Anime is a popular form of animation that originated in Japan and has spread worldwide. Anime is characterized by its distinctive style of drawing, colorful graphics, and expressive characters. Anime often draws inspiration from manga, Japanese comics, and other sources of Japanese culture, such as folklore and mythology. Some anime series are very long-running, with hundreds or even thousands of episodes. For example, some of the “Top 20 longest anime series” are One Piece, Detective Conan, and Dragon Ball.
Anime is not just a single genre, but a medium that encompasses a variety of genres and themes. Anime can range from comedy and drama to horror and sci-fi, and can appeal to different age groups and demographics. Anime can also explore complex and mature topics, such as politics, philosophy, and psychology, as well as lighter and more whimsical ones, such as magic, romance, and friendship.
Anime has a long and rich history, dating back to the early 20th century. Over the years, anime has evolved and expanded, producing countless series and movies. Some anime series are short and concise, while others are long and epic. Some anime series have hundreds or even thousands of episodes, spanning decades of production and storytelling.
In this article, we will present the 20 longest anime series of all time, based on the number of episodes they have. We will also provide some brief information about each series, such as the genre, the plot, and the main characters. Whether you are a fan of anime or a newcomer to the medium, you might find some interesting and enjoyable series in this list. Let’s get started!
Top 20 longest anime series are as follows:
1. Sazae-san (1969-present)
Longest Anime Series Details: Sazae-san is a legendary anime series that holds the Guinness World Record for the longest-running animated television program in history. The series debuted in 1969 and has been continuously airing ever since, with no signs of stopping. The series chronicles the everyday adventures and mishaps of a typical Japanese family, consisting of Sazae, her husband, their children, and their extended relatives. The series has produced over 7,000 episodes, making it one of the most prolific and enduring anime series of all time.
2. Nintama Rantaro (1993-present)
Longest Anime Series Details: Nintama Rantaro is a hilarious anime series that has been entertaining audiences since 1993. The series revolves around the escapades of Rantaro and his friends, who are aspiring ninjas at a prestigious ninja academy. The series features over 2,200 episodes of fun, action, and comedy, as the young ninjas face various challenges and enemies, while also learning about friendship and loyalty. Nintama Rantaro is one of the longest-running and most beloved anime series in Japan.
3. Doraemon (1979-present)
Longest Anime Series Details: Doraemon is a classic anime series that has captivated generations of children since 1979. The series tells the story of a futuristic robotic cat who comes from the 22nd century to assist a hapless boy named Nobita. The series has over 1,800 episodes of thrilling, heartwarming, and humorous adventures, as Doraemon uses his amazing gadgets and inventions to help Nobita overcome his problems and achieve his dreams. Doraemon is one of the most iconic and influential anime series in history.
4. Detective Conan (1996-present)
Longest Anime Series Details: Detective Conan, or Case Closed in English, is a successful anime series that has been running since 1996. The series centers on a brilliant high school detective who is forced to take on the appearance of a young boy after being poisoned by a mysterious organization. The series has over 1,000 episodes of mystery, suspense, and action, as the detective uses his wits and skills to solve crimes and find clues to his original identity. Detective Conan is one of the most popular and longest-running anime series in the world.
5. One Piece (1999-present)
Longest Anime Series Details: One Piece is a successful anime series that has been broadcasting since 1999. The series chronicles the epic journey of a group of pirates who are on a quest to find the legendary treasure known as One Piece. The series has over 900 episodes of adventure, comedy, and drama, as the pirates face various enemies and obstacles, while also forming bonds and friendships. One Piece is one of the most acclaimed and longest-running anime series in the world.
6. Naruto (2002-2007)
Longest Anime Series Details: Naruto is a classic anime series that aired from 2002 to 2007. It follows the adventures of a young ninja named Naruto Uzumaki as he trains to become the strongest ninja in his village. The series has over 200 episodes.
7. Dragon Ball Z (1989-1996)
Longest Anime Series Details: Dragon Ball Z is a classic anime series that aired from 1989 to 1996. It follows the adventures of Goku and his friends as they battle powerful foes to save the world. The series has over 291 episodes.
8. Bleach (2004-2012)
Longest Anime Series Details: Bleach is a popular anime series that aired from 2004 to 2012. It follows the adventures of a high school student named Ichigo Kurosaki, who becomes a Soul Reaper after acquiring the powers of a Shinigami. The series has over 366 episodes.
9. Fairy Tail (2009-2019)
Longest Anime Series Details: Fairy Tail is a popular anime series that aired from 2009 to 2019. It follows the adventures of a young wizard named Natsu Dragneel and his friends as they undertake various missions for their guild, Fairy Tail. The series has over 300 episodes.
10. JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure (2012-present)
Longest Anime Series Details: JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure is a popular anime series that began airing in 2012. It follows the adventures of the Joestar family, who possess unique powers that they use to battle supernatural foes. The series has over 150 episodes.
11. Inuyasha (2000-2004)
Longest Anime Series Details: Inuyasha is a classic anime series that aired from 2000 to 2004. It follows the adventures of a high school girl named Kagome Higurashi, who is transported to the feudal era of Japan and becomes embroiled in a war between demons and humans. The series has over 160 episodes.
12. Gintama (2006-2018)
Longest Anime Series Details: Gintama is a comedic anime series that aired from 2006 to 2018. It is set in an alternate version of feudal Japan, where aliens have taken over and samurai are no longer needed. The series follows the adventures of a group of samurai who have become odd jobbers, taking on various tasks to make ends meet. The series has over 350 episodes.
13. Yu-Gi-Oh! Duel Monsters (2000-2004)
Longest Anime Series Details: Yu-Gi-Oh! Duel Monsters is an anime series that aired from 2000 to 2004. It follows the adventures of a young boy named Yugi, who becomes involved in a game called Duel Monsters, where players battle using magical cards. The series has over 220 episodes.
14. Naruto Shippuden (2007-2017)
Longest Anime Series Details: Naruto Shippuden is a sequel to the original Naruto series, airing from 2007 to 2017. It follows the continued adventures of Naruto Uzumaki and his friends as they battle powerful foes and work to protect their village. The series has over 500 episodes.
15. Dragon Ball (1986-1989)
Longest Anime Series Details: Dragon Ball is a classic anime series that aired from 1986 to 1989. It follows the adventures of a young boy named Goku as he searches for the Dragon Balls, powerful artifacts that can grant wishes. The series has over 153 episodes.
16. Hunter x Hunter (2011-2014)
Longest Anime Series Details: The anime series, Hunter x Hunter, gained immense popularity during its original run from 2011 to 2014. It centers around the exciting adventures of a young boy named Gon Freecss, who embarks on a quest to become a Hunter and uncover the whereabouts of his missing father. With a total of 148 episodes, the series has captivated fans with its intricate plot, unique characters, and stunning animation.
17. Yu-Gi-Oh! GX (2004-2008)
Longest Anime Series Details: Airing from 2004 to 2008, Yu-Gi-Oh! GX is a spin-off of the popular Yu-Gi-Oh! franchise. The anime series centers around the journey of a young and talented duelist, Jaden Yuki, as he enrolls in a prestigious school for duelists. With a total of 180 episodes, Yu-Gi-Oh! GX has captured the hearts of fans with its intense duels, intriguing storylines, and memorable characters.
18. Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood (2009-2010)
Longest Anime Series Details: Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood is a popular anime series that aired from 2009 to 2010. It follows the adventures of two brothers, Edward and Alphonse Elric, who use alchemy to search for the Philosopher’s Stone to restore their bodies after a failed alchemical experiment. The series has over 60 episodes.
19. Black Clover (2017-present)
Longest Anime Series Details: Black Clover is a popular anime series that began airing in 2017. It follows the adventures of two orphans, Asta and Yuno, who both strive to become the Wizard King of their kingdom. The series has over 170 episodes.
20. Mobile Suit Gundam (1979-1980)
Longest Anime Series Details: Mobile Suit Gundam is a classic anime series that aired from 1979 to 1980. It is set in a futuristic world where giant mecha suits called mobile suits are used in warfare. The series follows the adventures of a young boy named Amuro Ray, who becomes a pilot of a mobile suit. The series has over 43 episodes.
In conclusion, these are the 20 longest anime series of all time, ranging from classic series that have been around for decades to newer series that are still ongoing. Each series has its own unique style and storyline, which has captured the hearts of millions of fans around the world. If you’re looking for a new anime series to watch or just curious about the longest anime series out there, these are definitely worth checking out.