The 10 Most Popular Japanese Anime Around the World
Japanese anime has captivated audiences across the globe with its vibrant art, emotional storytelling, and unique cultural influence. From heroic adventures to heartwarming slice-of-life tales, anime resonates with fans of all ages and backgrounds. In this article, we’ll dive into ten of the most popular anime worldwide, exploring what makes them stand out and why they continue to inspire millions.
1. Naruto / Naruto: Shippuden
©岸本斉史 スコット／集英社・テレビ東京・ぴえろ
One of the most beloved shonen series, Naruto tells the story of Naruto Uzumaki, a boy ostracized for housing a powerful beast within him, yet determined to become Hokage, the strongest ninja leader of his village.
What makes Naruto so compelling is the way it balances epic battles with deep emotional arcs. Themes of friendship, perseverance, and overcoming prejudice resonate universally. Fans around the world identify with Naruto’s struggles and admire his unbreakable determination. The large cast of supporting characters, each with unique backstories and motivations, adds layers of depth. Combined with memorable villains like Orochimaru and Pain, plus iconic fights such as Naruto vs. Sasuke, the series set the gold standard for modern shonen anime. Its legacy continues with the sequel series Boruto.
2. One Piece
©尾田栄一郎／集英社・フジテレビ・東映アニメーション
Eiichiro Oda’s One Piece is more than just an anime; it’s a cultural phenomenon. Following Monkey D. Luffy and his crew of Straw Hat Pirates on their quest for the ultimate treasure, the series blends comedy, adventure, and emotional storytelling.
The real charm of One Piece lies in its world-building. Each island introduces new cultures, landscapes, and philosophies, creating an endlessly diverse adventure. The Straw Hat crew themselves embody themes of freedom, loyalty, and chasing impossible dreams. Emotional arcs such as Robin’s heartbreaking “I want to live!” moment or Ace’s tragic fate have left global audiences in tears. With over 1,000 episodes and counting, One Piece shows no sign of slowing down, and its live-action Netflix adaptation has further boosted its worldwide appeal.
3. Dragon Ball Z
©バードスタジオ／集英社・東映アニメーション
Few anime have shaped pop culture as powerfully as Dragon Ball Z. The story follows Goku and his friends as they battle ever-stronger foes, from Vegeta to Frieza, Cell, and Majin Buu.
What sets DBZ apart is its explosive energy. The battles are legendary, introducing concepts like Super Saiyan transformations and planet-shattering attacks that redefined anime action. Beyond the spectacle, DBZ champions perseverance and the spirit of self-improvement—values that resonate strongly worldwide. Its influence is evident in everything from modern anime like Naruto to global franchises such as Marvel and even professional sports, where athletes cite Goku as inspiration. The iconic “Kamehameha” has become a cultural symbol recognizable even to non-anime fans.
4. Attack on Titan (Shingeki no Kyojin)
©諫山創／講談社「進撃の巨人」制作委員会
Attack on Titan revolutionized anime with its dark, intense story of humanity fighting for survival against terrifying Titans. Eren Yeager and his comrades in the Survey Corps battle not just monstrous enemies, but also political conspiracies and moral dilemmas.
Its appeal lies in its unpredictability and emotional gravity. Unlike typical shonen, Attack on Titan confronts viewers with harsh realities—sacrifice, betrayal, and the cost of freedom. The fast-paced, aerial combat using ODM gear set a new standard for action sequences, while the intricate world-building and shocking plot twists kept audiences hooked. Themes of human resilience and questioning the nature of good and evil made it an international hit, solidifying its place as one of the most influential anime of the past decade.
5. Demon Slayer (Kimetsu no Yaiba)
©吾峠呼世晴／集英社・アニプレックス・ufotable
In recent years, Demon Slayer has skyrocketed to global fame, thanks to its breathtaking animation and emotional storytelling. The series follows Tanjiro Kamado, a kind-hearted boy who becomes a demon slayer after his family is slaughtered and his sister Nezuko is turned into a demon.
The anime’s stunning visuals, produced by Ufotable, are among the best ever seen in the medium. Every battle feels like a moving painting, blending fluid animation with traditional Japanese aesthetics. But beyond its artistry, Demon Slayer shines for its heartfelt story about family bonds, resilience, and compassion. Each demon carries a tragic past, making the battles emotionally complex rather than purely heroic. The 2020 film Mugen Train became Japan’s highest-grossing movie of all time and broke international box office records, proving its global impact.
6. Fullmetal Alchemist
©荒川弘／鋼の錬金術師製作委員会・MBS
Often hailed as one of the greatest anime ever, Fullmetal Alchemist tells the story of brothers Edward and Alphonse Elric, who commit the forbidden act of human transmutation and must face the consequences.
The anime blends philosophy, action, and emotional drama seamlessly. It explores themes of sacrifice, the value of human life, and the pursuit of truth. The world-building is rich, with alchemy serving as both a magical system and a metaphor for balance and morality. Its tightly woven plot, filled with mystery and political intrigue, keeps viewers captivated from start to finish. What makes it timeless is its ability to balance moments of humor and warmth with devastating tragedy, leaving a profound emotional impact on audiences worldwide.
7. My Hero Academia (Boku no Hero Academia)
©堀越耕平／集英社・僕のヒーローアカデミア製作委員会
Set in a world where most people are born with superpowers called “Quirks,” My Hero Academia follows Izuku Midoriya, a powerless boy who inherits the world’s greatest hero’s abilities.
The anime resonates strongly with international audiences thanks to its mix of superhero tropes and classic shonen storytelling. It’s essentially the Marvel Cinematic Universe of anime, delivering high-octane action while exploring the meaning of heroism. The series emphasizes not just flashy battles, but also character growth, teamwork, and the struggles of young heroes finding their path. Villains like Shigaraki add moral complexity, challenging the line between justice and revenge. With a strong global fanbase and widespread cosplay culture, MHA has cemented its place among modern anime giants.
8. Death Note
©大場つぐみ・小畑健／集英社・VAP・マッドハウス・NTV・D.N.ドリームパートナーズ
A psychological thriller unlike any other, Death Note follows Light Yagami, a genius student who discovers a notebook that allows him to kill anyone by writing their name. His battle of wits against the enigmatic detective L is one of anime’s most iconic rivalries.
What makes Death Note so captivating is its moral ambiguity. It asks the chilling question: what would you do if you had the power of life and death? The tension between Light’s godlike ambitions and L’s relentless pursuit keeps viewers on edge. With its blend of mystery, suspense, and ethical dilemmas, the anime appeals to audiences beyond traditional anime fans, even inspiring Hollywood and live-action adaptations. Its philosophical depth and unpredictable twists ensure its continued relevance in global pop culture.
9. Neon Genesis Evangelion
©庵野秀明・GAINAX・カラー
A groundbreaking classic, Neon Genesis Evangelion redefined anime with its blend of mecha battles, psychological depth, and existential themes. Shinji Ikari, a reluctant pilot of the Evangelion unit, faces not only monstrous Angels but also his own inner turmoil.
At its core, Evangelion is more than giant robots fighting monsters—it’s a meditation on human loneliness, identity, and the search for meaning. Its innovative direction, complex symbolism, and haunting soundtrack set a new standard for anime as an art form. The series shocked audiences with its unconventional ending, sparking debates and academic analyses worldwide. Even decades later, Evangelion remains a cultural touchstone, influencing creators in anime, film, and video games alike.
10. Jujutsu Kaisen
©芥見下々／集英社・呪術廻戦製作委員会
The story follows Yuji Itadori, an ordinary high schooler who swallows a cursed object—the finger of the legendary demon Ryomen Sukuna—and becomes bound to its terrifying power. As a student at Tokyo Jujutsu High, Yuji fights alongside classmates against monstrous curses while grappling with the meaning of life, death, and sacrifice.
The anime is praised worldwide for its breathtaking fight choreography, horror-inspired visuals, and emotionally rich storytelling. Its mix of dark themes and lighthearted humor creates a perfect balance that resonates with international audiences. The dynamic mentor-student relationship between Yuji and Gojo Satoru has also become one of anime’s most celebrated pairings.
Since its release in 2020, Jujutsu Kaisen has topped streaming charts in North America and Europe, and its movie, Jujutsu Kaisen 0, broke box office records globally. With its universal themes of courage, friendship, and resilience—wrapped in Japanese folklore-inspired aesthetics—Jujutsu Kaisen has secured its place as one of the most influential modern anime worldwide.
Summary
From epic adventures like One Piece to thought-provoking thrillers like Death Note, these ten anime demonstrate the incredible range and global appeal of Japanese animation. Each series has left a lasting mark not only on anime culture but also on entertainment worldwide. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or new to the medium, exploring these titles offers a window into the creativity and heart that make anime so beloved.