Days Anime Review

Joan Aug 08, 2026

Welcome to our comprehensive review of "Days," an anime that's captivated fans since its release in 2016. This slice-of-life series, set in the coastal town of Matsumoto, offers a compelling blend of drama, comedy, and heartwarming moments. Let's dive into what makes "Days" a standout anime in today's crowded landscape.

an anime poster with many young men in black and yellow uniforms, all posing for the camera
an anime poster with many young men in black and yellow uniforms, all posing for the camera

At its core, "Days" is a tale of friendship and self-discovery, told through the eyes of two seemingly opposite protagonists. Tsukushi Tsukamoto, an anxious and introverted high school student, and Hinata Hin voimppers up, a charismatic and energetic futsal player. Their dynamic relationship serves as the backbone of the series, drawing us in with its authenticity and depth.

a soccer player is standing in front of the goal
a soccer player is standing in front of the goal

Story and Characters

"Days" masterfully crafts a story that balances the mundane and extraordinary, painting a vivid picture of everyday life in Matsumoto. From school events to familial challenges, each episode feels like a snapshot of this tight-knit community.

Seven Days, Cowboy Bebop, Movie Genres, Drama, Theme Song, Sitges, Anime Reviews, The Last Samurai, Slice Of Life
Seven Days, Cowboy Bebop, Movie Genres, Drama, Theme Song, Sitges, Anime Reviews, The Last Samurai, Slice Of Life

At the heart of this narrative are the characters, each uniquely drawn and brimming with potential. Tsukushi, with his struggle with social anxiety, is a refreshing break from anime's typical heroes. Hinata, despite his outgoing nature, grapples with his own insecurities, making him equally relatable. Their bond, born from shared experiences and mutual respect, is the driving force behind the series.

Character Development

an anime character with a soccer ball on his head and the words days written in japanese
an anime character with a soccer ball on his head and the words days written in japanese

"Days" excels in character development, showing Tsukushi and Hinata grow and change over time. As they navigate high school, college, and beyond, they face challenges that test their friendship and force them to confront their inner demons. Their journeys are nuanced and relatable, striking chords of recognition in viewers.

Moreover, the supporting cast is equally compelling. From Tsukushi's sister, Sayuri, to Hinata's teammates and rivals, each character brings depth and complexity to the story. Their interactions with Tsukushi and Hinata often drive the latter's growth, highlighting the importance of community and interpersonal connections in "Days".

Relationships and Themes

the anime team is all dressed in black and white uniforms with their hands on their hipss
the anime team is all dressed in black and white uniforms with their hands on their hipss

Beyond the central friendship, "Days" explores a variety of relationships, from familial bonds to romantic attachments. These connections are woven into the plot with care and finesse, each serving to highlight different themes - love, sacrifice, communication, and understanding.

The series also delves into heavier themes like mental health, grief, and perseverance. Through these explorations, "Days" offers insights that can resonate beyond the screen, reminding viewers of the importance of empathy, patience, and self-care.

Art Style and Atmosphere

three anime characters with different hairs and numbers on their shirts, one is pointing to the side
three anime characters with different hairs and numbers on their shirts, one is pointing to the side

Visually, "Days" is a treat. Its character designs are distinct and expressive, while the animation captures subtle emotional cues, lending sincerity to even the silliest humor. The color palette is warm and inviting, further enhancing the series' laid-back, slice-of-life charm.

The anime's soundtrack is another strength. The opening and ending themes, performed by differents artists, lend themselves well to the story's various moods. Background music, meanwhile, effectively underscores pivotal moments, reinforcing their emotional impact.

a group of people standing and sitting in the grass with one person holding his head
a group of people standing and sitting in the grass with one person holding his head
an anime scene with the caption that reads, what do you mean to me?
an anime scene with the caption that reads, what do you mean to me?
DAYS (TV) MOMENTS #1
DAYS (TV) MOMENTS #1
some anime characters with different expressions on their faces and in front of a soccer ball
some anime characters with different expressions on their faces and in front of a soccer ball
the many faces of an anime character
the many faces of an anime character
Narukami Shūji | DAYS
Narukami Shūji | DAYS
two anime characters, one with blue eyes and the other with blonde hair looking at each other
two anime characters, one with blue eyes and the other with blonde hair looking at each other
two anime characters standing next to each other in front of a sunset and cloudy sky
two anime characters standing next to each other in front of a sunset and cloudy sky
an anime scene with two people talking to each other and one person holding a cup
an anime scene with two people talking to each other and one person holding a cup
some anime characters are doing different things in front of the camera and one is holding a soccer
some anime characters are doing different things in front of the camera and one is holding a soccer
some anime characters are talking to each other in the same language, and one is holding his hand up
some anime characters are talking to each other in the same language, and one is holding his hand up
Nozomi Tsukamoto | DAYS
Nozomi Tsukamoto | DAYS
two different anime scenes with the same person talking to each other and one saying that they are
two different anime scenes with the same person talking to each other and one saying that they are
some anime characters with different expressions on their faces and in the background, there is an animated
some anime characters with different expressions on their faces and in the background, there is an animated
the soccer players are playing on the field
the soccer players are playing on the field
anime character collages with their hands in the air and one holding his head
anime character collages with their hands in the air and one holding his head
an anime character running with another person in the background
an anime character running with another person in the background

Adaptation and World-Building

"Days" is based on a popular manga series by Yasuharu Togashi. The anime adaptation stays faithful to the source material, but also makes smart pacing choices that allow the story to breathe. It also excels in world-building, making Matsumoto feel like a living, breathing town filled with its own history and legends.

A notable aspect is the anime's willingness to diverge from the manga, introducing new elements and storylines to enrich the viewing experience. This commitment to adaptation elevates "Days" beyond a simple adaptation, transforming it into a unique and engaging piece of storytelling.

In the end, "Days" leaves us with a sense of warmth and satisfaction, as if we've just said goodbye to old friends. It's a testament to the power of shared experiences and human connection. Fans of slice-of-life, drama, and coming-of-age tales would do well to add "Days" to their watchlist. Who knows? You might just find yourself falling in love with Matsumoto and its inhabitants, much as we have.