SUKIYAKI

In 1963, as Japan emerged from the shadows of war into an era of extraordinary transformation, an unlikely song made music history. “Ue o Muite Arukou,” known internationally as “Sukiyaki,” became the first Japanese song to top the U.S. Billboard charts, remaining at No. 1 for three weeks and captivating listeners around the world.

Acclaimed director Takahisa Zeze (64, TAPESTRY) reveals the remarkable story behind this cultural phenomenon through the lives of its creators: composer Hachidai Nakamura (Junichi Okada), lyricist Rokusuke Ei (Tori Matsuzaka), and singer Kyu Sakamoto (Taiga Nakano). Together, the legendary “689 Trio” navigates friendship, artistic ambition, clashing personalities, and the pressures of sudden success while creating some of Japan’s most enduring popular music. Featuring exhilarating musical performances and a superb ensemble cast, SUKIYAKI is a sweeping celebration of creativity and collaboration, and the extraordinary journey of a Japanese song that transcended language and borders to become a global anthem.

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