Mika Yamamori’s popular manga series, “In the Clear Moonlit Dusk” (Japanese: うるわしの宵の月, Hepburn: Uruwashi no Yoi no Tsuki), is set to captivate audiences in a new medium as it receives a television anime adaptation. Fans of the shojo romance can mark their calendars for January 2026, when the anime will premiere on TBS and air across 28 network affiliates in Japan.
Story and Characters
“In the Clear Moonlit Dusk” tells the story of Yoi Takiguchi, a first-year high school student with a tall stature, deep voice, and handsome features, often mistaken for a boy. Due to her appearance, she’s nicknamed “Prince” and unintentionally attracts the affections of female classmates.
Yoi’s life takes an unexpected turn when she meets Kohaku Ichimura, a second-year student also known as “Prince,” rumored to be from a wealthy family. Despite initially mistaking Yoi for a boy, Kohaku becomes intrigued by her and notices a side of her that others don’t see. He offers Yoi a chance to “test” dating him, leading to a heartwarming romance as they reveal their true selves to each other.
Production Details
The anime adaptation boasts a talented team to bring the beloved manga to life. Yūsuke Maruyama, known for his work as an assistant director on Lycoris Recoil, will direct the anime at East Fish Studio. Ayumu Hisao, who worked on Kono Oto Tomare!: Sounds of Life, is credited with series composition. Yuki Fukuda (Insomniacs After School) is designing the characters, and Tsubasa Ito (I May Be a Guild Receptionist) is composing the music.
The main cast includes Rei Ichinomiya as Yoi Takiguchi and Ryōta Suzuki as Kohaku Ichimura.
Manga Origins
Mika Yamamori launched the “In the Clear Moonlit Dusk” manga in Dessert magazine in July 2020. Kodansha USA Publishing has licensed the manga for English release. As of August 2024, the series has been compiled into eight volumes. The ninth volume is scheduled to be published on May 13, 2025. The manga was also ranked #11 on the list of manga for female readers in the 2023 edition of Takarajimasha’s Kono Manga ga Sugoi! guidebook.
Themes and Reception
“In the Clear Moonlit Dusk” explores themes of identity, perception, and the blossoming of first love. The manga has been praised for its refreshing take on the shojo genre, with many reviewers highlighting the appealing character designs and the sweet, relatable romance between Yoi and Kohaku. Reviewers note that the characters’ struggles with their emotions and insecurities make them feel more real. The manga also touches on the challenges Yoi faces due to her androgynous appearance and how Kohaku sees beyond it.
Some reviewers have noted the story’s familiarity and reliance on common high school romance tropes. However, many find the series charming and enjoyable, with the leads’ slow, progressive feelings and the overall youthful feel of the romance.
Where to Read
“In the Clear Moonlit Dusk” is available in English from Kodansha USA Publishing. It is also available on K Manga.
A Promising Adaptation
With its engaging story, appealing characters, and talented production team, the anime adaptation of “In the Clear Moonlit Dusk” is highly anticipated by fans of the manga and shojo anime in general. The series’ focus on character development and relatable themes promises to resonate with viewers. As Mika Yamamori commented, she is excited to see new dimensions of the story expressed through animation.
