You’ll pick up real-life Japanese expressions used in daily conversations.

2. Alice in Borderland (今際の国のアリス)

Genre: Sci-fi / Thriller / Survival

Why watch it:
Based on a manga, this action-packed series throws ordinary people into a deadly game in a mysterious, empty Tokyo. It’s suspenseful, stylish, and filled with cliffhangers. If you liked Squid Game, you’ll love this.

🎮 Great for fans of psychological drama and survival games.

3. Terrace House (テラスハウス)

Genre: Reality / Slice of Life

Why watch it:
This reality show follows six strangers (three men and three women) living under one roof in Japan. It’s unscripted, natural, and a great way to hear casual Japanese in real settings—perfect for learners who want to improve their listening skills.

🏡 Expect subtle romance, awkward silences, and cultural insights. Good listening practice through actual daily conversation.

4. The Makanai: Cooking for the Maiko House (舞娘さんちのまかないさん)

Genre: Drama / Culture / Food

Why watch it:
Set in Kyoto’s traditional maiko (apprentice geisha) house, this gentle and heartwarming series shows the life of young women training in the geisha arts. It’s full of beautiful visuals, traditional culture, and mouthwatering Japanese home-cooking.

🍱 A peaceful and charming glimpse into traditional Japanese life.

5. Love is Blind: Japan

Genre: Reality / Romance

Why watch it:
This Japanese adaptation of the global hit dating show features men and women getting to know each other without seeing each other’s faces. It offers a fascinating look at how Japanese people express love, navigate relationships, and communicate emotions.

💞 A great way to understand cultural values and communication styles in Japanese dating.

These shows aren’t just entertaining—they’re also a great way to immerse yourself in Japanese language, culture, and everyday expressions. Whether you’re a beginner or advanced learner, watching Japanese TV can boost your listening skills and cultural understanding.

🎬 What’s your favorite Japanese show on Netflix? Share in the comments!

If you want to learn Japanese, improve your skills, or connect with native speakers and other learners, we can help. We offer one-on-one lessons, a supportive community, and on demand courses.

Website: nihongonana.com
Email: support@nihongonana.com

✅Book 1-on-1 lessons: https://nihongonana.com/lessons/
✅Join our community: https://nihongonana.com/community/
✅Access courses: https://nihongonana.com/courses/