Kino's Journey - Recommendations

Alt title: Kino no Tabi: The Beautiful World

If you're looking for anime similar to Kino's Journey, you might like these titles.

Mushishi

Mushishi

It isn't unusual for a person to feel that the world around them is strange and has unexpected secrets lying just beyond their sight. However, for most people this is just an occasional sensation that greets them upon awakening or chases them into sleep. For the mushi researcher Ginko, it isn't a feeling at all; it is a knowledge which guides his travels and motivates his life. Found in the cracks between what is conceivable and what is not, are the varied life forms collectively known as mushi. They surround us and affect us, but their intensely different nature makes them unrecognizable to most. Ginko brings these life forms into perspective for the lives of those most affected and most in need of an explanation.

45 votes

I agree

Reasons you might like Mushishi...

vivafruit vivafruit says...

In many ways, Mushishi and Kino no Tabi are nice companions to each other. Indeed, the two series’ protagonists, at least, are very similar. Both are travelers. Both are detached, unbiased, and unprejudiced. Both seem content to observe their world rather than preach to it.

More broadly, both series use episodic plots to tell fables that are both thought-provoking and emotionally resonant.

specialkay007 specialkay007 says...

For all people who enjoyed Kino no Tabi, I would also recommend Mushishi, and vice versa. Both animes are quite similar in many ways, and they are both very unique. Their protagonists are travelers, thinkers, fair-minded individuals, and have their own sense of justice. Also, both animes are very episodic and revolve around the protagonists and their journey.

dynatious dynatious says...

Kino's Journey and Mushishi follow a traveler journeying across the world. Kino and Ginko (the protagonist in Mushishi) both share a neutral attitude towards the people they meet and the world they live in. If you watch Mushishi, you will be overcome with admiration for the main character as he travels across an amazing world, encountering many strange situations and unique creatures. Like Kino's Journey, this anime can really get you thinking, and sometimes will leave you with your jaw dropped and completely speechless.

Cilas Cilas says...

Good storytelling is what Kino's Journey and Mushishi focus on, and they both succeed. With their nice, concise stories, each episode can be just as easily told as a bedtime story. There are no drawn-out continuous storylines here. Each episode can stand on its own feet and be told in any order, without losing its impact.

The main characters are similar, too. Both are calm, calculating types, yet not so much that they are unlikable. Both are travelers, which is why every episode has a standalone quality that matches each character's persona.

tac0 tac0 says...

The similarities between Kino no Tabi and Mushishi are not in the stories they tell but how those stories are told and what the stories look at. Both Kino and Ginko are wanderers, coming into very different situations that allow for observations and introspective commentaries on society and the people in it.

Xen Xen says...

Both Kino's Journey and Mushishi share the same serene and laidback "feel", have calm and collected protagonists, and involve a series of interesting short stories with a philosophical bent to them.

styln styln says...

Both Kino's Journey and Mushishi have a mysterious character that travels to a variety of different places and meets many people who have problems. Both series have that tranquil feel and are episodic yet still manage to pull you in each episode.

Ran Ran says...

In both Mushishi and Kino's Journey, the main character travels from town to town, learning about its specificities and habits. Their stay in those places will affect how the people there live, whether they come by in order to fix a problem or try to intrude as few as possible. If you liked the one, the other will charm you as well.

Eonir Eonir says...

Mushishi and Kino's Journey are both series formed as a collection of short stories with a deeper meaning. Taboo topics that both series bring up in every episode are also something that helps them stand out in the ocean of worthless cliche anime mass-produced by studios that came up with one good idea in the past and try to survive on the wave of money.

kasuma kasuma says...

If you like the standalone episode format and the laid back story telling style of Kino's Journey then Mushishi should be right up your alley. In both series the main character's story is that of a wanderer and the interesting people, places and (in the case of Mushishi) creatures that she/he meet along the way. Neither of the series has much of any action. They both mainly focus on the interesting stories of the various locations that the characters visit. Mushishi should be a very enjoyable series for anyone that enjoyed Kino's Journey.

etherealam etherealam says...

Both Kino and Mushishi are very quiet, thoughtful series. Each are episodic in nature, so you can more or less watch them out of order. Both series have a main character who travels from place to place in each episode, quietly observing or helping others. Both of these series are a journey: Kino's Journey is a metaphorical journey into existentialism, and Mushishi is an imaginative journey into a quiet world where small supernatural creatures live silently among humans. The end of every episode of each series always seems to leave you in a thoughtful mood.

Sandineyes Sandineyes says...

Mushishi and Kino no Tabi feel very similar in style. While the very episodic nature of each show creates a slight similarity, the main character of each show, as well as the light and varied philosophical issues presented in each show create a very noticeable connection. Both Ginko and Kino are rather odd characters, and each act as apathetic observers at times, while becoming extremely involved at other times. Each are led by a similar sense of curiosity, but also act rather passive in pursuit of that curiosity, never stepping on anyone else's toes. In such ways, both shows are likely to evoke similar emotions and thoughts in viewers.

JayGee JayGee says...

It's quite uncanny how similar these series are. Kino's in an exploration of the human spirit, while Mushishi is an exploration of life itself. Both have some incredible things to say regarding both, and it is very easy to become fascinated with either series. If you love one, you'll surely love the other.

tasanime tasanime says...

Be prepared to be taken on an adventure with both Mushishi and Kino's Journey, two beautiful tales of personal journeys into new worlds, people and cultures. They successfully explore new lands and the dangers that come with, often helping others whilst learning that little bit more about themselves. Majoritively stand-alone episodes, both series have their own design, sub-culture and goals but will leave you feeling exactly the same way - enchanted.

TheHermit TheHermit says...

The parellels between these two series are stunning; both feature an episodic format, each one featuring a different supporting cast in a new area. Both feature an unassuming hero in a series of bizarre circumstances. Both have a highly naturalistic view that supports accepting the world as it is, with all its faults. They both even have a similar structure to their episodes where the events of each episode have a logic that is not immediately clear, sucking the viewer into the story by prompting them to ask, "Just what is going on here?"

SirNiXXon SirNiXXon says...

Kino no Tabi is an episodic anime about a traveller. Mushishi is an episodic anime about a wanderer. Both walk (or ride) around the world on a kind of a philosophical quest... Meeting different people. Getting to know different places. Learning different tales. Watching (or preventing) different tragedies. They travel because that's all they have. They travel for wander lust. They travel, ironically, 'cause there's nowhere to go. They travel so, one day, they may find themself on the road.

Mushishi's world is filled with color, Kino's world is a brown one. In Mushishi, people are subject, almost defenseless against something greater, bigger: nature itself. In Kino people are tortured and subject to their own nature. Still both are very similar shows, both are beautiful episodic tales about lone travellers and the world around them.

Fietsemaker Fietsemaker says...

When you look at both series there are obviously quite a bit of similarities. Both series have likeable, pure at heart and laidback protagonists, who will observe the world around them as they travel on in their endless journey, while providing a helping hand to others along the way. Both series will let you travel alongside these protagonist and see the beautiful and strange places they visit, each enchanting in their own way.

But there is something similar about the experience of watching these anime too. While the majority series intend to create a lot of excitement to keep the viewers' interest, Mushishi and Kino no Tabi provide a sometimes eerie but mostly relaxing experience that will make you feel at rest by the time the credits roll by. The fact that the stories are all episodic makes this effect even stronger, because at the end of each episode, everything is as it should be.

Despite the lack of action and thrills, both series will certainly grab and hold your attention. An intelligent plot, beautiful animation and scenery, unconventional storytelling and the strong feeling of satisfaction after every episode make these series into the masterpieces they truly are.

Merryberry Merryberry says...

Each episode deals with a new situation allowing the viewer to not be bogged down in trying to understand a detailed plot. It is this aspect which makes it easy to compare the similarities towards both Kino's Journey and Mushishi. The gentle flow of storytelling is a nice touch, focusing entirely on the event of the episode rather than building upon the characters much, allowing for a rather different style of anime that works amazingly.

Deus Deus says...

If you liked this animation, especially its pacing and detailed fantasy-oriented storytelling, you will like this one as well. Both are about travelers of sorts, each posessing a special wisdom beyond their years. Both stories have a progressive story, with very few recurring characters.

scenthr scenthr says...

I can see that many people have already made a lot of connections between these 2 series. For me the most important thing these 2 series teach you is acceptance of certain truths in life. Some people can accept certain things, some can't, some fight, some let it go, some are brave and some are not. You can't really judge any of the many views of the world, you cant say that something is universally true or false. It just is. And only for that single thing both of these anime are uniqe.

Adam Adam says...

When one talks of either Kino's Journey or Mushishi, one can't help but bring up the other. Both Ginko and Kino are travellers observing different humans and towns, which makes for both shows to be slow-paced, episodic, and great at storytelling. While Kino gets more involved in the countries he visits and Ginko is more detached, no one can honestly say that these aren't great companions for eachother. 

SilentWarlock SilentWarlock says...

Mushishi and Kino no Tabi are both stories about a traveler, but more importantly (in my mind), they are both slower-paced, serious, intelligent stories thick with atomosphere.  Both also have interesting, well developed main characters who's pasts you learn about as the story progresses.

Cetonis Cetonis says...

Kino's Journey and Mushishi are quite a bit alike. Both tell the story of a relatively indifferent traveler on a journey from one place to another. As such, each episode is its own self-contained tale about whatever place the traveler is now at, and these tales always find a way to give the viewer something to think about. Although they do this in different manners: Kino with harsh satire and Mushishi with a Miyazaki-esque sort of whimsy. Anybody who liked one should be very sure to try out the other.

ShiWeiLi ShiWeiLi says...

Mushishi and Kino's Journey have a truly special place in my mind when it comes to anime.  Both channel the same type of energy, a wise level-minded protagonist journeying from place to place to solve problems and mysteries that often tie in to our own situations in the real world.  Both series are admittedly lacksidaisical in pacing, but those interested in directors with a philosophical pechant in storytelling won't mind a bit.  It should be an easy reccomendation for fans of one series to check the other out.

cassiesheepgirl cassiesheepgirl says...

Mushishi and Kino's Journey share a lot of similarities. Both are quite slow paced episodic series with a similar sort of vibe about them. Both Ginko and Kino travel around, never staying in one place too long. While Ginko is a medecine seller and actively helps the people that he comes into contact with, neither of the two series' protagonists get particularly involved with those they meet. While Kino is a more philosophical and heavy series, if you enjoyed one you may well like the other.

unitzero unitzero says...

With their slow paced episodic feel both Kino's Journey and Mushishi could have very well been written by the same author. Each episode is a self contained story usually in a form that can most accurately be described as a fable. The main characters in both series are travelers who experience numerous traditions and cultures from episode to episode. Both lead characters share a similar observational and calculated personality that remains consistent from situation to situation. I feel that if I person likes one of these anime then they will most likely enjoy the other.

JAhU JAhU says...

Both Mushishi and Kino no Tabi fit under travelling adventure genre, but its not the only thing those have in common. Even though Mushishi has fantasy elements and Ginko (Mushishi's protagonist) has a very different personality from Kino (Kino no Tabi tile charater) those anime feel very alike. In both main characters travel and meet people with different problems. That is probably what those anime are about, which is people and their problems. It might not sound too exciting, but in truth it is. If you liked one of those shows, you should definitely watch the other.

P.S. Mushishi is more about individuals, while Kino no Tabi is more about groups of people.

TheMajor5 TheMajor5 says...

Does taking a journey throughout the land, simply to gain new experiences, sound freaking awesome?  Good, because that is what these two anime have in common.  A view in the daily life of our main protagonist as they go about exploring new countries and phenomena.  Each episode is a different experience and as the journey goes on, the tales become more grand.  Both anime are eye-opening and imaginative to say the least.  Just take my word for it and watch them both, you'll thank me later.

RedCrossRobbery RedCrossRobbery says...

If you watched either Kino's Journey or Mushishi, and were drawn in my the depressing, and deep messages that each episode has to say, then the other will provide that exact same feeling for you. Kino's Journey and Mushishi are the perfect compliments for eachother if you're looking to have an anime spree, or just something new. They are both episodic, depressing, full of strong motifs, and show off strong, silent characters. Whereas Kino is all about a futuristic world, and the horrible stuff she sees, Mushishi is about ghost like beings, and the horrible stuff he tries to cure.

Deer50 Deer50 says...

They're both episodic anime that center around someone who travels from town to town and they usually wind up helping someone through situations at each stop. Both stories have beautiful animation and offer up "life lessons."

kurovalte kurovalte says...

Both Have the same calm and refective atmosphere and both allow you to make your own judgements on each particular situation the main characters come across. In both series the main character, Kino in Kino no Tabi and Ginko in Mushishi are the only realy charcaters but all the episodic characters are really developed well in the 20 mins given to them.

Both anime are awesome and if you liked one then i'm pretty sure you would like the other.

ahou ahou says...

If you like either Mushishi or Kinos journey then you will definetly like the other.They are both about a person traviling and seeing various things/meeting various ppl. Also They both have very much the same feel, a new story about every episode or so, but a back story connecting it all.

eaper eaper says...

These series are both mostly episodic shows with a similar feel that follow the main character from village/country to village/country. If you enjoy seeing different cultures, or the feel of the series, you should check the other one out.

DeletedProfile DeletedProfile says...

has a similar feeling to it ,melanholic but serious one with some fantasy elements . i could compare only theese two animes with each other 

andyhime1 andyhime1 says...

Kino's Journey focuses on the main character observing the world and places she visits without really actively trying to get involved. Mushishi, however, the protagonist's reason for his travels is to help people and bring about some sort of change (though there is another reason as well...).

Personally, I think Mushishi is a bit more mature of a show than Kino is. I think both bring up interesting philosophical points that aren't blatantly obvious, while being realistic. Well as realistic as one can get with Mushi and talking motorcycles that is. 

Both animes are also set up in a way that the episodes stand pretty much alone, Kino does this slightly more so than Mushishi. There are two episodes in particular that really bring up past occurrences but it isn't THAT big of a deal if one does not watch it in order.

CloneCommando CloneCommando says...

Both shows are very episodic in nature, with each episode being a self contained story basically. They are also fairly slow paced, with the main character traveling around from place to place either helping people or exploring. Both shows also have somewhat of a philisophical undertone and some sort of message to impart to the viewer.

Condorbrave Condorbrave says...

Both are Romance, the girls are masculine and strong, comedy ^-^ !

Both are fun and school life !

I think those two anime similar more than any 2 anime ^-^

consprice consprice says...

They characters are both travelers, and through their travels many unrealistic yet extremely thought provoking events occur.

Rfsancho Rfsancho says...

These two are definitely a rec made in heaven. With a very peaceful atmosphere, very well spoken and chill episodic presentation, and a very easy on the eyes simplistic art style, they are bound to suit your fancy equally.

ashman711 ashman711 says...

both series seem rather surreal, the protagonists characters both travel from town to town obsverving, rarely getting too involved unless necessary. both series can be slow paced but you won't leave disappointed and will leave satisfied. 

Bren Bren says...

Both animes are very calm. If you like one you will like the other. You also come to love Kino just as you come to love Ginko and vice versa.

sci sci says...

Mushishi is Kino's Journey, but with a focus on exploring nature, natural phenomenon, etc.

Kino's Journey is Mushishi, but with a focus on exploring human nature. 

If you enjoyed one I literally can not fathom why you wouldn't enjoy the other. 

lessiehanamoray lessiehanamoray says...

Both of these shows are extremely mellow journeys of a traveller interacting with the world around them as strange events occur.  More than anything though, it really is the gentle tone.

Daisuki Daisuki says...

Both series share protagonists who continuously wander while observing their ever-changing environments. Having an episodic format where each episode may stand alone, Mushishi and Kino's Journey presents their audience with thought-provoking, sometimes heartwarming, and sometimes heartbreaking experiences.

Allynna Allynna says...

Both are centered around the main character traveling around and seeing unique sights each with a story. In Kino's Journey, the mc travels around to different countries that have their own hypothetial situations that sometimes express underlying messages. In Mushushi, the mc travels around helping people solve issues caused by special creatures that are usually invisible to the eye. These creatues cause different phenomena. Both of these anime focus on the mood and many episodes lead you wondering if the ending was considered a happy one or not. It depends on interpretation. 

Haibane Renmei

Haibane Renmei

A young woman quietly falls to the earth, escorted by a solitary crow. This sort of dream, as many other before have dreamed, comes just before being reborn as a Haibane, a charcoal-winged angel. On the outskirts of the walled-in city lies Old Home, a haven for Haibane to study, live, and learn, while waiting for their chance to ascend to the heavens and escape the confines of their new world. Rakka is the newest inhabitant of Old Home who wants nothing more than to remember her past and discover the secrets of her kind. Together with Reki, Kuu and plenty of other new friends, Rakka will laugh, explore, and search for the meaning of their existence in the process.

23 votes

I agree

Reasons you might like Haibane Renmei...

klafka klafka says...

Both Haibane Renmei and Kino no Tabi share a similar narrative style, both making good use of silence. They also are in some sense about self-discovery and consist of an inner journey externalized.

CheesyP18 CheesyP18 says...

I found both of these series to be amazing. Each is told in a laid back and relaxing manner. Although Kino's Travels has a bit of action in it, it doesn't affect the viewer much. Both of these series have no real plot, its just told episode by episode on the fly. Different kinds of journeys and destinies are presented in both Haibane Renmei and Kino's Travels but all have the same basic feel, as if you're learning something deep from watching.

forfeit forfeit says...

For me, Serial Experiments Lain, Haibane Renmei and Kino no Tabi are considered the “philosophers triad”, not only because they make you think with their exotic and original plot, but also because the story looks like it was made out of dreams, or nightmares. They share the fact that the story is not exactly what you think it is, the puzzle will never get finished and information will always be missing, the characters are original and develop by learning about the surrounding world, and the animation looks alike, mostly because of the colors.

Fei Fei says...

I agree with Forfeit about Kino no Tabi and Haibane Renmei being part of the philosopher's triad. Both titles make use of girls with little to no memory. I could easily see the world of Haibane Renmei being one of the places Kino might encounter in her journey through beautiful lands.

Rhesian Rhesian says...

Both Haibane and Kino's are extremely thought-provoking, profound series that will sit in your head for weeks if not months. The prior comment about "Philosopher's Anime" is right on target. Haibane deals more with the individual's relationship with the meaning of their existance, while Kino's explores this relationship with a nation/culture. Haibane is the deeper series, but what Kino's packs in each episode is masterful. Both highly recommended and in my top 5!

Cilas Cilas says...

Both Haibane Renmei and Kino's Journey have that "short yet complete" quality. A lot of anime drag the story out to a high episode count and either become repetitive and old or end still feeling incomplete; however, both of these anime have a completeness to them that is rarely encountered. Especially considering their mutual 13 episode count. After completing both of these series, you are left with that bittersweet taste that only a well thought-out series can deliver.

Kastrophee Kastrophee says...

On an episode by episode basis we are told two amazing, intricate and touching stories. This story can be called a journey, floating down the river the events shape and form so perfectly a brilliant and deep tale. Both Haibane and Kino suit each other well, but even if you haven't seen either you should pick them up.

Ran Ran says...

Both Kino's Journey and Haibane Renmei have a similar slow pace, and show off places and their traditions, superstitions or stories, rather then focusing on the characters - at least in the first half of the anime. Kino's Journey has more action to it, featuring fights and dangers; whereas Haibane Renmei is more focused on the character development during the second half. If you found this anime beautiful, you'll love the other too.

Sheex Sheex says...

Both Kino no Tabi and Haibane Renmei are fabulous allegorical stories that delve into the human experience. Each series possess its own unique, subtle forms of symbolism that can be appreciated for their genius on a number of levels, most importantly being their un-intrusive manner. For those who enjoyed the reflective nature of one of the series, I'd highly recommend checking out the other -- they go hand-in-hand.

Dragonclaws Dragonclaws says...

Both Kino's Journey and Haibane Renmei are slow, philosophic anime with fantastic settings. Even though Haibane Renmei is a bit more of a serial drama than the more standalone Kino's Journey, they share similar contemplative themes.

Pipian Pipian says...

It's been said before by others, but I'll say it again. Both Haibane Renmei and Kino's Journey go quite well together. In addition to the similarity in subject matter (both series have something to say about what it means to be human), the art, characters, and even depth of both series are quite alike.

To focus a bit more on the content however, in both series we see a strong lead female character who is not a typical female character, and thus lends to a sort of philosophical empathy. Indeed, both Kino and Rakka play a similar role in playing the surrogate to the viewer themselves, asking the questions about society that we so very much wish to see answered.

Finally, the depth and nature of the two universes are very similar. While Kino's Journey certainly varies the world up a bit by having numerous different lands, both series have an air of the unfamiliarly familiar, and a look into a past (or future!) that might have been. They won't make you ponder psychologically like Lain might, but both dare to pose key philosophical questions that the viewer is left to answer on their own.

Jeremymill Jeremymill says...

Both this animes take a rather laid back examination of life. They are very beatiful and deep and share a similar mood.

Nocturnalgloria Nocturnalgloria says...

Haibane Renmei and Kino's Journey are quiet and thoughtful productions that take place in a dreamy environment. Both have a young female lead who unravels the secrets of the unknown world. Haibane Renmei leaves much to the viewer's imagination as it explores a micro-cosmos of sorts while Kino's Journey focuses on several independent shots that use the theme of travelling to cover a wide narrative universe. These are anime that are very original and refreshing in their philosophical yet un-complicated approach to story telling and are bound to capture the same kind of viewers.

ohtetsuo ohtetsuo says...

Fans of Kino's Journey will be doubt be drawn to Tomokazu Tokoro's visually stunning and philosophically inquisitive Haibane Renmei. Exploring many real-life themes in a whimsical and strange world, Renmei, much like Kino's, focuses on one's journey outward into unknown surroundings and unfamiliar feelings.

MoonSlayer MoonSlayer says...

Haibane Renmei and Kino no Tabi are both slow, and they make you think about life a lot. Nothing about these series are loud or colourful, but they still manage to catch your attention and keep it.

Omurqi Omurqi says...

The main thing Haibane Renmei and Kino's Journey have in common, is that they are both largely symbolic, thought provoking anime. While they contain lots of symbolism and a couple of depressing moments, they manage to keep most of the series reasonably light and therfor easier to watch and think about the symbolism. While Haibane Renmei is plot-driven, and Kino's Journey episodic, I think they fit together surprisingly well. If you want something to think about, without watching something incredibly heavy, give this one a shot!

Gundevil Gundevil says...

Kino's Journey and Haibane Renmei are animes that make you think about the meaning of life and death. Both touch on existentialist themes through finely tuned, slow-paced narratives. Where Kino's Journey is episodic and focuses on man's interactions with the society, Haibane Renmei tells a fascinating story that focuses on man's inner struggle to find redemption and forgiveness. I highly recommend both tantalizing series.

skyhack skyhack says...

Haibane Renmei and Kino's Journey share a laid back feel, with the sepia tones, slow pacing, and beautiful music.

Haibane Renmei is an allegorical title, one that the creator, Yoshitoshi Abe, put a lot of heart and soul into.

A quiet masterpiece of storytelling, Haibane Renmei will make you think, and make you want to come back.

cassiesheepgirl cassiesheepgirl says...

Kino's Journey and Haibane Renmei have the same sort of feeling about them. Both share a similar visual quality and are very slow paced. Both also explore more melancholy subject matters that often have moving effects on those who watch them. If you liked one, then definitely check out the other.

maSProductions maSProductions says...

Both Kino's Journey and Haibane Renmei are animes with a subtel mystery and well construted dialog. Both of these anime give you a good since of relief and enjoyment for the silent moments in life.

SadisticTendencies SadisticTendencies says...

Both Haibane Renmei and Kino's Journey initiate their courses as episodic shows only to develop into stories that actually need to be watched in proper order. They share the simple yet beautiful animation style, the strong female protagonists and the terrifying ability to be emotionally engaging... on a level far beyond the anime average.

mu6 mu6 says...

Although Haibane Renmei and Kino no Tabi have very different themes, both place the viewer into the role of a passive spectator. You're invited to form your own opinion about the stories told; neither bothers with over-explaining everything. If you enjoy thought-provoking anime with a slow pace fit for reflection (and gorgeous visuals), both are highly recommended.

subparalien subparalien says...

These stories both have a similar feel. There is a mysterious air to both worlds, that is never fully explained but doesn't get in the way of the story. Haibane Renmei probably has more character development.

Jing: King of Bandits

Jing: King of Bandits

Join the king of thieves Jing and his plumed partner Kir as they seek out the greatest treasures in the world - and steal them. From desert bandit fortresses to the innermost sanctums of kings and queens, if there's a magnificent treasure to be had, you can be sure Jing has his eyes (and later his hands) on it.

10 votes

I agree

Reasons you might like Jing: King of Bandits...

kasuma kasuma says...

If you like the standalone episode format and the laid back story telling style of Kino's Journey then King of Bandit Jing should be right up your alley. In both series the main character's story is that of a wanderer. There is not consistent thread that links any of the episodes to each other. Both have a very relaxed story telling style. King of Bandit Jing does have more action and humor than Kino's Journey, but it should still a very enjoyable series for anyone that enjoyed Kino's Journey.

undefined013 undefined013 says...

Both series focus on the a wanderer and his/her companion. The episodic nature that both series share make them easy to follow while at the same time quite deep. The main characters are very indpendent people who live by their own law as they go from place to place.

Hikaru Hikaru says...

If you like the standalone episode format and the mild and easy-going story telling style then, join the king of thieves Jing and his partner Kir as they seek/travel the world for great treasures, solves problems and confront issues of other towns in King of Bandit Jing. There is inconsistent stories and limited number of episodes that have 2 to even 3 parts.

While both series have the main charather wondering with a companion live and travel by their own laws and morals. King of Bandit Jingdoes have more action and humor than Kino's Journey, but still a very enjoyable series for anyone that enjoyed Kino's Journey.

Kari5 Kari5 says...

Both these shows have a pair of friends, one human the other not, who travel together on different adventures. The episodes are usually not connected, since the main character is always traveling, and seeing different places, peoples, and customs where ever they go. They are also both slice of life animes.

Aznmonster Aznmonster says...

Both these animes are about a young person who only have one ally in their journys.These animes take you places where adventure is waiting to happen,wheather the protagonist wants it or not!

ShiWeiLi ShiWeiLi says...

Kino's Journey and King of Bandit Jing are actually shockingly similar in essence.  Both are highly episodic tales of a wandering rogue wise beyond their years and their loudmouthed anthropomorphic sidekick.  The main difference is in the overall direction of the anime themselves.  King of Bandits Jing tends to not take itself too seriously, and uses more slapstick gags.  Kino's Journey tends to be a little heavier.  Both have a great sense of style and worldbuilding and are highly reccomended, though perhaps Kino's Journey a bit more.

Omurqi Omurqi says...

With the traveling from country to country, each having a specific story to them, Kino's Journey and Jing have the same way of episodic storytelling. Jing is like a childish version of Kino's Journey, being a lot sillier and not nearly as thought-provoking, but just as entertaining to watch.

TheMajor5 TheMajor5 says...

Kino and Jing both explore different cities with vastly different cultures.  Though their goals differ, the main characters travel from place to place experiencing mysterious towns and piecing together the backgrounds of each town.  One cannot simply watch one without watching the other.

OpalDjinn OpalDjinn says...

Both feature fantastical worlds, with similiar story-telling styles, and a main character with a companion, riding a motorcycle from one fantastical place to another, not to mention what I consider to be a related art style.

KarmicFairy KarmicFairy says...

The episodic style of King of Bandit Jing reminded me a lot of Kino's Journey. Both are wandering from place to place and there is an advenure in each place. 

Spice and Wolf

Spice and Wolf

Since long ago, the wolf goddess Holo has honored a contract to bless the rural village of Pasloe with fertile harvests; and in return she has been celebrated and worshipped by the villagers. But as mankind advances, the people have begun to take command of nature for themselves and have made their own god to worship. Holo finds that she is paid little more than lip service, if not outright mocked; and considering the contract annulled, she takes human form and enlists the aid of a passing merchant, Kraft Lawrence, to return to her home in the snowy forests to the north. As they journey together, Kraft finds that he has plenty to learn from this capricious god, and she from him as well.

10 votes

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Reasons you might like Spice and Wolf...

kamikun kamikun says...

Both series have a very original and refreshing take on the fantasy genre, without the cliché swords and sorcery affairs. They are the kind of "stories" that entertain and ALSO leave you thinking a little after each episode.

And the main characters are somewhat similar too. Both shows have a traveler type character and a companion as the protagonists. In Kino´s Journey it is a pure traveler accompained by a talking motorcycle, and in Spice and Wolf it is a merchant traveler accompained by a fox(y) god.

Each one of them is very original. I think I already said so, but I will say it again. Both shows have that unique fantasy feeling that makes the "fantasy" seem real and organic, not like a mere invention.

Kino´s Journey deals with moral dilemmas, and Spice and Wolf with economical profits and wit (yes, you heard well, an interesting anime about BARTERING, I am still suprised that was possible...)

In the differences department, the only thing that comes to mind is that Spice and Wolf has a pleasurable comedic and romantic side, while Kino no Tabi prefers a well executed dramatic approach.

Sheex Sheex says...

Both Spice and Wolf and Kino no Tabi carry very subtle, atmospheric feels that play on the intricacies of human interaction. Where Kino no Tabi would be classified as a more philosophical piece, however, Spice and Wolf centers around the faculties of romance and plays down its intellectualistic qualities in favor of more emotional ones. Each, however, tends to be rather serious in nature, and both carry a relatively mature quality about them that might put off younger audiences. Even so, if you've enjoyed one definitely give the other a shot - I can almost guarantee your enjoyment.

Nocturnalgloria Nocturnalgloria says...

Kino's Journey and Spice and Wolf tell stories in which travelling is of the utmost importance, in both there is a rather unlikely duo who must cross many lands during the course of the narrative, encountering all sorts of adventures along the way. With this said, Kino's Journey is very thoughtful and philosophical while Spice and Wolf is more conventional.

Oehr Oehr says...

Both series have a similar ambience and the overall style of animation has many things in common. Also, the protagonists are traveling throughout the series. So if you like travelling anime series with concluded episodes, go ahead and watch it, you'll love it!

Uriel1988 Uriel1988 says...

''Spice and Wolf'' and ''Kino's Journey'' are both very atmospheric and soothing anime that use the theme of journeying as a plot-device to trigger storylines and convey messages. So in short, both series have a similar premise.

That being said. There's one major difference between both series:

Kino's Journey is a more event driven series that always builds itself up towards a moral lesson or a message for every episode. Spice and Wolf focuses more on the characters and how they react to situations around them.

Both are excellent anime. And if you watched one and enjoyed it, you may want to give the other a try because of the similarity in premise and art-direction may prove appealing. While the shows differ from each other enough to make for different types of experiences that are (about) equally excellent.

dac69 dac69 says...

An odd couple of travelers, alone against a world of other people trying to survive how they can.  Both shows are atmospheric and serene, showing the goodness and evil of the world, as well as the complexity that causes people to behave in wildly different ways.

Omurqi Omurqi says...

Kino's Journey and Spice & Wolf are both slow-paced shows about a journey and traveling, driven by an engaging story. Instead of focussing on action and plot twists, these anime are all about the meetings and conversations the main characters encounter. There is something interesting going on every episode, but don't be expecting explosions and robocops in these shows.

AirCommodore AirCommodore says...

Spice and Wolf (both seasons) and Kino's Journey are slow-paced anime about a journey that two characters go on (one of which is human). Each place that they visit has different customs, and most of the entertainment value comes from the differences in places (Kino's comes directly from these differences, while S&W's comes with how the protagonists deal with the differences in order to profit). Both use a muted, earthy palette.

eaper eaper says...

These series mix together a bit of fantasy, a set of travelling compainions, and a large number of different cultures. If you like seeing characters interacting with different cultures, these series work well together.

subparalien subparalien says...

Both focus on a journey. The pace is slow but engaging. Overall, there is a fairly small cast of characters

The Diary of Tortov Roddle

The Diary of Tortov Roddle

His name is Tortov Roddle, and he is a traveler from Tortalia. Along with his unusually large companion of a pig, the slender Tortov travels from place to place, always finding a new and beautiful adventure at his destination. From islands carried on the backs of frogs, to delightful cafes, to movie theaters and giant bears, there's a wonderful story to tell in the diary of Tortov Roddle.

9 votes

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Reasons you might like The Diary of Tortov Roddle...

sothis sothis says...

Truly, I don't think I often find two things that fit together as well as Kino no Tabi and Diary of Tortov Roddle. Watching either for 10 minutes would prove my point. Each contains a protagonist that wanders from p lace to place, looking for new cultures and adventures. But beyond the plot similarities there's also a similar sense of wonder that comes with both, that left me wanting more. Yes, they are both slow, but moving in their own ways. Admittedly, Kino is a LOT more dark than Diary, but I still think you'd appreciate both.

styln styln says...

Kino's Journey and the Diary of Tortov Roddle are both slow series which involve a traveler that travels from town to town with a companion. Each encounter these characters face is different from the one before and after, and consist of unique and different experiences.

Ran Ran says...

In both Kino's Journey and The Diary of Tortov Roddle, the main character travels from place to place to discover the world, and tries to gather memories and learn from his travels without interfering too much with the native's lives. The character means to just observe, although their presence can't be unseen; yet, they still influence the situation at times.

tasanime tasanime says...

Similarly these two anime explore the world, purpose and a place within whilst taking the viewer on a magical journey of discovery. Tortov serves as a beautiful, slightly more abstract introduction to this theme of exploration but is equally as pleasurable in terms of its aims, whereas Kino's Journey is a more in depth delve into this contemplative theme. Either way, both will appeal to a similar type of viewer.

JAhU JAhU says...

If you enjoyed Kino's Journey, you should watch Diary of Tortov Roddle too. Those two shows are very similar, so i'll be easier for me to talk about their differences rather then their similarities. First of DoTR is (unfortunately) very short. It is also very surreal, for example the main character travels on a giant pig. Also the stories in DoTR are much lighter (it doesn't mean they're bad).

Deus Deus says...

If you liked this animation, consider these two pieces very much alike in their pacing, subdued styles and fantasy-oriented universes. Both are about travelers experiencing the outside world.

cassiesheepgirl cassiesheepgirl says...

Both of these series follow a lone traveller as they explore their world. While Kino is a longer anime and deals with more serious concepts, if you enjoyed the quiet nature of one then you may like the other.

Omurqi Omurqi says...

Shows about traveling and experiencing very peculiar things on the way. Both Kino's Journey and Tortov's Diary are anime with the same themes. Although Kino's Journey goes a lot further with the idea (which is to be expected, 20min against 2min episodes), they will appeal to a similar audience. If you liked one of these for how they approached the wonders of traveling, definitely watch the other!

Laziness Laziness says...

Los dos animes son protagonizados por un viajero y su montura/acompañante, los cuales se dedican a observar distintas zonas pobladas por gente peculiar. Los dos generan un sentimiento cálido al verlos, y sus atmósferas parecen las de un cuento de hadas.

Shigofumi

Shigofumi

There are some things that can only be said after death. Aided by a talking staff that thinks it is alive, Fumika delivers Shigofumi, the last words and feelings of the dead in the form of letters, to their addressees. Whether they are letters of apology, revenge, or simply a final farewell, she always brings them to their destination. Delivering Shigofumi is not always an easy job; as some people refuse to believe such things as letters from the dead are possible, while others are afraid of what these letters might contain. But the mail must go through; what the recipients decide to do with it afterwards is up to them.

8 votes

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Reasons you might like Shigofumi...

hurin hurin says...

The relationship and personalities (and choice of weapon) of Kino/Hermes and Fumika/Kanaka are very similar. Also the main character will spend time philosophizing about the situations they encounter.

etherealam etherealam says...

The main characters are strikingly similar. Each series is about a quiet, unmoving heroine and her talkative (inanimate?) object of a companion. Both heroines are quiet, yet surprisingly carrry a gun. If you liked Kino's Journey, but found it to move a little too slowly for you, give Shigofumi a try! It is less thought-provoking, but its story has more continuity to it than that of Kino's Journey and keeps you coming back for more.

seasong seasong says...

Both of these anime revolve around competent, gun wielding women who act a bit like guys. They have an episodic feel to them, although Shigofumi is less so. Also, neither of the main characters judge what they witness, they simply observe. Overall they both have a similar feel and if you liked one you should like the other.

JAhU JAhU says...

Both Shigofumi and Kino no Tabi have a similar main character. Fumika and Kino are both silent girls with somewhat similar attitude towards world and the philosophy of not getting involved in events surrounding them. Both are accompanied in they journeys\\work by a talking item (Kino's motor an Fumika's staff). Although Shigofumi takes place in modern japan and Kino no Tabi takes place in a fantasy world, they both contain interesting (but different) drama. If you liked one, you should check the other one as well.

P.S. Did I mentioned that both are quite grim?

convexity convexity says...

Undoubtedly, those who loved Shigofumi will love Kino's Journey as well, and vice versa. First released as light novels of the same names, both Shigofumi and Kino's Journey feature rather similar main characters -- Fumika and Kanaka, Kino and Hermes. The two girls and the two others are each in a relationship of a wanderer and a guide; the girls roam about, from people to people, from place to place, with their purposes. They have their personal history revealed along the way, but for most of the story, they live the life of wise observers:  indifferent but thoughtful ones who can reflect upon the very question of human nature.

Cetonis Cetonis says...

If there is any "spiritual successor" to Kino's Journey out there, it is Shigofumi. Each follows an observer and her inanimate partner through a variety of individual stories, most involving some sort of social commentary, irony, message, etc. It's worth noting that Shigofumi has more of an overarching plot than Kino, with a few recurring characters and a dedicated development of Fumika's backstory over time. Whether this is ultimately for the better or not is up to the individual, but in the end anyone who enjoyed one of these series should surely find the other to their liking as well.

AirCommodore AirCommodore says...

Shigofumi is like Kino's Journey 2.0, with a similarly-characterized quiet/contemplative girl with a gun and her rather animated inanimate companion. Additionally, each deals with similar themes about humanity in a pseudo-episodic format.

snivets snivets says...

Both shows are heavy on philosophy and themes of morality when humans find themselves in extreme situations. The heaviness of the themes is lightened by the amusing interaction of a chatty non-human object and a stoic girl who prefers observing to participating in events she encounters.

Girls' Last Tour

Girls' Last Tour

Two young girls travel through a desolate landscape in search of food, water, and fuel for their precious Kettenkrad motorbike. Although the world they wander through is a lonely one, Chito and Yuuri find happiness in the little things they encounter on their journey: a forgotten supply of military rations, a hot bath thanks to a leaky pipe in an abandoned power plant, or the discovery of a lone autonomous robot protectively guarding a solitary fish. Even if human civilization is dead, these two can always find something to live for.

5 votes

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Reasons you might like Girls' Last Tour...

Rascal Rascal says...

If you like a nice adventure through a different world with two lovable characters bantering over random things and talking to the interesting people that live in said unique world that the travelers must survive in, these two are great for that. They also both feature a motorbike, which is always nice.

starlightdreams starlightdreams says...

If you liked watching one of these anime, I would say you will probaby like watching the other one as well.

MistLiigh MistLiigh says...

Both are largely laid-back journeys, moving from place to place in a world that is generally bleaker than what most of us know. They include many ruminations on life and the world that cover various parts of a moral spectrum.

ElSoloMar ElSoloMar says...

Traveling enlessly and lonely through through diverce essenarios while sorounded by a decadent high-tech world. They rarely encouter any person. Provides a very relaxing and couzy feeling.

GeminiRabbit GeminiRabbit says...

Both of these shows involve one or two protagonists traveling the world on a motorbike, and generally have a more relaxing feel to them. In Kino's journey other people are encounters a lot more often than in Girls last Tour.     

Allison and Lillia

Allison and Lillia

It is the year 3287, and the countries of Roxche and Soux-Beil have been feuding for one hundred and thirty years. In the country of Roxche, the young air force pilot Allison has just reunited with her childhood friend Wil; and together, they are about to embark on a grand adventure. Whether it's ending the war between the countries with the help of a legendary treasure, traveling into hostile territory, or helping restore a princess's right to the throne, Allison and Wil will complete their missions with kindness and honor.

4 votes

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Reasons you might like Allison and Lillia...

sothis sothis says...

It seems a given to make this recommendation, given that Kino and Allison were made by the same person; it shows, greatly. Both anime are slice-of-life stories with somewhat of a moral twist (more so in Kino). I found Kino to be the far more compelling of the two.

Merryberry Merryberry says...

It does seem that stories that are gentle and slow in their telling appear to be a common trait with these two series. As such you are drawn into the stories with relative ease and enjoyment, resulting in you able to sit back and relax. Well worth watching both in their adventures.

JAhU JAhU says...

Both anime are based on books by Keiichi Sigsawa. Probably because of this they have a similar feel, though adaptation of Allison and Lillia into anime didn't go equally well as adaptation of Kino's Journey. Anyway if you seen one you should definitely check the other.

chii chii says...

If you are looking for something slow yet still interesting to watch look no further than these 2 titles. Allison and Lillia has a tiny bit more of a plot than Kino's Journey but both have adventures traveling across a lot of land exploring their vast worlds. check one out if you enjoyed the other

Kaiba

Kaiba

Welcome to a world in which memories can be transferred from body to body; old painful memories can be removed and replaced with new ones, and the poor sell their bodies to the rich to survive. Waking up one day, Kaiba finds himself in a strange place with no memories of his past and a mysterious hole in his chest; the only clue as to his identity is a locket with a picture of a girl hanging from his neck. Armed with this token, Kaiba must now travel across the galaxy to discover who he is and what the girl in the locket means to him; however, his journey will bring him into contact with many people whose lives have been tragically affected by the manipulation of memories. All too soon it becomes clear that something is very wrong with this world…

4 votes

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Reasons you might like Kaiba...

xaemar xaemar says...

Kino's Journey and Kaiba have many characteristics in common.

Both are about a traveler exploring many different and strange places. You will see many societies who live a different way that we are.

Both are really intelligent and will make you think! They contain philosophical thoughts about the meaning of life and many other things.

Also, both have a non typical animation and all about these two animes is original!

For conclusion, if you liked one, be sure to check the other!

sloggerK sloggerK says...

Unusual characters, unusual locales, unusual worlds. Serious and contemplative but lighthearted and friendly at the same time. Such are Kaiba and Kino's Journey.

VivisQueen VivisQueen says...

Like Kino no Tabi, Kaiba explores the moral dilemmas of life through incredibly poignant and often moving situations via the idea of exploring different worlds. Kaiba has more of a linear story than Kino no Tabi, which is episodic, but it has got a strong episodic phase in the beginning. Kaiba is also far more experimental where animation is concerned and has bizarre characters, but like Kino no Tabi, it will be a very emotional and thought-provoking journey.

sleepsss sleepsss says...

Both series are thoughtful and insightful works which revolve around fantastical journeys. As the main characters travel from place to place, they observe various types of places and people which reflect aspects of the human condition and life itself. Both shows have a unique art style and story telling which immerses you in the strange worlds of the characters. Additionally these series can feel surreal at times and present information through more of a "show don't tell" style. If you're looking for something thought-provoking and you like either show already, I'd highly recommend the other. 

Daughter of Twenty Faces

Daughter of Twenty Faces

Eleven-year-old Chizuko Mikamo is a victim; she is aware that her cruel relatives have been slowly poisoning her, but she can't do anything to escape her fate except starve herself. Luckily for her, the infamous thief, Twenty Faces, has arrived to steal her household's most valuable treasure: Chizuko herself. Alongside Twenty Faces, Ken, Skipper and the rest of the gang, Chizuko travels to exotic lands and strange places in search of valuable treasure. But, as she soon discovers, there's much more to the mysterious Twenty Faces than she could ever have bargained for...

4 votes

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Reasons you might like Daughter of Twenty Faces...

Omurqi Omurqi says...

While both stories do have elements in common (such as a certain seriousness), the only reason I'm making this recommendation is based on the fact that both Kino and Chiko have very similar personalities. They are both young girls who are surprisingly cool and collected for their age. They are bright, sharp and agile children with an amazing ability to learn and adapt. Chiko does have more emotional depth than Kino, but both characters are a joy to follow.

DeathCrunch DeathCrunch says...

Both stories star sheltered, yet incredibly mature, young female leads on their journeys to discover the world and themselves.

RedCrossRobbery RedCrossRobbery says...

Kino's Journey and Daughter of Twenty Faces may not have similar themes in terms of "plot", they do both have very similar main characters. Strong, quiet, brilliant young females who really stand out as original, and interesting characters.

Sianeka Sianeka says...

Both Kino's Journey and The Daughter of Twenty Faces have a similar feel to the story and atmosphere, and it isn't just because the two lead protagonists in each are resourceful young females.

Both girls are coming-of-age while traveling and both like to remain semi-detatched from the world, participating while observing. Kino's goal is to visit and learn about all kinds of new people, customs and places while not involving herself; Chiko's motto in Twenty Faces is "look, listen, and think for yourself" as she studies the people and situations around her.

Both anime share a serious undertone and bigger underlying themes.  If you enjoyed one, I think you'd also enjoy checking out the other.