Natsume Takashi is one of those main characters who is very easy to feel attached to. His gentle nature and "always working for the better of others" outlook on life make him very likable.
Not only does this show focus on character development, but it also centers a lot around plot. The plot is pretty easy to decipher, and they really take time to introduce each new development, never throwing complicated twists and turns at the reader without explaining how it connects to everything else.
I might have thought that a slow-placed, plot and character driven story would be a little dry, but that certainly isn't the case here. While a lot of the humor comes from situational comedy and irony, it provides a light-hearted and amusing tone to an otherwise serious story.
There's also the youkai aspect of the show which is certainly interesting. I think that in order to really understand and enjoy the show at first impression, one needs to have a little understanding of Japanese folklore, which makes the shrines, seals and creatures easier to understand.
Overall, great show. I highly recommend it.
