Kemurikusa is a unique, atmospheric post-apocalyptic anime that blends mystery, survival, and a slow-burning exploration of identity and purpose. Created by Tatsuki, the story follows a group of sisters—Rin, Ritsu, and Rina—who are among the last survivors in a world covered by a deadly red fog. They encounter Wakaba, a mysterious boy with no memories, who becomes their ally in the fight against the “Mushi,” red robotic creatures that threaten their existence. As they travel together, they uncover the secrets of their world and their own origins.
The series is defined by its core themes: a power system rooted in the mysterious “Kemurikusa”—glowing leaves that grant special abilities—and the struggle for survival in a dying world. The protagonists are profound underdogs—ordinary individuals fighting against overwhelming odds with limited resources and knowledge. Kemurikusa masterfully subverts expectations by presenting a seemingly simple survival story and gradually revealing a complex, emotionally resonant narrative about identity, sacrifice, and the meaning of existence. It is a series that understands the power of mystery and the importance of hope in the face of despair.
For fans of Kemurikusa, finding similar anime can be a challenge. The series occupies a unique space—part post-apocalyptic survival, part mystery, part philosophical meditation. Yet, many underrated series share its core DNA: a focus on survival in a hostile world, an exploration of identity and memory, and a willingness to use minimalist animation and atmospheric storytelling to create a deeply immersive experience. These shows deserve far more attention for their creativity, their emotional depth, and their refusal to provide easy answers.
Here are 15 underrated anime that capture the spirit of Kemurikusa.
1. Girls’ Last Tour (2017)
- Streaming Availability: Amazon Prime Video, HiDive
- Rating: MAL: 8.2
- Episodes: 12
- Studio: White Fox
- Notable Staff: Based on the manga by Tsukumizu.
Plot Summary: In a desolate, post-apocalyptic world, two young girls, Chito and Yuuri, travel through the ruins of a vast, empty city on their Kettenkrad motorcycle. They search for food, fuel, and meaning, finding small moments of joy and wonder.
Similarities to Kemurikusa: Both are quiet, melancholic post-apocalyptic stories about a small group of survivors navigating a dying world. The focus is on the small, poignant moments of connection and the search for beauty amidst the ruins. The relationship between the characters is the heart of the story.
2. Made in Abyss (2017)
- Streaming Availability: Amazon Prime Video, HiDive
- Rating: MAL: 8.7
- Episodes: 13 (Season 1)
- Studio: Kinema Citrus
- Notable Staff: Based on the manga by Akihito Tsukushi.
Plot Summary: Riko, a young girl, dreams of becoming a Cave Raider and exploring the mysterious Abyss, a vast chasm filled with ancient relics and strange creatures. She embarks on a journey into the depths with a robot boy named Reg.
Similarities to Kemurikusa: Both are about characters exploring a dangerous, mysterious world and uncovering its secrets. The focus is on the sense of wonder and the harsh realities of survival. The series is known for its unique art style and its willingness to explore dark, disturbing themes.
3. Houseki no Kuni (Land of the Lustrous) (2017)
- Streaming Availability: Amazon Prime Video, HiDive
- Rating: MAL: 8.4
- Episodes: 12
- Studio: Orange
- Notable Staff: Based on the manga by Haruko Ichikawa.
Plot Summary: In a distant future, immortal gemstone beings called “Lustrous” fight against the “Lunarians,” who seek to harvest them for their beauty. Phos, a young and fragile gem, must find their purpose and grow stronger.
Similarities to Kemurikusa: Both are set in a strange, beautiful world and feature protagonists who are searching for their identity and purpose. The focus is on the emotional journey of the characters and the mysteries of their existence. The series is known for its stunning CGI animation and its philosophical depth.
4. Shinsekai Yori (From the New World) (2012)
- Streaming Availability: Crunchyroll, Amazon Prime Video
- Rating: MAL: 8.3
- Episodes: 25
- Studio: A-1 Pictures
- Notable Staff: Based on the novel by Yusuke Kishi.
Plot Summary: A thousand years after humanity develops psychic powers, a group of children in a seemingly utopian village begins to uncover the horrifying truths their society is built upon.
Similarities to Kemurikusa: Both are slow-burn mysteries set in a strange, isolated world where the protagonists must uncover the truth about their society. The focus is on the psychological and emotional impact of discovery. The atmosphere of dread and the sense of impending doom are a direct parallel.
5. Haibane Renmei (2002)
- Streaming Availability: Funimation
- Rating: MAL: 8.0
- Episodes: 13
- Studio: Radix
- Notable Staff: Created by Yoshitoshi ABe.
Plot Summary: Rakka, a newly born “Haibane,” awakens in a strange, walled town with small wings and no memory of her past. She must live a quiet life while grappling with her existence and the nature of her “sin.”
Similarities to Kemurikusa: Both are quiet, atmospheric series about isolated individuals searching for meaning in a liminal space. The focus is on the emotional journey and the exploration of identity and purpose. The tone is melancholic and deeply philosophical.
6. Texhnolyze (2003)
- Streaming Availability: Funimation
- Rating: MAL: 7.8
- Episodes: 22
- Studio: Madhouse
- Notable Staff: Directed by Hiroshi Hamasaki.
Plot Summary: In the underground city of Lux, a young fighter named Ichise loses an arm and a leg. He is fitted with “Texhnolyze,” advanced mechanical prosthetics, and becomes entangled in a conflict between factions.
Similarities to Kemurikusa: Both are dark, atmospheric series that explore the struggle for survival in a dying world. The minimal dialogue and oppressive atmosphere create a similarly bleak and powerful experience. The focus is on the dehumanizing effects of technology and violence.
7. Ergo Proxy (2006)
- Streaming Availability: Crunchyroll, Amazon Prime Video
- Rating: MAL: 7.9
- Episodes: 23
- Studio: Manglobe
- Notable Staff: Directed by Shukou Murase.
Plot Summary: In a post-apocalyptic domed city, an inspector and an android investigate a series of murders linked to a mysterious entity known as “Proxy.”
Similarities to Kemurikusa: Both are slow-burn, atmospheric mysteries that explore the nature of identity and consciousness. The protagonists are underdogs caught in a system they don’t fully understand. The philosophical exploration of what it means to be human is a direct thematic parallel.
8. Kino’s Journey (2003)
- Streaming Availability: Amazon Prime Video, HiDive
- Rating: MAL: 8.3
- Episodes: 13
- Studio: A.C.G.T.
- Notable Staff: Based on the light novel series by Keiichi Sigsawa.
Plot Summary: Kino, a young traveler, journeys with a talking motorcycle through a variety of strange and unique countries. Kino’s rule is to stay in each country for only three days and two nights.
Similarities to Kemurikusa: Both are philosophical journeys through a strange and often cruel world. The tone is quiet, observational, and often melancholic. The focus is on understanding rather than judging, and the protagonists are wanderers who must adapt to new situations.
9. Mushishi (2005)
- Streaming Availability: Crunchyroll, Hulu
- Rating: MAL: 8.7
- Episodes: 26 (Season 1)
- Studio: Artland
- Notable Staff: Based on the manga by Yuki Urushibara.
Plot Summary: Ginko, a “Mushi-shi,” travels the countryside investigating “Mushi”—primordial, ethereal lifeforms that exist alongside humanity.
Similarities to Kemurikusa: Both are atmospheric, contemplative series that explore the unseen forces that shape human lives. The focus is on understanding rather than fighting. Ginko, like the characters in Kemurikusa, is a wanderer navigating a world filled with mysteries.
10. The Girl Who Leapt Through Time (2006)
- Streaming Availability: Crunchyroll, Amazon Prime Video
- Rating: MAL: 8.2
- Episodes: 1 (Film)
- Studio: Madhouse
- Notable Staff: Directed by Mamoru Hosoda.
Plot Summary: Makoto Konno discovers she has the ability to leap through time. She uses this power to fix small problems, but learns that her actions have unintended consequences.
Similarities to Kemurikusa: Both are about the consequences of choices and the importance of cherishing the present moment. The focus is on the emotional weight of decisions and the fleeting nature of happiness. The tone is melancholic and deeply moving.
11. Wolf’s Rain (2003)
- Streaming Availability: Crunchyroll, Funimation
- Rating: MAL: 7.8
- Episodes: 26
- Studio: Bones
- Notable Staff: Directed by Tensai Okamura.
Plot Summary: In a dying world, a group of wolves who can take human form searches for the mythical “Paradise.”
Similarities to Kemurikusa: Both are set in a dying world where the protagonists search for something that may not exist. The melancholic, poetic tone and the focus on hope and survival are a direct parallel. The protagonists are underdogs driven by a primal faith.
12. Someday’s Dreamers (2003)
- Streaming Availability: Crunchyroll
- Rating: MAL: 7.0
- Episodes: 12
- Studio: J.C. Staff
- Notable Staff: Based on the manga by Norie Yamada and Kumichi Yoshizuki.
Plot Summary: Yume Kikuchi travels to Tokyo to become a certified magic user. She must learn not just how to use her magic, but when and why it should be used.
Similarities to Kemurikusa: Both are about a young person learning to navigate a world with its own rules and traditions. The focus is on the emotional and ethical implications of power. The tone is quiet, contemplative, and deeply human.
13. Noein: To Your Other Self (2005)
- Streaming Availability: Crunchyroll
- Rating: MAL: 7.5
- Episodes: 24
- Studio: Satelight
- Notable Staff: Directed by Kazuki Akane.
Plot Summary: In a future timeline, a war is being fought across multiple dimensions. Dragon Knights arrive in the present, seeking a mysterious object connected to a young girl named Haruka.
Similarities to Kemurikusa: Both involve a conflict that spans dimensions and time. The complex, multi-dimensional plot and the philosophical questions about identity and existence are a strong match. The protagonists are caught in a conflict far larger than themselves.
14. Dennou Coil (2007)
- Streaming Availability: Not currently available on major platforms.
- Rating: MAL: 8.1
- Episodes: 26
- Studio: Madhouse
- Notable Staff: Created by Mitsuo Iso.
Plot Summary: In a near-future city, children wear internet-connected glasses that overlay an augmented reality onto the real world. They investigate glitches and uncover a hidden truth.
Similarities to Kemurikusa: Both are about characters exploring a mysterious world and uncovering hidden truths. The focus is on the mystery and the psychological impact of discovery. The series is a thoughtful, intelligent exploration of technology and childhood.
15. Angel’s Egg (1985)
- Streaming Availability: Not currently available on major platforms.
- Rating: MAL: 7.8
- Episodes: 1 (Film)
- Studio: Studio Deen
- Notable Staff: Directed by Mamoru Oshii.
Plot Summary: In a dark, surreal world, a young girl protects a mysterious egg. She is accompanied by a shadowy man who questions her faith.
Similarities to Kemurikusa: Both are deeply symbolic, atmospheric, and almost devoid of conventional narrative. The focus is on visual storytelling, mood, and the exploration of spiritual and existential themes. The search for something precious and elusive is a direct parallel.
Why These Anime Work for Kemurikusa Fans
Fans of Kemurikusa are drawn to stories that are atmospheric, mysterious, and deeply philosophical. They appreciate a narrative that takes its time to build its world and its characters, and they are invested in the journey of underdog protagonists who are struggling to survive and find meaning in a hostile world. They are not looking for action-packed adventures, but for stories that make them think and feel.
The anime listed above all share this fundamental DNA:
- The Mystery of Existence: Whether it is the secrets of the Kemurikusa leaves, the nature of the Haibane, or the truth behind the Proxy, these series understand that the most compelling mysteries are those that explore the nature of identity, memory, and purpose. The focus is on the search for meaning in a confusing world.
- The Underdog Survivor: The protagonists are not heroes. They are ordinary individuals who are fighting for survival in a world that is often cruel and indifferent. Their strength lies not in their power, but in their resilience, their capacity for love, and their willingness to keep moving forward.
- Subversion of Genre: These series reject the easy categorization of their genres. They blend science fiction with philosophy, mystery with emotion, and the supernatural with the deeply human. They understand that the most powerful stories are those that defy expectations.
These 15 anime, like Kemurikusa, are not afraid to be strange. They are underrated gems that offer a deeply moving, thought-provoking, and visually stunning experience for viewers who are willing to look beyond the surface and embrace the mystery.
