Sarazanmai

Three middle school friends in Asakusa break the statue of Asakusa's guardian and wake up as kappas, mythic river-dwellers. Keppi, a guide, explains that their only path back to human form is to collect five Dishes of Hope, each granting a wish to its holder. To win them, the trio must confront kappa zombies and pull their deepest desires from within, a process tied to their own hidden feelings. Behind the scenes, two detectives aligned with the Otter Empire push a larger scheme, disguising it as a corporate venture called Kappazon Inc to steer society. To succeed, the boys form the Sarazanmai bond, and secrets surface as they struggle with friendship, loyalty, and the lure of power.

Released in 2019, Sarazanmai is a MAPPA animated series directed by Kunihiko Ikuhara with Teruko Utsumi as co creator and writer. It presents an original concept inspired by folklore rather than any adaptation.

Known for its bold saturated visuals and candid treatment of desire, identity and connection, the show sparked conversations about gender and sexuality within anime. Its surreal motifs and emotional punch left a lasting impression on fans and on the Noitamin! lineup.

Critics praised its audacious style and emotional honesty. The drama looks at how longing, social pressure and private secrets influence choices, while celebrating friendship and resilience in the face of a powerful glossy system that tries to steer desire.