The appeal and reviews of "The Young Innkeeper is an Elementary School Student!": A moving story and the depth of the characters

The appeal and reviews of "The Young Innkeeper is an Elementary School Student!"

"Okko's Inn" is a TV anime series based on the novel by Hiroko Reijo, which aired on TV Tokyo from April 8 to September 23, 2018. Although each episode is only 15 minutes long and has 24 episodes, it has a deep story and fascinating characters. The anime tells the story of Okko, an elementary school girl who lost her parents in an accident, and her growth as the young innkeeper at Harunoya, a hot spring inn run by her grandmother.

story

After losing her parents in an accident, Seki Oriko (Okko) is taken in by her grandmother, who runs a hot spring inn called "Harunoya." Though she is confused by her new environment, the appearance of a ghost boy named Uribou marks the beginning of her life as the inn's young innkeeper. At first, Okko lacks confidence in her work at the inn and makes repeated mistakes, but she gradually grows and begins to work hard to please the customers. Through Okko's growth as a young innkeeper and her interactions with the people around her, the story depicts themes of family, friendship and growth.

character

The main character, Okko, is portrayed as living a positive life despite the sadness of losing her parents. Her growth moves the viewer. Uribou is a ghost boy who supports Okko, and his past and his relationship with Okko add depth to the story. Akino Mazuki is Okko's rival, but he is also portrayed as a hardworking and proud character, and his relationship with her is also an important element of the story. Seki Mineko (Grandma) is a strong woman who runs Harunoya and watches over Okko with a warm heart. Miyo and Suzuoni add fantasy elements of ghosts and baby demons, adding color to the story.

Production Staff

The directors were Mitsuyuki Masuhara and Azuma Tani, the series composition was by Michiko Yokote, and the character design was by Akiko Asago. The animation was produced by Madhouse, and the overall production is of high quality, including beautiful backgrounds, color design, and music. In particular, the depiction of the scenery and food at the hot spring inn is a visual treat.

Evaluation and Appeal

"Okko's Inn" skillfully incorporates humor and fantasy elements while depicting universal themes such as family love, friendship, and growth. Okko's coming-of-age story will resonate with a wide range of audiences, from children to adults. Another appealing point is that the beautiful scenery and food can be enjoyed against the backdrop of traditional Japanese culture, a hot spring inn. The characters' personalities and relationships are also appealing, drawing viewers in.

In particular, the presence of ghosts and baby demons such as Uribo, Miyo, and Suzuoni adds a fantasy element to the story, keeping viewers from getting bored. Also, the portrayal of human relationships, such as the rivalry between Okko and Maki, and the family love between Mineko, is deep and moving to viewers. Furthermore, the subtitles and episodes for each episode are well thought out, making the show enjoyable but thought-provoking.

Theme songs and music

The theme songs for episodes 1 to 12 are "To Your Stage" by Mizutani Kaho, and for episodes 13 to 23, "NEW DAY" by Fujiwara Sakura. Both songs have lyrics and melodies that symbolize the theme of the story and Okko's growth, and resonate with viewers. In particular, Fujiwara Sakura's "NEW DAY" is a song that she wrote and composed herself, making it a perfect fit for the development of the latter half of the story.

Recommended points

"Okko's Inn" is a well-balanced work that incorporates humor and fantasy elements while telling a touching story about themes such as family love, friendship, and growth. In particular, the story of Okko's growth, the beautiful scenery of the hot spring inn, and the depiction of the food are visually enjoyable elements. The characters' personalities and relationships are also appealing, and have the power to draw viewers in.

This anime can be enjoyed by a wide range of people, from children to adults, and is recommended for watching with the whole family. In particular, it is a must-watch for those who are interested in the culture of hot spring inns and traditional Japanese scenery. It is also recommended for those who want to enjoy a story of growth and depictions of human relationships.

More Information

■ Public Media

TV anime series

■ Original Media

novel

■ Broadcast period

April 8, 2018 - September 23, 2018
7:14～

■Broadcasting station

TV Tokyo

■Frequencies

15 min

■ Number of Episodes

Episode 24

■Original Story

Hiroko Reijou, Asami (illustration)

■ Director

Mitsuyuki Masuhara, Higashi Tani

■ Production

・Animation Production: Madhouse

■Works

© Hiroko Reijou, Asami, Kodansha/The Young Innkeeper is an Elementary School Student! Production Committee