6.7 / 10 (based on 75 reviews)
The story revolves around high school student Himeno Toyokawa, who joins pottery club to learn more about her mother an incredibly skilled potter renowned for creating exceptional ceramic objects.
Genre: Animation
Main Cast: Kaito Ishikawa, Yû Serizawa, Minami Tanaka, Rin Mizuhara
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1 season, 12 episodes
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In the world of anime, where genres stretch as wide as the imagination can wander, there’s a unique slice-of-life series that captures the heart of pottery making. “Yakunara Mug Cup mo,” also known as “Let’s Make a Mug Too,” is a hidden gem that debuted in 2021. This series, set in the quaint town of Tajimi in Gifu Prefecture, Japan, is more than just an anime; it’s a heartfelt journey into the world of ceramics, friendship, and self-discovery. Let’s strip away the unnecessary fluff and get into what makes this show worth your time.
The Setting
Tajimi, known for its historical and thriving pottery industry, provides the perfect backdrop for this story. The city’s rich culture and tradition in ceramics are not just a setting but a character in its own right, influencing the plot and the characters’ development. The creators did their homework, ensuring that the depiction of Tajimi and its pottery practices was accurate, offering viewers a glimpse into a world where art and tradition meld seamlessly.
The Plot
At its core, “Yakunara Mug Cup mo” follows the story of Himeno Toyokawa, a high school girl who moves to Tajimi City. Coming to grips with her new surroundings, she stumbles upon the high school’s Pottery Club. Despite having no prior experience or interest in pottery, her encounter with the club, and its passionate members, draws her into the world of ceramics. The narrative weaves through her journey of discovery, not just of pottery but of her own latent talents and her connection to her late mother, who was a renowned potter.
The Characters
The magic of this series lies in its characters, each bringing their own flavor to the story:
- Himeno Toyokawa: The protagonist, whose initial lack of direction and experience in pottery makes her relatable. Her growth, both as a potter and as a person, is the heart of the series.
- Mika Kukuri: The energetic and enthusiastic president of the Pottery Club. Her passion for ceramics is infectious, often serving as the catalyst for Himeno’s interest.
- Naoko Naruse: The talented yet reserved member of the Pottery Club. Her expertise and quiet dedication to her craft provide a contrast to Mika’s exuberance.
- Toko Aoki: Another member who brings a competitive edge to the group, striving to excel in pottery to honor her family’s legacy.
These characters, along with a supporting cast that includes family members, other students, and townsfolk, create a tapestry of interactions that are both meaningful and entertaining.
The Art of Pottery
What sets “Yakunara Mug Cup mo” apart from other slice-of-life anime is its focus on pottery. It’s not merely a backdrop for the characters’ development but a central theme that drives the narrative. The series does an excellent job of introducing viewers to the intricacies of pottery-making, from shaping and glazing to firing. It’s educational without being dry, showing the process in a way that’s both informative and visually appealing. For those unfamiliar with ceramics, it’s an eye-opening experience into the amount of skill and creativity involved.
The Animation and Music
The animation in “Yakunara Mug Cup mo” deserves a nod. It captures the essence of Tajimi and the beauty of pottery with a vibrant color palette and attention to detail. The pottery sequences, in particular, are mesmerizing, showcasing the transformation of clay into beautiful works of art. The music, with its soothing and uplifting tracks, complements the animation perfectly, enhancing the overall atmosphere of the show.
Why It Matters
At this point, you might wonder why a show about high school kids making pottery matters. It’s a fair question. “Yakunara Mug Cup mo” is a reminder of the beauty of trying something new, of stepping out of your comfort zone. It’s about the connections we forge through shared passions and the way those connections can help us understand ourselves and our place in the world. The series celebrates creativity, tradition, and the joy of creation, themes that resonate far beyond the world of pottery.
The Takeaway
“Yakunara Mug Cup mo” might not have the high stakes of a shonen battle series or the dramatic twists of a thriller, but it offers something just as valuable: a quiet, heartfelt exploration of art, friendship, and personal growth. It’s a show that invites viewers to slow down and appreciate the simpler things in life, like the feel of clay in your hands or the satisfaction of creating something with your own two hands.
For those looking for an anime that’s different from the norm, something that combines education with entertainment and throws in a healthy dose of heart, “Yakunara Mug Cup mo” is a perfect choice. It’s a series that proves you don’t need flashy battles or over-the-top drama to make a compelling story. Sometimes, all you need is a lump of clay and the willingness to see where it takes you.