Kashou no Tsuki: Aki Kyougen [OVA, 2 episodes]

Kashou no Tsuki: Aki Kyougen – A Tale of Love, Identity, and Feudal Magic

When it comes to anime that blend historical settings with supernatural elements, Kashou no Tsuki: Aki Kyougen stands out as a hidden gem from the late ’90s. This two-episode OVA, produced by Four Some Inc. and released between December 1998 and January 1999, tells the story of Arimasa Tsuchimikado and Kagetsu, a shape-shifting member of the Kouga tribe. The plot revolves around themes of identity, love, and loyalty, wrapped in a visually striking feudal Japan backdrop.

The Plot: A Rescue That Changes Everything

The story begins with a young Arimasa rescuing an injured cat, Kagetsu, and wishing for it to become human. Little does he know, Kagetsu is no ordinary feline but a member of the Kouga tribe, a group of shape-shifters. As Kagetsu grows up under Arimasa’s care, they face a pivotal moment in their life: choosing their permanent gender. This decision is further complicated by Kagetsu’s growing feelings for Arimasa and the interference of Kohryu, another Kouga tribesman who wants Kagetsu to abandon human life and return to the tribe.

The OVA’s brevity (just two episodes) means the pacing is tight, but some fans argue this works against it. One MyAnimeList user pointed out, “The story is a mess; it needs to be rearranged! Too bad because I liked the characters and their backstories a little.” While the narrative can feel rushed, the emotional core—Kagetsu’s struggle with identity and loyalty—shines through.

Visuals and Atmosphere

Visually, Kashou no Tsuki: Aki Kyougen captures the eerie beauty of feudal Japan with its muted color palette and detailed backgrounds. The animation, though dated by today’s standards, has a certain charm that fits the supernatural tone. The fire scenes, in particular, are hauntingly well-executed, adding to the tension as Kagetsu and Arimasa navigate Kohryu’s schemes.

One fan on MyAnimeList noted, “All was a conspiracy against Arimasa planned by Kohryu because he’s jealous that Kagetsu loves Arimasa!” This comment highlights the emotional stakes of the story—Kohryu’s jealousy isn’t just about tribal loyalty but also unrequited love, adding depth to what could have been a straightforward antagonist.

Themes: Identity and Choice

At its heart, Kashou no Tsuki: Aki Kyougen is about self-discovery. Kagetsu’s gender dilemma isn’t just a plot device; it’s a metaphor for the broader struggle of figuring out who you are and where you belong. The OVA doesn’t shy away from the weight of this decision, making Kagetsu’s journey feel deeply personal.

The dynamic between Kagetsu and Arimasa is another highlight. Their bond, built on years of trust and care, is tested by external forces, forcing both characters to confront their feelings. While the romance is subtle, it’s enough to leave an impression—especially in the final moments of the OVA.

Fan Reactions: Mixed but Intrigued

The discussions around Kashou no Tsuki: Aki Kyougen reveal a mix of frustration and fascination. Some viewers, like the one who called the story “a mess,” felt the pacing and narrative structure could have been smoother. Others, however, appreciated the unique premise and emotional payoff.

One thing fans agree on is the potential of the story. With richer world-building and more episodes, Kashou no Tsuki: Aki Kyougen could have been a classic. As it stands, it’s a compelling but flawed OVA that leaves you wanting more—whether that’s a good or bad thing depends on your patience for open-ended storytelling.

Final Verdict: Worth a Watch for Niche Fans

If you’re into supernatural historical dramas with a touch of romance, Kashou no Tsuki: Aki Kyougen is worth checking out. Its short runtime makes it an easy binge, and the themes of identity and love are timeless. Just don’t go in expecting a perfectly polished narrative—this is a story that thrives on its emotional beats rather than its plot mechanics.

In the end, Kashou no Tsuki: Aki Kyougen is a reminder of how anime can explore complex themes in bite-sized formats. It might not be flawless, but it’s a journey that lingers—much like Kagetsu’s struggle to choose between two worlds.