User reviews

describing the meaning of mushi-s without emerging some false ezoteric- extraterrestial blabla is almost impossible, probably thats why this masterpiece of anime remained quite unknown. each episode is a different hymn of life. amazingly visualized, breathtaking beauty of life, as it flows mysteriously and appear in different manifestation, like animals, plants, and mushis creating a wonderful and complex ecology. a scratch on the balance of lifeforms symbiosis results strange, unusual phenomenons, that can be cured by the Mushi-shi, a kind of para-doctor who is destined to smoke (thc) in order to keep mushis away from himself. and the atmosphere! it just picks you up from the world around for 23 minutes, and shows some real values using the average, common people to show the greatness of humans, and mushis, and above all: life. cheesy, cheesy, but if you watch, you wont have other options than agree:)

MUSHISHI?! How on Earth did I end up here, smack bang in a middle of this wide-eyed& reason-free land taken over by some mysterious creatures, called sweetly but completely unlikely, errr - "Mushi"?.. Not exactly Fullmetal Alchemist, or Ghost In The Shell, I knew that before I even started watching, ahem, MUSHISHI, but I thought I'll give it a go (too scared to watch El Orfanato tonight anyways, what with all the April's rain beating against the window panes, and all). Half way through the first episode (23 minutes or so each, btw, including the obligatory long sing-along intro) and I knew I was caught hook line and sinker on the simple but haunting beauty of the whole thing. Watched 10 episodes by now, head filled with strange yet strangely believable, and, um, highly desirable world of Mushishi, with its magical scenery, just-so characters and non-judgemental story lines delivered with quiet ease and confidence by someone who knows what they are talking about. Unmissable.

If you're looking for an anime with quick-paced action and loads of screaming and fan-service, look elsewhere. If you seek an engrossing anime with meaning and a certain "sentimental" charm, Mushishi is the deal. While there's nothing totally wrong with the former type of anime, Mushishi really sets itself apart from the others - with a very melodic and abrupt opening, calm atmosphere and music throughout the show, as well as minimal dialogue that is quite monotone.

The story is a very interesting one that explores the world inhabited by creatures dubbed "Mushi", which surround us and are much more complex than any standard organism. We are introduced to an enigmatic man nicknamed "Ginko", who is a self-proclaimed "Mushi master" and seems to possess a considerable understanding of these perplexing creatures. Each episode is standalone and the series does not have any discernible ending, but this is a huge part of the charm of the series and that allows it to be easily picked up from any point. In each episode, Ginko meets individuals who have been affected by the Mushi in some way.

The dub is surprisingly great and lacks the melodramatic and over-the-top voice acting that other anime tend to have, so I would definitely recommend it just as much as the original. This is a great watch for viewers of virtually any age. What's more? It's great for stress and insomnia.

What can I say about a show like Mushishi? All you really need to know is if you want a calm/serene experience with some of the most beautiful pieces of music anime has to offer then this show is made for you. If, like me, you are tired of the character tropes most anime use these days, then Mushishi will be a breath of fresh air because every character here acts like a normal human being. The best compliment I can give Mushishi is that it is like a nature documentary that you will never forget.

Mushi-Shi is by far one of my favorite animes. It follows Ginko the mushi master who travels between villages and helps people with mushi problems wherever he goes. In each episode he encounters new characters and their mushi problems. Each episode is a self contained story that rarely is ever mentioned again. The lack of an over-arching plot should be bothersome, but somehow Mushi-Shi makes it work. By avoiding a season-long quest and plot, Mushi-Shi invests itself fully into each episode. This creates more focus on the plot and characters unique to each episode, and ultimately makes each episode extremely satisfying to watch (most likely because the audience doesn't have to worry about saving the world or some other sort of season-long quest in the back of their minds).

Besides Ginko, other characters rarely reappear. Despite this, Mushi-Shi manages to makes memorable and compelling characters. The way the show treats its female characters is especially notable. The female characters are never sexualized, pushed out of the action, or poorly characterized. They get the same treatment as the male characters. Mushi-Shi always makes sure to explain enough about its characters for them to feel realistic in their situations, but always holds back enough information to keep a mysterious tone.

The soundtrack for Mushi-Shi is perfect. It feels calm, mysterious, and chilling all at once to fit with the strange situations Ginko faces. It contributes a lot to this anime's unique feel.

Though Mushi-Shi may feel a bit slow compared to other popular animes, it has a way of sucking you into Ginko's strange mushi-filled world. I found it a refreshing change of pace and an enjoyable adventure.

I am so thankful to have found Mushishi. The storytelling in each episode is masterfully thoughtful, creative and calm. The series isn't flashy, nor does it grab for your attention with action and fighting (don't get me wrong, I love a good anime battle just as much as anyone else), However, despite its simplicity, I find each story deeply thoughtful, containing themes which urge viewers to slow down and really think deliberately. In short, I would recommend this anime to anyone and everyone.

I find Mushishi NOT to be boring but i view it as the MOST boring anime(but not sure if manga) ever. The sheer commitment to no service of any kind to the reader/viewer has to be admired ! There is only deep storytelling and the beauty of nature nothing more. The mangaka had a vision to tell and did't care about the reader one bit. Ether you get on the slowest train if all or you go home. A friend of mine i now forced to watch the series described it as gently walking through a forest. I couldn't describe it better. 10/10 and the best Mono no aware of all. The new Mushishi volume is identical to the two sisters episode 11 and 12(or special if you like) from season 2 by the way.

For all those who are shaking down anime to see what it has to offer, you won't find much better than Mushi-Shi. This anime will change the way you see the world and interact with people and nature in day to day life - it is that powerful. For the reviews that state this anime was dull, all I can say is: 'some people can see Mushi, and some people cannot, you are those unfortunate people who cannot'....

What a beautiful inspirational piece of art. Thanks, Ginko.

Mushi-shi is like a fine wine that must be taken in with small sips at a time. With each episode, you will be left afterwards relishing apart the components of it's particular curated taste. It is the antithesis of current shounen anime directed at audiences with short attention spans. The music that accompanies this piece is ethereal and adds to the whimsical nature of this show. Make sure you liberate yourself of distractions and worries before watching this series and enjoy become engulfed in the world of Mushi-shi.

The stories pull you in with their calm sounds and imagery, but there is a sense of something unsettling just beneath the surface. It makes you feel like you've been in the forest. It's been a while since I've seen it, and I keep searching for it after it was taken off Netflix. So it has stuck with me, in a good way. Watch this when you're feeling disconnected from nature, or anytime to enjoy the art of this creation.

I absolutely love this :) it leaves you feeling the same way some Studio Ghibli does. It's gentle and full of wonder, yet a little dark in places but beautifully spiritual. I love the artwork, the landscapes etc. really nice.

I totally recommend it.

A mind-blowing, and beautiful anime series. Not very typical in terms of what most would expect from an anime, yet it has proved itself to be a masterpiece nonetheless. The pacing is slow, and there isn't a lot of action, yet it turns out to be very gripping and suspenseful nonetheless.

Story: Episodic, without any type of overall link between the different encounters of the protagonist other than the protagonist himself and the occasional explanations about some of the phenomenon throughout the show (and some characters). Yet, each and ever episode contains its own individual story that all prove to be very gripping, and often somber. Each episode presents different characters from all around the regions Ginko travels to, and each has their own issue that is Mushi-related. Many of these stories are somewhat uplifting, yet often times very tragic and thought-provoking. The layout isn't one that I would usually be in to, yet it proves to work masterfully so. The many twists and turns the episodes take leave the viewer at the edge of their seat and constantly engaged even if the show isn't super fast-paced and action-packed.

Art: The artwork is often very beautiful. The scenery is amazing and certain sequences just look incredible. Many of the human characters are hard to distinguish at times, so there is less emphasis on human faces and more so on the surroundings and Mushi. Which ultimately ends up looking good nevertheless.

Sound: Good usage of sound. Lovely intro and outro music, very somber and alluring. The voice acting was very suiting for all the characters. The sound ultimately creates the type of atmosphere the show would intend for with each given situation.

Character: Ginko is an amazing protagonist. A very mysterious and intelligent wanderer that truly shows how much he values life and learning. He isn't infallible, yet overcomes many obstacles with a realistic approach that doesn't leave the viewer with a huge sense of disbelief. The pragmatic ways he approaches each obstacle makes him a lot more enjoyable, and the way he perceives the world and challenges around him are at many times very compelling. Well-written character with quite a bit of depth. The other characters introduced can be very brash, other times tragic, or many other things across the spectrum which works well for each of the scenarios and situations in each episode. Most of them are also very compelling in their circumstance and have a lot to offer for the message that the episode in question is trying to convey.

Enjoyment: For me, it was hugely enjoyable. Very thought-provoking and beautiful. The pacing was wonderful. I didn't find myself counting down the minutes before each episode was finished because of how engaging the show can be. Many of the episodes had me dwell on them for a good time afterwards. There are many moments that are hugely emotional, and many that are quite philosophical.

Overall: Fantastic and outstanding show. A masterpiece. Wonderfully written and well-thought. A true gem in the anime world, as well as the world of entertainment in general. Whether a fan of anime or not, one could find so many reasons to adore this series and be captivated by it.

"Feeling myself so strongly seduced by both the light and the darkness is something that I never want to forget..." - Yuki Urushibara, author of the Mushishi manga

The Japanese anime series "Mushishi" has a very special place in my heart, so I wanted to dedicate several lines about it since a long time. But it took me a second look at the old series and a fresh first view of the new series to be able to get to the point of writing about it. And now I reconnect with the real idea behind the emotion which pushed me to explore this beautiful and emotional piece of Japanese animation. The true mystery of life is life itself. Something inexplicable, something controversial, but still engaging and profound. The Japanese folklore is truly an amazing source of bright inspiration for the author Yuki Urushibara. And we can clearly feel why.

It is not important how we get it - it is interesting that no matter of our own level of perception, we all, the viewers understand emotionally every chapter, every episode of this journey through the people and their life between the darkness and the light. Each story is standing alone and is yet sufficient by itself. Each character doesn't need a prolonged back story. We see and hear and feel the sensation and connect to the human feelings presented to us.

Mythological creatures called Mushi represent the eons old human beliefs. We as a species have always, are always and will always try to explain the world around us through something magical and inexplicable. Each and every event and experience in our lives (no matter how bright or dark it is) is perceived not through the sense, but via the heart and the soul. The imagery is so simple..., but yet it is enchanting. We as viewers do not know how, but we feel sympathy to the heroes in each story, because they live like us and have experience so similar to the real life that we simply accept through out hearts.

And here we come to the conclusion that this both naturalistic and imaginary style of representing life is an elegant symbol of humanism. We all value the flow of life which sometimes really feels surrealistic. And this thought makes us feel more comfortable living it, doesn't it?

One of the best anime I have ever had the pleasure to watch.

I would preface this with a simple, "Brilliant", if I didn't have to write more lines...

One of the best anime I've seen in my entire life, I'm looking for the DVD version now, bc I need it.

MUSHISHI (2005-2014) is one of the greatest, most chillest, animes ever made, drawing from the seemingly endless and abundantly rich bulk of Japanese folklore and mythology. While it weaves together many fascinating stories, it also haunts with its nostalgic subtleties and exquisite art and music, creating an altogether unique and wholly original atmosphere. The stories are both otherworldly and yet so raw and human. Earthy, in many ways.

"Ginko is an expert travelling around to investigate a primeval life-form, the "Mushi," and helping people with Mushi-related supernatural problems."

Overall, Mushishi is a one of a kind gem, so very moving, unforgettable and poignant. Part fairy story, part tale of a wanderer... this series is full of heart and soul. Heart-warming and sweet, it tenderly drags you in, deeper and deeper into each new story. Follow Ginko on his haunting and wonderous travels, as he assists those in need. The story, art and music are simply superb. This is a highly recommendable series to watch. This series will stick with you for a very long time.

This show is really hard to explain. It is structured like a series of short stories, each with its own set of characters and events; there are only a few recurring characters. The character whom we see in every episode is a Mushi-shi named Ginko. Mushi-shi are basically wandering spiritual doctors who treat patients afflicted by unexplainable phenomena. The name given to the unseen life forms is "mushi".

The show focuses on the unseen world of microscopic organisms, and the spiritual significance of nature. It can help one to appreciate and become more aware of the natural world around us, both its beauty and its cruelty. This show is what I would call a hidden gem. It is such a simple and beautiful collection of stories. The stories are all inspired by Japanese folklore, fairy tales, and legends. Many of the stories also ask interesting moral questions.

If you thought Miyazaki's films exuded Shinto philosophy, this show doesn't exist without it. While every story is self-contained, they all share the same philosophy of harmony between man and nature in a world that often feels that these two things are opposed. It is a wonderful symphony that unites man and nature.

While I understand that this show is not for everyone, as it is not linear, there is no action (as most understand the term), and the stories are meant to be thought about rather than to entertain, I found it to be relaxing, thought-provoking, and an enjoyable journey. The painted backgrounds are profoundly beautiful and the animation is superb. Just for the slow beautiful visuals alone, I would recommend this show.