Japanese high school dramas have this special charm – they beautifully capture youth, heartbreak, first love, and everything in between. If you’re into stories that are both touching and sometimes a little dramatic, here’s a list of high school J-dramas you definitely don’t want to miss. From sweet romances to mysterious twists, these shows dive deep into the ups and downs of teenage life.
Here are some Japanese High School Dramas that deserve a spot on your watchlist:
1. Meet Me After School
Best Japanese High School Dramas Cast: Arimura Kasumi, Okada Kenshi, Machida Keita
This one’s not your usual high school romance. Hijiri is a new teacher engaged to her long-distance boyfriend, but things get complicated when one of her students, Akira, falls for her. As lines begin to blur, the drama explores themes of forbidden love, loneliness, and emotional connection. It’s a slow burn, but it’s worth watching if you’re into more mature and complicated love stories.
2. Switched
Best Japanese High School Dramas Cast: Kiyohara Kaya, Tomohiro Kamiyama, Miu Tomita, Daiki Shingeoka
“Switched” adds a supernatural twist to high school drama. Ayumi is popular and living her best life until one day she suddenly switches bodies with her quiet classmate Zenko. What starts off as strange soon turns dark as Zenko doesn’t want to switch back. It’s a gripping story about self- worth, jealousy, and how we view others.
3. Chastity High
Best Japanese High School Dramas Cast: Mizuki Itagaki, Anna Yamada, Riku Hagiwara, Natsumi Okamoto
Set in an elite high school where dating is strictly banned, “Chastity High” is full of secrets, drama, and rebellion. When a mysterious social media account starts exposing students’ personal lives, chaos erupts. If you enjoy stories about school scandals and hidden truths, this one has all the drama you need.
4. After-School Doctor
Best Japanese High School Dramas Cast: Hiroshi Abe, Mei Nagano, Rina Kawaei
A bit different from your usual school drama, “ After School Doctor” follows Dr. Makino, who’s assigned to a school as the in-house paediatrician. While he starts off cold and uninterested, he slowly becomes a key figure in the students ’lives, helping them deal with both physical and emotional struggles. It’s heartfelt and gives you all the warm, fuzzy feelings.
5. Love and Fortune
Best Japanese High School Dramas Cast: Eita Nagayama, Rena Tanaka, Haruna Kawaguchi, Amane Okayama
This one’s for viewers who prefer bold and controversial storytelling. Wako, a 30-year-old woman stuck in a dull relationship, unexpectedly falls for a high school student named Yumeaki. Their growing attraction challenges societal norms and dives deep into desire, loneliness, and the emotional messiness of age-gap relationships. “Love and Fortune” is mature, thought-provoking, and definitely not your typical high school drama.
6. Regret From My School Days
Best Japanese High School Dramas Cast: Ryo Nishikido, Hikari Mitsushima, Kento Nagayama
Also known as Gomen ne Seishun! This drama blends comedy with deep emotions. Heisuke, a teacher at his old school, still carries guilt from a past mistake he made as a student. Now he’s trying to guide new students while also seeking redemption. It’s quirky, fun, and surprisingly meaningful
7. First Love
Best Japanese High School Dramas Cast: Hikari Mitsushima, Takeru Satoh, Rikako Yagi, Taisei Kido
Inspired by Hikaru Utada’s legendary songs “ First Love” and “Hatsukoi,” this Netflix original follows Yae and Harumichi, high school sweethearts who drift apart but never really forget each other. The show spans decades and perfectly captures the bittersweet feelings of young love, growing up, and second chances.
8. Good Morning Call
Best Japanese High School Dramas Cast: Haruka Fukuhara, Shunya Shiraishi, Dori Sakurada, Moe Arai
A light–hearted rom–com where Nao ends up living in the same apartment as Hisashi, the most popular guy in school, thanks to a rental scam. Forced to keep it a secret and live together, things get complicated ( and hilarious). It’s full of fluff, laughs, and a cute slow–burn romance.
9. Boys Over Flowers Season 2
Best Japanese High School Dramas Cast: Hana Sugisaki, Sho Hirano, Taishi Nakagawa, Marie litoyo
A continuation of the iconic Boys Over Flowers series, this sequel is set at the same elite Eitoku Academy. The rich and rebellious C5 group rules the school, but everything starts to change when Oto, a hardworking girl with a secret, enters their lives. Drama, love triangles, and school politics? Check, check, and check.
10. From Me to You
Best Japanese High School Dramas Cast: Oji Suzuka, Sara Minami
This heartfelt coming-of-age story is about Sawako, a kind and shy girl who’s misunderstood because she looks like a horror movie character. But everything begins to change when popular and kind-hearted Kazehaya becomes her friend. It’s a sweet, slow-burning romance with an uplifting message about acceptance and self-love.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re in the mood for sweet romance, mystery, drama, or a good cry, these high school Japanese dramas truly deliver. They take you back to those unforgettable school days — the friendships, heartbreaks, awkward moments, and first loves. So, grab some snacks, get cozy, and add these to your watchlist!
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