Liked Natsume Yuujinchou? Then watch Mahoutsukai no Yome (The Ancient Magus' Bride)!

• Episodes: 24
• Aired: Oct. 2017 - Currently Airing

3 Major similarities

1. Similar Protagonists

From the first episode alone, one can immediately see that Natsume and Chise mirror each other. One noticeable thing that they share is that both protagonists can see the supernatural. Having this unusual gift has brought them lots of pain, but also tons of happiness. To better explain that, Chise is also isolated from her family and friends for being a sleigh beggy. However, after being taken in by the ancient magus, she starts to see her uniqueness as a blessing.

But the similarity does not only end there! You can say that Chise is the girl version of Natsume in a different dimension. Like Natsume, Chise is someone who puts others before herself, whether they are humans or unworldly beings. She is also too kind, which makes her easily fooled and teased by those around her. Since she is isolated from human interaction for a long time, she also tends to be awkward during interactions with other people or spirits. But with that being said, Chise also seems to have the courage and intelligence of Natsume.

Lastly, they are protected and guided by powerful beings by their side. Natsume has Madara to save him and is there to teach him the fascinating world of yōkai. On the other hand, Chise has Elias, who is very protective of her. Although that may be, Elias is very willing to educate Chise when it comes to magic; within limits, of course.

2. Purely Magical

Everyone knows how rich the world of Natsume Yuujinchou is. Although almost everything happens in the countryside, it never fails to amaze its fans thanks to its references of Japanese beliefs, culture, and traditions. Of course, you will also have a piece of that in Mahoutsukai no Yome; even more of it, in fact.

Unlike Natsume Yuujinchou, Mahoutsukai no Yome centers around Western folklore and mythology. Here, viewers com across dragons, faeries, pixies, monsters, wizards, magicians, and a whole lot more! The worldbuilding behind the show is wonderful, especially so if you are a fan of the fantasy genre. Every spirit that is shown in the anime is designed wonderfully, and the best part of it is that each of them is at least explained to the viewers as to what they are or what their purpose is. If you loved Natsume Yuujinchou because of its captivating and enchanting setting, there is no doubt that you will also love Mahoutsukai no Yome.

3. Meaningful and thought-provoking

Natsume Yuujinchou managed to pull a lot of people’s heart strings thanks to its relatable story and the wonderful messages that it gives to its viewers. The show definitely inspires a lot of people and it leaves a strong impression. Like Natsume Yuujinchou, Mahoutsukai no Yome also gives some gripping ideas and lessons to its viewers. As Chise learns more about life, relationships, friendships, and love through other people and spirits that she meets, viewers are also able to gain something from the show.

Liked Natsume Yuujinchou? Watch Konohana Kitan

• Episodes: 12
• Aired: Oct. 2017- Currently Airing

Three major similarities shared by Natsume Yuujinchou and Konohana Kitan

1. Slow but soothing

It’s no secret that Natsume Yuujinchou is a slow-paced anime, the same can be said of is Konohana Kitan. Nevertheless, both shows are incredibly soothing to their viewers. Akin to Natsume Yuujinchou, Konohana Kitan has the same calming and relaxing feeling and atmosphere. It uses light and cool visuals as well as soft and gentle music to match the overall serene vibe of the whole show. However, another thing that certainly melts Konohana Kitan viewers’ hearts is the never-ending moe fanservice. Everything about this show is absolutely charming and adorable! It’s more sparkly than Natsume Yuujinchou but the show is very light-hearted and easy to follow.

2. Japanese Folklore

This is the biggest similarity between Natsume Yuujinchou and Konohana Kitan. Both shows rely on Japanese mythology and folklore. Viewers will be able to see different types of yōkai and gods as well. Who knows? you might see a similar yōkai in Konohana Kitan that you might have already seen in Natsume Yuujinchou. It’s also interesting to know various types of yōkai since there are some yōkai in Konohana Kitan that haven’t shown themselves yet in Natsume Yuujinchou. In addition to that, the show can give some glimpses of Japanese culture and beliefs in general. These include their festivals, way of life, and so much more!

3. Always learning something new

Natsume and Yuzu are similar in the sense that they have to learn new things from their new environment. We’re not saying that Natsume isn’t accustomed to being chased by countless yōkai in his everyday life. What we mean is that Natsume is quite new to the experiences and interactions with various people and spirits after meeting Madara. After learning the truth behind the yuujinchou and why he is being constantly chased around by yōkai, Natsume starts to discover a lot of new things that he wasn’t able to understand and experience by himself because he would either run away to escape the yōkai or avoid people so as to not look weird.

Meanwhile, Yuzu is the same. Since she has no prior experience working in any industry, she has to learn a lot to fully grasp what it takes to be an amazing attendant at Konohanatei. By working in that kind of environment, Yuzu gets to meet different customers from various places. She finds very encounter with these customers essential and valuable because they teach her something that could be very helpful to her and her friends.

Of course, it’s not only the protagonists of these two shows that have to discover something new. The people around them also learn something from them as well. Since Natsume and Yuzu are characters who are unique compared to those around them, they have this special and unconventional way of thinking that makes any problem simple and easy to understand.