What is it: Himegoto
Himegoto is a Japanese term that can be translated as “secret” or “something confidential”. In the context of anime and manga, Himegoto refers to a manga series written and illustrated by Norio Tsukudani. The story revolves around Hime Arikawa, a high school student who is forced to dress as a girl to pay off her parents' debts. This manga was serialized in Ichijinsha's Comic Rex magazine between 2011 and 2015 and was later adapted into an anime series. Himegoto's plot is full of comical moments and embarrassing situations, exploring themes of gender identity and transvestism in a light and humorous way. The series is known for its vibrant art style and charismatic characters, which have earned it a dedicated fan base.
In the Himegoto universe, Hime Arikawa is saved from loan sharks by three girls from his school's student council, who agree to pay off his debts on the condition that he dresses and lives like a girl for the remainder of his school life. The three girls are Unko, the student council president; 18-kin, the vice president; and Albertina II, the treasurer. Each of these characters brings a unique dynamic to the story, contributing to Hime's development as a character and the series' comedy. The interaction between Hime and the student council members is one of the highlights of the series, providing lots of laughs and touching moments.
In addition to the humor and awkward situations, Himegoto also addresses deeper issues related to gender identity and acceptance. Although the series is primarily a comedy, it does not neglect the importance of discussing how Hime deals with her new identity and how it affects her daily life. The series also explores how other characters perceive and accept Hime in her new form, offering an interesting look at diversity and acceptance in the school environment. The way Himegoto treats these themes in a light and accessible way is one of the reasons why the series is so popular among anime and manga fans.
The anime adaptation of Himegoto aired in 2014, consisting of 13 short episodes of approximately 4 minutes each. Despite its short length, the series managed to capture the essence of the manga and bring to life the characters and comical situations that fans love. The animation was produced by studio Asahi Production, known for its work on other popular anime series. The anime's reception was positive, with many fans praising the fidelity to the source material and the quality of the animation. The soundtrack and voice acting were also well received, contributing to the series' popularity.
Himegoto is a perfect example of how a manga series can address complex themes in a light and fun way. The combination of humor, charismatic characters, and an engaging plot makes Himegoto a memorable series that continues to resonate with fans. The series also highlights the importance of acceptance and understanding, showing that even in difficult situations, it is possible to find support and friendship. For those looking for an anime or manga series that offers laughter and reflection, Himegoto is an excellent choice.
