Episode 48 - Maison Ikkoku by Rumiko Takahashi

In a boarding house full of eccentric tenants, is there room for love between a bumbling student and his grief stricken landlady? Well, if Yusaku Godai can't get out of his own way long enough to get into University, what chance does he have of ever winning the heart of the beautiful Kyoko Otonashi!?

Often celebrated as Rumiko Takahashi's masterpiece, Maison Ikkoku trades the alien antics of Urusei Yatsura and martial arts mayhem of Ranma 1/2 for something more grounded—a slice-of-life romance that showcases her storytelling maturity.

Join Mat and returning guest AC (our resident Takahashi Correspondent) as they discuss how this seinen story maintains Takahashi's signature style while breaking new ground. They'll unpack the series' incredible cast of characters, impeccable pacing, and how, despite having the least likeable main character of all Takahashi's works, they still find themselves rooting for romance between the frustratingly indecisive Godai and the emotionally guarded Kyoko!

Thanks to Juliano Zucareli for our theme music!

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A Weekly Manga Podcast where we discuss the finest 1st volumes of manga to help you chose your next favourite title and build your collection!

• No. of episodes: 51
• Latest episode: 2025-05-05
• Leisure Animation & Manga Arts Books

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