Five Gintama Episodes That Will Make You Cry

Gintama is a show that gives you whiplash in the most unpredictable ways. The series has gags as a facade but underneath them explores some deeply personal stories, painfully tearing your heartstrings. This contrast between the seemingly humorous nature of the show and piercingly sad moments makes the latter shine even brighter.

Here's a list of the five most tear-jerking standalone episodes of the show. They are, of course, still peppered with the signature humor, but it's woven into the dramatic canvas so perfectly that it just fits.

Episode 111

There's Almost A 100% Chance You'll Forget Your Umbrella And Hate Yourself For It

One of the plots that may make you shed wholesome tears, this one shows the family-like dynamic of the Yorozuya trio centering on Kagura. Rainy season brings people together in some unorthodox ways and shows how they care about each other and what is important to them.

Episodes 129 and 130

Beware Of Food You Pick Up Off The Ground & Cat Lovers and Dog Lovers Are Mutually Exclusive

This small two-episode arc starts with comedy but then dives deeply into drama in pure Gintama fashion. A Planet Eater alien invaded Earth a long time ago and ended up in a dog's body, becoming an unwanted pet for a grumpy old man. That man dreams of outliving all of his friends, so they won't cry because of him, and the alien takes this as a challenge, one that morphs into a very Gintama-esque friendship.

Episode 189

It's Better To Take Care Of This Year's Business Within The Year, But Once The Year Is About To End, You Figure That You Might As Well Put It Off Till Next Year For A Fresh Start. That's How The End Of The Year Goes

Another Kagura-centered episode is about her making friends with so many different people through doing morning radio exercises in the park. Despite her being super-strong and not very cultured, people flock to her, captivated by her soul, and that helps her make a lot of meaningful connections and fulfill some important promises that she made.

Episode 248

Madaodog Madaonaire

Madao is a character who is hated by the universe, considering all the mishaps he goes through. The episode which is essentially a parody of Slumdog Millionaire puts us through the journey of the events that led Madao to participate in the trivia show. It involves a little girl, one whom Madao tried to help with all his might despite having nothing.

Episode 265

Dog Food Doesn't Have As Much Flavor As You'd Think

More dogs in dire situations: this one follows Sadaharu, a giant dog that lives at Yorozuya, caring for a sick puppy. The premise itself already promises an emotional rollercoaster, but the way the events unfold is what cements it as one of the most dramatic stand-alone episodes, one that also explores the dynamic of everyone in the Yorozuya household.