Synopsis

Cast & Crew

Episodes

Reviews (5)

Set in the vibrant, chaotic streets of Edo-period Japan, *Mayonaka no Kita-san, Yaji-san* is a wildly unconventional love story that defies every historical drama expectation. Yaji (Kudo Kankuro) is a married man struggling to balance societal duty with his deep, secret love for Kita (Doi Atsushi), a flamboyant actor caught in the grip of drug addiction. Their passionate yet tumultuous relationship takes a surreal turn when a mysterious advertisement for the Grand Shrine at Ise ignites a madcap pilgrimage across the country. Part slapstick comedy, part poignant romance, the film weaves together absurd adventures, theatrical flair, and raw emotional moments. Director Kankuro Kudo (who also stars) crafts a story that celebrates love in all its messy, imperfect forms—unflinching in its portrayal of addiction and infidelity, yet brimming with dark humor and tenderness. With its period setting but modern queer sensibility, this cult classic offers a rare glimpse into a historical gay relationship, blending kabuki-style theatricality with heartfelt intimacy. The result is an unpredictable, genre-bending ride that is as hilarious as it is heartbreaking.

Kudo Kankuro

Cast

Doi Atsushi

Cast

Nagase Tomoya

Cast

Nakamura Shichinosuke II

Cast

Takeuchi Riki

Cast

Minagawa Sarutoki

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Aso Kumiko

Cast

Koike Eiko

Cast

Matsuo Suzuki

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Arakawa Yoshiyoshi

Cast

Iura Arata

Cast

Abe Sadawo

Cast

Episode data is coming soon.

6.7

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sakura_blossom_love

Jan 15, 2024

9/10

I went in expecting a wild ride and got so much more. Yaji and Kita's love story is messy, beautiful, and utterly heartbreaking. The scene where they finally embrace after all the chaos made me sob. This is the kind of queer historical romance I've been starving for.

cinephile_ken

Mar 10, 2024

6/10

I appreciate the boldness, but the plot is all over the place. The first half is hilarious, the second half drags with drug-induced melodrama. It feels like two different movies stitched together. Still, the performances are solid and the ending is surprisingly earned.

visual_feast_jp

Nov 22, 2023

8/10

Every frame is a painting. The use of color—vibrant kimonos against muddy Edo streets—creates a gorgeous contrast that mirrors the characters' inner turmoil. The kabuki-inspired staging and theatrical lighting are genius. This film is a visual feast for anyone who loves art direction.

ethical_eyes_queer

Jul 5, 2024

7/10

I appreciate that the film doesn't romanticize addiction or cheat on a spouse—it shows the pain. But Yaji's treatment of his wife is brushed aside too quickly. For 2005, it's progressive, but today I find the power dynamics and consent issues worth discussing. Still, a bold step for queer representation.

melody_of_destiny

Aug 30, 2024

7/10

The music is a character in itself—blending traditional shamisen with off-kilter modern beats. The opening theme perfectly captures the film's chaotic energy. I wish the score was available on streaming; I'd listen to it on repeat.