Hakumei to Mikochi: Neji to Bed to Irori to Bakuchi

Karhu★ 8

Hakumei to Mikochi got its 13th episode finally. This directly continues the manga story where it was left, offering us few short stories that are of the calming sort - just like so many of the earlier episodes. We meet our weasel-carpenter who yet once again saves the day. Not because it is his job, but because he is a kind person who genuinely wants to help others. Surprisingly enough, our second story takes place inside winter scenery. Real beauty that one. At first, it felt weird how, despite the heavy snowing, there was no nature's sound present. Then I remembered how small our characters areand have to conclude snow has never looked as soft and fluffy in anime before as it looked now. The final part introduces us to a new Japanese gambling game which makes the series look like Kaiji (obviously less moe because Kaiji is super moe). Typical to Mikochi, even our games play along in a cheerful and friendly atmosphere. We see yet another evening where everyone is enjoying their time together so much it's practically impossible not to smile when witnessing this. Mikochi is so goddamn happy and charming series, and this exact episode is a perfect example of how good the show can be at what it does. The biggest flaw is how the series is only 13 episodes long instead of 50 like Shirokuma Cafe is. Those who loved the original series will be very pleased with this one.

delta5★ 8

This is the coziest episode of one of the coziest series in history. The first part is cute, but ultimately a throwaway story that others have summarized. The main story is the gambling. It's everything Hakumei to Mikochi does best: let these characters just do their own thing, enjoy the situations that unfold, and watch the (very low key) chaos fly. I truly felt like I'd want to be nowhere else in a snowstorm than in that exact place, gambling, drinking, and generally having fun with exactly those four people...although I damn well wouldn't be betting money given certain individuals...*cough* It was precisely how you'd wantto hole up on a cold, snowy night. Good friends, games, sharing jokes, hot food, and a bit of alcohol to warm you up even more. It made me feel nostalgic for some nights like that in the past. I suppose it made me feel a bit sad, although I laughed much more. But I think that's part of Hakumei to Mikochi's charm as a series. It reminds us of the most important things in life...many of which are unappreciated in your average anime series. I'd rather live in the small, simple, quiet, and charming world of this series than any giant dramatic anime of any kind. I truly hope we can see more Hakumei to Mikuchi to come. I would hate to say goodbye to the lovely art and exceptionally high quality adaptation that we've seen in this series. It's been faithful to the manga and a gift to all those who have enjoyed the experience.