Horimiya is a romantic slice-of-life anime that captured the hearts of fans when it aired in 2021. With its realistic characters, sincere storytelling, and beautiful animation, Horimiya quickly became a standout in its genre.

In this article, we’ll give you a comprehensive Horimiya anime review, covering the plot, characters, animation quality, strengths, weaknesses, and overall impressions.

📖 Brief Synopsis

Adapted from the manga by HERO and Daisuke Hagiwara, Horimiya tells the story of two seemingly opposite high school students: Kyouko Hori, a smart and popular girl with a hidden domestic side, and Izumi Miyamura, a quiet, introverted classmate who leads a very different life outside of school.

Their unexpected meeting leads to a genuine connection, where they open up to each other and begin to develop a sweet, supportive relationship built on honesty.

🎭 Characters and Storytelling

One of Horimiya’s biggest strengths lies in its realistic and relatable characters. Hori and Miyamura are both portrayed with emotional depth, vulnerabilities, and growth that feel authentic.

Highlights of the character and story development:

• Their relationship grows organically without forced drama

• The show portrays teenage love and friendship in a grounded, mature way

• Supporting characters like Yuki, Toru, and Remi also receive moments of development

🎨 Visuals and Soundtrack

Produced by CloverWorks, Horimiya features a soft, expressive art style that complements its gentle storytelling. The animation is clean and smooth, with well-crafted character designs.

The soundtrack is another highlight. The opening theme "Iro Kousui" and ending "Yakusoku" perfectly capture the anime’s emotional tone.

✅ Pros of Horimiya

• ✨ Simple, heartfelt story with strong emotional beats

• 💕 Healthy, supportive main couple dynamic

• 🎨 Beautiful animation and fitting music

• 📚 Additional content covered in Horimiya: The Missing Pieces (2023)

❌ Cons of Horimiya

• ⏱ Some story arcs feel rushed, especially toward the end

• 📖 Not all manga content is adapted in the main anime

• 😔 Certain side characters deserved more screen time and exploration

🎯 Final Verdict: Is Horimiya Worth Watching?

In a genre often filled with clichés and over-the-top drama, Horimiya offers something different — a grounded, emotionally honest story about love, identity, and acceptance.

Whether you're a fan of romance, slice-of-life, or just looking for a feel-good anime, Horimiya is a must-watch.

Rating: 8.5/10
Recommended for fans of high school romance and character-driven storytelling.