- 1. Introduction
- 2. Where to Watch
- 3. Trailer & Early Buzz
- 4. Key Information
- 5. Story (Spoiler-Free)
- 6.Main Characters
- 7. About the Original Work
- 8. Highlights & What to Look Forward To
- 🎓 Rascal Does Not Dream of Bunny Girl Senpai – A Thought-Provoking Slice of Supernatural Romance
- 💡 Emotionally Charged and Intelligent Storytelling
- 🎭 Complex and Realistic Characters
- 🎬 Elegant Visuals and Subtle Direction
- 🎶 Jazz-Inspired, Mood-Perfect Music
- 😂 Sprinkles of Dry Humor
- ☀️ Recommended Points Summary
- 🌟 Final Thoughts
1. Introduction
Returning to TV in April 2025 as part of the spring anime season is the beloved and enduring series, Rascal Does Not Dream of Bunny Girl Senpai.
Originally aired in 2018, the show captured viewers with its unique worldview and emotionally resonant storytelling.
Even after its initial run, it has remained a fan favorite across social media and anime events.
This re-broadcast presents a perfect opportunity for newcomers to discover the series, while longtime fans can revisit its charm and depth.
With stunning visuals, subtle psychological themes, and a cast of unforgettable characters, the story is set to once again capture the hearts of many.
👉 Not sure where to begin with the Rascal Does Not Dream series? Check out our complete watch order guide here to start your journey the right way!
2. Where to Watch
TV Broadcast (Japan):
- Nagoya TV (Me~tele): Starting April 3, 2025 (Thursdays at 2:00 AM JST)
Note: The first three episodes (April 3, 10, 17) will air at 2:30 AM JST due to special programming. - TOKYO MX, Gunma TV, Tochigi TV, BS11: Starting April 9, 2025 (Wednesdays at 12:30 AM JST)
Streaming
1. Crunchyroll:
- Availability: The series is available for streaming on Crunchyroll in multiple regions, including the Americas, Australia, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, and Ireland.
- Language Options: As of December 3, 2024, Crunchyroll offers both the original Japanese version with English subtitles and an English dubbed version.
2. Hulu:
- Availability: In the United States, Hulu began streaming “Rascal Does Not Dream of Bunny Girl Senpai” on January 20, 2025.
- Language Options: Hulu provides both the English dubbed version and the original Japanese version with English subtitles.
3. FunimationNow:
- Availability: FunimationNow has streamed the series in North America since its initial release.
- Language Options: Offers both subbed and dubbed versions.
4. Netflix:
- Availability: The series has been available on Netflix in select regions. However, availability can vary, and some users have reported regional restrictions.
- Language Options: Typically includes multiple subtitle options and, in some regions, dubbed versions.
5. AnimeLab (now part of Funimation):
- Availability: In Australia and New Zealand, the series was available on AnimeLab, which has since merged with Funimation.
- Language Options: Offers both subbed and dubbed versions.
Regional Differences:
- Europe: Availability varies by country. For instance, Wakanim streamed the series in France, Germany, and other European regions.
- Asia: Aniplus Asia simulcasted the series in Southeast Asian countries.
Release Dates and Times:
- The series originally aired in Japan from October 4 to December 27, 2018.
- International streaming release dates varied, with platforms like Crunchyroll and FunimationNow offering simulcasts during the original airing period.
Language Options:
- Subtitles: English subtitles are widely available across platforms. Some services may also offer subtitles in other languages, such as Spanish, depending on the region.
- Dubbing: An English dub was released on December 3, 2024, and is available on platforms like Crunchyroll and Hulu.
Note: Streaming availability and language options are subject to change due to licensing agreements. It’s recommended to check the specific platform in your region for the most current information.
🧭 Feeling confused about where the movie fits into the series? You’re not alone.
Make things easy with our step-by-step Rascal Does Not Dream watch order guide and enjoy the emotional ride from start to finish.
📺 TV Broadcast Information (Japan – April 2025 Re-run)
| Channel | Start Date | Air Time (JST) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Me~tele (Nagoya TV) | April 3, 2025 | Thursdays at 2:00 AM (26:00) | First 3 episodes (Apr 3, 10, 17) air at 2:30 AM (26:30) due to special programming |
| TOKYO MX / Gunma TV / Tochigi TV / BS11 | April 9, 2025 | Wednesdays at 12:30 AM (24:30) | Standard late-night anime block |
📡 Streaming Services (Japan)
| Platform | Availability | Notes | URL |
|---|
| d Anime Store | Available now | Standard Japanese anime catalog | https://animestore.docomo.ne.jp/ |
| d Anime Store for Prime Video | Available now | For Amazon Prime members in Japan | https://www.amazon.co.jp/adlp/danime |
| d Anime Store (Nico Nico branch) | Available now | Streams via Nico Nico Douga platform | https://site.nicovideo.jp/danime/ |
| ABEMA | Available now | Free and premium options | https://abema.tv/ |
| U-NEXT | Available now | Includes rental and subscription options | https://video.unext.jp/ |
| Anime Hodai (アニメ放題) | Available now | SoftBank users often get discounts | https://vod.softbank.jp/special/animehodai/ |
| Bandai Channel | Available now | Offers older Sunrise and Bandai titles too | https://www.b-ch.com/ |
| Hulu Japan | Available now | Different from Hulu US | https://www.hulu.jp/ |
| DMM TV | Available now | Anime + general Japanese entertainment | https://tv.dmm.com/ |
| FOD (Fuji TV on Demand) | Available now | Mostly Fuji TV-related titles | https://fod.fujitv.co.jp/ |
| Nico Nico Channel | Available now | Comment overlay system popular in Japan | https://ch.nicovideo.jp/ |
| VideoMarket | Available now | Pay-per-view system | https://www.videomarket.jp/ |
| music.jp | Available now | Also includes music/movie content | https://music-book.jp/video/ |
⚠️ Notes for International Anime Fans Watching in Japan:
- Most services are Japan-exclusive and require a Japanese IP address. If you are visiting Japan, you can access them directly. If you’re overseas, VPNs may technically work but violate terms of service.
- Language: Almost all platforms provide only Japanese audio with no subtitles. English subtitles are generally not included.
- Payment & Access: Some services like U-NEXT or Hulu Japan require a Japanese credit card or phone number to register.
- Free vs. Paid: Platforms like ABEMA and Nico Nico offer limited free viewing, but full access often requires a premium membership.
- Regional Platforms: Hulu Japan is separate from Hulu US and has a different catalog.
3. Trailer & Early Buzz
Trailer:
- A brand-new trailer for the re-broadcast hasn’t been released yet.
- However, fans can still view the original promotional videos and highlight clips on the official Aniplex YouTube channel.
- There are also rumors of a potential high-definition re-edit or special version, so keep an eye out for updates.
Fan Reactions on Social Media:
| Category | Score (out of 10) | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Story | 9 | A masterful blend of romance, sci-fi, and emotional drama. The “Adolescence Syndrome” premise is used cleverly to explore psychological themes. |
| Characters | 9 | Each character is well-developed, with clear motivations and emotional growth. The chemistry between Sakuta and Mai is particularly strong. |
| Animation | 8 | High-quality animation with subtle expressions and clean character designs. Not action-heavy, but strong in emotional visual storytelling. |
| Music | 8 | The soundtrack by fox capture plan adds a jazzy, emotional touch. Both the opening and ending themes are memorable and fitting. |
| Worldbuilding | 8 | The setting is grounded in everyday life, but the supernatural elements are seamlessly integrated, enhancing immersion. |
| Romance (Flexible Category) | 9 | The romantic development is genuine and mature, avoiding common clichés. Emotional payoff is deeply satisfying. |
- “A re-run now? Something new might be coming!”
- “Can’t wait to see Sakuta and Mai-senpai together again!”
- “I wanted to rewatch it after the movie—this is perfect timing!”
The announcement of the re-broadcast was met with excitement online, showing the enduring love for the series.
Comments from the Production Team:
- No new comments have been released from CloverWorks or the cast as of yet.
- Still, the official announcement received a flood of retweets and likes, proving the show’s lasting popularity.
4. Key Information
- Title: Rascal Does Not Dream of Bunny Girl Senpai
- Broadcast Start: April 3 (Me~tele) / April 9 (TOKYO MX and others)
- Studio: CloverWorks
- Director: Sōichi Masui
- Series Composition / Script: Masahiro Yokotani
- Character Design: Satomi Tamura
- Music: fox capture plan
- Cast:
- Sakuta Azusagawa (CV: Kaito Ishikawa)
- Mai Sakurajima (CV: Asami Seto)
- Tomoe Koga (CV: Nao Toyama)
- Rio Futaba (CV: Atsumi Tanezaki)
- Nodoka Toyohama (CV: Maaya Uchida)
- Kaede Azusagawa (CV: Yurika Kubo)
- Shoko Makinohara (CV: Inori Minase)
- Official website and official Twitter(X)
5. Story (Spoiler-Free)
Set in the quiet coastal town of Fujisawa, the story follows high schooler Sakuta Azusagawa, who encounters a mysterious girl dressed as a bunny in a library.
That girl is Mai Sakurajima, a former celebrity now on hiatus—and strangely, no one else can see her.
This bizarre phenomenon is part of a condition known as “Adolescence Syndrome,” where emotional turmoil during puberty causes inexplicable supernatural events.
As Sakuta meets other girls affected by similar symptoms, he works to understand and help them—growing and healing in the process.
The show gently explores themes of vulnerability, youth, and the awkwardness of first love, wrapped in an everyday setting touched by the surreal.
🔽 Start Watching in the Right Order!
Whether you’re new to the series or planning a rewatch, our watch order guide will help you experience the story the way it was meant to be told.
6.Main Characters
🐰 Mai Sakurajima (桜島 麻衣)
Voice Actor (JP): Asami Seto
Personality: Elegant, strong-willed, reserved, deeply caring
Mai is a third-year student and former child actress who becomes the center of the first (and most iconic) arc of the series.
She’s famously seen wearing a bunny girl costume in a library, unnoticed by everyone except Sakuta.
Her struggle with being “invisible” due to the effects of Adolescence Syndrome is a powerful metaphor for feelings of isolation and identity loss.
As the series progresses, Mai shows herself to be both intelligent and emotionally nuanced.
Though initially reserved, she opens up through her deepening relationship with Sakuta. She often acts as the mature voice of reason while also revealing her vulnerability in key moments.
Why she stands out:
- 💡 Her “invisibility” arc explores social anxiety and fading identity
- 🎭 Beautiful balance of elegance, strength, and emotional honesty
- 🎶 Her character themes and arc have a lasting emotional resonance
💬 Sakuta Azusagawa (梓川 咲太)
Voice Actor (JP): Kaito Ishikawa
Personality: Blunt, sarcastic, kind-hearted, emotionally honest
Sakuta is the story’s main protagonist—a second-year high school student with a sharp tongue and a soft heart.
He may come off as indifferent or dry, but he consistently goes out of his way to help others, especially those suffering from “Adolescence Syndrome.”
His deadpan humor and brutally honest nature make him a unique male lead in the romance genre.
Despite a quiet past filled with trauma and social isolation, Sakuta remains emotionally grounded.
He often speaks with a maturity and honesty that disarms those around him. His calm demeanor contrasts with the surreal and often emotional situations he’s thrown into.
Why he stands out:
- 🎭 Refreshing male lead who doesn’t fall into cliché tropes
- 💡 Unflinchingly faces emotional conflict with empathy and logic
- 😂 Delivers some of the most memorable deadpan one-liners in modern anime
7. About the Original Work
- Based on: Rascal Does Not Dream light novel series (published by Dengeki Bunko)
- Author: Hajime Kamoshida
- Illustrator: Keiji Mizoguchi
- Copies Sold: Over 3 million in total
Previous Adaptations:
- 2018: TV anime Rascal Does Not Dream of Bunny Girl Senpai
- 2019: Feature film Rascal Does Not Dream of a Dreaming Girl
- Additional volumes from the light novel series are reportedly in production for future adaptations, heightening fans’ anticipation for what’s next.
8. Highlights & What to Look Forward To
🎓 Rascal Does Not Dream of Bunny Girl Senpai – A Thought-Provoking Slice of Supernatural Romance
Looking for a series that combines emotional depth, sharp dialogue, and a dash of the mysterious?
Rascal Does Not Dream of Bunny Girl Senpai is a standout in modern anime, offering a unique blend of teenage angst and supernatural phenomena.
💡 Emotionally Charged and Intelligent Storytelling
💡 A story that uses “Adolescence Syndrome” as a metaphor for real psychological struggles
💡 Each arc is focused on a different character’s internal conflict, beautifully tied into surreal events
💡 Thought-provoking themes about identity, invisibility, and self-worth
✅ Ideal for viewers who enjoy deep, layered storytelling
✅ Every arc builds naturally, leading to satisfying emotional conclusions
🎭 Complex and Realistic Characters
🎭 Sakuta Azusagawa is a refreshing male protagonist – blunt, awkward, but deeply caring
🎭 Mai Sakurajima (the “bunny girl senpai”) is strong-willed, mature, and emotionally rich
🎭 Supporting cast like Futaba, Kaede, and Tomoe offer unique perspectives and conflicts
✅ Dialogue feels natural, clever, and often surprisingly raw
✅ Romantic development is realistic and emotionally grounded
🎬 Elegant Visuals and Subtle Direction
🎬 Soft color palettes and realistic backgrounds enhance the show’s grounded atmosphere
🎬 Character expressions are subtle yet incredibly expressive
🎬 Visual storytelling over flashy effects – minimalistic yet meaningful
✅ Animation by CloverWorks is clean and emotionally resonant
✅ Direction focuses on quiet moments, eye contact, and long pauses for effect
🎶 Jazz-Inspired, Mood-Perfect Music
🎶 Soundtrack by fox capture plan brings a stylish jazz vibe
🎶 Opening theme “Kimi no Sei” is energetic and iconic
🎶 Ending theme changes depending on the arc – each tailored to the featured girl’s story
✅ The music elevates the emotional tone without overwhelming scenes
✅ Fans often revisit the soundtrack for its relaxing yet emotional appeal
😂 Sprinkles of Dry Humor
😂 Sakuta’s deadpan sarcasm is gold – quick, witty, and unfiltered
😂 Hilarious banter between Sakuta and his friends feels natural and sharp
😂 The contrast between serious moments and comedic relief is well balanced
✅ Never too heavy – the humor lightens the emotional depth at just the right times
✅ Smart writing keeps even dialogue-heavy scenes engaging
☀️ Recommended Points Summary
✅ Deep, meaningful story arcs tied to relatable teenage struggles
✅ One of the best anime romances – sincere, grounded, and slow-burn
✅ Strong, emotionally rich characters you won’t forget
✅ Beautiful animation and nuanced direction
✅ A jazz-flavored soundtrack that perfectly complements the mood
🌟 Final Thoughts
Rascal Does Not Dream of Bunny Girl Senpai is not just a romance or a supernatural drama—it’s a personal journey for each character and the audience.
Whether you’re here for the heartfelt romance, philosophical undertones, or witty dialogue, this anime delivers a truly memorable experience.
9. Final Thoughts & What to Expect
Rascal Does Not Dream of Bunny Girl Senpai may be a re-run, but it offers a fresh emotional experience that feels timeless.
Its ability to express inner struggles with authenticity, paired with outstanding visuals and music, continues to resonate—especially in today’s fast-paced world.
Whether you’re new to the series or returning to relive its emotional highs, this re-broadcast is worth your time.
Don’t forget to revisit the original TV series and the movie beforehand for the full experience.
When & Where to Watch:
- April 3, 2025: Me~tele
- April 9, 2025: TOKYO MX, Gunma TV, Tochigi TV, BS11
Stay tuned to the official website and social media accounts for updates on streaming availability and related events!
📌 Want to watch the entire series in the correct order, including the movie and sequel arcs?
👉 Don’t miss our Complete Watch Order Guide for Rascal Does Not Dream – essential for first-time and returning fans!
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