Dagashi Kashi

In the countryside, Kokonotsu Shikada would rather pursue manga than step into the small traditional-candy store his family has run for nine generations. His father wants him to become the next shopkeeper, but Kokonotsu refuses. Then Hotaru Shidare arrives with a purpose of her own: she wants Kokonotsu’s father to work with her family’s sweets firm. The older Shikada offers a condition—Hotaru must first persuade his son to accept the shop.

Built as a slice-of-life comedy, the series finds humor in the tension between youthful ambition, family expectations, and the pleasures tied to nostalgic Japanese candy. Hotaru’s eccentric determination gives the setup an energetic spark, while Kokonotsu’s reluctance keeps the central question personal: can an aspiring manga artist discover a new future in the shop he wants to avoid? Its focus on ordinary hopes and traditional treats gives the countryside setting a distinctive, cozy character.

This finished 2016 TV series contains 12 episodes. Begin with episode 1 to follow Hotaru’s mission from its starting point.

• Nostalgic Japanese candy
• A lively family dilemma
• Eccentric comedic energy
• Manga dreams meet tradition

Fans of cozy slice-of-life comedies, family dilemmas, nostalgic sweets, and eccentric characters will enjoy it.