Watch Seirei no Moribito

Seirei no Moribito, translated as Guardian of the Sacred Spirit, is a Japanese anime television series that aired from April 2016 to June 2018 on NHK. The series is based on the first novel in the Moribito series by Nahoko Uehashi and is set in a fantasy world inspired by ancient East Asia.

The story follows Balsa, a skilled warrior and a bodyguard, who is tasked with protecting Prince Chagum, the second son of the emperor, from people who seek to harm him. However, she soon discovers that Prince Chagum holds a secret that could change the fate of the Empire, and she becomes determined to help him.

The show is directed by Kenji Kamiyama, who is known for his work on Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex and Eden of the East. The cast includes Mabuki Ando as Balsa, Naoto Adachi as Prince Chagum, and Koji Tsujitani as Tanda, Balsa's childhood friend.

The animation quality of Seirei no Moribito is of a high standard, with detailed and fluid movements that enhance the fight scenes and portray the characters' emotions effectively. The backgrounds are also beautifully designed, with a focus on nature and landscapes that reflect the show's underlying themes of spirituality and balance.

One of the highlights of Seirei no Moribito is the character development of Balsa, who is portrayed as a strong and independent woman with a tragic past. Her relationship with Prince Chagum is also a key aspect of the story, as the two characters grow to trust and rely on each other as the series progresses.

The supporting characters are also well-developed, with each having their own motivations and personality quirks. Tanda, in particular, is a highlight of the show, with his gentle and caring nature balancing out Balsa's rough exterior.

The show's soundtrack, composed by Kenji Kawai, is hauntingly beautiful and sets the tone for each scene perfectly. The opening theme, "Shine," by L'Arc-en-Ciel, is an uplifting and catchy song that contrasts with the more serious tone of the show.

Overall, Seirei no Moribito is a well-crafted and engaging anime series that explores themes of fate, morality, and the relationship between humans and nature. Its strong characters, stunning animation, and memorable soundtrack make it a must-watch for fans of the genre.

Seirei no Moribito is a series that ran for 1 seasons (26 episodes) between and on NHK