The Story of Saiunkoku English Sub & Dub

About The Story of Saiunkoku

Here is what The Story of Saiunkoku (彩雲国物語) is about, retold in plain terms: an adventure, comedy and drama anime by MADHOUSE (2006). At its core: Saiunkoku is a realm of eight provinces or houses, each named after a different colour. The new Emperor, Shi Ryuuki, has gained a reputation for being uninterested in courtly matters and for flaunting his love for men.

More of the story: Shuurei, although born of the important Kou family, has difficulty making ends meet. She easily accepts an invitation to be the Emperor's concubine in order to turn him into a good ruler. The enigmatic Seiran, a young man who was adopted by her father, goes with her as Ryuuki's bodyguard.

In an adventure series like this, exploration, new locations and a steady sense of momentum drive the story. Voice work is led by Houko Kuwashima as Shuurei Kou and Hikaru Midorikawa as Seiran Shi. This one is best suited to anyone who enjoys travel-the-world storytelling. At 39 episodes in total, it is easy to plan a viewing schedule.

Production & Appeal

Animation is handled by MADHOUSE, so the studio's house style defines how The Story of Saiunkoku looks and moves on screen. The adventure focus matters here: exploration, new locations and a steady sense of momentum drive the story. A 7.4/10 score points to a dependable, well-liked series. On the casting side, Houko Kuwashima voicing Shuurei Kou gives the lead role a recognizable voice. It aired in 2006, which makes it easy to place in the wider anime calendar.