Watch Sarai-ya Goyou

Sarai-ya Goyou is an anime television show that is based on an eponymous novel by Natsume Ono. The anime was directed by Tomomi Mochizuki and produced by Manglobe, and it was released in Japan in 2010. The story is set in Edo-era Japan, following the journey of a wandering samurai named Masanosuke Akitsu. After being fired from his previous position, Masanosuke takes up a job as a bodyguard for a mysterious man named Yaichi, who he believes is an ordinary merchant. Masanosuke soon realizes that Yaichi is a member of a group of thieves known as the Goyou, who steal from the wealthy to help the poor.

As Masanosuke becomes more involved with the Goyou, he begins to form relationships with the various members of the group. There is Otake, the fierce and spirited woman who is one of the Goyou's most skilled thieves; Matsukichi, the kind-hearted and loyal young man who is in love with Otake; Umezo, the gruff and experienced member who serves as the group's strategist and leader; and Seiji, the enigmatic and reclusive assassin who rarely speaks.

Throughout the show, Masanosuke grapples with his own beliefs and values as he becomes more entrenched in the world of the Goyou. He begins to question whether their actions are truly noble, or if they are simply thieves who use their Robin Hood-like status as a cover for their crimes. Meanwhile, tensions rise as the group faces threats from both their enemies and from within.

One of the most notable aspects of Sarai-ya Goyou is its visual style. The show's animation is characterized by its muted colors, detailed backgrounds, and deliberate pacing. The aesthetic gives the show an understated elegance that is perfectly suited to its historical setting.

The characters in Sarai-ya Goyou are also well-developed and complex. Masanosuke is a particularly interesting protagonist, as he struggles with his own identity as a samurai and his role in the Goyou. He is a man of principles who is often torn between his loyalty to Yaichi and his own sense of justice.

The rest of the cast is equally compelling. Otake is a particularly strong female character, as she is both physically powerful and emotionally vulnerable. Matsukichi is a sympathetic figure who provides much of the show's heart, while Umezo is a fascinating character who seems to know more than he lets on. Seiji, meanwhile, is an enigma whose true motivations are always in question.

Overall, Sarai-ya Goyou is a beautifully crafted anime that offers a compelling story and a rich cast of characters. It is a thoughtful and introspective show that explores themes of justice, morality, and loyalty. With its striking visual style and nuanced storytelling, it is a must-watch for fans of historical dramas and character-driven anime.