Living Japanese Style

Beautiful Japanese anime for a relaxing evening

Escape the stresses of daily life and find peace and relaxation with these breathtakingly beautiful Japanese anime series and films.

1. Mushi-shi (available on Crunchyroll)

Mushishi is an anime series that is set in a fictional world that looks like 19th century Japan. It follows the story of Ginko, a “mushishi” or a specialist in a type of supernatural entity called “mushi.” Ginko travels the countryside , encountering various people who are affected by mushi and using his knowledge and abilities to help them. The animation has a meditative, contemplative tone and is deeply relaxing.

2. Descending Stories: Showa Genroku Rakugo Shinju (available on Crunchyroll)

The anime series Showa Genroku Rakugo Shinju tells the story of Yotaro and Konatsu, who are drawn into the world of rakugo, a traditional form of Japanese storytelling. Yotaro becomes the apprentice of a famous rakugo performer named Yakumo, while Konatsu is the daughter of a deceased rakugo artist and yearns to follow in her father’s footsteps. The series follows the relationships and rivalries between the characters as they navigate the world of rakugo and deal with their personal struggles. The anime series has received critical acclaim for its storytelling, character development, and historical accuracy. The story unfolds across decades in the Showa era, spanning from the 1930s to the 1990s.

3. The Heike Story (available on Crunchyroll)

The Heike Story, also known as “The Tale of the Heike,” is a Japanese historical epic that has been adapted into an anime series. The story is set in the late 12th century and follows a young girl named Biwa, living through the struggles of the Heike clan and the Genji clan for control of Japan. This anime series is known for its complex characters and political intrigue, as well as the cultural and social changes that took place during this period in Japanese history.

4. Garden of Words (available on Netflix)

“Garden of Words” is a visually stunning film directed by Makoto Shinkai. The film depicts Takao, a young student who aspires to be a shoemaker, and Yukino, an office worker. One day, Takao skips school and ends up at a park, where he meets Yukino, who is avoiding work. As the two meet on rainy days in Shinjuku Gyoen park, they slowly an open up about their lives and awkwardly start to form a connection. The complex and nuanced relationship between the two main characters is a highlight of the film. Overall, “Garden of Words” is a beautifully crafted and emotionally resonant film that is well worth watching.

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