First of all, anime and novel approach are really different. Deen's adaptation rushed the content, for seemingly obvious reasons. Hinamizawa's world and atmosphere wouldn't be well built in animated media, and if it tried to it would reach 50 episodes for each arc.
in LN/VN have a clear understanding of the village lore, and every part involved has enough screentime. This can be an issue if you are focused on the major points, since the novels want to bring all the pieces together at their own pace. There is no unnecessary exposition of facts; and even though this chapter is really dragged in the first moments, everything pays off later.
We have a better understanding of Keiichi's mind, most of the time through soliloques and monologues. Never detracting from the theme in question. Which basically means that they are very insightful to the construction of the big puzzle the players and readers are in. Higurashi is, before a thriller, a mystery story. There are tips after every part/day of each chapter, and they are always necessary for a full understanding.
The sceneries are always well crafted. They are immersive enough to provide a dense atmosphere, and manage to be both bright and menacing when it needs to be. Every character is hiding secrets through a façade, whether for self preservation or protection of someone outside. The writing is enticing, sufocating and adrenaline packed all at once. And the closing of Onikakushi leaves a high note for more.
All in all, Higurashi's first chapter was great from the very start. And I highly recommend you to try it. You won't regret it.
Thank you for reading.
