[4] The anime adaptation series, produced by Madhouse and directed by Jun Shishido, was broadcast on the Japanese television network NHK on Saturday mornings.

The second season, titled Saiunkoku Monogatari Second Series (彩雲国物語 第2シリーズ) began airing on April 7, 2007, and consists of another 39 episodes, ending its run on March 8, 2008.

Set in the fictional empire of Saiunkoku, the story centers on Shurei Hong (Ko), a descendant of a noble family that has fallen on hard times.

Shurei teaches in the temple school and works odd jobs to make ends meet, but her dream is to pass the imperial examinations and take a post in government, a career path forbidden to women.

The story details the hardships of creating change, especially as a woman, Shurei's growing relationship with the Emperor and other members of the court, the intrigues of imperial politics, and her commitment to better herself and her country.

Written by Sai Yukino and illustrated by Kairi Yura, the light novel series The Story of Saiunkoku has been serialized in The Beans since 2003.

[26][27] Written by Sain Yukino and illustrated by Kairi Yura, a manga adaptation of The Story of Saiunkoku began serialization in Beans Ace in 2005 where it continues to run.

[4] Produced by Madhouse and directed by Jun Shishido, the anime adaptation of The Story of Saiunkoku premiered in Japan on NHK on April 8, 2006.

The Story of Saiunkoku Original Soundtrack (彩雲国物語 オリジナルサウンドトラック 1) was released on August 4, 2008, containing 38 individual tracks, including the television length opening and ending themes.

The first series, The Story of Saiunkoku Drama Bangai (彩雲国物語 ドラマ), spanned three volumes and covered the first season of the anime.

[59][60][61] The second series, The Story of Saiunkoku Anime Drama Dai ni Kan (アニメ「彩雲国物語」ドラマCD 第二巻), also spanned three CDs which were released between August 25, 2006, and December 21, 2007.

[68] Directed by Zhu Shao Jie, the drama will star Li Yitong, Zeng Shunxi, Deng Wei, Dai Lu Wa, Riley Wang, Hongxin Cheng, Tian Jiarui, Jian Yu Xi, Fan Jingwen, and Jerome.D.

Hosted by Tomokazu Seki and Hikaru Midorikawa, the program included mini-stories and special guests discussion the series.