"Chōyaku Hyakunin Isshu: Uta Koi" is a historical romance manga that intertwines the lives of classical Japanese poets with fictionalized romantic narratives, drawing inspiration from the "Hyakunin Isshu," a famous anthology of 100 poems by 100 poets. The series reimagines the lives and relationships of these poets, blending historical context with creative storytelling to explore themes of love, longing, and human connection.

The narrative is episodic, with each chapter or arc focusing on a different poet or pair of poets, often highlighting their most famous poems and the emotions behind them. Central to the story are the romantic entanglements of key figures such as Ariwara no Narihira, a renowned poet and nobleman, and his relationships with various women, including his unrequited love for the high-ranking court lady Fujiwara no Takaiko. Their story is marked by societal constraints, political intrigue, and the tension between duty and desire.

Another prominent arc involves the poet Ono no Komachi, known for her beauty and wit, as she navigates the complexities of love and courtship in the Heian court. Her interactions with suitors, including the earnest Fukakusa no Shōshō, reveal the challenges faced by women in a patriarchal society and the fleeting nature of affection. The series also delves into the lives of other poets, such as Sosei, a Buddhist monk who struggles with his feelings for a woman, and Ki no Tsurayuki, whose poetic prowess is matched by his emotional depth.

The manga balances historical accuracy with imaginative embellishment, offering a glimpse into the cultural and social dynamics of the Heian period. The poets' works are seamlessly integrated into the narrative, providing context for their emotions and relationships. Through its exploration of love in various forms—romantic, unrequited, forbidden, and fleeting—the series captures the timeless essence of human emotion, framed within the elegance and constraints of classical Japanese society.