Watch Golden Kamuy

Golden Kamuy is a historical, action-adventure anime that follows the journey of Saichi Sugimoto, a veteran of the Russo-Japanese War, as he sets out to find a treasure hidden by a group of Ainu people, an indigenous group of Japan. Along the way, he meets Asirpa, an Ainu girl who possesses vital knowledge about the treasure's location.

The story is set in the early 20th century in Hokkaido, Japan's northernmost island, which was then a harsh and unforgiving land. The Ainu people, who had been living there for centuries, had a deep connection with the land and its creatures. However, with the Japanese government taking over Hokkaido, the Ainu people were pushed to the margins of society, and their culture and way of life were threatened.

The anime deals with themes of identity, culture, and history, and provides a window into the dynamics between the Ainu people and the Japanese settlers. The show is known for its detailed portrayal of Ainu culture and traditions, including their language, clothing, and food, which is a refreshing change from the typical portrayal of indigenous people in media.

The characters in Golden Kamuy are diverse and complex, with their own motivations and backstories. Saichi Sugimoto, the show's protagonist, is a soldier who fought in the Russo-Japanese War and is trying to make ends meet in Hokkaido. Despite his rough exterior, he has a soft spot for Asirpa and is dedicated to finding the treasure to help her people. Asirpa, on the other hand, is a skilled hunter and tracker who is fiercely protective of her people and their traditions. She provides a window into Ainu culture, and her interactions with Sugimoto provide a glimpse into the complexities of the Ainu-Japanese relationship.

The show also features a colorful cast of supporting characters, including Shiraishi, a convicted murderer who joins Sugimoto and Asirpa on their quest, and Tsurumi, a man with a dark past who is obsessed with the treasure. The interactions between these characters are often humorous and add to the overall enjoyment of the show.

One of the show's strengths is its action sequences, which are well-orchestrated and often brutal. The battles are not just physical but also psychological, with characters trying to outwit each other and gain the upper hand. The show is not afraid to show the harsh realities of survival in Hokkaido, with characters facing hunger, extreme weather conditions, and dangerous wildlife.

Another notable aspect of the show is its use of CGI for the animals. The animals, which include bears and wolves, are seamlessly integrated into the show and are a testament to the animators' skill. The use of CGI also helps to create a sense of realism and tension during the action sequences.

The animation itself is top-notch, with detailed backgrounds and character designs. The use of color is striking and adds to the overall atmosphere of the show. The show's opening and ending themes are also noteworthy, with catchy songs that fit the tone of the show.

In conclusion, Golden Kamuy is a must-watch for fans of action-adventure and historical anime. Its well-developed characters, unique setting, and detailed portrayal of Ainu culture make it stand out from other anime. The show manages to be both funny and brutal, with action sequences that thrill and characters that one can root for. Overall, it is a fantastic addition to the anime landscape and definitely worth checking out.

Golden Kamuy is a series that is currently running and has 4 seasons (53 episodes). The series first aired on April 9, 2018.