Thermae Romae

Thermae Romae was produced by Studio GONZO in 2012 as an anime adaptation of Mari Yamazaki’s acclaimed manga series. The story follows Lucius Modestus, a Roman architect who discovers a mysterious tunnel that transports him to modern-day Japan, where he finds inspiration in contemporary bathing culture to solve architectural challenges in ancient Rome. The production aimed to blend historical comedy with cultural observation, utilizing a distinctive, simplified visual style that contrasted with the elaborate, classical backdrop of the Roman Empire.

The series was directed by Azuma Tani and was notable for its experimental aesthetic, which often incorporated Flash animation techniques to mirror the surreal and comedic tone of the original source material. While the production faced some criticism for its unconventional animation quality, it was widely praised for its clever narrative premise and historical playfulness. It has since become a cult favorite, serving as a unique bridge between historical fiction and the modern traditions of Japanese sentō and onsen culture.