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| Cinderella Closet Japanese Drama Finale Recap: Did Haruka Choose Hikaru or Kurotaki? |
TBS’s late-night dorama Cinderella Closet (シンデレラ クロゼット) wrapped up its 10-episode run and left us with a mix of sweet, messy, and surprisingly emotional feelings.
Adapted from Yanai Wakana’s popular shōjo manga, the drama put its own spin on themes of identity, self-worth, and transformation — all while juggling romance, fashion, and that age-old “fairy godmother” twist.
Quick Recap of Cinderella Closet Final Episode
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The finale picks up after Haruka (Osaki Ichika) finally starts to accept her feelings for Hikaru (Matsumoto Leo).
What begins as a casual day out — lunch and an aquarium trip — feels more like a real date, and Haruka’s heart is racing. But because she still believes Hikaru has someone else he likes, she scolds herself for getting carried away.
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The tone shifts when Hikaru, dressed in his “boyish” look rather than his usual fashion persona, suddenly feels more distant, almost like a stranger.
Haruka tries to mask her new feelings under a “friend” smile, while Hikaru pushes her buttons with teasing behaviour. Frustrated, Haruka blurts out that he’s a “little devil”, sparking an argument that ends with Hikaru saying bluntly: “Let’s go home.”
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As the story reaches its climax, misunderstandings pile up — Haruka learns Hikaru may leave for Korea with Shu (Karma), and her tears betray how much she doesn’t want him gone.
For the first time, both characters are forced to admit that staying “just friends” is no longer enough.
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The ending time-skips to a few years later: Haruka and Hikaru are together, stronger than ever, and finally ready to move forward with marriage.
In a symbolic gesture, Hikaru offers Haruka a “glass slipper” moment — not just a romantic proposal, but a recognition that they’ve both grown into their truest selves.
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Characters Wrapped
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Haruka (Osaki Ichika)
Started as the unsure “plain jane” from the countryside, always hiding her true feelings. By the finale, she breaks out of her shell, realises her own worth, and dares to step into love with Hikaru. -
Hikaru (Matsumoto Leo)
The sharp-tongued, flamboyant “fairy godmother” who always seemed untouchable. The finale reveals his insecurities about being loved as his true self, not just as the stylish, confident version of Hikaru. His proposal shows he’s ready to be seen and loved completely. -
Kurotaki Keisuke (Hachimura Rintaro)
Haruka’s original crush, the dependable co-worker. While he does briefly date Haruka, their breakup is handled respectfully, showing her growth in choosing love that aligns with who she’s become, not who she used to be. -
Suzuki Mio (Mito Yuna)
The fashionable friend who pushes Haruka out of her comfort zone. Mio’s role may have seemed secondary, but she highlights how friendships also shape self-confidence.
Cinderella Closet Ending Explained
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The finale of Cinderella Closet isn’t just about who ends up with whom — it’s about learning to embrace the messy, awkward, but genuine parts of yourself.
Haruka’s journey is a reminder that transformations aren’t just about clothes, make-up, or looking “city-ready.”
They’re about confidence, about daring to choose what (and who) you truly want.
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Hikaru’s proposal, glass slipper and all, symbolises that both of them have shed the masks they once wore.
Haruka no longer hides behind insecurity, and Hikaru no longer hides behind his fashion persona.
Together, they’ve created a relationship built not on illusion, but on acceptance.
TLDR + Short Review
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Haruka realises she loves Hikaru, but insecurities keep them apart until the very end.
FAQs
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Q: Does Haruka end up with Kurotaki in the drama?
No — while Haruka initially dates him, they break up, and she chooses Hikaru in the end.
Q: Is the ending the same as the manga?
Largely yes. The glass slipper proposal and time skip reflect the manga’s conclusion, though details and side plots were trimmed for TV.
Q: What’s the main message of Cinderella Closet?
That true transformation isn’t about appearances — it’s about embracing who you are and daring to be loved as your authentic self.
Q: Is there room for a sequel?
While the finale wrapped things neatly with marriage on the horizon, a sequel could easily explore Haruka and Hikaru’s married life or expand on side characters like Mio.