The romantic charm of summer anime has arrived with the debut of The Fragrant Flower Blooms with Dignity, which has now officially premiered its first episode in Japan. Alongside the launch, the production has unveiled both the opening and ending theme song videos, deepening the emotional connection audiences already feel with its tender story. The opening theme, “Manazashi wa Hikari,” is performed by Tatsuya Kitani, whose voice brings a heartfelt and stirring energy to the anime’s tone. Meanwhile, the ending theme titled “Hare no Hi ni” by UshioReira offers a softer, reflective mood that gently closes each episode with warmth and elegance.
Studio CloverWorks is behind the animation, with the creative leadership of Miyuki Kuroki who directed and storyboarded the first episode. Rino Yamazaki wrote the screenplay, and Kohei Tokuoka served as the chief animation director, ensuring that the visual storytelling lives up to the emotional complexity of the original manga. The result is a polished and emotionally resonant first episode that sets the stage for the rest of the series.
The voice cast features Honoka Inoue as Kaoruko Waguri and Yoshinori Nakayama as Rintaro Tsumugi, whose chemistry carries the story forward with nuance and sensitivity. They are joined by Kikunosuke Toya, Koki Uchiyama, Hiiro Ishibashi, and Aya Yamane, rounding out a solid ensemble that brings depth to every moment.
Based on the manga written and illustrated by Saka Mikami, The Fragrant Flower Blooms with Dignity follows the story of Rintaro, a boy studying at Chidori High, a school known for having the lowest academic reputation. While working part time at his family’s patisserie, Rintaro meets Kaoruko, a gentle and kind girl from Kikyo Girls’ High, a prestigious school for elite students. Their instant connection defies their contrasting social worlds, but as their bond strengthens, so do the obstacles from judgmental classmates and school traditions determined to keep them apart.
The anime captures this quiet rebellion against class expectations and the fragility of first love with care and beauty. The aesthetic decisions and musical choices in the opening and ending songs reinforce the emotional tone of the series, making the viewing experience feel intimate and immersive.
While Japanese audiences have already begun enjoying the episodes, Netflix has listed a July 13 premiere date for some Asian territories. For viewers in the United States and other countries, the show will be available from September 7. This staggered release schedule allows international fans to look forward to a season filled with heartfelt moments and the slow bloom of a story that speaks to anyone who’s ever had to fight for a simple connection in a world full of noise.
Follow Anime Insider on Instagram and Facebook to stay updated on the latest episodes, theme songs, and emotional highlights from The Fragrant Flower Blooms with Dignity.
