Zatsu Tabi [Season 1 Episode 1]

Zatsu Tabi: That’s Journey – A Wholesome Adventure Begins

Episode 1: “Adventure Awaits”

If you’re a fan of laid-back, slice-of-life anime with a sprinkle of wanderlust, Zatsu Tabi: That’s Journey might just be your next obsession. The first episode, which aired on April 7, 2025, introduces us to Chika Suzugamori, an aspiring mangaka whose drafts keep getting rejected by her editor. Frustrated but not defeated, she stumbles upon the idea of traveling across Japan—guided by a social media poll, no less—to find inspiration for her work.

A Comfy Start with Yuru Camp Vibes

Right off the bat, fans have been quick to draw comparisons to Yuru Camp, and for good reason. The show oozes that same cozy, travel-centric charm, but with its own unique twist. Chika isn’t just camping; she’s on a mission to rediscover her creativity, one scenic location at a time. The episode kicks off with her journey to Aizuwakamatsu, where she climbs a staggering 1,225 steps to reach a shrine—because why not?

The animation is stunning, with backgrounds so detailed they almost look like real-life photographs. Studio Makaria (known for their work on other iyashikei—or “healing”—anime) has outdone themselves, making every frame feel like a postcard from rural Japan. Fans are already calling it a “tourism ad in anime form,” and honestly, they’re not wrong.

Chika: The Relatable Protagonist

Chika’s personality is a big hit among viewers. She’s not your typical high-energy protagonist; instead, she’s a bit of an indoor type, making her sudden decision to travel all the more endearing. Her curiosity and determination resonate with anyone who’s ever felt stuck in a rut. One fan put it perfectly: “The world is so beautiful when you just get out there.”

Her journey isn’t just about sightseeing—it’s about growth. By the end of the episode, her drafts are still rejected, but she’s already planning her next trip. It’s a subtle yet powerful message: sometimes, the journey itself is the reward.

The Nitty-Gritty: What Fans Are Saying

The MyAnimeList discussion threads are buzzing with mixed but mostly positive reactions. Here’s the breakdown:

• The Good:
• “This is the comfiest show of the season!”
• “The visuals are top-tier, and Chika’s voice actress (a rookie) nails the role.”

• “It’s like Yuru Camp but with a mangaka twist—love it!”

• The Not-So-Good:

• “It’s a bit slow—almost fell asleep.” (Hey, not everyone’s into chill vibes.)
• “Needs more character interactions.” (Fair, but Episode 1 was all about setting the stage.)

One hilarious comment even called out the anime for breaking a classic trope: “An anime where a normal Japanese person gets rained on and doesn’t end up with a cold the next morning? INCONCEIVABLE!”

Final Thoughts: Should You Watch It?

If you’re looking for a high-stakes, action-packed series, this isn’t it. But if you want something to unwind with—something that feels like a warm hug after a long day—Zatsu Tabi delivers. It’s a love letter to travel, self-discovery, and the little joys of life.

The first episode sets up a promising foundation, and with Chika’s adventures just beginning, there’s plenty to look forward to. Will she finally create a manga that impresses her editor? Will she meet fellow travelers along the way? Only time will tell, but for now, it’s a journey worth tagging along for.

Rating: 4.5/5 (Because who doesn’t need more comfy anime in their life?)

Catch Zatsu Tabi: That’s Journey on Crunchyroll, and let us know—where should Chika go next?