Segodon (2018)
The epic NHK taiga drama tracing the turbulent life of Saigo Takamori, Japan's legendary samurai hero of the Meiji Restoration.
Segodon - Series Information
- Original Title: 西郷どん
- First Air Year: 2018
- Last Air Year: 2018
- Written by: Miho Nakazono
- Type: TV Series
- Genres: Drama, War, Politics
- Episode Runtime: Average runtime per episode (45 minutes)
- Number of Seasons: 1
- Number of Episodes: 47
- Status: Ended
- Original Language: Japanese
- Spoken Languages: Japanese
- Networks: NHK BS1
- Alternative Titles: Segodon (US), 西郷（せご）どん (JP), 西乡殿 (CN)
- Production Companies: NHK
- Production Countries: Japan
Segodon - Plot
Saigo Takamori, the hero of the Meiji Restoration, was born to a poor, low-ranking samurai family in the Satsuma domain (present day Kagoshima Prefecture). His simple honesty caught the attention of its charismatic feudal lord of Satsuma, Shimazu Nariakira. Nariakira's assertion that the love of people is what will enrich and strengthen the nation captivated Saigo who took on Nariakira's secret mission and eventually became a key person for Satsuma. Not a portrait of him survives today and much of his life is a mystery. He is a man who was twice exiled and thrice married. He overthrew the Tokugawa Shogunate with exceptional bravery and action. Although he accomplished the restoration, he lost his life in a fight with the new Meiji government.
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Segodon - Cast & Crew
Writer(s)
- Miho Nakazono
Main Cast
- Ryohei Suzuki
- Eita Nagayama
- Ken Watanabe
- Gota Watabe
- Muga Tsukaji
- Yukiya Kitamura
- Kumi Mizuno
- Mitsuomi Takahashi
- Hitomi Miyauchi
- Arata Horii
Segodon - FAQs
Is Segodon based on a true story?
Segodon is rooted in the real life of Saigo Takamori, one of Japan's most celebrated historical figures and a central force behind the Meiji Restoration. While the drama fictionalizes certain personal relationships and inner motivations, the major political events and historical milestones depicted are grounded in documented history.
Who plays Saigo Takamori in Segodon?
Ryohei Suzuki takes on the lead role of Saigo Takamori, portraying the samurai's journey from a humble, low-ranking warrior in the Satsuma domain to one of the most powerful and ultimately tragic figures of 19th-century Japan. His performance anchors the entire 47-episode series.
What is Segodon about?
Segodon chronicles the extraordinary life of Saigo Takamori, a poor samurai whose integrity and courage drew the attention of Satsuma's lord Shimazu Nariakira. From secret missions to political upheaval, Saigo becomes a driving force behind the fall of the Tokugawa Shogunate, only to later clash fatally with the very government he helped create.
Where can I watch Segodon?
Segodon originally aired on NHK BS1 in Japan throughout 2018. For international viewers, streaming availability varies by region. Check JustWatch for the most up-to-date viewing options available in your country, including any subscription, rental, or purchase platforms currently carrying the series.
What is a taiga drama and is Segodon one?
A taiga drama is NHK's prestigious annual historical epic, typically spanning a full year of weekly broadcasts and focusing on a major figure from Japanese history. Segodon is the 57th taiga drama, airing in 2018, and follows the tradition of grand-scale period storytelling rooted in the jidaigeki and bakumatsu eras.
How many episodes does Segodon have?
Segodon consists of 47 episodes across a single season, each running approximately 45 minutes. The series aired on NHK BS1 throughout 2018, following the full arc of Saigo Takamori's life from his youth in the Satsuma domain to his final, fateful stand against the Meiji government.
Did Ken Watanabe appear in Segodon?
Ken Watanabe, one of Japan's most internationally recognized actors, plays Shimazu Nariakira, the visionary feudal lord of Satsuma whose philosophy deeply shapes Saigo Takamori's worldview. His portrayal of the charismatic lord who believed that the love of people enriches a nation is one of the drama's most compelling performances.
What are similar shows to Segodon?
Fans of Segodon often enjoy other Japanese historical dramas such as Shōgun (both the 1980 and acclaimed 2024 versions), Jin (2009), and Toshiie and Matsu (2002). For something with a different tone but equally rich Japanese storytelling, Mushi-Shi (2005) and The Eccentric Family (2013) are also worth exploring.
More About Segodon
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