Natsume Yuujinchou

Both of the main characters can see spirits. Both series are episodic, they can be watched in almost any order. Both have a lot of drama packed into these short stories. 

report Recommended by Chicken008

Deals with the supernatural and very episodic. Has the same calm, bittersweet atmosphere at the end.  

report Recommended by kai_yukari

Though the two have their differences, both are about a main character who can see something others can't, and strives to help them. Also, both stories have a certain almost laid-back atmosphere to them. Natsume Yuujinchou, however, has more of a plot than Mushishi, as well as supporting characters that stay for more than one episode. 

report Recommended by zipperaward

If you liked Mushishi I believe you'll most definitely enjoy Natsume Yuujinchou. :) I could see similarities right off the bat, in how they both deal with spirits or other supernatural creatures. Both main characters have a sense of compassion when interacting with these entities, and often will try to find the least violent method of solution. Also, both series are episodic, yet it's a style that suits them well. The day-to-day solving of problems has a relaxing sort of mood in both series, and I think they complement each other nicely. 

report Recommended by MistressMorbid

Both deal with things that can only be seem by few people. Both have the main character helping someone in which only they could provide assistance. Each episode is about a different spirit/mushi.  

report Recommended by Grimmm

Spirits are all around us, but only some have the gift to see them. Both series are somewhat episodic, revolving around human interactions with spirits, as well as with each other. 

report Recommended by MapleRose

Both are calm, slice-of-life-ish series that deal with the supernatural (youkai/mushi) in one- or two-episode arcs and have protagonists who are quiet and standoffish as a result of their abilities to deal with the supernatural. 

report Recommended by lithiumflower

Although not similar in the aspect of Japanese Youkai, Mushishi still has good Japanese environments and the obvious feature of spirits that can only seen by certain people. Not many blatant parallels can be made between the two, though there's a high chance that anyone who likes Natsume Yuujin-Chou will like Mushishi. 

report Recommended by Denizen

If you liked Mushishi, you'll probably like Natsume Yuujinchou too. Each episode is a seperate story, and involves with spirits. The artwork of both of the series are soft colors and a pleasure to watch. Mushishi uses earthtones and Natsume Yuujinchou soft pastels though. 

report Recommended by johnisnothisdate

Both wonderfully soothing atmospheric slice-of-life series involving male protagonists with the uncommon ability to see spirits. In the course of these episodic stories, we learn that these spirits are neither good nor evil, that they simply exist - a message both shows seem to reinforce. Mushishi tends to be more dramatic, whereas Natsume Yuujinchou carries more of a comedic touch. 

report Recommended by -PixieDust-

You'll surely notice since first episode how much those two anime are very similar to eachother.
- Main character: a quiet, good and mature guy (Natsume and Ginko) which has to deal in his own way with spirits/mushi. They both care abouth the spirits and always tried to do everything to help them and not let people thinking that they are to be considered as "evil".
- Atmosphere: colors, art, music, design will let you fully love the litterally pureness of those anime. The atmosphere is very calm and "delicated".

Personally i think that both, Mushishi and Natsume Yuujinchou, are two masterpieces which you can't miss to watch, especially if you already enjoyed one of the two! read more 

report Recommended by EtnaEraclea

Both anime have a calming atmosphere and tells the story of someone with a special ability as they learn to live with the supernatural. 

report Recommended by Ruby_Moon

Except for the basic plot: odd things that only some people can see but still can affect many, the main characters are extemely siimilar. They are both easy-going, adorable guys that will try to do whats best depending on the situation rather than some idea that all unknown creatures are evil and needs to be exterminated. 

report Recommended by Dimmor

Both series are slow paced, and are focused on youkai, with standalone episodes. Natsume yuujinchou is lighter than Mushishi though. 

report Recommended by immelman51

Beautiful episodic tales surrounding the interaction between spirits and humans with a single mature and introspective male protagonist holding the thread between episodes.

Mushishi focuses more on japanesse folklore tales in a rural fudal setting and its more moral driven, whetheras Nastume Yuujinchou is more quaint and simple, following a school boy and his spirit relationships. 

report Recommended by NoMercy

Mushihi's drama is more than Natsume Yuujinchou even though both they relax u a lot :) Both anime's story about a guy who wanna help ghosts ( it's name change anime to anime like Yokai & Mushi ) and humans. So they are similar in many ways :) 

report Recommended by bolaykim

Both anime are episodic and supernatural. They have a relaxing atmosphere. Though the protagonists are different, they are both able to see things that normal people can't see, mushi/spirits. 

report Recommended by tplusent

Natsume yuujinchou's story have a similiarity to mushishi.. it all about japanesse mystery story.. 

report Recommended by kurosaki15

Slow pace anime with magic creatures and epic story  

report Recommended by mutsuriniii

Both stories follow the main character, who can see strange things. Both series have the same atmosphere, though Mishishi seems to be a more mature. Both stories are warm, affecting and a little bit bittersweet. 

report Recommended by kagamishinigami

Calm, episodic anime with supernatural aspects. 

report Recommended by TowardsTheStars

BOth anime somehow tackles the supernatural side (mushi and yokai) meeting new pwoplw along the way of their journey. Slow in pace but has lessons to give in ife. 

report Recommended by akira_kuruza

These dramas share a slow, easy pace that really allows them to develop a nice atmosphere. Watching these shows leaves me feeling peaceful and calm.

They are both episodic. Nastume Yuujinchou centers around the main character meeting and helping a different spirit each episode. Mushishi is similar, having the main character meet and help someone with a spirit related problem each episode. 

report Recommended by Shibs

The setting is famiiar - both main heroes can see otherwordly creatures, the atmosphere is quite the same too, although theese animes still leave different impressions. 

report Recommended by Sakuraika

Mushishi and Natsume Yuujinchou both have many similarities. The main characters of shows are the only people that can see spirits. The MC's want to help the people and spirits throughout the series. There isn't much of a plot in both the shows but each episode is very emotional and dramatic.  

report Recommended by Babyant44

Both series have an episodic nature and are slow-paced with their stories. The story of both series focuses on dealing with the problems of individual people. In Natsume Yuujinjou this is done through the Book of Friends while in Mushishi it is the mushi that inhabit people. Both series have a large deal of emotions involved and also a large amount of moral questions are raised. 

report Recommended by Samwais

Both stories are about life with another being.
Ayakashi in Natsume Yuujinchou are human like being, where Mushi are more like primitive beings.
Both stories are focusing in slice of life and drama. But Natsume Yuujinchou is more slice of life, where Mushishi is more drama.
Both are top tier class animes. 

report Recommended by Jim_Heart

Both series gives off a similar feeling in which the main protagonist is able to see supernatural beings where normal people cannot.

Although lacking a direct story line, both series has very interesting concepts and ideas that tells a different story each episode. The episodes themselves are lighthearted and has a relaxing feeling to them. The way these two series tell their stories in a surreal and unique presentation.

There are spirits involved in both series as we take a glimpse into how they behave around human beings and specifically the main protagonist. Although slow paced, the exploration of the many ideas are quite insightful to watch. read more 

report Recommended by Stark700

both are relaxing anime in which the main character empathizes with other characters who they meet and try to help them. main character in both anime can see things that not many other people can (mushi/youkai) 

report Recommended by MiyatouSeishirou

Got the same style as Natsume Yuujinchou, is a slice of life, adventure, but is quiet and relaxing and episodic , the anime style put you in calm mood and u always crave for more eps . 

report Recommended by AllenVonStein

As many other people point out, this is as close to Mushishi as you can get. Both deal with Youkai/Ayakashi and are (mostly) episodic in nature, meaning there isn't necessarily a set overall plot, but a series of situations/problems where the entire story of it is contained in one episode, which Mushishi absolutely nailed. Natsume is definitely more heart-warming and emotional than Mushishi, but both will leave your heart tingling. 

report Recommended by megucas

Both main characters can see things that normal people can't, spirits. Witch a calm and peaceful feel to it, both main characters encounter both good and bad spirits, and helping those in need. Both main characters are pretty quiet, and are the loner type. When they were children, the were thought of a freaks for seeing things no one else could see. After meeting different kinds of spirits their outlook about them and life changes. Both animes are episodic, with both good, sad, and bittersweet endings. 

report Recommended by BiiteYouToDeath

Both was able to features Japanese Folklore so well and interesting 

report Recommended by worldvision

Both have to do with spiritual creatures called "yokai". Both are very beautiful and imaginative anime. Highly recommend watching 

report Recommended by ColorfulAsian

Mushishi bears a certain spiritual kinship with Natsume Yuujinshou. I think of it as a more austere, reflective cousin but in truth, Mushishi can't really be compared to anything else. The main character deals with the supernatural, stories are told through an episodic format and lastly the serene and mystical atmosphere are some of the similarities between the two. The experience you get from these series don't come along very often, one of a kind. 

report Recommended by papsoshea

Both are series in which ghosts or spirits exist and only certain people can see them. They are both extremely relaxing to watch, the sort of thing you'd watch an episode of before you go to sleep to give yourself a nice dream. Although Mushishi occasionally has unhappy endings and has a more wistful and dreamy atmosphere compared to Natsume Yujinchou's "smiley sunny everyone's friends lets help each other out and be happy" kind of atmosphere in which comedy is occasionally added. In my opinion occasional unhappy endings are a good thing as it adds variety, and I guess it suits the feel of the anime so don't immediately cross Mushishi out. Most of the time each episode has it's own plot line, and one arc rarely continues for more than an episode's length. In this case that also adds to the relaxing effect because you don't have to follow an intricate story line. I personally find the most relaxing animes the ones where you don't have to think. Anyway, both animes are brilliant, personally I prefered Mushishi just because I like the strange lovecraft sort of atmospheres and the protagonist is pretty interesting, unlike your generic anime hero... read more 

report Recommended by Murdaj_Steve

main characters of these series are able to see spirits and go around solving problems. the two anime is also episodic which is smoothing and relaxing. japanese folklore 

report Recommended by fengfeng

The key fundamental similarity between both of these series is that they are both episodic, giving each individual episode it's own story arc which doesn't directly connect to other episodes much further than the recurring characters e.g. Ginko, Madara etc. They both center around the theme of the supernatural, both introducing fantasy creatures e.g. Mushi from Mushishi. Mushishi I would describe as more on the philosophical and harder watching side than Natsume Yuujinchou, which has a more of a Slice of Life feeling to it while still remaining thought provoking. They are both slow paced and minimalisitic animes with simple but beautiful animation (especially mushishi) but are probably best watched in moderation rather than 'marathoning' a series. Both Awesome and Original :) read more 

report Recommended by FlaminDango

If you like Mushishi then I'm sure you will like Natsume. Because in both animes the plot and aura is very similar. There is spiritual things and myths of the Japan folk. I enjoy and liked so much Mushishi and Natsume. There are so relaxing, with beautiful soundtrack, nice main chatacters and with a fantasy mythology that involved the plot. Very recommended! 

report Recommended by Shizuku-Kuroneko

Both peaceful anime
Similar anime
Both relaxing
 

report Recommended by Aerial_Assasain

Supernatural/ghosts; Protagonist is a special person who can see these supernatural things and helps others deal with them; both have a very chill and bittersweet feel and slice of life 

report Recommended by beany012

Similarities: both animes are largely episodic, both really only have a handful of main characters (although mushishi is mostly just Ginko), have a similar atmosphere about them and both main characters deal with helping people affected by spirits, or the spirits themselves.
Differences: Natsume is set in modern day Japan and he lives in the countryside, Mushishi is set in the past and Ginko is a nomad. Natsume also deals with a more personified version of spirits (youkai/ayakashi), whereas mushishi's spirits (mushi) don't really have any character to them. Natsume also has more of a goal he wants to achieve (book of friends), unlike Ginko. Both are equally very enjoyable, and highly recommended. read more 

report Recommended by shukagari

Mushishi and Natsume Yuuchinjou are very good and enjoyable series. The protagonists of both series, Ginko and Natsume, deal with spiritual species that interact with humans, which are known as Mushi (Mushishi) and Ayakashi/Youkai (Natsume Yuuchinjou). Both Ginko and Natsume also deal with loneliness, but still use the gifts/powers they have to help others. They are episodic as well. Both characters accept these spirits as parts of their lives. Ginko before the beginning of the story's setting, and Natsume throughout the show.
However, there are still some differences between the two. For almost every episode of Mushishi, Ginko is usually requested to help a character that has a "disease/illness". He tries to diagnose the problem, and the cause of the problem is always because of the Mushi, in whatever way possible. Ginko then gets rid of the Mushi, but will never kill them, unlike other mushishi. In Natsume Yuuchinjou, Natsume usually helps either a youkai or human with a problem they have, and with those problems, most of the time, he has to use his Yuuchinjou. Mushishi episodes almost always end in a depressing or non-happy way. In Natsume Yuuchinjou, the story of that episode always has a happy ending. Ginko and maybe just one or two other characters reappear throughout the show. In Natsume Yuuchinjou, there are plenty of characters that appear along the way, humans and youkai. There's more comedic scenes in Natsume Yuuchinjou than in Mushishi as well.
In conclusion, both are very well-done series, and are very emotional. Natsume Yuuchinjou is very similar to Mushishi, but is less depressing and deals with more characters. read more 

report Recommended by Jonathan_George

Both Mushishi and Natsume Yuujinchou have a laid back, relaxing athmosphere and an episodical way of telling the different stories that each has to offer. Both shows deal with lead characters that can see creatures that others can't and their interaction with them.
However, while Mushishi tends to be more dramatic, Natsume has a little more of a comedian touch to it. 

report Recommended by InesG

Supernatural creatures that both characters can see that others can not. Both series are soft and relaxing 

report Recommended by Anticlimatic

Both animes have a supernatural theme, yet are not packed with pure action and fights and such. They are slow-paced and look at things at a different perspective. Plus, the atmosphere in both is really calming and both are good animes to watch, if you want each episode a new story to be told. 

report Recommended by DiaWulf

Both these are really calming to watch it lifts your spirits. Natsume Yuujinchou has youkais while Mushishi has mushi both which impact their lives. They kind of have a soft warm lonely feeling to it. 

report Recommended by lucky24

Both are episodic spiritual adventures that give off the same vibe both having a bittersweet ending  

report Recommended by Arquarion

both are about mythical creatures and they are episodic animes following the life ofa young man and his relationship with these creatures also they are relaxing to watch 

report Recommended by yatogami2610

Hotarubi no Mori e brings some of the best things about Natsume Yuujinchou in one neat 40 minute package. It is pretty much a Natsume Yuujinchou episode, sans Natsume and Nyanko-Sensei, plus the benefit of extra 20 minutes and a higher budget. That makes for a incredibly well done story with one of the sweetest (and saddest) romances I've seen in anime.

This should be a must watch for Natsume fans. If you loved the movie but never watched Natsume... well, what on earth are you waiting for? 

report Recommended by CookieBun

Of course watching Hotarubi is like watching Natsume Yuujinchou.
Not only they are from the same manga-ka, therefor sharing the same gorgeous art and a similar story telling as well the taste for the same genre:
those are two titles who, if you liked one of them, you can't absolutly miss to wach the another as well!
Both are sweet, delicate stories, with splendid colors and wonderful characters who'll bring you into those supernatural and fascinating worlds.
Both give you the same calm feeling while watching them.

Indeed, very highly recommended both ♥ 

report Recommended by EtnaEraclea

Not only do Natsume Yuujinchou and Hotarubi no Mori e have the same original creator and similar setting, they are animated by the same studio, with the same director and even the composer is the same. Without any doubt there is more than one that these two would both be liked by the same people.

The girl, Hotaru, in Hotarubi no More e and the boy, Takashi (mostly referred to by his family name Natsume), both see demon and spirits and they both befriend them. Both the film and the series play with a melancholic feeling and the relationship between humans and spirits. 

report Recommended by annybori

Hotarubi no Mori e is like the 2 episode version of Natsume Yuujinhou. Even the main characters Natsume and Jin are similiar. Also, musics, the athmosphere and animation styles are alike. I loved Hotarui no Mori e more than Natsume because there was a romantic story in it. I wish it could become longer. 

report Recommended by nekopaw

Not only do they share the same creator, their art style, the music, the setting and themes are similar as well. They are both touching and will probably leave you with tears. 

report Recommended by OS_Christina706

Both are about Youkai. Both have that bittersweet feeling to it.
Hotarubi is about love while Natsume is about friendship with Youkai. If you enjoyed one of them, you will enjoy the other. 

report Recommended by Sky-Guitar

Both anime are written by the same author, Yuki Midorikawa hence contains similar themes, mood, and settings.

Both series has a mystical feeling which is smooth, slow paced, serene, and natural. The music in both series are also collected and calm. Both series also involves a main protagonist dealing with supernatural beings, specifically spirits.

These two anime are both relaxing to watch that are considered rare gems. 

report Recommended by Stark700

Gin gives an extremely similar feeling to Natsume. They are both extremely soothing and relaxing to watch, although one offers a more dramatic experience. 

report Recommended by AZNXREVEAL

Same voice actor for main male lead and similar plot about ghost spirits wandering around. The main story of Hotarubi is limited by the fact that it's movie, and so it doesn't have as much touching stories as Natusme, yet it is still very moving. Both emphasizes the importance of relationships, especially that of a close friend. 

report Recommended by Stellio

Hoturabi no Mori e is almost exactly like an episode of Natsume Yuujinchou without natsume in it. About a Girl who meets a youkai it is also extremely touching. 

report Recommended by omegashadows

Similar Artwork, similar soundtrack, similar storyline. Both stories are about interaction between yōkai (supernatural monsters) and humans. Protagonists in both stories are complex and evolve in beautiful ways.  

report Recommended by AngelShiva

They're both really calm and lovely shows. Hotarubi no Mori e is a movie, while Natsume Yuujinchou has four seasons. They both follow a human who sees spirits and occasionally hangs out with them. 

report Recommended by aifukola

A dip in the simplicity and tranquility in a rural landscape

through appearances in folklore,

the charm, the beauty and magic of the forest and,

the "poetry" of a wonderful Yuki Midorikawa. 

report Recommended by disincanto

Both shows a story about a world were the yokai (ghost, monsters etc...) exist and live without the humans realize. I like Hotarubi no Mori e because its diferent from the typical romance, and i love yatsume first season because was different from the typical shounens. 

report Recommended by Iprek

It's like Natsume Yuujinchou, but shorter and with some romance mixed in. Even if you don't like romance, watch it! 

report Recommended by cookieslayer

They both share the same director, and both share the same setting of the story - a real world, but with spirits living together with humans.
Beautiful and touching stories, amazing animation and art, you will enjoy every minute of it.  

report Recommended by WingLiveS

Produced by the same studio, so if you enjoy the style of Natsume Yuujinchou then you'll love Hotarubi no Mori e.

Both explore the relationship between people and spirituality, with Hotarubi no Mori e focusing more on romance. Can't recommend these works enough, 10/10 for both. 

report Recommended by helencs

The movie seems like a Natsume Yuujinchou movie with different characters and romance (the two anime have the same producer and sound director). To sum it up, the setting is the same: there are youkai and the story mostly takes place in a forest, both anime are calming and lovely. If you liked the latter aspects, you may most likely enjoy Natsume Yuujinchou a lot.  

report Recommended by frutpnshsamr

Both are about ayakashi and yokai, share a bit of story and they both have a Zashiki-Warashi in it. xxxHolic is pretty dark, while Natsume Yuujinchou is lighter and uses more colours.  

report Recommended by DragonsWhip

The character of Watanuki (xxxHolic) is very similar to Natsume (Natsume Yuujinchou). Even though the stories of the two series are different except for the boy-who-can-see-spirits thing, the "feel" is the same. Also, Nyan-ko sensei is kinda like a cross between kuro-Mokona and the Kudakitsune. 

report Recommended by Vampiress_D

Both series start out very similarly, both of the main characters are being chased by spirits which only they can see. Both are fairly episodic though xxxHOLiC definitely links more episodes together. 

report Recommended by Chicken008

Both main characters are the only one's in the story that can see spirits. They also share the same sense of loneliness that comes with it. There's a few episodes in both Natsume Yuujinchou & xxxHolic that go into true detail about their feelings of being alone. It's drama unlike i've ever seen before, and i love that part about each of these shows, so much. If you've seen one of these shows, then i highly recommend you check out the other. 

report Recommended by Shiroth

Both protagonist can see things others can't and have a best friend who accepts them for that, even though he can't see spirits himself. The protagonist's guardians and loving yet harsh on them, teasing them a lot. I am sure that if you love one you will love the other. Both series' offer a lot of knowledge into Japanese folklore and provide characters you will fall in love with. 

report Recommended by kvhottie

In both anime there's a boy who can see yõkai and want's to get rid of the ability. Involves also a lot of adventures in/with/about the spirit world. 

report Recommended by sabrina19

Both series are about an introvert boy trying to deal with seeing spirits. 

report Recommended by johnisnothisdate

Well, as already many ppl said:
both series have main character really similar: Watanuki Kimihiro & Natsume Takashi. They are good guys, with a special ability: they are able to see spirits/ghosts/demons.. They also share the 'loneliness' side, b'cuz of their capacity they are usual to be alone.. Maybe watanuki's personality is a bit more 'funny-comic' than that natsume, but anyway they are both real good ppl with a "golden heart" that help others.
About the story, well both stories are really similar b'cuz of the *oriental japanese tradition* in them, about the traditions to believe in something like typical japanese spirits and about all the atmosphere!
The way how both stories are showed, is simply awesome: delicated, sweet and loveable.
About Natsume, the anime it is really full of amazing colors, and also graphic design is exelent^^
Well, from Holic's side, it's an anime from CLAMP so char design is obviously great.
What else i have to say? they are both awesome. Holic is more known than Natsume, so i suggest you: don't lose that gem that NY is! believe me, watch it ;3 they both worth it!^^ read more 

report Recommended by EtnaEraclea

Lots of similarities. For one both MCs can see supernatural stuff that keeps hunting them down. Both MCs try to solve supernatural problems and have someone to guide them and both series are episodic.

Main difference is that xXxHolic takes a slightly darker approach and tries to bring some horror factor from time to time. 

report Recommended by kitten320

Both of these shows feature a leading male character who can see demons/spirits. They both hope to get rid of their ability, but start to realize how useful it is once they start using it. They also start to figure out who they can trust with their secret. Overall, the plot is fairly similar. 

report Recommended by TearxUlquiorra

Both main character can see spirits, even though both animes are quite different, they both are wonderful o^.^o 

report Recommended by Strawberry_Chan

The protagonist both meet a lot of humans/supernatural beings that would make them realize a lot of lessons in life. They have problems that are quite similar but not all is bad in their new found lifestlyle. 

report Recommended by akira_kuruza

In both series, the main protagonist is able to see spirits and demons, beings that only very few people can see.

Both series presents stories in an unique way each episode that follows the main protagonist's lives and the situations as he deals with his gift/curse. It is quite well written because the way it presents them with a sort of mystical and serene feeling.

Both series features a lot of interactions between various characters that can be dramatic, comedic, and sometimes emotional.

Both series are episodic that has a slow pacing which also follows a slice of life feeling. Nonetheless, many themes are explored in both series with the guidance of a senior as they learn more about the world, how to handle their supernatural abilities, and helping others while learning more about themselves. read more 

report Recommended by Stark700

- Both animes have very distinct accult themes.
- Both protagonists have an unusually strong spiritual sense for a human and often times find themselves in perilous situations involving various non-human entities as a result.
- despite the above neither is very adept at handling these situations.
- Both have a somewhat tragic male protagonist.
- Both protagonist seem to be orphans.

However Both Natsume and watanuki have very different personalities.
Both XXXHolic and Natsume Yuujinchou tend to have very different atmospheres.
Natsume Yuujinchou has a more light hearted bittersweet atmosphere and tends to have much milder content than XXXHolic. XXXHolic may come off to some as having a more modern gothic vibe. And can also be very philosophical at times. read more 

report Recommended by onyx_xylo

[Similarities]
Drama, comedy, and supernatural.
Episodic anime about the unseen paranormal creatures- Ayakashi and Youkai.
The main character, Natsume Takashi/Watanuki Kimihiro, is an orphaned teenager who possesses spiritual abilities and is able to see spirits.
He has a best friend, Tanuma Kaname/Doumeki Shizuka, who lives in a shrine and has an ability to sense spirits, but his abilities are inferior to the MC.

[Differences]
Natsume Yuujinchou leaves a warm fuzzy feeling. It has a lighthearted atmosphere.
xxxHolic is macabre, creepy and dark. It includes profound and psychological dialogues. 

report Recommended by shiion_

about japanese folklore, ayakashi and youkai, art, and a lot of other things 

report Recommended by whatcarlos

Episode s are not connected
they both have characters that can see spirits and stuff... 

report Recommended by ulquiorra_94

These shows focus on a young man who can see spirits. They each use this curse/gift to help others, and through this, they find what they lacked. Each show is episodic with the overall arc being the development of the main character.  

report Recommended by DreamInSong

If you liked this anime you will definitely like Spirited Away, the main character in both animes can see spirits and they have to deal with them through it. 

report Recommended by HinataChan

Both deal with the interactions between an ordinary human protagonist and the supernatural creatures they encounter. Both have similar meticulous pacing, themes of friendship, character growth, and are pretty much guaranteed to warm your heart at least a little. 

report Recommended by lithiumflower

Both are about Youkai. Well, Spirited Away is a wonderfull movie, completely must to see for everyone. The ones who enjoyed Natsume's story will love Chihiro. 

report Recommended by Kalafior

Natsume Yuujinchou...
Natsume Yuujinchou revolves around a phycic teenage boy named Takashi Natsume, who is hounded by spirits on a regular basis.
Recently, Takashi's grandmother Reiko passed away, leaving him the mysterious 'Natsume book of friends'.

Reiko, in her youth, was quite a myschevious girl, who would challange spirits in the codition that if she won, she would seal their name in her notebook, rendering them a servant to her.

Upon inheriting this book, Natsume is faced with more spirits, those wanting thier names returned, and those out to steal the book in order to gain servants.



Spirited Away...
/> Spirited away revolves around a young girl named Chihiro, who, with her parent, walk into what they belive is an abandoned themepark. This is a trap.

After her parents are turned into pigs, the residents of this loccation finally appear, only to be revealed a series of bizzare spirits.
Chihiro is rescued by a mysterious young boy who knows nothing about his past, he advise's to keep her head down in order not to gain attention.

We soon discover that a which is dictating this spirit wold and stealing the name and identity of others, who have no choice but to serve her.



Natsume YuuJinchou has quite the oppsosite storyline to Spirited away, yet inspite of this, their are great similarities...

Spirited Away - A sweet little girl gets stranded in the spirit world, being the only human
Natsume Yuujinchou - A pleasant teenage orphaned boy, see spirits in his everyday life

Spirited Away - Thoses in the spirit world have their names taken from them, i.e. losing their identity and freedom
Natsume Yuujinchou - Many spirits have had their names stolen from them and sealed in the book of friends, i.e. losing their freedom

Both stories feature sweet, lovable main characters, who have a shapeshifting spirt acting as bodygaurd. read more 

report Recommended by Queen_Stars

both are about spirits, but Spirited away has more action, and Natsume Yuujinchou is more relaxing, :) 

report Recommended by mayeesison

both are full of loving characters you will never forget. while spirited away is more fast paced natsume yuujin is more slow and calm. Both are full of supernatural creatures and the determination of a child/teen to do what they think is right. fully fleshed out characters that are brought to life on the screen right before your eyes. if you liked spirited away you will love natsume yuujin because both are unforgettable in their own right.  

report Recommended by shadowontherun

Both have a human become involved in a spirit community. 

report Recommended by Hstar

Both are supernatural tales regarding interesting ghosts and their stories. Ghosts in both anime aren't the horrific killer ghosts, but just spirits that just want to live peacefully. 

report Recommended by doublegambler

If you love spirited away, I would really recommend watching this!
Similar air/vibe about these two and the idea of spirits or youkai is present in both.
Both really beautiful. 

report Recommended by trana

light , pleasant anime about Yokai and an ordinary man who decides to help them return to the underworld 

report Recommended by YoshiixD

What they have in common: Yokai, beautiful art, bishounen

I found Natsume Yuujinchou to be a much more relaxed version of Mononokean, but the plot and pacing is still excellent 

report Recommended by hanabinouta

With different way of seeing youkais besides monsters the main characters, that have the ability to see youkais, are in exciting stories that are full of comedy and touching scenes.
 

report Recommended by LaniS5

More or less episodic shows about beautiful boys interacting with youkai/spirits/mononoke to the sound of refreshing music tinged with a little tradition.

Yuujinshou is more subdued with a more faded colour palette, whereas Mononokean is stronger coloured and louder voiced. Both have a colourful cast of yokai and just enough supernatural action to keep the show moving at a nice relaxed pace. 

report Recommended by Lemon

Both protagonist can see, and interact with Youkais, both series revolves around helping youkai's in one way or another. (based on first episode) 

report Recommended by Satyricon-hu

Both anime are about boys who can see yokai and are casually interacting with them.
Natsume Yuujinchou has a calmer pace compared to Fukigen na Mononokean but both are entertaining to watch.  

report Recommended by Asimi_Drachen

Both are, cut down to their basics, the Main character(s) helping certain Youkai in a semi-episodic format, meaning that some stories only take one episodes while others take multiple episodes to get resolved. Both also have a similar atmosphere and make (almost) everybody, including the Youkai, seem likable.
In both anime, the MC(s) are also accompanied by an adorable Youkai that decided to stick with them on their own. 

report Recommended by dunkan85

Both shows deal with youkai (spirits). Both main characters sees youkai, and others don't see, both anime relaxing. Natsume yuujinchou is more heartful and Fukigen na Mononokean is more comedy. 

report Recommended by Rose007

Both are slice-of-life series more concerned with building bonds and interactions between characters (with ocassional endearingly quirky humour) than any kind of overarching plot. Natsume Yuujinchou has the distinction of incorporating strong supernatural themes, but if that was excluded they'd be remarkably similar series! Even with that, they have a lot of thematic and stylistic similarities, generally giving off the same pleasant, heart-warming vibe. 

report Recommended by lithiumflower

Similar relaxing feeling overall (although KtB is not supernatural). Slow gentle pace in a plot that revolves around friendship and bonds. Its about the daily life and the important things in life, it gives you some good lessons. And both have cats who are usually near the protagonists.  

report Recommended by Akarioru

Since there are no youkai (monsters) in Kimi to Boku, both anime still have the similar relaxed and calm vibe. The protagonists are all likable and there is no doubt that either anime is quite well made. Although portrayed differently, and yet comparable, friendship, one of the two will definitely fall in taste if you've already seen either Kimi to Boku or Natsume Yuujinchou. 

report Recommended by Chitai

A strong emphasis on friends and friendship. The pacing of the story is similar, episodic rather than overarching. 

report Recommended by evelynie

I think it's similar because of the relaxing vibe both of the anime's present. Along with character design. Kimi to Boku is practically just the life part of Natsume Yuujinchou, none of the super-natural. 

report Recommended by Boxhappy

While Natsume Yuujinchou has supernatural elements, both series are slice of life. They both have soft colours, mellow music and give off a very relaxing feel. They are both anime that is more calming than exciting to watch (but still very enjoyable all the same). There are also heartwarming moments and strong friendships between the characters.
Cats are also featured in both. 

report Recommended by tearbender

friendly main characters who happen to be teenagers...have some sort of super natural power and uses it to help supernatural beings...somewhat similiar feel in the graphics but set in different periods  

report Recommended by sabgian

They both involve a person who can see things that others can't see. They both try to solve problems with the best of their abilities. They both have non-human sidekicks. 

report Recommended by spineslayer

Both deal with the complicated realtionships bewtween humans and spirits. Both also have humor. 

report Recommended by eklie

an episodic story that centers on a guy with an ability to see youkai. Tactics is like a darker and creepier version of Natsume. 

report Recommended by SuperSamos

Both about generally kind-hearted youths who get along better with spirits/monsters than with people and have strong protectors who are also friends. 

report Recommended by indi135

Both have the same slow pace, and the protagonists can see those kind of "ghosts" or fantastic creatures. 

report Recommended by Leticia

Stories where humans and the supernatural mingle together.

Kamichu is a very lighthearted look of this delicate and strange relationship, somewhat reminiscing My Neighbor Totoro by Studio Ghibli.
Natsume Yuujinchou takes a deeper and a quite more painful look into this relationship, introducing us to a string of beautiful stories between humans and youkai that are touching and often times sad.

Both are set in the summer, a time of the year that fits both series perfectly. 

report Recommended by CookieBun

A slice of life where there is interaction with shintoist figures. Kamichu has more gods than anything while Natsume Yuujinchou has youkai.  

report Recommended by ladyxzeus

It has the same heartwarming and yet melancholy tone. The main characters can both see gods and supernatural beings and possess of supernatural powers, without being flashy about them. Friendship, getting along, solving problems and helping both people and creatures seem to be an important theme in both.
The Japanese gods and creatures are also the same.
Other recs I can think of are Spirited Away and XXXHolic 

report Recommended by Jinger

They are both centred around spirits and follow the adventures of a person who can see these spirits. Kamichu is about a young, extremely cute (I never really say that but she really was) girl who suddenly becomes a Goddess and Natsume Yuujinchou is about a guy who helps spirits with their problems and desires, aswell as returning the names of those that his grandmother had written down.
They may not have very similar stories, the only think that connects them in this regard are the spirits. However both are extremely mellow and calming to watch.
You can simply sit back, watch and just enjoy with a smile on your face. read more 

report Recommended by Zorogou

Both series deal with seeing/helping spirits.. Natsume Yuujinchou is a bit more serious while Hanada Shounen-shi focuses more on comedy. 

report Recommended by Tempz

These series are just two of a kind, dealing with the ghosts, life-after death and family themes. Hanada Shonen-shi is more visually explicit, more complex, more parodic and globally aimed towards a more mature audience despite the age of its main character, while Natsume is more of a conventional slice-of-life/comedy with traditional but great characters. Both are equally good, but Hanada Shonen-shi deserves to be known better. If you liked Natsume, you definitely have to check out Hanada. 

report Recommended by Jacut

same theme, same feeling, many ghost experiences. 

report Recommended by saegeek

Hanada Shounen-shi and Natsume Yuujinchou both tell very touching stories about the relationships of humans and spirits. 

report Recommended by pizzadood

The similarity between Hanada Shounen Shi and Natsune Yuujinchou is both of the main character can see something that ordinary people cannot see. Well of course, its not entirely the same of both whole series. Hanada Shounen shi's main character deal with the dead people's unfinished business and Natsume Yuujinchou's main protagonist deals with spirit by giving back their name. Natsume Yuujinchou is more to relaxing and fun anime series. Whereas for Hanada Shounen Shi, is more to comedy and also can trigger one person's emotional. =)  

report Recommended by yenlingtiew

Both anime deals with exterminating ayakashi. In both anime protagonist have an demon follower (Nyanko - Natsume Yuujinchou / Mokkun - Shounen Onmyouji) both are very similar to each other.

The main difference is that Shounen Onmyouji occours in the past and Natsume Yuujinchou nowadays and the fact that there isnt any romance in Natsume Yuujinchou which is very important in Shounen Onmyouji.

Basically the same story in different time period.  

report Recommended by Dilvish

Both Animes have main character who can see spirits. Each main character have unnatural body guard who is feared and respected in Spiritual world.
Both Animes are rather episodic, but overly enjoyable and always a recommendation for watchers.
In other words: If you loved Natsume, you'll love Shounen Onmyouji and vice-versa. 

report Recommended by ainthemix

Both protagonists are teenaged boys with the ability to see supernatural beings. Both have powerful partners with 'cute' forms. And both are famous because of their grandparents. 

report Recommended by chiitan

About a boy and the spirits that protect him. Also, about finding a place between the worlds. 

report Recommended by indi135

Calm and relaxing anime just in time for summer. Both anime have very similar atmosphere and both have elements of fantasy, supernatural and slice of life. 

report Recommended by Shifu

First instalments of many following seasons, so this is a rec for both franchises as a whole. Natsume and Aria are both the best that the slice of life genre has to offer, each with their own uniquely peaceful atmosphere and with supernatural story elements. Later episodes of Natsume Yuujinchou have a few instances of action and drama, but overall it is absent in both. Both series are episodic, and the relaxing feel in each series is heightened by their gentle music, with many memorable pieces of BGM. Both also have a cute cat mascot: Nyanko-sensei and President Aria. 

report Recommended by memorial_address

- Both have cat as trademark and as master too.
- Have wonderful soundtrack
- Telling you about daily life, though both have different plot.

but both series are definitely enjoyable.... 

report Recommended by ryshin

Simple stories told with indolence. 

report Recommended by Crave4cake

Both anime series are about life, but from a little bit different angle. Honey and Clover is basically about life, love and friendship while Natsume Yuujinchou has supernatural features in it. No matter how you look on the series, they both are worth watching. Even the major messages are alike plus the anime series are beautifully done. 

report Recommended by manatasia

They have similar gentle, clear art styles and lead characters; Natsume and Takemoto are even voiced by the same seiyuu. They have energy and comedic elements, but are wise and introspective. 

report Recommended by hoonoki

These dramas share a slow, easy pace that really allows them to develop a nice atmosphere. Watching these shows leaves me feeling peaceful and calm.

Honey and Clover focuses on one group of main characters while Natsume Yuujinchou focuses on a main character and various spirits that he encounters.

Natsume Yuujinchou is episodic while Honey and Clover has many small arcs.

The art styles are similar. 

report Recommended by Shibs

While Honey and Clover features a heavier focus on romance and everyday life than Natsume Yuujinchou's supernatural aspects, both series possess a gentle, melancholic feeling and emotional plots. 

report Recommended by Leona_Rose412

Definitely different in genres, Natsume Yuujinchou is supernatural themed while Kimi ni Todoke is a pure romantic shoujo, but somehow i can tell that they are very similar indeed.
- Graphicly talking: they both do share very clear and quiet colors, amazing character design and pretty good music themes which all of them make lead the serie to this very calm and relaxing atmosphere, pretty enjoyable.
- About the story: the main characters from both series (Natsume and Sawako) are, at first, without friends due to been judged weird and lonely. But, thanks to their good personality they finally come to know new people and make real nice friends which will help them in many occasions.

I strongly believe that whoever liked one of those serie will love the other as well. read more 

report Recommended by EtnaEraclea

Both series have a very similar vibe, they give off a peaceful, relaxed feeling. =) And now that I think about it, both shows follow a reserved, misunderstood protagonist through the seasons as they begin to open up to new friends and form lasting relationships. 

report Recommended by TehManyard

First differences. Sawako from KimiTo is rumored to be able to see ghost or to be heavily involved in the supernatural. Natsume from NatsumeYuujinchou can actually see ghosts and the supernatural. Sawako has more trouble hiding her emotions, she cries a lot more when she is happy or when she is sad. Natsume is better at hiding when he feels hurt because he grew up being called a liar. KimiTo is a romance. Natsume is supernatual and a slice of life.
Similarities: Both stoires leave you with this wonderfully sweet feeling. both characters feel isolated from the people around them. Both want to be close to others. Both are hurt by bullying but are not broken or twisted because of it. Both are quietly strong. Both care a lot about other ppl (or in natsume's case yoki). Both have familys that care about them (natsume are not bilolgical though) and are important to the characters, but the characters they don't confide in them. and finally i love the sweet relaxed feeling of both of them. read more 

report Recommended by BreathOfFire3

Kimi ni Todoke and Natsume Yuujinchou have the same gooey feeling when you're watching. Although Kimi ni Todoke is romance and Natsume Yuujinchou is slice of life, they leave with the same floaty feeling. Kimi ni Todoke's heart warming story about innocent and pure love between two high schoolers is on par with Natsume Yuujinchou beautiful stories centering around the hardship of our main character and the spirits he meets. Both main characters in the shows have similar characteristics. Natsume and Sawako are shy and awkward at times. They both yearn to have a colorful school life with friends, yet don't have the courage to approach people most the time. This characteristic is one many people can relate to which makes both stories all the more beautiful. I highly recommend both shows to anyone looking for a light hearted, comedic, and heart rendering watch. read more 

report Recommended by ummi-chan

Both series are focused on a protagonist who serves as a bridge between the youkai and human worlds and works to keep harmful youkai from disturbing the human world while receiving support from amicable youkai and spiritually gifted humans. NuraMago is more action oriented, but both are centred on themes of friendship, interdependence, and the supernatural all the same. 

report Recommended by lithiumflower

Both shows deal with youkai (spirits) and a lot of them. In Natsume there's a contract with spirits which was inherited by his grandmother and in Nurarihyon no Mago the main character is the heir of a youkai family. 

report Recommended by Lylaaz

They both evolve around Yokai. Their protagonist's, at first, dont want to accept that they live a life around them and try to shun the role that they are destined to follow. However, in time, they are unsure whether they hate yokai or not. 

report Recommended by AkiNoKenshi

Bot deal with youkai/ayakashi, a young boy who can transform into a youkai and lead his ayakashi-army. These animes are not visually similar but the story is.
This is like Natsume Yuujinchou but with more action.
Enjoy! 

report Recommended by Sankyyu

Both has a male main character who finds a spiritual creature (in wagaya a fox and in Natsume a cat) that end up protecting them.. they also share that both creature know a person related to the male main character, who is also had a spiritual power..
So they are pretty much the same..  

report Recommended by yumiche

The main characters in both Anime inherit something from their grandmother. Thus their slice-of-life ends up adding a supernatural element to the whole matter. 

report Recommended by Yemi_Hikari

I'll mostly be reiterating what has already been said: They both deal with a young man/boy who has a haughty guardian and they both must contend with youkai who pursue the main character(s). They both also have episodes that deal with helping youkai and Shinto gods in solving problems. Somehow, I just get a somewhat similar feeling when watching Natsume as when I watched Oinari. On the other hand, as others have said, Wagaya is more light-hearted and less melancholy/nostalgic than Natsume. It's been a year and a half since I watched Oinari so I may be remembering certain details incorrectly. Anyway, if you've watched one of these, there's a chance you may like the other. read more 

report Recommended by Solaphar

In both series, there's that mystical feeling. Along with that, the main male protagonist meets an entity who is not so normal and displays supernatural powers.

There is of course the case of supernatural themes involved in both series dealing with various strange incidents and the creatures involved.

Both series also features somewhat of an episodic sequence that often incorporates what the main characters face in their every day lives. 

report Recommended by Stark700

Spice and Wolf and Natsume Yuujinchou are rather episodic anime that focus on the development of the two main character's relationships. While the relationship between Natsume and Nyanko is not romantic it is similiar the the relationship between Horo and Lawerance in that it is between two beings who would ordinarily not get along, Natsume a human and Nyanko a youkai, Lawerance a human and Horo a wolf diety. 

report Recommended by Quanta

The main characters in both encounter a supernatural being which they become very close with. Both stories are easygoing and relatively peaceful to watch. Each show beautifully incorporates music at the right times to set the mood of the story. 

report Recommended by UfGator11

Protagonist meets the reincarnation of a supernatural being and soon learns more about his own surroundings. 

report Recommended by arsonal

Ushio to Tora is the action-shounen version of Natsume Yuujinchou (a.k.a Natsume's Book of Friends is a slow pace but fulfilling slice of life). The protagonist share an indistinguishable path which starts with meeting a legendary youkai who is bound to an important item that soon ends up in the hands of the protagonists. From the get go the youkai wants to kill the protagonist but a certain promise is made to put the tension aside until the protagonist complete their goal. As the story progresses, a bond of friendship and trust starts to shape and form. A lot of feel good and bittersweet moments with their interactions with other characters they meet down the line. read more 

report Recommended by papsoshea

The exact same story. The protagonist deal with Yokai and help people.
A boy find/inherit a spear/notebook.
He releases a Yokai(Tora/Madara) who want to eat him, but then the Yokai find himself protecting him instead. And become best pals.
 

report Recommended by Napok

Both are talking about yokai.
Just like in Natsume Yuunjinchou, the protagonist has a protector with almost the same behavior(Madara and Tora).
The main character is making friends as long as the story goes. 

report Recommended by Loakx5

Both dealing w/ spirits and same genre. Kamisama Hajimemashita has more of a plot and more romance/humour. 

report Recommended by angiepegasus

The art quite similar (i prefer kamisama's but natsume yuujinchou also has very nice art) and they both feature humans who have become entangled with the demon/spirit world. natsume yuujinchou is about a guy that has this magical book and has the ability to see spirits. The general feel of the animes are similar as well. They're both favorites of mine, so I definitely recommend it. 

report Recommended by timectrl

Natsume Yuujinchou and Kamisama Hajimemashita are similar because two protagonists are surrounded of mystic spirits. Also two animes have the feeling of the Japanese folk Culture. Although Natsume Yuujinchou don't have romance. Both series are calm and nice. Very recommended. 

report Recommended by Shizuku-Kuroneko

They are quite different, but after all give the same feeling. Both are beautifu, heart-warming stories about people (and spirits) who doesn't belong among the others. 

report Recommended by CinnamonHime

Both are very episodic and calming in nature, though Natsume focuses more on the spirits and supernatural elements. The caring main character meets many strange characters and attempts to solve their problems and open their hearts. Touching and heartwarming moments galore.  

report Recommended by interconnected-

Similar Themes

Supernatural

Fruits basket has a female lead and 3 "animals" in the house.

NY has a male lead with a cat. 

report Recommended by starsonia913

both revolve around a boy/girl who can see spirits 

report Recommended by Mr-NoUrE

both feature a young protagonist with a yokai/spirit sensei. 

report Recommended by W3ED

Gingitsune shares has a few themes in common with Natsume. Both anime leave me with the happy/sad feelings that I have grown to love from Natsume.  

report Recommended by trekeyus

The two shows are not directly similar at all. But they're both very peaceful and soothing. They're also the type that appeals to the 'child' inside you  

report Recommended by koreye

they both have their calm atmospheric look...their art is little bit alike..both the main characters have supernatural powers...one can see spirits and one can talk to animals... 

report Recommended by rel-mayer

I'm not really sure how to explain it but this anime for some reason reminded me a lot of Natsume Yuujinchou. They both tell a story in a different way to most animes and it's a nice change.

The stories themselves are not similar but both animes have the same feeling I guess. I might be alone in this recommendation but I think if you enjoyed Kemono no Souja Erin you'll probably enjoy Natsume Yuujinchou.  

report Recommended by PufflyJigg

Very similar relaxing slice of life shows including episodic structure, nice comedy, great music and beautiful stories, they both give you the same warm feeling. 

report Recommended by roquefort

both have relaxing storylines, with relaxing beckground musics 

report Recommended by sashiko

with a slow tempo and grace, they tell a story that is a bit sad and sweet, and they both leave you with a sense of lightness and ache. context is not similar, but if you appreciate the stories in aria you will likely appreciate natsume's as well as they both find happiness in their situation. 

report Recommended by Paraph

- Both have mystical creatures. (Youkai and Phantom)
- Both have characters that will exterminate the mystical creatures. (Gods and Exorcists)
- Both of the main characters have the same seiyuu. (Hiroshi Kamiya for Yato and Natsume)
- Both have an interesting story. (In my opinion) 

report Recommended by Chuunihan

The importance of friendship and family as well as the meaning of "humanity" are the messages of these shows. Noragami is an action packed show. In Natsume's Book of Friends, however, is more calm and relaxed.  

report Recommended by AIDSKrillex

Both main characters are the only one's in the story that can see spirits. They also share the same sense of loneliness that comes with it. There's a few episodes in both Natsume Yuujinchou & xxxHolic that go into true detail about their feelings of being alone. It's drama unlike i've ever seen before, and i love that part about each of these shows, so much. If you've seen one of these shows, then i highly recommend you check out the other. 

report Recommended by Shiroth

Both anime talking about high school student can see ghosts 

report Recommended by lady-leen

The main characters can see spirits and other strange creatures ^^ And they try to get rid of them or help them. 

report Recommended by ryoka

both deal with youkai in a slice-of-life genre 

report Recommended by bolei_cha

Though the stories are different, both give off a similar vibe and atmosphere. Both also begin with a protagonist who doesn't interact with others often. As the story progresses, both protagonists slowly begin to make friends and find their place in the world. The art in both is lovely and gives off a "warm" feeling. Both contain different types of traditional Japanese culture. 

report Recommended by laceknight

Talking about all four of the natsume seasons as a whole. Very very similar feelings, in a good way, in which almost every episode is the beginning of a new issue, with some issues extending on to later episodes and so on. Natsume in contrast focuses more on friendship than hyouka, and includes romance, but not directed toward the main character. Both main male characters undergo significant maturation and mental changes, and both anime leave you with an oddly satisfied and happy feeling after each issue is concluded. 

report Recommended by ririchiyomika

Both stories have a something supernatural coming. The main character in the stories are kind and sweet and are good looking. Something happens which changes their lives.  

report Recommended by Sky-Guitar

Let's pretend you are like me... You're sipping on some diet ginger ale doing shots of Wild Turkey and Old Grandad... You are reminiscing about that person in your life... "the one that got away".. And like Natsume Yuchinchou you can see ghosts... Now let's pretend that you see the ghost of that a**hole that stole the girl you really liked away.....

you know life may suck at the moment, but that girl you liked... ... Well her husband might become a ghost... And you might have a shot with her... And maybe you won't have to be drinking by yourself late at night....

Sorry... At this point let me the wild turkey drinking fool interject for one second... "God I love anime..." There is always a perfect anime for whatever you are feeling...

Well from me to you let me recommend Natsuki Rendezvous. I can barely type and I'm also pretty F*@#cked up... read more 

report Recommended by Brethawat

Both are slow paced slice of life anime.
Both focus on building relationships, be it friends or something more.
Both have a male protagonist who is doing something to get somewhere.
Same vibe: )

You'll like them both! 

report Recommended by anika12332

Well.. both animes are more or less "slice of lives" types of animes. But the main point in this recommendation is the main characters. Natsume & Hachiken are both lonely, stepped on the new field, hard workers, loyal to their friends and aware to always help. In the end they both of them going to be surrounded by friends. 

report Recommended by MiZutoGan

-Both have a soft atmosphere that makes you feel warm and fuzzy on the inside
-Both are slice of life, Natsume is just supernatural
-Both are about friendship, bonds, and enjoying the life you have right now. 

report Recommended by animedork95

its fluffy and light. Same feels as natsume yuujinchou and all those warm slice of life moments. Both also have a serious and dramatic side. Try it!  

report Recommended by lockii844

The protagonist in these both find a book that was used to seal demons. The monsters are based on Japanese ghost stories.

In Natsume Yuujinchou, the main plot was to release captured demons. In Ghost Stories the protagonist accidentally releases all the demons sealed in the book, and needs to find and reseal all of them instead. Both the mascot characters that help the protagonist is a demon in the shape of a cat. 

report Recommended by psycholoner

Extremely similar stories~ almost annoyingly similar. Both protagonists have inherited a book containing the names of the youkai their grandmother/mother fought, with the slight difference that in Natsume Yuujinchou, the boy wants to release those youkai, whereas in Ghost Stories, the girl releases them by mistake and tries to seal them again.

They are both helped by strong demons which get by in a cat form, called Madara in Natsume Yuujinchou and Amanojaku in Ghost Stories.

 

report Recommended by Kahya5

Same premise of a young person getting into trouble because they can see spirits. Both heroes receive help from a powerful good spirit that becomes their familiar. The two shows manage to convey a lot of emotions.

As for the differences, Pupipo is a tad more comedic and childish, it's also shorter.  

report Recommended by EratiK

Both of the main characters are able to see things that others can't, namely spirits and such.The main characters have lived a lonely childhood due to this fact and are shunned by their fellow students. If you like shows where the main character is the only one to see spirits in our world, you'll like both of these as they seem pretty similar. 

report Recommended by Jessie_mouse

Humans and ayakashi.  

report Recommended by firerez

Both deal with the realtionship between spirits and humans obviously. That isn't enough to make them similar on anything but the surface, but there is a similiar tension between them. 

report Recommended by eklie

Now I really don't know why flying witch has such a low rating, but I'll try to be objective here.
The Natsume Yuujinchou franchise is something that is held in a very high regard in the anime community and Flying Witch has similar aspects to it. They have got similar art styles and the same relaxing feel to it. Both shows have supernatural aspects to them that shows different characteristics that appear in each. If you liked the Natsume Yuujinchou series (which you should) then you should definitely give Flying Witch a try. 

report Recommended by somedayasunbae

- A laid back series about teenagers with a foot in the Supernatural world who come to live with distant relatives in a rural community. 

report Recommended by AreyKyoya

Both series have a similar feel to them. I personally liked Natsume Yuujinchou better, because of the characters.  

report Recommended by pyrusecho

- In Natsume Yuujinchou there are two main characters, namely Natsume and his bodyguard/companion Nyanko sensei (Madara).
This is similar to Kino no Tabi where Kino is accompanied by his talking motorcycle Hermes.
- Natsume helps/deals with Youkai and Kino visits countries, each one unique and a world on its own. Both have beautifully crafted episodes that present slice of life things. In general an experience is shown rather than it being judgemental.
-Both series are relaxing (although some might cry) and episodic.
-Last but not least, both are master pieces. 

report Recommended by Mythicism

Well, honestly stories are a lot differents, but yeah, there are some little things that made those 2 so different series becoming 'similar'.
Both main characters have a "contract" with a demon that will gonna 'eat' them whenever the contract will be done.
But it's not only this, i noticed a similitude in personalities of characters~
In fact, Natsume and Madara have a strange relationship that remember the one between Sebastian and Ciel. Because Madara and Sebastian have the part of the 'bad characters' but they care about their contractor for real, so afterall we could say there's a bit of "love" from them xD;
Also another thing about personalities, that made those chara even more similar is that: Natsume & Ciel are both mature for the age they have. They really are mature guys and take hard decisions sometimes, like adults do.
About their main stories, well a shared thing is that both series have a 'paranormal' side. i mean, Natsume has spirits and whatever is linked to them of course, and Kuroshitsuji has shinigami/angels/demons thing.

Well, anyway, don't hope to find in Kuroshitsuji a similar anime to Natsume (or viceversa) 'cuz, i repeat: stories are really differents.
Relationships, main chatacters, personalities, "paranormal" side: those are the things that both series share, in my opinion^^
By the way, Natsume is highly recommended!
Have a nice watch :3 read more 

report Recommended by EtnaEraclea

In both, the main character has a familiar and can see spirits. And Both have to keep their spiritual powers a secret from others because their sight causes problems for them and others. Another similarity is that both have the same kind of light-hearted and cute atmosphere to them. 

report Recommended by Tunatabi

The two stories are about characters that have to deal with "good" spirits and "bad" spirits. They're about to help the spirits but also the humans that are involved with those creatures (even though in Hakkenden some of the characters involved aren't specifically humans) 

report Recommended by ren6

Saraiya Goyou and Natsume are different anime with different plots, but the they have both an elegant delicate feeling to it, with touching plot points. Both main characters' main feature is kindness to others.  

report Recommended by MssZenzy

For some reason I kept thinking of Totoro when I watched this series. Both have great artwork, and unique characters. There are some very Miyazaki-esque characters in Natsume Yuujinchou - and both the movie and the series have good stories. I'd really recommend both these for someone wishing to experience something a bit more unique from an anime 

report Recommended by kaleidome

These stories have some interesting parallels. Both are "boy who can see yokai/spirits" shows taking place in the modern day, with main characters in high school who help others dealing with problems pertaining to the spiritual world, and have older, more experienced exorcist mentors. The main characters are somewhat similar despite having different appearances and are both voiced by the same Japanese seiyuu. The two mains come to terms with their place, locked between the human and spiritual word, and find happiness in that role.

There are some noted differences, however. Bakemonogatari focuses primarily on helping humans who have come across dangerous yokai that are cursing or possessing them, and spirits are rarely characters in and of themselves. It's also much more action-oriented and humorous, along with having a harem aspect to it and use of quirky human characters with moe and fanservice elements. The main character also acquired his ability to see strange think later in life, and is dealing with a new skill rather than an old one.

Natsume Yuujinshou is more of a Slice-of-Life, where Natsume helps out and befriends both yokai and humans, as he deals with his ability to see things that others can't. He changes from a person who was alienated and passed from family to family because of his strangeness, and the frightening things he saw as a child. He comes to value his ability as it allows him to make friends with yokai, and help them out. There's some action and humor, but it's a much more subtle and quiet series than Bakemonogatari.

The two series themselves have different animation styles, Bakemonogatari's being somewhat bizarre at times, but both are short-story oriented, with Natsume Yuujinchou being completely episodic and Bakemonogatari having short arts a couple episodes long. Both are sometimes considered 'slow' or 'boring', (though this is far from the case), because Bakemonogatari focuses so much on dialogue and characters, and Natsume has a more quiet atmosphere with only short moments of action or horror.

These are both great takes on the "guy who can see spirits" genre. And both worthy of a look. read more 

report Recommended by noirgrimoir

Similar colours, relaxing feeling, countryside, cultural feeling, and same voice actor for the protagonist.  

report Recommended by Mayuka

SHINIGMI CONCEPT, Comedy , brave hero with high spirit pressure or reatsu 

report Recommended by death_gun_

- These shows both have settings were youkai and humans live side by side, and separately at the same time.
- The art in both is similar and I personally consider it beautiful.
- They both have interesting stories even though I think that Otome Youkai Zakuro has little bit more depth in its story than Natsume Yuujinchou has. While Natsume's story develops slower and it introduces many different stories of different youkai and characthers, Otome is more concentrated on Zakuro's and other half-spirit's stories.
- In both series the characthers understand at one point that there are also gentle and good youkai among the evil ones.

- Both very good series indeed. I highly recommend both! :) read more 

report Recommended by Makum

In both worlds of Natsume Yuujinchou and Uchouten Kazouku, there exists mystical creatures with fantasy elements. Their worlds do they place in more of the modern world though.

The main male protagonists has similar personalities and forms relationships with various characters. There's a sense of slice of life mixed with drama and comedy present as well. It contains a small cast of characters but all of them has his or her own dynamics that are explored throughout the show. 

report Recommended by Stark700

Both of these anime deal with the interaction of the human and spirit world, through the eyes of those who stand between.  

report Recommended by sobeitalwys

The main characters Tarou (Ghost Hound) and Takashi (Natsume Yuujinchou) are alike. While Ghost Hound is darker and more psychological, Natsume Yuujinchou is a bit lighter and has a slice of life feeling. Still they both have supernatural elements. 

report Recommended by vigil

Both series have a laid-back and uplifting atmosphere. Natsume has more action and Sketchbook has more comedy, but they evoke similar feelings to me. 

report Recommended by Cenice

Both have that "calm" feeling to them, although their storylines are quiet different. If you liked that sense of peacefulness (even during the action parts), this is a must watch. 

report Recommended by skyscan

Natsume Yuujinchou and Kamisama Hajimemashita are similar because two protagonists are surrounded of mystic spirits. Also two animes have the feeling of the mystic asian japanese folk. Although Natsume Yuujinchou don't have romance. Both series are calm and nice. Very recommended. 

report Recommended by Shizuku-Kuroneko

Both of this anime have a different point of few where "Inu X Boku SS" tell the story from the main female character point of few "Natsume yuujinchou" do it from main male point of few.

both of the anime are a good anime, that developed really nice. as the episode goes they might give some heart warming effect to you. still even though it's have the same effect both anime have a different taste. whereas inu X boku SS will give you more about romance enjoyment, natsume yuujinchou give you more about the meaning of life it self.

if you really are looking for heart warming story like this, without any doubt I'll certainly recommend you these anime. I'm sure that you won't regret it. read more 

report Recommended by Rendhart

While Durarara is much more intense than Natsume and deals with an entirely different setting, both the soundtrack and animation really give off the same vibe. The similarities between Natsume and Durarara are subtle, but there.  

report Recommended by crookedQueen

Both aren't really that similar but both are super relaxing. If you like light-hearted, easy going anime, you'll like Natsume Yuujinchou.  

report Recommended by Milinar