Sakura Quest

Sakura Quest was produced by P.A.Works as the third installment in their 'Working Series,' following Hana-saku Iroha and Shirobako. Directed by Soichi Masui, the series explores the intersection of rural revitalization and personal identity, focusing on a young woman who inadvertently becomes the queen of a struggling tourism board in a declining Japanese village. The production aimed to depict the pragmatic, often overlooked challenges of community development and the emotional weight of finding one's place in a changing society.

The character designs for the series were handled by Kanami Sekiguchi, who sought to balance the grounded, professional nature of the characters with the distinct visual charm associated with P.A.Works' scenic depictions of rural landscapes. Upon its 2017 release, the series received attention for its steady, character-driven pace and its earnest approach to local tourism themes, distinguishing itself from more high-octane anime genres by prioritizing workplace dynamics and cultural preservation.