Blossom drama follows the life of author Uno Chiyo

The NHK morning drama Blossom, starring Shizuka Ishibashi, is entering its third week titled ‘Makeup and First Love.’ The series is inspired by the life of author Uno Chiyo, depicting her journey from her upbringing in Iwakuni to her career as a novelist amidst the turbulent Meiji, Taisho, and Showa eras.

In recent episodes, the protagonist Tama (played by Ishibashi) begins working as a substitute teacher at an elementary school. While she struggles to support a student who has become frequently absent, she faces discouragement from colleagues. Meanwhile, her acquaintance Shinobu announces her intention to move to Tokyo to become a women's reporter, providing Tama with new inspiration.

The drama also explores the character of Tama's father, Seiji (played by Atsuro Watabe), a dissolute man whose strict and often harsh parenting style mirrors the historical accounts of Uno Chiyo's own father. The narrative highlights the challenges Tama faces, including family pressures and the social shifts of the early 20th century.