As a reserved freshman in college, Kanji Sasahara is searching for his place in the world. He stumbles upon Genshiken, a club that unites enthusiasts of otaku culture. Unfortunately, his pride is crushed by his senior, Harunobu Madarame, during his first visit, causing him to deny his own otaku nature. However, after befriending a devoted otaku named Makoto Kousaka, Sasahara becomes more involved in the club's activities, including discussing favorite anime, reading doujinshi, and attending conventions. He even meets fascinating individuals such as Kousaka's girlfriend, Saki Kasukabe, who is not an otaku and attempts to turn Sasahara into a "normal guy." Despite Saki's difficulties in understanding otaku culture and love for it, Sasahara begins to relish his time in Genshiken. He gradually lets go of his shame of being an otaku and immerses himself in the otaku lifestyle.