Japanese animation, better known as anime, continues to dominate screens and capture the hearts of viewers both in Japan and worldwide. From long-running series to new releases, the anime industry showcases a blend of captivating stories, stunning visuals, and diverse genres. Here’s a snapshot of the top anime TV rankings in Japan between May 5-11, offering insights into the shows that have captured the attention of Japanese audiences.
Top Anime TV Rankings in Japan
The following data represents the average household ratings in Japan’s Kanto region during the specified period. It’s important to note that these ratings don’t account for later viewings via recordings.
| Title | Station | Date | Time | Length | Average Household Rating |
|—|—|—|—|—|—|
| Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba Swordsmith Village Arc Tsunaida Kizuna-hen (marathon rerun part 2) | Fuji TV | May 5 (Sun) | 19:00 | 193 min | 8.1 |
| Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba Swordsmith Village Arc Tekishū-hen (marathon rerun part 1) | Fuji TV | May 4 (Sat) | 19:00 | 154 min | 6.7 |
| Sazae-san | Fuji TV | May 5 (Sun) | 18:30 | 30 min | 6.7 |
| Detective Conan | NTV | May 4 (Sat) | 18:00 | 30 min | 5.4 |
| Chibi Maruko-chan | Fuji TV | May 5 (Sun) | 18:00 | 30 min | 4.8 |
| That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime season 3 | NTV | May 3 (Fri) | 23:00 | 30 min | 3.0 |
| Crayon Shin-chan | TV Asahi | May 4 (Sat) | 16:30 | 30 min | 2.8 |
| Doraemon | TV Asahi | May 4 (Sat) | 17:00 | 30 min | 2.8 |
| My Hero Academia season 7 (premiere) | NTV | May 4 (Sat) | 17:30 | 30 min | 2.8 |
| One Piece | Fuji TV | May 5 (Sun) | 09:30 | 30 min | 2.6 |
Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba
The “Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba” Swordsmith Village Arc marathon reruns dominated the TV rankings, securing the top two positions. This series has proven to be a cultural phenomenon, captivating audiences with its engaging plot, stunning animation, and well-developed characters.
Sazae-san & Chibi Maruko-chan
“Sazae-san” and “Chibi Maruko-chan,” both airing on Fuji TV, continue to hold their positions as beloved classics, appealing to a wide audience. These shows have been staples of Japanese television for decades, depicting everyday life with humor and heart.
Detective Conan
“Detective Conan,” a long-running detective series, remains a popular choice among viewers. Known for its intricate mysteries and compelling characters, the anime has maintained a dedicated fanbase over the years.
That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime
“That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime” season 3 made it into the rankings, highlighting the isekai genre’s (stories about characters who are transported to or reborn in another world) continued popularity. The series combines elements of fantasy, adventure, and political intrigue, attracting a diverse audience.
Crayon Shin-chan & Doraemon
“Crayon Shin-chan” and “Doraemon,” both airing on TV Asahi, are enduring favorites among younger viewers and families. With their lighthearted humor and relatable characters, these anime have become cultural icons in Japan.
My Hero Academia
“My Hero Academia” season 7 premiered during this period, earning a solid rating and demonstrating the series’ ongoing popularity. The superhero anime has garnered a global following with its dynamic action sequences and inspiring themes of heroism.
One Piece
“One Piece,” one of the longest-running and most popular anime series of all time, continues to maintain a strong presence in the rankings. Known for its epic storytelling, vibrant characters, and vast world-building, “One Piece” has captivated fans for over two decades.
Anime Industry Trends
The Japanese anime industry is known for its innovation and ability to adapt to changing trends. Several key trends are shaping the anime landscape in 2024:
Streaming Dominance
Streaming platforms like Crunchyroll and Netflix have played a significant role in expanding the global reach of anime. These platforms offer a vast library of anime content, making it more accessible to international audiences.
Genre Diversity
The anime industry encompasses a wide range of genres, including action, romance, horror, slice-of-life, and science fiction. This diversity allows viewers to find anime that cater to their specific interests and preferences.
Adaptations
Many popular anime series are adaptations of manga, light novels, or video games. These adaptations often bring beloved stories to life with stunning animation and voice acting, attracting both existing fans and new viewers.
Global Appeal
Anime’s global appeal is undeniable, with a growing fanbase in various regions. The medium’s unique storytelling, diverse characters, and captivating visuals have resonated with audiences worldwide.
Anime Beyond TV
While TV rankings offer a glimpse into the popularity of anime series, the industry extends far beyond traditional television broadcasts. Anime films, original net animations (ONAs), and original video animations (OVAs) also play a significant role in the anime ecosystem.
Anime Films
Anime films have gained international recognition, with titles like “Spirited Away,” “Akira,” and “Howl’s Moving Castle” receiving critical acclaim and commercial success. These films often showcase stunning animation, complex storytelling, and memorable characters.
Original Net Animations (ONAs)
ONAs are anime series that are released directly on the internet, bypassing traditional television broadcasts. This format allows for greater creative freedom and experimentation, attracting a diverse range of creators and viewers.
Original Video Animations (OVAs)
OVAs are anime series that are released directly to home media, such as DVD and Blu-ray. These series often serve as side stories or continuations of popular anime franchises, catering to dedicated fans.
The anime industry continues to evolve, with new series, films, and formats emerging regularly. Whether through TV broadcasts, streaming platforms, or theatrical releases, anime remains a vibrant and influential force in the entertainment world.
