The Eccentric Family (Uchouten Kazoku) is a whimsical, deeply philosophical anime that blends fantasy, family drama, and slice-of-life comedy in the vibrant setting of Kyoto. The story follows Yasaburou Shimogamo, a young tanuki who can shapeshift, as he navigates the complex social dynamics of a world where tanuki, tengu, and humans coexist. The series explores the bonds of family, the search for identity, and the bittersweet nature of life through the lens of a family that has been touched by tragedy but continues to live with humor and resilience.
The series is defined by its core themes: a power system rooted in shapeshifting and the complex social hierarchies of a supernatural world that mirrors our own, where the ability to adapt and see things from different perspectives is the greatest strength. Yasaburou is a quintessential underdog—a carefree young tanuki who must navigate the expectations of his family, the machinations of rival factions, and the lingering shadow of his father’s death. The Eccentric Family masterfully subverts expectations by presenting what appears to be a lighthearted fantasy comedy and gradually revealing a deep, melancholic meditation on family, mortality, and the importance of living life to the fullest. It is a series that understands the beauty of imperfection.
For fans of The Eccentric Family, finding similar anime can be a challenge. The series occupies a unique space—part urban fantasy, part family drama, part philosophical meditation. Yet, many underrated series share its core DNA: a focus on the bonds of family and community, an exploration of the relationship between the supernatural and the mundane, and a willingness to blend comedy, drama, and fantasy in unexpected ways. 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 The Eccentric Family.
1. Natsume’s Book of Friends (2008)
- Streaming Availability: Crunchyroll
- Rating: MAL: 8.3
- Episodes: 13 (Season 1)
- Studio: Brain’s Base
- Notable Staff: Based on the manga by Yuki Midorikawa.
Plot Summary: Takashi Natsume, a boy who can see spirits, inherits a book from his grandmother that contains the names of spirits she had bound to her will. He decides to return the names, forming connections with the spirits.
Similarities to The Eccentric Family: Both are about a protagonist who bridges the human and supernatural worlds, navigating the complexities of both. The focus is on empathy, compassion, and the healing power of connection. The tone is warm, melancholic, and deeply emotional, with a similar celebration of Japanese folklore.
2. Kyousougiga (2013)
- Streaming Availability: Crunchyroll
- Rating: MAL: 8.0
- Episodes: 10
- Studio: Toei Animation
- Notable Staff: Directed by Rie Matsumoto.
Plot Summary: In a mirrored version of Kyoto, a young girl named Koto searches for her family, accompanied by her two brothers. The city is a chaotic, surreal place ruled by a monk and populated by strange creatures.
Similarities to The Eccentric Family: Both are set in a fantastical version of Kyoto and explore the bonds of family and the search for belonging. The focus is on the surreal, whimsical atmosphere and the emotional depth of the characters. The series is a visually stunning, deeply philosophical exploration of family and identity.
3. Arakawa Under the Bridge (2010)
- Streaming Availability: Crunchyroll, Funimation
- Rating: MAL: 7.6
- Episodes: 13 (Season 1)
- Studio: Shaft
- Notable Staff: Based on the manga by Hikaru Nakamura, directed by Akiyuki Shinbo.
Plot Summary: Kou Ichinomiya, a privileged young man, falls into the Arakawa River and is saved by Nino, a mysterious girl who claims to be from Venus. To repay his debt, he must become her boyfriend and live with her under the bridge.
Similarities to The Eccentric Family: Both are about a protagonist who is drawn into a community of eccentric misfits and must learn to adapt to their unconventional way of life. The focus is on the warmth of community and the beauty of accepting others. The series is a surreal, hilarious, and deeply heartwarming comedy.
4. The Morose Mononokean (2016)
- Streaming Availability: Crunchyroll
- Rating: MAL: 7.3
- Episodes: 13 (Season 1)
- Studio: Pierrot Plus
- Notable Staff: Based on the manga by Kiri Wazawa.
Plot Summary: Hanae Ashiya, a high school student plagued by a yokai, seeks help from the Mononokean, a mysterious tea room run by Abeno Haruitsuki. They work together to help yokai return to the underworld.
Similarities to The Eccentric Family: Both are about the relationship between humans and yokai, and the importance of understanding and compassion. The focus is on the bonds formed through helping others. The series is a warm, gentle exploration of Japanese folklore.
5. Kamisama Kiss (2012)
- Streaming Availability: Crunchyroll, Funimation
- Rating: MAL: 7.8
- Episodes: 13 (Season 1)
- Studio: TMS Entertainment
- Notable Staff: Based on the manga by Julietta Suzuki.
Plot Summary: Nanami Momozono, a homeless high school girl, becomes a land god after inheriting a shrine. She must learn to navigate the world of gods and spirits with the help of her familiar, Tomoe.
Similarities to The Eccentric Family: Both are about a protagonist who is thrust into the world of spirits and gods and must learn to navigate its complexities. The focus is on the bonds between the protagonist and their supernatural companions. The series is a warm, romantic comedy with a strong supernatural element.
6. Hotarubi no Mori e (2011)
- Streaming Availability: Crunchyroll
- Rating: MAL: 8.2
- Episodes: 1 (Film)
- Studio: Brain’s Base
- Notable Staff: Based on the manga by Yuki Midorikawa.
Plot Summary: Hotaru, a young girl, befriends Gin, a spirit who lives in the forest. She can never touch him, or he will disappear. The film follows their relationship over the years.
Similarities to The Eccentric Family: Both are about the bittersweet relationship between humans and spirits, and the pain of separation. The focus is on the quiet, emotional moments of connection. The tone is melancholic and deeply moving, with a similar reverence for Japanese folklore.
7. 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. His journey is one of quiet observation and understanding.
Similarities to The Eccentric Family: Both are about a protagonist who bridges the human and supernatural worlds, helping to resolve conflicts and find understanding. The focus is on empathy, compassion, and the healing power of connection. The tone is warm, melancholic, and deeply philosophical.
8. Barakamon (2014)
- Streaming Availability: Crunchyroll, Funimation
- Rating: MAL: 8.2
- Episodes: 12
- Studio: Kinema Citrus
- Notable Staff: Based on the manga by Satsuki Yoshino.
Plot Summary: Seishuu Handa, a calligrapher, is sent to a remote island after an incident. He must adapt to the slow pace of rural life and the eccentric locals, including a precocious young girl named Naru.
Similarities to The Eccentric Family: Both are about a protagonist who is thrust into a new environment and must learn to connect with the people around him. The focus is on the warmth of community and the joy of simple living. The series is a hilarious, heartwarming comedy.
9. The Tatami Galaxy (2010)
- Streaming Availability: Crunchyroll, Funimation
- Rating: MAL: 8.5
- Episodes: 11
- Studio: Madhouse
- Notable Staff: Directed by Masaaki Yuasa, based on the novel by Tomihiko Morimi.
Plot Summary: An unnamed college student reflects on his failures, wondering how his life would have been different if he had made different choices. The series uses a time-loop structure.
Similarities to The Eccentric Family: Both are from the same author, Tomihiko Morimi, and share a focus on the search for meaning and the beauty of imperfection. The unique, fast-paced visual style captures the protagonist’s chaotic mind. The series is a deeply philosophical and visually stunning exploration of the human condition.
10. Penguindrum (2011)
- Streaming Availability: Crunchyroll, HiDive
- Rating: MAL: 8.0
- Episodes: 24
- Studio: Brain’s Base
- Notable Staff: Directed by Kunihiko Ikuhara.
Plot Summary: Two brothers are given a mysterious penguin hat that can save their dying sister, but only if they find the “Penguindrum.” Their quest is filled with surreal symbolism and social commentary.
Similarities to The Eccentric Family: Both are about the bonds of family and the lengths people will go to protect the ones they love. The focus is on the surreal, symbolic storytelling and the emotional depth of the characters. The series is a complex, thought-provoking masterpiece.
11. The Night is Short, Walk on Girl (2017)
- Streaming Availability: Amazon Prime Video
- Rating: MAL: 8.3
- Episodes: 1 (Film)
- Studio: Science SARU
- Notable Staff: Directed by Masaaki Yuasa, based on the novel by Tomihiko Morimi.
Plot Summary: A young woman known only as “Otome” embarks on a wild, surreal night out in Kyoto, drinking, dancing, and meeting a cast of eccentric characters.
Similarities to The Eccentric Family: Both are from the same author, Tomihiko Morimi, and share a focus on the vibrant, surreal atmosphere of Kyoto. The focus is on the beauty of chance encounters and the joy of living in the moment. The film is a visually stunning celebration of youth and the unexpected.
12. Non Non Biyori (2013)
- Streaming Availability: Crunchyroll
- Rating: MAL: 7.9
- Episodes: 12 (Season 1)
- Studio: Silver Link
- Notable Staff: Based on the manga by Atto.
Plot Summary: The series follows the daily lives of a group of students in a small, rural school. The focus is on the quiet beauty of rural life and the bonds between the characters.
Similarities to The Eccentric Family: Both are quiet, contemplative slice-of-life series that celebrate the beauty of ordinary moments. The focus is on the characters and their relationships with each other and their environment. The tone is warm, gentle, and deeply relaxing.
13. Tamako Market (2013)
- Streaming Availability: Crunchyroll
- Rating: MAL: 7.2
- Episodes: 12
- Studio: Kyoto Animation
- Notable Staff: Directed by Naoko Yamada.
Plot Summary: Tamako Kitashirakawa, a cheerful girl who works in her family’s mochi shop, navigates the daily life of her shopping district and the eccentric residents.
Similarities to The Eccentric Family: Both are about a young protagonist who is deeply connected to their community and the traditions that define it. The focus is on the warmth of the community and the bonds between neighbors. The series is a gentle, heartwarming slice-of-life.
14. The Ancient Magus’ Bride (2017)
- Streaming Availability: Crunchyroll
- Rating: MAL: 8.0
- Episodes: 24 (Season 1)
- Studio: Wit Studio
- Notable Staff: Based on the manga by Kore Yamazaki.
Plot Summary: Chise Hatori, a young woman who has been abandoned, is purchased by Elias Ainsworth, a mysterious magus. She becomes his apprentice and learns magic.
Similarities to The Eccentric Family: Both are about a protagonist who is drawn into the world of magic and supernatural beings, and must learn to navigate its complexities. The focus is on the relationships between the characters and the supernatural beings they encounter. The series is a rich, atmospheric fantasy.
15. Wolf Children (2012)
- Streaming Availability: Crunchyroll, Funimation
- Rating: MAL: 8.6
- Episodes: 1 (Film)
- Studio: Studio Chizu
- Notable Staff: Directed by Mamoru Hosoda.
Plot Summary: Hana falls in love with a wolf man and has two children who inherit his ability to transform into wolves. After his death, she must raise them alone.
Similarities to The Eccentric Family: Both are about the bonds of family and the challenges of raising children who are different from the norm. The focus is on the unconditional love between a parent and their children. The film is a masterpiece of emotional storytelling.
Why These Anime Work for The Eccentric Family Fans
Fans of The Eccentric Family are drawn to stories that are whimsical, philosophical, and deeply invested in the bonds of family and community. They appreciate a narrative that blends fantasy, comedy, and drama in unexpected ways, and they are invested in characters who are flawed, resilient, and deeply human. They are not looking for simple action or escapism, but for stories that celebrate the beauty of imperfection and the joy of living life to the fullest.
The anime listed above all share this fundamental DNA:
- The Bonds of Family and Community: Whether it is the Shimogamo family, the residents of the Arakawa riverbank, or the Kawamoto sisters, these series understand that the most powerful force in the world is the bonds between people. The focus is on the warmth of family and the support of community.
- The Supernatural and the Mundane: These series blend the supernatural with the everyday, creating worlds that are both fantastical and deeply relatable. They understand that the most profound truths are often found in the most ordinary moments.
- Subversion of the Fantasy Genre: These series reject the typical fantasy formula, instead focusing on the quiet, everyday struggles of their characters. They understand that the most compelling stories are those that challenge our assumptions and force us to think.
These 15 anime, like The Eccentric Family, are not afraid to be whimsical. They are underrated gems that offer a warm, emotionally resonant, and deeply philosophical experience for viewers who are looking for stories that celebrate the beauty of life in all its messy, imperfect glory.
