"Chōyaku Hyakunin Isshu: Uta Koi" is a historical romance anime that intertwines the lives of classical Japanese poets with the creation of their famous waka poems, as featured in the Hyakunin Isshu anthology. The series is structured as a collection of episodic stories, each focusing on different poets and their personal experiences, often blending historical facts with fictionalized romantic narratives.

The anime is set in the Heian period, a time when courtly love and poetic expression were central to aristocratic life. Each episode delves into the relationships, emotions, and circumstances that inspired the poets to compose their verses. The narrative explores themes of love, longing, heartbreak, and the complexities of human relationships, often highlighting the tension between personal desires and societal expectations.

Key characters include prominent poets such as Ariwara no Narihira, known for his passionate and often tragic love affairs, and Ono no Komachi, a celebrated female poet whose beauty and talent made her a legendary figure. Other notable figures include Fujiwara no Teika, the compiler of the Hyakunin Isshu, and various court nobles, lovers, and rivals who shaped the poets' lives and works.

The series balances historical accuracy with creative interpretation, presenting the poets as relatable individuals whose emotions and struggles resonate across time. The episodic format allows for a diverse exploration of different personalities and relationships, offering a multifaceted view of Heian-era culture and the enduring legacy of its poetry. Through its storytelling, "Chōyaku Hyakunin Isshu: Uta Koi" provides both an educational and emotional journey into the world of classical Japanese literature and the human experiences behind its creation.