Hey there, anime fans! Are you looking for a break from all the action-packed shonen series? Sometimes we all need a cozy, heartwarming show to unwind with after a long day. That’s where slice of life anime comes in! These shows focus on the everyday lives of relatable characters, often with a dash of humor or gentle drama.
I’ve put together a list of the 28 absolute best slice of life anime for you to check out. Whether you’re new to the genre or a longtime fan, I guarantee you’ll find some new favorites here. So grab a cup of tea, get comfy, and let’s dive into these delightful series!
1. K-On!
Studio: Kyoto Animation
Episodes: 39 (2 seasons + movie)
Year: 2009-2011
Let’s kick things off with a true classic of the genre. K-On! follows the daily lives of five high school girls in the Light Music Club. Don’t expect any intense musical performances though – these girls are more interested in eating cake and goofing off than practicing!
What makes K-On! special is its incredible charm. The characters are lovable and their friendships feel so genuine. It’s the kind of show that just puts a smile on your face. Plus, the animation from Kyoto Animation is absolutely gorgeous.
If you’re looking for a feel-good anime that’s light on plot but heavy on fun, K-On! is the perfect place to start.
2. Barakamon
Studio: Kinema Citrus
Episodes: 12
Year: 2014
Barakamon tells the story of Seishu Handa, a young calligrapher who moves to a rural island to find inspiration. There, he befriends the quirky locals, especially an energetic little girl named Naru.
This fish-out-of-water comedy is absolutely delightful. Watching the uptight Handa learn to loosen up thanks to his new friends is both hilarious and heartwarming. The island setting is beautifully portrayed, really making you feel like you’re there.
Barakamon is a wonderful reminder to slow down and appreciate the simple things in life. It’s the perfect anime to watch when you need to de-stress.
3. Usagi Drop
Studio: Production I.G
Episodes: 11
Year: 2011
When 30-year-old Daikichi attends his grandfather’s funeral, he discovers the old man had an illegitimate 6-year-old daughter named Rin. With no one else willing to take her in, Daikichi impulsively decides to become Rin’s guardian.
Usagi Drop is an incredibly sweet and mature look at parenthood. Watching Daikichi fumble his way through raising Rin is both funny and touching. Their growing bond feels so authentic and will melt your heart.
Fair warning – you might want to skip the manga ending and just enjoy the anime’s more wholesome conclusion!
4. Non Non Biyori
Studio: Silver Link
Episodes: 24 (2 seasons)
Year: 2013-2015
Welcome to the countryside! Non Non Biyori follows the laid-back lives of four girls in a tiny rural village. There’s not much to do besides hang out at the candy store or play in the fields, but these girls always find ways to have fun.
This is the ultimate relaxation anime. The beautiful scenery and soothing music create such a peaceful atmosphere. It’s like taking a vacation to the countryside without leaving your couch.
If you need something to help you unwind after a stressful day, put on an episode of Non Non Biyori. You’ll feel your worries melt away.
5. Mushishi
Studio: Artland
Episodes: 26 (2 seasons + specials)
Year: 2005-2014
For a more mature and atmospheric slice of life, look no further than Mushishi. This series follows Ginko, a traveling expert on mysterious creatures called Mushi. Each episode sees him helping people affected by these supernatural beings.
Mushishi has a unique, dreamlike quality. The stories are often bittersweet, exploring themes of nature, tradition, and the human condition. It’s a show that really makes you think.
While not as lighthearted as some other entries on this list, Mushishi is perfect for those who want a more contemplative slice of life experience.
6. Aria
Studio: Hal Film Maker
Episodes: 52 (3 seasons)
Year: 2005-2008
Imagine Venice… but on Mars! That’s the setting for Aria, which follows a group of young women training to become gondoliers (called Undines) in the city of Neo-Venezia.
Aria is the definition of comfy anime. The pacing is slow and relaxed, letting you soak in the beautiful scenery and gentle character interactions. It’s a show about finding joy in your work and appreciating the little moments in life.
If you’re looking for excitement, look elsewhere. But if you want to feel like you’re on a peaceful vacation, Aria is pure bliss.
7. Yuru Camp△
Studio: C-Station
Episodes: 25 (2 seasons)
Year: 2018-2021
Who knew camping could be so cozy? Yuru Camp△ (also known as Laid-Back Camp) follows a group of high school girls who love to go camping. That’s… pretty much the whole plot!
What makes this show special is its incredible attention to detail. You’ll learn all about different camping gear and techniques. The scenery is absolutely stunning, really capturing the beauty of the great outdoors.
Yuru Camp△ will make you want to bundle up in a warm blanket and sip hot cocoa. It’s the perfect show for a cold winter night.
8. Natsume’s Book of Friends
Studio: Brain’s Base
Episodes: 74 (6 seasons)
Year: 2008-2017
Takashi Natsume can see yokai (supernatural creatures), a gift that’s caused him nothing but trouble. He inherits his grandmother’s “Book of Friends,” which contains the names of yokai she defeated. Now Natsume works to return those names while dealing with various spirits.
While there is some light supernatural action, Natsume’s Book of Friends is primarily a gentle, character-driven story. It’s about Natsume learning to open up to others and find his place in the world.
This series has a wonderful bittersweet quality. It can be melancholy at times, but ultimately leaves you with a warm, hopeful feeling.
9. Flying Witch
Studio: J.C.Staff
Episodes: 12
Year: 2016
Makoto Kowata is a young witch who moves to the countryside to complete her training. There, she lives with her relatives and has various magical misadventures.
Flying Witch is an absolute delight. The magic in this world is subtle and whimsical rather than flashy. Watching Makoto interact with both magical beings and normal humans is always entertaining.
This is a very laid-back show with a great sense of humor. If you like the idea of a more realistic take on a “witch slice of life,” definitely give Flying Witch a try.
10. Sweetness & Lightning
Studio: TMS Entertainment
Episodes: 12
Year: 2016
After losing his wife, math teacher Kouhei Inuzuka struggles to care for his young daughter Tsumugi. With the help of his student Kotori, he learns to cook, creating delicious meals and precious memories with Tsumugi.
Sweetness & Lightning is an incredibly heartwarming show about the bonds between parent and child. Watching Kouhei and Tsumugi grow closer through cooking is so sweet. Plus, all the food looks amazing – don’t watch this one hungry!
This series tackles some heavier themes like grief, but overall it’s a feel-good story that will leave you smiling.
11. Hyouka
Studio: Kyoto Animation
Episodes: 22
Year: 2012
Hotaro Oreki just wants to conserve energy and live an easy life. But when he joins the Classic Literature Club to appease his sister, he gets dragged into solving various mysteries by the curious Eru Chitanda.
While technically a mystery series, Hyouka is really more of a character study. The mysteries are low-stakes and serve mainly to develop the relationships between the main cast. The animation is absolutely stunning, with Kyoto Animation flexing their artistic muscles.
If you like your slice of life with a bit more plot and some light mystery elements, Hyouka is a must-watch.
12. Gintama
Studio: Sunrise
Episodes: 367 (multiple seasons)
Year: 2006-2018
Okay, hear me out – I know Gintama is primarily known as a comedy/action series. But at its core, it’s really a slice of life show about the wacky adventures of the Odd Jobs crew. It just happens to be set in an alternate history where aliens have taken over feudal Japan.
What makes Gintama special is how it can swing from hilarious comedy to heartfelt drama at the drop of a hat. The character relationships feel so genuine, and you really grow to love the huge cast over time.
While not a traditional slice of life, Gintama captures the spirit of the genre in its own unique way. Just be prepared for some crude humor along with the heartwarming moments!
13. A Place Further Than the Universe
Studio: Madhouse
Episodes: 13
Year: 2018
High schooler Mari Tamaki wants to make the most of her youth, but she’s too afraid to take any risks. That changes when she meets Shirase Kobuchizawa, a girl determined to travel to Antarctica to find her missing mother.
This is a story about friendship and stepping outside your comfort zone. Watching these girls work towards their seemingly impossible goal is incredibly inspiring. It manages to be both fun and deeply emotional.
A Place Further Than the Universe is a reminder that it’s never too late to chase your dreams. It’s the perfect show to watch if you need some motivation in your life.
14. Silver Spoon
Studio: A-1 Pictures
Episodes: 22 (2 seasons)
Year: 2013-2014
City boy Yuugo Hachiken enrolls in an agricultural high school to escape the academic pressures of his parents. There, he has to adjust to the realities of farm life while figuring out what he wants to do with his future.
Silver Spoon offers a fascinating look at modern farming and animal husbandry. It doesn’t shy away from some of the harsher realities, but it’s ultimately an uplifting story about finding your passion. The character growth is excellent, and there’s a sweet romance subplot too.
If you’re interested in food production or just want to watch a great coming-of-age story, definitely check out Silver Spoon.
15. Shirobako
Studio: P.A. Works
Episodes: 24
Year: 2014-2015
Ever wonder how anime is made? Shirobako follows five friends working in the anime industry, showing the ups and downs of production. It’s like a slice of life about making slice of life!
This series offers a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at anime creation. It can be quite dramatic at times, showing the stress and tight deadlines involved. But it’s also a celebration of the passion that goes into making the shows we love.
Shirobako is a must-watch for any serious anime fan. You’ll never look at credits the same way again!
16. Tanaka-kun is Always Listless
Studio: Silver Link
Episodes: 12
Year: 2016
Tanaka is a high school boy who just wants to sleep all day. His friend Ohta helps him navigate daily life while dealing with Tanaka’s extreme laziness.
This is peak comfy anime. Tanaka’s deadpan reactions to everything are hilarious, and watching the energetic side characters try to deal with him is always entertaining. The pastel color palette and chill music add to the relaxed vibe.
If you’re looking for a low-energy protagonist to relate to, Tanaka-kun is Always Listless is your show!
17. Kimi ni Todoke
Studio: Production I.G
Episodes: 37 (2 seasons)
Year: 2009-2011
Sawako Kuronuma’s creepy appearance has made her an outcast, despite her kind nature. But when the popular Shota Kazehaya starts talking to her, she slowly begins to make friends and come out of her shell.
This is one of the sweetest high school romances out there. Sawako’s social awkwardness is so relatable, and watching her gradually open up is incredibly rewarding. The supporting cast is great too, avoiding a lot of typical shoujo drama tropes.
If you want a slice of life with a heavy dose of romance, Kimi ni Todoke will make your heart melt.
18. Nichijou
Studio: Kyoto Animation
Episodes: 26
Year: 2011
Nichijou (which means “everyday life”) follows the surreal misadventures of a group of high school girls… oh, and there’s also a child scientist and her robot.
This show is absolutely bonkers in the best way possible. It takes mundane situations and cranks them up to 11 with over-the-top reactions and absurd humor. The animation is incredible, with Kyoto Animation really flexing their skills.
Nichijou isn’t for everyone, but if you like weird, off-the-wall comedy, you’re in for a treat.
19. Barakamon
Studio: Kinema Citrus
Episodes: 12
Year: 2014
A young calligrapher named Seishuu Handa moves to a rural island to find inspiration after punching an art critic. There, he befriends the quirky locals and learns to loosen up.
Barakamon is an absolute delight. The culture clash between city boy Handa and the laid-back islanders leads to plenty of funny moments. But it’s also a heartwarming story about finding yourself and appreciating the simple things in life.
This is the perfect show to watch when you need to de-stress. The beautiful island scenery and charming characters will melt your worries away.
20. Natsume’s Book of Friends
Studio: Brain’s Base
Episodes: 74 (6 seasons)
Year: 2008-2017
Takashi Natsume can see yokai (supernatural spirits), an ability that’s caused him nothing but trouble. He inherits his grandmother’s “Book of Friends,” which contains the names of yokai she defeated. Now Natsume works to return those names while dealing with various spirits.
While there is some light supernatural action, Natsume’s Book of Friends is primarily a gentle, character-driven story. It’s about Natsume learning to open up to others and find his place in the world.
This series has a wonderful bittersweet quality. It can be melancholy at times, but ultimately leaves you with a warm, hopeful feeling.
21. Laid-Back Camp
Studio: C-Station
Episodes: 25 (2 seasons)
Year: 2018-2021
A group of high school girls bond over their love of camping, exploring various campgrounds around Japan.
Laid-Back Camp (also known as Yuru Camp△) is the definition of comfy anime. The show goes into great detail about camping gear and techniques, making you want to get out in nature yourself. The scenery is absolutely gorgeous too.
This is the perfect show to watch on a cold winter night. It’ll make you want to bundle up in a warm blanket and sip some hot cocoa.
22. March Comes in Like a Lion
Studio: Shaft
Episodes: 44 (2 seasons)
Year: 2016-2018
Rei Kiriyama is a teenage professional shogi (Japanese chess) player struggling with depression. As he navigates the competitive shogi world, he bonds with a family of sisters who help him come out of his shell.
This is a more serious and dramatic slice of life, dealing with heavy themes like mental health and found family. The unique visual style from Shaft studio perfectly captures Rei’s emotional state. But there are also plenty of lighthearted, heartwarming moments to balance things out.
March Comes in Like a Lion is a beautiful exploration of healing and personal growth. It’s a must-watch for anyone who appreciates a more mature slice of life story.
23. Azumanga Daioh
Studio: J.C.Staff
Episodes: 26
Year: 2002
Azumanga Daioh follows the everyday lives of six high school girls and their teachers. That’s pretty much the entire plot!
This series is often considered one of the pioneers of the “cute girls doing cute things” subgenre. The humor is quirky and often absurd, with a lot of it coming from the characters’ distinct personalities bouncing off each other.
While it might feel a bit dated compared to more modern slice of life shows, Azumanga Daioh still holds up as a fun, lighthearted series. It’s a great pick if you want some early 2000s nostalgia.
24. Honey and Clover
Studio: J.C.Staff
Episodes: 36 (2 seasons)
Year: 2005-2006
Set in an art college, Honey and Clover follows a group of students as they navigate friendship, love, and finding their place in the world.
This is a more mature slice of life, dealing with the uncertainties of early adulthood. The characters feel incredibly real, each with their own flaws and struggles. It perfectly captures that bittersweet feeling of growing up and moving on.
If you’re looking for a slice of life that leans more towards drama and romance, Honey and Clover is a beautiful, introspective series.
25. Lucky Star
Studio: Kyoto Animation
Episodes: 24
Year: 2007
Lucky Star is all about the everyday lives of four high school girls, with a focus on otaku culture and plenty of pop culture references.
This show is basically just cute girls hanging out and having silly conversations. It’s not for everyone – the humor can be pretty niche and the pacing is very slow. But if you’re an anime fan looking for some meta humor and relatable otaku moments, it’s a lot of fun.
Lucky Star has become a bit of a cult classic in the slice of life genre. Give it a try if you want something quirky and distinctly “anime.”
26. Tamako Market
Studio: Kyoto Animation
Episodes: 12 (+ movie)
Year: 2013
Tamako Kitashirakawa lives in a close-knit shopping district where her family runs a mochi shop. Her ordinary life gets a bit more exciting when a talking bird shows up looking for a bride for his prince.
Tamako Market is an incredibly charming show. The shopping district feels so alive, with a great cast of quirky side characters. While there is a light fantasy element with the talking bird, it’s mostly about Tamako’s everyday life and relationships.
This series is like a warm hug. It’s comforting, sweet, and will leave you with a smile on your face.
27. Haibane Renmei
Studio: Radix
Episodes: 13
Year: 2002
In a mysterious walled city, beings called Haibane are born from cocoons with no memories of their past lives. The story follows a newly born Haibane named Rakka as she adjusts to life in this strange world.
Haibane Renmei is a unique blend of slice of life and fantasy. While it follows the Haibane’s daily lives, there’s always an undercurrent of mystery about the nature of their world. It deals with heavy themes like sin, forgiveness, and purpose.
This isn’t a lighthearted, comfy slice of life. But if you want something more philosophical that will really make you think, Haibane Renmei is a beautiful, melancholy series.
28. Hidamari Sketch
Studio: Shaft
Episodes: 60 (4 seasons + specials)
Year: 2007-2013
Hidamari Sketch follows the everyday lives of a group of girls attending an art high school. They all live in the same apartment complex across from their school.
This is a very laid-back, comfy slice of life. There’s not much in the way of plot – it’s mostly just the girls hanging out, working on art projects, and having fun. The Shaft studio’s unique visual style adds a lot of charm to the simple premise.
If you’re looking for a relaxing show with a focus on art and creativity, Hidamari Sketch is a delightful choice.
Conclusion
Slice of life anime reminds us that there’s beauty and meaning in the everyday moments we often take for granted. These shows can make us laugh, cry, and see the world in a new light – all without relying on epic battles or world-ending stakes.
Whether you’re a longtime fan of the genre or just dipping your toes in, I hope this list has given you some new shows to check out. From the comfy camping of Yuru Camp△ to the bittersweet growing pains of March Comes in Like a Lion, there’s a slice of life anime out there for everyone.
So the next time you need a break from the chaos of the real world (or the chaos of more action-packed anime), why not settle in with one of these wonderful slice of life series? You might just find yourself appreciating the little things in life a bit more.
Happy watching, and remember – sometimes the most extraordinary stories are found in the most ordinary moments!
