* Image is for illustrative purposes only.YATAGARASU: The Raven Does Not Choose Its Master
烏は主を選ばない
Spring 2024 anime set in the ancient Asian-inspired realm of Yamauchi, where the three-legged ravens called Yatagarasu shapeshift into humans. The story follows Yukiya, a young Yatagarasu appointed as attendant to the eccentric Crown Prince Wakamiya, as he is drawn into deadly court conspiracies. Produced by Pierrot, globally distributed by Crunchyroll.
Description
Overview
YATAGARASU: The Raven Does Not Choose Its Master is a TV anime based on Chisato Abe's novel series, the Yatagarasu series, airing in the spring 2024 season. Produced by Pierrot, it began broadcasting on NHK General TV on April 6, 2024, and reached its final episode on September 21 of the same year. It was streamed worldwide on Crunchyroll.
World and Setting
The story is set in Yamauchi, an otherworldly realm reminiscent of the Heian court. The rulers of this world are three-legged crows called Yatagarasu, who have the ability to take human form. Yamauchi is an aristocratic society made up of the Chūō (the Center), directly ruled by the Kin'u (the main imperial house), and the four domains, each governed by the East, West, South and North houses. Power struggles within the court, rank and etiquette, and master-retainer relationships, elements that echo Japan's courtly culture, form the core of the story.
Connection to Swords and Armor
At the Yamauchi court, nobles and military officers wear swords at their sides, along with close-combat weapons such as naginata. In scenes that heighten the story's tension, sword techniques are depicted, and conflicts between court guards and political rivals are portrayed as clashes of blades. The design of costumes and armor evokes Japan's dynastic era.
Cultural Impact
Among the spring 2024 anime, it was highlighted as a notable title, and its style, which blends court intrigue drama with otherworldly fantasy, won support from viewers both in Japan and abroad.
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This page is intended to introduce Japanese sword culture and is not affiliated with any of the works mentioned.