Kino's Journey is an odd anime, which relies more on tone and situation than actual story. Kino rides from country to country on her talking motorcycle, observing the varying customs, and far too often the dark side of human nature.

The so-called countries being visited are far more like towns and cities, separated by immense, apparently unpopulated rural wildernesses. Most countries have some elements of science fiction technology, all have their own perils and strange customs.

Kino herself is an unusal character. She is silent and unexpressive: always open to new experiences and observations, she has already seen a lot of horrors and wonders, and while not jaded, she gusually behaves with calm detachment as events break around her. Occasionally, though, events break through her emotional shield. Hermes the motorcycle acts as devil's advocate, sidekick, and an ear for the audience, when Kino is alone.

The episodes are, for the most part, individual stories within the framework. of Kino's journeying. While they are often sad, horrible or tragic, somehow I found the series more peaceful than depressing. It is an introspective series that makes you think.

Unlike most anime girls, Kino is able to accept her inability to change the world, and is content to simply experience it.