Ah, fall is here! Time to say goodbye to flip-flops, beach trips, and rooftop lounges and say hello to tall boots, colorful leaves, and blue-gray skies. What better way to embrace the change of season than cozying up on our couches and enjoying a good ol’ Slice of Life?
Slice of Life is a subgenre of anime known for its chill aesthetics, mellow themes, and peaceful scores. Like our fuzzy Ugg boots and slouchy cable-knit sweaters, otakus often turn to SOL to escape to a warm, soothing world that makes them feel cozy and relaxed. These five anime give off that vibe, making them the perfect complement to the comfiest time of year.
- ARIA: The Animation
Where to watch: Crunchyroll
Take a break from the stresses of life and tune into a series whose breathtaking views are the anime equivalent of a European getaway. ARIA: The Animation follows 15-year-old Akari Mizunashi as she adjusts to her new life on the water-based planet Aqua.
After her arrival on the planet, Akari plants her roots in Neo-Venezia, an island city whose scenic waterfronts and picturesque architecture are inspired by the Earth city of Venice. As you watch Akari pursue her dreams of becoming a Prima Undine — a professional gondola tour guide — you’ll be whisked away to a new cozy world filled with serene locations and sparkling shores that’ll put your mind at ease. The gentle score of ARIA combined with its lighthearted tone provides a soothing escape from the chaos of the outside world.
- Skip And Loafer
Where to watch: Crunchyroll
Skip and Loafer is a spring 2023 gem that will charm you with its optimistic tale and relatable ensemble. The series follows 15-year-old Mitsumi Iwakura: an ambitious country girl with big-city dreams. Her goals of bringing positive change and reform to Tokyo land her a spot in a Tokyo high school, where she quickly learns that life doesn’t always go according to plan.
Although her determination to succeed gets her as far as Tsubame West High, Mitsumi will have to overcome major hurdles (including social anxiety and culture shock) in order to fulfill her dreams of becoming an influential politician. Luckily, she has the support of her family and her secret crush, Sousuke Shima.
Part romance, part coming-of-age story: Skip and Loafer depicts a realistic take on what it’s like to make your dreams a reality and choosing to lead with positivity and optimism versus shock, stress, and tragedy. If the anime doesn’t wow you with its crisp art style, its protagonist will definitely inspire you with her strength and perseverance touching the hearts of her peers and viewers alike.
- Non Non Biyori
Where to watch: Hi-Dive
Non Non Biyori is peak feel-good anime. It follows the daily shenanigans of four young children who attend a small school in the countryside of Japan. The school is so small that all of its students are taught in the same classroom, despite their grades ranging from first to ninth grade.
This setup makes for heart-warming comedic gold as we watch the adorably innocent Hotaru, Komari, Renge, and Natsumi navigate life in this peculiar setting. Non Non Biyori oozes light-hearted fun, making it ideal for casual viewing. The show’s peaceful setting is like soup for the soul with lush shots of nature-rich valleys and fields that’ll get straight to the heart of you. The youthful tones and tranquil visuals are top-tier fall vibes perfectly complimented by a pumpkin spice latte and a plush fuzzy blanket.
- Kimi ni Todoke (From Me to You)
Where To Watch: Crunchyroll
This coming-of-age story is heavy on the romance. From Me To You follows Sawako Kuronuma, a lonely high school student who’s used to being misunderstood and overlooked. Her luck turns around when she befriends Shouta Kazehaya, one of the most popular boys at school. This unlikely bond brings Sawako out of her shell.
Over time, Sawako’s feelings for Shouta grow stronger, and his charming ways start to rub off on her. With the help of his friendship, Sawako goes from being the shy girl that everyone avoids to befriending people throughout the student body. The way Sawako’s connections with her peers impact her life is so sweet, you can’t help but root for her. The heartwarming tale is accompanied by an elegant soundtrack and serene visuals, making this Slice of Life a huge hit among viewers.
- Laid-Back Camp
Where to watch: Crunchyroll
This cozy Slice of Life is for the nature lovers. Laid-Back Camp centers around the OutClub, a group of young girls who connect over their shared love of the outdoors. The show’s colorful universe is filled with beautiful illustrations of Japanese landscapes during the fall and winter, making it perfect for this time of year.
While Laid-Back Camp is known for its laid-back vibe — and scenic images of waterways and foliage — it’s also educational. The series provides in-depth insight into camping culture, including tips on equipment and the various uses of natural resources. As you watch Rin and the Outclub enjoy the tranquility of nature and slurp curry ramen at the base of Mount Fiji, you’ll be inspired to start a campfire of your own.
If you’re looking for a series that will help you embrace the coziness of fall, a Slice Of Life will get you right. So grab your ramen bowls, curl up under your heated blankets, and enjoy anime like Laid-Back Camp and Non Non Biyori streaming now on Crunchyroll and Hi-Dive. What’s your favorite cozy Slice Of Life? Let us know on social media @blackgirlnerds.
