In 1977 her appearance in the drama Fumiko to Hatsu on the Tokyo Broadcasting System (TBS) is widely considered to be her debut work on TV.
Top-rated series to follow were: Abunai Deka on Nippon Television (NTV, 1986), Papa wa Newscaster (TBS, 1987) and Dakishimetai!
While she impressed audiences with her elegant and “weeping” role in The 101st Proposal, her enactment of the popular cartoon character Sazae-san on TV (CX, 1992–96) showcased her talent for comedy.
Then in contrast she performed a hard-edged role in the series Sashow the Last Case (CX, 1995), pointing to her skillful flexibility in acting.
Endorsement deals ensued with Menicon, Mercian, Mitsubishi Motors, Sony, Japan Airlines, Japan Tobacco, Meiji Ice Cream, GC Card, Mitsui Life Insurance, Lion Plain & Rich, Shiseido, Nissan Motors, MonCafe, Twinings, NEC, Parco, Vivre, Vital Rich, Loreal, and P&G Luminesse.