The episode opens with a classic, nearly painful, scene of unrequited love. Our protagonist, Inari, has a massive crush on her schoolmate, Tanbabashi Kouji. He is the archetypal "prince" of the class: tall, soft-spoken, athletic, and kind. However, Inari is shy, clumsy, and lacks self-confidence. Her inner monologue is a hilarious blend of desperation and fantasy as she watches Tanbabashi from across the classroom.
Inari thinks, "If I look like Kouno-chan, Tanbabashi-kun will finally notice me." Inari- Konkon- Koi Iroha Episode 1
Let's dive into the key moments that make this first episode a delight for fans of supernatural romance and slice-of-life anime. The episode opens with a classic, nearly painful,
The episode begins with Inari taking a shortcut through the Fushimi Inari-taisha shrine to avoid being late for school. Along the way, she rescues a small fox pup, later revealed to be a familiar named , from being swept away in a river. However, Inari is shy, clumsy, and lacks self-confidence
Surprisingly, Tanbabashi is not a bland love interest. In Episode 1, he is observant. He notices Inari’s muddy clothes before the transformation, and he notices when something is "off" with the fake Kouno. He represents the theme that true affection is based on authenticity.
Grateful for Inari’s selflessness, Uka-sama appears before her. The goddess’s design is a highlight of the episode—a beautiful, ethereal woman in flowing Heian-era robes, flanked by two fox familiars (Kon and Kon). Unlike stern, distant deities in other anime, Uka-sama is bubbly, airheaded, and genuinely touched by human emotion. She offers Inari a single wish as a reward.