Recommendations for Slice-of-Life Anime | Heartwarming! Funny! Absurd!

Mr. Osomatsu

TV anime Osomatsu-san Season 3 – Teaser/Announcement Video

The sequel anime Mr.

Osomatsu, based on the great work Osomatsu-kun by Fujio Akatsuka, debuted its first season in 2015 and sparked a major boom.

There have been three installments to date, but the excitement around the first season was especially huge, leading to a surge in female fans known as “fujoshi.” The real charm of Mr.

Osomatsu lies, above all, in the uniquely colorful members of the Matsuno family.

I think the best way to enjoy this anime is to find the character who’s your personal favorite.

K-On!

K-On! The Movie

K-On!, a work that rose from Kakifly’s four-panel comic to a beloved nationwide anime.

For many millennials, this series may be etched into a page of their youth from their junior high or high school days.

The biggest charm of K-On! is, without a doubt, its adorable characters! The uniquely anime-style, lightly deformed and laid-back personalities offer endless comfort.

Packed with plenty of “light music club” moments that ring true, it’s a must-check for students!

Chibi Maruko-chan

Chibi Maruko-chan: The Boy from Italy

One of Ms.

Momoko Sakura’s signature works is Chibi Maruko-chan.

The anime began in 1990 and is still on the air today.

It’s a classic of the slice-of-life genre.

A typical pattern in Chibi Maruko-chan is that Maruko gets carried away and ends up getting her comeuppance.

Adults can usually tell she’s headed for failure, but for children it has strong educational value.

If you have a family, why not watch it together at home?

Bonobono

Anime “Bonobono” PV2

Depending on the generation, many people probably think of Bonobono first when they hear “slice of life.” It’s still popular today, and the reason is that it’s more than just a slice-of-life anime.

Like the original four-panel manga, it’s rich in philosophical content that leaves you thinking after you finish watching.

Another hallmark of the series—its absurd scenes—also captures the real world brilliantly.

You could call it a mature work with a certain kind of realism.

Crayon Shin-chan

[In theaters Friday, April 22!] Crayon Shin-chan the Movie: Mononoke Ninja Chinfūden – Trailer

Crayon Shin-chan is a series loved by many generations, from children to adults.

It’s so famous that many people may not even think of it as a slice-of-life anime.

When it comes to the charms of Crayon Shin-chan, the movies are a standout.

While the regular series is largely comedic, the films are crafted to be deeply moving—enough to make even adults cry.

They’re great for the whole family to enjoy, so be sure to check them out.

Hozuki's Coolheadedness

Hozuki's Coolheadedness Season 1 | Episode 1 | Special Release

Hozuki’s Coolheadedness, an anime that aired in 2014, is set in the Buddhist underworld.

It depicts the everyday life of the demon god Hozuki, a highly capable deputy who is constantly busy with his duties in hell.

The characters are undeniably charming, and the worldbuilding—vividly portraying the Buddhist concept of hell—is truly impressive.

With a well-balanced mix of comedy and serious moments, it’s also recommended for those seeking a more stimulating slice-of-life anime.

Be sure to check it out!

Atashin'chi

"Bear Lab's Christmas" Episode 34 | Shin Atashinchi | [ENG sub]

Eiko Kera’s classic Atashin’chi.

The manga began in 1994, but it really became famous with the anime that started in 2002, didn’t it? The charm of Atashin’chi lies in the warm interactions within the Tachibana family.

It’s a work where the stereotypically nagging mother is the main character, but she’s not simply raging all the time.

Even in her scolding, you can see her love for her family—that’s arguably Atashin’chi’s greatest appeal.