March Comes In like a Lion [Manga] – Info, Plot, Main Characters
Japanese Title: 3月のライオン (Sangatsu no Raion); lit. “The Lion of March”
Year of Release: 2007 – 2026 (continues) (18 volumes)
Writer: Chica Umino
Original Publisher: Hakusensha (Eng.: Denpa)
TV: March Comes In like a Lion Anime Series 2016 – 2018 (44 episodes)
Anime Movies: –
Facts: March Comes In like a Lion swept major honors — taking the fourth Manga Taishō, topping the general category at the 35th Kodansha Manga Awards, winning the Grand Prize at the 18th Tezuka Osamu Cultural Prize, and claiming the manga Grand Prix at the 24th Japan Media Arts Festival.
Setting
March Comes In Like a Lion is primarily set in Shinkawa, a picturesque district situated along the Sumida River in the bustling metropolis of Tokyo. The narrative frequently features the tranquil home of the Kawamoto sisters—Akari, Hinata, and Momo—located in Tsukuda, a neighborhood intimately connected to Shinkawa by the iconic Chuo Bridge. These domestic scenes offer a sense of warmth and stability amidst the protagonist’s internal turmoil. Furthermore, the depiction of the shogi hall, a central location for the competitive world of professional play, closely resembles the actual headquarters of the Japanese Shogi Association, nestled in the Sendagaya area, lending an authentic and grounded atmosphere to the series’ depiction of the professional shogi world.
Plot Summary
The narrative intricately follows the life of Rei Kiriyama, a remarkably gifted 17-year-old professional shogi player. Despite his prodigious talent on the board, Rei is profoundly adrift, grappling with overwhelming loneliness and deep emotional struggles stemming from the tragic loss of his entire family at a young age. Living alone and maintaining very few close relationships, he feels a pervasive sense of alienation from the people and the world around him. The story chronicles his arduous journey of personal growth and self-discovery, emphasizing his developing connections with the Kawamoto sisters: Akari, the nurturing eldest sibling; Hinata, the supportive middle sister; and Momo, the innocent youngest. These sisters, with their unwavering warmth and acceptance, play an instrumental role in helping Rei confront his inner demons, overcome his emotional barriers, and gradually find a much-needed sense of belonging and purpose in his life.
Main Characters
- Rei Kiriyama: The protagonist, a 17-year-old shogi prodigy whose exceptional skill on the board contrasts sharply with his internal battles against loneliness and profound emotional turmoil following the loss of his family.
- Akari Kawamoto: The eldest of the Kawamoto sisters. She is a kind and responsible figure who lovingly cares for her younger siblings. Akari develops a deep, caring, and supportive relationship with Rei, acting as a maternal presence in his life.
- Hinata Kawamoto: The middle sister, known for her supportive nature and unwavering loyalty. Her positive influence and genuine affection contribute significantly to Rei’s emotional healing and journey toward self-acceptance.
- Momo Kawamoto: The youngest of the Kawamoto sisters. Her youthful innocence and simple, unburdened affection bring warmth and a sense of normalcy to the family dynamic, offering Rei moments of pure, uncomplicated joy.
The series intricately weaves together profound themes of personal growth, the transformative power of human relationships, and the enduring impact of loss. Through Rei’s journey and his connections with the Kawamoto family, March Comes In Like a Lion offers a poignant and deeply moving exploration of life, resilience, and the essential human need for connection.
