Small Stature, Huge Heart
The slice of life genre has been out in full force as of late, with the winter season bringing us a whole host of new titles packed to the brim with feels. As such, its easy for certain series to slip under the radar, especially if they’re cast in the shadows of mega-hits such as Laid-Back Camp and A Place Further Than The Universe. Not that we’re saying those anime don’t deserve all the attention they’re getting, but we do feel that there’s another in its genre also in need of similar treatment.
Layered in soft fantasy, Hakumei and Mikochi has proven itself to be a slice of life series whose rich lore, characters and endless reservoir of charm will have you hooked before you know it. In the same vein as Girls’ Last Tour, its otherworldly setting only serving to heighten the relaxing atmosphere of its self-contained narratives.
As such, we’re giving you three reasons why this series is definitively one you should consider checking out!
#3: The Animal Inhabitants
Talking creatures are certainly nothing new, but in the case of this series, they’re so well integrated into the world that they never feel out of place. In some ways it feels akin to the likes of The Wind in the Willows; sentient, civil yet wholly unique individuals just going about their daily lives. With Hakumei and Mikochi serving as the catalyst, we’re introduced to a whole host of intriguing characters such as the ferret Iwashi, who also happens to be a master carpenter, as well as Koharu…who might just be the cutest beetle ever put to animation.
#2: Hakumei and Mikochi’s Relationship
Hakumei is a cheerful and outgoing tomboy whose curious nature often leads the two into multiple misadventures. Mikochi is refined, somewhat introverted and is easily startled when faced with new challenges. Despite numerous differences, these two friends compliment each other immensely. Even the most mundane of days is made all the more enjoyable thanks to the beautiful chemistry these two share. Never let it be said that the duo don’t find a way bring out both the best and the worst in each other.
#1: The Sense of Scale/The Beautiful World-building
Given how every human character is only a few inches tall, the setting in this anime is already magical. Even if you took away the talking creatures, just watching Hakumei and Mikochi wander through a gigantic forest and gathering fruit the size of their whole bodies makes for an investing experience. Of course, the series doesn’t stop there, as there is a whole world beyond the forest, filled with cities, harbours and hillsides that our leads tend to frequent. Each location has its own culture, its own vibe, and thanks to the lush animation you can feel the history in every street corner.
Be sure to check out our video for the Top 5 Anime of Winter 2018 below to see if Hakumei and Mikochi managed to make the cut!
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