Actress Mikako Tabe will star in NHK's morning serial drama to start next spring, the public broadcaster has announced.

Tabe, 19, will play the role of a woman who dreams of succeeding at establishing a Japanese-style confectionary store in Kawagoe, Saitama Prefecture, in the morning drama, "Tsubasa," the broadcaster said on Thursday.

It is the first time that a NHK morning drama series will be set in Saitama Prefecture. All other prefectures in Japan have hosted NHK morning drama series.

Tabe's career includes roles in the NTV drama "Yasuko and Kenji" and the movie "Saiyuki." She belongs to the same talent agency as actress Aoi Miyazaki, who starred in NHK's morning drama sequel "Junjo Kirari" two years ago.

"I've just heard that I will be the main act, and, to be honest, it has not sunk in yet. I'm simply surprised. It will take long to shoot the drama, but I hope I can convey various thoughts through it," a nervous Tabe said.

"Tsubasa" will be the 80th installment of NHK's morning drama series.

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