NHK drama ‘Toyotomi Brothers’ episode 28 highlights Tokugawa Ieyasu’s famed Iga crossing

The 28th episode of NHK’s historical drama “Toyotomi Brothers,” which aired on July 19, follows the perspective of Toyotomi Hideyoshi’s brother, Hideyori, as Tokugawa Ieyasu (played by Kōhei Matsushita) remarks “Iga ja.” The line references Ieyasu’s legendary escape after the Honno‑ji Incident, prompting a surge of online discussion about the possible “Iga crossing.” The episode also depicts Akechi Mitsuhide’s orders to capture the lead character, the ensuing maneuvers of Oda Nobunaga’s allies, and the beginning of Hideyoshi’s “China great return” campaign.

A separate review of episode 27 examines the dramatization of Oda Nobunaga’s final moments, with actor Shun Oguri portraying Nobunaga. The analysis highlights the episode’s portrayal of internal conspiracies, the role of Akechi Mitsuhide, and the emotional impact of Nobunaga’s death, noting audience reactions on social media and praising the actors’ performances.