Tamako Market Discussion Thread

[Buckeye]

たまこまーけっと

A KyoAni production about the life of a girl who works at a mochi shop.

Airs: Thursday, January 10

Studio: Kyoto Animation

ANN Entry (http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/encyclopedia/anime.php?id=14908)
Official Site (http://tamakomarket.com/)

Note
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[Nico87]

For what it's worth, the OP is so, so good and so is the ED. Totally getting the singles.

[Fencedude]

Oh god. This show. THIS SHOOOOOOW

It was pretty much the most insane thing KyoAni has done since Nichijou.

Just, completely bonkers, with great expressions and physical comedy.

[HitokiriShadow]

I'm not entirely sure what the fuck I just watched, but it was fantastic.

Adorable imouto is adorable (and has the most appropriate reaction to a talking bird: kimochiwarui).

Also, KyoAni has given me a new fetish: neck moles.

[superdry]

The bird stole the show. That bird got SWAG and really was entertaining to watch. But, the end...what the hell with the projection.

Oh god, the ED and preview...Tamako with her hair down! HNNNG.

Now, I have an urge for mochi and anpan.

[something]

Alright, I guess I might as well watch at least one episode on release day, since I'll likely be sitting on it until Saturday nights for all remaining episodes.

Episode 1:

- A mochi tree. >_> Merry Mochimas?
- Hahah I swore the BGM was going into the Imperial March for a second there. Also, I love the bird after one line.
- The OP looks, as usual, amazing. Also those pumping knees, what a Clannad flashback.

- Ono Daisuke, you are the loveliest woman-man-thing ever.
- ...Oh good god. This... this is going to be weird. Every time the bird talks, I just hear Kayneth from Fate/Zero. >_________>
- The cast is stacked with super-veteran older male seiyuu, really.
- Hidaka Rina's Anko is adooooooorably.
- Hahahah, the bird is trying to be suave and cool and all Anko can say is "kimochiwarui" with a very concerned and disgusted look. :sd:
- I'm really loving Suzaki Aya as Tamako.
- The bird just got a nosebleed. >_>

- Very nicely drawn mochi hands.
- Kanna <3
- "It's her fault for putting her forehead there." Tamako's friends are awesome.

- ...Bird, that was a scary lustful face there.
- And goddamn he put on weight.
- Don't make An cry ;_;
- Heh. He doesn't get he tearful goodbye he's hoping for.
- Hahah, an entire drawer full of gifts Mochizou was too embarrassed to give Tamako.

- And everyone forgets to give her gifts this year. All thanks to a silly choking bird.
- Kanna awaits Tamako's confession of love. :sd:
- ...eye beams.

Tamako with her hair down! Maaaaaan I love the ED, even more than the OP. Tamako looks a hell of a lot like Eru in the close-ups. Adorable.

Goddamn, Tamako is just the most magnificently sweet and wonderful girl ever. <3

[bear]

I must be in a bad mood. It just didn't work for me. Kimochiwarui indeed.

[Buckeye]

- Since when did plants come with a bird?
- That's no ordinary chicken. It talks, and his name is Dera Disgusting Mochi. What kind of name is that?
- The bird is freezing to death, but it's the bathhouse to the rescue. No, you can't see the girls naked.
- New Year's Day is around the corner. Gotta work OT in the mochi factory.
- That bird sure loves to eat mochi, but he has gotten too big.
- It's an emergency! The bird choked on a mochi. Wait, he's alright if he puts it back in his throat.
- About Tamako's birthday. Wait, how did they forget about it?
- And the bird has a built-in projector.

KyoAni has done it once again, and this show is definitely great. It's cute and the antics of the bird is certainly great.

[FUNiOP]

Definitely not a favorite so far, but with KyoAni, I'm sure there will be some good stuff eventually.

[pathos]

I must be in a bad mood. It just didn't work for me. Kimochiwarui indeed.

I started out liking it, but by the end of the episode, I was actually pretty bored. Kind of hope it picks up.

[ndm]

I must be in a bad mood. It just didn't work for me. Kimochiwarui indeed.

I thought it was decent but focussed too much on the bird at the expense of Tamako's time on screen. Personally I've never been a fan of animal characters in anime and I'd rather watch Tamako's antics than the bird's.

[scineram]

Fun introductory episode, but I wasn't blown by it. Has lot of potential though, depends on where the story will be going, especially with the prince.

[Nico87]

God help me but I can't get through the first episode. Bird guy fucked me unexpectedly and it's too much kawaii without substance. I really want this to get better over the next few episodes. Wish I had watched through the first episode before Kotoura-san, Maoyuu and to a lesser degree Vividred. All three had major (maybe not major in Maoyuu's case) plot development and twists throughout their respective opening episodes.

Maybe Yuruyuri, Hidamari Sketch and more specifically K-On was enough.

[something]

God help me but I can't get through the first episode. Bird guy fucked me unexpectedly and it's too much kawaii without substance. I really want this to get better over the next few episodes. Wish I had watched through the first episode before Kotoura-san, Maoyuu and to a lesser degree Vividred. All three had major (maybe not major in Maoyuu's case) plot development and twists throughout their respective opening episodes.
They were all doing the same thing Tamakoma is: establishing a setting, introducing characters, and laying out the premise. Maoyuu described the current state of the human/demon war and created a pretext for the protagonists to get together. Kotoura-san started off with a condensed run through a character's past as set-up for the changes her life is about to take as she enters a new environment. Vividred offered the most hilariously (and enjoyably) generic "mysterious monsters attack and only our protagonist teen has the special powers to defeat them" opening episode ever. Tamakoma started introducing a large cast of characters, establishing their places in the shopping district and their relations to one another, and oh by the way there's a talking bird seeking a wife for his mysterious prince in a faraway land.

It's fine if you don't like the episode but claiming it was somehow "without substance" compared to the others sounds a bit strange. Especially lolVividred, which just pasted cute girls in tight pants over the standard opener of every other "mysterious alien invaders" show that's ever existed. Not that I am complaining about that, mind you.

[MelancholicMariya]

and it's too much kawaii without substance.

I don't know about that. There was a lot less mushy moé stuff in this compared to Kyoto Animation's other works. It was mostly about the sassy cockerel and Mochizo who took up the screentime from what I remember, less so Tamako and other girls.

I don't know, point is I think this is way less "moé centric" than Kyoto Animation's other works, personally.

[Nico87]

Yeah, I wasn't sure whether "substance" was the right word to use. I guess I'm trying to refer to my bottom line in my previous post that.... I don't even know. It's hard to explain. Normally I'm not a fan of super-moe-cute-is-70%-of-the-anime type stuff but the three examples in my previous post won me over. I might have reached some sort of invisible barrier or whatever when it comes to stuff like that. I don't really watch enough anime to make those types of anime my "breaks" from err.. heavier stuff. Fuck it, I don't know how to explain it, really, but it's like this:

I could never watch the following animes one after another without watching something entirely different in between:

K-On!
Dog Days
YuruYuri
Hidamari Sketch
Hidamari Sketch x 365
K-On!! (first cour)
Dog Days'
YuruYuri♪♪
Hidamari Sketch x Hoshimittsu
...
...

and so on. I think it stems from the days when I played a lot of video games. I loved JRPGs but I couldn't play three 80-hour JRPGs in a row.

Like I said, it's hard to explain and maybe the words came out the wrong way or something. Language barrier and whatnot. It certainly didn't give me as much as K-On did. Maybe it's the talking bird-guy, I don't know.

I never argued that Vividred is super-original or whatever, but I never watched Strike Witches!

Maybe I should just wait for the second episode and "marathon" (yeah, huge marathon) the first two episodes and perhaps offer a more sensible judgement after that. Like I said, I haven't completed the first episode yet. I think I turned it off when they all gathered in the mochi shop after around 12 minutes or so because I was dead tired. Maybe I just wasn't in the mood.

[something]

Yeah, I wasn't sure whether "substance" was the right word of choice. I guess I'm trying to refer to my bottom line in my previous post that.... I don't even know. It's hard to explain. Normally I'm not a fan of super-moe-cute-is-70%-of-the-anime type stuff but the three examples in my previous post won me over. I might have reached some sort of invisible barrier or whatever when it comes to stuff like that. I don't really watch enough anime to make those types of anime my "breaks" from err.. heavier stuff.
That makes more sense. It was mostly the "no substance" refrain that caught my attention, because it's a common criticism, but rarely if ever explained. Usually when people say that, they really just mean it wasn't a genre they like, or the story wasn't dark and/or serious enough for their tastes. But even weirder is when KyoAni gets singled out for these claims, when I see them as more committed to conveying a substantive message in their works than just about anyone else, no matter what kind of story they're trying to tell. The message may at times be a lighthearted, gentle one about the deep ties of friendship and community, but that is certainly a substantive and meaningful sort of message too.

Just to clarify again, me liking this show doesn't mean I can't see why others might not. There's a lot of quirkiness in the humor and visuals, especially in Dera, that is not going to engage some people. Since Dera is basically looking like the real protagonist, if you don't like him it might be a slog to get through an episode. I'm not a big fan of talking animals in major roles myself, but what really sold me on it was how everyone else reacted to him (plus the hilarity of imagining F/Z's Kayneth while he's talking).

I'm still going to be hoping for a lot more focus on Tamako herself going forward, with Dera in more of a supporting role, but I suppose we'll have to see what they have in mind.

[Nico87]

[tastes. But even weirder is when KyoAni gets singled out for these claims

That wasn't my intention at all. I love KyoAni to death and almost everything is a blind import for me. The only reason I hesitate with Tamako is because I'm behind on anime from past seasons and some BD boxes. I imported Clannad, Hyouka, Haruhi and Lucky Star (and K-On! vol. 7 for the box) + Chuunibyou on pre-order, so it's nothing against them at all. Maybe it was an expectation thing, but I can't really say.

Like I said, I will definitely give it a fair shot sooner rather than later, but when I can't get through an episode it's usually not a great sign.

*Just remembered that the no substance-thing is the most cliche anti-KyoAni argument ever so I officially withdraw that comment*

[something]

That wasn't my intention at all. I love KyoAni to death and almost everything is a blind import for me. The only reason I hesitate with Tamako is because I'm behind on anime from past seasons and some BD boxes. I imported Clannad, Hyouka, Haruhi and Lucky Star (and K-On! vol. 7 for the box) + Chuunibyou on pre-order, so it's nothing against them at all. Maybe it was an expectation thing, but I can't really say.
Ah yeah sorry, I know you're definitely a fan of KyoAni's work generally, so that was intended more as a general comment.

[Nikopol]

Huh. Personally, when i can't even finish a first episode, i walk away from a show. Especially, if there are plenty of other shows i like or think i will like. (I tend to weed out a lot each season and mostly just watch around five or six shows to the end. So 'plenty' is very subjective here.)

I like Tamako Market so far and i think, it might have the most three-dimensional world of the recent KyoAni shows thanks to the diverse and developed supporting cast. Also Tamako's character herself doesn't seem to be determined by one big defining trait (like Yui=airhead, Chitanda=clueless, Rikka=chu2byo etc.). That is one of the big reasons, why i will keep watching this show.

But i think one thing becomes clear for me: the copy&paste K-On! artstyle in all their shows is becoming a bit stale for me. Sure their shows keep selling, but from an artistic point of view, it's rather too repetitive.

[MelancholicMariya]

But i think one thing becomes clear for me: the copy&paste K-On! artstyle in all their shows is becoming a bit stale for me. Sure their shows keep selling, but from an artistic point of view, it's rather too repetitive.

Other than Tamako, her friends and Anko I don't really see much resemblance to K-ON!. All of the older characters are very diverse and look really unique, I've not seen anyone quite like Daisuke Ono's character in a Kyoto Animation work before. Though not to say I don't see what you're getting at, but I feel as if Kyoto Animation's character designs are much more varied than they're given credit. Hyouka looks different from K-ON! and Chuunibyou looks different from Hyouka. Outside of the big-ish eyes and circular mouths I don't see too many similarities in design.

Though for me when it comes to design I judge on the entire aesthetic. Tamako Market is very, very vibrant and its use of colour is amazing so far, way beyond anything else they've ever made in my opinion. Though I do personally prefer Hyouka's realism, I do very much appriciate the route they're taking with Tamako Market. It almost feels like a brighter Abenobashi.

[something]

But i think one thing becomes clear for me: the copy&paste K-On! artstyle in all their shows is becoming a bit stale for me. Sure their shows keep selling, but from an artistic point of view, it's rather too repetitive.
This is the only show since K-ON that I think really uses the same style, and so it's no surprise that it's from it's the same character designer, as well as the same creative team as a whole. Even then, I'd say the similarities vary depending on which character you're looking at. The younger the character, the closer it is, I guess.

It's apparent, at least to my eyes, that Hyouka definitely used a different style. Anyone would agree that Nichijou was totally different too. That leaves Chuunibyou, which I feel is more of a fusion of the Horiguchi (some of the overall softness) and Ikeda Kazumi styles (the sharper close-ups) than just one or the other. ultimatemegax also made a good point in the Hyouka 11.5 subthread about how they use different color palettes, and how that gives a unique mood to their three most recent shows. This is also where Tamako stands out, just compare the overall coloring for this and K-ON! and they really are very different.

[Draneor]

Adorable, quirky, cute---not what I was expecting, but in a good way. Anko is so cute. I did notice Tamako seems to get hit on the head a lot.

But most importantly, little does the chicken know, he's being fattened up.

[Fencedude]

Welp, if there was any doubt that Midori's 100% gay for Tamako, thats been cleared up.

Now if she can just bring herself to actually tell Tamako...

[something]

So I'm gonna see if I can watch Tamakoma on Wednesdays each week. This probably won't last bt it's worth a shot.

Episode 2:

- Tamako in the morning. Hair down? Glasses? ::dies::
- Hahahah, Dera has this marvelous "suave" look on his face.
- This OP is such a visual treat. My eyes barely know where to look.
- Heart mochi!
- I like how everyone has pretty much accepted Dera's presence already. Except Anko, anyway.

- Midori! Suddenly she gets approached by the mirror image of Ui.
- Kanna drew up blueprints for her chocolate. Also she's awesome.
- Midori is popular with both girls and guys and gets lots of chocolate - but is still single. Tamako and Kanna teasing her is adorable.
- Midori wants to know who Tamako is giving chocolate to...

- Tamako is not satisfied with the lack fo Valentine's decorations.
- Heh, Tamako and Mochizou have a string phone set up for clandestine communications. ...They don't own normal cellphones?
- Tamako bonk. Nice throw. Has to be pretty difficult to throw a paper cup across the street with that much accuracy, even if we see them weigh it down with some kind of putty first.

- Haha. Tamako's proposal goes over well except with her dad. I love her reaction after her hears her call him bald.
- Tamako loves Midori's hair. Kanna loves finding split ends. More of those three please.
- Usagi Tamako!
- Heh, Tamako's dad is in Valentine's hell.

- Shopping district commercial filming time. It's a little weird seeing Tamako get so nervous here and at the meeting, because she's normally the most friendly, outgoing girl ever. I'm not sure I get the switch, though it's amusing to watch her failure, and Midori giggling at her.
- Midori's grandpa is kinda cool.
- Everybody Loves Somebody, this show's motto.
- Kanna sneezed on Dera too. He's on his way to a harem now isn't he? Also, uh, she was decidedly nonplussed despite seeing him for the first time.
- Oh man. I didn't think they would, but it looks like they really are going there with Midori, at least tentatively. I would really really realllllllllly like to get super excited about that, but I'm certain getting my hopes up at all would just result in crushing, brutal, bottomless, hopeless, infinite disappointment, sorrow, darkness, and paaaaaaaaain.

- But back to hilarity, haha, poor Tamako's dad. XD I thought Tamako was going to be all like "Dad that's great!" but instead she starts cracking up in the cutest imaginable way. HAH.
- The bird... can... haha wow that's pretty handy.
- "Anyone can love anyone they want." You're such a good girl, Kanna. ;_;
- Heh I need more of Midori teasing Tamako.

Goddamn this show is good. The first episode was great, but this episode definitely sold me on the whole thing. Well, certain misgivings aside.

[HitokiriShadow]

Uh, wow, they were pretty blunt about who Midori liked. I can only hope this "people can love whoever they want" thing ends up being a broader theme in the show.

And oh god, Meganekko Tamako.

And Anko seems to be warming up to Dera by the end. She doesn't immediately express revulsion anymore, at least. Which is kind of disappointing.

[TheGreenMan]

What? Tamako wears glasses...and then not...
Tamako and Kanna talking in unison makes me SQEEEEEEE!
Did I say how much I love Kanna? The way she straggled in the classroom. That animation quality right there (Yes, I know it's delibrate).
Tamako and Kanna in bunny suits! SQEEEE!
Ummmm...does Midori know the bird? Also, what with Dera's reaction when he saw her? Love? Recognition?
"Anybody can love whomever they want." Spot on Kanna. Either she knows about Midori's crush on Tamako, or she loves Midori?
So, Kanna does make the house...but for WHO?
Did I say how much I love Kanna? Best character in the show, IMO.

[ultimatemegax]

Episode was good. I enjoyed it.

What impressed me most was the combination of Yamada's storyboards in conjunction with Kigami's direction for this episode. So many scenes were perfectly timed. The brief pause between Tamako and Mochizou's nervousness when speaking at the neighborhood meeting and then the rapid shift to Yumoto who continues the nervousness was very well executed. I also liked the scene where Mochizou deciphers Tamako's message, gets out the cups/string, plants some dough to give the cup some weight, and then perfectly nails Tamako with his throw. Yamada has learned very well from Ishihara on comedic timing. Just an overall well-timed episode where things never felt rushed, but was fast-paced in general. I've been impressed with Yamada's storyboarding/timing for EDs since "Don't Say Lazy," but she's really grown into her own with this show. I'd love to see more of the Yamada/Kigami combo (they've previously teamed up for K-On!! ep 4 (Kigami storyboards/Director) and the movie (Supervisor Yamada/Layout supervisor Kigami)).

[FUNiOP]

Every time I see that part near the beginning of the OP where Tamako is skipping along and it shows her legs, I can't help thinking of the beginning of the Clannad After Story ED.

The show is cute and fun (and pretty), but hasn't done much to really grab me yet. I probably still like it more than most shows this season, but I just automatically compare it to other KyoAni series, which is of course unfair both because of the studio's constant level of quality and how early in the show we still are. There were definitely a few touches that brought some interest to what may lie in the future, so I appreciate that and it keeps me at least a little intrigued already.

[something]

Episode 3:

- Meganekko tiiiiiiiiime! Nice catch, or at least nice attempt. Dera needs to go on a diet.

- Class assignment changes. Of course Midori is the odd one out. ;_:
- Shiori is in Tamako and Kanna's class. She's so cold. Befriend her, stat!
- Thumbs up.
- I love when Tamako temporarily freezes up. That can result in very awkward scenes in other shows, but she recovers prety quickly so the painful moments don't happen.
- Hhahaha Kanna's introduction is the best introduction. "I love right angles. I'm interested in wooden beams. I want to fix the locker behind me." XD
- Shiori continues to give Tamako the cold shoulder. ;_; How can you do that? Tamako is so lovable.

- Failed attempt to catch fat bird #2. Ganbatte, Shiori.
- "How are you talking? You're a bird." I think this is what passes for "flustered" for Shiori. :sd:
- GJ Dera. He serves as a useful vehicle for delivering Shiori to Tamako for some befriending.
- Hahaha awwwww, Tamako is so adorably nervous around Shiori. That or she wants to become friends so intensely that she's trembling. :sd:
- GJ Dera, don't let her leave either!
- Haha, Shiori ends up making them dinner. Anko helped. Anko is disturbingly cute when she smiles. <3
- Public baths with Shiori, Anko and Tamako! Characters usually look different with their hair down, but Tamako looks really, really different.
- And then hair down and tied to the side and glasses and ::passes out::

- Kanna really did fix the locker. :sd:
- Huh, Shiori is a tough one. She's back to avoiding Tamako at school. Damnit, be befriended!
- OH MY GOD. Shiori in the bathroom, with her glasses off, practicing thanking Tamako. And making herself totally embarrassed. She totally wants to say it, but can't. I loooooooooove Shiori.
- Heh, she finally works up the courage but misses her opportunity.
- GJ again Dera. Shiori tries to get out of thanking Tamako by asking Dera to, but he's not letting her off so easily. =D

- A bit of fateful intervention from their teacher later and it's off to Tamako's again! Heh, just knowing Tamako is like a free pass to VIP treatment in Usagi-yama shopping district.
- BWHAHA poor Dera. He delivers Shiori, and she ends up on a date with Tamako instead. Dera just got tossed under the bus.

- At the coffee shop... BEFRIENDING COMPLETE! And it is just gloooooorious. I am so fucking giddy now. They're goddamned adorable.
- Of course Shiori wanted to be friends with them all along, but when confronted with a real chance, she didn't know what to do.

Best episode yet, goddamn. So so so good.

Dera was used perfectly here. He provided his usual amusing quirkiness, but it all served the explicit purpose of bringing Shiori and Tamako together.

[Fencedude]

That was dangerously adorable.

Shiori is way, way to cute.

[HitokiriShadow]

Oh god, Shiori, how are you so adorable? The mirror scene damn near killed me.

Kanna continues to be incredibly amusing in her minimal bits of screentime.

Looks like next time will be an Anko episode if the preview focus is an accurate representation of the episode.

[bear]

Episode 3:
Best episode yet, goddamn. So so so good.

Finally an episode I really liked. Shiori is love! OMG she was cute. I'll even cut the damn bird some slack since he got her and Tamako together.

[Ashyukun]

Kanna is awesome... and Shiori is a great shy, cool girl. But Kanna... what's not to love about a girl who carries around tools and randomly fixes lockers (and obsesses about them until she does so?) :)

[Draneor]

I'm wondering if Kanna could be autistic (or maybe OCD). That locker being out of order was really distressing her wnf it had to be fixed. She's consistently been different so far too. All of the characters in the show are quirky in their own way and it doesn't affect how anyone treats them. So it would be in line with the theme to have an autistic character.

And seeing Shiori struggle with her shyness and social awkwardness is really sweet and heart wrenching. Which also ties into the theme of acceptance.

I'm sorry though, Dera. The mammal/bird relationship cultural gap may just be too large to bridge. I felt for you though, when your feather of love was turned down. Perhaps you should start with a reptile?

[meruruchan]

That was seriously and dangerously cute. Best episode so far.

[StudioZEL]

Kanna is awesome... and Shiori is a great shy, cool girl. But Kanna... what's not to love about a girl who carries around tools and randomly fixes lockers (and obsesses about them until she does so?) :)

We're talking about a girl who drew up a damn set of blueprints to build a chocolate house for Valentine's. She's a builder/fixer at heart. :3

[Ingraman]

I loved this episode, and enjoyed watching Shiori try to push herself to talk to Tamako, Kanna get obsessive-compulsive, and all of the shop owners lavish attention on anyone carrying a bird a fat bird that talks. ^^

I haven't thought too much yet about which Winter series to import, but it would be hard not to have this one in that pile...

[Nikopol]

Best episode so far. "Nothing" happened, except for a girl being shy. Which was more than enough for Tamako Market to move up the ranks, now being my second favorite show of the season so far.

And Kanna might end up being my favorite character of this show.

[FUNiOP]

Is that... Pocky in Shiori's hair? There are very few scenes in which that's not what I see. Also, she and Tamako looked quite similar in the bath. Anko, too, just smaller.

[Ingraman]

Is that... Pocky in Shiori's hair? There are very few scenes in which that's not what I see.
Argh! That's what I forgot to mention in my post. Every time I saw Shiori, I was wondering if that was an emergency stash of Pocky in her hair... ^^

[Damius]

That sure was an heartwarming episode. I love Tamako and An as well they are both so adorable and so cute. And, undoubtedly this is another possible import.

[Fencedude]

Sorry, just over here dying of moe.

[HitokiriShadow]

Hnnnnnnnnnnnnngggggggggggggggggg Ankoooooooooo

Loved Anko's smirk when she made the "obese bird" comment, but naturally she was amazing the entire time.

Also, I'm pretty sure Tamako is fattening up Dera to turn him into a nice holiday meal at some point. ultimatemegax pointed out that chicken is a Christmas delicacy and the show started at New Year and seems to be hitting major Japanese holidays, so.....

[something]

Episode 4:

- Anko-hime! Why yes, yes you are ridiculously cute.
- Tamako is going to kill Dera with mochi love.
- Snarky Anko. <3
- I guess one thing Anko should like about Dera is that he's the only one who calls her "An".
- Anko is in love. Tamako is oblivious, but of course Midori gets it. Even Kanna gets it. "It's kind a relief you're this dense." Ahhhhh, that line says a lot.

- Anko's friends are cute.
- Dad is a buzzkill. No museum date for Anko.
- Sorry Mochi boy, you've reached the wrong Kitashirakawa sister.
- "I can hear you across the street, we don't need these!" XD Anko you're too practical.
- So she tries to recruit him to help. Of course he'd agree, he gets to be with Tamako.

- Hahaha, poor Anko, she's surrounded by idiots. <3
- Morning mochi! And wtf Shiori! Not that I mind. Shiori and Anko together ohmygod.
- Someone finally finds a use for Dera. :sd:
- Ooh, Kanna came to help too.

- Awww... Anko remembering when she was younger and dressed up for the festival. Now she can tell the kids the things she was told. I'm guessing we're in for some sweet yet heartbreaking stuff about their mother at some point.
- The whole world is conspiring against her date.
- lol way to fail Mochizou.
- Anko is into boys who wear e=mc^2 shirts and buy fossils for souvenirs.

Anko is ridiculously cute.

[bear]

Hnnnnnnnnnnnnngggggggggggggggggg Ankoooooooooo

Call me An! Just the cutest.

Also, I'm pretty sure Tamako is fattening up Dera to turn him into a nice holiday meal at some point. ultimatemegax pointed out that chicken is a Christmas delicacy and the show started at New Year and seems to be hitting major Japanese holidays, so.....
Oh, something to really look forward to. Roast pompous bird. Yumm;)

That dam bird finally made me laugh with the group chasing him to use him on the shrine.

And Shiori comes by!

[Draneor]

That was so utterly cute, innocent, and adorable. I'm in pure heaven. KyoAni, you got me good. I never knew a childish crush could give me such feels... This is such a heartwarming show.

And, uh, almost time for tori no karaage mochi.

[Nikopol]

My adorableness-meter broke, i need a new one with a higher range.

I love how they keep avoiding any kind of plot besides daily life stuff. LOL

[meruruchan]

[22:24:20] Meruru: oh my god wwwwwwwww
[22:24:31] Meruru: THIS EPISODE
[22:25:10] Meruru: TGHJILTKGHGWWWW
[22:25:51] Meruru: HAS KYOANI GONE TOO FAR?


This show will seriously kill me.
And next episode has swimsuit Midori. That would be a pleasant way to die.

[FUNiOP]

Well that was all ridiculously adorable. I still haven't found anything to really grab onto in the story, but it's doing a great job at making me care about each of the characters one by one, and of course the presentation is always expertly done. And I love the constant overwhelming generosity of the entire Usagiyama community.

[ultimatemegax]

The show will have a novel published (http://urawa14.blog40.fc2.com/blog-entry-147.html) in April by KyoAni.

[Damius]

- Tamako with her hair down!! And Glasses… So cute!
- Heart mochi version.
- Uniform under the kotatsu… Did Tamako get her idea from Minami-ke?
- Midori and Ui?
- Good morning Kanna-chan.
- Tamako and Kanna teasing Midori were so adorable.
- Tamako was saved by the bell.
- Tamako and Mochizou are communicating like it was done in the old time.
- A proposal from Tamako? Everyone likes Tamako idea except…her dad.
- I already love so much when Tamako, Midori and Kanna are together.
- It’s time to do a commercial with two Usagi!
- “Everybody Loves Somebody” Eh.
- Une chanson en français. (a song in french) It's always nice to have a song in my mother tongue.
- Well, Tamako’s father decided to participate too.
- I hope so much they will take that route with Midori… Hope so much.
- What?? The bird can do that?
- "Anyone can love anyone they want." You are so right Kanna!

This show is so heartwarming! It definitely the best way to end the week-end for me.

[bear]

I'm actually warming up to that damn bird. Maybe because the whole animal kingdom is after his hide.

Ok, Midori is actually in love with Tamako. I had though it might be Kana.

Wow, who would have thought to ship Midori and Mochizou? I like it! After the shipping wars on RC, seeing a non cliched romance would be a real breath of fresh air.

Not much happened but I really enjoyed this episode.

[HitokiriShadow]

Those pink outfits looked weird.

Anyway, Tamako's yell/whisper to Midori was adorable. Kanna and Midori's thumbs up/wink at the end was very cute.

I was slightly worried for a bit because I saw someone act as if this episode had Midori showing romantic interest in Mochizou. And sure, it shipped Midori x Mochizou hard.... if you have your het goggles on and/or think any interaction between characters of the opposite sex automatically means one of the parties is interested in the other.

It was pretty clear her romantic interest lies strictly with Tamako and sees Mochizou as a friend.... at best. More like a friend of a friend. Her and Mochizou comparing their knowledge of Tamako is an old romantic rival thing, I'm not sure how people could watch that scene and come away with the idea that Midori likes Mochizou.

[something]

Episode 5:

- Summertime Tamako! <3
- You tell her Midori, NO BOYS ALLOWED.
- So more Midori love focus. ::worried:: It's so easy for them to fuck this up. Please please don't fuck this up.
- They better be inviting Shi--YAY!

- Of course Tamako can't swim. Also: school swimsuit for Tamako. Bikini for Midori. Onepiece for Shiori. Looks like a onepiece for Kanna as well. I guess those are all the obvious choices.

- Do not dribble the bird, Mochizou.
- Hahahah Dera is trollfacing Mochizou like crazy.
- No, Dera. Do not help Mochizou.

- Well that was the shortest pool episode. She's home already.
- And yay slightly baked Anko.

- Uhhhh wow, Tamako's summer uniform is... pink. Very pink. It's kinda hideous.
- ::twitch:: I don't know if I like where this episode is going.
- Midori overhears something of Mochizou's plan, and yeaaaah, she totally connects the dots.
- And sabotages! Unfortunately I'm pretty sure adversity just makes Mochizou end even more likely than it was. Ahhhhh I wish this show would just never get serious about romance at all. It's only going to end in heartbreak for me.
- Wow, a direct confrontation already.
- A very "my memories could beat up your memories" confrontation of 12 year old insults and comebacks. :sd:

- Oh yay swimsuits again. Tamako floaties <3
- "What do you think about me?" "I love you." Oh, Midori. Why did you ask? Hearing her say it, knowing how she actually means it, has to be worse than not hearing it at all. ;_;

- "You're drowning." Kanna is evil.
- Fireworks.

And... ...I feel like this was Midori giving up, already. As soon as she asked Tamako how she felt about her, I think she just gave up. Which might be for the best but, arrrrrrrrrrghhhhhhhhhhhhh I don't know what to make of this. What I want is completely and utterly impossible. But they've left Midori's feelings completely clear. Can't even fall back on "well, it's okay it didn't go that way because she isn't really romantically interested" because this is totally canon.

Goddamnit Tamako Market you're going to destroy me. Why do you have to nonetheless be so good? ;_;

[something]

I was slightly worried for a bit because I saw someone act as if this episode had Midori showing romantic interest in Mochizou. And sure, it shipped Midori x Mochizou hard.... if you have your het goggles on and/or think any interaction between characters of the opposite sex automatically means one of the parties is interested in the other.

It was pretty clear her romantic interest lies strictly with Tamako and sees Mochizou as a friend.... at best. More like a friend of a friend. Her and Mochizou comparing their knowledge of Tamako is an old romantic rival thing, I'm not sure how people could watch that scene and come away with the idea that Midori likes Mochizou.
Yeah seriously, a Midori x Mochizou end would be even worse than a Tamako x Mochizou end. There is absolutely no way Midori is into Mochizou, and if the show tries to shift over into that direction I will be extremely disappointed.

Argh, but there's really no way this will end well. My brain is screaming out to just stop watching to avoid torturing myself but I can't possibly drop a show that's this incredibly good. And yet, how I'm feeling right now... such a good episode of anime shouldn't make me feel so bad. ;_;

[Fencedude]

lol. Midori and Mochizou's metaphorical pissing contest over Tamako.

Anyway, love triangle is officially in motion, even if the top corner remains completely oblivious.

Also, those fireworks had the most amazing sound design ever.

[FUNiOP]

I can't remember the last time I saw a serious love triangle with one side straight and the other gay. Very interesting to see it here. I'd imagine there's little chance that any couple will result from it in the end, though.

[tytan88]

Leave it to KyoAni to do the good stuff. I love how they've increased the dramatic tension between the characters.....not overwhelmingly, but just enough to let you know its there.

Loved the dribbling bird bit. Tamako was so cute in her floaties trying to tread water. The bird showing Mochizou his dance and the conflict between Midori and Mochizou. All this with fireworks and swimsuits makes a perfect episode.

[something]

Episode 6:

- Suddenly the shopping district is completely abandoned except for Tamako and Dera. Mysterious! Someone call Houtarou and Eru.
- Or maybe it's just way slow during that time of day. So Tamako proposes a haunted house.
- Planning meeting with Kanna and Midori. Shiori is off at badminton camp, thus MIA.
- ...These pink uniforms really are terrible.

- The haunted house plans take on a new meaning when the adults start (imagining they're) seeing disembodied souls and zombies and other such things.
- Tamako wears the cutest goddamn casual clothes.
- >_> The adults are turning Tamako's haunted house into exorcism central.
- And their overreacting is drumming up quite the interest in the shopping district really being haunted. Attempts to keep people away are just raising the numbers.

- Yaaay Shiori is back.
- The three cutest ghosts ever give Shiori a trial run. =D
- And the haunted house opens! Oh god Tamako why are you so adorable?
- And it's over soon after it starts. But the shopping district is hopping now.

Fun, though not one of the stronger episodes. Bit too much of the adults, not enough of Tamako and friends.

But in the end, that other girl briefly appears... Can't wait for next time.

[HitokiriShadow]

Kanna is a national treasure.

The adults trying to "protect" Tamako and her friends secretly was pretty funny.

Shiori is smarter than about six adults. Her screentime wasn't too bad here, but it feels like we really haven't gotten much of her since her episode. I'd like her to get some more significant screentime in the future. On the upside, nothing wasted on Mochizou this time.

I hope we see more of the teacher's wife at some point.

AND CHOI IS COMING, OMG YES. DELICIOUS BROWN GIRL INCOMING. Next Wednesday cannot come soon enough.

[Fencedude]

Shiori and Kanna together are smarter than the entire adult population of Usagi-yama.

But man, those pink uniforms. Just...why.

DELICIOUS BROWN ATTENDANT NEXT TIME

[bear]

Now I know why I don't like the bird: He's competition for Shiori's affections. He does have good taste though.

Kanna just moved into second place in my affections. Her using the bird for her dirtywork was awesome.

The teacher is a real nerd, but a nice guy. His wife however is adorable.

[FUNiOP]

And today we learn that all the adults in Usagiyama, while very nice, are extremely stupid.

Fun episode but not too necessary. New episode should be good with new character coming.

[Damius]

- Tamako and Kanna are in the same class but, Midori… is not… ;_;
- Time for the introductions!
- Dera, you are more useful than we would think at first. Cup of tea, with Shiori… at Tamako’s place.
- And of course, everyone thinks Shiori is Tamako’s friends. Well, she will be in a matter of minutes.
- Can I try some sakuramochi too?
- Shiori finds it delicious and Tamako is so happy. ^_^
- Thanks to Shiori’s mother, she will be late. Shiori’s doesn’t have a choice to stay for dinner now. Hehe.
- Bath time!
- Tamako with glasses… leaves me without words…
- Shiori is ignoring Tamako again… Why?
- Awwww… Shiori is practicing saying “Thank you” and “It was fun” in the bathroom. So adorable.
- Shiori, you can’t say that you are not lovely… It’s the extreme opposite!
- Dera says it; Shiori needs to thank Tamako, not him.
- Awwww. They are officially friends now and so adorable!

Yeah, I agree, best episode yet! And the best thing to watch before going to bed… before a week of hell… Week? Wait I should say 12 days of hell, since I’ll have 12 days without a day off… March 2nd can’t come soon enough… At least, I’ll have some time to watch some anime.

[something]

Reposting meruruchan's ep 7 post as a reply to the top post in an ep 7 subthread. Please note this in the top post: "1) If you're the first person to post about an episode in any given week, please respond to the root post (this post)..."

My prayers have been answered.
Choi is justice.

Please make any ep 7 replies under this. Thanks.

[meruruchan]

Oh, sorry, I forgot about that... :sweat:

[HitokiriShadow]

Choi was a lot of fun, she's very cute. Pretty much everything I was hoping she would be.

We also get to see Choi's momos, making this the the most fanservicey KyoAni episode ever, I think.

And apparently Sayuri is old enough to be discussing marriage, which is a bit surprising.

[bear]

Choi was a lot of fun, she's very cute. Pretty much everything I was hoping she would be.


I was worried about what Choi would be like. She was great. The fact that Dera is scared to death of her is icing on the cake.

[angelx03]

So supposedly today, they released the Tamako Market character CD containing songs sung by the main girls. Here's the playlist:

http://tamakomarket.com/cd/


1. おもちアフェっクション！
歌：北白川たまこ (cv：洲崎 綾)
作詞・作曲・編曲：山口 優
2. Girlfriend
歌：常盤みどり (cv：金子有希)
作詞：愛鈴／作曲：Gille Audiard／編曲：永田太郎
3. カンカン・マキマキ
歌：牧野かんな (cv：長妻樹里)
作詞・作曲・編曲：松前公高
4. Call me Anne
歌：北白川あんこ (cv：日高里菜)
作詞：宮川 弾／作曲・編曲：藤本功一
5. 今日も言えない
歌：朝霧史織 (cv：山下百合恵)
作詞・作曲・編曲：宮川 弾
6. 太陽とドラム
歌：お付き (cv：山岡ゆり)
作詞：山口 優／作曲・編曲：片岡知子
7. きっとね、ずっとね、よろしくね。
歌：たまこ･みどり･かんな･あんこ･史織･お付き
作詞・作曲・編曲：藤本功一



#2 made me snicker.....:catgirl:

[something]

Episode 7:

- Choi Choi Choi! When Choi calls, all shall answer.
- And a cute sleepy Tamako.
- Oh god, Choi is perfect. It'll be nice to see someone who doesn't indulge all of Dera's silliness.
- Death stare. <3
- Choi Mochimazzui! Man she is short. She's smaller than Tamako.
- So for as self-important as Dera asks, he's basically just a fortune telling tool.

- Dera can only communicate when he's unable to communicate. You are a useless videoconferencing partner.
- Choi is sent to find a bride for the prince when she quite clearly wants to be that bride.
- Tamako, you must befriend Choi with the power of mochi.
- Now Dera has Choi paranoid about all offers of kindness. :sd: You're such a jerk, Dera. Poor Choi.
- HAH, if at first she rejects your kindness, JUST BURY HER IN MORE. It's the Usagiyama way. They will break you down and feed you tasty snacks and you will not be able to resist.
- More showing her around town. She needs to meet Midori and Kanna!
- Oh yay, bathing. The fear of Choi-sama is enough to make even Dera not peep.
- lol Choi's butt.

- Angry Choi. Tooooooo cute.
- Poor Afro-kun. No love for you. Choi's fortunes are indeed accurate. And it seems to weigh on her a bit too - she clearly understood Afro's sadness.
- Especially since she knows what it's like to love someone you can't (well, I bet she will in the end) have.
- At the end it seems like she's reacting to Tamako but I wonder if that's just a misdirection and it's something in the background?

SO GOOOOOOOOD! Choi is absolutely positively utterly amazing. I looove her. Definitely one of the best episodes yet.

[something]

2. Girlfriend
歌：常盤みどり (cv：金子有希)
作詞：愛鈴／作曲：Gille Audiard／編曲：永田太郎#2 made me snicker.....:catgirl:
Could you be more of a cruel tease, Tamako Market? ;_;

[Fencedude]

Choi is amazing.

Delicious brown girl, sharp tongue, really adorable.

[Damius]

2. Girlfriend
歌：常盤みどり (cv：金子有希)
作詞：愛鈴／作曲：Gille Audiard／編曲：永田太郎#2 made me snicker.....:catgirl:
Could you be more of a cruel tease, Tamako Market? ;_;

This and they got me... I made my March order last night and this is a part of it.

[FUNiOP]

Choi was indeed a great addition. As always, seeing the entire community embrace strangers like this is always a joy to see. Poor Afro...

[FUNiOP]

We also get to see Choi's momos, making this the the most fanservicey KyoAni episode ever, I think.

Full Metal Panic! The Second Raid showed the lesbian sisters' fully uncensored nipples. Maybe not on air, though.

[Damius]

Hnnnnnnnnnnnnngggggggggggggggggg Ankoooooooooo

Poor Anko, way too many people want to do exactly that!

[Damius]

My adorableness-meter broke, i need a new one with a higher range.

Maybe you should invest more money on it and get one with no range at all!

[Damius]

- Anko-hime! She is sssooooooooooooooo cute!
- “Kawai?” You don’t need to ask the question everyone will say YES!
- Hehe… that Anko/Dera scene.
- Anko-chan is so popular.
- Oops… he can see her.
- Anko will be able to go to the museum she is so happy. ^_^
- Gold Dera.
- Or will she be able to go to the museum?
- Nope, she was not. But I have to say I love that she is still at the festival.
- Anko is so embarrassed when she realized the guys heard her yell.
- How will they make Anko get out of the closet? That’s how.

What a fantastic Anko episode. Anko is ridiculously cute!

[Fencedude]

Choi in a school uniform!

Dera on a diet!

They should just let Kanna try out her Roast Dera recipe.

[HitokiriShadow]

Oh man, School uniform Choi. Best part is that she kept her anklets and choker/neck-ring, and especially that hair-piece. Then we got to see her in a few other outfits as well. Boy, Midori sure was ecstatic at the idea of doing that.

And lots and lots of Kanna. I love Kanna so much. Hard to pick a favorite scene of her here, she had so many. Her reaction to and correction of Choi's misunderstanding was particularly cute, her evil face when explaining the purpose of the batons to Dera, "Birdminton" and so much else, all so great.

This is probably the best episode yet thanks to using a good mix of the characters, even if (and, in fact, at least partially because) Kanna dominated the episode.

[something]

Episode 8:

- Kanna wants to see Mister Dera. Could it be?
- She sneezed too! It must!
- ...Nope, no love for you, Dera. Heh I liked seeing Choi react to the sneezing. Shows Dera isn't just totally making that up.
- That birdhouse has the largest opening ever.
- Kono kono~ Yes girls please sandwich Kanna more.
- And the hole still isn't big enough.
- Dera becomes a loaf of bread. :sd:
- I looooove how stern Choi is with Dera. God she's so cute.
- Heh, nice musical cue.

- Tamako must stand strong and not spoil Dera any longer. But er, I don't think a diet means never eating ever.
- Choi go to school? YES PLEASE.
- Kanna delivers! Choi will get a uniform. Thank goodness its not those terrible pink uniforms.
- HAHAHA Kanna and Midori are cruel. And those hilarious eating faces.

- Choi is uniformed up and ready to go!
- I was about to comment on the way Choi addresses Kanna but the show did it for me. Why does she think Kanna is younger? She's shorter but not by all that much. And she's taller than Choi for sure.
- But it's fine because her blushing after realizing her mistake was adooooooorable.
- And I was about to ask about how htey managed to enroll Choi but uh, the teacher just sort of rolls with it. :sd: Usagiyama, almost as laid back as Neo Venezia.
- Heh we really need more Midori. She loves watching Dera suffer.

- The permablush kouhai remind me of a similar pair in K-ON!.
- Kanna loves messing with Dera as well. Tamako you have awesome friends.
- And she gives Choi thumbs up for getting in on the fun. =D
- Bird twirling! Birdminton!

- Midori activates her bishoujo radar! She hones in on cute outfits for Choi. Do it do it.
- Choi fashion show.
- And aww Anko wanted to go too.
- Kanna and Midori have a gift for Choi. Yay~

Next up, another Anko love episode?

I love this show~

[bear]

Episode 8:
- Kanna delivers! Choi will get a uniform. Thank goodness its not those terrible pink uniforms.

I noticed their jersey uniforms were pinkish, but the two other girls had bluish ones (first years vs second?)

[FUNiOP]

I'm still not loving this series, but the one thing it's always promised to be is cute, and it always delivers in that regard. Dera can be annoying, but seeing all the girls abuse him is fun. Kanna was great in this episode, as well as Choi. There was far too little of Shiori, though.

[EmperorBrandon]

I noticed their jersey uniforms were pinkish, but the two other girls had bluish ones (first years vs second?)
Yeah, they're probably color-coded to grade. That's how it was in K-ON!, too.

[Buckeye]

- Another day at the mochi shop, and Tamako does great work as usual. Wait, what's with that heart one?
- Tamako has huge plans for Valentine's Day, but daddy doesn't approve. It starts with blueprints for heart mochi.
- Tamako and Mochizo talk over the old-fashioned cups and strings, talking about Valentine's Day in the district.
- What a weird way to get the idea across in the shopping arcade meeting. But they are buying it.
- And to promote the event, the girls are dressed up in bunny costumes recording a commercial.
- Uh, oh! The projector is broken. But it's the bird to the rescue as he becomes one.
- There is the commercial, and then some footage from some island in the Pacific.
- And Midori and Tamako are as close as ever.

The time was right for me to begin my TAN subscription, so now I am watching this after taking a break after the first episode and have a lot of catching up to do. This episode is pretty much what I expected from KyoAni, and certainly the characters in this show are pretty colorful, especially the bird. Anyway, this whole episode about getting the district in the Valentine's Day spirit was just nice to watch, and seeing Tamako doing all that stuff was just really cute. Certainly this is one way to bring the shopping district closer even if they don't need to.

[Buckeye]

- So much for hibernating. The bird is to fat to fly and he almost broke the badminton racket.
- It's a brand new year, and this time Midori is in a different class.
- Nodoka, err, Shiori is not very sociable. And Yui, I mean, Kana needs to fix her locker.
- The bird tries and fails again. But he does get Shiori over to Tamako's shop.
- They have mochi together, dinner together, and take a bath together. She definitely is willing to open up.
- Next day, Shiori is asking the bird to thank Tamako. Something's not right here.
- And they finally connect inside a coffee shop.
- Nice try, birdie. But you just got rejected.

Nice episode here as we see this show's version of Nodoka acting more like Mio than the student council president. Shiori was acting really cute in this episode with her unsociable ways.

[Buckeye]

- It's Princess Azunyan. Nope, only in Anko's dreams.
- So much for going to the museum on Sunday. They need her help for the festival.
- Mochizu is willing to help. Not so fast, because daddy sees him as a would-be recipe thief.
- And the solution: wake up early and work through the morning. Anko does just that
- The bird statue is broken. And the bird comes by and is made the statue.
- Now, Kaoru needs help dressing the girls and happens to stumble upon Anko.
- Next job, selling Happy Mochi. And the boys return from the museum sending Anko to the closet.
- Burning fish won't get her out, but a souvenir from the museum does the trick.

Nice episode here seeing Anko having to work overtime and stuff thanks to her father being so uptight. But she can go to the museum anytime while the festival comes only once a year. Seeing the bird act as the phoenix on the top of the portable shrine was just funny. Anko was just acting cute in this episode, pretty much like Azunyan would.

[Buckeye]

- It's summer and the girls are going to the pool. Too bad Mochizo can't join them.
- Tamako is a terrible swimmer. Kanna is also doggy paddling.
- And the bird this time will help Mochizo get his feelings to Tamako across.
- Time for the school trip to the beach. And Mochizo's plan of action laid out by the bird.
- Busted. Midori won't let Mochizo get anywhere close to Tamako.
- Time for the marathon swim. Tamako's ineptitude at swimming shows.
- After resting up, it's time for some fireworks. Meanwhile, a cat is after the bird.
- Midori has loosened up a bit after the show. And the bird is chased by a dog and an eagle.

So while this episode was about swimsuits, it's even more about Mochizo. It was funny to see the bird being attacked by mother nature while on the trip. Mochizo is in love with Tamako, but Mirdori is overprotective of Tamako. Very interesting to see how this goes with the way Mochizo had been approaching things.

[Buckeye]

- Tamako's next brilliant idea is a haunted house. It sure has been quiet this summer.
- Kanna already knows the measurements and how much material is needed.
- The curse is already on. A will-o-wisp and a blood-stained man gets it started.
- Mari is ready to battle the vampires. She has the garlic, the stakes, and the holy water (which is actually sake) ready.
- Lots of "phenomena" going on in the district. And Shiori drops by with croquettes. Not so fast, my feathered friend.
- Tadashi is such a scaredy cat. But all in all, the haunted house was great.
- So the will-o-wisp and everything was Kanna's idea. That's genius for ya.
- Some girl named Choi has arrived.

That was such a great episode there seeing all these scare tactics and the way the people in the district react to them. In the end, it was all something Kanna thought up to totally freak out the adults there. And Shiori comes through here, and the bird continues to be the great comic relief character that he is. Next episode will include a visit by Choi who is there to the the bird back home where he belongs.

[Buckeye]

- Introducing this show's tanned version of Azunyan, Choi from somewhere from way down south.
- So the bird is part of the royal family and he needs to find a bride. So he plays the "I was set up" card.
- Big problem there: the bird is too fat to fly and his built-in transceiver is malfunctioning.
- Choi's fortune telling is so accurate it's scary. Of course being cute will also draw attention.
- Time for a bath with Choi. And she faints with only her butt out of the water.
- Sawako, I mean, Sayuri is getting married. Too bad, Tomio.
- To the baths again, and this time the bathhouse is closed. So it's to the house, and she faints again.
- Choi does love mochi. She'll be staying until the bird's transceiver is fixed.

Nice episode here and Choi is definitely a great addition to the class. Now Mio is dealing with young Azunyan and the tanned Azunyan here while Sawako is getting married. Alright, wrong KyoAni show here, but Choi is definitely great to be around. She may be from paradise, but she definitely fits in nicely in Tamako's neighborhood. Seeing her acting like someone who doesn't know how things work in Japan is really cute, and of course she has quite the temper (although the bird is the only one getting it) to boot.

[Buckeye]

- Dera is too big to fit in Kanna's house. Time to go on a diet.
- Don't feed the bird. Or else Kanna cooks him for dinner.
- Choi is off to school. She's got the uniform, but she is going barefoot.
- The bird is playing baton dodgeball. Gotta burn those calories.
- Considering where Choi is from, it's hatsuaki for her, as in first autumn. And she needs some new clothes.
- Those styles are too much. But the secondhand store has some really nice outfits. Too bad she's feeling the heat.
- Next day, the bird has slimmed down quite a lot from yesterday.
- Choi sure is popular in the neighborhood getting a sweater from Kanna, and now many different things from the other neighbors.

Great episode here about Choi adapting to life in a place that's completely different from her homeland. Certainly she looks cute in all those outfits and is someone who will find this place very hospitable. And of course, the bird is always funny.

[something]

Episode 9:

- Hahaha, the opening scene with Tamako's mother and father as high schoolers felt like something out of a Nichijou skit. Awesome.

- Mamedai! Fuku! Dera's diet didn't last.
- A just awakened An. So cute. And awwww her face when she asks for Tamako to set aside some nice mamedaifuku for Yuzuki.
- Choi-chan, Choi-chan~ She cooks them breakfast, while Dera makes the tea. Must be hard without hands.
- Heh, Tamako knows how to manipulate her dad, with some help from grandpa.

- Midori is the captain of the baton club, and has been corrupted by POOOOOOWER.
- Hahah, Anko totally does not care about Mocchi's problems.
- Choi doing origiami~
- Awwwww. Tamako is such a nice sister to Anko.
- Heh, Choi plays host.
- Is it just me or does Yuzuki have the derpiest look ever on his face at all times? :sd:
- Choi draw blood with origami. o_O
- Oh Anko, at such a delicate age.

- lol Mocchi trying to figure out why Anko is depressed.
- Oh, ouch. Yuzuki is transferring. (I was already spoiled on it but I don't care so whatever.)

- Huh. That woman who I literally just noticed in the OP for the first time this episode also happens to show up in the mochi pounding scene. Is she Mocchi's older sister or... ::looks it up:: oh it's his mother. Go go KyoAni milfs. I thought we'd seen his mother before briefly, but I thought I remembered someone who looked completely different.
- Mochi pounding time! Kanna is ready.
- Oh my god Choi's dance. <3
- And Kanna's dramatic mochi pounding. <3

- Awwwwwww Anko. I'll give Mocchi credit, he really cares and did try to help. But he's still kinda useless. :sd: Tamako, however, totally gets her onee-chan on and really has her act together when it comes to dealing with Anko. Such a great sister.
- Anko runs!
- Anko falls! Anime characters really can trip over anything.
- God she's so cute. Nice encouragement from Dera too.

- Midori reaallllllllly likes touching Choi. =D
- Oooooh, so I guess dad was in a band, and he's known all along that the song Tamako sings was theirs... but is too embarrassed to admit it. Until Tamako catches him red-handed with his guitar.
- Haha, and then immediately drags him out of the house, dashing off to the record store, with a whole entourage (Midori, Anko, Choi, Shiori, Kanna, Mocchi, Dera) in tow
- Ah hah, a song he wrote for his wife. And of course the record store/cafe guy has a video of it.
- Hey, mom had the same neck mole as Tamako.

Awwwwwwwww that was fucking adorable. Maaaaaan. What a fantastic episode on so so many levels.

[bear]

I didn't get the opening was the mom and dad from high school at first. I thought "Oh,, wow another cute girl?"

Episode 9:
- Choi draw blood with origami. o_O
.
It's the island's traditional martial art: origamijutsu:)


Awwwwwwwww that was fucking adorable. Maaaaaan. What a fantastic episode on so so many levels

Anko , Kanna, Choi, Midori, Shiori (her agent needs to demand more screen time), the girls mom. Wonderful. The bird didn't even bother me. His diet didn't last long (soy sauce, mirin, garlic...).

[Fencedude]

Hah. The opening bit was so a Nichijou skit.

Hands down, without question the most moe person in this show is Tamako's dad.

[Buckeye]

- A long time ago, the father and mother were fated to fall in love.
- It's Mochi Day, and Tamako and father can't agree on what they want to make. It's a great time to pound some mochi.
- Anko has a huge order of mochi for Yuzuki.
- The bird goes shopping for hot pot ingredients. He's in shape to do that, apparently.
- Yuzuki drops by, and Anko is too afraid to see him. He is moving away, after all.
- And Anko goes to see him after all. And she suffers scraped knees along the way.
- Father is playing the guitar and singing a song. The past is returning.
- So father was a rock star. Father may be embarrassed, but Tamako sure loves it.

That was a nice episode there and it was first a cute one about Anko and the relationship she has with Yuzuki, who is moving away. Then it focuses on father and his history with Tamako's mother. Seems like music was going to make it into this show, and there it is. Next episode is the culture festival where Tamako is putting on a show as a magician.

[FUNiOP]

I wasn't expecting this episode to amount to much, but it actually ended up having possibly some of my favorite moments of the series. Between Tamako's parents' past, Anko's cute little romance, and Tamako and Mochizo, even without all the feelings being returned or even recognized, there was some really nice stuff.

[HitokiriShadow]

Episode 9:
- Is it just me or does Yuzuki have the derpiest look ever on his face at all times? :sd:

I think he's a future serial killer.


- Huh. That woman who I literally just noticed in the OP for the first time this episode also happens to show up in the mochi pounding scene. Is she Mocchi's older sister or... ::looks it up:: oh it's his mother. Go go KyoAni milfs. I thought we'd seen his mother before briefly, but I thought I remembered someone who looked completely different.

I was wondering whether she was his mother or sister when she appeared in a previous episode, but I kinda figured she was his mother after this scene.


- Oooooh, so I guess dad was in a band, and he's known all along that the song Tamako sings was theirs... but is too embarrassed to admit it. Until Tamako catches him red-handed with his guitar.


I had completely forgotten about that little mystery.

[Damius]

- Time to go to the pool. The best thing about it? Girls only!
- Tamako can’t swim…
- Kanna-chan sank…
- Mochizou you are not allowed to dream about something like that.
- Dera, DO NOT assist that guy. DO NOT.
- Ok… not sure I’m a big fan of the girls’ summer uniform…
- Kanna likes long-distance swimming! Why not.
- Midori overheard Mochizou… the bird was stop by Midori!
- And then Midori/Mochizou scene… Unfortunately, I don’t think it will make Mochizou giving up on Tamako…
- Tamako said to Midori “I love you”, but that’s not the kind of love Midori wants…
- Fireworks give Tamako energy.

This episode makes me worry a lot… Sure, I hope for the impossible, Midori x Tamako, but if they can’t give it to me, please no romance at all… Because, Midori x Mochizou sure would be a DISASTER.

[HitokiriShadow]

Twins! Teleporting sempai! Aaaaaaah, whey have we not gotten more of these girls, they're so much fun. I love the twins' little forehead twirl of hair and I love Sempai bobbing up and down as she watches the performance.

Kanna continues to steal any scene she's in with just about anything she does. I particularly liked her comment about the revolution coming, a nice callback to her comment about usurping the captain throne from Midori last time.

And suddenly Tamako's mole becomes a plot point. That's pretty funny.

Also, legs. I liked how they did a good 5+ seconds showing just the girls' legs as they were talking. And not just standing still, but moving around. Then they did it again in the next episode preview.

[something]

And another HaganaiYamaNoSusumeTamako Wednesday comes to a close. Only one more of these left since Yama no Susume will end next week. ;_;

Episode 10:

- Midori is a lot-drawing champion!
- This OP is as catchy and infectious as ever.

- Oooh, a baton club senpai. And she's so totally Mikami Shiori. <3
- Poor Kanna. No firefighter acrobatics for you.
- Poor Shiori too. She joined the wrong club. ;_;
- So many pairs of talking legs!

- Choi is interested in this strange ritual.
- Ahaha, Tamako is really going for those mochi costumes...
- Silly Mocchi, Midori can do anything! Except make Tamako love her. ;_;

- ...And choreograph baton routines. Her brainstorming is so cute though. (But hey, noticed some small animation errors! Her foot briefly disappears behind the table leg even though it's in front. Then she has socks on when she kneels down to clean up, but not before or after. Yes I was watching her cuteness multiple times.)
- I most love the bit where she does an embarrassing pose and then is covering her blushing face afterward. =D
- Heh, she can do costume design though.

- Choi! And her cute little feet.
- Choi is sniffing Tamako again. Didn't she do this before?
- Poor Midori. Choreography is hard. Get Choi to help, we saw her exquisite dancing last week.
- Upside-down Dera.

- Midori is wracking her brains. Just seeing her flit around trying to figure out what to do is so enjoyable.
- And more adorable blushing. I kinda like the noticeable use of quick disconnected cuts in this episode. I don't recall such heavy use of it previously, but the timing usually works well. I think it also allows you to cram a little bit more content into 24 minutes, which is probably the real reason it's being done. :sd:

- Heh, Kanna is ruthless. She sees a stressed out Midori and her first thought is TIME FOR THE REVOLUTION!
- This time it's reversed! Shiori who runs into Midori talking to herself in the bathroom.
- Kanna doesn't hold anything lighter than a hammer. She is a consummate craftsman.
- And now it's Shiori's turn to tell Tamako and Kanna about Midori.

- Awwwww. Midori is worrying herself sick, literally. And now she's crying. ;_;
- At least she gets a hug from Tamako. Awwww.
- HAHA, that look on Kanna's face. For a second I almost thought Dera would bust out some legitimately good dance, but, well, Kanna's face says it all.
- Silly Midori, you could have relied on your friends all along.

- Performance time! And wow, nice design Midori, the outfits are really cute. Also it's weird seeing Tamako in a short skirt. I'm so used to pants or her long school skirt.
- Also please tell me they made one for Choi too...
- Aww, no. But Choi takes notice of Tamako's mole for probably the first time.
- Yay baton performance.
- And it was obvious it was coming, but Choi has finally decided that Tamako is the princess she's looking for. Sorry Choi, I don't think Tamako has any intention of leaving Usagiyama.

Great, great Midori episode.

[Buckeye]

- Time for the culture festival, and the Baton Club draws a time slot.
- Need to figure out some dance steps, and it's up to Midori.
- Idea, idea, idea, and more ideas. Midori is drawing a blank here.
- All that stress and Midori has caught a fever.
- Who would dare look at trash? They are just rejects
- That's quite the unusual source of inspiration. The bird came through with an idea.
- Time for the performance, and the Baton Club delivers.
- And Choi anoints Tamako as the prince's bride. What?

This episode is all about Midori here, as it was nice to see the girls getting together in this way. And the episode ends with Tamako suddenly becoming a princess. Things are about to get interesting here to see how Tamako handles all of this, being loved by Midori, yuri-style, by Mochizou, and now she has to sort through possibly another relationship after what Choi said.

[something]

I'm wondering what the connection between Tamako's mother and Choi's prince is going to be. I mean, there has to be one, right? Tamako's mole being a trigger for Choi and Tamako's mother having the same mole isn't likely to be a coincidence.

[FUNiOP]

Haha, that's quite the way to end the episode. It should be interesting to see how that plays out in the following episodes.

Of course, the star of the show this time was Midori. I didn't like the episode nearly as much as the previous one for many reasons, but Midori is still a very enjoyable character.

[HitokiriShadow]

Kaaaaaaaaaaaaaaannaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa (http://twitpic.com/cd0wqj), why are you (http://twitpic.com/cd0wqj) so amazing. (http://twitpic.com/cd0uwu)

Also lots of Tamako (http://twitpic.com/cd0w2w) being (http://twitpic.com/cd102e) ridiculously adorable (http://twitpic.com/cd10l8)

The show also reminds us of its biggest crime: only occasionally cruelly teasing us with Mochizou's awesome (and stunningly attractive) mother. (http://twitpic.com/cd0yna) Need a spin-off starring her.

And, uh, was that the teleporting baton club sempai at the meeting? (http://twitpic.com/cd0yyl) How odd, I'm pretty sure we never saw her there before. I also wish we got a lot more of her. And the twins. Why is this show one cour. ;_;

[superdry]

And, uh, was that the teleporting baton club sempai at the meeting? (http://twitpic.com/cd0yyl) How odd, I'm pretty sure we never saw her there before. I also wish we got a lot more of her. And the twins. Why is this show one cour. ;_;

Nope. "Teleporting baton club sempai" has longer hair in the back than the girl on the left. Go back to episode 10 after the OP to double-check.

[something]

Episode 11:

- Man I can barely even recognize a skinny Dera.
- Aww, Ouji doesn't want a bride. He wants Dera. I'll ship it.
- I can never get enough of Choi scolding Dera.
- So Dera flew. But how did Choi get to Japan? I still don't know what kind of technology this fantasy nation has. Birds are not typical video projectors...

- Dera doesn't seem convinced about Tamako. I wonder if his ambivalence has more to do with knowing that Choi has feelings for the prince.
- Tamako-sama! Yeah Tamako is totally the kind of girl who wants to be a -sama.
- Tamako Mochimazzui! Heh she makes the cutest face at that.

- Heh, I'm sorry Tamako, nobody really cares about your point cards right now. They're all too busy wither fantasizing over knowing a princess, or grieving over their loss...
- And then there's Kanna. She's just Kanna.
- Tamako is sooo adorably excited about getting that medal. It symbolizes her love for the shopping district. Aww.

- And now for a video conference with the prince.
- Support beams turn Kanna on.
- Dera you are a bad birdphone.
- Midori and Mocchi look miserable.
- So does Choi when Tamako indicates she's not playing along. Oh Choi, don't worry, you'll end up being the princess.
- Awww... deep down everyone is really scared to lose Tamako. She's so loved.

- Hah, Tamako knows how to get under dad's skin.
- Everyone at the meeting is taking this rather seriously. I wonder if they truly think Tamako would go. But even the thought of it makes them uneasy. Torn between wanting to keep her around forever and not wanting to stifle her growth.

- Tamako with glasses and hair down yaaaaaaaaay.
- OH GOD! Tamako throwing the most adorable, quietest little temper tantrum. I love how everyone is gritting their teeth trying way too hard to be considerate, but for Tamako is just looks like nobody really wants her to stay.
- Awwwwwww it's Anko's turn to be a nice sister to Tamako now.

- Then a true crisis strikes! Tamako's medal is gone! DUN DUN DUNNNNNN!
- Of course Mechya has it. He sure got there fast.

Only one episode left! Gaaaaaaaaah need more.

Today was my last HagaYamaTama Wednesday. Next week is just HagaTama. Then it's just Haga. Why do good shows end? ;_;

[Buckeye]

- How to handle being the prince's bride. Seems to be suspicious if just a sniff is all the proof.
- She's almost there. Enough points to earn the gold medal, something nobody has ever done.
- And she has earned it at last. It's a bigger joy than being the prince's bride.
- It's time to say hello to the prince, Metcha. They just greet each other before the bird is short-circuited.
- Tamako's father was acting cold. Tamako may really go through with the marriage after all.
- And he gets drunk with some hidden booze. They just want Tamako to be happy.
- It's maganekko Tamako heading off to bed. And Anko wants to sleep with her tonight. Very cute.
- Uh, oh! The medal is gone! But the prince saves the day as he just got here with it.

Nice episode here, and Tamako was just really cute in this episode, especially when she put her pajamas and glasses on. And of course, Kanna's reaction to the video was very Yui-like, which is who she is modeled for after all. One more episode to go, and I would have to think that there is no way Tamako leaves her family and friends to become the bride. If anything, she will probably get some more time to think about it since going full speed ahead like that is just going to be too much for Tamako to handle. It would be nice, though, if Choi and the prince stay over for a long time and become part of the shopping district much like what the bird has been doing.

[something]

And of course, Kanna's reaction to the video was very Yui-like, which is who she is modeled for after all.
Kana is way too low-tension and chill about life to be modeled on Yui.

[FUNiOP]

Another great way to end the episode and set up the next one. But there's only one left? Damn, this episode was really good, too. I wonder if they had any plans to make more, and if that's possible at this point.

[EmperorBrandon]

And of course, Kanna's reaction to the video was very Yui-like, which is who she is modeled for after all.
Kana is way too low-tension and chill about life to be modeled on Yui.
Indeed. I don't understand his obsession with connecting characters in this show to K-ON! characters that are nothing alike (aside from superficial resemblance, but disregarding the style similarity due to Horiguchi, none of them are really similar in that regard either. Shiori and Akiyo would be the only connection close enough to stand out to me).

[EmperorBrandon]

Nope. "Teleporting baton club sempai" has longer hair in the back than the girl on the left. Go back to episode 10 after the OP to double-check.
Ah, I thought like Hitokiri that I might have seen her last episode, but she is a different character. The senpai was named and voiced by Mikami Shiori according to ep 10 credits, but whoever this girl is, didn't appear at all in the credits for episode 11.

[something]

Another great way to end the episode and set up the next one. But there's only one left? Damn, this episode was really good, too. I wonder if they had any plans to make more, and if that's possible at this point.
I expect it was in the back of their minds ("K-ON! team reunited? Of course this will sell well enough for a sequel if we want to do one!") but it was solicited for just 12 eps from the start. Now that it's not a clear blockbuster by any stretch (I'd describe its sales week rankings so far as "tentatively not awful compared to low expectations but obviously not a hit") I'm sure any plans they may have had are far less certain.

Buuuut honestly, if I had to guess, I would be surprised if they wanted to do more than a cour regardless. I'm very curious to see if their next series is one cour as well, because I think they might be switching to more-but-shorter series. A lot of their shows so far have been two cour, and maybe they're going to move away from that.

I'm not even sure if I want a Tamako sequel, because it's accomplished what I wanted from it so far and I can't help but think that if they made a sequel, romance would get put front and center. And I'm just not sure that's what I want to see from it.

[ultimatemegax]

Buuuut honestly, if I had to guess, I would be surprised if they wanted to do more than a cour regardless. I'm very curious to see if their next series is one cour as well, because I think they might be switching to more-but-shorter series. A lot of their shows so far have been two cour, and maybe they're going to move away from that.

I'm not even sure if I want a Tamako sequel, because it's accomplished what I wanted from it so far and I can't help but think that if they made a sequel, romance would get put front and center. And I'm just not sure that's what I want to see from it.
The Yamada/Yoshida interview in Animage really solidified the idea that this was one cour. They wanted to cover the whole year in 12 episodes, so where do you go from that? Also, romance was never really on the table. Though the series is about love, it's not romantic love.

[FUNiOP]

I expect it was in the back of their minds ("K-ON! team reunited? Of course this will sell well enough for a sequel if we want to do one!") but it was solicited for just 12 eps from the start. Now that it's not a clear blockbuster by any stretch (I'd describe its sales week rankings so far as "tentatively not awful compared to low expectations but obviously not a hit") I'm sure any plans they may have had are far less certain.

Buuuut honestly, if I had to guess, I would be surprised if they wanted to do more than a cour regardless. I'm very curious to see if their next series is one cour as well, because I think they might be switching to more-but-shorter series. A lot of their shows so far have been two cour, and maybe they're going to move away from that.

I'm not even sure if I want a Tamako sequel, because it's accomplished what I wanted from it so far and I can't help but think that if they made a sequel, romance would get put front and center. And I'm just not sure that's what I want to see from it.

That's about what I thought based on the initial length and current sales. I personally wouldn't mind seeing what they'd come up with next, but I agree that they've accomplished all that was necessary.

The Yamada/Yoshida interview in Animage really solidified the idea that this was one cour. They wanted to cover the whole year in 12 episodes, so where do you go from that? Also, romance was never really on the table. Though the series is about love, it's not romantic love.

I tried to read most of those interviews but I must've missed that piece. So I guess that answers my question pretty solidly. Thanks for the confirmation.

[Damius]

- Tamako walks alone in the deserted shopping district.
- Not enough people in the shopping district? Tamako has the solution a haunted house.
- Pink uniforms… Oh well…
- Music is important to get into the mood.
- No doubt that Shiori’s snacks are better than the adult’s ones.
- They really are the three most adorable ghosts.
- Shiori, your logic is better than all the adults together.

Next time, we’ll meet a new adorable character!

[Fencedude]

Welp, that sure was the last episode.

No one gets Tamako, to the surprise of no one at all.

[something]

Episode 12:

- Babababababa bababa babababababababa~

- "I'd love for the people of the island to try it." Oooh, I think dad just heard an export opportunity...
- Tamako is getting increasingly annoyed that nobody is telling her to stay. Poor girl.
- Oooh, and then some unfortunate timing on shopkeeps taking a break reminds her of when her mother died. ;_; Goddamn that was so beautifully understated. Great great moment there. But damnit Dera, Midori was so close to hugging her... Still, Dera's silliness cheered Tamako up right away, so I can't fault him.
- Dera also does what nobody else has been able to do: clearly ask Tamako her own opinion, rather than be paranoid about saying the wrong thing. Everyone else has either been too scared or excited or otherwise invested in the outcome to really calm down and think about it. Dera has the detachment necessary to do so.

- Aww. Dera was so moved by her description of the shipping district that he wants Choi and Mechya to let ehr stay.
- Daaaaaaaaamn. For a second I thought they were going to pair off the prince with Kaoru. That would have been awesome. Though only as a joke, I'd much rather Choi get to be with him because she obviously loves him.
- And Midori collapses in relief. Oh Midori, you're so helplessly in love.

- Choi is leaving. ;_;
- Dera is not. Oh Dera, your prince can't live without you. But Dera can't live without mochi now.
- Kanna is gonna cook him for Christmas dinner. Haha even Tamako plays along. And Midori.

- Heh. Dera trys to make a cool exit but there was no way that was going to happen. :sd:
- Ffffffff Midori in that kimono, beautiful.
- Heh. I don't think Dera will ever leave.

Damnit, I'm so sad to see this show go. My #1 show of the Winter season, without a doubt. Now my two favorites are over. ;_;

[Ingraman]

Episode 12:

- "I'd love for the people of the island to try it." Oooh, I think dad just heard an export opportunity...
Franchise!!

- Oooh, and then some unfortunate timing on shopkeeps taking a break reminds her of when her mother died. ;_; Goddamn that was so beautifully understated. Great great moment there.Yeah, my eyes teared up a bit at that scene. ;_;

- Choi is leaving. ;_;Kanna loses her hammer. ^^;

[Buckeye]

- So there are talking birds like Dera in Japan. Wait, that is Dera.
- The prince is the talk of the town. The whole district is talking with him. One question at a time, please.
- Leaving her home is too much for Tamako, so she can't be the bride. At least not now.
- So it was all a big snafu, and the scent came from the flower shop. Choi messed up big time here.
- Time for the royal family to return home, with some parting gifts but not the medal.
- Somehow, the bird was able to sneak back into the shopping district.
- The bird said he would go home, but he is still here, all boxed up with flowers.
- Mochizo's birthday present for Tamako is flowers, with a surprise. And by that, Dera isn't exactly what he had in mind.

This show ended pretty much as expected out of KyoAni. There was no way Tamako was going to be the bride and leave the place she had called home for her whole life, not if it means leaving her family and friends that she had been so close to. But with the bird ditching the return trip that it sets up the possibility for another season since the bird is still freeloading. KyoAni usually has an OVA for their shows, so it will be interesting to see if and what they do about it.

Overall, it is another nice show by KyoAni, certainly with the similar feel of K-On! since this show was done by the same guys. The characters are cute and it tells a very nice story about everyday life. While it's not the exactly their best work, I still enjoyed it. There are some things that could have been done better as the storywriting wasn't exactly the best, but the characters are what this show is about for me more than anything.

[FUNiOP]

Well that ended up being my least favorite KyoAni show all the way through. But hey, it's also one more reminder that they can't actually make a bad show, because it was still plenty good.

Exploring such a diverse range of characters that populate the setting is always a nice thing for a series to do, but I really liked the idea of covering the entire 12 months of the year in its 12 episodes. Overall I think it had some extra flaws as a result, but it's still a very interesting idea and I appreciate it much more for seeing it through like that.

[stardf29]

This was a great final episode. Sure, there was absolutely no doubt as to how the whole Tamako being the prince's bride subplot would play out, but to hear how just how much the shopping arcade meant to Tamako was worth it. (That and Kanna petting her on the head.)

Aw, Choi is leaving. Guess in the end, Prince is lonely without her. I'm sure they'll make plenty of visits, though. Also, LOL @ Kanna giving a hammer as a gift. And Tamako is even willing to give up her medal... not that they would have accepted that.

And Dera tries to leave silently... and ends up inside Mochizo's birthday present to Tamako, which he finally delivers properly. That scene was simultaneously heartwarming and hilarious. Mochizo's present turned out to be much better than he prepared for... "good job, Mister", indeed. :P

Final Thoughts

I know some consider this to be one of KyoAni's weaker offerings, but honestly, I think it is still one of their better shows; not as good as Clannad, Nichijou, K-ON!, Kanon, or Chuu2, but still a top-notch show. I have many reasons why I loved this show so much. First off, the show is hilarious. Second, Kanna is awesome. And probably most importantly, this show was pretty much perfect as a nice, laid-back slice-of-life show. Sure, there were lots of fantastic elements within, but they worked, and having the show go through an entire year like it did, blended with the cuteness and humor of KyoAni, was really nice. It may not have been a particularly noteworthy KyoAni series for many, but Usagiyama will be a memorable place to me all the same. (That, or maybe I'm just still biased about Kanna.)

Final Score: 10.5/11.0 - Outstanding show.

[Damius]

- Choi is here!!!
- Tamako with glasses and her sister… adorable.
- Dera is definitely scared of Choi.
- Choi doesn’t have treasure on her… she is a treasure by herself!
- Sleepy Choi is adorable.
- A walk around town with Tamako and Choi, later on, Anko joined.
- Bath scene.
- Choi's butt. Eh.
- Choi… being angry makes you way too adorable and cute.
- Tamako is right; Dera communication system should never be fixed!

Choi is ssooooo cute and adorable!!! Amazing episode!!!

[Damius]

- Kanna sneezed…
- And with that scene, Midori and Kanna meet Choi!
- Derra will need to cut back on food…
- She said it… Choi wants to go to school too! I agree 1000%.
- Uniform acquired. Thanks Kanna!
- Indeed Choi is really cute in the uniform.
- Choi-chan is in school and she meets more classmates.
- Birdminton!
- Choi sneezed. Why are sneezes so cute in anime?
- And they gave me a Choi fashion show!
- Awww… Anko wanted to go shopping with them. She will go next time! ^_^

This show is so adorable and cute. I love it so much.

[traviskeshav]

I can see why people wouldn't necessarily have liked this show, but given what I want or expect out of anime more recently, I enjoyed it.

[Damius]

- Misunderstandings can be funny.
- A sleepy Anko is so cute.
- And then… she asks to set aside some mamedaifuku fo Yuzuki… while being embarrassed and so adorable.
- Welp, Choi-chan can prepare some delicious breakfast.
- Oh, there is a Mochi Day.
- Awwww… Tamako is so nice to Anko.
- Origami in Choi’s hand… can be dangerous.
- Anko is depressed because Yuzuki is transferring.
- The Mochi’s Ebi.
- Nice… really nice, Choi’s dance!
- Tamako easily finds the best solution for Anko! ^_^
- Anko succeeds!
- Tamako’s dad was in a band and wrote a song for Tamako’s mom.

This show gives us another so adorable episode.

[Damius]

- Midori draw golden time for the Baton Club!
- Choi’s sure is interested in that new dance.
- Midori, I’m sure you’ll think of something great.
- Anko and Tamako find Choi amazing, Choi is so embarrassed.
- Tamako and Kanna are trying to find out what’s going on with Midori.
- Shiori is here! And she told them about Midori.
- Midori worries so much that she is sick… and crying…
- But in the end, she got a Tamako's hug!
- It’s time for the performance.
- Nice outfits.
- Choice made her decision. She wants Tamako to be the princess.

Midori’s episode. This was amazing.

[Damius]

- Choi you are so adorable!
- Tamako-sama!
- And, of course… Tamako is so adorable as well.
- Choi sure is convinced Tamako is the princess.
- WOW! The face Tamako made when she is “shocked”. As being called Tamako Mochimazzui.
- Point cards are the new way Tamako found to “easily” change the subject, but…
- Kanna!!!!
- She did it! Point cards completely filled!
- Tamako is so happy, she got her medal!
- Midori, when you say “teddy bear” you mean “wife” right?
- Tama-chan is so popular. ^_^
- Thank you Anko for taking care of Tamako.
- Noooooo…. Tamako’s medal is gone…
- The prince found the medal. ^_^

This show is so adorable, so cute. I love this show so much… but this show has only one episode left…

[Damius]

- The prince doesn’t recognize Dera…
- Midori was about to hug Tamako… Oh Dera…
- Thanks to Dera, Tamako was finally able to say what she really thinks and to show her love for the shopping district.
- Choi, what about this? The princess being you!
- Midori is so relieved!
- Good bye Choi-chan you’ll be missed. ;_;
- Midori… you look so beautiful in that kimono.

And Tamako Market has ended… Another awesome show just ended.