The Most Loved Anime in Japan, Ranked
Voting rules: Choose the anime you think is the most loved!
Updated on Apr 29, 2024 06:27
In Japan, the heart of anime culture, fans are often passionate about which series stand out as the best. With countless new and classic titles competing for attention, identifying the top favorites can be both a challenge and a thrill. A live ranking system harnesses the collective opinions of countless enthusiasts, providing a dynamic snapshot of what's trending in the anime scene.
By engaging with such a system, every fan holds the power to influence the rankings with their vote. This not only gives a voice to the anime community but also helps new fans find highly recommended series. Whether you're a seasoned anime veteran or new to the genre, your vote contributes to a broader appreciation and understanding of Japan's beloved anime culture.
What Is the Most Loved Anime in Japan?
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147votesThis beloved anime about a robotic cat from the future has been a favorite in Japan for decades. Its whimsical adventures and heartwarming themes have captured the hearts of generations of viewers.Doraemon is a beloved anime in Japan that has captured the hearts of both children and adults alike. It follows the story of a robotic cat named Doraemon, who travels back in time from the 22nd century to help a young boy named Nobita Nobi. Together, they navigate everyday challenges and adventures, using Doraemon's futuristic gadgets and inventions.
- Genre: Science fiction, Comedy
- Original Run: April 2, 1979 – March 25, 2005
- Episodes: 1,787 (excluding specials)
- Manga Volumes: 45 (1787 chapters)
- Theme Song: Doraemon no Uta (Doraemon's Theme)
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249votesThis long-running family sitcom is one of the most iconic anime in Japan. It depicts the everyday life of a suburban family and has become a cultural touchstone for many Japanese people.Sazae-san is a long-running anime series in Japan, known for its heartwarming and humorous storytelling. It revolves around the daily life of Sazae Fuguta, a cheerful wife and mother, and her family and friends.
- Genre: Slice of Life
- Original run: October 5, 1969 – ongoing
- Episodes: over 7,000
- Average episode length: 6 minutes
- Broadcast network: Fuji TV
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326votes
Anass_belghrib · CC BY-SA 4.0One Piece
Eiichiro OdaThis action-packed adventure series has captured the imaginations of fans around the world. Its colorful cast of characters, rich world-building, and epic story arcs have made it a fan favorite in Japan and beyond.One Piece is a highly popular anime and manga series created by Eiichiro Oda. It follows the adventures of Monkey D. Luffy and his crew as they search for the ultimate treasure known as One Piece, in order to become the next Pirate King. The series is set in a world of vast oceans and diverse islands, filled with intriguing characters, epic battles, and deep storytelling. With its unique blend of action, humor, and emotional moments, One Piece has captivated audiences worldwide.- Genre: Adventure, Action, Comedy, Drama, Fantasy
- Episodes: More than 1000
- Manga Volumes: Over 100
- Original Run: July 22, 1997 – present
- Animation Studio: Toei Animation
One Piece in other rankings- Position 1 of 10 in Most popular Shonen
- Position 3 of 10 in Most popular animes
- Position 3 of 10 in Most popular anime list
- Position 8 of 10 in Most popular AMV
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413votes
Dragon Ball
Akira ToriyamaThis classic anime about a martial artist with superhuman abilities has had a huge impact on Japanese popular culture. Its high-energy battles, memorable characters, and inspiring themes have made it a beloved classic.Dragon Ball is a popular Japanese anime and manga series that follows the story of Son Goku, a young Saiyan warrior on a journey to find the seven mystical Dragon Balls. Created by Akira Toriyama, it was originally serialized in Weekly Shonen Jump from 1984 to 1995.- Genre: Action, Adventure, Martial Arts, Comedy, Fantasy, Science Fiction
- Original Run: February 26, 1986 – January 31, 1996
- Number of Episodes: 153 (Dragon Ball); 291 (Dragon Ball Z); 64 (Dragon Ball GT); 167 (Dragon Ball Super)
- Number of Manga Chapters: 519
- Protagonist: Son Goku
Dragon Ball in other rankings- Position 3 of 10 in Most popular Dragon Ball series
- Position 3 of 10 in Most popular Shonen
- Position 5 of 10 in Most popular cartoon in Mexico
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511votes
Attack on Titan
Hajime IsayamaThis dark and gritty anime about a world overrun by flesh-eating giants has become a sensation in Japan and abroad. Its intense action, complex characters, and harrowing storyline have made it a must-watch for anime fans.Attack on Titan, also known as Shingeki no Kyojin, is a popular dark fantasy anime series set in a world where humanity lives inside cities surrounded by enormous walls to protect themselves from giant humanoid creatures called Titans. The story revolves around Eren Yeager and his friends who join the military to fight against the Titans and uncover the secrets behind their existence.- Genre: Action, Dark Fantasy, Post-Apocalyptic
- Original run: April 7, 2013 – Present
- Episodes: 75 (and counting)
- Manga: Written by Hajime Isayama
- Animation Studio: Wit Studio (seasons 1-3), MAPPA (season 4)
Attack on Titan in other rankings- Position 1 of 10 in Most popular animes
- Position 3 of 10 in Most popular cosplay
- Position 4 of 10 in Most popular new anime
- Position 4 of 10 in Most popular anime list
- Position 5 of 10 in Most popular AMV
- Position 5 of 10 in Most popular Shonen
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618votesThis coming-of-age story about a young ninja striving to become the strongest in his village has captured the hearts of many Japanese fans. Its mix of action, humor, and drama has made it a favorite for viewers of all ages.Naruto is a Japanese anime series that follows the adventures of Naruto Uzumaki, a young ninja who aims to become the Hokage, the strongest ninja in his village. The story is set in a fictional world where ninjas possess various abilities and fight against powerful enemies. Naruto's journey is filled with action, friendship, and personal growth as he faces challenges in his quest for recognition and to protect his loved ones.
- Genre: Action, Adventure, Fantasy
- Original Run: October 3, 2002 – February 8, 2007
- Episodes: 220
- Main Protagonist: Naruto Uzumaki
- Setting: Hidden Leaf Village, various other ninja villages
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712votes
Detective Conan
Gosho AoyamaThis long-running mystery series about a teenage detective who is transformed into a child has been a hit in Japan for over 25 years. Its clever cases, engaging characters, and intriguing plot twists have kept fans hooked for generations.Detective Conan, also known as Case Closed, is a popular anime series in Japan. It revolves around the story of Shinichi Kudo, a high school detective prodigy who was transformed into a child after being poisoned by a mysterious organization. Under the alias Conan Edogawa, he continues solving crimes while searching for clues to regain his original body.- Genre: Mystery, Crime, Detective, Thriller
- Original Run: January 8, 1996 - ongoing
- Episodes: Over 1000 episodes
- Manga Volumes: Over 100 volumes
- Main Protagonist: Shinichi Kudo (Conan Edogawa)
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85votes
Sailor Moon
Naoko TakeuchiThis iconic magical girl anime about a group of teenage girls who fight evil has been a staple of Japanese pop culture since the 1990s. Its empowering message, colorful characters, and catchy music have made it a beloved classic.Sailor Moon is a popular anime and manga series that follows the adventures of a young middle school student named Usagi Tsukino, who transforms into the superhero Sailor Moon to battle against the forces of evil. Alongside her fellow Sailor Guardians, Usagi protects the Earth and the galaxy from various villains while also dealing with everyday school life and personal relationships.- Genre: Magical girl, action, romance
- Original run: March 7, 1992 – February 8, 1997
- Episodes: 200 (including specials)
- Manga volumes: 18
- Main protagonist: Usagi Tsukino / Sailor Moon
Sailor Moon in other rankings- Position 1 of 10 in Most popular magical girl anime
- Position 2 of 10 in Most popular cosplay
- Position 2 of 10 in Most popular old-school anime
- Position 3 of 10 in Most popular Nendoroid
- Position 5 of 10 in Most beautiful character in Sailor Moon
- Position 6 of 10 in Most popular anime character in Japan
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92votes
Fullmetal Alchemist
Hiromu ArakawaThis epic fantasy anime about two brothers who use alchemy to try to bring their deceased mother back to life has captured the hearts of many Japanese fans. Its complex characters, intricate plot, and emotional depth have made it a standout in the genre.Fullmetal Alchemist is a popular anime series that follows the story of two brothers, Edward and Alphonse Elric, who use the power of alchemy to search for the Philosopher's Stone. Set in a fictional universe, the series blends elements of fantasy, action, and drama as the brothers encounter various challenges and epic battles in their quest to restore their bodies and uncover the secrets of alchemy.- Genre: Adventure, Fantasy, Drama, Action
- Number of Episodes: 64
- Original Run: October 4, 2003 – October 2, 2004
- Studio: Bones
- Main Characters: Edward Elric, Alphonse Elric, Roy Mustang, Winry Rockbell, Scar, Riza Hawkeye, Homunculi
Fullmetal Alchemist in other rankings- Position 7 of 10 in Most popular Shonen
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1010votesThis global phenomenon about a young boy who travels the world capturing and battling creatures has been a hit in Japan for over 20 years. Its cute characters, addictive gameplay, and pervasive merchandising have made it a cultural icon.Pokémon is a popular anime series that follows the adventures of a young trainer named Ash Ketchum and his loyal Pokémon companion, Pikachu. The series is set in a world where humans catch and train creatures called Pokémon to battle each other. Ash aspires to become a Pokémon Master by capturing and training different Pokémon species, battling Gym Leaders, and competing in various Pokémon leagues and tournaments. The series is known for its captivating storylines, memorable characters, and the underlying theme of friendship and determination.
- Genre: Adventure, fantasy, action
- First aired: April 1, 1997
- Original network: TV Tokyo
- Number of seasons: 23
- Number of episodes: 1,135 (as of September 2021)
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Ranking factors for loved anime
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PopularityMeasure the anime's popularity based on various indicators, such as TV ratings, social media presence, and number of fans. A popular anime in Japan is likely to be well-loved by the audience.
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Sales and MerchandiseAnalyze the sales of the anime series, including DVD/Blu-ray, manga, and other merchandise. High sales can be a strong indicator of the anime's success and love among fans.
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Critical ReceptionConsider the overall critical reception of the anime series, including reviews, awards, and accolades. Highly praised anime tends to be well-loved by the Japanese audience.
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Influence and LegacyDetermine the anime's impact on the industry and popular culture in Japan. An anime that is considered influential or has a lasting impact is likely well-loved by fans.
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Cultural RelevanceEvaluate the anime's connection to Japanese culture, history, and society. Animes that resonate with the Japanese audience in terms of themes and subject matter are likely to be highly appreciated.
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LongevityConsider the longevity of the anime series. A long-running series or a series with multiple seasons and adaptations can be a sign of its popularity and love among the Japanese audience.
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Character AppealLook at the popularity and appeal of the main characters in the series. Memorable and well-designed characters can contribute to the anime's success and love among fans.
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Animation QualityAssess the quality of the animation, including the art style and character designs. A visually appealing and high-quality animation is more likely to be well-loved by the audience.
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Storytelling and NarrativeAnalyze the depth and complexity of the storylines and the overall narrative structure. Engaging stories with relatable themes and well-developed plots are more likely to be well-received.
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Genre and DemographicsConsider the specific genres and target demographics. An anime that appeals to a wide range of audiences in Japan is more likely to be considered well-loved.
About this ranking
This is a community-based ranking of the most loved anime in Japan. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or Anime is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!
Statistics
- 1994 views
- 164 votes
- 10 ranked items
Voting Rules
A participant may cast an up or down vote for each Anime once every 24 hours. The rank of each Anime is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.
More information on most loved anime in japan
Anime culture has been ingrained in Japanese society for decades, with countless anime series captivating audiences all over the world. However, determining the most beloved anime in Japan is no easy feat, as the country is home to a vast array of anime genres and subcultures. From the early days of Astro Boy to the modern-day phenomenon of Demon Slayer, Japanese anime has continued to grow and evolve, captivating fans of all ages and backgrounds. Whether it's the heartwarming tales of Studio Ghibli or the action-packed adventures of Naruto, the world of anime is diverse and ever-expanding, making it an essential part of Japanese pop culture. So, which anime reigns supreme in Japan? Let's take a closer look at the most loved anime in the land of the rising sun.
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