The second season of Aharen-san wa Hakarenai continues to deliver its signature blend of quirky comedy and heartwarming moments. Episode 4, which aired in Japan on April 28, 2025, and is currently streaming on Crunchyroll, takes things to a whole new level with Aharen’s surprising venture into gyaru fashion and a fun idol twist. Get ready for Raido’s unwavering support, some hilarious transformations, and a nostalgic trip down memory lane.
A Gyaru Makeover
The episode kicks off with a bang as Raido arrives at school to find Aharen sporting a flashy, gyaru-style outfit. Inspired by their classmate Riku Tamanaha, Aharen’s sudden transformation leaves Raido completely flustered. The gyaru style, known for its bold fashion choices, including vibrant makeup, trendy clothing, and often tanned skin, is a significant departure from Aharen’s usual quiet and unassuming appearance.
Raido, ever the supportive friend (and boyfriend!), can’t help but be influenced by Aharen’s new look. As the day progresses, he gradually transforms into a “gyaruo,” the male counterpart of a gyaru, complete with a delinquent-inspired style. Embracing his new persona, Raido boldly invites Aharen out for some “fun,” leading them on an unexpected adventure.
Raido’s Unwavering Support
One of the highlights of the episode is Raido’s dedication to supporting Aharen, no matter how outlandish her ideas may seem. His willingness to embrace the gyaruo lifestyle showcases his unwavering affection and acceptance of Aharen’s choices. As one reviewer on Anime News Network aptly puts it, “Raido belongs on every list of all-time best anime boyfriends. His love and supportiveness for Aharen in all things she either does or Raido imagines she does knows no bounds.”
This level of support is not just limited to fashion. Raido’s encouragement and assistance extend to all aspects of Aharen’s life, whether it’s helping her prepare for a relay race or navigating her newfound friendship with Riku. His unwavering belief in Aharen’s abilities and his willingness to go the extra mile make him a truly exceptional character.
Idol Dreams and No-Mix-Up Mix-Ups
The episode’s second part takes an even more unexpected turn when Aharen and her siblings dress up as idols. This segment provides plenty of opportunities for comedic misunderstandings and visual gags, as Raido’s imagination runs wild. The humor is further amplified by the “no-mix-up mix-up,” a recurring gag in the series where the audience is led to believe that Raido’s outlandish fantasies are actually happening.
While the idol segment may be the weakest of the three, according to Anime News Network, it still offers plenty of entertainment value. The episode pokes fun at the idol culture while showcasing the unique bond between the Aharen siblings.
A Nostalgic Trip
Adding another layer of enjoyment to the episode is a nostalgic reference to older online games. Raido gets invested in PriPla, which leads to a visual aesthetic reminiscent of the late 90s/early 2000s. Anime News Network highlights this, noting that Raido’s characters have “ginormous, quintessentially kawaii eyes and Gakuen Handsome chins.” It’s the kind of anime that someone who doesn’t watch anime sees in their mind’s eye when you ask them to envision what anime looks like.”
This segment resonates with viewers who grew up during that era and appreciate the over-the-top, frill-loaded ensembles reminiscent of magical girl anime like Card Captor Sakura. It also touches upon the pain of getting invested in a game only for its service to be cut, a feeling that many gamers can relate to.
Episode 3 Recap: Athletics Festival Fun
In case you missed it, Episode 3 centered around the athletics festival. Raido and Aharen’s day begins with a minor wardrobe malfunction when Raido rips his pants while helping an old man. Aharen, in her own quiet way, comes to the rescue by sewing his pants back up, though not without some humorous complications.
The episode also sees Aharen and her classmates preparing for a relay race. Despite her initial reluctance due to her perceived lack of speed, Aharen is encouraged by Raido and her friends to participate. When a teammate gets injured, Aharen even suggests abstaining to avoid hindering the team. However, Raido and the others reassure her that her presence is what matters most. The episode culminates in a touching moment between Ishikawa and Oshiro, and Tamanaha finds common ground with Aharen’s little brother, Ren.
Season 2: A Promising Start
Overall, Season 2 of Aharen-san wa Hakarenai is off to a strong start. The series maintains its signature blend of offbeat humor, heartwarming moments, and quirky characters. The introduction of Riku Tamanaha adds a new dynamic to the group, while the ongoing romance between Aharen and Raido continues to be a source of joy and amusement.
Critics have praised the series for its unique comedy, its refreshing take on romance, and its ability to create a sense of warmth and comfort. As Anime News Network notes, “The off-beat, sometimes downright absurd, comedy in this show is wholly unique to itself and always leaves me excited to see what manner of nonsense is going to get imagined up next.”
Beneath the Tangles echoes this sentiment, stating, “Watching these two deadpan dorks carry on with their sweet little romance warms my heart.” The review also highlights the seamless integration of new characters into the group, noting, “Everyone comes together naturally, and the friend group grows and adapts to the newcomer effortlessly. No drama, no dwelling on things for scenes on end—just some good, old-fashioned communication, and then you move on from there.”
Where to Watch
Aharen-san wa Hakarenai Season 2 is currently streaming on Crunchyroll. New episodes are released every Monday, so be sure to catch up on all the latest antics of Aharen, Raido, and their friends.
Final Thoughts
Episode 4 of Aharen-san wa Hakarenai Season 2 is a delightful blend of comedy, romance, and nostalgia. Aharen’s gyaru transformation and the idol segment provide plenty of laugh-out-loud moments, while Raido’s unwavering support showcases the heartwarming nature of their relationship. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the series or a newcomer, this episode is sure to leave you with a smile on your face and a craving for more. With its unique humor, lovable characters, and refreshing take on romance, Aharen-san wa Hakarenai continues to be a standout anime in the Spring 2025 season.
