Season 2 kicks off directly after the end of season 1, with the girls just ending their Holiday vacation and enjoying the New Year’s sights. As the season progresses, Yuru Camp tackles topics such as earning money for new equipment and how vitally important it is to be informed and prepared; but it also gives development to its characters making this more than just “cute girls doing cute things”.
While the story itself is still nothing majorly significant, watching this overwhelming charming cast of characters do anything continues to be an utter joy to watch. And that’s what Yuru Camp is, a character driven show. All the girls have terrific chemistry with their own quirks and personalities. Their charm is undeniable making Yuru Camp the soul soothing and relaxing watch that it is.
As I stated earlier, the girls do get some development learning new things about how to camp on your own, the importance of being prepared when camping with knowledge of the camp site, weather, local rules, and so on. This helps the show from feeling stagnant or stale, watching the girls learn and grow gives a feeling of progression.
Visually, Yuru Camp stays consistent with the first season. Because it takes place in the real world and the locations they visit are real places, the artists actually trace photos taken from these places to ensure that they are as accurate as possible. I also think that’s important too, as being accurate to real world locations can help travel and tourism to these wonderful places. From mountain vistas, lake landscapes, scenic cities and towns, to ocean views, Yuru Camp is a varied visual treat showing off the natural splendor of the Land of the Rising Sun. I would be remiss if I forget to mention the delectable food that’s made as well. Local delicacies from the places the group travels to, camp hot pots, and even cup noodles all look delicious and savory.
The characters are as cute as ever with rounded and soft looking designs that helps emphasize the comfiness that this show exudes in spades. But this season feels as though they incorporated just a few more visual cartoony gags, which is OK in my book, it enhances the already stellar comedy. The color palette is bright and colorful making the show look so lively.
Animation wise, Yuru Camp has its moments, but ultimately doesn’t have too much to write home about. There are no high movement scenes, but the animation does its job, especially during comedic scenes using chibi or exaggerated art styles to hit home the jokes, which are again terrific. Honestly the best shots are usually the still frame ones that feature the broad landscapes mentioned previously.
I don’t think I can overstate the excellence in Yuru Camp’s soundtrack. Jaunty tunes, peaceful melodies, silly songs, and hauntingly tranquil pieces fill the show that only enhances the viewers’ enjoyment. Using instruments such as violins, marimbas, acoustic guitars, wind instruments, and even just straight up whistling gives this score an earthy feel, which is very appropriate for the show. If I had to compare it to something, I would say it's reminiscent of the soundtrack found in Animal Crossing. Peaceful, calm, and uplifting music that can be listened to again and again, bringing a smile to one’s face with every listen. I highly recommend anyone reading to go listen to it if they’re able. You won’t regret it.
Yuru Camp’s sequel season came when we needed it most. In a time where lies, deceit, and hatred are the currency of the realm, Yuru Camp shows the importance of kindness, friendship, extending a helping hand to others, and enjoying the natural wonders around us with those that we hold dear. The joy and laughs this series offers is abundant and undeniable, and I’m very eager to go camping once again with these girls in the near future.
