The animated series of Ranma 1/2 is taken from Jin Kobayashi's manga comic published by Shogakukan, between 1987 and 1996. The TV series was made by Kitty Films for a total of 161 episodes of 25 minutes each.
The comic-surreal story is based on an ancient Chinese legend, the one concerning the Cursed Springs. Poor Ranma accidentally falls into one of these springs and becomes the victim of a curse that turns him into a girl, just as the girl drowns in those waters centuries ago. Ranma transforms into a girl whenever he comes into contact with cold water, while his father (also a victim of the curse) transforms into a giant panda. Ranma is engaged to Akane, but when the girl's suitor Aristocrat Kuno challenges him to a duel, Ranma accidentally turns into a girl. At that sight, Aristocrat Kuno falls in love with Ranma and this gives rise to a series of misunderstandings and grotesque situations. Ranma and Akane do nothing but fight and argue with each other, as they are both martial arts experts. Doctor Tofu, with whom Akane is in love, but unrequited, takes care of their wounds.