Fruits Basket has captivated countless fans worldwide with its manga and anime adaptations. This cherished shōjo series follows Tohru Honda, a kind-hearted girl entangled with the Sōma family and their supernatural secret – they transform into animals if hugged by the opposite sex.
Initially running from 1998-2006, Fruits Basket’s original manga amassed 23 volumes through heartwarming yet heartrending stories of friendship, young romance, and familial bonds. Comedic moments round out poignant drama and moving character growth.
With Fruits Basket garnering new followers after a 2019 reboot anime, there’s never been a better time to dive into this diverse supernatural drama. For newcomers aiming to experience the Sōmas’ journey, here is a watching guide to Fruits Basket and an intro to the various manga and anime installments:
Fruits Basket Watch Order
1. Fruits Basket (2001)
- Episodes: 26
- Released: Summer 2001
Tohru Honda, a 16-year-old orphan, is invited to stay with her classmate Yuki Sohma, his cousin Kyo, and their guardian, Shigure. Little does she know, the Sohma family harbors a unique curse: they transform into animals from the Chinese zodiac when hugged by the opposite sex.
As Tohru navigates daily life with the Sohmas, she grows closer to Yuki and Kyo while uncovering the complexities of their family’s curse. Despite moments of adventure and warmth, the curse holds deep pain and suffering for the Sohmas.
Though beloved, the 2001 anime adaptation of Fruits Basket covers only the initial story arc due to the ongoing manga series. This version aired on Trans TV and introduced many viewers, including myself, to the attractive world of Fruits Basket.
2. Fruits Basket (2019)
- Episodes: 25
- Release: Spring 2019
Tohru Honda’s life takes an unexpected turn after a family tragedy leaves her living in a tent. When the enigmatic Soma clan discovers her makeshift home, she is offered shelter by Yuki, Kyo, and Shigure Soma.
However, she soon learns that their family harbors a peculiar secret: they transform into Chinese zodiac animals when hugged by someone of the opposite sex.
This version of Fruits Basket is a remake, boasting modern visuals and produced by the TMS Entertainment studio, offering a fresh take on the beloved story.
3. Fruits Basket Season 2 (2020)
- Episodes: 25
- Release: Spring 2020
A year has passed since Tohru Honda moved into Shigure Sohma’s house, and during this time, she has formed deeper bonds with Kyo and Yuki.
Her connection with the entire Sohma family has grown stronger, and she has become privy to their ancestral secrets, offering support and aid with their struggles. Yet, as she explores deeper, she begins to uncover the darker truths hidden within their family’s history.
With summer on the horizon, Tohru is invited to spend her days alongside the Sohmas, particularly Kyo and Yuki. While she yearns for a relaxing vacation, the complexities of her relationships with the boys and the rest of the family start to surface, bringing with them old conflicts and buried emotions.
As they spend more time together, unresolved issues and past traumas resurface, complicating their interactions. Additionally, the looming presence of the Perpetual Supper and the authority of the family head, Akito Sohma, add to the tensions within the household as the zodiac members navigate their duties and obligations.
4. Fruits Basket The Final Season (2021)
- Episodes: 13
- Release: Spring 2021
After the revelation of a long-held secret in the previous season, the Soma family strives to move forward, yet their emotional burdens are onerous to shake off.
Tohru finds herself grappling with the reasons behind her desire for healing, struggling to confront the truth as she realizes that time is running out for someone dear to her.
Meanwhile, a lingering secret threatens to shatter the hearts of those involved, casting a shadow over their lives. However, amidst the darkness, a glimmer of hope emerges as they uncover a clue that could unravel the curse once and for all.
5. Fruits Basket -prelude- (2022)
- Episodes: 1 Movie
- Release: Winter 2022
Before the stories of Tohru and Kyo unfolded, Katsuya and Kyoko existed, whose lives intertwined in unexpected ways.
Explore the tumultuous beginnings of Tohru’s mother’s troubled past and the man who became her beacon of hope. Witness the blossoming of their love story and the genesis of the Honda family as this chapter brings the heartwarming tale of Fruits Basket to its full adaptation.
Despite being a prequel, watching this story at the very end is recommended, as it offers a recap of the anime series at the beginning of the film.
And remember, you can legally and fully enjoy Fruits Basket on Crunchyroll!
