Flying Witch [Season 1 Episode 1 to Episode 12]

Flying Witch: A Soothing Slice of Magic and Countryside Charm

When Flying Witch first aired in 2016, it didn’t come with flashy battles or high-stakes drama. Instead, it offered something far more precious: a gentle, heartwarming escape into a world where magic blends seamlessly with everyday life. Produced by J.C.Staff, the anime adaptation of Chihiro Ishizuka’s manga follows Makoto Kowata, a 15-year-old apprentice witch who moves to the countryside to complete her training. What unfolds is a series of quiet, whimsical moments that feel like a warm hug—a rare gem in an industry often dominated by intensity.

A Breath of Fresh Air

From the very first episode, Flying Witch establishes itself as a slice-of-life anime with a twist. Makoto’s journey begins when she leaves Yokohama for Aomori, a rural town known for its witch-friendly atmosphere. Accompanied by her talking cat, Chito, she moves in with her cousins, Kei and Chinatsu, who quickly become entangled in her magical misadventures.

Fans on MyAnimeList and other forums couldn’t stop praising the show’s relaxing pace. One user described it as “the Grimgar of the season—slow, calm, and utterly charming.” Another compared it to Studio Ghibli’s Kiki’s Delivery Service, noting how witches in this world aren’t hidden but simply a rare, accepted part of society. The countryside setting, with its lush landscapes and tranquil vibe, adds to the show’s soothing appeal.

Magic in the Mundane

What makes Flying Witch stand out is how it treats magic—not as a spectacle, but as an ordinary part of life. Makoto’s spells are often small and practical, like summoning a breeze or brewing tea with enchanted leaves. Yet, these moments are sprinkled with humor and wonder. The infamous “mandrake scene” in Episode 1 became an instant fan favorite. When Makoto casually yanks a screaming root vegetable from the ground, her cousin Nao’s horrified reaction had viewers in stitches.

“That mandrake was the highlight of my week,” one Reddit user joked. “I went in expecting a chill show, and then BAM—screaming radish!” Others appreciated how the anime balanced fantasy with realism. “It’s like Harry Potter meets Natsume’s Book of Friends,” wrote another fan, referencing the show’s ability to blend supernatural elements with slice-of-life warmth.

Characters That Feel Like Family

Makoto herself is a delight—earnest, slightly airheaded, and endlessly endearing. Her dynamic with Chinatsu, who starts off skeptical but quickly warms up to her “weird” cousin, is a joy to watch. By Episode 12, Chinatsu even starts calling her “Mako-nee,” a small but heartwarming detail that fans adored.

Kei, Makoto’s older cousin, serves as the straight man to her whimsy, though some viewers felt his voice actor could’ve brought more energy to the role. Still, his deadpan reactions to Makoto’s antics—like her disastrous broom-flying attempts—add to the show’s humor.

A Soundtrack for Serenity

The anime’s music, composed by Yoshiaki Dewa, complements its tranquil tone perfectly. The opening theme, “Sharanran” by miwa, is a cheerful, folksy tune that sets the mood for each episode. Fans noted how the soundtrack’s soft piano melodies and acoustic guitar riffs enhance the show’s cozy atmosphere. “The BGM feels like a lullaby,” one MyAnimeList user wrote. “It’s impossible to watch this show without feeling at peace.”

Final Thoughts: Why Flying Witch Soars

In a sea of action-packed and emotionally heavy anime, Flying Witch is a rare retreat. It doesn’t rely on plot twists or cliffhangers; instead, it invites viewers to slow down and savor the little things—whether it’s Makoto’s clumsy attempts at witchcraft, Chinatsu’s wide-eyed wonder, or the simple beauty of Aomori’s countryside.

As one fan perfectly summed it up: “This show is like a cup of herbal tea on a rainy day. You don’t realize how much you needed it until you take that first sip.”

If you’re craving something light, funny, and utterly heartwarming, Flying Witch is the perfect pick. Just beware of any screaming vegetables along the way.