While the action can be a spectacle and the drama can be intriguing, sometimes the The best animes are relaxed slice-of-life series. Slice-of-life is an absolutely fundamental genre in anime, as it can show the small intricacies of everyday life that are affirmed. Sometimes, after a hard day, nothing compares to relaxing with a great anime about life.
While slice-of-life is a genre of its own, it's certainly diverse. Slice of Life anime can be about school life, city life, rural life and can even have a slightly mystical touch. More than simple, all of these series can almost be healing as their more peaceful nature shines through. The best laidback slice-of-life anime are peaceful enough to make fans forget about the world and your problems for a while, and sometimes that's exactly what's needed.
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Gakuen nannies
Brain's Base anime series, based on the manga by Hari Tokeino
Gakuen nannies is as moving as it gets, effortlessly providing emotional depth. The anime is filled with touching moments, humor, and lovable child characters, highlighting the joys and challenges of caring for others. Gakuen nannies stands out for its soft tone, focusing on themes of family, love and personal development, making it a wonderful choice for those who enjoy uplifting and light-hearted narratives.
Gakuen nannies revolves around Ryuuichi and his younger brother, Kotarou, who are welcomed by a strict president after the death of their parents. In return, Ryuuichi helps run the school's daycare center, looking after the charming children.
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Anohana: the flower we saw that day
Original anime series from A-1 Pictures
Anohana: the flower we saw that day is a 2011 anime series from A-1 Pictures about a former group of friends divided by the death of a young girl named Menma. Deeply affected by his friend's passing, group leader Jinta has become a recluse who is unsure of where to go with his life. This all changes when Menma's ghost appears to not only bring Jinta out of his shell, but also unite his former group of friends.
This all might seem like a lot for a series that's supposed to be light-hearted, and while it occasionally can be, Anohana the focus is much more on healing through the lingering effects of the tragedy. This cure does Anohana an incredibly relaxing watch, even as the series delves into deeper topics. Anohana is one of the best anime series of all time, so it's no wonder it's also among the best lifetime series.
33
Fruits Basket (2019)
Anime series from TMS Entertainment, based on the manga by Natsuki Takaya
THE Fruit basket The manga is one of the most beloved Shojo romance series of all time, and its 2019 adaptation more than lives up to that pedigree. The series follows a girl named Tohru whose world is turned upside down after her mother's death. After living in a tent in a forest near her school, Tohru ends up being taken in by the eccentric Sohma family. Although the Sohmas have many problems, the biggest one is that they are all cursed to transform into a Chinese Zodiac animal whenever they experience extreme emotions.
Although conflict between characters is naturally at the heart of the series Fruit basket the pastoral setting and adorable cast still make for quite a relaxing watch. Any Shojo fan must watch Fruit basketmaking it a perfect slice-of-life series.
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Tanaka-kun is always apathetic
Silver Link anime, based on the manga by Nozomi Uda
Tanaka-kun is always apathetic captures the essence of relaxation and works like a comfort anime, with the protagonist's attitude encouraging the viewer to relax alongside him. The series offers a calming and joyful journey, highlighting relatable themes about finding joy in simple moments and friendships. Its light-hearted vibe, combined with endearing characters and a laid-back sense of humor, makes it a slice-of-life anime perfect for those looking for a relaxing and uplifting viewing experience.
The narrative centers on Tanaka, a high school student who is constantly tired and unmotivated, often sliding through life with little initiative. His closest friend, Ohta, takes on the responsibility of looking after Tanaka, ensuring he stays healthy and helping him avoid difficulties.
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Polar Bear Café
Anime by Studio Pierrot, based on the manga by Aloha Higa
Polar Bear Café is exactly what the title says, a series about a polar bear who runs a cafe frequented by animals and humans. Two of the cafe's regular customers are a well-meaning but not very bright panda who likes to order bamboo, and a penguin who is friends with the Polar Bear.
What immediately stands out about the series are the striking designs of its three main animals. In contrast to much more anime character designs for human characters, the realistic designs of the three main animals always make them look hilariously out of place in the anime. There is something inherently comical about the polar bear, with its lifelike polar bear proportions, wearing its apron and serving coffee. All this means that Polar Bear Café is a consistently hilarious, low-stakes show that's always easy to watch.
30
Hyouka
Anime series from Kyoto Animation, based on the Classic Literature Club series by writer Honobu Yonezawa
One of Kyoto Animation's best anime series Hyouka is a slice-of-life mystery series centered on a young man named Houtarou. Houtarou lives by the philosophy of energy conservatism, the idea of drifting through life with as little effort as possible in all tasks. Unfortunately for Houtarou, his life changed after he was forced to join the school's literature club and was repeatedly asked to solve the problems of Chitanda, also a member of the club. This eventually catches up with the entire literature club investigating the mystery of Chitanda's uncle who has gone missing.
Mystery and slice of life may not seem like they go together, but Hyouka It's an absolutely cozy series that's easy to get lost in.. The characters are all incredibly well developed, making the cast easy to care about. General, Hyouka is one of the few mystery anime that will leave fans less tense after watching one episode.
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Silver Spoon
Anime series from A-1 Pictures; Based on the manga by Hiromu Arakawa
Silver Spoon
Silver Spoon is a Russian crime drama series that follows Igor Sokolovsky, a rich and spoiled young man who is forced to work as a police officer after a run-in with the law. Based in modern-day Moscow, Igor navigates the complexities of his new role, encountering numerous challenges and personal growth while uncovering deeper issues within his family.
- Cast
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Ryōhei Kimura, Marie Miyake, Ayahi Takagaki, Tôru Sakurai, Nobunaga Shimazaki, Masayuki Shoji, Shiori Izawa, Nobuyuki Kobushi, Kengo Takanashi, Yoshihisa Kawahara, Yuki Ono, Yasunori Masutani
- Release date
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July 13, 2013
- Character(s)
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Yuugo Hachiken, Aki Mikage, Tamako Inada, Ichirou Komaba, Shinnosuke Aikawa, Keiji Tokiwa, Mayumi Yoshino, Tarou Beppu, Hajime Nishikawa, Mr.
Images A-1' Silver Spoon centers on Yuugo Hachiken, a young scholar who enrolls in an agricultural school after failing to be accepted into the school of his choice. Although Hachiken enters his new school expecting an easy workload, he ends up having to work even harder than he thought, and he and his friends are richer for the experience.
Silver Spoon was created by Hiromu Arakawa of Fullmetal Alchemist Fame and the move into slice-of-life haven't diminished her abilities as a writer. Away from the action and intrigue of Fullmetal AlchemistArakawa withdrew from his own background, growing up on a farm for Silver Spoonthus giving it a definitive air of authenticity, and just as Fullmetal Alchemist, Silver Spoon has Hiromu Arakwa's keen eye for writing characters to create a cast that is nothing but endlessly entertaining.
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Blue Period
Seven Arcs anime series, based on the manga by Tsubasa Yamaguchi
Very few anime and manga are as motivational as Blue Period, and this series is sure to reignite the fire within the viewer despite being relatively unremarkable. It focuses on a boy who ventures into a completely new world and works hard to become great at it. Forming new friendships and rivalries, and creating new great memories, Blue Period shows the beauty and struggles of school life in an expert way.
The narrative revolves around Yatora Yaguchi, a diligent high school student who, despite excelling academically, experiences a feeling of emptiness. His encounter with painting awakens an intense and unexpected enthusiasm for art, motivating him to aspire to a future at the renowned Tokyo University of the Arts, despite lacking previous experience and facing social pressures.
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Natsume's Book of Friends
Shuka anime series; Based on the manga by Yuki Midorikawa
ShukaNatsume's Book of Friends is about the titular Natsume, a young man who can talk to spirits called yokai. After her grandmother's death, Natsume receives an incredibly valuable book containing the names of over one hundred yokai who were previously in Natsume's grandmother's service. Natsume's mission is to nullify the contracts of each spirit in the book so that they can move on to the afterlife.
While it features more than a few evil yokai that require a bit more effort to face, Natsume's Book of Friends It is very calming with a focus on nature and healingand ends up being a relaxing series to watch more often. As strange as it may seem, an anime about ghosts and spirits can still be one of the most relaxed animes ever.
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Komi can't communicate
Anime series from OLM, Inc.; Based on the manga by Tomohito Oda
OLM, Inc. Komi can't communicate centers on a girl named Komi who becomes popular in high school due to her seemingly stoic beauty. Despite the attention he receives, Komi's apparent stoicism is actually due to his difficulties communicating with other people. Together with an average-looking boy named Hitohito Tadano, Komi aims to break out of her shell of anxiety and make 100 friends.
What it does Komi can't communicate so great is the ease with which he balances his different tones. Komi can't communicate always knows how to complement his comedic moments with more serious, character-driven momentsSo Komi's growth and management of her social anxiety never feels too heavy-handed or too much like a joke. It ends up being one of the best explorations of social anxiety because of this, and with the great character interactions that surround it, it's a great series that portrays life from start to finish.
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Nichijou
Anime series from Kyoto Animation; Based on the manga by Keiichi Arawi
More about Life's Silly End, Kyoto Animation's Nichijou is a hilarious series where the stakes are small and the jokes are big. This slice-of-life classic follows a group of girls as they navigate life in a small town, with the pranks they and other townspeople get up to, often delving into the surreal in terms of the concept and how they react to them.
What it does Nichijou just as notable is how well he uses animation to tell his jokes. Instead of relying solely on dialogue or funny situations, Nichijou really makes the most of being an anime, including lots of visual jokes and exaggerated animation who sell the comedy to an incredible degree and make every joke an absolute riot. Ultimately, when looking for slice-of-life comedies, anime fans really can't go wrong Nichijou.
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Do it yourself!!
Studio Pine Jam anime series; Directed by Kazuhiro Yoneda
Pine Jam's Studio Do it yourself!! is set in near-future Japan and follows Serufu Yua, an awkward teenager who never thought much about anything before stumbling upon her school's DIY club. Impressed by the concept, Serufu becomes the only member of the club besides the club president, Rei, so she must help attract new members to save the club while teaching herself the ins and outs of DIY.
Do it yourself!! has a distinctive, striking visual style and a cast of memorable characters. The show highlights the emerging relationships the club members form, as well as Serufu's dynamics with old and new friends. The educational element of Do it yourself!! It also has its charm for always making such a mundane concept seem interesting.and overall, it always manages to perfectly combine warmth and humor in each episode.
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Kiyo in Kyoto
Anime series by JC Staff; Based on the manga by Aiko Koyama
Kiyo in Kyoto: From the Maiko House is an anime series centered on Kiyo, a young girl who supports her childhood friend Sumire's aspiration to become a maiko, or geisha apprentice, in Kyoto. While Sumire trains rigorously, Kiyo finds her own calling as a cook in the maiko house, nurturing the residents with her culinary skills. The series offers a gentle exploration of friendship, dedication, and everyday life in the geisha community.
- Cast
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Kana Hanazawa, Mao Ichimichi, Minami Takayama, Satsumi Matsuda, Kaoru Katakai, Rikiya Koyama, Sayaka Ohara, Hannah Grace
- Release date
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February 24, 2021
- Seasons
-
1
JC Team Kiyo in Kyoto: From Casa Maiko stars Kiyo and Sumire, two friends who moved to Kyoto before the start of the show to become maikoor intern geisha. Things didn't go exactly as planned for the duo, as while Sumire thrived in training, Kiyo struggled and ended up being released. All was not lost for Kiyo, as she quickly proved herself in another way, becoming the maiko the new cook in the house.
Kiyo in Kyoto sees the two friends flourish in their roles and provides insight into the maiko Japanese lifestyle and cuisine. Both fields are areas that Western viewers are certainly not familiar with, especially maikothen Kiyo in Kyoto: From Casa Maiko serves as a great educational experience into Japanese cultureand for anyone interested in it, it should not be left aside.
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Deaimon
Anime series from Encourage Films; Based on the manga by Rin Asano
- Cast
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Nobunaga Shimazaki, Kozue Yuuki, Sayaka Ohara, Rikiya Koyama, Hiroshi Iwasaki, Takuma Nagatsuka, Minori Suzuki, Minami Takahashi[
- Release Date
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April 6, 2022
- Seasons
-
1
Deaimon sees the main character Nagomu Irino return home to his family’s traditional sweet shop after years away, only to find that in his absence a young girl, Itsuka, has been taken in by his family and is expected to inherit the shop in his stead. What follows is a competition, with both Nagomu and Itsuka trying to prove that they are capable of running the store, and the pair develop a charming sibling-like bond along the way.
In addition to its great character writing and animation, Deaimon excellently shows the skill that goes into making wagashi, traditional Japanese confectioneries, and also does a great job of showing how making new and unlikely connections can help people to evolve. All in all, it’s an anime that’s great for slice-of-life fans and one that should not be passed up.
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Super Cub
Anime series by Studio Kai; Based on the light novel by Tone Koken
When Studio Kai’s Super Cub begins, its protagonist, Koguma, is very lonely. She has no family, no friends, no real hobbies, and lives a quiet and isolated life. This all changes when Koguma buys herself a motorbike, the titular Honda Super Cub, which leads her to meet two other girls at her school who also ride motorbikes and gradually learning to open up.
Super Cub is a quiet anime that shows what a big impact a beloved hobby can have on a person’s life, and Koguma’s gradual progression over the course of the series is heartwarming to watch unfold. The series also details the care that goes into maintaining a motorbike down to the smallest detail, so even people who don’t care much about that can still walk away feeling more knowledgeable about something so unique.
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A Place Further Than The Universe
Anime series by Studio Madhouse; Directed by Atsuko Ishizuka
Studio Madhouse’s A Place Further than the Universe stars Mari Tamaki, a young girl who always seeks to live her life to the fullest by going on an adventure. One day, Mari gets her wish when she has a chance to join in on an expedition to Antarctica, and it ends up being a much bigger adventure than she could have ever dreamed of.
Despite the harsh climate that Mari and her friends find themselves in, A Place Further than the Universe is a relentlessly positive series that wears its heart on its sleeve. The great art and animation that are common with Studio Madhouse are on full display, and more than that, there’s just something so genuine and comfortable about the relationship between Mari, Shirase, Hinata, and Yuzuki that makes this series an instant classic slice-of-life anime.
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A Silent Voice
Anime series by Kyoto Animation & Based on the manga by Ooima Yoshitoki
A Silent Voice
A Silent Voice is a Japanese animated film directed by Naoko Yamada. It follows Shoya Ishida, a former bully who seeks redemption by reconnecting with Shoko Nishimiya, a deaf girl he once tormented. The film explores themes of bullying, empathy, and forgiveness, offering a poignant look at the complexities of human relationships and the impact of one’s actions on others.
- Release Date
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September 17, 2016
One of the most popular and best anime movies of all time, A Silent Voice might not be the first thing one thinks of when they hear “slice of life”, but it fits the bill perfectly. The story stands out for its honest portrayal of difficult themes such as bullying, mental health, and social alienation. Shoya’s journey to redeem himself is layered and emotional, showing the lasting effects of cruelty on both the victim and the perpetrator. What makes this story even more beautiful is the masterful adaptation that makes every second aesthetically pleasing.
The movie follows the depressed boy, Shoya, who is about to commit suicide because of the guilt from his days as a bully. Fortunately, he survives, and one day meets Shoko, the deaf girl he relentlessly bullied in elementary school. The two reconnect and Shoya does his best to atone for his sins, but this doesn’t come easy, and he has to work for it.
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Flying Witch
Anime series by J.C. Staff; Based on the manga by Chihiro Ishizuka
Flying Witch
Flying Witch (2016) is a Japanese anime series following the life of Makoto Kowata, a young witch who moves to the countryside to live with her cousins while training to become a fully-fledged witch. The series blends elements of magic with the everyday joys and challenges of rural life, offering a serene and whimsical narrative focused on character development and subtle, heartfelt moments.
- Cast
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Minami Shinoda
, Eri Suzuki
, Shinsuke Sugawara
, Adam Gibbs
, Stephanie Wittels
, Juliet Simmons
, Kana Aoi
, Kikuko Inoue - Release Date
-
April 9, 2016
- Seasons
-
1
J.C. Staff’s Flying Witch is an iyashikei anime, an anime focused primarily on people living out peaceful lives, that follows Makoto Kowata, a young witch who moves to live with her relatives in the Aomori prefecture as part of her training, all the while teaching friends and family alike about the various oddities of the magical world.
A perfect choice for fans of Kiki’s Delivery Service, Flying Witch showcases the small quirks of Makoto’s witchcraft and how it evolves as she spends time with her family and friends, all while striking a perfect balance between comedic and heartwarming moments. Focusing on life’s small pleasures among the beautiful scenery, Flying Witch perfectly embodies the core tenants of the iyashikei genre of anime, and as such, every episode of Flying Witch is full of comfort from start to finish and great to watch.
17
Restaurant To Another World
Anime series by OLM, Inc.; Based on the light novel by Junpei Inuzuka
Restaurant to Another World is a Japanese anime series that centers on a Western-style restaurant called “Yōshoku no Nekoya,” which opens its doors once a week to fantastical creatures from a parallel world. Patrons range from dragons to elves, each coming to savor the unique culinary creations offered by the establishment. The series explores themes of hospitality, culture, and the universal love for food through episodic storytelling.
- Cast
-
Christopher Sabat
, Jill Harris
, Charles C. Campbell
, Monica Rial
, Caitlin Glass
, Tyson Rinehart
, Jeremy Inman
, John Swasey - Release Date
-
July 3, 2017
- Seasons
-
2
In OLM, Inc.’s Restaurant to Another World, Nekoya is, on the surface, a normal restaurant that specializes in Japanese and Western fusion cuisine, but that changes on Saturdays. On Saturdays, Nekoya is connected to a fantasy world, and in addition to being customers, the strange inhabitants of the world frequently use it as a place of business and general merriment.
One of the best food-related anime to be released in recent years, Restaurant to Another World is a slice-of-life anime that truly stands out from its contemporaries. While this series does make use of many fantasy and isekai genre traditions, Restaurant to Another World‘s ultimate focus is on the personal stories of the restaurant’s staff and customers, rather than their heroic exploits. With its mouthwatering dishes and sense of escapism, Restaurant To Another World is a fantastic blend of genres.
16
Spy x Family
Anime series by Wit Studio & CloverWorks, Based on the Manga By Tatsuya Endo
Few anime have taken the world be storm in recent memory like Spy x Family has. The series follows a spy named Twilight who is sent on a mission to keep an eye on the leader of a prominent political party. To help, Twilight creates the fake identity of Loid Forger and adopts a young girl named Anya, who unbeknownst to him, is psychic. Completing the family is Loid’s fake wife, Yor, who is actually an assassin working for Loid’s enemies.
Despite the promises of high-octane spy action, Spy x Family is mostly a lighthearted comedy series that uses its fun premise in funny and creative ways that are never draining on the viewer. Though all the characters are great, Anya and her many meme-worthy faces are the series’ true highlight. With its fun characters and its great animation, fans can trust that Spy x Family is one of the best slice-of-life anime.