Japanese anime has captivated audiences around the globe with its unique storytelling, stunning visuals, and diverse genres. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a newcomer, this list of the top 100 popular Japanese anime series is sure to inspire your next binge-watch session.
1. Attack on Titan
A gripping tale of humanity’s fight for survival against giant humanoid creatures. With intense action and deep character development, this series has become a modern classic.
2. My Hero Academia
Set in a world where superpowers are common, this series follows a young boy without powers who dreams of becoming a hero. Its themes of perseverance and friendship resonate with fans.
3. Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba
This visually stunning series follows Tanjiro Kamado as he battles demons to save his sister. Its breathtaking animation and emotional depth have garnered widespread acclaim.
4. Naruto
A coming-of-age story about a young ninja with dreams of becoming the strongest leader in his village. Naruto’s journey is filled with friendship, rivalry, and personal growth.
5. One Piece
An epic adventure following Monkey D. Luffy and his crew as they search for the legendary One Piece treasure. Known for its rich world-building and memorable characters, this long-running series is a fan favorite.
6. Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood
A masterfully crafted tale of two brothers who use alchemy in their quest to restore their bodies after a tragic accident. Its themes of sacrifice and redemption resonate deeply with viewers.
7. Death Note
A psychological thriller about a high school student who discovers a notebook that allows him to kill anyone whose name he writes in it. The cat-and-mouse game between him and a genius detective is gripping.
8. Sword Art Online
Exploring virtual reality and the consequences of technology, this series follows players trapped in a video game where death in the game means death in real life.
9. Tokyo Ghoul
A dark fantasy about a college student who becomes a half-ghoul and must navigate the dangerous world of flesh-eating creatures while trying to maintain his humanity.
10. Your Name (Kimi no Na wa)
This critically acclaimed film tells the story of two teenagers who mysteriously swap bodies. Its stunning animation and emotional narrative make it a must-watch.
11. Steins;Gate
A sci-fi thriller that explores time travel and its consequences. The intricate plot and well-developed characters make it a standout in the genre.
12. Neon Genesis Evangelion
A groundbreaking mecha series that delves into psychological themes and existentialism, set against the backdrop of humanity's fight against monstrous beings.
13. Hunter x Hunter
Following a young boy’s journey to become a Hunter, this series is known for its intricate plot and character development, making it a beloved classic.
14. Cowboy Bebop
A space western that follows a group of bounty hunters as they navigate their pasts and adventures in a futuristic universe. Its style and soundtrack have left a lasting impact on anime.
15. Code Geass
A strategic mecha series about rebellion and power, featuring a protagonist who gains the ability to command anyone to obey his orders. Its twists and turns keep viewers on the edge of their seats.
16. JoJo's Bizarre Adventure
Known for its unique art style and eccentric characters, this long-running series follows the Joestar family across generations as they battle supernatural foes.
17. Fruits Basket
A heartwarming story about a girl who becomes involved with a family cursed to transform into animals of the Chinese zodiac. Its themes of acceptance and love are beautifully portrayed.
18. Monster
A psychological thriller about a doctor who saves a child's life only to discover he may have created a monster. This dark narrative is filled with suspense and moral dilemmas.
19. Black Clover
Focusing on a boy born without magic in a world where it’s everything, this series showcases his determination to become the Wizard King, filled with action and friendship.
20. Haikyuu!!
A sports anime that captures the spirit of teamwork and competition through the lens of high school volleyball. Its dynamic matches and character growth are inspiring.
21-100: Additional Recommendations
21. Clannad
22. Gintama
23. The Promised Neverland
24. Your Lie in April
25. Mob Psycho 100
26. Bleach
27. Violet Evergarden
28. Re:Zero - Starting Life in Another World
29. Sword Art Online: Alicization
30. The Seven Deadly Sins
31. No Game No Life
32. Dororo
33. Overlord
34. Toradora!
35. That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime
36. Made in Abyss
37. Akame ga Kill!
38. Kaguya-sama: Love Is War
39. Soul Eater
40. Attack on Titan: The Final Season
41. Paranoia Agent
42. Assassination Classroom
43. Bakemonogatari
44. Dorohedoro
45. Yona of the Dawn
46. Mushoku Tensei: Jobless Reincarnation
47. Hajime no Ippo
48. A Place Further Than the Universe
49. Guilty Crown
50. Angel Beats!
51. The Ancient Magus' Bride
52. Inuyasha
53. Naruto: Shippuden
54. Little Witch Academia
55. Fate/Zero
56. Naruto: The Last
57. Shingeki no Kyojin: No Regrets
58. Black Lagoon
59. ReLIFE
60. Baccano!
61. Gundam Wing
62. Golden Kamuy
63. Welcome to the Ballroom
64. March Comes in Like a Lion
65. Shouwa Genroku Rakugo Shinjuu
66. Yuri on Ice
67. The Rising of the Shield Hero
68. KonoSuba: God's Blessing on This Wonderful World!
69. Fairy Tail
70. Death Parade
71. Shiki
72. The Fate Series
73. Kakegurui
74. Cautious Hero: The Hero Is Overpowered but Overly Cautious
75. Miss Kobayashi's Dragon Maid
76. The Devil is a Part-Timer!
77. A Silent Voice
78. Little Busters!
79. Black Clover
80. BanG Dream!
81. Zombieland Saga
82. The World God Only Knows
83. Naruto Spin-off: Rock Lee & His Ninja Pals
84. Seirei Gensouki: Spirit Chronicles
85. Bunny Girl Senpai
86. Wonder Egg Priority
87. Toradora!
88. Dr. Stone
89. Fate/stay night: Unlimited Blade Works
90. *MGuilty Crown
91. Plunderer
92. Alderamin on the Sky
93. The God of High School
94. KonoSuba
95. How Heavy Are the Dumbbells You Lift?
96. The Quintessential Quintuplets
97. The Misfit of Demon King Academy
98. Dancing with the Devil
99. Vivy: Fluorite Eye's Song
100. Re:Creators
Conclusion
From action-packed adventures to heartwarming tales, the world of Japanese anime offers something for everyone. This list of the top 100 popular anime serves as a great starting point for anyone looking to explore the rich and diverse landscape of anime. Whether you prefer long-running series or one-off films, you’re sure to find something that captivates you. Happy watching!
