Honey Lemon Soda – A Sweet Start to the 2025 Anime Season
Honey Lemon Soda is a delightful romance that kicks off the 2025 anime season with warmth and charm. Adapted from the beloved manga by Mayu Murata, this series captures the bittersweet essence of high school life, making it a must-watch for fans of the romance genre.
The story follows Uka Ishimori, a timid girl seeking a fresh start after enduring bullying and cruel nicknames in middle school. At Hachimitsu High School, Uka’s path crosses with Kai Miura, a carefree and charismatic boy whose lemon-yellow hair is as striking as his straightforward demeanor. As it turns out, their connection runs deeper than just being seatmates—Kai was the one who inspired Uka to embrace this new chapter of her life.
What sets Honey Lemon Soda apart is its blend of heartfelt storytelling and relatable characters. Uka is a protagonist you can’t help but root for, her journey from self-doubt to self-confidence serving as the series’ emotional core. Kai, with his laid-back yet supportive nature, is the perfect foil to Uka’s reserved personality. Their interactions are equal parts sweet and sincere, delivering plenty of swoon-worthy moments without feeling forced.
Visually, Honey Lemon Soda is a treat. The art style leans into soft, pastel palettes that complement the story’s optimistic tone. The animators bring Kai’s lemon soda metaphor to life, using clever visual motifs to highlight his impact on Uka’s growth. Whether it’s sparkling bubbles or warm sunlight filtering through the schoolyard, the show exudes a gentle yet uplifting atmosphere.
The supporting cast also deserves recognition, as they round out the social dynamics of Hachimitsu High. From friends who encourage Uka to step out of her shell to classmates who challenge her resolve, the ensemble ensures that the narrative remains engaging beyond the main couple’s romance.
While Honey Lemon Soda adheres to familiar shojo tropes, it does so with a refreshing sincerity that keeps it from feeling stale. The pacing is steady, allowing the characters to develop naturally, and the dialogue strikes a balance between lighthearted and meaningful.
For anyone looking for a feel-good anime to start the year, Honey Lemon Soda is the perfect pick. It’s not just a love story—it’s a celebration of personal growth, resilience, and the people who inspire us to shine. Whether you’re a fan of the manga or discovering this world for the first time, this anime promises to leave you smiling and reaching for your own can of fizzy sweetness.
While episode 1 may be the only episode out, we are eagerly optimistic for this series and look forward to seeing it blossom into our 2025 feel good anime of the year.
Rating: 8.5/10
A sparkling blend of romance and self-discovery that’s as refreshing as its name suggests.