Solo Camping for Two [Season 1 Episode 1]

Solo Camping for Two: A Cozy Escape with Hits and Misses

When Solo Camping for Two (Futari Soro Kyanpu) premiered on July 11, 2025, it stepped into the well-loved niche of “iyashikei” (healing) anime, following in the footsteps of hits like Laid-Back Camp. Produced by SynergySP and directed by Jun Hatori, this adaptation of Yudai Debata’s manga promised a blend of serene wilderness vibes and character-driven banter. But does it carve its own path, or is it just another campfire retread? Let’s dive into the first episode and the buzz it’s generated.

The Setup: Solitude Meets Chaos

The series kicks off with Gen Kinokura, a seasoned solo camper who lives for quiet nights under the stars. His peace is shattered when Shizuku Kusano, a college student and camping newbie, stumbles into his campsite—after getting lost and nearly freezing. Gen, initially annoyed by her intrusion, softens when he realizes she’s a disaster waiting to happen (and maybe because she’s a killer cook). What follows is the “solo camping for two” premise: two people camping separately but sharing meals and company, blurring the line between alone time and connection.

The Good: Cozy Vibes and Relatable Moments

Fans on MyAnimeList are quick to praise the show’s warm, laid-back energy. Shizuku’s cooking skills steal the spotlight—her meals look so good, you’ll want to grab a snack mid-episode. The banter between Gen and Shizuku feels natural: Gen’s gruff “leave me alone” attitude clashes with Shizuku’s persistent curiosity, creating a dynamic that’s equal parts funny and endearing. One viewer noted, “She’s pushy, but I do like her,” highlighting Shizuku’s charm even when she’s overstepping Gen’s boundaries.

The animation, while not groundbreaking, captures the beauty of Japan’s outdoors—think misty mountains, starry skies, and crackling campfires. The sound design also shines: the rustle of leaves, the pop of a beer can, and the distant call of birds make you feel like you’re right there in the woods.

The Bad: Slow Burn or Snooze Fest?

Critics argue the show’s biggest flaw is its pacing. “Camping techniques aren’t high on the list of interesting things to learn,” one user griped, questioning how the series could stretch to two cours (24 episodes). Gen’s voice acting also divides viewers: some found his whispery delivery “lifeless,” while others thought it fit his introverted personality. The cliché meet-cute—Gen catching Shizuku changing—didn’t help, with one fan admitting, “I dropped it before I started hating it.”

Shizuku’s inexperience leads to predictable rookie mistakes (like forgetting to reserve a tent), which some found repetitive. And while the chemistry between the leads grows, the slow burn of their relationship might test the patience of those craving faster plot development.

The Verdict: Worth the Hike?

For fans of slice-of-life anime, Solo Camping for Two is a solid pick. It’s not about high-stakes drama but the quiet joy of shared moments—like cooking ramen over a fire or fumbling through tent setup. The supporting cast, including Gen’s friend Akihito and the energetic cyclist Yui, adds depth, though some subplots (like the love triangle tease) feel forced.

The show’s strength lies in its ability to make camping feel accessible. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a total newbie, you’ll pick up tips (like how to pack a backpack or choose a tent) without feeling like you’re in a class. And let’s be real—who doesn’t love watching characters bond over good food and bad jokes?

Is it perfect? No. But if you’re looking for a show to unwind with after a long day, Solo Camping for Two is like a warm blanket: cozy, familiar, and just what you need. Just don’t expect it to reinvent the wheel—sometimes, a simple campfire is all you need to feel at home.

Final Score: 7/10 — A relaxing escape with enough heart to keep you coming back for more. Just maybe skip the first 10 minutes if Gen’s voice isn’t your vibe. Happy camping! 🏕️✨