Synopsis

Based on the manga “Hidamari no Ki” (Tree in the Sun) by legendary manga artist Tezuka Osamu, who drew from his family roots to create this historical tale. Set during the tumultuous final years of the Edo period, this drama unfolds against the backdrop of Japan’s opening to the West, the Boshin War, and the transformative Meiji Restoration.

 

At the heart of this Bakumatsu-era story are two contrasting young men bound by an unbreakable friendship. Ibuya Manjiro lives by honor and duty – a skilled samurai whose unwavering principles often clash with his poor social navigation skills. In contrast, Tezuka Ryoan embodies passion and emotion – a talented Dutch medicine practitioner (ranpoi) whose weakness for women conflicts with his medical expertise. Tezuka Ryoan is based on the great-grandfather of the original manga creator, Tezuka Osamu.

 

This coming-of-age historical drama follows these two young men as they mature through encounters with significant historical figures of the era. Their journeys of personal growth unfold against one of Japan’s most dramatic periods of change, creating a compelling youth chronicle that blends friendship, history, and the struggles of a nation in transition.