Ultimate Compilation: 25 Most Relaxing Slice-Of-Life Anime to Unwind Your Soul

Summary

Slice-of-life anime shows the small intricacies of day-to-day life, providing a relaxing and affirming escape from the real world.

These anime series explore diverse settings, including school life, city life, or rural life, and may even incorporate elements of mysticism. The finest slice-of-life anime offer a tranquil atmosphere, enabling viewers to escape their worries and embrace the soothing and therapeutic aspects of the narratives.

Although action and drama may be captivating, some of the finest anime are those that belong to the slice-of-life genre. Slice-of-life plays a crucial role in anime, as it portrays the subtle intricacies of daily life, providing an affirming experience. There are times when, after a challenging day, nothing compares to relaxing with an exceptional slice-of-life anime.

The slice-of-life genre is incredibly diverse. It covers various aspects such as school life, urban living, rural communities, and even explores a hint of mysticism. These series go beyond simplicity and possess a soothing quality that can be almost therapeutic. The most captivating laid-back slice-of-life anime offer a sense of peace that allows fans to momentarily forget their worries and escape from the world around them. And sometimes, that's exactly what they need.

20 Silver Spoon

Silver Spoon, an anime adaptation of the manga by Hiromu Arakawa, the creator of Fullmetal Alchemist, tells the story of Yuugo Hachiken, a young man who moves from the city to a rural town after failing his high school entrance exams. Unlike the action-packed Fullmetal Alchemist, Silver Spoon draws inspiration from Arakawa's own upbringing on a farm. While the series may be different in theme, it shares Arakawa's talent for developing captivating characters, making the cast of Silver Spoon endlessly entertaining.

19 Natsume's Book of Friends

The premise of Natsume's Book of Friends revolves around a young man named Natsume who possesses the ability to communicate with yokai, supernatural entities. Following the passing of his grandmother, Natsume inherits a highly coveted book that contains the names of over a hundred yokai once under his grandmother's control. Driven by his desire to emancipate each spirit listed in the book, enabling them to transition peacefully into the afterlife, Natsume embarks on a personal mission. Despite encountering some malevolent yokai along the way, Natsume's Book of Friends predominantly focuses on serene depictions of nature and the healing process. Surprisingly, this ghost and spirit-themed anime remarkably qualifies as a laid-back and captivating slice-of-life series.

18 Komi Can't Communicate

The focus of Komi Can't Communicate centers around a high school girl named Komi who gains popularity thanks to her outwardly calm and beautiful appearance. However, unbeknownst to many, Komi's composed demeanor stems from her struggles with communication. Joined by an ordinary boy named Hitohito Tadano, Komi sets out on a mission to overcome her anxiety and befriend 100 people. While the manga addresses Komi's anxiety and communication difficulties, it ultimately delivers an optimistic and inspiring narrative as readers witness her gradual growth in social confidence.

17 Nichijou - My Ordinary Life

Nichijou, a delightful anime series, embraces the lighter side of mundane everyday life with its amusing and lighthearted approach. Set in a small town, this slice-of-life classic follows a charming group of girls as they navigate the whimsical adventures of their daily routines. What sets Nichijou apart is its brilliant utilization of animation to deliver its comedic punchlines. In addition to witty dialogue and situational humor, the series makes clever use of visual gags that are uproariously entertaining. When it comes to seeking out enjoyable and comedic slice-of-life anime, Nichijou is undoubtedly a fantastic choice that will not disappoint fans.

16 Do It Yourself!!

Set in near-future Japan, Do It Yourself!! is an exciting addition to the fall 2022 lineup. The captivating storyline revolves around Serufu Yua, a charmingly clumsy teenager who embarks on a new adventure by joining her school's DIY club. After a fateful encounter with Rei, the club's president, Serufu is eager to explore the world of creativity and innovation. Boasting a distinctive and visually stunning style, Do It Yourself!! features an ensemble cast of unforgettable characters. The series beautifully portrays the blossoming friendships within the club, while also delving into the dynamics between Serufu and her childhood best friend and next-door neighbor, Miku. Alongside the heartwarming and lighthearted moments, Do It Yourself!! showcases the delightful antics of Serufu's beloved pets, adding an extra layer of charm to each episode.

15 Kiyo In Kyoto: From The Maiko House

Kiyo in Kyoto follows the story of childhood best friends Kiyo and Sumire, who relocated to Kyoto with the goal of becoming trainee geisha, also known as maiko. However, their journey took an unexpected turn. While Sumire excelled in her training, Kiyo faced difficulties and eventually had to leave. Nevertheless, Kiyo found solace in her newfound talent as the maiko house's cook. In this captivating series, both friends thrive in their respective roles, providing viewers with authentic glimpses into the maiko lifestyle and the art of Japanese cuisine.

14 Deaimon: Recipe For Happiness

Upon Nagomu Irino's return to his family's traditional sweet shop after years away, he discovers a new addition to his family, a young girl named Itsuka, who is set to inherit the shop in his place. What follows is a captivating competition between Nagomu and Itsuka, as they both strive to prove their capability in managing the store. Along this journey, they develop a heartwarming bond resembling that of siblings. Deaimon beautifully showcases the artistry behind crafting wagashi, the delightful traditional Japanese confectioneries, while also illustrating the transformative power of forging unexpected connections.

13 Wakakozake

Despite its short duration, with each episode only lasting two minutes, Wakakozake flawlessly captures the sensation of indulging in comfort food. In Wakakozake, viewers follow the protagonist, Wakako Murasaki, a woman in her mid-twenties juggling a demanding career, as she unwinds after work by exploring local restaurants and food establishments. Once there, she selects dishes that catch her eye and pairs them with a refreshing alcoholic beverage. With its simplicity and light-heartedness, Wakakozake offers a delightful escape that can easily be savored by individuals with limited free time.

12 Super Cub

At the onset of Super Cub, Koguma, the main character, finds herself in an incredibly solitary state. Devoid of any familial ties, friends, or genuine pastimes, she leads a serene and isolated existence. However, everything takes a dramatic turn when Koguma purchases a motorcycle for herself, hence crossing paths with two fellow female riders at her school. Super Cub, a subdued anime, underscores the profound impact that a beloved hobby can have on an individual's life. The gradual growth and personal development of Koguma throughout the series unfurls in a heartwarming manner, leaving viewers captivated. Additionally, the show meticulously showcases the meticulous care and attention required to maintain a motorcycle, while also focusing on the subtle nuances and details.

11 A Place Further than the Universe

A Place Further than the Universe, produced by Studio Madhouse in 2018, is a slice-of-life series that offers a unique premise. It revolves around a group of four high school girls who embark on an expedition to Antarctica. Despite the extreme climate they encounter, the series remains consistently optimistic, wearing its heart on its sleeve. The genuine and comfortable relationship between Mari, Shirase, Hinata, and Yuzuki adds to the timeless appeal of this classic slice-of-life anime.

10 Flying Witch

Flying Witch is an iyashikei anime that follows Makoto, a young witch who moves to the Aomori prefecture to live with her relatives as part of her training. The series depicts her new life in a comedic and heartwarming manner. For fans of Kiki's Delivery Service, Flying Witch is a perfect choice as it showcases the charming aspects of Makoto's witchcraft and how it develops while she spends time with her family and friends. With a focus on the simple joys of life amidst stunning scenery, every episode of Flying Witch provides a sense of comfort.

9 Restaurant To Another World

One of the most beloved food-themed anime series to come out in recent years, Restaurant To Another World takes place in a restaurant that, once every week, secretly opens its doors to a magical realm, where it offers delectable dishes to mythical creatures such as elves and mermaids. While this show incorporates various elements from the fantasy and isekai genres, its main focus lies in the personal tales of the restaurant's staff and patrons, rather than their heroic adventures. With its tantalizing culinary creations and ability to transport viewers into a world of wonder, Restaurant To Another World is a remarkable fusion of different genres.

8 Diary Of Our Days At The Breakwater

In line with the popular slice-of-life anime genre that revolves around characters exploring new hobbies, Diary Of Our Days At The Breakwater tells the story of Hina, the protagonist, who returns to her childhood town. Here, she reunites with an old friend and becomes a part of her school's fishing club. Every episode follows Hina and her clubmates as they go fishing or gather supplies for their fishing trips. Although the concept may seem uneventful, the series captivates viewers with its emphasis on Hina's friendships and her growing passion for the club. Overcoming her fears along the way, the show offers a relaxed and heartwarming experience.

7 Sweetness And Lightning

Centered around one of the most beloved fathers in anime, Sweetness and Lightning might not initially strike viewers as a particularly calming series. The premise reveals that the main character, Kōhei, is left to care for his young daughter, Tsumugi, following the passing of his wife. However, the story's central focus on the heartwarming bond between father and daughter outweighs its more somber moments. After deciding to acquire the skill of preparing nourishing meals for his daughter, Kōhei enlists the help of Kotori, a talented high school cook. Sweetness and Lightning is a tender anime that beautifully showcases the advantages of sharing a homemade meal in a nurturing home environment.

6 Laid-Back Camp

Laid-Back Camp, also referred to as Yuru Camp, depicts the escapades of a circle of companions as they embark on camping adventures. The group is led by Nadeshiko, a newcomer to camping, and Rin, an experienced solo-camper. Nadeshiko's sociable personality stands in stark contrast to Rin's introverted nature, and the two individuals learn valuable lessons from one another during their outings. The charm of Laid-Back Camp lies in its cozy ambiance, picturesque landscapes, and its commitment to capturing serene moments of perfection, whether in the culinary creations of the campers or in the rejuvenating hot springs they visit. This iyashikei anime excellently highlights the numerous advantages of embracing the outdoors.

5 K-On!

K-On! is an exceptional anime that revolves around the world of music. The story centers on a group of girls who unite to save their school's light music club from disbanding. Together, they form a band and embark on a journey to refine their musical style. Renowned for its incredibly entertaining blend of comedy and music, K-On! also leaves a lasting impression with its portrayal of deep friendships. While certain plot elements span multiple episodes, this slice-of-life anime is particularly renowned for its seasonal episodes, making it a delightful watch during both the summer and winter months.

4 Aria

Aria, a captivating slice-of-life anime series, takes place in Neo-Venezia, an extraordinary futuristic city on the planet Aqua. The storyline revolves around the ambitious newcomer, Akari, as she embarks on her journey to become a respected tour guide and gondolier – profession that involves operating gondolas. Throughout her quest, Akari not only discovers insights into her desired career but also explores the rich history of her enchanting new home. Unlike many other slice-of-life series, Aria manages to maintain a relaxed and unhurried pace, allowing viewers to indulge in a serene watching experience. Every episode exudes fascination thanks to the distinctive setting, while the accompanying soundtrack complements the show perfectly, contributing to its overall charm.

3 Let's Make A Mug Too

Let's Make a Mug Too is an anime series centered around a unique and enjoyable club. The story mainly follows Himeno, who relocates to her mother's hometown with her father. Himeno's mother, who was a remarkably skilled potter, passed away when Himeno was young. To her surprise, she discovers her mother's hidden talent and decides to join her school's pottery club. The anime showcases captivating characters and places a particular emphasis on Mino ware pottery. This heartwarming tale of reconnecting not only entertains but also gently imparts knowledge to the audience, leaving them yearning to participate in a pottery class.

2 Barakamon

Barakamon revolves around Seishu Handa, a talented calligrapher, who is exiled to a secluded island by his father after losing his temper at a critique of his work. During his time on the island, Seishu encounters a charming community of locals and embarks on a journey of self-discovery and artistic growth. Among the townspeople, he befriends Naru, a spirited and curious young girl whose personality sharply contrasts with his own. With a blend of humor and lightheartedness, Barakamon chronicles Seishu's evolving connection not only to his craft but also to the people he encounters on his transformative journey.

1 Non Non Biyori

Renowned for its captivating portrayal of everyday life, Non Non Biyori is set in a quaint countryside village and chronicles the daily adventures of Hotaru, a fresh-faced resident, and her newfound companions. With a mere five students comprising the entire school population, this slice-of-life series presents an iyashikei narrative as it delves into Hotaru and her friends' experiences in the idyllic rural landscape, where essential amenities are located miles away. Embracing their surroundings, they find solace and amusement in the beauty of nature, molding their days with joyful pursuits.

Though anime is renowned for its extravagant action scenes, there are also remarkable anime series that focus on the tranquility of everyday life. Slice-of-life genre has always had a significant presence in anime, offering a soothing escape from the pressures of the day. Contrary to being dull, even the most mellow slice-of-life anime captivate audiences with their well-developed characters and engaging narratives. These relaxed slice-of-life anime are ideal for viewing during challenging periods.