Kino's Journey: the Beautiful World, shortened to Kino's Journey, is a Japanese light novel series written by Keiichi Sigsawa, with illustrations by Kouhaku Kuroboshi, which is still being published. A 13-episode anime adaptation was produced by A.C.G.T and Genco aired between April and July 2003. Two manga adaptations were produced, and a new anime series aired 12 episodes between October and December 2017. As of 2017, around 8.2 million copies of the novels have been sold in Japan. Newtype USA (a monthly magazine publication originating from Japan, covering anime and manga) named Kino's Journey the Book of the Month for November 2006 and called it"inviting and addictive," while AnimeOnDVD said it ‘sucks you in,’ and ‘allows you to experience the journey’ together with the main character of the series, Kino. The series has a huge fan base, including the fact that the series is usually mentioned in Takarajimasha's light novel guide book ‘Kono Light Novel ga Sugoi!.’
Kino’s Journey tells a story of Kino, who is on a never-ending journey. Kino, together with their motorcycle, travel to different places and countries that have their own customs and laws. As a general rule, Kino only stays in each place for 3 days. During these three days, the story will show you the most beautiful places you have ever experienced in your life, or perhaps even the cruelest country. The series will also make you analyze many topics, including: festivals, traditions, different activities, freedom, individuality, war, machines, and even life itself. There is always a philosophical dilemma that Kino has to solve and these dilemmas sometimes involve some serious decisions that might put Kino’s life on the line.
It is worth mentioning that the series used to be very popular in 2000; it still has quite a remarkable fan base. Just like me, you might have seen the original in 2003, or even started reading the novel in 2000. In that case, you already know the whole beauty of this series. If not, Kino’s Journey is definitely a huge pearl for those who like slice of life. However, if you believe that this genre is too boring, but still want to watch the series, I would highly recommend you to watch only two episodes a day, otherwise you might find it boring. I also want to concentrate your attention on the fact that Kino’s Journey is not your usual slice of life series; as mentioned before, you will find philosophy, many life dilemmas, some really tragic scenes, and even some action scenes. Granted, if you are patient, this diamond will reward you with its rich story-line.
Art wise, the character artwork tends to be more simplistic, but this simplicity helps sometimes to build a very dark atmosphere, because this anime is dark and depressive. The background is not also exquisitely detailed, but at the same time there are so many small details. That being said, the anime’s art has too many positive aspects that compensate old animation. Sound wise, there are many great soundtracks. Another thing worth mentioning is Japanese voice actors, who did an amazingly good job. What I mean is that Kino dialogues with Hermes are the main focus of this anime; you have two options watching this anime: the first being just enjoying the show and second being analyzing every aspect Kino no Tabi tries to show you. And I must say it really is a great enjoyment to think about a thing, or two listening to Kino’s voice actress.
As it has already been stated before, there are two protagonists in this series. Kino is the first main protagonist in the series. They travels to different countries with their talking motorcycle Hermes, which is the second main protagonist, discovering different cultures, customs and people. I am sure that it was one hell of a task for the voice actors to voice their characters, but they managed to do it. The best part about this anime, is of course, its characters. The duo is able to keep you interested in what will happen next, providing you with the necessary character development.
As a side note, as you might know, Kino no Tabi received a remake not long ago. It is always nice to see that such giants of the SoL genre receive attention; however, it is still obvious that the 2003 version of Kino no Tabi is far superior to its remake; it is just was not as dark as the original, but it still is worth watching.
Overall rating: a very solid 10/10. Kino no Tabi: The Beautiful World (2003) is a show that I would recommend to any person who loves SoL. However, if you are not a fan of the genre, as it has already been mentioned in my review, you should either watch this anime little by little, or you should just avoid it. Kino no Tabi: The Beautiful World (2003) is, indeed, a worthy title. I hope that you will enjoy your journey with Kino and Hermes and perhaps continue it with Kino no Tabi: The Beautiful World (2017), which is also a good (not the best) remake for this masterpiece.