The appeal and evaluation of "Fushigi Yuugi": Reevaluating the good old 90s anime

The appeal and evaluation of "Fushigi Yuugi": A monumental work of girls' manga

Fushigi Yuugi is a TV anime series that aired on TV Tokyo from 1995 to 1996 and is based on a shojo manga by Yuu Watase. The original manga was serialized in Shogakukan's Shojo Comic and its popularity led to it being made into an anime. Directed by Kamegaki Hajime and produced by Studio Pierrot, TV Tokyo, and Yomiuri Advertising, it captivated audiences as a 52-episode long series.

Story and worldview

The story of Fushigi Yugi begins when Hayama Miaka, a high school student living in modern-day Japan, reads an ancient Chinese book, The Book of Heaven and Earth. Miaka is drawn into the book and transported to another world, Gensokyo. There, she is chosen as the Priestess of Suzaku and embarks on an adventure to save the country alongside seven warriors. The story unfolds as Miaka grows, develops her bonds with the warriors around her, and depicts her love life.

The world of Gensokyo is based on Chinese myths and legends, with the Four Gods (Suzaku, Seiryu, Byakko, and Genbu) playing an important role. The characters Miaka meets are all unique and important, supporting her adventure. In particular, Miaka's relationship with the warriors is a central theme of the story, deeply moving the viewer.

Characters and cast

The main character, Miaka Hayama, is played by voice actress Megumi Hayashibara. Miaka has a pure and kind personality, but also has the strength to face difficulties. Her growth and change are portrayed realistically through Megumi Hayashibara's acting.

The warriors who support Miaka are also fascinating characters. In particular, the love triangle between Touma (voice: Midorikawa Hikaru), a warrior who has a crush on Miaka, and Onijuku (voice: Seki Toshihiko), Miaka's childhood friend, captivates the hearts of viewers. The other warriors also have their own backgrounds and worries, and their stories are also deeply depicted.

Animation and Music

The animation of "Fushigi Yuugi" was realized by the high technical skills of Studio Pierrot. The character designs were done by Hideyuki Motohashi, and while faithfully recreating the image of the original work, he also brought out the unique charm of anime. In particular, the depictions of battle scenes and fantastical scenes are superb, and the visual beauty is outstanding.

The music is by Yusuke Honma, and from the background music to the theme song, it plays an important role in enhancing the atmosphere of the story. The opening theme "Dream-Colored Spirit" is sung by Maaya Sakamoto, and the lyrics and melody are memorable, symbolizing Miaka's adventure and growth. The ending theme "Hitomi no Naka no Uchuu" is also a beautiful song that enhances the moving story.

Evaluation and impact

"Fushigi Yuugi" was highly praised as an anime adaptation of a girls' manga. In particular, the story of Miaka's growth, love life, and her bond with the warriors moved many viewers. In addition, the world view based on Chinese myths and legends is also appealing, and the work is highly regarded as a well-made fantasy piece.

This work was popular with a wide range of people, going beyond the boundaries of girls' manga, and had a major influence on later fantasy works for girls. In particular, the storytelling of the protagonist being transported to another world and growing up there became common in later works. In addition, the relationships and love affairs between Miaka and the warriors resonated deeply with viewers, and created many fans.

Subtitles and episodes

"Fushigi Yuugi" is a long series consisting of 52 episodes, each with a different theme and plot. The main episodes are introduced below.

• Episode 1 "The Legendary Girl" (04/06/1995): The story begins with Hayama Miaka reading the "Book of the Four Gods". Miaka is sucked into the book and transported to Gensokyo.
• Episode 2, "The Priestess of Suzaku" (1995/04/13): Miaka is chosen as the "Priestess of Suzaku" and begins her adventure to save the country with seven warriors.
• Episode 11 "The Blue Dragon Priestess" (1995/06/15): Miaka's friend, Karasuha, is chosen as the "Blue Dragon Priestess," and her story unfolds.
• Episode 25: "Loved, Sad..." (1995/09/21): Miaka and Touma's relationship deepens, and her inner conflict is depicted.
• Episode 52 "For the One I Love" (03/28/1996): In the final episode, Miaka's bonds with the warriors are put to the test, showing her growth and determination.

Recommendations and related works

"Fushigi Yuugi" is a must-see for those who like shojo manga and fantasy works. It is especially recommended for those who want to enjoy the protagonist's growth, love affairs, and adventures in another world. It is also enjoyable for those who are interested in Chinese myths and legends.

Related works include "Fushigi Yugi: Genbu Kaiden" and "Fushigi Yugi: Byakko Senki," both of which are also written by Yu Yu Watase. These works also delve deeper into the world of "Fushigi Yugi," and are definitely worth checking out for fans. Also, as fantasy works based on shojo manga, "Sailor Moon" and "Cardcaptor Sakura" are also recommended. These works will also be enjoyed by fans of "Fushigi Yugi," as they depict the protagonist's growth, love life, and adventures in other worlds.

Conclusion

"Fushigi Yuugi" is a work that can be said to be a monumental work of girls' manga, and its story, characters, and world view have touched many viewers. The story of Miaka's growth, love life, and her bond with the warriors resonated deeply with viewers and had a major influence on later fantasy works for girls. Please watch this work and feel its charm.