Tensui no Sakuna-hime: Kokorowa Inasaku Nisshi [Season 1 Episodes 1-2]

Tensui no Sakuna-hime: Kokorowa Inasaku Nisshi (Episodes 1-2): A Cozy Return to Yanato’s Fields

If you loved the original Sakuna: Of Rice and Ruin anime, get ready to sink your hands back into the soil—because Tensui no Sakuna-hime: Kokorowa Inasaku Nisshi (let’s just call it Kokorowa’s Diary for short) is here, and it’s like a warm hug from your favorite harvest goddess. This two-episode TV special picks up where the main series left off, and honestly? It’s exactly the kind of cozy, low-stakes story we needed after all those big fantasy battles.

First, let’s get the basics straight: this is a sequel to the original Tensui no Sakuna-hime (which is based on the super popular farming-action game by Edelweiss). The story is set in Yanato, that beautiful, mythic land split between the Lofty Realm (home of the gods) and the Lowly Realm (where humans scratch out a living). Our main girl is Sakuna, the half-warrior, half-harvest goddess who used to be a total slacker—until she had to learn to farm to earn her way back to the heavens. Now, in these specials, we get to see her all grown up, plus a lot more of Kokorowa, the human girl who’s become her right-hand (and maybe more? We’ll get to that).

The first thing you’ll notice is how pretty everything is. The animation is soft and vibrant, especially when they show the rice fields—golden, swaying stalks that look so real you can almost smell the fresh grain. And the action scenes? Even though this is mostly a slice-of-life, when Sakuna pulls out her divine scythe to fight those giant bugs (yes, bugs again—gross but cool), it’s just as flashy as the original series. Fans on MyAnimeList were hyped about that big bug battle in Episode 2: “That was some delicious looking rice… and a big, nasty bug was vanquished!” one user wrote. Relatable.

But the real heart of these episodes is the characters. Sakuna’s not the lazy kid she used to be—she’s actually acting like a proper goddess now, which is so satisfying to see. “It is great to see Sakuna when she matured and starts acting like a proper goddess,” one fan gushed. And Kokorowa? She’s finally in the spotlight! The original series focused a lot on Sakuna, but here, Kokorowa gets to shine as the hardworking, kind friend who’s always there for Sakuna. One comment summed it up perfectly: “Kokorowa finally the inspiration in Rice and the reason in love for Sakuna.”

Now, let’s talk about that ending. Some fans were calling it a “yuri fan rejoice” moment, but others weren’t so sure. Either way, the bond between Sakuna and Kokorowa is so sweet—they’re like two peas in a pod, supporting each other through every harvest and every bug attack. And even though the specials wrap up nicely, there are still loose ends: What happened to Sakuna’s parents? Will there be a Season 2? Fans are begging for more: “Season 2 when?! I hope this wasn’t the end,” one user pleaded. Another added, “I didn’t really want more of this show before, but I definitely do now.”

The best part about Kokorowa’s Diary is how it balances the cozy farming stuff with tiny bits of drama. You’ll find yourself smiling when they harvest the rice (seriously, that rice looks chef’s kiss), and holding your breath during the bug fights. It’s not a big, epic story—it’s a small, heartfelt one about friendship, growth, and the joy of growing something with your own hands. As one fan put it: “Far from perfect, but it’s so enjoyable and has such care put into its characters that I really don’t mind any of its flaws.”

If you’re into slice-of-life anime with a touch of fantasy, or if you just love stories about food and friendship, Kokorowa’s Diary is a must-watch. It’s short (only two episodes!), but it’s packed with warmth and charm. And who knows? Maybe if we all beg enough, we’ll get that Season 2. Until then, grab a bowl of rice, sit back, and enjoy this little gem.

P.S. The rice animation alone is worth the watch. Trust me. 🍚✨