How to watch ‘Higurashi’ in order
Higurashi: When They Cry is a standout in horror anime, which is rare in a genre that often struggles to translate horror effectively. Known in Japan as Higurashi no Naku Koro ni, or “When the Cicadas Cry,” this series has defied the odds with multiple successful adaptations. It might look like a slice-of-life story, but beneath the surface, it’s a chilling murder mystery.
Set in the quaint village of Hinamizawa in 1983, the plot kicks off when Keiichi moves to town and discovers its dark history. Every year during the village festival, mysterious deaths and disappearances occur, which the locals believe are caused by the “Oyashiro Curse.” As Keiichi and his friends investigate, they find that the curse might be real, and their efforts often lead to terrifying outcomes.
Originally a visual novel series, Higurashi launched with Onikakushi-hen in 2002. Since then, the franchise has expanded to include multiple anime seasons, OVAs, and even a live-action series. Navigating these can be confusing, so here’s the best order to watch, plus which entries are essential.
How to watch ‘Higurashi’ in order
Start with the 2006 anime release and watch in the following order:
- Higurashi When They Cry (2006)
- Higurashi no Naku Koro ni: Nekogoroshi-hen (OVA, 2007)
- Higurashi When They Cry: Kai (2007)
- Higurashi When They Cry: Rei (2009)
- Higurashi no Naku Koro ni Kira (OVA, 2011)
- Higurashi no Naku Koro ni Kaku: Outbreak (OVA, 2013)
- Higurashi: When They Cry – Gou (2020)
- Higurashi: When They Cry – Sotsu (2021)
While some parts are skippable, here are the essentials:
- Higurashi When They Cry (2006): This original adaptation by Studio Deen is considered the best starting point. Following Keiichi’s attempts to uncover the curse, this 26-episode series is accessible on Prime Video.
- Higurashi When They Cry: Kai (2007): The second season is more of an alternative timeline than a traditional sequel. Kai isn’t currently streaming but is a must for fans who want a deeper dive into the storyline.
- Higurashi When They Cry: Rei (2009): Rei has a mix of canon and non-canon episodes, with some fanservice elements that can be skipped if you’re only interested in the main plot. This series isn’t available on streaming either.
- Higurashi: When They Cry – Gou (2020): Marketed as a remake, Gou functions more like a sequel. While it diverges from the original series, new fans sometimes start with Gou and work backward for context. Gou is available to stream on Crunchyroll.
- Higurashi: When They Cry – Sotsu (2021): Sotsu, the direct follow-up to Gou, reveals the story from new angles but has divided fans with its controversial take on characters. It’s available for purchase on Prime Video.
Each Pack-A-Punch machine adds complexity to the story, giving fans multiple perspectives, interpretations, and mysteries to explore.
