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| Who Does Ebiko End Up With? Ebi Datte Tai ga Tsuritai Drama Finale Recap |
Japanese rom-com Ebi Datte Tai ga Tsuritai (海老だって鯛が釣りたい), also known as Ebiko Wants to Get a High Spec Man, wrapped up its 10-episode run on Chukyo TV with a finale that left viewers both smiling and teary-eyed.
This quirky, aquarium-themed love comedy revolved around Ebihara Tadako (aka Ebiko), played by Tanabe Momoko, a young woman trying to move on from heartbreak by dipping her toes into romance with four very different men.
The final episode has aired, clocking in at just 21 minutes but packing plenty of emotional punch.
Quick Recap of Ebi Datte Tai ga Tsuritai Final Episode
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Ebiko turns down the dream confession from her “perfect” high-spec boss Taijima Ryosuke (Sakurada Dori).
Instead, she admits her heart now belongs to Mizunuma Shu (Nakagawa Daisuke), the gentle aquarium shop manager.Overwhelmed by nerves, Ebiko blurts out “I like you, manager!” before running away.
At home, she notices her pet shrimp behaving strangely in its tank, sparking panic.
This scare pushes her back to Mizunuma’s shop where she faces him properly, finally confessing with full sincerity.
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The drama ends with Ebiko embracing her choice and stepping into her first true relationship on her own terms.
Ebi Datte Tai ga Tsuritai Ending Explained
The finale wasn’t just about Ebiko choosing between two men — it was about self-discovery and empowerment.
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Ebiko finally breaks free from being swayed by appearances or status. Rejecting Taijima, the “ideal catch,” symbolises that life isn’t about chasing perfection but about finding what genuinely makes you happy.
Mizunuma represents grounding and authenticity. By choosing him, Ebiko reclaims her agency and proves she can stand firm in her own feelings instead of relying on validation.
The shrimp tank subplot, though quirky, ties into the theme: when Ebiko sees her shrimp in trouble, it mirrors her own fear of missing out on true happiness if she doesn’t act. It becomes the trigger for her final, decisive move.
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Taijima’s bittersweet acceptance gives the drama emotional depth. His quiet smile says it all: love sometimes means stepping back.
The title itself, Ebi Datte Tai ga Tsuritai, is playfully resolved — Ebiko learns that “catching a Tai” doesn’t mean winning the fanciest fish, but recognising the Tai (true partner) she chose with her heart.
Characters Wrapped
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Ebihara Tadako / Ebiko (Tanabe Momoko) – From timid and awkward to bold and forward, Ebiko’s growth journey is the heart of the drama. Her final choice cements her arc of self-confidence.
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Mizunuma Shu (Nakagawa Daisuke) – The steady, kind manager who becomes Ebiko’s safe harbour. His quiet acceptance of her love confession is the series’ most heartwarming moment.
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Taijima Ryosuke (Sakurada Dori) – The “perfect boss” who ultimately bows out gracefully. His bittersweet smile was one of the most talked-about scenes online after the finale.
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Miura Takumi (Kusakawa Takuya) & Park Jong Su (EJ) – Fun supporting roles who added lightness and misdirection throughout.
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Okita Mamiko (Shinkawa Yua) & Izumi Saya (Kato Shiho) – Ebiko’s friends who grounded her in reality and cheered her growth.
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Momoka (Nakata Seina) – Provided comic relief while echoing the drama’s message about choosing what makes you truly happy.
TLDR + Short Review
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The finale of Ebi Datte Tai ga Tsuritai delivered a heart-fluttering yet meaningful ending. Ebiko finally chose Mizunuma over her flashy boss Taijima, proving that love is about sincerity, not status.
At just 10 episodes, the series was light, funny, and full of aquarium metaphors, but it also delivered a surprisingly thoughtful message on self-worth.
Verdict: A short but sweet J-drama with plenty of laughs, a lot of shrimp, and a heroine worth rooting for.
FAQs
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Q: Who does Ebiko end up with?
She chooses Mizunuma Shu, the aquarium shop manager, rejecting Taijima’s confession.
Q: What’s the meaning of the title?
It literally means “Even a shrimp wants to catch a sea bream.” Symbolically, it’s about aiming high in love — but the ending flips this, showing that the “true Tai” is the one you choose with your heart, not just the flashiest option.
Q: Was Taijima heartbroken?
Yes, but he accepted it gracefully. His bittersweet bench scene left fans emotional, highlighting his maturity.
Q: Is there a sequel planned?
No official word yet, but fans are calling for a spin-off focusing on Taijima’s love story.