Watch The Twelve Kingdoms

The Twelve Kingdoms is a captivating fantasy anime series that aired from 2002 to 2003. It features a talented voice cast, including Aya Hisakawa, Bob Papenbrook, Dave Wittenberg, Jamieson Price, Joshua Seth, Kim Strauss, Kirk Thornton, Karen Strassman, Richard Cansino, Scott Page-Pagter, Wendee Lee, Paul St. Peter, Rie Kugimiya, Kappei Yamaguchi, Masaki Aizawa, Aya Ishizu, Takehito Koyasu, Houko Kuwashima, and Ken'ichi Suzumura.

The show is set in a parallel world comprised of twelve kingdoms. Each kingdom is governed by a monarch that possesses a unique power known as the "divine mandate." These rulers are responsible for maintaining the balance of their respective kingdoms and ensuring their people's safety and prosperity. However, their rule is not absolute, as various factions and political maneuvers come into play.

One of the main protagonists of the series is Yoko Nakajima, a high school student who is transported from modern Japan to the Twelve Kingdoms. There, she discovers that she is the rightful ruler of Kei, one of the kingdoms, and must embrace her destiny and overcome her own personal demons to become a just and compassionate ruler.

As Yoko navigates the treacherous political landscape of the Twelve Kingdoms, she meets several other characters who become pivotal to her journey. These include Rakushun, a wise and compassionate rat-like creature that acts as her guide and friend; Enki, a kirin, a mythical creature that blesses kingdoms with good luck and prosperity, who becomes Yoko's guardian and friend; and Suzu, a young girl who becomes Yoko's servant and friend.

Other major characters in the series include Youko's childhood friend Asano, who finds himself transported to the Twelve Kingdoms and becomes involved in Yoko's struggles; Taiki, a young kirin who fulfills a critical role in the mythos of the Twelve Kingdoms; and numerous other monarchs, officials, and morally ambiguous characters who bring intrigue and complexity to the story.

The Twelve Kingdoms is renowned for its inventive world building, rich characters, and intricate political dynamics. It explores themes of self-discovery, responsibility, justice, and power, and does not shy away from exploring the darker aspects of its characters and their world.

The animation is stunning, with lush backgrounds and intricate character designs that bring the world of the Twelve Kingdoms to vivid life. The show's soundtrack by Kunihiko Ryo is also a standout, combining traditional Japanese and orchestral elements to create a majestic and immersive atmosphere.

Overall, The Twelve Kingdoms is an enthralling epic that will undoubtedly capture the imagination of viewers of all ages. Its complex characters, creative setting, and intricate storytelling make it a must-watch for any fan of fantasy and intrigue.

The Twelve Kingdoms is a series that is currently running and has 4 seasons (69 episodes). The series first aired on April 1, 2002.