‘Journal the Witch’ Soars in Popularity, Offering a Heartwarming Respite in Winter 2026 Anime Lineup
A new anime series, Journal the Witch, is rapidly gaining traction among fans as the Winter 2026 anime season unfolds, currently ranking as the second most popular series on MyAnimeList. Amidst a wave of highly anticipated sequels and new releases, this introspective drama is resonating with viewers seeking a more grounded narrative.
A Standout in a Packed Season
The Winter 2026 anime lineup is already proving to be a major draw for fans, with the return of beloved series like Freeze: Beyond Journey’s End, Jujutsu Kaisen, Hell’s Paradise, Fire Force, and My Hero Academia: Vigilantes. New titles such as Sentenced to Be a Hero, Cosmic Princess Kaguya, and Love Through a Prism are also generating significant buzz. However, it’s Crunchyroll’s Journal the Witch that is experiencing a particularly notable surge in viewership.
According to data from the social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter, via the MyAnimeList handle, the series’ ratings have climbed dramatically in recent weeks. The show jumped from sixth place in the weekly charts during the second week of the month to its current position in second place.
From Acclaimed Manga to Captivating Anime
Journal the Witch is based on the critically acclaimed manga by Tomoko Yamashita, the creator of The Night Beyond the Tricornered Window. Praised for its “calm and captivating tone,” the anime offers a refreshing alternative to the often action-packed landscape of anime programming. While the manga achieved recognition in Japan during its serialization from 2017 to 2023, it has unfortunately never been officially released in English, limiting access for international fans.
A Story of Grief, Connection, and Self-Discovery
The series delves into themes of personal growth and the unexpected bonds that can form in the face of adversity. Despite its title, Journal the Witch isn’t a supernatural fantasy. Instead, the “witch” serves as a metaphor for the characters’ feelings of being different and misunderstood.
The story centers on Makio Kodai, a 35-year-old novelist known for her directness, which has strained her relationship with her sister, Minori. Following the tragic death of Minori and her husband in a car crash, Makio unexpectedly reconnects with her 15-year-old niece, Asa Takumi. Recognizing Asa’s struggle to process her grief, Makio encourages her to express her feelings through journaling.
When no other family members are willing to take Asa in, Makio makes the decision to become her guardian. This arrangement leads to an unlikely connection between the two women, as they navigate their individual challenges and learn to support each other. The narrative emphasizes relatable, real-life struggles, offering a poignant and emotionally resonant experience for viewers.
Journal the Witch is scheduled for 13 episodes, with new installments streaming on Crunchyroll every Sunday at 7:30 a.m. PT.
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The series’ success highlights a growing appetite for character-driven stories that explore complex emotional landscapes within the anime community.
