Holmes of Sanjo, Teramachi, Kyoto: A review that explores the charm of mystery solving and youth

Holmes of Sanjo, Teramachi, Kyoto - A fascinating world of antiques and solving mysteries

Kura is an antique shop quietly located in the Teramachi Sanjo shopping district of Kyoto. The anime "Kura: The Secret Life of Kyoto", which depicts the mystery and human drama that unfolds in this shop, was broadcast on TV Tokyo and AT-X from July 10 to September 25, 2018. The 12-episode series maximized the appeal of the original novel and succeeded in drawing viewers in. In this article, we will explain in detail the appeal and background of "Kura: The Secret Life of Kyoto", as well as the reasons why we recommend it.

Story and setting

The protagonist, Mashiro Aoi, is a second-year high school student who moved to Kyoto from Omiya, Saitama. One day, he brings his grandfather's antiques to "Kura" (storehouse), where he meets the storehouse owner's son, Iegashi Kiyotaka, and begins working there part-time. Kiyotaka is a 22-year-old graduate student at Kyoto University who goes by the nickname "Holmes" and works at "Kura" as an appraiser apprentice. His sharp insight and gentle demeanor open the door to a new world for Aoi.

At the storehouse, various requests related to antiques brought in by customers come in. As Aoi and Kiyotaka solve these requests, they learn about the value and history of antiques and deepen their relationships. The story depicts people's lives and memories through antiques, and is an exquisite blend of mystery elements and empathetic human drama.

character

Mashiro Aoi (voiced by Tomita Miyu) is a girl with a straightforward personality and a "good eye" that allows her to intuitively discern the value and authenticity of a work. Her growth and changes in her relationships are at the heart of the story, evoking sympathy from viewers. Kagashi Kiyotaka (voiced by Ishikawa Kaito) is a handsome, gentle-mannered, well-behaved character, but he is also known by everyone for his two-faced nature. His dark side and love of cafes add humor and depth to the story.

Other characters with unique personalities include Akito Kajiwara (voiced by Ryohei Kimura), an aspiring actor who is hostile towards Kiyotaka, Seiji Iegashira (voiced by Rikiya Koyama), Kiyotaka's father and owner of the storehouse, and Takeshi Iegashira (voiced by Youji Ueda), Kiyotaka's grandfather and former appraiser. The relationships and drama they weave make the story even more rich.

Production and staff

"Kyoto Teramachi Sanjo no Holmes" is based on the original novel by Mai Mochizuki. It is directed by Teika Sasaki, with series composition by Kenichi Yamashita, and character design and general animation direction by Yosuke Ito. Animation Studio Seven is in charge of animation, carefully capturing the atmosphere of Kyoto and the beauty of its antiques.

The music also plays an important role, with the opening theme "Koi ni Saku Nazo, Haraharato" sung by AoP and the ending theme "Makioka Yuki" by Wagakki Band. These songs add to the atmosphere of the story and bring out the emotions of the viewer.

Episodes and themes

Each episode revolves around a mystery surrounding antiques. Episode 1, "Holmes and Zen Master Hakuin," depicts the mystery surrounding Zen Master Hakuin's works, while episode 2, "When Aoi Was There," intertwines Aoi's past with the value of antiques. Episode 3, "The Kurama Villa Remains Case File," begins with sorting the remains, and episode 4, "After the Festival," focuses on antiques after the festival, which becomes the key to the story.

Episode 5, "The Lost Dragon," is about the search for lost antiques, Episode 6, "The Philosophy of an Expert," is about the philosophy of an appraiser, and Episode 7, "Confusion and Enlightenment," is about conflicts in human relationships. Episode 8, "Tears on Christmas Eve and Breaking an Alibi," is a mystery set at Christmas, Episode 9, "The Sound of Bells Ringing in Gion," is about the atmosphere of Gion and antiques, Episode 10, "The Smile of a Bisque Doll," is about a mystery surrounding a bisque doll, Episode 11, "Valentine's Night Party," is a drama set on Valentine's Day, and Episode 12, "Conditions for a Successor," is about a story about the successor to the storehouse.

Through these episodes, viewers are deeply moved by not only the value and history of antiques, but also human emotions and relationships.

Reasons for recommendation

"Kyoto Teramachi Sanjo no Holmes" is a work that combines the beauty of antiques with the intrigue of mystery. Set against the backdrop of Kyoto's atmosphere, it is an exquisite blend of human drama and mystery solving that has the power to draw viewers in. The growth of the characters and changes in relationships are also fascinating, and while each episode is independent, it forms a coherent story as a whole.

The quality of the music and art is also high, making it a work that can be enjoyed both visually and aurally. It is recommended not only for those who are interested in antiques, but also for those who like mysteries and human dramas. Furthermore, it is perfect for those who want to experience the culture and history of Kyoto, making it a great place to experience the feeling of traveling.

"Kyoto Teramachi Sanjo no Holmes" is a heartwarming work that depicts the world of antiques and the depths of the human heart. Please give it a watch.