Are You Looking for the best anime of all time and the greatest tv shows that japan has made so far?
Well, you are in the right place as you are about to discover the top 53 best anime of all time to fully enjoy! Through our article, we have made a very comprehensive selection of the greatest anime ever, with multiple genres, themes, and options that suit all tastes.
Come on to find out the best anime of all time, see their summaries, then go to the streaming services where they are available for viewing.
53. Carol and Tuesday
First on the list of the all-time best anime is Carole & Tuesday, a 24-episode series produced by Bones Studio and directed by Shinichirō Watanabe as a celebration of the studio’s 20 years and 10 years of record-setting. It aired in 2019.
It occurs in the future, on Mars, which has been partially repaired. There, Tuesday Simmons runs away from home and goes to Alba to become a song and ends up finding Carol Stanley, the refugee who was orphaned from Earth. Together, they become the carol duo and Tuesday make their dreams come true.
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52. My Roommate is a Cat
One of the top anime of all time is My Roommate is a Cat, which is based on the manga of the same name written by Minatsuki and illustrated by Asu Futatsuya. In 2019 the animated version was released, and it easily became one of the best animations of 2019.
It follows Mikazuki Subaru, a shy and socially troubled writer who has just lost his parents and, upon visiting the grave, ends up finding and adopting an abandoned cat. Together, they end up learning to live and cope with each other’s presence. It is very touching and beautiful, as well as being a guide on how to care for cats.
51. Samurai 7
The 2004 anime series produced by Gonzo based on the 1954 movie called Seven Samurai, Samurai 7 was directed by Toshifumi Takizawa and has 26 episodes.
In fact, it tells the story of a village called Kanna and takes place in a futuristic world that has just witnessed the end of a gigantic war. In it, the Nobosiri bandits – the ex-samurai – terrorize all the villages.
The village elder employs seven samurai who are willing to help protect the place and teach the residents how to fend for themselves.
50. Castlevania
Continuing this list with one of the best original netflix anime of all time, called Castlevania, an Netflix production released in 2017 produced by Kevin Kolde and his company Project 51 and written by famous writer Warren Ellis, which has 3 seasons and quickly became a hit, being considered as a must-watch anime for all fans.
Based on the Castlevania video game series, To prevent the vampire Dracula from destroying the world in revenge for the death of his wife, the animation follows the journey of Trevor Belmont, Siva Bellendas, and Alucard Tepes. Castlevania has excellent characters and a graceful and captivating narration from start to finish.
49. Devilman Crybaby
Another really good option, if you are looking for the best horror animes is Devilman Crybaby, an original Japanese animated series based on a series of manga. Directed by Masaki Yuasa, produced by Aniplex and Dynamic Planning. Animation by Science Saru which is a 2018 Netflix release.
Now, it takes place in the 21st century and follows Akira Voodoo and his friend Ryo Asuka. Ryo suggests that Akira team up with a demon to obtain his powers so he can defeat them. Then he does so, becoming Satan, with demonic powers but with a human spirit. It deals with various topics of puberty, gender, gay identities, and more.
48. Erased
Initially, it was a manga written and illustrated by Kei Sanbe. However, in 2016, it became a good anime created by A-1 Pictures and quickly became one of the best japanese shows of all time, in addition to having a live-action movie and series.
The show follows Satoru Fujinuma, a mangaka with social problems. However, he has an uncanny ability to go back in time before horrific moments in order to save many lives. But one day, he sees his mother dead and accused of murder, and then he goes back nearly two decades until he becomes a child again. Now, you must save your mom and prevent the murders that happened at that time. It is available on Crunchyroll.
47. Kill la Kill
An original series with 24 episodes and 1 OVA, Kill la Kill was released between 2013 and 2014 and was first produced by Estudio Trigger. It was written by Kazuki Nakashima and directed by Hiroyuki Imaishi, responsible for Gurren Lagann, who also appears on this list.
Undoubtedly Kill la Kill is one of the best anime with high ratings of all time, and it follows the story of Ryuuku Matoi, a rebel student who searches for her father’s killer, which leads her to join the Honoouji Academy and develop a bloody competition with Satsuki Kiryuin and your mother’s fashion empire. Go to Netflix to watch.
46. Rurouni Kenshin
The story of the Rurouni Kenshin anime series follows the powerful swordsman Kenshin Himura, a legendary ex-assassin who is trying to find his new peaceful way in life.
Now, as a wandering swordsman, Kenshin is trying to protect the people in Japan instead of going back to his former assassination life. During his previous life, He has seen that the world is bloodthirsty and thrives on violence, and he knows that it’s wrong.
That’s why you should really watch the Rurouni Kenshin anime series one of the best samurai shows of all time, as it showcases a huge theme of personal peace and forgiveness.
45. Yuri !!! on the ice
Yuri on Ice is a great sports anime about snowboarding, produced by Mappa on ICE, directed and written by Sayo Yamamoto, and has a choreography created by a professional in the industry. The show features 12 episodes that first aired in 2016.
Follow Yuri, a young figure skater who terribly lost in the Figure Skating Finals. Then he returns home and stays at his parents’ house, where he ends up meeting a Russian champ and his coaching partner and joins them to compete in another Grand Prix.
44. Dororo
Another excellent choice among Japanese animes is Dororo, which comes from a manga series written and designed by Osamu Tezuka in the late 1960s. The current release, released in 2019, contains 24 episodes.
It follows the kid who is replaced by his father, Lord Daigo Kagemitsu, for the prosperity of his land when he makes a pact with 12 demons. However, this child did not die and the anime tells its story of fighting those who sinned.
43. Blue Exorcist
Illustrated and written by Kazue Katō, Blue Exorcist is a manga series released in 2009. It was adapted into an anime in 2011 by A-1 Pictures and has two seasons.
Follow Rin Okumura, a young-looking normal. Ultimately, demons ambush him and it turns out that he is the son of Satan and that his father wants him to return to him. However, that is not what Rin wants. So he trained to become an exorcist to be able to defend humans.
42. Jojo’s Bizzare Adventure
One of the best and most popular anime of all time is JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure, which is based on a series of manga written and filmed by Hirohiko Araki. It originally became an anime in 1993, but the second season came out in 2012 and new episodes are still coming out.
It follows the Joystar family through the centuries, from 1880 to the present day, always focusing on a family member and his adventures. Everyone has what is known as “stands”, super-powerful special abilities that allow them to strike at their enemies. It is available to watch on Crunchyroll.
41. Haikyuu
With 4 seasons depicting an epic volleyball story, Haikyuu is really one of the best sports anime of all time that you will absolutely enjoy while watching every single episode.
The story of Haikyuu chronicles the ambition of the main character Shouyou, who is Determined to be like the volleyball championship star, a short boy nicknamed “the small giant”.
40. Tokyo Ghoul
Tokyo Ghoul is an amazing anime! It’s special because it has a lot of exciting stuff like action, superpowers, mystery, drama, horror, gore, violence, and tricky mind games. I think that’s why it’s one of the best anime ever.
The story is about a guy named Ken Kaneki. He’s scared of creatures called ghouls, just like many others. But then, one day, he gets attacked by a ghoul. Something unusual happens, and now he’s part human and part ghoul. Now, he has to deal with people hating him and scary ghouls trying to hurt him. It’s a tough situation, but it makes the anime really interesting!”
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39. Ghost in the Shell
Based on the manga of the same name written and illustrated by Masamune Shirow, the 1995 cyberpunk movie Ghost in the Shell is a popular animation that currently has several releases, including OVAs and several other films.
It takes place in Japan in the year 2029 and follows Motoko Kusanagi, a cyborg police officer who tracks a mysterious pirate known as Puppet Master. The narration includes philosophical themes that focus on self-identity and a set of advanced techniques.
38. Jujutsu Kaisen
Jujutsu Kaisen is a super cool anime! People really like it, and it’s one of the best from 2020. The story is unique, the animation is awesome, and it’s considered one of the best anime ever!
It’s about a boy who accidentally swallows a cursed thing, like a demon’s finger. Now, he’s cursed too! To get rid of the curse, he goes to a school for shamans. He has to find the other parts of the demon to free himself from the curse.”
37. Kaguya-sama: Love is war
If you want a good laugh, check out Kaguya-Sama: Love is War. It’s a funny romantic comedy based on a manga by Aka Akasaka. There are 24 episodes in two seasons, released in 2019 and 2020.
The story is about Miyuki Shirogane and Kaguya Shinomiya, who seem like the perfect couple. Well, they’re both determined to make the other confess their love first. The crazy things they do for this will definitely make you laugh a lot!
36. The Promised Neverland
The Promised Neverland is a really cool anime based on a manga by Kaiu Shirai and Posuka Demizu that started in 2016. The show began in 2019 and got a second season in early 2021, plus a live-action movie in December of that year, unless it got delayed because of quarantine.
The story is set in 2045, and a bunch of kids live in an orphanage. Everything seems fine until Connie finds out some really scary secrets. With friends Ray and Norman, they come up with plans to fight the bad stuff and make a daring escape. It’s full of suspense and excitement!
35. Made in Abyss
A girl named Riko and a mysterious boy-like robot, are searching for Riko’s mother, who’s lost within a vast chasm called the abyss, and which is considered a popular hunting place for the cave invaders, who make a difficult and dangerous landing in the foggy hole to recover any traces that can be found.
The girl and her friends decided to enter the abyss, but they do not know the harsh truth that is the true existence of the abyss.
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34. Hajime no Ippo
Hajime No Ippo is an old anime that started in October 2000 and went on for four seasons until March 2014. It’s a top-notch sports anime that tells the story of a shy, not-so-strong boy who finds the amazing world of boxing. In English, it’s called Fighting Spirit, and it shows how hard work and determination can turn a once weak person into something incredible.
33. Anohana
Ano Hana is a great drama anime to watch! It has 11 episodes released in 2011 and was made by a team called Super Peace Busters, led by director Tatsuyuki Nagai, writer Mari Okada, and character designer Masayoshi Tanaka.
The story is about a group of childhood friends who drifted apart after one of them passed away. Five years later, the leader of the group, Jinta, has isolated himself from society. Then, the spirit of their departed friend appears, asking Jinta to do something so they can move on. This brings the friends back together, and as they help their friend’s spirit find peace, they also learn to move forward in their own lives.
32. Clannad
Clannad is one of thebest and most tear-jerking anime of all time, a sad story that chronicles the life of Tomoya Okazaki, a delinquent who finds life dull and believes he’ll never amount to anything. Along with his friend, he skips school and plans to waste his high school days away.
One day while walking to school, Tomoya passes a young girl muttering quietly to herself. The girl’s name is Nagisa and after a while they become friends, and Tomoya learns that life isn’t as dull as he originally thought. Well, you must bring tissue before starting watching this good romance yet sad anime series that will make you cry till you run out of tears!
31. Parasyte
Parasyte is an awesome anime that has action, horror, and psychological stuff. It’s about Shinichi Izumi, a regular guy who gets attacked by a parasite. But instead of taking over his brain, it ends up in his right hand. The story follows Shinichi and the parasite in his hand. Shinichi goes from being a weak and scared boy to becoming a strong, powerful, and reliable man. It’s a cool zero to hero journey!
30. Cowboy Bebop
Cowboy Bebop is one of the classic Japanese anime series that will offer you twenty-six epic episodes that are set in the year 2071. Although the show aired back in the 90s, it is still one of the most watched animes up to now. The main story depicts the daily adventurous lives of a bounty hunter crew traveling in their spaceship called the Bebop.
29. Konosuba
I love this funny anime, and it’s one of the best isekai series ever. Every time I think about Konosuba, I can’t help but laugh. It’s a real comedy gem, and you’ll want more of it. The story is about Kazuma, who has a happy day until he dies. But then, a goddess gives him a second chance in a magical land.
28. Naruto Series
If you haven’t heard of Naruto, it’s time to come out from under your rock and start watching it right away. Naruto is one of the best anime ever, and it’s a one-of-a-kind experience! The first part has 220 episodes, Naruto Shippuden has 500 episodes, and there’s even a spin-off called ‘Boruto.’
All these parts tell the story of Naruto Uzumaki, a playful young ninja who wants to be recognized and dreams of becoming the village leader, the Hokage, and the strongest ninja.
27. Your Lie In April
Your Lie In April is one of the best and most popular romance Japanese anime series of all time, with a super sad story that is notorious for its ability to make people cry.
With the main character Kousei Arima being a child pianist prodigy, he is asked by a violinist to accompany her for a musical competition. However, neither of them expected their lives to change so much from their encounter.
26. Black Lagoon
Based on the manga of the same name written and illustrated by Rei Hiroe, Black Lagoon released its first two seasons in 2006. It also has an OVA, Roberta’s Blood track that contains only 5 episodes.
It follows a group of well-known pirate mercenaries with the Lagoon Company, which smuggled goods in Southeast Asia in the early 1990s. Lagoons kidnap Rock, a Japanese businessman, who soon joins them on their various missions and adventures, all for money.
25. Psycho Pass
One of the best psychological anime of all time is Psycho-Pass, the cyberpunk anime series produced by I.G. It was co-created by Naoyoshi Shiotani and Katsuyuki Motohiro and was written by General Urobuchi. The first season was released between 2012 and 2013, with the second season in 2014.
In the twenty-second century, Japan has a system of divination, which is a method for determining the threat level of every citizen by examining his mental state for any sign of criminal intent. Akane Tsunimori is a young woman with a strong desire for justice. However, with work, you discover that the system in use is not as perfect as everyone thinks, and you face many questions about what really is fair.
24. One Piece
One Piece, based on the manga of the same name written and written by Eiichiro Oda is one of the longest-running with the best animations ever. More than 900 episodes have been produced since 1999 and aren’t expected to end soon. In search of the hidden treasure of the famous pirate Gold Roger, the one piece. In fact, the story is following the adventures of Monkey D. Luffy and his crew. On their journeys they face all kinds of challenges, fight with strange creatures and find all kinds of amazing places.
23. Violet Evergarden
Violet Evergarden started as a set of light novels by Kana Akatsuki and Akiko Takase. It turned into a 13-episode anime in 2018. Originally set to release in 2019, it got postponed due to the pandemic but eventually began in 2020.
The story is about Auto Memories Dolls, people who write for others. It follows Violet, a girl who was a war machine but now wants to connect with people after the war. She decides to become an auto memory doll.
22. Darling in the Franxx
Darling in the Franxx is one of the best anime that I really got into and couldn’t get enough of! The story is set in a future where humans are struggling to survive, and kids are trained in places called Plantations to pilot mechs and fight monsters. A cool mecha pilot named Zero Two invites Hiro to join her in piloting the Franxx. Together, they team up and easily beat the monsters in their battles.
21. Neon Genesis Evangelion
One of the best anime ever and an excellent option to watch during quarantine is Neon Genesis Evangelion, a Japanese mecha anime produced by Gainax and directed by Hideaki Anno, released between 1995 and 1996.
It takes place in Japan 15 years after the Apocalypse event, known as Impact II, in the futuristic, fortified city of Tokyo 3. Shinji, a teenager who is recruited by his father, Gendo, follows to lead a Mika called Evangelion to protect the world against the aliens known as angels.
20. Dragon Ball Series
Dragon Ball’s premise tells the tale of a young warrior who is extraordinarily strong and lives alone in the woods, the boy named Goku.
This is one of the most popular anime tv shows of all time, that got so many seasons. just sit tight and behold the adventure of Goku as he grows up to become one of the most overpowered anime characters of all time.
19. Bleach
Bleach is unique superpower action anime that follows the life of the High school student Ichigo Kurosaki after he obtains the powers of a Soul Reaper a death personification similar to the Grim Reaper from another Soul Reaper, Rukia Kuchiki.
His newfound powers force him to take on the duties of defending humans from evil spirits and guiding departed souls to the afterlife.
18. Steins Gate
Steins; Gate is one of the greatest sci-fi anime ever. It’s about Okabe Rintarou, a college student and self-proclaimed mad scientist. He accidentally figures out how to send messages to the past, called D-mails. As Okabe and his friends use these D-mails, they realize that messing with time tends to mess things up in return.
17. Mob Psycho 100
Mob Psycho 100 is one of the best action anime ever! It started as a manga drawn by ONE from 2012 to 2017. The Bones Studio turned it into an anime with the first season in 2016 and the second season in 2019. There’s even a live-action movie from 2018.
The story is about Shigeo, also known as Mob, a boy who finds it hard to express himself but has incredible powers. To live a regular life, he tries to control his abilities with the help of some not-so-genuine experts.”
16. Boku no Hero Academia
My Hero Academia is a highly recommended anime, based on the manga by Kõhei Horikoshi, released in 2014 in Japan, adapted for an animated version in 2017, and quickly garnered a large number of fans and many awards with its 78 episodes so far and two feature films. Screenshots.
In a world where most of the population has some kind of supernatural power and superheroes are a glorious and lofty profession, Izuku Midoriya dreams of becoming one of them one day. However, he has to face a big problem: he has no powers, which change when he meets his great idol, All Might, who offers him the opportunity to become a great hero.
15. Hellsing Ultimate
Another one of the best anime ever is Hellsing Ultimate, which is based on the manga series of the same name written and illustrated by Kota Hirano. It became anime in 2001, and this version was released between 2006 and 2012.
Alucard follows the Integra servant, leader of an organization known as Hellsing. He is a vampire who fights other vampires, as well as those who stand against the goals of the organization.
14. Vinland Saga
Based on a manga series written and illustrated by Makoto Yukimura that tells of historical events, Vinland Saga is one of the best anime releases of 2019 you will fall in love with.
It takes place at the beginning of the eleventh century, in England while it is dominated by the Danes and followed by people known as the Vikings. It combines a dramatic display of King Cnut’s history to power with an arc of revenge centered on explorer Thorfinn, son of a dead ex-warrior.
13. Demon Slayer
A relatively recent anime, Demon Slayer quickly proved that it deserves a spot on that list. It was animated by Ufotable in 2019, and it is based on the manga written and illustrated by Koyoharu Gotõge and has won several accolades since its recent release.
Demon Slayer follows the story of Tanjiro Kamado, a kind-hearted little boy who killed his family by demons and his younger sister turns into one of these creatures, which causes him to train to become a demon hunter and prevent others from suffering like him.
12. Berserk
Berserk is an amazing anime that many people think is the best ever. It’s a cool animation inspired by Kentaro Miura’s work, and it started in Japan in 1989. It’s still being made today. There are two TV versions: one with 25 episodes in 1997 and another as a set of three movies from 2012 to 2017.
Berserk is a dark and supernatural story, that follows the life of a guy named Guts, who’s a lone mercenary. He gets forced to join the Falcon Squad, led by a tricky guy named Griffith. Even though the story is intense and tough, lots of anime fans believe it’s one of the best fiction stories ever made.
11. Code Geass
Code Geass is one of the top mecha anime series of all time, produced by Sunrise, the manga is written by Ichirō Ōkouchi and the show is directed by Gorō Taniguchi. The show has two seasons that aired from 2006 to 2008.
It takes place in an alternate world, where the exiled prince Lelouch vi Britannia gains the ultimate power of obedience from a woman called only CC. With this supernatural power, he leads a revolt against the empire and leads many mica battles.
10. Gurren Lagann
Gurren Lagann is one of the best and most famous anime of all time, animated by Gainax and co-produced by Aniplex with Konami. It has 27 episodes released between April and September 2007. It was directed by Hiroyuki Emishi and written by Kazuki Nakashima, after it was adapted for the manga at a later time.
It follows two teenage friends, Simon and Kamina, who were born and raised in an underground village hidden from the surface. Together, they flee the village with the help of Yoko Leitner and join the fight against the Beastmen, human creatures terrorizing what remains of humanity on the roof.
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9. Gintama
In Gintama, Earth is attacked by aliens called “Amanto” from outer space. Samurai in Edo Japan don’t follow the rules set by the invaders and fight to protect Earth. However, the shōgun, who is the leader, gives up when he sees how powerful the aliens are.
The shōgun makes a deal with the aliens that’s not fair. He agrees to some one-sided rules, like not being allowed to carry swords in public, and lets the aliens come into the country. The samurai’s swords are taken away, and the government becomes like a puppet controlled by the aliens. By the way, I suggest you watch this Gintama, which is considered as one of the best of all time, and it will keep you excited to see what happens next.
8. Monster
Monster is an absolute classic and considered one of the best mature anime of all time. The story revolves around the renowned neurosurgeon, Doctor Kenzou Tenma, who becomes famous for his skills.
Dr. Tenma faces a moral dilemma regarding one of his patients, and the anime takes you through a mix of drama, mystery, and even some horror as he navigates the complexities of his emotions. If you’re into thought-provoking stories, then Monster is a must-watch.
7. Mushishi
Mushishi is a really good slice of life anime that you’ll remember! It’s a classic from the mid-2000s and is considered one of the greatest anime shows ever.
The story follows Mushishi Ginko, who travels around a fantasy world, assisting regular people in dealing with magical creatures called Mushi. What’s cool about this anime is that each episode tells a complete and satisfying story while showing us what life is like for the characters. It’s definitely worth watching!
6. March Comes in Like a Lion
March Comes In Like A Lion is an awesome anime with high quality, good ratings, and lots of praise, making it one of the best shows to watch ever. It’s a slice of life story about Rei Kiriyama, who is a bit of a loner and keeps to himself.
Even though he’s a pro at playing shogi, his life lacks energy until he gets welcomed into the warm family of the Kawamoto Sisters. This anime takes its time and focuses on the characters, making it a great slice of life with more drama than comedy.
5. Hunter x Hunter
Hunter x Hunter is definitely one of the best anime ever, and it’s been around for a long time. This series has all the ingredients that make an anime great and unforgettable.
The story follows a boy named Gon who dreams of becoming a hunter. Hunters take on tough and risky tasks that most people wouldn’t dare to do. As Gon journeys, he befriends other hunters and faces challenges to become a skilled pro hunter. It’s a must-watch for anime fans!
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4. One man punch
In 2009, the manga One-Punch Man, created by Yusuke Murata, became super popular when it got an anime adaptation. It shook up the superhero and martial arts genres by blending comedy and action. When the anime came out, it quickly became one of the best ever.
One-Punch Man tells the tale of Saitama, an ordinary guy who, after facing a monster, gets thrilled by the fight. He decides to train and become a hero. The catch is, he trains so well that now he can defeat any opponent with just one punch. This leaves him feeling unsatisfied and bored since he can’t find a match.
3. Attack on Titan
As of 2023, Attack on Titan is showing its ended with its final season. It’s definitely proved to be one of the best anime ever, and we’re going to miss it a lot! The show is based on a manga with the same name, created by Hajime Isayama.
It follows the story of Eren Jager, who lives in a world enclosed by walls to stay safe from titans—giant creatures that want to eat humans. Eren, having lost his family to these titans, promises to wipe them all out. But as he goes on his journey, something unexpected happens, and he becomes what he despises the most.
2. Fullmetal the Alchemist: The Brotherhood
Another awesome anime to watch is Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood. The second version of the show is based on a manga by Hiromu Arakawa, and it came out between 2009 and 2010. Unlike the first one, Brotherhood is almost exactly like the manga.
It’s one of the most famous and iconic anime ever, and it’s about the adventures of two brothers, Alphonse and Edward Elric. They had a bad accident with alchemy, and as a result, Edward lost an arm and a leg, while Alphonse lost his whole body. The story follows their journey to find the Philosopher’s Stone, a mythical thing that could help them get their bodies back.
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At the top of the list for the best anime ever is Death Note, a legendary show that’s recommended for everyone because it’s so enjoyable to watch, no matter your age.
The story is about Light Yagami, the main character, who comes across a special book called a Death Note. He discovers that if he writes someone’s name in the Death Note, that person will die. Over time, he sees himself as a savior and starts writing the names of criminals to clean up the world.
See Also:
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