25 Best Historical Anime: Set in Iconic Eras of Japan and Beyond

Vikings. Revenge. Epic battles. And… Honor.

Vinland Saga takes you to the harsh world of Viking era, following Thorfinn, a young warrior seeking vengeance against the man who killed his father.

As he navigates the brutal world of Norse warfare, he encounters legendary figures and faces existential questions about life, violence, and purpose.

This isn’t just about revenge, Vinland Saga explores themes of war, honor, and personal growth.

With stunning animation and historical depth, it’s a gripping journey through the Viking age.

It’s brutal yet beautiful, a true gem for fans of historical epics.

Vinland Saga info (MAL):

• Alternative Title: N/A
• Episodes: 24
• Released: Summer 2019
• Studios: Wit Studio
• Genres: Action, Adventure, Drama
• Themes: Gore, Historical
• Score: 8.76 (MAL), 8.8 (IMDb)

Watch Vinland Saga trailer:

If you’re into large-scale battles and political intrigue, Kingdom is perfect for you.

Set during China’s Warring States period, the story follows Xin, a war orphan who dreams of becoming a great general.

Through sheer perseverance and skill, he rises through the ranks in a world of ruthless warlords and shifting alliances.

The anime brings the brutality of ancient warfare to life, with massive battles, intense strategy, and fascinating historical figures.

It’s a gripping war epic that blends history with shonen-style storytelling.

Kingdom info (MAL):

• Alternative Title: N/A
• Episodes: 38
• Released: Summer 2012
• Studios: Pierrot
• Genres: Action
• Themes: Historical, Military
• Score: 7.89 (MAL), 8.7 (IMDb)

Set in ancient imperial China, The Apothecary Diaries offers a refreshing take on palace intrigue.

The story follows Maomao, a young herbalist forced to work in the imperial place. Using her knowledge of medicine, she uncovers secrets and solves mysteries while navigating the dangerous politics of the court.

With its rich historical setting, strong female lead, and fascinating storytelling, this anime is a must-watch for history lovers who enjoy intrigue and clever problem-solving.

Also, this anime is known for its slow-burn romance between the lovable couple Jinshi and Maomao. So, if you enjoy romance type of anime, you might enjoy it as well.

The Apothecary Diaries info (MAL):

• Alternative Title: Kusuriya no Hitorigoto
• Episodes: 24
• Released: Fall 2023
• Studios: OLM, TOHO animation STUDIO
• Genres: Drama, Mystery
• Themes: Historical, Medical
• Score: 8.88 (MAL), 8.5 (IMDb)

Watch The Apothecary Diaries trailer:

If you love underdog stories with a historical twist, The Elusive Samurai is a must-watch.

Set during Japan’s turbulent Muromachi period, the anime follows Hojo Tokiyuki, a young noble whose family is betrayed and massacred.

Unlike typical battle-hardened warriors, Tokiyuki’s main skill is… running away. But don’t underestimate him. His wit, allies, and determination make for an exciting underdog story.

It’s a tale of survival, resilience, and revenge, with plenty of action-packed moments as Tokiyuki grows into his role as a leader.

The anime masterfully portrays the political turmoil of the era while delivering a fresh and exciting take on samurai lore.

The Elusive Samurai info (MAL):

• Alternative Title: Nige Jouzu no Wakagimi
• Episodes: 12
• Released: Summer 2024
• Studios: CloverWorks
• Genres: Adventure, Comedy
• Themes: Historical, Samurai
• Score: 7.81 (MAL), 7.3 (IMDb)

Watch The Elusive Samurai trailer:

This classic needs no introduction.

Set in the Meiji era, Rurouni Kenshin follows Himura Kenshin, a former assassin known as the “Battosai,” who now seeks redemption by protecting the weak without killing.

But his past isn’t so easily left behind, as old enemies and new conflicts constantly test his resolve.

The anime beautifully captures the transition from Japan’s samurai-dominated past to its modernized future, making it both a historical and character-driven masterpiece.

With thrilling sword fights, deep character development, and historical themes of change and redemption, Rurouni Kenshin remains one of the most beloved historical anime ever.

Rurouni Kenshin info (MAL):

• Alternative Title: Rurouni Kenshin: Meiji Kenkaku Romantan
• Episodes: 94
• Released: Winter 1996
• Studios: Gallop, Studio Deen
• Genres: Action, Comedy, Romance
• Themes: Historical, Samurai
• Score: 8.28 (MAL), 8.5 (IMDb)

Imagine famous historical warriors, like Oda Nobunaga, Joan of Arc, and Hannibal, thrown into a fantasy world and forced to fight in a chaotic war. That’s Drifters in a nutshell.

It’s historical fanfiction at its best, blending actual historical personalities with thrilling action and dark humor.

If you love the idea of legendary figures clashing in an alternate world, this one’s for you.

Drifters info (MAL):

• Alternative Title: N/A
• Episodes: 12
• Released: Fall 2016
• Studios: Hoods Entertainment
• Genres: Action, Adventure, Comedy, Fantasy
• Themes: Adult Cast, Gore, Historical, Isekai, Military, Samurai
• Score: 7.88 (MAL), 7.6 (IMDb)

Blending alternate history with supernatural twist, Saga of Tanya the Evil is a unique war story set during a fictionalized version of World War I.

The protagonist, Tanya, is a ruthless soldier with the mind of a modern-day businessman, reborn in an alternate version of wartime Europe.

To survive, she becomes a “devil” warrior, using military strategy and brute strength to defy fate (or god).

The anime is equal parts thrilling and satirical, offering sharp commentary on war and ambition. It’s a bold and unforgettable take on historical storytelling.

If you enjoy military strategy, war stories, and a bit of dark humor, this anime offers a fresh take on history.

Saga of Tanya the Evil info (MAL):

• Alternative Title: Youjo Senki
• Episodes: 12
• Released: Winter 2017
• Studios: Nut
• Genres: Action, Fantasy
• Themes: Isekai, Military, Reincarnation
• Score: 7.96 (MAL), 7.6 (IMDb)

Switching from Japan to America, Baccano! is a wild, fast-paced crime story set during Prohibition in the 1920s.

It follows multiple characters, gangsters, thieves, alchemists, and even immortals, whose lives intertwine in chaotic and violent ways.

The anime jumps between timelines and perspectives, keeping you glued to the screen as you piece together the mystery.

While not strictly historical, it uses its setting brilliantly to add depth and intrigue.

Baccano! info (MAL):

• Alternative Title: N/A
• Episodes: 13
• Released: Summer 2007
• Studios: Brain’s Base
• Genres: Action, Mystery, Supernatural
• Themes: Adult Cast, Historical, Organized Crime
• Score: 8.35 (MAL), 8.2 (IMDb)

Set in Edo-period Japan, Hell’s Paradise combines historical drama with supernatural horror.

The story follows Gabimaru, along with criminals and executioners, on a deadly mission to retrieve the elixir of immortality from a mysterious island.

With stunning fights and deep themes of mortality, this anime blends suspense with a haunting atmosphere. Hell’s Paradise delivers intense action, eerie horror, and rich folklore in a historical setting.

Fans of Dororo or Vinland Saga will love its mix of brutal combat, emotion, and historical depth.

Hell’s Paradise info (MAL):

• Alternative Title: Jigokuraku
• Episodes: 13
• Released: Spring 2023
• Studios: MAPPA
• Genres: Action, Adventure, Supernatural
• Themes: Gore, Historical, Samurai
• Score: 8.09 (MAL), 8.1 (IMDb)

What do you get when you mix Edo-period Japan with hip-hop? A wildly fun samurai road trip!

Samurai Champloo follows the unlikely trio of Mugen (a wild, freestyle fighter), Jin (a disciplined samurai), and Fuu (a determined girl searching for the “samurai who smells of sunflowers”).

Their journey is packed with stylish sword fights, historical references, and an unforgettable soundtrack.

While not historically accurate in a strict sense, the anime beautifully captures the spirit of samurai-era Japan with a fresh, unconventional twist.

Samurai Champloo info (MAL):

• Alternative Title: N/A
• Episodes: 26
• Released: Spring 2004
• Studios: Manglobe
• Genres: Action, Adventure, Comedy
• Themes: Historical, Samurai
• Score: 8.51 (MAL), 8.5 (IMDb)

Dark, tragic, and deeply rooted in Japanese folklore, Dororo is set in the Sengoku period.

The story follows Hyakkimaru, a young warrior whose body was sacrificed to demons by his power-hungry father.

As he embarks on a journey to reclaim them, he meets Dororo, a scrappy thief with a big heart.

The anime blends folklore with real history, making for a beautifully tragic and action-packed experience. It’s dark, atmospheric, and full of supernatural thrills.

Dororo info (MAL):

• Alternative Title: N/A
• Episodes: 24
• Released: Winter 2019
• Studios: Tezuka Productions, MAPPA
• Genres: Action, Adventure, Fantasy
• Themes: Historical, Mythology, Samurai
• Score: 8.25 (MAL), 8.2 (IMDb)

Inspired by Persian history, The Heroic Legend of Arslan is an epic war story filled with strategy, betrayal, and grand battles.

It follows Prince Arslan, a young prince forced to flee his kingdom after a devastating betrayal.

As he fights to reclaim his rightful throne, he gains loyal allies, endures betrayal, and matures into a true leader.

The anime blends war, strategy, and personal growth with stunning animation and emotional depth.

If you love large-scale warfare, brilliant tactics, and compelling character development, this anime is a must-watch.

The Heroic Legend of Arslan info (MAL):

• Alternative Title: Arslan Senki
• Episodes: 25
• Released: Spring 2015
• Studios: SANZIGEN, LIDENFILMS
• Genres: Action, Adventure, Drama, Fantasy
• Themes: Historical, Military
• Score: 7.65 (MAL), 7.5 (IMDb)

History meets adventure in Golden Kamuy, an anime set in post-Meiji Restoration Japan.

The story follows Saichi “Immortal” Sugimoto, a war veteran searching for hidden Ainu gold in Hokkaido. Along the way, he teams up with Asirpa, a young Ainu girl with exceptional survival skills.

Their adventure is packed with intense fights, hilarious moments, and fascinating historical details about Japan’s indigenous people.

The anime is a fascinating blend of historical action, humor, and cultural exploration, offering a rare look into Ainu traditions and the harsh wilderness of northern Japan.

It’s both educational and wildly entertaining!

Golden Kamuy info (MAL):

• Alternative Title: N/A
• Episodes: 12
• Released: Spring 2018
• Studios: Geno Studio
• Genres: Action, Adventure
• Themes: Adult Cast, Historical, Military
• Score: 7.88 (MAL), 8.0 (IMDb)

Set in Victorian England, Black Butler follows Ciel Phantomhive, a young noble and the Queen’s “watchdog.” With the help of his mysterious demon butler, Sebastian, he solves crimes in London.

While it mixes supernatural elements with historical settings, the anime does a great job of portraying the Victorian era’s social structures, aesthetics, and mysteries.

With its lush visuals, witty dialogue, and dark undertones, the anime strikes a perfect balance between elegance and eeriness.

If you like gothic-style storytelling with history as a backdrop, Black Butler is a fantastic choice.

Black Butler info (MAL):

• Alternative Title: Kuroshitsuji
• Episodes: 24
• Released: Fall 2008
• Studios: A-1 Pictures
• Genres: Action, Mystery, Supernatural
• Themes: Historical, Mythology
• Score: 7.65 (MAL), 7.6 (IMDb)

If you prefer historical anime with a romantic touch, Emma is a beautifully crafted love story set in 19th-century England.

It tells the tale of Emma, a humble maid, and William, a young aristocrat, whose love is challenged by class differences and societal expectations.

Unlike most historical anime that focus on war or action, Emma excels in portraying the subtleties of Victorian life from the fashion to the social customs. Perfect for fans of period dramas.

Emma: A Victorian Romance info (MAL):

• Alternative Title: Eikoku Koi Monogatari Emma
• Episodes: 12
• Released: Spring 2005
• Studios: Pierrot
• Genres: Drama, Romance
• Themes: Adult Cast, Historical
• Score: 7.61 (MAL), 7.6 (IMDb)

Step into the grandeur of the French Revolution with The Rose of Versailles.

This classic historical anime follows Lady Oscar, a woman raised as a man to serve in the royal guard, as she navigates court intrigue and political turmoil.

The anime explores themes of gender, power, and revolution while depicting the lavish yet fragile world of Marie Antoinette’s court.

With its rich storytelling, emotional drama, and stunning historical detail, it’s a must-watch for fans of historical epics.

The Rose of Versailles info (MAL):

• Alternative Title: Versailles no Bara
• Episodes: 40
• Released: Fall 1979
• Studios: Tokyo Movie Shinsha
• Genres: Drama, Romance
• Themes: Crossdressing, Historical, Military
• Score: 8.34 (MAL), 8.3 (IMDb)

A poetic and beautifully animated retelling of the fall of the Heike clan, one of the most tragic and influential events in Japanese history.

The Heike Story is based on The Tale of the Heike, a famous historical epic that captures the rise and fall of the Taira (Heike) family during the Genpei War.

With stunning visuals, emotional storytelling, and a haunting soundtrack, this anime feels like watching history come to life through art.

It’s a must-watch for history lovers who appreciate a more artistic and reflective approach.

The Heike Story info (MAL):

• Alternative Title: Heike Monogatari
• Episodes: 11
• Released: Winter 2022
• Studios: Science SARU
• Genres: Drama, Supernatural
• Themes: Historical, Samurai
• Score: 7.78 (MAL), 7.5 (IMDb)

A unique take on historical storytelling, Katanagatari is set in the Edo period but focuses on a stylized, dialogue-heavy adventure.

The story follows Shichika, the last heir of a forgotten sword-fighting style, and Togame, a strategist on a mission to collect twelve legendary swords.

Instead of fast-paced action, the anime unfolds like a beautifully crafted storybook, with deep conversations, philosophical themes, and an eye-catching art style.

Katanagatari info (MAL):

• Alternative Title: N/A
• Episodes: 12
• Released: Winter 2010
• Studios: White Fox
• Genres: Action, Adventure, Romance
• Themes: Historical, Martial Arts
• Score: 8.30 (MAL), 7.8 (IMDb)

Shigurui is not for the faint of heart. Shigurui is a brutal and visceral portrayal of samurai duels in Japan’s Edo period.

The story revolves around two rival swordsmen competing for the title of official instructor to a local lord.

The animation is raw and stylized, emphasizing the violence and intensity of their battles. Every fight is slow, methodical, and painfully realistic. The tension is almost unbearable, and the violence is as raw as it gets.

If you want a historical anime that captures the sheer brutality of the samurai era, Shigurui is a masterpiece.

Shigurui: Death Frenzy info (MAL):

• Alternative Title: N/A
• Episodes: 12
• Released: Summer 2007
• Studios: Madhouse
• Genres: Action, Drama, Suspense
• Themes: Adult Cast, Gore, Historical, Martial Arts, Psychological, Samurai
• Score: 7.35 (MAL), 7.7 (IMDb)

One of the most heartbreaking anime films ever made, Grave of the Fireflies is a realistic, gut-wrenching story about two siblings struggling to survive in Japan during World War II.

Unlike most historical anime that focus on warriors or adventure, this film depicts the raw human suffering of war, showing its impact on innocent civilians.

While it’s emotionally heavy, its message about the importance of family and humanity resonates deeply.

It’s a must-watch, but prepare for an emotional experience.

Grave of the Fireflies info (MAL):

• Alternative Title: Hotaru no Haka
• Episodes: 1
• Released: 1998
• Studios: Studio Ghibli
• Genres: Drama
• Themes: Historical
• Score: 8.53 (MAL), 8.5 (IMDb)

Another Studio Ghibli film, but this one offers a more hopeful take on history.

The Wind Rises is a masterpiece based on the real-life story of Jiro Horikoshi, the designer of Japan’s WWII fighter planes.

While it’s a fictionalized account, the movie is a stunning blend of history, aviation, and dreams, making it a touching tribute to early aviation pioneers.

It’s a touching and beautifully animated film that explores dreams, ambition, and the weight of historical events.

The Wind Rises info (MAL):

• Alternative Title: Kaze Tachinu
• Episodes: 1
• Released: 2013
• Studios: Studio Ghibli
• Genres: Drama, Romance
• Themes: Historical
• Score: 8.12 (MAL), 7.8 (IMDb)

Ever wondered what happened when the Mongol Empire tried to invade Japan? Angolmois brings this intense historical moment to life with gritty realism.

It follows a group of samurai exiles who find themselves defending Japan against a massive Mongol invasion.

This anime captures the brutal realities of war, showing both strategic complexities and emotional toll on those involved.

The battles are intense and unfiltered, keeping viewers on edge. Set against a rich historical backdrop, it pulls you deep into its world.

Angolmois: Record of Mongol Invasion info (MAL):

• Alternative Title: Angolmois: Genkou Kassenki
• Episodes: 12
• Released: Summer 2018
• Studios: NAZ
• Genres: Action, Drama
• Themes: Historical, Military, Samurai
• Score: 7.12 (MAL), 7.1 (IMDb)

Want a fun, alternate-history twist on the famous warlord Oda Nobunaga? The Ambition of Oda Nobuna reimagines historical figures as female warriors in a lighthearted yet action-packed series.

The protagonist, Sagara Yoshiharu, finds himself transported to this quirky version of the Sengoku era and becomes Nobuna’s retainer.

While it takes plenty of creative liberties, it’s an entertaining take on Japan’s Warring States period with plenty of humor, strategy, and romance.

If you enjoy alternate-history twists with a comedic edge, this one’s for you.

The Ambition of Oda Nobuna info (MAL):

• Alternative Title: Oda Nobuna no Yabou
• Episodes: 12
• Released: Summer 2012
• Studios: Madhouse, Studio Gokumi
• Genres: Action, Comedy, Romance
• Themes: Harem, Historical, Military, Time Travel
• Score: 7.35 (MAL), 6.4 (IMDb)

Imagine Victorian London, but with spies, steam-powered technology, and secret missions. Princess Principal takes historical fiction to the next level.

The story follows a group of young female spies navigating the political tensions of an alternate 19th-century London.

With thrilling espionage, stylish animation, and intriguing world-building, this anime offers a unique twist on historical storytelling while still capturing the elegance of the Victorian era.

Princess Principal info (MAL):

• Alternative Title: N/A
• Episodes: 12
• Released: Summer 2017
• Studios: Actas, Studio 3Hz
• Genres: Action, Mystery
• Themes: Historical
• Score: 7.67 (MAL), 7.6 (IMDb)

History, but make it over-the-top action!

Sengoku Basara is an intense, high-energy retelling of Japan’s Sengoku era, where warlords like Oda Nobunaga, Date Masamune, and Sanada Yukimura battle for dominance.

However, don’t expect textbook history. This anime cranks everything up to 100 with exaggerated sword fights, superhuman abilities, and fiery rivalries.

If you love high-octane action with historical figures turned into larger-than-life warriors, Sengoku Basara is a blast. Just like the game, if you still remember it.

Sengoku Basara: Samurai Kings info (MAL):

• Alternative Title: N/A
• Episodes: 12
• Released: Spring 2009
• Studios: Production I.G
• Genres: Action, Fantasy
• Themes: Historical, Martial Arts, Samurai
• Score: 7.32 (MAL), 6.7 (IMDb)

Reliving History, One Anime at a Time

Historical anime isn’t just about the past. It’s about bringing history to life in a way that’s exciting, emotional, and sometimes even mind-blowing. These anime let us experience history through incredible animation and storytelling.

Some anime stay true to history, while others add fantasy or action, but they all offer a fresh way to experience the past.

Got a favorite historical anime? Drop your recommendations, we’d love to hear them!