The much-anticipated premiere of Maebashi Witches aired on Sunday, April 6, 2025, as part of the Spring 2025 anime lineup. This original series, produced by the acclaimed Studio Sunrise, was first announced in September 2024 and has drawn significant excitement leading up to its inaugural episode.
Episode 1 introduces viewers to the central characters around whom the narrative will revolve. Among these protagonists is Yuina, along with her companions, each chosen by the whimsical talking frog Keroppe for their unique traits that contribute to the group’s dynamics. The episode centers on the pre-opening of their Magical Flower Shop and features their very first client, Eiko Zen.
Key Highlights from Episode 1
Titled “What’s Wrong With The Status Quo?” , this premiere episode kicks off with an amusing scene of two girls playfully tussling amid a backdrop of their friends. As the narrative unfolds, we meet Yuina Akagi—a cheerful girl with pink hair—who is eagerly racing home to unveil her new dress, adding to the vibrant and whimsical atmosphere of the show.
Once home, Yuina greets her mother and eagerly unboxes her dress. As she tries it on, an unexpected voice emanates from an orange frog, prompting Yuina’s response rather than surprise. The frog presents her with the opportunity to become a witch, and with her acceptance, a radiant light transforms her cupboard into a portal to another realm.
The duo then enters an enchanting world featuring four colorful doors. As three of these doors swing open, each reveals a unique individual—Mai, Kyoko, and Choco—who have also been selected by Keroppe to become witches. With Mai’s explanation, viewers learn that each girl’s wish grants them points; accumulating 99,999 points is pivotal to their transformation into full-fledged witches. However, their magical powers are confined to the shop until they reach that milestone.
Curious about the frog’s name, Yuina suggests calling it Keroppe. Following this lighthearted moment, Azu makes her entrance, initially wary of Yuina. With the final addition to their group, the scene is set for the shop’s pre-opening to commence, leading to the arrival of Eiko Zen—a high school girl grappling with uncertainty about her future.
As Eiko strolls down a dimly lit alleyway, she discovers the Witches’ flower shop, which is illuminated by a vibrant neon sign. Yuina’s enthusiastic greeting in an effort to assist Eiko with her dilemma catches Keroppe’s attention. He explains that in order to grant Eiko’s wish, they must help the flowers of her heart bloom. However, a playful scuffle breaks out when Azu urges Yuina not to act like the stereotypical main character.
In a moment of reflection facilitated by Keroppe, who pauses time, the girls reassess their approach before rewinding to Eiko’s initial arrival. With a newfound clarity, the group performs a heartfelt song, enabling Eiko to discover the answers she has been seeking. By the episode’s conclusion, the Maebashi Witches solidify their bond, standing united and eager to fulfill wishes together.