Top 10 Greatest Anime of All Time According to Japanese Fans

Anime is a vital part of Japanese pop culture that captivates audiences worldwide. Over the years, some series have become timeless classics loved across generations. Based on surveys and popularity polls in Japan, here are the top 10 greatest anime ever according to Japanese fans:

1. Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood

Often ranking at the top, this anime follows the brothers Edward and Alphonse Elric on their quest to restore their bodies through alchemy. Its solid plot with deep philosophical meaning and satisfying ending make it a masterpiece.

2. Attack on Titan (Shingeki no Kyojin)

Since debuting in 2013, Hajime Isayama’s dark, epic story of humanity’s fight against Titans has been hugely influential, widely regarded as the most impactful anime of the modern era.

3. Neon Genesis Evangelion

Aired in 1995, this series reshaped anime with its mix of mecha action and deep psychological themes. Evangelion remains a visionary classic that shaped Japan’s otaku culture.

4. Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba

Ufotable’s stunning adaptation became a global phenomenon. The story of Tanjiro and Nezuko’s brother-sister bond and demon battles is beloved by all ages. Its movie became Japan’s highest-grossing box office hit.

5. One Piece

Running for over two decades, this adventure of Luffy and his Straw Hat crew seeking the ultimate treasure symbolizes friendship, dreams, and childhood memories for many Japanese fans.

6. Spirited Away

Though a film, this Studio Ghibli classic won the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature and is the most iconic anime movie ever, with a magical world and profound moral lessons loved across generations.

7. Naruto

Naruto’s tale of a ninja aspiring to be Hokage embodies values of hard work, friendship, and sacrifice, cementing its place as a top shonen anime in Japan.

8. Dragon Ball

Akira Toriyama’s classic has been a huge influence since the 1980s, with iconic battles of Goku and Vegeta introducing many to the shonen genre.

9. Detective Conan

Running for over 25 years, the mystery adventures of Shinichi Kudo transformed into Conan Edogawa keep audiences hooked. The yearly movies are top box office hits in Japan.

10. Gintama

Despite being a comedy, Gintama is considered one of the best for blending hilarious parody with emotional drama, boasting one of Japan’s most loyal fanbases.

The Global Impact of Japanese Anime

These titles are not only popular in Japan but have reached audiences worldwide, introducing Japanese culture on a global scale. From classics like Dragon Ball and Evangelion to modern hits like Demon Slayer and Attack on Titan, the enduring power of Japanese anime shines brightly.