"Story", what the show is about: 8/10
Solid depiction of characters growing and finding their footing in Kissui Inn. Genre is a mishmash of slice-of-life, drama, romance (bad at it tho) and comedy. It touches points like parent-child relations and how weird and distant they can be, fulfillment by working, inn management troubles, etc. Some story beats might annoy/disturb (dull romance, writer-freeloader's sexual harassment).
Characters: 7/10
Ohana is a bright-eyed outsider who faces frustrating beginnings yet steps up to the task. Meddlesome, like most protags do, endearing in her earnestness. The rest are down-to-earth yet exaggerated (dichotomy? Lmao) personalities, with plenty of flaws, ESPECIALLY THE TEENS UGH, united by their devotion to Kissui Inn. You're certainly not here for moe fuwafuwa, but if you can face some exaggerated realness (is that a thing?) they have charming moments. My fav is Okami-san.
OST: 9/10
OPs are upbeat, EDs are comfy, the rest clicks. Typical PA Works vibes, solid AF. Standout for me would be OP 1, Hana no Iro.
Visuals/Direction: 10/10
Perhaps my bias for such settings is showing, but I can't muster aught of noteworthy grievances against the visuals. Earthy colors, competent background art, downright gorgeous in important moments. Character movement is good, no stiffness, I can't recall a single boring dialogue scene from a directing perspective, which carried some scenes hard for me since the romance ain't bussing fr.
