Summer Anime Picks & the Rise of Heartwarming Iyashikei
I hope your summer is going well and that you're making time to soak up some sun, spend time with friends and family, and enjoy an anime or two. If you’re not sure what to watch, you can check two of my links for HIDIVE and Crunchyroll. While not exhaustive, they do give you a sense of what's out there and whether you should give it a try. That said, I, of all people, will not be the least offended if you haven’t had a chance to watch anything, because, after all, life happens. With that said, let's jump in with some industry news.
In case you missed it, Rent-a-Girlfriend is headed back with season four, which is currently airing on Crunchyroll, according to website sources. The series continues to be animated by TMS Entertainment, with director Kazuomi Koga (noted for his consistent comedic timing), series composition by Mitsutaka Hirota, and Kanna Hirayama (Oshi no Ko) overseeing character design. The series recently dropped two creditless versions of Season 4's opening ("Umitsuki" by ClariS) and ending ("Boku no Vega" by Regal Lily) themes. You can check out the links to the videos here. Yes, I am plugging my X page, so please follow me. The new season is now streaming on Crunchyroll, with episodes adapting the pivotal Hawaii Trip Arc and unfolding over two split cours for a total of 24–25 episodes.
Now, admittedly, as much as I have posted news about Rent-a-Girlfriend, I have never taken the time to watch the series, but I am well aware of many of the heated online conversations. Although I don't know how heated they will get, with so many new series coming out this summer, the fandom's attention is likely to be drained just trying to keep up with everything. If that’s the case, may I recommend an iyashikei or two after all this anime heat dies down? I imagine that some of you are familiar with the term, and if not, you’ve at least seen a few iyashikei series, such as Frieren: Beyond Journey's End or Mr. Villain's Day Off.
When you Need to Relax
The iyashikei genre (癒し系, literally "healing" or "healing-type") is a subgenre of Japanese anime and manga that aims to soothe and relax its audience. Iyashikei titles typically portray characters living peaceful, everyday lives in calming environments—often rural or picturesque settings—with minimal conflict or high stakes. The primary purpose is to provide comfort, emotional catharsis, and a sense of tranquility, making viewers feel as if they've taken a break from everyday stressors. The genre grew in prominence in Japan after the traumatic events of 1995 (such as the Hanshin earthquake and Tokyo subway sarin attack), when society was seeking calming, comforting media to process collective anxiety. (See Wiki)
The genre continues to gain popularity, with new releases on the horizon. Most notably, "Wash It Away" (a nice title). The Okuruto Noboru Studio recently dropped a few new visuals to spark interest in the upcoming 2026 series—the premise, Wash It All Away, is set in the hot spring resort town of Atami. Wakana, running a laundry shop despite missing memories of her past, connects with the town’s residents through cleaning items that hold precious memories. As it sounds, expect a feel-good slice-of-life story. The series is created by Mitsuru Hattori, who previously authored the series Sankarea. Sankarea: Undying Love, serialized from 2009 to 2014 in Bessatsu Shonen Magazine, is a supernatural romantic comedy about a boy obsessed with zombies who, through a twist of fate, revives a girl named Rea as one. The manga is published in English by Square Enix, and an anime adaptation was released in 2012. You can read our review here.
At the time of writing, no further details are available regarding release dates or licensing. However, if I were a betting man, I would probably wager that Crunchyroll will pick this series up. Nevertheless, handling direction duties is Kenta Onishi. He is best known for directing The Hidden Dungeon Only I Can Enter at Studio Okuruto Noboru, which marked his directorial debut. Handling series composition, Tōko Machida noted for her involvement with series such as Chaika: The Coffin Princess, Kemono Michi: Rise Up, and Akashic Records of Bastard Magic Instructor. Azuma Tozawa (aka Kibidango 14-gō) will be handling character designs. Lately, regarding the cast, only Sayumi Suzushiro has been tapped to lend her chops to this project. She is noted for her role as Nijika Ijichi in Bocchi the Rock! and Kei Shirogane in Kaguya-sama: Love is War.
Okay, well, that's all I got. See you in a few days with something new. I am cooking up a nice article on Gundam since my favorite series is celebrating its 30th anniversary. It's been that long since it was released - a little less if you were in the States and saw it on Toonami, but who's counting? In the meantime, if you are interested in a relaxing series, here are a few standout iyashikei anime recommendations that beautifully capture the healing, tranquil essence of the genre and are beloved for their calming atmospheres and gentle storytelling.
Aria the Animation
This series, set in a serene, water-laden Neo-Venezia, is a classic of the iyashikei genre, drawing viewers in with its gorgeous visuals, gentle pacing, and heartfelt character interactions. It's ideal for anyone seeking a soothing escape into another world. Produced by Hal Film Maker and directed by Junichi Sato, 'Aria the Animation' debuted in 2005 and later spawned sequels and films. This serene series is available on Crunchyroll and Apple TV, making it easily accessible to fans seeking its gentle, water-bound world.
Laid-Back Camp (Yuru Camp)
Beloved for its mix of outdoor adventure and serene, slice-of-life moments, this series invites viewers to enjoy cozy camping trips alongside its charming cast, evoking the peacefulness of nature and the bonds of friendship with every episode. Animated by C-Station and beginning in 2018, this series features multiple anime seasons, spin-offs, and a feature film. All are rooted in calm outdoor adventures and camaraderie while camping. It remains a mainstay on Crunchyroll, keeping its healing vibes just a click away for viewers.
Natsume's Book of Friends
Blending supernatural encounters with deeply human emotions, this long-running series follows Takashi Natsume's gentle journey to connect with spirits and people alike, offering subtle, restorative storytelling that's quintessentially iyashikei. This spiritually soothing supernatural series first aired in 2008 and was animated by Brain's Base (later Shuka from Season 5), expanding across six seasons and several movies. All major seasons, specials, and films are readily available to watch on Crunchyroll.
Barakamon
This series stands out for its comedic yet heartfelt portrayal of healing through rural community life, as a calligrapher finds purpose and self-discovery on a small island surrounded by quirky yet kind-hearted neighbors. Barakamon was produced by Kinema Citrus and aired in 2014, comprising 12 episodes that immersed viewers in island life and self-discovery. Its heartwarming setting is now available for streaming on Crunchyroll.
Mushishi
A contemplative series that interweaves mythical folklore with breathtaking nature, 'Mushishi' crafts a quiet, hypnotic experience through the itinerant life of Ginko and the subtle wonders and lessons he encounters along the way. Created by Studio Artland and directed by Hiroshi Nagahama, 'Mushishi' first aired in 2005, with later continuations in 2014 and a movie in 2015. It's mesmerizing, and philosophical tales are available to stream on Crunchyroll and Amazon Video, with early episodes sometimes featured for free on YouTube.
