Synopsis

Will air in Summer 2026 on NHK General.
 
This is a Special drama reboot of Zenigata Heiji, based on the books by Nomura Kodo.
This drama depicts a major incident that transformed Zenigata Heiji from an ordinary okappiki (Edo-period police assistant) into a name known throughout Edo. Relentlessly pursuing the truth and determined to uphold justice, the legendary hero Zenigata Heiji is portrayed from a fresh new perspective.
 
The story begins when a man’s body is discovered within the grounds of a Shinto shrine. In his pocket, investigators find a scrap of paper that appears to be a building blueprint. Heiji’s fellow okappiki, Manshichi, quickly assumes it was nothing more than a simple robbery gone wrong. However, Zenigata Heiji is not convinced and senses something far more suspicious behind the incident.
 
According to Sasano Shinzaburo of the Minamimachi Bugyosho, there are signs that a major conspiracy may be unfolding behind the scenes. The magistrate’s office is therefore treating the case as a matter of serious concern.
rusting Zenigata Heiji’s sharp instincts, Sasano Shinzaburo asks him to help investigate the case.
At the same time, a traveling performance troupe arrives in Edo and quickly becomes the talk of the town. Its star performer Tsubame draws crowds with her songs and stage presence, though Zenigata Heiji quietly notes the sadness in her eyes.
 
When a kawaraban (Edo-period news sheet) reports a romance between Tsubame and a fellow troupe member, the story spreads rapidly through Edo. Suspicion soon grows within the troupe as members begin to wonder who leaked the information.