Natsume’s Book of Friends centers on Takashi Natsume, a young boy gifted with the ability to see spirits. He inherits a remarkable book from his grandmother, filled with the names of spirits she had previously bound to her will. Audiences are drawn to its uplifting narratives that delve into friendship, empathy, and the universal quest for belonging amidst differences.
If you found joy in the themes of Natsume’s Book of Friends, then you’re likely to appreciate these 10 anime that weave supernatural elements into their exploration of relationships and self-discovery. These series showcase unexpected bonds, fleeting connections, and supernatural adventures.
Top 10 Anime for Fans of Natsume’s Book of Friends
1) Mushishi
Mushishi follows Ginko, a “mushishi,”who investigates ethereal beings known as mushi, struggling with their invisible influence on humans. This episodic series allows Ginko to connect with people affected by these mysterious entities, exploring profound themes of existence and life’s intricacies—similar to the essence found in Natsume’s Book of Friends.
2) Hotarubi no Mori e
This poignant film encapsulates the bittersweet relationship between Hotaru, a human girl, and Gin, a spirit who must remain untouched by humans. Through its subtle portrayal of supernatural bonds, the movie resonates with the idea of forging connections in the face of insurmountable barriers—mirroring themes present in Natsume’s Book of Friends.
3) Barakamon
Barakamon tells the story of Seishuu Handa, a calligrapher who retreats to a rural village after an altercation. Expecting solitude, he unexpectedly finds camaraderie with the locals, especially spirited Naru. Much like Natsume, both characters undergo personal transformations through newfound friendships.
4) Kakuriyo: Bed & Breakfast for Spirits
In Kakuriyo, college student Aoi unexpectedly enters a realm where she must repay her grandfather’s debt by working in an inn for ayakashi. As she bonds with both spirits and her own human experiences, the series reflects themes of companionship and perseverance, akin to Natsume’s Book of Friends.
5) The Morose Mononokean
The Morose Mononokean features Ashiya, a student plagued by a yokai, who seeks help from exorcist Abeno. Through their journey of helping wandering spirits find peace, the show weaves in light-hearted moments and growth, reminiscent of Natsume’s commitment to aiding the supernatural.
6) Somali and the Forest Spirit
In Somali and the Forest Spirit, a golem adopts an abandoned human girl, Somali, providing a rich narrative of guardianship and exploration in a world dominated by beasts. Their journey reflects on existential questions, similar to the inquiries found in Natsume’s Book of Friends.
7) Hakkenden: Eight Dogs of the East
Hakkenden follows eight reincarnated warriors bound by magical gems in their fight against supernatural threats. Their shared destiny fosters camaraderie, and the storyline emphasizes friendship through challenging encounters, echoing themes prominent in Natsume’s Book of Friends.
8) Spirited Away
Spirited Away captures the adventure of Chihiro, who finds work in a bathhouse for spirits to save her parents. With themes of courage and personal growth through adversity, it resonates closely with Natsume’s journey of understanding self-worth while supporting spirits.
9) Violet Evergarden
Violet Evergarden follows a former soldier transitioning to a new life while learning empathy through her work in transcribing letters. Its exploration of emotional healing and personal growth finds a parallel with Natsume’s own transformative experiences as he learns to connect with spirits and people alike.
10) Kamichu!
Kamichu! is a lighthearted tale about Yurie, a middle school girl who unexpectedly becomes a Shinto kami. As she navigates her new divine responsibilities while dealing with ordinary adolescent issues, the series embodies themes of self-discovery and growth, paralleling Natsume’s journey with spirits in a humorous context.
In Conclusion
Through its touching narratives and rich character development, Natsume’s Book of Friends resonates with numerous viewers, making it a beloved series. The recommended anime provides a tapestry of fantasy intertwined with profound human experiences, showcasing the beauty of connections and fleeting moments.
Whether you seek enchanting comedies or deeply emotional dramas, these series offer captivating storylines that evoke that distinct sense of bittersweet beauty found in Natsume’s Book of Friends.