NHK has announced on its site that a third series of "Yagyu Jubei Nanaban Shobu" is in the works. The new series (full title: "Yagyu Jubei Nanaban Shobu: Saigo no Tatakai") takes place 12 years after the Shimabara Rebellion. The master swordsman Jubei has already begun to lead a quiet life with his wife, but he is called upon for one final mission.

Hiroaki Murakami and Riho Makise star in the drama. It is scheduled to begin on April 5 in NHK's "Mokuyo Jidaigeki" (Thursday 8:00pm) time slot.