Otogi Zoshi - Legend of Magatama (Vol. 1) + Series Box

Otogi Zoshi is set during Japan's Heian Era (794-1185) and is equal parts action, drama, and intrigue. Kyoto, the capital of ancient Japan has become a corrupt and run-down city, filled with self serving nobles, and onmyoji who only care about gaining political power. In the meantime, the city is suffering from famine and widespread disease.Minamoto no Raiko, a reknowned archer and samurai is sent to recover a legendary gem called the magatama said to hold the power to restore the capital. But Raiko has fallen ill so his younger sister, Hikaru secretly assumes his identity and goes in his place. She and her loyal bodyguard Tsuna later meet new companions and have many exciting and dangerous adventures on the quest for the legendary magatama.The animation is gorgeous to look at and the storytelling is superlative filled with lots of complex and memorable characters. The producers made special attention to historical details as you can see in the extra features section.If you are looking for a change of pace from standard anime fare, this is definitely the series to watch. The main character is similar to "Kai Doh Maru" which I also have, but definitely this story is WAY superior of the two.I highly recommend Otogi Zoshi to all anime fans, it is one of the BEST anime series out there!

At the peak of the Heian Era, famine and diease tear the country apart, deadly assasins fill the court, and wild bandits, infest the countryside. The legendary samurai Minamoto is sent on an Imperial quest for an artifact that can restore the world. but his skill with the bow cannot save him from illness, and his young sister is force to take his place.