Tsurune: Tsunagari no Issha [Season 2 Episodes 1-13]

Tsurune: Tsunagari no Issha Season 2 – Where Arrows Meet Heartstrings

If you thought archery was just about shooting arrows, Tsurune: Tsunagari no Issha Season 2 is here to prove you wrong. This Kyoto Animation gem, which aired its 13-episode run from January to March 2023, isn’t just a sports anime—it’s a love letter to growth, friendship, and the quiet magic of kyudo (Japanese archery). And let me tell you, fans are eating it up.

First off, let’s talk about the vibes. This season picks up right where the first left off, following Minato Narumiya and his Kazemai High kyudo team as they aim for the national stage. But don’t expect nonstop action—Tsurune moves at its own pace, and that’s exactly why it works. As one fan put it, “A bit slow in some ways, even the silly bits are rather subdued, but that’s more an advantage than a bad thing tbh.” The show takes its time to build tension, whether it’s in the quiet moments of practice or the nail-biting competition scenes. And when the action does hit? It’s chef’s kiss.

The animation? Stunning. KyoAni’s signature style shines here, with every frame looking like a painting. From the way sunlight filters through the archery range to the fluid motion of an arrow leaving the bow, you can tell the studio poured their heart into every detail. “I can’t with how pretty every single setting, every single moment, every single interaction is,” gushed another viewer. The chereography (yes, chereography—it’s that graceful) of the archery sequences is so smooth, you’ll find yourself pausing just to take it all in.

But Tsurune isn’t just eye candy. The characters are where it really hits home. Minato’s journey of overcoming his past insecurities, Shu’s struggle to live up to his little sister’s expectations, and the team’s unbreakable bond—these are the threads that make the story feel real. “Shu is such a good older brother,” one fan noted, and honestly, who can disagree? His relationship with his sister adds a sweet, relatable layer to the show. And let’s not forget the new rivals—like the charismatic Nikaido—who shake things up and push our heroes to grow.

The soundtrack, composed by Masaru Yokoyama, deserves a shoutout too. It’s the perfect blend of upbeat and emotional, elevating every scene. Whether it’s the hype of a competition or the quiet reflection of a character, the music hits just right. “The soundtrack really brings great hype and mood,” a viewer commented, and I couldn’t agree more.

Now, let’s address the elephant in the room: is this season better than the first? For many fans, yes. “Somehow, I’m enjoying this season much more than the first one,” admitted one viewer. The pacing feels tighter, the character development deeper, and the stakes higher. Even if you’re new to Tsurune, this season is a great entry point—though I’d still recommend watching the first season to get the full backstory.

Critics might say the show is too slow, but that’s part of its charm. Tsurune isn’t about flashy action; it’s about the journey. It’s about the small victories, the lessons learned, and the bonds that grow stronger with every shot. As one fan put it, “It has such a beautiful rhythm, it’s slow, controlled and poetic, it reflects kyudo in many ways.”

So, who should watch Tsurune: Tsunagari no Issha Season 2? If you love sports anime with heart, stunning animation, and characters you can root for, this is for you. It’s not just about archery—it’s about finding your target in life, even when the path is unclear. And let’s be real, in a world full of fast-paced shows, sometimes it’s nice to slow down and appreciate the beauty in the details.

In the end, Tsurune Season 2 is a masterpiece. It’s a show that makes you feel, whether you’re cheering for the team during a competition or wiping away a tear during a heartfelt moment. As one fan so perfectly put it, “Masterpiece. I’m grateful to be able to watch it.”

So grab your bow (or just your popcorn) and give it a shot. You won’t regret it. 🏹✨