I teared up multiple times while watching this series and I still can't put my finger on why; I think it must be the simple beauty of the story, characters and setting.

This isn't a drama, the character arcs are very subtle and many things go semi-unresolved (such as Ryoko's unhappiness). However I think this adds to the zen-like experience of watching the series. I learnt so much about traditional Japanese culture through watching and I enjoyed every minute. It made me want to see a Geiko's performance IRL, they're so elegant yet expressive.

The acting was so natural at times it felt like a documentary. The OST was composed by the same woman who wrote for Cowboy Bebop and she did a fantastic job - the music perfectly reflects the beautiful simplicity of the story. I always kept the credits playing on Netflix just so I could listen to it!

I highly recommend this series to anyone interested in Japanese culture, and anyone who wants a chilled-out, easy to watch experience.