Non Non Biyori Movie: Vacation

Non Non Biyori Movie: Vacation – A Wholesome Escape That Feels Like Your Own Summer Memory

If you’ve ever daydreamed about ditching homework for a spontaneous beach trip with your weirdest, most beloved friends, Non Non Biyori Movie: Vacation is the anime equivalent of that perfect, sun-kissed day. Directed by Shin’ya Kawatsura and released in 2018, this film takes the slow, cozy charm of the original Non Non Biyori series and cranks it up with palm trees, ocean breezes, and a dose of nostalgia that’ll make you want to call your childhood crew.

The setup is simple—because why fix what isn’t broken? Summer’s winding down for the tiny Asahigaoka Branch School crew, and they’re squeezing every last drop of fun out of their rural days. Then, out of nowhere, Suguru Koshigaya (the quiet, reliable older brother of troublemaker Natsumi) wins a lottery grand prize: tickets to Okinawa. Cue chaos, excitement, and a road trip (well, plane trip) with everyone who matters—their teacher, the local candy store owner, and even Renge, the pint-sized philosopher who still says “nyanpasu” like it’s a sacred mantra.

For fans of the series, this movie is like slipping into your favorite hoodie. The humor is gentle but sharp: Komari still panics over being called “senpai” by Hotaru, Hikage-sensei is as spacey as ever, and Renge’s deadpan observations (“The ocean is big… like a really big puddle”) will make you snort-laugh into your popcorn. But what makes Vacation stand out is how it balances that comedy with heart. As one fan put it on MyAnimeList, “It’s like I was on vacation too—just by watching.” The animation of Okinawa is stunning: crystal-clear waters, neon sunsets, and even a detour to a starry beach that looks like it was painted by someone who really loves the sky.

The real magic, though, is in the little moments. Remember those summer trips where you met a random kid at the pool and became best friends in an hour? That’s exactly what happens with Natsumi and Aoi, a local Okinawan girl who teaches them badminton and shows them hidden spots only locals know. Their bond is quick—they only have a few days together—but it’s real. When Natsumi cries during their goodbye, you’ll feel it too. As another viewer wrote, “It brought back memories of making friends on holiday… then having to say goodbye way too early.” Renge even chimes in with a drawing that’s so cute, it’ll make your chest ache.

Not everyone will love it, of course. If you’re new to Non Non Biyori, the slow pace might feel boring—one critic called it “just another episode stretched into a movie.” And let’s be real: the plot isn’t groundbreaking. But that’s the point. This isn’t an action flick or a drama with plot twists. It’s a slice of life—literally. It’s about eating shaved ice until your tongue turns blue, chasing fireflies, and realizing that the best parts of summer aren’t the big plans, but the people you share them with.

For 20-somethings (or anyone who misses their childhood), this movie hits different. It’s a reminder of when “vacation” meant no Wi-Fi, no deadlines, and just… being. As one fan said, “It made me remember how to smile for no reason.” The stargazing scene at the end? Pure magic. The characters lie on the sand, pointing out constellations, and you’ll swear you can hear the waves.

Sure, there are tiny flaws. The soundtrack isn’t as catchy as the series’ theme song, and some of the side characters (looking at you, candy store owner) don’t get as much screen time as we’d like. But who cares? This movie isn’t about being perfect. It’s about feeling good. As one viewer summed it up: “I smiled the entire time. Even cried a little. 10/10.”

So grab your friends, a cold drink, and hit play. Non Non Biyori Movie: Vacation isn’t just an anime—it’s a hug. And in a world that’s always rushing, sometimes a hug is exactly what you need.

P.S. If you finish it and crave more? The series has a sequel (Non Non Biyori Nonstop) that’s just as cozy. You’re welcome.