While training in China, Ranma Saotome and his father Genma were injured during a martial arts expedition, causing them to receive a strange curse—anytime they are splashed with cold water Ranma becomes a girl, and Genma turns into a panda! Only hot water can undo these transformations, but another splash of cold water will reopen the problem.
The complications do not stop there; Ranma learns he is betrothed to one of Soun Tendou"s daughters, the closest friend of his father. At the first family gathering it is decided that Ranma will marry Akane, the youngest daughter, a choice met with fierce objections from both families. The pair are completely incompatible, yet they must cohabit. Ranma"s normal life only adds to the turmoil, thrusting him into a string of humorous mishaps and misunderstandings that, in the end, might just be what he needs to get along with Akane. Despite the absurdity of his situation, Ranma tries to maintain a calm demeanor, hoping that the inevitable clashes will ultimately strengthen their bond.
