Hakkenden: Eight Dogs of the East

Hakkenden: Eight Dogs of the East is a captivating Japanese animated television series that debuted in 2013. This fantasy-action anime, by the renowned studio Deen, is brimming with a blend of supernatural mysteries, daring adventures, and the rich tapestry of Japanese folklore. It is based on the celebrated epic novel "Nansō Satomi Hakkenden" by Kyokutei Bakin.

The series revolves around the lives of three survivors of the Otsuka Village, which was decimated by a grim plague five years ago. The main protagonist, Shino Inuzuka, his best friend Sosuke Inukawa, and the lovely Hamaji were not only immune to the deadly epidemic but also acquired mystifying abilities in its wake. In a world where humans coexist with diverse mystical creatures, these three characters are uniquely bound to their mortal existence and are the chosen bearers of ominous spiritual beads.

In the first season, these young survivors are coerced into leaving their sanctum, triggering the unfolding journey towards finding the other five bead inheritors. The unfolding narrative traces their intertwined destinies, their struggles, and the constant battles they fight against the dark forces trying to manipulate their fates.

Shino's character stands out for his mysterious youthfulness and the ability to wield the demonic blade "Murasame," home to a sarcastic, mischievous crow demon with the same name. His friend, Sosuke, portrays the steadfast resilience of a loyal guard dog, owing to his transformational ability into a canine form. In contrast, Hamaji brings forward a nurturing touch through her strong yet caring nature and her crucial role as a homemaker for these friends.

Much of the allure and intrigue of Hakkenden: Eight Dogs of the East stems from the underlying mystery surrounding the true nature of these spiritual beads and the significance of their bearers. Bearing these beads makes them part of the 'Eight Bead Holders', the legendary warriors prophesied to meet once all eight are alive. As the series progresses, these heroes gradually realize the magnitude of their destiny, unraveling the myriad complexities of their intertwined past, traumas, and powerful abilities.

Developing relationships in this ever-evolving narrative add depth to the characters. The dynamics between the trio, the newly introduced bead-bearers, and the other unique characters they meet along their journey consistently seep into the story's main narrative arcs, painting a multifaceted world teeming with intimacy, loyalty, betrayal, and desperation.

Throughout Hakkenden: Eight Dogs of the East, viewers also enjoy an immersive peek into traditional Japanese elements. This is predominantly infused through the usage of ancient legends, supernatural creatures, or 'Youkai', and the respectful portrayal of Shinto priests and shrines. Also, the aesthetically designed landscapes beautifully score the changing seasons, invoking haunting nostalgia of an era gone by.

Visually, the series offers breathtaking visuals with top-notch animation that brings to life both the human characters and the mythical creatures. Notably, there's an exquisite balance between darkness and color, reflecting the mixture of grave circumstances, serene moments, and the thrilling supernatural phenomena that occur throughout the series.

The show's musical score is another commendable aspect that manages to elevate its somber tone. The opening and ending tracks are particularly captivating, seamlessly blending with the supernatural and dramatic themes of the series. The series has two 13-episode seasons, with the second part introducing new characters, brewing relationships, and progressively revealing the truths behind their world's construction.

Hakkenden: Eight Dogs of the East is a perfect choice for fans of action-adventure anime with strong character development and delightful fantasy elements. Its rich narrative offers an addictive saga of friendship, struggle, survival, and destiny, rooted in a historically immersive and enchantingly eerie environment. The show's striking visual appeal, arresting soundtracks, adept storytelling, and the seamless blending of traditional and contemporary Japan make it a compelling watch, pushing audience curiosity to its limit until the end. The enthralling world that Hakkenden weaves around its viewers makes it an unforgettable experience in the anime genre.