With You and the Rain

is a Japanese manga series written and illustrated by Ko Nikaido. It has been serialized in Kodansha's manga magazine Weekly Young Magazine since August 2020. A 12-episode anime television series adaptation produced by Lesprit aired from July to September 2025.

Plot

Fuji is a reclusive novelist who lives alone. One rainy evening, while returning home soaked from the rain, she discovers an abandoned animal inside a cardboard box. Peering at the damp creature, she tentatively wonders whether it might be a dog. The animal responds by writing on a sketchpad: "I am a dog" and "I am easy to take care of". Convinced by these assertions, Fuji decides to take it home, naming the creature "You", and the two begin living together. Though acquaintances occasionally question You's true nature, Fuji consistently introduces it as a mixed-breed dog. Each time doubts arise, You reaffirms its canine identity through written messages. Their daily life unfolds quietly—Fuji, reserved and introspective, and You, clever and expressive—their interactions forming a gentle rhythm of companionship.

Characters

Fuji is a novelist characterized by her relaxed and introverted demeanor, though she possesses a deeply sensitive nature. She has a particular fondness for rainy weather. During the rainy season, she encountered You inside a cardboard box and subsequently chose to cohabit. Fuji regards You as a gifted mutt and derives great pleasure from their companionship.

During the rainy season, Fuji encountered an unnamed canine—referred to only as "You"—and took him in. You exhibits a curious and guileless disposition, with his emotions often manifesting plainly through his behavior. Demonstrating notable intelligence, he comprehends human speech and communicates by writing words on flip charts. His primary affinities include food and the company of Fuji, with whom he shares a close bond.

A well-mannered and inquisitive first-grade student, she resides adjacent to Fuji's home. As a pupil at an international school, her mixed heritage includes a German mother and Japanese father. She owns a pet dog named Kinako and demonstrates particular interest in You. Her curious nature manifests in frequent observations about the unusual pet next door.

Fuji's father. A seemingly stern but fundamentally warm-hearted person, he demonstrates deep familial devotion through frequent visits to his daughter Fuji's residence. Despite his initially intimidating appearance, he possesses an unexpectedly playful disposition. His visits, while motivated by care, result in Fuji's avoidance behavior that leaves him experiencing subtle loneliness.

A composed and articulate woman, she serves as the stabilizing presence in the family unit. Her demeanor is marked by measured speech and deliberate actions, with particular attention devoted to her husband Tatsuo's well-being. She enforces strict household prohibitions against smoking and excessive snacking, reflecting her health-conscious values. She maintains a detached attitude towards You.

A compassionate veterinary practitioner operating a clinic in proximity to Fuji's residence. He maintains professional familiarity with You since their initial encounter.

Media

Manga

Written and illustrated by Ko Nikaido, With You and the Rain debuted in Kodansha's manga magazine Weekly Young Magazine on August 17, 2020. Kodansha has collected its chapters into individual volumes. The first volume was released on March 5, 2021. As of July 4, 2025, eight volumes have been released.

In North America, the manga has been licensed for English digital release by Kodansha USA and the first volume was published on November 23, 2021.

Volumes

Anime

In August 2024, it was announced that the manga would receive an anime television series adaptation. The series is produced by Lesprit and directed by Tomohiro Tsukimisato, with series composition by Touko Machida, characters designed by Ayano Ōwada, animals designed by Ryo Yatate, and music by . It aired from July 6 to September 21, 2025, on the NUMAnimation programming block on ANN affiliates, including TV Asahi, as well as BS Asahi. The opening theme song is (also known as "Chuva"), performed by , while the ending theme song is "Filled", performed by .

Crunchyroll will stream the series. Medialink licensed the series in South, Southeast Asia and Oceania (except Australia and New Zealand) for streaming on its Ani-One Asia's YouTube channel.

Episodes

Reception

In a review of the first two volumes, Rebecca Silverman of Anime News Network praised the series for its art and its story, stating, "With You and the Rain is a slow, sweet story about the bond between a woman and her pet. Does it matter what the pet is? Maybe, but I think the main appeal of this series is how simple it is to just sit back and enjoy the ride."

The series was nominated for the 2022 Next Manga Award in the print manga category and was placed fourth out of 50 nominees.

Notes

References

Further reading

External links