Recently, Netflix has added some excellence additions of Japanese anime onto the platform. Definitely a “yay!” to many anime lovers around the world because these films are increasingly more difficult to stream on the internet nowadays.

          Netflix is a great way to explore some new anime with over 200 Japanese related films currently offered on Netflix. You are promised to have a great time being imbedded into Japanese culture in the comfort of your own home! In this blog, we have compiled a list of the Best Anime on Netflix in 2021, grab your snack and a cup of tea, and lets this anime marathon begins!

 

 

 

1. Demon Slayer

 

 

Demon Slayer is inspired by the Japanese manga of the same name by Koyoharu Gotouge, the anime is set in the Taisho period in Japan. In the anime, Taisho is the time where demons exist with human beings. Tanjiro Kamado, the main character finds that his family is killed by the attack of demons and his only survived sister has turned into a demon.

The demons are former humans who sold their humanity in exchange for power, they feed on humans and possess supernatural abilities such as super strength, magic and regeneration. Demons can only be killed if they're decapitated with weapons crafted from an alloy known as Sun Steel (Nichirin), injected with poison extracted from wisteria flowers, or exposed to sunlight. Tanjiro decides to become a demon slayer to restore the humanity and cure his sister from the curse.

 

 

 

2. Pokemon

 

Photo: animatestimes.com

 

The iconic yellow Pikachu that has become the face of Japanese anime. This long-running anime series has gained popularity worldwide due to its adorable characters as well as popularity in the gaming world. The season 1 of the anime series was first released in 1997 after releasing the original video game, and the anime is still ongoing till date. The story is about Satoshi (Ash), the main character who travels around the world with his partner Pikachu and other Pokémon.
          The anime is based on the popular Game Boy game “Pocket Monsters” where children raise a pocket monster and train them to fight other monsters. Satoshi explores the world with other Pokémon to improve their fighting skills and become the grand champions.

 

 

 

3. Neon Genesis Evangelion

 

 

Neon Genesis Evangelion is a Japanese anime series, created by Gainax, its first series began in 1995. The anime was written and directed by Hideaki Anno. The series revolve around the organisation called NERV, using large mechas called Evangelions to fight against monstrous beings called Angels. These mechas are piloted by several of the main characters, including Shinji Ikari, Asuka Sohryu, and Rei Ayanami.

While the initial episodes heavily focus on religious symbols in reference to the Bible, the later episodes dig deeper into the psyches of each character. 

 

 

 

 

4. Attack on Titan

 

 

One of an all-time classic Japanese animation, it was originally released as a manga in 2009, the first anime version was aired in 2013. It has ever since become one of the most well-known Japanese anime series of all time. A story where the giants rule the world. It is set in a world where humanity lives inside cities surrounded by three enormous walls that protect them from the gigantic man-eating humanoids referred to as Titans.

The huge wall with the height of 50 meters is to prevent invasion in exchange for freedom outside the wall. Eren Yeager, a 10-year-old boy who dreams of an unseen world on the other side of the wall, he vows to exterminate the Titans after a Titan brings about the destruction of his hometown and the death of his mother.

 

 

 

 

5. Fullmetal Alchemist

 

Photo: kids-station.com

 

Fullmetal Alchemist is a sci-fi anime that presents the rich brotherhood relationships, brilliant displays of light and magic, and an intense plot that will keep you in tune. After the cosmos punished the alchemist brothers Edward and Alphonse for attempting to resurrect their dead mother. As a result, the alchemist brothers lost parts of their bodies and they set off on an adventure seeking the philosopher’s stone to restore their deteriorating bodies.

          Comes in 64 episodes, although the plot is intensive and nerve-wracking, the anime balances its darkness with plenty of humous in each episode to lighten the mood.

 

 

 

 

6. Violet Evergarden

 

 

The famous Japanese animation. Studio Kyoto Animation released Violet Evergarden in 2018, a quality anime series based on the light novel. Violet is an orphaned former child soldier who was enlisted in the Leidenschaftlich army and fought in the war, where she was treated as nothing more than a weapon because of her extraordinary fighting capabilities. After the war, Violet became an Auto Memories Doll at the CH Postal Company, seeking to understand the meaning of the words "I love you," which was said to her by the person she holds dearest, Gilbert Bougainvillea, during the War's final leg.

 

 

 

7. The Melancholy of Suzumiya Haruhi

 

 

The Melancholy of Suzumiya Haruhi is based on a light Japanese novel that takes on the story of the extraordinary high school life. It follows the high school life of Haruhi Suzumiya, a young and active high school girl who get caught up in unusual antics with Kyon, Haruhi’s classmates. Mikuru, Yuki, and Itsuki were sent to monitor Haruhi, because she has a strange ability to destroy the universe and make a new one at her command. Their mission is to keep the current universe interesting for Haruhi, to avoid it being destroyed by her. It is a light anime that can be enjoyed by both adults and kids.

 

 

 

8. Gintama

 

 

Gintama is a Japanese anime series directed by Yoichi Fujita. The main characters, Gintoki, Shinpachi, and Kagura living in an alternate reality, where the Amanto, aliens from outer space, have invaded Earth and taken over Japan. As a result, a prohibition on swords has been established, and the samurai of Japan are treated with disregard as a consequence. However, Gintoki Sakata, still possesses the heart of the samurai. Him and his odd group of friends take on odd jobs in an alternate version of feudal Japan that has been conquered by aliens.

 

 

 

 

9. Ghost in the Shell

 

 

The first episode of Ghost in the Shell was aired in 2002. The story is set in 2030, when mankind has developed a technology where complete body transplants from flesh to machine is possible. Criminals use the new technology to lure victim into these dangerous crimes. Due to the increase in crime rates, the Japanese government has established section 9, a team of police unit to investigate these crimes. 

Section 9 Led by Daisuke Aramaki and Motoko Kusanagi, deals with such crimes over the entire social spectrum, usually with success. However, when faced with "The Laughing Man" a professional hacker, the team is thrown into a dangerous goose chase, following the hacker's trail as it leaves its mark all over Japan.

 

 

 

10. The Promised Neverland

 

 

Emma, an orphan living in Grace Field House, with other 37 other orphans. They lead a peaceful life, with food, comfortable beds, clean clothes, games and the love of their "Mom", Isabella. Their education is seen as an important part of their development, and Emma with her two best friends Norman and Ray, always excel in the regular exams.

 

The orphans are allowed complete freedom, except to venture beyond the perimeter wall or gate which separate the house from the outside world. One night, Conny is sent away to be "adopted", but Emma and Norman followed Conny. At the gate, they find Conny dead and discover the truth about their existence in what they thought was a wonderful orphanage. The reality is that they’re being raised as meat for demons. Emma and Norman plan with Ray to escape from Grace Field House with other children, but Norman is taken off to be "adopted". What will they do to save Norman?

 

 

 

11. Erased

 

 

Satoru Fujinuma, an aspiring manga writer who has an ability to travel back in time to prevent bad things from occurring. After the tragic death of his mother in their own home, Satoru Fujinuma is constantly thrown back in time to 18 years ago. After having to relive the life-threating incidents that have taken place. Satoru transformed into his elementary school-self, and he must find a way to prevent these incidents from repeating itself and save his mother.

A gripping drama driven by some brilliant animations that will keep you clicking that 'Next Episode' button. Erased has a slow and constant storyline but it will keep you in intrigue.

 

 

 

12. Kuroko’s Basketball

 

Photo: mangapedia.com

 

Kuroko’s Basketball is a sport inspired anime involving the adventure of the Teiko Junior High basketball team. The school team have won three seasons in a row, with five once-in-a generation players, called “The Generation of Miracles.” However, a legendary 6^th player had just returned from American, Taiga Kagami. After meeting Tetsuya Kuroko, Kagami found that Kuroko have no talent in basketball, however, his lack of skill allows him to pass the ball around without other team noticing.

Kuroko teamed up with Kagami to defeat the other members of the Miracle Generation, a battle of light (Kagami) and shadow (Kuroko) unfolds.

 

 

 

13. Death Note

 

Photo: ©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

 

Death Note is a popular anime among foreigners due to its strangely sinister plot. The series centred around a young man who discovered a supernatural notebook that can kill people once their name have been written in the notebook. The plot follows his attempt to create and lead a world cleansed of evil people using the Death Note.

          The plot plays out in 37 episodes, with Light Yagami a young man who resents crimes and corruption in the world. He murdered countless of people using his vicious notebook that dictate their deaths.

 

 

 

14. Your Lie in April

 

 

Your Lie in April is about a young pianist, Kousei. After losing his overbearing mother to a terminal illness, Kousei is unable to hear musical notes, which forced him to stop playing his beloved piano. A year later, Kousei falls in love with Kaori, a talented violinist who inspires him to play music again. Your Lie in April presents the true consequences of traumatic loss on children, the story is dictated through colourful abstract animations and classical music that will touch your heart.

 

 

 

15. Code Geass

 

 

Code Geass is a popular anime series, it started with the first season which was released in 2006-2007. The story takes place after the Holy Britannian Empire's conquest of Japan on August 10th, and it is now called area 11. Destructive robotic weapons called Knightmares are used to ensure control over the civilians. The black prince, Lelouch vi Britannia stands out in opposition to the gigantic Holy Britannian Empire after granted the supernatural power named Geass.

 

 

 

 

16. Naruto

 

 

An all-time classic, whether you are an anime fan or not, you sure have heard of Naruto! The anime series finally came to an end in 2017 after running for over 15 years. The story revolves around Naruto Uzumaki, a village boy from Hidden Leaf Village. Naruto had a dream of becoming the best ninja in the village, following the name of the chief ninja of the village, Hokage. However, everyone underestimates his ability, he is set to prove everyone wrong. Naruto and other Ninja characters battle with various Ninja techniques using the chakra energy. This is a great anime to watch to be introduced into the magical world of Japanese animation.

 

 

 

 

17. Once Punch Man

 

 

Once Punch Man is a story of Saitama, a superhero who can defeat any opponent with his single punch. He attempts to find a worthy opponent that can put up a genuine battle against his powerful strength. Saitama is a unique hero, and because of his ability to easily defeat enemies, he finds his power pointless and goes on an extraordinary adventure to find a worthy opponent.

         

 

 

 

18. Hunter X Hunter

 

 

A story of Gon, a young boy who lives on Whale Island and his dream is to become the same "hunter" as his father once was. Gon sets out to become a licensed professional hunter who specializes in fantastical pursuits such as locating rare or unidentified animal species, treasure hunting, surveying unexplored enclaves. He bets his life on the challenge of the "unknown", and met Kurapika, Leorio, and Killua who are aiming to pass the same hunter exam. The anime reveals the series of challenges confronting him.

 

  

 

19. Haikyu

 

 

Haikyu!! Is a Japanese manga illustrated by Haruichi Furudate. The story follows Shoyo Hinata, a boy who was fascinated by the volleyball sport and became a great volleyball player despite his small frame. In the first and last official game of junior high school, where he finally participated in the headwind, Hinata's team was defeated by Tobio Kageyama, a genius player nicknamed "King on the Court". Each season unfolds his journey to become a great volleyball player, as well as his revenge on Tobio Kageyama. It is a great sport anime series that is highly rated.

 

 

 

20. Clannad

 

 

Clannad is less known worldwide, so if you’re finding a unique anime to watch, this one will get you hooked. Clannad is a Kyoto Animation’s masterpiece that is recommended for all types of anime fans. The story is about Tomoya Okazaki, a third-year high school student who is giving up on his school life. The first part of the anime released in 2007-2008, the story follows the daily life of Tomoya and heroine Nagisa in their ordinary high school routine. The second part released in 2008-2009, this is where it reaches the climax and become more entertaining. It has 44 main episodes, definitely worth a watch!

 

 

 

21. Jojo’s Bizarre Adventure

 

 

The universe of JoJo's Bizarre Adventure is a reflection of the real world with the existence of supernatural forces and beings. In this setting, some people are capable of transforming their inner spiritual power into a Stand; another significant form of energy is Hamon, a martial arts technique that allows its user to focus bodily energy into sunlight via controlled breathing. The narrative of JoJo's Bizarre Adventure is split into different parts with independent story lines and different characters. The 8 different parts will take you onto a great adventure that is totally worth the watch!

 

 

 

22. Jujutsu Kaisen

 

 

Jujutsu is written by Gege Akutami, surrounding the character Yuji Itadori, who is an unnaturally fit high school student living in Sendai with his grandfather. He regularly avoids the school track team due to the time commitment required for it, despite his innate talent for the sport.

Yuji decided to join the Occult Research Club; due to the freedom it gives him. The turning point is where his grandfather instils two powerful messages within Yuji on his deathbed, he told Yuji: "because you are strong, always help people" and "die surrounded by people". These two ideas seemingly stem from his grandfather's own regrets. The anime unfolds Yuji journey to follow his grandfather wishes.

 

 

 

23. My Hero Academia

 

 

My Hero Academia is about a young boy Izuku Midoriya and other heroes fighting against other Villains by using their superpowers quirks. My Hero Academia is also popular among international anime fans since the anime is inspired by American style Superhero comic rather than classic Japanese anime. The series focuses on Izuku Midoriya, a young man who dreams of becoming a hero despite being bullied by his violent childhood friend Katsuki Bakugo for lacking a Quirk.

 

 

 

24. Nanatsu no Taizai

 

 

Nanatsu no Taizai or also known as “The Seven Deadly Sins” was adapted into an anime television series in 2014. The story is about a band of knights in the land of Britannia who had disbanded ten years earlier after being framed for plotting a coup of the Liones Kingdom.

They are the strongest and cruellest order of Holy Knights in the Kingdom of Lioness. Formed by seven brutal criminals, who had all been convicted for heinous crimes and had carved the symbols of seven beasts onto their bodies. After having been framed for murdering the Great Holy Knight, they were indefinitely disbanded, as well as named as criminals. They are the main protagonists of the series.

 

 

 

25. Tokyo Ghoul

 

 

Tokyo Ghoul is a popular dark fantasy manga published on the Weekly Young Jump in 2011-2014, it was adapted into an anime in 2014. The suspense horror/dark fantasy story is set in Tokyo, with monsters that eat people, where the city of Tokyo is living under fear of the mysterious threat of “Ghoul”. Kaneki, an ordinary college student who loves reading, meets Rize, at a coffee shop. Little does he know that his fate will change overnight. 

 

 

 

26. Cells at work

 

 

Cells at work is a short anime series with only 13 episodes aired so far, with season 2 set to be released. The story follows the world of a human body, it is represented as cities with roughly 37.2 trillion anthropomorphic cells that work together in harmony to function the body. Struggling to remove and resist against pathogenic cells such as germs and bacteria from invading the body.

A red blood cell who is new to her job, AE3803 and a brutal white blood cell who works in the immune system, U-1146 are presented as protagonists. The series shows fascinating working parts of human body that allows us to function the way we do.

 

 

 

 

Photo

Shingeki