Moving On

The group struggles as they grow from trying to help Menma move on and help each other move on as well.

In Chichibu, Saitama, a group of six fifth-grade-age childhood friends drift apart after Meiko "Menma" Honma dies in an accident. Five years later, Menma's ghost appears to Jinta Yadomi, asking him to grant a wish so she can pass on. The group reunites, though most do so reluctantly and initially believe Jinta is hallucinating since they cannot see or hear her. As the story progresses, members struggle with accusations that Jinta has not gotten over the death and must shoulder their own blame for it. All eventually join to help Menma move on while rekindling long-hidden feelings among themselves.

Quick Facts

Key location: Chichibu, Saitama

Lore & Background

Menma is a ghost who appears older than when she died, wearing the same dress from her accident and always barefoot. She interacts physically with the world by opening doors, cooking meals, and playing games, though only Jinta can see her initially. Others sense her presence through faint scents or sudden chills. Menma has no memory of her wish but harbors no resentment about her death; she wishes to be reincarnated to reunite with her friends. She holds special affection for Jinta, revealing a childhood dream of becoming his bride.

Reader's Guide

The narrative centers on a ghost who cannot pass on until a wish is granted. Jinta starts as a withdrawn hikikomori after his mother's death and Menma's accident. He initially tries to help Menma minimally but eventually gathers the group, believing they are key to solving the problem. The story explores how the group struggles with guilt over the incident while helping each other move forward. It highlights that Menma shows her presence to prove she is real to those who cannot see or hear her.

Did You Know?

The anime aired on Fuji TV's Noitamina block between April and June 2011.
A live action television film adaptation premiered in September 2015 on Fuji TV.
The ending theme is a cover of the 2001 single 'Secret Base' by Zone, performed by Ai Kayano, Haruka Tomatsu, and Saori Hayami.
An anime film sequel set one year after the series was released in Japanese theaters in August 2013.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is Menma unable to pass on at first?

Her spirit remains because she has an unfulfilled wish tied to her childhood friends. She needs their help to resolve this lingering attachment before she can move forward.

Do the characters recover after Menma leaves?

Yes, the friends learn to accept their grief and continue living without being haunted by the past. They reunite annually at the flower field to honor her memory while embracing their futures.