Darkness, The Hat And The Travelers Of The Books [Season 1 Episodes 1-13]

Darkness, The Hat And The Travelers Of The Books: A Hidden 2000s Fantasy Gem

Ever missed someone so bad you’d chase them through magical worlds? That’s exactly what Hazuki does in this underrated 13-episode series (original name Yami to Bōshi to Hon no Tabibito), a 2003-2004 collaboration between Studio Deen (known for Fruits Basket) and Avex mode.

Hazuki’s story starts simple: she’s a high schooler with forbidden feelings for her adopted sister Hatsumi. When Hatsumi vanishes, Hazuki dives into a library of enchanted books—each a portal to a fantasy realm—to find her. Along the way, she befriends Meilin (a sassy fox spirit who’s low-key the best character), crosses paths with Princess Fuji (a dead ringer for Hatsumi), and dodges ninjas hunting Fuji’s mysterious power.

The vibe is classic early 2000s anime: soft art style, dreamy fantasy worlds (think floating castles and talking spirits), and a heart-tugging focus on longing. It’s not just about action—this show is all about Hazuki’s emotional journey: her guilt over hiding her feelings, her hope of seeing Hatsumi again, and the way she grows stronger with each world she visits.

Since it’s almost 20 years old, recent fan chats are hard to find (most online threads about it are from the mid-2000s!), but that’s part of its charm. It’s a hidden gem for anyone tired of generic isekais—no overpowered heroes here, just a girl with a lot of heart chasing what matters most.

The ending wraps things up with a bittersweet warmth that feels true to life: not every question gets answered, but Hazuki finds closure. If you love stories about love (romantic or not) and adventure with soul, this is a must-watch. You can stream it on Tubi—grab some snacks and dive in this weekend!

Rating: 4/5 fox spirits (Meilin alone is worth the watch)
Who should watch: Fans of Cardcaptor Sakura (for the magical vibes) or Yuri!!! on Ice (for the quiet emotional depth).
Pro tip: Keep an eye out for the scene where Meilin teaches Hazuki to trust her instincts—total friendship goals.

This show proves that old anime still have magic. Give it a chance—you won’t regret it! ✨
(Note: Recent fan discussions are scarce due to its age, but it’s a beloved cult classic among long-time anime fans.)