The Hyakunin Isshu are an anthology of one hundred poems found in a trational Japanese card game called Karuta. Presented by the person who selected the writings, Fujiwara no Teika, this is a glimpse into the origin of some of them. Since the majority of them are love compositions, the focus remains on romance in ancient Japan.
Episode 1
Narihira is quite the ladies’ man, but when the bride to be of emperor catches his eye, he begins to change. Yukihira, his oldest brother, was always the opposite when it came to love.
Episode 2
Sadaakira became emperor at the age of 9 and for a time was served by Narihira, who attempted to teach him how to become a man.
Episode 3
If you visit her every night for 100 nights, she will be yours to marry. But her true dream lies at the palace.
Episode 4
Three poets, three different styles, each express their reason and why they write poetry.
Episode 5
Yoshiko, Yasuhide, and Narihira have grown to be great friends. Yasuhide is being sent to Mikawa and Narihira is leaving too. The three friends spend an evening together gazing at the stars.
Episode 6
G1 Grand Prix in the Heian Capital, Teika's Room, and Heian card battle. Prepare for an intense non-stop episode.
Episode 7
Michitaka believes Yoshitaka relationship has gone stale and tries to help. Afterwards he needs some help with lady troubles of his own.
Episode 8
Two couples very much in love, but even time can erode at something once thought unbreakable.
Episode 9
Yukinari’s father had a natural gift for poetry, a gift not passed on. Yukinari’s anti-social nature is affecting his reputation within the palace, in particular with the ladies of the court.
Episode 10
With the death of a prominent figure and a shakeup within the hierarchy of the palace, many things are changing and the old poets of the palace are moving on.
Episode 11
Two friends form a bond as children and promise to keep it, as adults they learn things change.
Episode 12
A chance for love takes courage, not pride.
Episode 13
A young man, not wanting to follow in his father’s footsteps, is drawn to the world of poetry by an untouchable source.
