Japan’s modernization during the 18th and 19th centuries rendered the samurai class obsolete, yet their legendary existence remains vibrant in contemporary culture. This enduring legacy is vividly portrayed in various media formats, including live-action films, literary works, manga, and anime.
The term “samurai anime”encompasses a range of themes pertaining to medieval Japan, from its aesthetic to the philosophical tenets of bushido. This thematic richness lends itself to storytelling set in Japan’s historical context while enabling the samurai mythos to transcend temporal and geographical boundaries, appearing in diverse narratives across various genres.
Updated December 5, 2024, by Kristy Ambrose: The fascination with samurai-centric television series, feature films, and miniseries has surged, building upon a robust fanbase that dates back to early Japanese samurai cinema. Today’s adaptations can effortlessly blend samurai legends into modern settings, futuristic landscapes, or even realms beyond Earth, showcasing their versatility in storytelling.
27 Yasuke
A Historical Drama Based on a Real Person
- Studio: MAPPA
- Number of Seasons: 1
- Number of Episodes: 6
This unique production by Netflix intertwines fact and fiction, inspired by Yasuke—a real African warrior who became a samurai during Japan’s 16th century. While elements of Yasuke’s historical journey inform the narrative, the anime introduces a fantasy twist. Initially arriving in Japan with Jesuit missionaries, Yasuke serves the feudal lord Oda Nobunaga. Following Nobunaga’s downfall at the hands of a formidable foe, Yasuke finds himself a ronin, embarking on new adventures after two decades of retirement.
When he reluctantly agrees to transport a singer and her ailing child, he unwittingly becomes embroiled in a journey marked by unexpected magical elements tied to the child’s powers.
26 Onimusha
The Power to Kill a Demon
- Studio: Sublimation
- Number of Seasons: 1
- Number of Episodes: 8
Created by the Japanese studio Sublimation and distributed by Netflix, Onimusha draws from a popular video game franchise while employing real historical figures from the Edo period. The protagonist, swordsman Miyamoto Musashi, wields the powerful Oni Gauntlet—entrusted to him by monks to aid him in vanquishing the demon threat.
25 Kurozuka
A Malevolent Spirit from Japanese Folklore
- Studio: Madhouse
- Number of Seasons: 1
- Number of Episodes: 12
The name Kurozuka translates to “black mound,”referencing the ominous figure of Onibaba from Japanese mythology. This series is noted for its striking, visceral portrayals of brutality, characteristic of the Madhouse studio’s trends. Following the story of the wandering samurai Kuro in 12th-century Japan, encounters with the vampire Kuromitsu and subsequent betrayals lead him into a dystopian future, propelling him into a quest for her and ultimately altering his fate.
24 Brave 10
A Story of the Warring States Period
- Studio: TMS Entertainment
- Number of Seasons: 1
- Number of Episodes: 12
Brave 10 is set against the backdrop of Japan’s Warring States Period, exploring a historical world marked by conflict and power struggles. Focusing on Isanami, a priestess who survives a brutal ninja massacre, the plot follows her alliance with the ronin Saizou Kirigakure as they navigate treacherous landscapes and seek aid from a local lord amid societal turmoil of the era.
23 Samurai Deeper Kyou
The Samurai That Became a Demon
- Studio: Studio Deen
- Number of Seasons: 1
- Number of Episodes: 26
The tale unfolds four years after a catastrophic meteorite impact, centering on bounty hunter Yuya Shiina as she seeks Kyoushirou Mibu, a former samurai now mired in a life of debt. Unbeknownst to her, Kyoushirou has become one with a demon named Kyou following a fateful duel. The series explores their intertwined destinies as they confront their shared history.
22 Angolmois: Record of Mongol Invasion
The Early Middle Ages in Japan
- Studio: NAZ
- Number of Seasons: 1
- Number of Episodes: 12
Angolmois focuses on the Mongol invasions of Japan in 1274, depicting the valiant efforts of a group of prisoners forming a frontline defense during the Mongol onslaught. The narrative widely explores characters’ backstories through flashbacks, shedding light on their journeys to incarceration. The main character, samurai Kuchii Jinzaburō, exemplifies a fierce devotion to his sword arts amidst the turmoil of politics and conflict.
21. The Secret
Historically Accurate Without Quirky Details
- Studio: Madhouse
- Number of Seasons: 1
- Number of Episodes: 25
Known as A Tree in the Sun, this classic anime, which originated as a manga in the 1980s, delves into a historically accurate portrayal of the Meiji Restoration’s dynamic societal transformations. The story revolves around Ryoan Tezuka, a proponent of Western medicine, and Manjiro Ibuya, a traditionalist samurai, tracing how their lives intersect and influence the broad cultural shifts of the time.
20 Kenyuu Densetsu Yaiba
A Light Samurai Show for Kids and New Viewers
- Studio: Pastel
- Number of Seasons: 1
- Number of Episodes: 52
Originally airing in 1993, this underappreciated gem, Brave Sword Legend Yaiba, follows the adventures of a young samurai. When Yaiba stumbles into urban life, he transforms from a mere child of the wilderness into a local hero through his swordsmanship. This shonen anime stands out as an excellent entry point for younger audiences exploring the world of samurai tales.
19 Salvation
Mecha and Samurai Saving the World
- Studio: P.A. Works
- Number of Seasons: 2
- Number of Episodes: 26
Bridging the worlds of mecha and samurai, Kuromukuro features Kennosuke Tokisada Ouma, a samurai from the Sengoku era thrust into a modern-day context. His mission to protect Yukina Shirahane, a high school student, unfolds against a backdrop of alien invasions and unearthly connections, deftly weaving historical elements into a contemporary narrative.
18 Mushibugyō
An Alternate History of the Edo Period
- Studio: Seven Arcs Pictures
- Number of Seasons: 1
- Number of Episodes: 26
Mushibugyō melds historical aesthetics with fantastical elements in its portrayal of samurai Jinbei’s battles against Mushi, monstrous insects wreaking havoc across towns. This blend of anachronistic visuals and thrilling narrative offers a fresh take on the samurai genre, appealing to fans of experimental anime.
17 Hakuouki
The Last Days of the Samurai
- Studio: Studio Deen
- Number of Seasons: 7
- Number of Episodes: 12
Hakuouki, beginning with Demon of the Fleeting Blossom, presents a gripping narrative set in 1864 Japan. The series chronicles Chizuru Yukimura’s harrowing search for her father, a quest that intertwines with the fates of several samurai as they navigate the socio-political turmoil of their time.
16 Afro Samurai
Speculative Science Fiction
Set in a post-apocalyptic world intertwined with samurai ethos, Afro Samurai features the renowned Samuel L. Jackson, who voices multiple roles and co-produced the series. The storyline follows Afro on a bloody journey of vengeance against the killer of his father, navigating a terrain populated with advanced technologies, including motorcycles and androids. Released in a five-episode miniseries format from 2004 to 2005, it captivated audiences with its unique blend of brutal action and philosophical depth.
15 Shigurui: Death Frenzy
A Historical Literary Adaptation
- Studio: Madhouse
- Number of Seasons: 1
- Number of Episodes: 12
Shigurui: Death Frenzy presents a meticulous character study among samurai engaged in high-stakes tournament matches. Drawing from historical events of the 1629 martial contests during the Tokugawa era, the anime intricately explores deep-rooted grudges and personal conflicts that shape the lives of its combatants.
14 Sengoku Basara: Samurai Kings
Fantasy, Occult, and Historic Drama
- Studio: Production I.G
- Number of Seasons: 1
- Number of Episodes: 12
Focusing on the Sengoku period’s chaos and strife, Sengoku Basara: Samurai Kings merges historical lore with fantastical elements. Adapted from a Capcom video game and featuring iconic figures like Date Masamune and Sanada Yukimura, the narrative depicts their resolution to join forces against an overwhelming demonic force. The series has enjoyed continued popularity, leading to sequels and expanded media adaptations.
13 Ōoku: The Inner Chambers
A Unique Interpretation of Samurai History
- Studio: Studio Deen
- Number of Seasons: 1
- Number of Episodes: 10
Ōoku: The Inner Chambers presents an alternative historical fantasy where women assume the roles of samurai and leaders due to a devastating plague that decimates the male populace. This thought-provoking narrative delves into the political dynamics of a samurai society reimagined through a female lens, intertwining mystery and romance in a power struggle.
12 Samurai 7
A Vision of a Dystopian Future
- Studio: Gonzo
- Number of Seasons: 2
- Number of Episodes: 26
A futuristic reinterpretation of Akira Kurosawa’s classic film Seven Samurai, Samurai 7 transports viewers to a dystopian world where a band of samurai defends a village against mechanized bandits. Combining elements of the original tale with sci-fi themes, this series preserves the essence of the narrative while introducing innovative challenges to its characters.
11 Blade of the Immortal
A Samurai Cursed with Immortality
Blade of the Immortal, adapted from the manga series titled The Inhabitant of Infinity, follows the life of Manji, a samurai cursed with immortality. To regain mortality, he must slay 1000 malevolent individuals. The anime spans from 1993 to 2012, boasting an impressive run and a recent adaptation that further explores its intricate plot and compelling themes.
10 Basilisk: Kouga Ninpou Chou
A Story That Includes Ninjas and Samurai
- Studio: Gonzo
- Number of Seasons: 2
- Number of Episodes: 24
Basilisk unfolds amidst the Tokugawa Shogunate, spotlighting the intense rivalry of two ninja clans. The love story between Gennosuke Kouga and Oboro Iga fuels this tale of loyalty and conflict, leading to catastrophic consequences in their efforts to reconcile their families, ultimately involving the Shogun himself.
9 Ninja Scroll
A Chilling Tale of Politics and Horror
Released in 1993, Ninja Scroll remains a seminal work amongst samurai anime, earning acclaim for its deep storytelling and gritty animation. The narrative follows Kibagami Jubei, a ronin whose journey across Japan becomes a fight against formidable foes known as the Eight Devils of Kimon. Its stunning visuals and intricate sound design mark its significance in the anime landscape during a time of burgeoning popularity.
8 House of Five Leaves
The Trials of Samurai Life
- Studio: Manglobe
- Number of Seasons: 1
- Number of Episodes: 12
House of Five Leaves captivates audiences with its serene visuals and nuanced storytelling. Following the gentle-natured ronin Masanosuke Akitsu, the series explores his unexpected role as a bodyguard for a bandit leader, delving into themes of morality and human connection amidst the backdrop of the samurai’s complex life.
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