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Tsurune
Light novel cover
ツルネ -風舞高校弓道部-
(Tsurune: Kazemai Kōkō Kyūdō-bu)
GenreSports (archery)[1]
Light novel
Written byKotoko Ayano
Illustrated byChinatsu Morimoto
Published byKyoto Animation
ImprintKA Esuma Bunko
Original runDecember 26, 2016 – present
Volumes3
Anime television series
Directed byTakuya Yamamura
Written byMichiko Yokote
Music by
StudioKyoto Animation
Licensed by
Original network
Original run October 22, 2018 – March 30, 2023
Episodes26 + 1 OVA (List of episodes)
Anime film

Tsurune (Japanese: ツルネ -風舞高校弓道部-, Hepburn: Tsurune: Kazemai Kōkō Kyūdō-bu; lit. 'Kazemai High School Archery Team') is a Japanese light novel series written by Kotoko Ayano, with illustrations by Chinatsu Morimoto. The first novel won a Special Judge Award in the Kyoto Animation Award competition in 2016, and was published by the studio in December of that year.

An anime television series adaptation, produced by Kyoto Animation, aired from October 2018 to January 2019. A compilation film premiered in August 2022. A second season aired from January to March 2023.

Plot

[edit]

Minato Narumiya used to be in his middle school's kyūdō club until a certain incident in his last tournament caused him to resolve to quit archery for good. When he attends high school, his childhood friends Seiya Takehaya and Ryōhei Yamanouchi try to rope him into joining the high school's kyūdō club again, but he refuses. However, an encounter with a mysterious man at an archery range at a shinto shrine in a forest inspires Minato to take up archery once more. Minato joins the Kazemai High School Kyūdō Club and along with his old friends and new teammates, Nanao Kisaragi and Kaito Onogi, they aim for winning the prefectural tournament.

Characters

[edit]

Kazemai High School Archery Club

[edit]
Minato Narumiya (鳴宮湊, Narumiya Minato)
Voiced by: Yūto Uemura (Japanese); Bryson Baugus (English)[3][4]
Minato is a first-year student. He is childhood friends with Seiya and Ryohei. A teammate of Shu and Seiya in Middle School. He's in the boys team of kyūdō. He and Shu had the same archery teacher before going to the same middle school. His mother died in an accident that also injured him, and he now performs many domestic chores at his home, such as cooking meals. He lives across the street from Seiya. He begins the series with target panic, which in his case manifests as a tendency to loose his arrow too quickly and miss the target.
Seiya Takehaya (竹早静弥, Takehaya Seiya)
Voiced by: Aoi Ichikawa (Japanese); Gareth West (English)[3][4]
Seiya is a first-year student. He is childhood friends with Minato and Ryohei. A teammate of Shu and Minato in middle school. He's also the club head and captain of the boys' team. Seiya is intelligent, first in his class at Kazemai, and while he doesn't like to talk about himself he obviously highly values his relationship with Minato even to the extent of leaving the more prestigious Kirisaki school system to follow him to Kazemai, wanting to convince him to restart Kyudo.
Ryōhei Yamanouchi (山之内遼平, Yamanouchi Ryōhei)
Voiced by: Ryōta Suzuki (Japanese); Gabriel Regojo (English)[3][4]
Ryohei is a first-year student. He is Minato and Seiya's childhood friend. He went to a different middle school as his friends, but met back up in high school. He's in the boys team of kyūdō. He is a relative novice, having begun kyūdō late in middle school after seeing Minato in a match.
Nanao Kisaragi (如月七緒, Kisaragi Nanao)
Voiced by: Shōgo Yano (Japanese); Clint Bickham (English)[3][4]
Nanao is a first-year student. He is also Kaito's cousin. He's in the boys team of kyūdō. He is cheerful and seemingly superficial and has many female admirers.
Kaito Onogi (小野木海斗, Onogi Kaito)
Voiced by: Kaito Ishikawa (Japanese); Courtland Johnson (English)[3][4]
Kaito is a first-year student. He is also Nanao's cousin. He's in the boys team of kyūdō. He takes kyūdō very seriously and is highly critical of those that he thinks do not. Many first year beginners in the club cited their fear of him as a reason they quit the club.
Rika Seo (妹尾 梨可, Seo Rika)
Voiced by: Yō Taichi[5] (Japanese); Avery Smithhart (English)
Rika is a first-year student. She is the captain of the girls' team. The other girls greatly admire her.
Noa Shiragiku (白菊 乃愛, Shiragiku Noa)
Voiced by: Ayaka Nanase[5] (Japanese); Elissa Cuellar (English)
Noa is a first-year student. She's in the girls team of kyūdō.
Yūna Hanazawa (花沢 ゆうな, Hanazawa Yūna)
Voiced by: Miyuri Shimabukuro[5] (Japanese); Savanna Menzel (English)
Yuna is a first-year student. She's in the girls team of kyūdō.
Tomio Morioka (森岡 富男, Morioka Tomio)
Voiced by: Katsumi Suzuki (Japanese); Ty Mahany (English)[5][4]
Tomio, also called Tommy-sensei or the Oni Archer, is the teacher who acts as the Kyūdō Club advisor. He holds a 6-dan rank in kyūdō but his back often goes out soon after he shoots.
Masaki Takigawa (滝川 雅貴, Takigawa Masaki)
Voiced by: Shintarō Asanuma (Japanese); Joe Daniels (English)[6][4]
Masaki is a Senior Shrine Priest at Yuta Shrine, later becomes the coach for the Kyūdō Club. He holds a 5-dan rank in kyūdō. At one point he, like Minato, had target panic and temporarily lost his ability to shoot properly.

Kirisaki High School Archery Club

[edit]
Shū Fujiwara (藤原 愁, Fujiwara Shū)
Voiced by: Kensho Ono[6] (Japanese); Scott Gibbs (English)
Shu is a first-year Student, also the former teammate of Minato and Seiya in middle school. He and Minato had the same archery teacher before going to the same middle school. Stoic and solitary, he values his rivalry with Minato but considers motivations unlike his own to be unworthy.
Daigo Sase (Sase Daigo)
Voiced by: Yu Miyazaki (Japanese); Adam Gibbs (English)
Daigo is a third-year student. He's also the vice-captain of the Kyūdō Club.
Senichi Sugawara (Sugawara Senichi)
Voiced by: Yūsuke Kobayashi (Japanese); Greg Cote (English)
Senichi is a first-year student. He is the identical twin to Manji, who is in the same club. Seemingly interchangeable with his brother, they viciously mock competitors and look down on those they don't see as talented. They both use an unusually quick release style but remain highly accurate archers.
Manji Sugawara (Sugawara Manji)
Voiced by: Kōhei Amasaki (Japanese); Anthony Hunter (English)
Manji is a first-year student. He is the identical twin to Senichi, who is in the same club. Seemingly interchangeable with his brother, they viciously mock competitors and look down on those they don't see as talented. They both use an unusually quick release style but remain highly accurate archers.
Hiroki Motomura (Motomura Hiroki)
Voiced by: Takuma Terashima (Japanese); Mike Haimoto (English)
Hiroki is a third-year student who is the captain of the Kyūdō Club.

Tsujimine High School Archery Club

[edit]
Eisuke Nikaidō (二階堂 永亮, Nikaidō Eisuke)
Voiced by: Jun Fukuyama[7]
Kōshirō Fuwa (不破 晃士郎, Fuwa Kōshirō)
Voiced by: Takayuki Kondo[8]
Tōma Higuchi (樋口 柊馬, Higuchi Tōma)
Voiced by: Yūya Hirose[8]
Reiji Aragaki (荒垣 黎司, Aragaki Reiji)
Voiced by: Yūichirō Umehara[8]
Kenyū Ōtaguro (大田黒 賢有, Ōtaguro Kenyū)
Voiced by: Yōhei Azakami[8]

Media

[edit]

Light novels

[edit]
No. Release date ISBN
1December 26, 2016[9]978-4-907064-59-4
2February 9, 2018[9]978-4-907064-77-8
3August 19, 2022[9]978-4-910052-29-8

Anime

[edit]
See also: Tsurune: The Movie – The First Shot

An anime television series adaptation was originally scheduled to premiere on October 15, but due to organizational issues, the series aired from October 22, 2018, to January 21, 2019, on NHK.[10][11][a] The series was produced by Kyoto Animation and was directed by Takuya Yamamura, with Michiko Yokote handling the series' scripts, and Miku Kadowaki designing the characters. Harumi Fūki composed the series' music.[1] The opening theme song is "Naru" by Luck Life,[12] and the ending theme is "Orange-iro" (オレンジ色) by ChouCho.[13] The series was simulcast by Crunchyroll.[14] Sentai Filmworks has acquired the series for distribution in North America, Australasia, South America, and other territories.[15] An unaired 14th episode was screened at an event on March 3, 2019 and released with the first Blu-ray/DVD on May 1, 2019, with Crunchyroll later releasing it in English.[16]

On October 22, 2020, it was revealed that the series would be receiving a new anime film project.[17] The film, titled Tsurune: The Movie – The First Shot (劇場版ツルネ －はじまりの一射－, Gekijōban Tsurune: Hajimari no Issha), premiered in Japan on August 19, 2022.[18] It serves as a compilation of the first season with new scenes.

On the day of the film's premiere, it was announced that the series would be receiving a second season, subtitled The Linking Shot (つながりの一射, Tsunagari no Issha), with Yamamura returning as director. It premiered on January 5, 2023, and ended on March 30, 2023.[7][8] The opening theme song is "°C" by Luck Life, and the ending theme song is "Hitominaka" (ヒトミナカ) by Tei.[19]

Season 1

[edit]
No. Title Directed by Written by Original air date
1"The Boy Suddenly Takes the Archery Grounds"
Transliteration: "Shōnen wa Yaniwa ni" (Japanese: 少年は矢庭に)		Takuya YamamuraMichiko YokoteOctober 22, 2018 (2018-10-22)
2"Tense as a Bowstring"
Transliteration: "Ya mo Tate mo Tamarazu" (Japanese: 矢も楯も堪らず)		Haruka FujitaMichiko YokoteOctober 29, 2018 (2018-10-29)
3"Straight After the Meeting"
Transliteration: "Deai no Yasaki" (Japanese: 出会いの矢先)		Yasuhiro TakemotoHiroyuki YoshinoNovember 5, 2018 (2018-11-05)
4"A Mismatch"
Transliteration: "Awanai Hazu" (Japanese: 合わない筈)		Shinpei SawaMichiko YokoteNovember 12, 2018 (2018-11-12)
5"Bolt From the Blue"
Transliteration: "Ya no Tsukai de" (Japanese: 矢の使いで)		Taichi OgawaMichiko YokoteNovember 19, 2018 (2018-11-19)
6"Reason to Shoot"
Transliteration: "Yumihiku Wake" (Japanese: 弓引く理由)		Naoko YamadaMichiko YokoteNovember 26, 2018 (2018-11-26)
7"Reunion"
Transliteration: "Sai, kai" (Japanese: 再、会)		Noriyuki KitanoharaHiroyuki YoshinoDecember 3, 2018 (2018-12-03)
8"Pointing the Arrow"
Transliteration: "Ya o Mukete" (Japanese: 矢を向けて)		Minoru ŌtaHiroyuki YoshinoDecember 10, 2018 (2018-12-10)
9"Unrevealed Hand"
Transliteration: "Akasenu Tenouchi" (Japanese: 明かせぬ手の内)		Eisaku KawanamiMichiko YokoteDecember 17, 2018 (2018-12-17)
10"Inseparable Heart"
Transliteration: "Hanarenu Kokoro" (Japanese: 離れぬ心)		Yasuhiro TakemotoMichiko YokoteDecember 24, 2018 (2018-12-24)
11"Unreachable Pain"
Transliteration: "Karahazu no Itami" (Japanese: 空筈の痛み)		Shinpei SawaHiroyuki YoshinoJanuary 7, 2019 (2019-01-07)
12"Five Arrows"
Transliteration: "Gohon no Ya" (Japanese: 五本の矢)		Taichi OgawaHiroyuki YoshinoJanuary 14, 2019 (2019-01-14)
13"Irreplaceable"
Transliteration: "Kakegae no Nai" (Japanese: かけがえのない)		Minoru Ōta
Takuya Yamamura		Michiko YokoteJanuary 21, 2019 (2019-01-21)
OVA"For Better or Worse"
Transliteration: "Yabai" (Japanese: 矢場い)		Noriyuki KitanoharaMichiko YokoteMarch 3, 2019 (2019-03-03)

Season 2

[edit]
No. Title Directed by Written by Original air date
1"Summer Calls"
Transliteration: "Natsu e no Yagoe" (Japanese: 夏への矢声)		Takuya YamamuraMichiko YokoteJanuary 5, 2023 (2023-01-05)
2"All in the Mind"
Transliteration: "Ki wa, Wa o Kakeru You ni" (Japanese: 気は、輪をかけるように)		Taichi OgawaMichiko YokoteJanuary 12, 2023 (2023-01-12)
3"Winds of a Brewing Storm"
Transliteration: "Asa'arashi ga Fuku" (Japanese: 朝嵐が吹く)		Noriyuki KitanoharaMichiko YokoteJanuary 19, 2023 (2023-01-19)
4"Broken Tempo"
Transliteration: "Hyōshi no Ōbanare" (Japanese: 拍子の大離れ)		Tatsuya IshiharaMichiko YokoteJanuary 26, 2023 (2023-01-26)
5"Push and Pull"
Transliteration: "Oshite, Hiite" (Japanese: 押し手、引い手)		Eisaku KawanamiHiroyuki YoshinoFebruary 2, 2023 (2023-02-02)
6"Taking Shape"
Transliteration: "Himezori Naru" (Japanese: 姫反り成る)		Noriyuki KitanoharaHiroyuki YoshinoFebruary 9, 2023 (2023-02-09)
7"Unwavering Spirit"
Transliteration: "Matoiru Kokoro" (Japanese: 的射る心)		Minoru ŌtaMichiko YokoteFebruary 16, 2023 (2023-02-16)
8"Trajectory"
Transliteration: "Yasujimichi" (Japanese: 矢筋道)		Tatsuya IshiharaMichiko YokoteFebruary 23, 2023 (2023-02-23)
9"Bending Will"
Transliteration: "Urazoru Ishi" (Japanese: 裏反る意志)		Mei IsaiHiroyuki YoshinoMarch 2, 2023 (2023-03-02)
10"Draw of a New Dawn"
Transliteration: "Katte na Yoake" (Japanese: 勝手な夜明け)		Eisaku KawanamiHiroyuki YoshinoMarch 9, 2023 (2023-03-09)
11"Falling Into Place"
Transliteration: "Ikiau Basho" (Japanese: 息合う場所)		Minoru ŌtaMichiko YokoteMarch 16, 2023 (2023-03-16)
12"The Linking Shot"
Transliteration: "Tsunagari no Issha" (Japanese: 繋がりの一射)		Takuya YamamuraMichiko YokoteMarch 23, 2023 (2023-03-23)
13"Resounding Release"
Transliteration: "Ki, Harau Meigen" (Japanese: 気、祓う鳴弦)		Eisaku KawanamiHaruna MatsudaMarch 30, 2023 (2023-03-30)

Notes

[edit]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Tsurune

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Tsurune is a Japanese series written by Kotoko Ayano and illustrated by Chinatsu Morimoto. The first novel won a Special Judge Award in the Awards in 2016 and was first published by under its KA Esuma Bunko imprint on December 26, 2016. The series, which consists of three volumes as of the latest release, follows Minato Narumiya, a high school freshman who transfers to Kazemai High School to escape —the traditional Japanese discipline—after a traumatic incident during that caused him to develop , leading to inaccurate shots. Despite his reluctance, Minato is recruited by the school's kyudo club advisor, Mr. Tommy, and reconnects with old rival and friend Seiya Takehaya, forming a team that strives to overcome personal and competitive challenges to qualify for the national tournament. The narrative emphasizes themes of personal growth, friendship, and the mental discipline required in kyudo, portraying not merely as a sport but as a meditative practice that demands harmony between mind, body, and bow. adapted the novels into a 13-episode television series titled Tsurune: Kazemai Kōkō Kyūdō-bu, which aired from October to December 2018, directed by Takuya Yamamura with series composition by . This was followed by a compilation film, Tsurune: The First Shot, released in Japanese theaters on August 19, 2022, and a second television season, Tsurune: The Linking Shot, which premiered in January 2023 and ran for 12 episodes, continuing the story into the national tournament arc. Notable for its fluid animation of archery sequences and subtle character development, Tsurune received acclaim for highlighting the psychological aspects of , particularly in the context of youth ensemble dynamics, and holds historical significance as one of Kyoto Animation's projects produced before and after the arson attack on their studio. The series has been licensed internationally for streaming on platforms such as and HIDIVE, broadening its reach to global audiences interested in anime with a focus on emotional introspection rather than intense competition.

Background

Kyūdō

Kyūdō, known as "the way of the bow," is the modern Japanese martial art of archery, evolving from the ancient practice of kyūjutsu, which originated during the Yayoi period around 300 BCE as a skill essential for hunting and warfare. By the Edo period (1603–1868), amid prolonged peace, archery shifted from a combat technique to a disciplined art form emphasizing spiritual and moral cultivation, integrating Zen Buddhist principles of mindfulness and harmony between mind, body, and bow. This transformation positioned kyūdō as an ascetic practice focused on self-improvement, where the archer's inner state is reflected in the arrow's flight, prioritizing form and concentration over mere accuracy. Central to kyūdō is specialized equipment designed for precision and ritual. The , an asymmetric longbow exceeding 2 meters in length, features a shorter grip positioned one-third from the bottom to accommodate the archer's or standing posture, crafted traditionally from bamboo and wood for flexibility and resonance. Arrows, known as ya, are straight-shafted with from bird feathers and nocks suited to the yumi's string, varying in length based on the archer's draw. Upon release, the bowstring produces a distinctive resonant hum called tsurune, symbolizing the of the shot and evoking a meditative calm in the practice. The shooting process follows eight fundamental stages, known as shahō hassetsu, which integrate physical alignment with mental focus to achieve a unified form.
  • Ashibumi (footing): The archer positions the feet shoulder-width apart, perpendicular to the target line, distributing weight evenly for stability.
  • Dozukuri (body build): The upper body is aligned vertically, with shoulders relaxed and level, centering ki (energy) in the tanden (lower abdomen).
  • Yugamae (preparation): The bow and arrow are readied, including nocking the arrow and gripping the bow, while viewing the target.
  • Uchiokoshi (raising the bow): The bow is raised smoothly from the hip to above the head, arms extended at shoulder height.
  • Hikiwake (drawing the bow): The string is drawn back symmetrically to full draw, aligning elbows and shoulders.
  • Kai (full draw): The archer holds the full draw position, unifying mind and body in composure before release.
  • Hanare (release): The arrow is released naturally through body expansion, with the drawing hand moving rearward without force.
  • Zanshin (remaining mind): The archer maintains alert posture and mental clarity after release, observing the arrow's flight.
In competitions, employs a target (mato) typically 36 cm in diameter, shot from 28 meters, where success is scored by (tekichū) on the target face versus misses, with archers shooting sets of four arrows to determine advancement by number of . Tournaments structure includes individual events and team formats with three to five members combining scores in elimination rounds, often held at national or international levels like the World Kyudo Taikai. Within Japanese high schools, thrives as a bukatsu (extracurricular club activity), introduced in the Taisho era (1912–1926) and formalized post-World War II in 1949 as a means to cultivate and , with nearly all schools offering clubs where students practice after classes to foster perseverance and focus. Unlike sports prioritizing victory, bukatsu stresses mental composure and ethical growth, training participants to confront inner distractions through repeated form refinement over raw athleticism. 's principles of harmony and precision thus provide a framework for in the series.

Creation and development

Kotoko Ayano, the author of Tsurune, drew inspiration from the Japanese archery discipline of , focusing on its technical precision, auditory elements, and psychological demands. Ayano conducted extensive research into practices, incorporating authentic terminology such as the "eight stages of shooting" (shahō hassetsu) and the phenomenon of premature release known as sōki (), which she portrays as a manifestation of mental pressure akin to adolescent struggles. Her exploration extended to the sounds of the sport, particularly the resonant bowstring vibration termed tsurune—a clear, resonant tone symbolizing a perfect shot—and the arrow's whistle (yagoe), which varies with environmental factors like wind and the archer's mindset. The series originated from Ayano's submission to the 7th Kyoto Animation Awards in 2016, originally titled Yata no Mori Kyūdōjō. It received the Special Judge Award in the novel category, leading to its publication by 's imprint, KA Esuma Bunko, in 2016. This accolade marked the franchise's entry into , with the centering on high archers overcoming personal barriers to achieve harmonious shots. The core motif of tsurune as the ideal bowstring sound became the series' title, encapsulating the blend of sports realism and coming-of-age . Chinatsu Morimoto served as the for the initial volume, contributing character designs that capture the poised and underlying tension of practitioners in dynamic stances. Ayano's conceptualization emphasized sōki () not merely as a technical flaw but as a for youthful anxiety, grounding the story in 's mental discipline while exploring themes of resilience and self-discovery. From its inception through the 2016 award, discussions with publisher Kyoto Animation—known for its animation productions—laid the groundwork for multimedia expansion, culminating in a television adaptation announced in 2017 and aired in 2018.

Story

Plot

Minato Narumiya, a talented young archer, develops target panic during his middle school's final tournament, experiencing a haunting sensation of time slowing to a crawl—often described as "bullet time"—while hearing a distorted version of the tsurune, the resonant sound of a released bowstring. This traumatic event causes his shots to falter, leading to his team's defeat and his subsequent withdrawal from kyūdō altogether. Entering Kazemai High School, Minato initially avoids despite encouragement from his childhood friends Seiya Takehaya and Nanao Kisaragi, who have joined the newly revived club. A chance encounter at the Yata no Mori range with the skilled shooter Masaki Takigawa reignites Minato's passion, prompting him to rejoin the club alongside the determined first-year Kaito Onogi. The all-freshman team, under coach Masaki Takigawa, undergoes rigorous training to qualify for the prefectural tournament, facing internal challenges like Minato's lingering anxiety and the need to build cohesion. As the Kazemai club advances, they clash with rivals from Kirisaki High School, known for their aggressive style led by Shuu Fujimura, and the highly disciplined Tsujimine High School team led by Eisuke Nikaidō. Key tournament matches expose team dynamics, with Minato's breakthroughs in overcoming his during high-pressure shots highlighting personal growth amid fierce competition. Club recruitment struggles intensify as the group expands, while the pursuit of the "true tsurune"—a pure, harmonious bowstring sound—becomes a unifying goal, manifesting in techniques like precise yugamae stances during pivotal scenes. Across their high school journey, Minato confronts his trauma head-on in national-level competitions, supported by his teammates' collective resolve. From prefectural victories to nationals contention, the narrative emphasizes teamwork and mutual encouragement over individual triumphs, culminating in the club's evolution into a stronger unit with new second-year members and emerging rivals, solidifying their path toward excellence.

Themes

In Tsurune, the central motif of "tsurune"—the resonant hum of the bowstring upon release—symbolizes purity, unwavering focus, and the archer's path to , evoking a harmonious unity between body, mind, and spirit in practice. This sound, when clear and true, represents an ideal state of meditative concentration, while its distorted echoes signify inner turmoil, such as or emotional , underscoring the narrative's emphasis on achieving mental clarity through disciplined . The series explores overcoming trauma through the lens of , or hayake, portraying it as an for anxiety, regret, and psychological blocks that disrupt one's flow. emerges as a therapeutic mechanism for emotional healing, where persistent practice and supportive relationships gradually alleviate these barriers, illustrating that trauma requires ongoing communal effort rather than instant resolution. Teamwork and are depicted as complementary forces, balancing individual technical mastery with to foster mutual growth during competitions. Rather than framing rivalries as zero-sum conflicts, Tsurune presents them as catalysts for personal and group evolution, where shared challenges in refine both solitary precision and ensemble synchronization. Coming-of-age elements weave through depictions of high life, highlighting the strengthening of bonds and the shift from personal isolation to communal belonging, with kyūdō's discipline shaping participants' sense of identity. This transition emphasizes how structured practice cultivates resilience and self-awareness amid adolescent uncertainties. Cultural undertones infuse the story with , particularly wabi-sabi, which celebrates the beauty of imperfection and transience within archery's meditative rituals. Kyūdō's philosophical roots in principles, including wabi-sabi's embrace of humble simplicity and natural flux, mirror the narrative's focus on accepting flaws as integral to spiritual and technical growth.

Characters

Kazemai High School Archery Club

The Kazemai High School Club serves as the primary focus of the Tsurune series, featuring a group of high school students united by their passion for kyudo and their collective journey toward personal and team improvement. As an team with limited initial resources and experience, the club emphasizes , mutual encouragement, and persistent to overcome challenges, turning internal tensions into opportunities for bonding and development. Their dynamics highlight themes of resilience and , with members supporting one another through dedicated practice sessions that resolve conflicts and build confidence. Minato Narumiya is the central protagonist, a first-year student renowned for his natural talent in kyudo but plagued by , which causes hesitation and inaccuracy during shots. He grapples with rediscovering his passion for the sport and pursuing his "true tsurune," the ideal resonance of the arrow's flight that symbolizes perfect form. In the adaptation, Minato is voiced by . Seiya Takehaya, Minato's childhood friend and an optimistic first-year, brings levity and unwavering emotional support to the club, often providing while demonstrating reliable skills. His close relationship with Minato helps anchor the team's morale during tough times. Seiya is voiced by Aoi Ichikawa in the . Nanao Kisaragi, the calm and dependable first-year , excels in maintaining coordination and offering steady guidance to newer members. His composed demeanor and strategic insight make him a pillar of the club's structure, ensuring smooth collaboration during practices. Nanao is voiced by in the adaptation. Kaito Onogi, a serious-minded first-year, starts as a rigid recruit but evolves through mentorship from seniors, learning to balance discipline with flexibility in his approach to kyudo. His growth reflects the club's nurturing environment, contributing to the 's overall progress. Kaito is voiced by in the . The club is advised by teacher Tomio Morioka, commonly known as Tommy-sensei, with coaching from Masaki Takigawa (voiced by Shintarō Asanuma), a dedicated advisor who motivates the members with his expertise and enthusiasm for kyudo, playing a key role in their technical and mental development. Other supporting members, such as Ryohei Yamanouchi (voiced by Ryōta Suzuki), provide additional depth through minor roles that reinforce the group's familial atmosphere. Tommy-sensei is voiced by Katsumi Suzuki in the . In contrast to rival clubs' more competitive edges, Kazemai's harmonious dynamics foster a supportive spirit that drives their narrative arc.

Kirisaki High School Archery Club

The Kirisaki High School Club serves as a primary rival to the Kazemai High School Club, characterized by its status as a kyudo powerhouse with a competitive edge that highlights themes of pressure and personal growth in the series. The team employs a style emphasizing precision and intensity, often leading to high-stakes confrontations that reveal both strengths and internal conflicts among its members. This combative mentality positions them as narrative foils to the protagonists, underscoring contrasts in and individual motivations. The club is led by third-year captain Hiroki Motomura, a composed and gentlemanly figure who speaks politely to all and provides steady guidance despite the high expectations placed on the team. Motomura, who advanced from Kirisaki Middle School, holds a top-level ranking in archery and balances rigorous training with support for his teammates' personal interests, such as idols. Voiced by Takuma Terashima in the anime adaptation. A standout member is first-year Shu , renowned for his elegant yet formidable technique, earning him the nickname "Prince" due to his noble bearing and exceptional skill. shares a training history with Minato Narumiya under the same master, fostering a intense rivalry after a close loss in the prefectural tournament final; his unyielding practice regimen drives the team's pursuit of perfection. Voiced by . Third-year Daigo Sase contributes to the club's dynamic with his passionate dedication to kyudo alongside an enthusiastic for the idol "Noririn" from the group Purinsechia, which occasionally influences team interactions but underscores his loyalty as a longtime member and roommate of Motomura from middle school. Voiced by Yū Miyazaki. First-year Senichi Sugawara, a loyal follower who admires Shu Fujiwara (voiced by ), along with his twin brother Manji Sugawara (voiced by ), exemplifies the team's "win-at-all-costs" ethos through their unwavering support for upperclassmen, though the club's pressure cooker environment exposes vulnerabilities like among newer members. The advisor, while less prominent, reinforces the intense atmosphere by overseeing practices that prioritize power shots and intimidation tactics. Throughout the story, Kirisaki's members evolve from antagonistic figures in early tournament arcs to more relatable ones, displaying emotional depth and the toll of their perfectionist culture during joint practices with Kazemai, where subtle vulnerabilities emerge.

Tsujimine High School Archery Club

The Tsujimine High School Club serves as a prominent rival to the Kazemai High School team in the Tsurune series, renowned for its elite status and disciplined pursuit of excellence despite operating without a formal coach or dedicated . The club emphasizes precision and tradition, with members exhibiting a composed demeanor and technical prowess that position them as national contenders, often serving as aspirational benchmarks for other teams in competitive tournaments. The club's leadership is held by third-year student Reiji Aragaki, the official club president, who embodies stoic discipline through his quiet and mysterious nature; he typically wears a black mask outside of shooting sessions, maintaining focus with a of 177 cm and a Virgo star sign. Voiced by in the adaptation, Aragaki represents the ideal of unflinching form, contributing to the team's reputation for flawless technique. Another third-year, Tōma Higuchi, brings a relaxed yet reliable presence to the group, moving at his own pace despite limited formal knowledge; standing at 164 cm with an Aries star sign, he supports the team's dynamics through steady participation. Voiced by Hirose, Higuchi highlights the club's minimal internal drama, prioritizing collective harmony over individual flair. Among the second-year members, Eisuke Nikaidō stands out as the leader, having guided the club from obscurity to national qualification through rigorous training of its novice members; at 174 cm with an Aquarius star sign, he is depicted as highly skilled and strategic, fostering a culture of analytical precision. Voiced by , Nikaidō's influence underscores the club's aspirational role, pushing rivals like Kazemai to refine their own techniques. Kōshirō , another second-year at 176 cm with a Scorpio star sign, complements this by observing team dynamics closely and providing subtle strategic input, often with a yet focused demeanor. Voiced by Takayuki Kondō, Fuwa aids in maintaining the club's disciplined environment. Rounding out the core team is second-year Kenyū Ōtaguro, whose muscular build (181 cm, Cancer star sign) and dynamic shooting style, powered by a grand inherited bow, emphasize physical precision and tradition; voiced by , he exemplifies the club's emphasis on robust, tradition-rooted performance. The club's internal dynamics revolve around mutual respect and minimal conflict, with members upholding kyūdō's traditional principles through self-directed practice and shared goals, distinguishing their composed style from more passionate approaches seen in other clubs during tournaments. Introduced prominently in the later volumes of the light novels and the second anime season, Tsurune: The Linking Shot, the Tsujimine club functions as elevated , challenging protagonists to elevate their skills toward national competition without overt antagonism.

Media

Light novels

The Tsurune light novel series, written by Kotoko Ayano and illustrated by Chinatsu Morimoto, is published by under the KA Esuma Bunko imprint. The series comprises three volumes in bunko format, released from December 26, 2016, to August 19, 2022. Volume 1, released on December 26, 2016, introduces the core elements of the Kazemai High School Club. Volume 2, published on February 9, 2018, explores tournament dynamics and interpersonal tensions within the club. Volume 3, issued on August 19, 2022, builds to the culmination of competitive events and key character developments. Morimoto's illustrations feature full-color plates in each volume, emphasizing dynamic sequences and character expressions central to the theme. The series has seen reprints following the adaptation's release, boosting through updated editions. The light novels directly informed the narrative structure of the subsequent series. As of November 2025, the series remains available exclusively in Japanese editions, with no official English translation announced.

Anime adaptations

The first adaptation of Tsurune is the 13-episode television series Tsurune: Kazemai Kōkō Kyūdō-bu, produced by and directed by Takuya Yamamura. It aired from October 22, 2018, to January 21, 2019, on , BS11, and other networks in . An (OVA) titled Tsurune: Kazemai Kōkō Kyūdō-bu - Yabai followed, consisting of a single episode released on May 1, 2019. In 2022, released the compilation film Tsurune: The Movie – The First Shot, also directed by Takuya Yamamura. Premiering in on August 19, 2022, the 102-minute feature recaps the first season while incorporating new animated footage focused on Minato Narumiya's experiences in kyudo. The film emphasizes the series' sequences with enhanced visual effects characteristic of the studio's style. The second season, Tsurune: Tsunagari no Issha (also known as Tsurune: The Linking Shot), comprises 13 episodes and continues the narrative from the tournament arcs introduced in the light novels. Directed by Takuya Yamamura, it aired from January 5 to March 30, 2023, on the same broadcast networks as the first season, featuring improved fluid animation in scenes. For distribution, the first season streamed internationally on simulcast during its original run, while the second season was available on HIDIVE. Home video releases, including Blu-ray editions, were handled by in from 2019 to 2023. The adaptations maintain high fidelity to the source light novels by Kotoko Ayano, adapting key volumes with minimal deviations in plot progression.

Production

Light novel production

Following the win of the Special Judge Award at the 7th Kyoto Animation Awards in 2016, Kotoko Ayano undertook an iterative writing process for the Tsurune light novels, refining drafts based on prior contest feedback to ensure narrative cohesion around themes of personal growth through . Ayano's research emphasized authenticity, involving visits to multiple kyudojo to observe practices and incorporating natural elements like bird behaviors—such as those of the and —for atmospheric depth, while integrating feedback on accuracy from consultants including Koyama Kyuugu and the All Nippon Kyudo Federation. This phase spanned from the 2016 submission and award to the completion of the second volume in 2018, with a third volume released on August 19, 2022, marking the initial arc's production timeline. KA Esuma Bunko, Kyoto Animation's imprint, facilitated editorial collaboration, with editor T. overseeing refinements to balance intense sports action sequences with emotional drama; available accounts indicate no extensive post-award revisions beyond polishing for publication. Chinatsu Morimoto contributed character designs and initial illustrations, focusing on capturing the tension and fluidity of moments to complement the text's psychological intensity. Key challenges included accurately depicting terminology and the sport's mental demands—such as overcoming "early release" flaws—while keeping the content approachable for non-experts, as highlighted in translation notes on technical precision. Ayano structured the early volumes with an open-ended resolution to the core conflicts, intentionally leaving room for expansion and adaptations like the subsequent series.

Anime production

Kyoto Animation began on the Tsurune in 2017, following the announcement of the project on of that year, drawing on the studio's established expertise in sports such as Free! and to portray the disciplined world of . The studio assembled a dedicated in-house team, emphasizing collaboration to capture the nuances of as a meditative martial art. Key creative personnel included director Takuya Yamamura, who helmed both seasons and focused on balancing technical accuracy with emotional depth in the characters' journeys. Series composition was overseen by for both seasons, adapting the light novels' introspective narrative while streamlining events for episodic flow. Character designer Miku Kadowaki translated illustrator Chinatsu Morimoto's original designs into fluid, expressive , ensuring the archers' postures and expressions conveyed inner turmoil and focus. The production highlighted innovative animation techniques for sequences, employing meticulous frame-by-frame animation informed by reference footage of real practitioners to achieve fluid, realistic motion in drawing and releasing the bow. innovations emphasized the titular "tsurune"—the resonant twang of a perfect bowstring release—with layered audio effects that heightened tension during shots, blending natural recordings with synthesized elements for dramatic impact. Adaptation choices involved selective liberties, such as condensing certain training montages for better pacing and expanding on rival characters' motivations in the second to build interpersonal dynamics beyond the light novels' foundation. Production faced significant challenges following the July 2019 arson attack on Kyoto Animation's Studio 1, which claimed 36 lives and destroyed key assets, delaying workflows and requiring the surviving team to rebuild resources while honoring lost colleagues. Music production featured composer Fūki for the first season, whose score incorporated traditional Japanese to evoke serenity and intensity, with an original released in 2019. For the second season, took over composition duties, delivering a 2023 that amplified rhythmic elements to underscore archery's meditative rhythm. Opening and ending themes were performed by artists including for upbeat openings and Coala Mode and Tei for reflective closings, enhancing the series' emotional resonance.

Reception

Critical reception

The light novels by Kotoko Ayano have been praised for their authentic portrayal of , drawing on detailed research into the sport's etiquette, equipment, and psychological aspects, as well as for exploring the emotional growth of young archers. The first volume, originally submitted under the title Yata no Mori Kyudojo, won the Special Jury Prize at the 7th Awards in 2016, highlighting its strong narrative foundation in a competitive field of entries. Subsequent volumes have been noted for their introspective depth, though some critiques point to occasional pacing issues in later installments that slow the progression of team dynamics. The first season, adapted by in 2018, earned acclaim for its evocative animation of sequences, which capture the tension and release of shots through fluid movements and airy compositions that emphasize the sport's meditative quality. awarded it a B+ grade, commending the subtle character development—particularly Minato Narumiya's internal struggles—and the compassionate handling of themes like personal baggage and friendship, while noting a slower build-up and familiar plot beats that may feel secondary to the focus. highlighted the series' departure from typical sports protagonists, praising Minato's nuanced anxiety as a fresh take on character-driven blended with kyūdō's unexciting yet introspective sport. The 2022 film Tsurune: The First Shot and the second season Tsurune: The Linking Shot (2023) received higher praise for escalating the drama through intensified rivalries and visual polish, with the sequel introducing a more confrontational that heightens emotional stakes without fully disrupting the series' zen-like atmosphere. Reviewers lauded the enhanced visuals and , including the sharp "tsurune" bowstring snaps and ASMR-quality audio that immerse viewers in the sport's rhythm, crediting director Takuya Yamamura's precise handling of tension-relaxation cycles. Anitrendz called the second season one of the best of its airing period, emphasizing improved character arcs and tournament intensity. The film, in particular, was ranked fourth in Filmarks' first-day satisfaction survey in , with audiences appreciating its focus on psychological growth in . Tsurune: The Linking Shot earned nominations in the 10th Anime Trending Awards for categories including art direction. Across adaptations, common critiques include themes that echo other sports like Free!, with archetypal rivalries and recovery arcs feeling derivative despite the unique setting. Positives consistently highlight the sound design's role in elevating quiet moments and Yamamura's direction in balancing introspection with competition. As of November 2025, MyAnimeList user scores stand at 7.68 for the first season and 8.09 for the second, reflecting growing appreciation for the series' refinements.

Popularity

Tsurune has achieved notable commercial success through its media releases and associated products. The first season's Blu-ray volumes regularly charted on Oricon's animation rankings in 2019, with Volume I debuting at #5 with 838 copies sold in its first week and Volume IV reaching #12 with 1,328 copies. Official merchandise, including plush toys, illustration works art books, and character song albums, has been widely available through licensed retailers, with collaborations extending to themed items like and sweets. The series has fostered a dedicated fan community, particularly among sports anime enthusiasts. It streams on , where it holds a 4.8/5 rating from over 6,000 user reviews, indicating strong viewer engagement. Fans have expressed appreciation for its character dynamics and kyūdō depictions in online discussions and promotional content shared by the platform. of characters from Tsurune appears at major events like , contributing to its visibility within anime subculture. Tsurune has exerted cultural influence by highlighting , the Japanese art of , in a manner that emphasizes discipline and personal growth. The anime's detailed portrayal has sparked interest in the sport as more than a competitive activity, aligning with kyūdō's philosophical roots. Accompanying media, such as the Tsurune: Kazemai Koukou Kyuudoubu Illustration Works art book, further extends its reach through visual storytelling. Internationally, Tsurune has gained traction in the West via streaming services and sports communities, praised for its nostalgic evocation of traditional Japanese elements blended with modern . The 2025 announcement of a third and final , set for broadcast in 2026 under director Takuya Yamamura at , has heightened anticipation among global fans. In terms of legacy, Tsurune stands as a benchmark for archery-themed , influencing subsequent works through its meticulous of techniques and emotional depth in team dynamics. The series has avoided major controversies, maintaining a positive reputation focused on its artistic and thematic strengths.

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