Audience reviews
20 · Sample from the first available page, separate from the total number of ratings.
SgtSalamander
House of Five Leaves is best described as a quietly stellar work, steeped in tradition with an ambitious artistic vision, paired with some excellent music. Beginning with the story, it explores the story of a good man finding good people to surround himself with, and getting tied up in the bad things they do. Much of the show wrestles with this moral quandary throughout. Meanwhile, the role of our main character, Masa, is explored more as a man who is a samurai rather than a man who embodies what it means to be a samurai. Indeed, he has little time to pursue that line of inquiry, as he is still wrestling with what it means to be himself. This is a story about the samurai as a regular person, even a person which is riddled with doubts and flaws beyond the normal, expected degree. Nonetheles…
Read at the sourcea_last_flower
I would like to learn to live in an emotional home like Five Leaves: not always safe, but composed of people who, though broken, hold each other with respect.
You don't have to change your nature to be useful or loved. You don't need to pretend or stand up for yourself. Listening is a revolutionary act.
In dialogues, everyone gives each other space, hesitations. They do not interrupt each other. This respect for each other's emotional rhythm is very rare today.
I would like to bring it into real life: to be more present in the silence of others, not just in words.
Even the strangest or most obscure people have their reasons.
The members of the Five Leaves gang are thieves, outcasts, yet they are not evil. No one is reduced to “good” or “bad.”
There is a deep humanity in the doubt and ambi…
Read at the sourceLfriss
Overall I'd give it like a 7.75, close to 8 but not quite. I think that there was certain things that were lacking for my personal taste, but I was pretty pleasantly surprised with the way that the story was conveyed. Despite not showing much conventional action, within the first two episodes I found myself unexpectedly engaged with the story line, and amazed at the amount of story that the show could flesh out in such a short time. I think that those who would enjoy this anime are the type that like plots like a game of go/chess: The set up is unique and intriguing, and the real enjoyment comes from watching the way that in unfolds and develops. Its satisfying to see an plot, even if not the greatest I've ever seen, that puts its primary intrigue into something more deep and realistic.
Read at the sourcesukisan1
This is one of my favorite anime but overall it depends what you're looking for, I see other reviews comparing it to samurai champloo saying this is boring if that's the same vibe you're expecting you're going to be disappointed because there's not much action but I think constant fighting scenes and action fighting focused anime are so boring so I really appreciate a good nostalgic story like this one. People need to realize that anime can't be judged solely on action... there are other genres too, just because the plot is about samurai doesn't mean it's going to be all about fighting.
The character design is definitely different but I grew to love it as I kept watching. The music is catchy I love the overall vibe of this show. If you're into historical anime that take you back to Edo J…
Read at the sourceIAmGrace
I think this anime was great in his own way the story didn't have that much action and they didn't make it unrealistic it was different so I will compliment that. Though it may seem some viewers will find it boring but for me it's unique and fantastic. the characters were pretty less and simple to get on to. I enjoyed first 3 4 eps then later on felt kind of boring. but overall its decent anime. I don't know if others will fell the same way but for me its a 6 out of 10 lets say. I really liked that one character with a white hair named Yaichi.
Read at the sourceRauLeCreuset
I loved this anime for one reason, and one reason only, "samurai" I love any anime that has to have anything to do with samurai. I absolutely love it. This anime, was indeed went at somewhat a snail's pace. But, as each part pieced together, then I slowly started to get a better understanding of each and every character, within this short anime but, really secretive anime series. It shows how humans are able to control or "mask" their emotions, even under extreme stress. But, each person has their own curiosity to unravel the past of those who of the mysterious type.
Read at the source91Gilbert
Main Points
- Characters: 9.5/10
- Animation: 8/10
- Plot: 6.5/10
- Music: 8/10
- Originality: 7.3/10
Bonus
- Voice Acting: 8.5/10
- Atmosphere: 8.5/10
- Writing and Dialogue: 10/10 - Surprises / Plot Twists: 7/10
- Impact: 7/10
=> Overall: 8.03/10
Comment:
A light-hearted story with authentic dialogue between the characters. What I like about the work is the communication between people, which does not require a lot of action scenes like ordinary samurai sets. Next is the character's expression, the most impressive point of the work. The look, the sarcastic smile, the contemplation, the hesitation,... Every action in the story evokes very real and human emotions.
Even so, if I had to choose between the manga's ending and the anime's, I'd prefer the manga version. Of course, in my opinio…
Read at the sourceAsbjoernson
Saraiya Goyou is beautifully and attentively narrated. It oozes a refined calmness as it carries through its story in a steady pace. Something we rarely ever see in television series. Film and animation operate with contrasting pacings to enforce/evoke emotional states upon/within the viewer.
to forgo the industries mightiest trick is hard to pull off - there is precedents but no recipes. Frankly, most directors fail miserably. Saraiya Goyou pulls it off.
What can you do with time when it is not acting out in torrential surges, crashing waves, receding lines, ebbing and rising?
Time just passes during scenes. Time has passed between the scenes. It is not said, hinted or explained how much time. In Saraiya time is neither tool nor topic.
Faces, shoulders (posture) and hands are shown i…
Read at the sourceAbeyant
Perfect example of a hidden gem.
Story 9/10:
Story is perfectly enjoyable, kind of slice-of-lifey. The pacing is done just right. Other reviews mention this: this isn't heavy on action. Instead the feel is more of an slice-of-life adventure. Love it.
Art 10/10:
If your not used to seeing different styles of animation then it may be a little odd, but give it some time and you'll come to accept and hopefully enjoy it. Its *well executed, consistent, and fairly creative (the colors used are less so, but match well and I guess that's what matters more). Really enjoyed seeing a unique animation style that didn't feel "experimental" (not that there's anything wrong with that, but for some reasons they then can't seem to shy away from somewhat confusing mind games and narrative funkyness - t…
Read at the sourcepatrickRos
This anime receives far less attention than it deserves. If you've never heard of Saraiya Goyou, definitely take a moment to see if it's up your alley.
The anime follows a strong, innocent, and timid samurai as he joins a enigmatic group in feudal Japan. The interactions between our uncertain protagonist and the group's charismatic leader resemble "Of Mice and Men." Overall, the story focuses on uncovering mystery, loss of innocence, and slow-paced atmosphere.
One strength of the anime is that---while it has few action scenes---each of these scenes are crisp and impactful. Characters are nuanced and develop into more complicated individuals over the course of the show. Foreshadowing is well done. The show blends its slow-moving plot with a sense of increasing mystery.
Perhaps one reason…
Read at the sourcemattpointon77
I gave this series a 9 rather than a 10 purely because of the artwork and the music. The storytelling and characters were excellent in all respects and I was glued from start to finish (I watched the lot in a single day). However, whilst most of the artwork was excellent, the style of how the faces of some characters were drawn (particularly the females) - sharp pointed noses, large vacant eyes and gash-like lips, caused me to struggle to empathise with them. And the theme tunes were awful which is a shame as some of the music in the actual episodes was great. Thankfully, no annoying chibi characters, although the cat came close at times.
Read at the sourceeyerok
“My time with the five leaves was nourishment for the soul. “don’t care about the past, enjoy the present” The man in front of me is yaichi-dono, the one who taught me that”
Althought Saraiya Goyou is set in the Edo period, it does not attempt to capture the ‘historical’ realism of the background premise. That much is obvious from its odd artwork and animation style. Neither does it aim at being an action samurai anime. Instead, it’s more of a character-centric seinen drama with a strong attention to detail on the characters, their motivations, expressions, actions etc. Perhaps that is why it is considered ‘slow-moving’; the way the story moves with its characters (rather than the other way round) could put off those who don’t prefer character exposition heavy stories, or those who aren’…
Read at the sourceSamuraiSteve
Let me preface. This is my favorite anime. If you enjoyed Kaiba, Cowboy Bebop, or Usagi Drop, check this out.
That said, I am a fan of character-driven stories and storytelling consisting of more show than tell. Above all, Saraiya Goyou is in my book a masterpiece because of the adept, layered plot and well-paced story. I must warn you, since I love this show so much, this review will be long and detailed.
Starting with story (10/10), a social outcast, but skilled sworsdsman for hire, Akitsu,
is introduced. Many anime titles (generic ones typically) would attempt to redeem the character, with the character we love proving him/her to the world. This marks Saraiya Goyou as smart, breaking conventions. The story unravels the psyche of the main character and others over time. As it is a Sl…
Read at the sourceFleure
The streets glow with a crimson hue.
Upon closer gaze, a pattern of five-pointed leaves stained with a fiery red flutter in synchronized elegance, encapsulating the essence of an enigmatic tale told in the 12-episode anime titled Saraiya Goyou or House of Five Leaves. Based on the manga by Natsume Ono, Saraiya Goyou tells a slow-burning narrative revolving around an unemployed samurai named Masa, who in simple desperation, finds himself hired by Yaichi – the leader of a small band of thieves who call themselves the Five Leaves.
The bulk of the series focuses on the dynamics between the members of the Five Leaves, specifically Masa and Yaichi. Naturally then, this series is an entirely character-driven drama that entices with a very clear handle on its ambitions. Surprisingly enough, the…
Read at the sourceyolerMit
What an underrated and unpopular anime, which became one of my favorites out of the blue. I will get to the point immidiately.
Story : 10
Here is a story about a samurai with no self-confidence, who is gradually convinced to join a gang. There is barely any bloodshed, only the everyday lives of the members as they plan their new crimes. In terms of originallity, this anime is the top of the top of the samurai/historical genre.
The purpose of this anime is not only to display the violence or the traditions of the time that it takes place. It is destined to recount the circumstances of each character and justify their way of life and their choices, which adds mystery and suspense to the story as well.
Art : 10
What can I say about it? I was completely taken by its landscapes, the details…
Read at the sourcekyojin13
House of Five Leaves (Saraiya Goyou) is a subtle, samurai tale in Edo-Japan. If you are planning to watch this, do not expect fight scene after fight scene (hence subtle). The story is a blend of five characters lives into one storyline that explains how they all met, why they are friends, etc. The character development of this anime is very prominent and one of the best I've seen in a "basic" samurai anime. The animation art is different and that can be seen in the characters' faces; it is definitely unique. The show's soundtrack is a mix of present day and classic Japanese music, which I really enjoyed. Also, the sound affects were above average.
I watched House of Five Leaves in one day and I couldn't stop until I was finished. AGAIN, do not watch this for action, since it is more of a…
Read at the sourceCoolCat0615
House of Five Leaves is an utterly mesmerizing Samurai drama that follows the dealings of a gang of thieves called Five Leaves in Edo Japan, who focus on kidnapping and ransom to make a profit. Despite the intriguing premise the show sadly went overlooked by most at the time of its release. This is likely due to the focus on dialogue and character interaction rather than swordplay and large-scale fights. It's a real shame too because the characters themselves are really something to behold.
Each member of the Five Leaves gang receives a small character arc that delves into their motivations and attitudes towards thievery. The show constantly explores the idea of when it is and isn't okay to commit a crime. Some are earning money to support another, others are following a code of loyalty,…
Read at the sourceZephSilver
Every now and then a show is needed to unwind to. Something to break the monotony of the typical over-the-top anime shows with "in your face" color pallete and the overused tropes. We seek these melancholic shows to provide temporary release from the norm, a sort of meditative experience if you will. House of Five Leaves is that kind of show. A show that understands its audiences' desires and executes it with a delicate balance. This certainly isn't for anyone seeking an adrenaline rush or intense action flick but rather serves as an oasis for anime fans that want to just kick back and relax. Story: 7/10
The story follows our protagonist Masanosuke as he searches for a purpose in which he can excel at. However being a wondering ronin limits his options to bodyguard duty and through this h…
Read at the sourceEneko-chan
While indubitably a good one, this anime might not be just everyone's cup of tea. Speaking of cups of tea, Saraiya Goyou is very much like a good cup of tea on a winter's evening, when you're snuggled up in a chair with a warm blanket and a good book. It's a cup of green tea, gently warming your freezing palms, with delicate yet sweet taste and subtle fragrance.
While one may call it slow-paced, and there's not much action to be seen there, its beauty lies precisely in its slow, meditative storytelling. It's a genuine drama in its portrayal of people with unique circumstances, how their fates, pasts, motivations, hopes and fears cross, clash, grow together. It's a show about forgiveness and reconciliation, with the world and with yourself, a show about how everyone starts out with differ…
Read at the sourcegreatyu
Story(8) - The story is set in a medieval traditional Japanese period of Edo where we follow a curious Samurai, the whole story merely tackles a character's past which is definitely unique.
Art(7) - One can say the eyes and mouth were drawn weird, and it failed to give the required characters the "look" It has that style where it's very difficult to recognize characters unless you observe carefully.
Sound(7) - Traditional Japanese melodies with flutes and such, it gave the subtle and the calm atmosphere. Also i love the way where the musician was able to manipulate the traditional music to suit particular moods such as "humor" and "nostalgia" The voicing was good, especially Yaichi's.
Character(8) - The characters were interesting, especially the main protagonist and some members he…
Read at the source
