School life is filled with waves of laughter with friends, rigorous study sessions, and raging youth, but not for Oh Ji-Soo. He does not have a guardian or financial support. Bae Gyu-ri, on the other hand, lives with her wealthy parents but is sick and tired of their cruel ways. Furthermore, they are not the only ones who had messed-up childhoods. As “extracurricular” activities, Ji-Soo and Bae Gyuri do illegal things to earn money.
Extracurricular is a thorough and thrilling tale, and we can’t seem to get enough of it, so here is a list of 20 K-Dramas like Extracurricular.
Beyond Evil, 2021
In a case of serial murders, blood, gore, and a wild detective chase, humans truly are beyond Evil. Detective Lee Dong-Sik lives a quiet life in a small town, working as a detective. Though his life might seem peaceful, it is far from it. Once accused of murdering his own sister, he now he is being suspected of being the one behind a recent serial murder which is similar to the case of his sister. Detective Han Joo-Won joins the team of police in this small town as Lee Dong-Sik’s superior officer and partner. Though Joo-Won has suspicions about Dong-Sik, they need to work together.
Beyond Evil (Credit: JTBC)
Beyond Evil has similar dark tones to Extracurricular. The drama also features powerful villains with unexpected twists in the plotline.
- Director: Sim Na-Yeon
- Cast: Shin Ha-Kyun, Yeo Jin-Goo, Choi Dae-Hoon, Kim Shin-Rok, Cheon Ho-Jin, Gil Hae-Yeon
- Number of episodes: 16
- Where to watch: Netflix , Viki, Prime Video
Extraordinary You, 2019
Teenage is the right time for love and life drama, and Extraordinary You has just that. The meta-romantic comedy is based on a webcomic by Moo Ryoo. Eun Dan-O has everything in life, from a rich family to a bunch of boys at school who pay her attention. The only problem is that she has a heart condition. This makes her the perfect main character, but Dan-O soon realizes that she is not even a side character; she’s an extra. One day a new student appears, which gives her hopes of escaping the fate of an extra character.
Extraordinary You (Credit: MBC)
Extraordinary You is a cringe-fest at many points, but that is intentional. It plays out all the cliche high school romances that are often seen in comics and point out the absurdity of the situation. There are no particular villains in the story, but secrets are lurking in the corners, just ready to unfold. Extraordinary You also has dark undertones, and the stakes keep rising as the story progresses.
- Director: Kim Sang-Hyub, Kim Sang-Woo
- Cast: Kim Hye-Yoon, Ro Woon, Lee Jae-Wook, Jung Gun-Joo, Lee Na-Eun, Lee Tae-Ri
- Number of episodes: 16
- Where to watch: Viki
Everything And Nothing, 2019
Teenage is years of turmoil and pain, but in certain moments, we see the light. Everything and Nothing follows the story of two teenagers, Min Jae and Seo Yeon, who are struggling to find themselves and happiness through the chaos of life. While they have their own struggles, they find comfort in one another. Though the total runtime of this drama is just 120 minutes, the show moves slowly, pondering upon the character’s grapple with life.
Everything And Nothing (Credit: SBS)
Everything And Nothing is a coming-of-age story that does not shy away from showing the grits of life, just like Extracurricular. It does not have the thrill and mystery that Extracurricular has but has the same darker tones. Additionally, Everything And Nothing does not try to solve all the problems that the characters come across. Rather, it leaves them open-ended and leans more toward finding happiness despite life’s issues.
- Director: Jo Young Min
- Cast: Park Si Eun, Yoon Chan Young, Seo Jeong Yeon, Lee Hang Na, Baek Seung Hwan, Choi Dae Hoon, Park Se Hyun
- Number of episodes: 4
- Where to watch: Viki
Class Of Lies, 2019
Crook lawyer Ki Moo-Hyeok loses his credibility after losing the case of a murder in a high school. To earn back his reputation and find out what really is going on in the school, he joins the school as a faculty. What he witnesses is a world of teenage crime and bullying. In this case, both the criminals and the victims are teenagers. Even the school and adults are trying to hide something. The case keeps becoming a stranger as more secrets begin to reveal themselves. It is up to Ki Moo- Hyeok to reveal the truth and help the victims.
Class Of Lies (Credit: OCN)
Class Of Lies features high school characters to turn over to a life of crime and bullying like in Extracurricular. People of power and those having money try to cover up these criminal incidents so as to protect their reputation and the students.
- Director: Sung Yong-Il
- Cast: Yun Kyun-Sang, Keum Sae-Rok, Lee Jun-Young, Choi Kyu-Jin, Han So-Eun, Joo Se-Bin, Choi Yu-Hwa
- Number of episodes: 16
- Where to watch: Viki
All Of Us Are Dead, 2022
Based on the webcomic by Joo Dong Geun, All Of Us Are Dead is a zombie survival story in a high school setting. There is a zombie virus outbreak, and everyone is locked in. It is a race against time to escape and save your life. The nerve wreaking situation brings out the animal and human inside of each of us. The show features multiple scenes of gore and horror. All Of Us Are Dead also talks about school bullying and violence.
All Of Us Are Dead (Credit: Netflix)
The Korean drama that took Netflix by storm, All Of Us Are Dead, is similar to Extracurricular in more ways than one. Both dramas show the good and bad of human beings. They also discuss serious topics like bullying and have a gloomy and thrilling feel to them.
All Of Us Are Dead season 2 will release soon on Netflix.
- Director: Lee Jae-Kyu, Kim Nam-Soo
- Cast: Park Ji Hoo, Yoon Chan Young, Lomon, Jo Yi Hyun, Yoo In Soo, Kim Byung Chul
- Number of episodes: 12
- Where to watch: Netflix
How To Buy A Friend, 2020
The mini-mystery series is a story of two students from very different worlds who form a bond to help each other out and uncover a suicide case. It is based on a comic by Kwon Laad. The two students strike a deal together and take care of each other’s concerns on a very contractual basis, hence the title. After the death of his girlfriend, Don Hyuk needs to know the reason behind her death, and hence, his contractual friendship with Chan Hong starts.
How To Buy A Friend (Credit: KBS)
What starts out to be a sweet romantic story quickly turns into a suicide mystery, and teenagers get into situations that are beyond risky. Similar to Extracurricular, How To Buy A Friend also surrounds bullying, violence, crimes, and uncovering the truth that is brewing underneath the lies.
- Director: Yoo Young-Eun
- Cast: Lee Shin Young, Shin Seung Ho, Kim So Hye, Oh Hee Joon, Min Do Hee, Jo Yi Hyun
- Number of episodes: 8
- Where to watch: Viki
Itaewon Class, 2020
Itaewon Class (Credit: tvN)
Both Extracurricular and Itaewon Classes deal with topics like bullying, class differences, societal evils, and fighting to make dreams come true. Additionally, actor Kim Dong-Hee plays a grey character in both dramas. The drama made headlines for breaking many social barriers and starting conversations surrounding racism and transphobia.
- Director: Kim Sung-Yoon
- Cast: Park Seo-Joon, Kim Da-Mi, Yoo Jae-Myung, Kwon Na-Ra, Ahn Bo-Hyun, Kim Dong-Hee, Ryoo Kyung-Soo, Lee Joo-Young, Chris Lyon
- Number of episodes: 16
- Where to watch: Netflix
Law School, 2021
One murder at a law school and multiple suspects; everyone from the professors to the students is a suspect. Law School is a crime thriller in which the professors and the students come together to solve a murder case. Secrets of the process and students also start pouring out during the investigation.
Law School (Credit: JTBC)
Law School makes every character a suspect at some point in the story. As the story unfolds, we get to look a little deeper into the characters’ lives and learn about their secrets. Like Extracurricular, Law School too has flawed characters, and the plot is heavily based on solving crime cases. For viewers who enjoy dramas based on law and court trials without them getting too dark, this one is a must.
- Director: Kim Suk-Yoon
- Cast: Kim Myung-Min, Ryoo Hye-Young, Kim Beom
- Number of episodes: 16
- Where to watch: Netflix
Mouse, 2021
Revealing anything about the drama will definitely spoil the mystery for you. It’s a psychological, mystery, science fiction, crime, thriller, and everything in between. Mouse is the story of a kind police officer Jung Ba-rum who gets involved in a serial murder case after his brother and an old neighborhood lady is murdered. It is up to him and Detective Ko Moo-chi to find the psychopath killer before time runs out.
Mouse (Credit: tvN)
- Director: Choi Joon-Bae
- Cast: Lee Seung-Gi, Lee Hee-Jun, Park Ju-Hyun, Kyung Soo-Jin
- Number of episodes: 20
- Where to watch: Viki
My Name, 2021
After the sudden death of her father, Yoon Ji-Woo is out to take revenge on whomsoever is the reason behind it. In order to gain power, she turns to a criminal group and becomes a part of their gang. She goes undercover as a mole for the criminal organization and joins the police force. She will take revenge by hook or by a crook with her partner Detective Jeon Pil-Do.
My Name (Credit: Netflix)
My Name is a gritty crime revenge story that has awesome action scenes. It is a gory and suspenseful story of a daughter trying to get revenge for her father’s unfair murder. The lead character has multiple identities, and she uses crime as her tool to get what she wants, which is similar to Extracurricular’s lead character.
- Director: Kim Jin-min
- Cast: Han So Hee, Park Hee Soon, Ahn Bo Hyun, Lee Hak Joo, Kim Sang Ho, Chang Ryul
- Number of episodes: 8
- Where to watch: Netflix
Save Me, 2017
Based on the webcomic by Jo Geum-San, Save Me is a story of a woman trying to escape a religious cult. Sang Mi and her family move to a new place after a failed family business. When there is no hope in sight for the family, Baek Jung Ki opens his hands and offers them help. What the family doesn’t realize is that they are slowly becoming a part of a cult from which there is no escape.
Save Me (Credit: OCN)
Save Me tackles darker themes like religion and cults. The overall color of the show is also murky. Four ex-classmates of Sang-Mi cross paths with her, and she asks them to be saved.
Save Me season 2 features a whole new cast and story but still explores the story of a cult.
- Director: Kim Sung-Su
- Cast: Seo Yea Ji, Ok Taec Yeon, Woo Do Hwan, Jo Sung Ha, Jo Jae Yoon, Park Ji Young
- Number of episodes: 16
School Series, 1999-2021
The School series first started in 1999, and initially, there were four seasons. After a decade of hiatus, the series picked up again in 2012, and 4 new seasons premiered. The latest season was School 2021. The stories of all the eight seasons are not related to each other. School series focuses on teenage problems like bullying, corruption in the education system, the stress of students, suicide, and much more.
School 2021 (Credit: KBS)
It is a story of a group of students who take up unconventional streams for their studies and make their own path in life. If you enjoy school drama along with romance and a dash of dark themes, look no further, the School series got you.
- Director: Han Sang-Woo
- Cast: Kim Yo-han, Cho Yi-hyun, Choo Young-woo, Hwang Bo-Reum-Byeol, Jeon Seok-Ho
- Number of episodes: 16
- Where to watch: Viki
Shadow Beauty, 2021
Just like Extracurricular, another story of a student living a double life and bullying, Shadow Beauty brings out the double standards of people and how beauty is perceived. It is the story of Ae-Jin, a high schooler who is bullied for her looks. What the others don’t know is that she is actually an influence who uses makeup and editing to change her looks for digital media. One day she is threatened by someone who now knows her real identity.
Shadow Beauty (Credit: Kakao)
Having some of the few situations like Extracurricular, Shadow Beauty is adapted from a webcomic by A-Heum. It is also a dark drama that explores the negative parts of school life.
- Director: Bang Soo-In
- Cast: Shim Dal Gi, Choi Bo Min, Lee Na Gyung, Heo Jung Hee, Yang Hong Seok, Baek Ji Hye
- Number of episodes: 13
- Where to watch: Viki
SKY Castle, 2018
Which parent wouldn’t want their child to succeed? The problem arises when the well-wishers start morphing their high expectations into pressure and stress for the kid. SKY Castle deals with a very real societal problem of the admission process and the stress that comes along with it. It is the story of a wealthy neighborhood who wants their children to get into SKY Universities (the top 3 universities in Korea), and that comes along with betrayal, accusations, and even suicide and m urder. It’s not just a competition to get into the best university, and it’s a war.
SKY Castle (Credit: JTBC)
Both Extraordinary You and SKY Castle star actor Kim Dong-Hee. Additionally, both have features like characters leading a double life, crime, and striving to hide the crime. Characters turn very ugly and toxic to each other.
- Director: Jo Hyun-Tak
- Cast: Yum Jung-Ah, Lee Tae-Ran, Kim Dong-Hee, Choi Won-Young, Kim Byung-Chul, Yoon Se-Ah, Oh Na-Ra, Kim Seo-Hyung, Choi Won-Young, Kim Hye-Yoon, Kang Chan-Hee
- Number of episodes: 20
- Where to watch : Netflix , Prime Video, Viki
Solomon’s Perjury, 2016
Based on Miyuki Miyabe’s novel, Solomon’s Perjury is a murder mystery that takes place in a school setting. A student fell to their death from the school rooftop, and the police are convinced that it was a suicide. The school, the adults, and the press don’t do much to help the situation and want to get over with the whole thing and move on as soon as possible. The students feel that there is more to the story, and so they decide to hold their own trials by duplicating a court setting. Secrets start revealing themselves one by one during the student trials.
Solomon’s Perjury (Credit: JTBC)
Solomon’s Perjury is a drama in which the students take charge of the situation at hand and decide to bring justice to their classmates. It delves deeper into human psychology and is a suspenseful watch.
There is a Japanese series based on the novel, which you can give a try if you are into such stories.
- Director: Kang Il-Soo, Han Hyun-Hee
- Cast: Kim Hyun Soo, Jang Dong Yoon, Seo Ji Hoon, Seo Young Joo, Jo Jae Hyun, Shin Se Hwi
- Number of episodes: 12
- Where to watch: Disney+
Strangers From Hell, 2019
The psychological thriller is sure to give you the creeps. Strangers From Hell is the story of a young man who recently moves up to Seoul. He cheaply rents a room in a hostel, and the living conditions here are less than comfortable. Additionally, his neighbors are strange and eerie. Unexplainable events start happening in this building. A strange paranoia surrounds the whole setting of the show.
Strangers From Hell (Credit: OCN)
Based on the webcomic by Kim Yong-Ki, a dark and thrilling drama that is very unpredictable, to say the least. It is made in a way that the viewers feel like a part of this creepy house, and just like the lead character, the viewers, too, feel the rush to step out of this scary madhouse.
- Director: Lee Chang-Hee
- Cast: Yim Si Wan, Lee Dong Wook, Lee Jung Eun, Ahn Eun Jin, Park Jong Hwan, Lee Joong Ok
- Number of episodes: 10
- Where to watch: Prime Video
Taxi Driver Season 1 & 2, 2021 & 2023
After Kim Do-Ki’s mother is murdered by a serial killer, his life changes entirely, and he turns his life around to get revenge for his mother’s death. Once in the naval force, Kim Do-Ki is now a taxi driver. So, why be a taxi driver if you want to get revenge? Well, it’s not just a simple taxi. He works for an undercover organization that helps people get revenge. All members of the organization, while also looking to get their revenge, aid in some or the other way to help people get justice.
Taxi Driver (Credit: SBS)
It is a show in which characters lead a double life and punish criminals. The characters try to solve crime with crime to give people justice. It is based on a webcomic by Carlos and Lee Jae-Jin. You can check out the second season of Taxi Driver .
- Director: Park Joon-Woo
- Cast: Lee Je-Hoon, Esom, Pyo Ye-Jin, Kim Eui-Sung, Cha Ji-Yeon, Jang Hyuk-Jin, Bae Yoo-Ram
- Number of episodes: 16
- Where to watch: Netflix
The King Of Pigs, 2022
Two classmates reunite after receiving a message from a mysterious serial killer. The two recount their accounts of facing bullying. The killer is someone they know back from school, and so the chase begins. The King Of Pigs is a re-imagination of a Korean animated movie of the same name.
The King Of Pigs (Credit: tvN)
The story crisscrosses between the past and the present. It is a story about revenge and the results of bullying. The murder mystery has scenes that sometimes might be very hard to digest because of the scenes of school violence, but one will surely stay for the twists and the mystery.
- Director: Kim Dae-Jin
- Cast: Kim Dong Wook, Kim Sung Gyu, Chae Jung An, Choi Hyun Jin, Sim Hyun Seo, Lee Chan Yoo
- Number of episodes: 12
- Where to watch: Prime Video
The School Nurse Files, 2020
The School Nurse Files is an absurd K-Drama based on the novel “School Nurse Anh Eun-Young” by author Jung Se-Rang. Anh Eun-Young is a quirky school nurse who can see monsters that are created out of human desires, and when the school is infected with these monsters that only she can see, it is up to her and her lightsaber to take them down. She is soon joined by the Chinese literature teacher Hong In-Pyo who has a special aura that helps them in the battle.
The School Nurse Files (Credit: Netflix)
- Director: Lee Kyoung-Mi
- Cast: ung Yu-Mi and Nam Joo-Hyuk
- Number of episodes: 6
- Where to watch: Netflix
The Uncanny Counter, 2020
It might seem like just another noodle shop, but not everything is what it seems. A secret organization called the Counter eradicates evil spirits that try to harm the human world. All the members of Counter have special abilities that help them fight Evil. One day while visiting the noodle shop as a customer, high schooler So-Mun discovers the reality of the employees of the noodle shop and joins them.
The Uncanny Counter (Credit: OCN)
The Uncanny Counter is based on a webcomic by Jang Yi. The K-Drama has a good mix of high school life and demon hunting. Just like Extracurricular, the show portrays a darker side of school life while the characters live a secret life.
- Director : Yoo Sun-Dong, Park Bong-Sub
- Cast : Joe Byeong-Gyu, Yu Jun-Sang, Kim Se-Jeong, Yum Hye-Ran, Ahn Suk-Hwan
- Number of episodes : 16
- Where to watch : Netflix
If you have finished watching Extracurricular and are craving some more stories of thrill and school life, be sure to check out these 20 K-Dramas, which are similar to Extracurricular in some way or the other. These will surely satisfy your appetite for darker high school stories.
The emperor ordered the marriage of Qian Yunshang and Ye Youming. The young woman worries that she won’t be treated with dignity and doesn’t want to give up her freedom in exchange for an unsatisfactory husband for the rest of her life. She begs her mother and father to give up on sending her, but in her desperate attempt, she cunningly advises her parents to send Qian Yun Xi, their firstborn child.
Yun Xi’s parents abandoned her in an unknown place because of her extraordinary powers, which she has had since birth. She is delighted to switch places with her sister, and as she desperately needs love, she readily consents to marry Ye Youming. He shows his rage against the Qian family as he realizes that Yun Xi is not the woman he had imagined marrying. Still, he helplessly finds himself falling for her and her extraordinary powers.
The execution of the storyline and the characters has been done superbly and has made Psychic Princess an enjoyable watch. For fans of the genre, it is more than intriguing to watch ancient Imperial Chinese history in a fictitious animated setting with gorgeous artwork. For fans of the enemies-to-lovers trope, this anime is a must-watch!
Psychic Princess (Credits: Crunchyroll)
- Original run – 2018-2019
- IMDb Rating – 8.0
- Genre – Comedy, Drama, Historical, Superpowers, Romance
- Where to watch – Crunchyroll
30 Anime like Psychic Princess
Heaven Official’s Blessing
Based on ancient China, Xie Lian was the beloved Crown Prince of the majestic kingdom of Xianle and is now the protagonist of the Heaven Official’s Blessing . He had ascended to the above abode at a very young age but was sent back to the mortals. Another few years later, he ascended to the heavenly home again but was again sent back to the mortals.
Now, as he ascended for the third time, he decided to succeed in all his missions. On the first mission, he comes across a creepy stranger, who later turns out to be a Ghost King, Hua Cheng. The two embark on a journey to complete the mission and unravel what other secrets the heavenly realm has to offer.
This animation is filled with remarkable, finely drawn art style and picturesque visuals.
Heaven Official’s Blessing (Credits: Netflix)
- Directed by: Li Haoling
- Studio: Haoliners Animation League
- IMDb Rating: 8.2
- Genre: Action, Adventure, Comedy, Drama, Historical, Fantasy, War
- Release date: October 31, 2020
- Where to Watch: Netflix
Hetalia Axis Powers
Short comedy episodes on the personified countries involved in the World Wars. Germany is stuck with North Italy and Japan after the war, which he has to deal with. North Italy is powerless and fragile and has a weird obsession with pasta, while Japan is robust and reliable but, again, with weird obsessions. Watch how Germany tackles these problems while also facing endless taunts from the Allied Forces, who are already in an internal conflict.
United Kingdom staring at America in Hetalia Axis Powers (Credits: Funimation)
- Directed by: Bob Shirohata
- Studio: Studio Deen
- IMDb Rating: 7.3
- Genre: Comedy, Historical
- Release date: January 24, 2009
- Where to Watch: Funimation
Mo Dao Zu Shi
Two men on a mission to find the secrets of the magical realm, Wei Wuxian and Lan Wangji, are determined to train hard and skilfully master the art of magic. Their sole aim is to solve as many mysteries as they can in order to combat demons and dark energy. Watch Mo Dao Zu Shi as the friendship between the two men is wholesome, while the action and adventure they face will leave you breathless.
The animation provides beautifully carved-out characters and designs. The opening theme is a banger, “Drunken Dreams of the Past” and “As Promised,” both by none other than Lin Zhixuan.
Wei Wuxian and Lan Wangji crossing paths in Mo Dao Zu Shi (Credits: WeTV)
- Directed by: Xiong Ke, Ma Chendi
- Studio: Tencent Penguin Pictures, B.C May Pictures
- IMDb Rating: 8.5
- Genre: Action, Adventure, Comedy, Drama, Fantasy, Mystery
- Release date: July 9, 2018
- Where to Watch: WeTV
Kamisama Kiss
A beautiful struggling girl Nanami Momozono ends up in a majestic mansion after saving a helpless man from a stray dog but is suspicious of her surroundings. She tries to run away from the place, unaware that it is truly a shrine, but two shrine spirits stop her. They mistake her for Mikage, the land god of the shrine, which was the man Nanami had saved earlier. Watch how Nanami takes up the offer of serving as the divine god of the shrine and tackles all problems concerning the shrine and the spirits.
Nanami blushes to see the fox spirit Tomoe in Kamisama Kiss (Credits: Crunchyroll)
- Directed by: Akitaro Daichi
- Studio: TMS Entertainment
- IMDb Rating: 8.1
- Genre: Romance, Comedy, Fantasy
- Release date: January 6, 2015
- Where to Watch: Funimation, Crunchyroll
Snow White with the Red Hair
Contrary to her name, “Snow White,” Shirayuki is a fun-loving girl with red hair. She lives in the country of Tanbarun and works at a herbal shop. After facing difficulties, she refuses to be acquainted with Prince Raji, who is from the same kingdom as Tanbarun. And so we see Shirayuki cutting off her long red hair, and she runs to the wilderness until she is met by Zen Wistalia, who hails from the neighboring kingdom of Clarines. Watch how she makes her own name while ultimately becoming so powerful and stronger than before.
Shirayuki is working for Zen Wistalia (Credits: Funimation)
- Directed by: Masahiro Andō
- Studio: Bones
- IMDb Rating: 7.7
- Genre: Adventure, Romance, Fantasy
- Release date: July 6, 2015
- Where to Watch: Funimation
Yona of the Dawn
The kingdom of Kouka births Yona, a beautiful, powerful princess who is loved and protected by all until an act of treason corners her to flee her royal palace with her childhood friend and most trusted bodyguard, Son Hak. Yona and Son Hak are all alone, facing the dangers alone. With no other companion, they decided to get stronger so that they could recapture Kouka, which is rightfully theirs, and defeat all the enemies. Yona of the Dawn tells us the tale of Yona and Son Hak unraveling the deepest ancient mysteries to get back to Kouka.
Yona looking at the sunset (Credits: Crunchyroll)
- Directed by: Kazuhiro Yoneda
- Studio: Pierrot
- IMDb Rating: 8.0
- Genre: Action, Adventure, Romance, Fantasy
- Release date: October 7, 2014
- Where to Watch: Crunchyroll
Chrono Crusade
Set in the 1920s, America was surrounded by demons all over the country, and people couldn’t save themselves from these demons. So the holy organization was set up, known as the Order of Magdalene, in hopes of demolishing all demonic activities and places. This anime entraps you with such horrifying tales of Rosette Christopher and Chrono, who are demonic exterminators with a thirst for revenge on the demon Aion.
Rosette Christopher and Chrono looking behind (Credits: Crunchyroll)
- Directed by: Yū Kō
- Studio: Gonzo
- IMDb Rating: 7.1
- Genre: Action, Adventure, Comedy, Drama, Fantasy
- Release date: November 24, 2003
- Where to Watch: Crunchyroll
Samurai Champloo
The story follows three characters- Mugen, Jin, and Fuu. The trio is best known for balancing each other’s energy- Mugen is hot-tempered while Jin is calm, and Fuu makes them work together and stay put. Set in the Edo period, they go on a journey to find “the samurai with the smell of sunflowers.”
Mugen, Jin, and Fuu are looking down to discuss their plan (Credits: Amazon Prime Video)
The anime includes profanity to an extent and is considered quite graphic for viewers and has been advised accordingly. The storyline may seem complicated, but it addresses some of the pressing issues in Japan. The soundtrack features hip-hop, and RnB fused with traditional music.
- Directed by: Shinichirō Watanabe
- Studio: Manglobe
- IMDb Rating: 8.6
- Genre: Action, Adventure, Comedy, Drama, Historical, War
- Release date: May 20, 2004
- Where to Watch: Crunchyroll, Amazon Prime Video
Inuyasha
The anime is focused on a fifteen-year-old middle school student Kagome Higurashi. Poor girl didn’t know what to do when she got teleported to Tokyo during the Sengoku period as she met Inuyasha. Inuyasha is a half-dog demon and half-human. He and Kagome embark on a journey to recapture lost jewel fragments across the country.
The animation has a softer design style with no profanity, but it still depicts the oddly placed Sengoku period of Japan. Kaoru Wada is behind its soundtracks, giving us one of the most calming music to listen to.
A still capturing Kagome and Inuyasha from the series (Credits: Netflix)
- Directed by: Masashi Ikeda (#1–44), Yasunao Aoki (#45–167)
- Studio: Sunrise
- IMDb Rating: 7.9
- Genre: Action, Adventure, Drama, Fantasy
- Release date: October 16, 2000
- Where to Watch: Hulu, Netflix
Dororo
The series is indeed a future classic. It focuses on samurai and demons, while it is a narrative of two very different people during the Waring States era of Japan. It tells the tale of a child who had been cursed badly at childbirth. He grows up without vision, hearing abilities, and a sense of touch to fight the demons who cursed him as he is rescued by a medicine man who gives the child the will and strength to fight. He is then met by an orphan child named Dororo, and the two join hands to fight off demons.
Little child Dororo smiles (Credits: Amazon Prime Video)
- Directed by: Kazuhiro Furuhashi
- Studio: Tezuka Productions, MAPPA
- IMDb Rating: 8.3
- Genre: Action, Adventure, Drama, Historical, Fantasy, War
- Release date: January 7, 2019
- Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video
Katanatagari
Set in the Edo period of Japan, Shicika Yasuri is a swordsman who has a unique trait: he practices Kyotouryuu, a technique in which one’s own body is used as the blade. Shichika and Nanami, his sister, are living in peace but get interrupted by Togame, who has an odd request to collect all twelve unique swords, which are also commonly known as the “Deviant Blades.” Shichika joins Togame in capturing the Deviant Blades, despite the various attacks by enemies across the country.
Katanatagari Promotional Poster (Credits: IMDb)
- Directed by: Keitarō Motonaga
- Studio: White Fox
- IMDb Rating: 7.8
- Genre: Action, Adventure, Romance, Historical, Fantasy
- Release date: January 26, 2010
- Where to Watch: N/A
House of Five Leaves
Set in the Edo period of Japan, the series follows a young lost samurai who goes by the name Masanosuke Akitsu. As a skilled swordsman himself, he proves to be worthy by his employers, but one flaw that affects his relationship with others is his weak and timid personality. But no worries, he has the plot armor. He gets an offer from the young attractive bandit leader Yaichi, who asks him to be the bodyguard for Five Leaves, and he hesitantly accepts the offer, working carefully not to lose this job.
Akitsu, a samurai playing with a child (Credits: Crunchyroll)
- Directed by: Tomomi Mochizuki
- Studio: Manglobe
- IMDb Rating: 7.6
- Genre: Drama, Fantasy, Martial Arts
- Release date: April 15, 2010
- Where to Watch: Crunchyroll
Maria, The Virgin Witch
Set in medieval France during the infamous Hundred Years’ War, the series portrays Maria as a strong young witch who routinely uses her magic to the fullest to safeguard the country and prevent further conflicts. She helps and fights against many- including the nobles, the churches, the poor peasants and mercenary gangs, and the Heaven itself. The series isn’t just about the retelling of events but gives a much deeper delve into history as we know it.
Maria with weapons in front of her enemies (Credits: Crunchyroll)
- Directed by: Gorō Taniguchi
- Studio: Production I.G
- IMDb Rating: 7.6
- Genre: Comedy, Drama, Historical, Fantasy, Romance
- Release date: January 11, 2015
- Where to Watch: Crunchyroll
Emma: A Victorian Romance
Set in 19th century England, Emma, a maid who works for a strict and empathetic Kelly Stownar, is a beautiful young lady who seems to have quite a big fan following, but she is looking for genuine love. She finds it in William, the eldest son of the Jones family and the former ward of Emma’s governess. They both fall head over heels for each other, but as you might have guessed, the 19th century did not allow relationships between people of such contrasting social ranks. Will their love be strong enough to defy social norms?
Emma, a maid, and William. A rich man looking at each other with affection (Credits: Crunchyroll)
- Directed by: Tsuneo Kobayashi
- Studio: Pierrot
- IMDb Rating: 7.7
- Genre: Drama, Historical, Romance
- Release date: April 2, 2005
- Where to Watch: Crunchyroll
Sengoku Night Blood
In an anime that includes a character being teleported to an alternate universe known as Shinga, Yuzuki, the main protagonist, realizes that the universe is similar to the Sengoku period of Japan. The universe has humans and non-human creatures living together in peace and harmony, but their world is shattering as violence breaks out everywhere, leaving every place unsafe. Yuzuki is on a mission; will she ever find Himemiko, who can fix this wreck?
Masamune and Hideyoshi quarreling in Sengoku Night Blood (Credits: Crunchyroll)
- Directed by: Katsuya Kikuchi
- Studio: Typhoon Graphics
- IMDb Rating: 7.1
- Genre: Romance, Historical, Fantasy, War
- Release date: October 3, 2017
- Where to Watch: Crunchyroll
Amnesia
The series follows a young lady who faints at work and wakes up with no memory of her life or anyone in her life. Her friends Shin and Toma are the only ones who help her get home safely. She begins to see and hear a mystical being named Orion, invisible to others. Orion promises to bring back her memories, but it isn’t that easy to do this, as we soon find out that she has to do a lot of things without raising suspicions.
A still from the series Amnesia (Credits: Crunchyroll)
- Directed by: Yoshimitsu Ohashi
- Studio: Brain’s Base
- IMDb Rating: 5.8
- Genre: Romance, Fantasy, Mystery
- Release date: January 7, 2013
- Where to Watch: Crunchyroll
Hakuoki: Demon of the Fleeting Blossom
Set in 1864 Japan, the series follows Chizuru Yukimura, who heads to Kyoto, disguised as a boy, to look for her father. The story instead takes a twist as she finds herself attacked by mad vicious men who mistake her for a boy and have accidentally taken her to a narrow place for interrogation. But as soon as she reveals the name of her father, the ronins immediately release her since they are also searching for her father, but Chizuru is sandwiched between the ronins and their enemies as the story unfolds.
Demon with his fang teeth in the moonlit sky (Credits: Crunchyroll)
- Directed by: Osamu Yamasaki
- Studio: Studio Deen
- IMDb Rating: 6.4
- Genre: Action, Drama, Historical, Fantasy, Supernatural
- Release date: April 4, 2010
- Where to Watch: Crunchyroll
Kakuriyo: Bed and Breakfast for Spirits
The spirits from the Hidden Realm are known as Ayakashi. Since birth, young Aoi Tsubaki has had the ability to see such beings. Her grandfather, who had the same ability, teaches her how to feed them and coexist peacefully with them. After his passing, she struggles by herself to prevent the planet from collapsing since the ayakashi are progressively growing more hungry. In order to save the world and herself, will she accept her fate and get married to Oodanna, the “Master Innkeeper”?
A still from the series Kakuriyo: Bed and Breakfast for Spirits (Credits: Funimation)
- Directed by: Yoshiko Okuda
- Studio: Gonzo
- IMDb Rating: 7.6
- Genre: Drama, Romance, Fantasy
- Release date: April 2, 2018
- Where to Watch: Crunchyroll, Funimation
Meiji Tokyo Renka
Set around the Meiji Period, Mei Ayazuki has been sent to a parallel reality where she must deal with many difficulties, including seeing ghosts and developing close relationships with them. She meets men thanks to her talent, and she begins to feel a connection with them. Will she ultimately find love and remain in the Meiji era permanently, or will she attempt to return to her reality?
A still from Meiji Tokyo Renka (Credits: Crunchyroll)
- Directed by: Akitaro Daichi
- Studio: TMS/V1 Studio
- IMDb Rating: 7.3
- Genre: Romance, Comedy, Drama, Historical, Fantasy
- Release date: January 9, 2019
- Where to Watch: Crunchyroll
Appare-Ranman!
The series focuses on a 19th-century cross-country race. Appare Sorrano and Kosame Ishikki seek to compete in the “Trans-America Wild Race” together. Appare has a strong desire to build an automobile of his own and needs to get home without difficulty. Will the two of them seize this opportunity for adventure in order to ultimately obtain their goals? Will they be able to overcome the unforeseeable challenges that stand in their way as they attempt to win the race?
A still of Appare Sorano from the series Appare-Ranman! (Credits: Funimation)
- Directed by: Masakazu Hashimoto
- Studio: P.A. Works
- IMDb Rating: 6.8
- Genre: Adventure, Comedy, Historical
- Release date: April 10, 2020
- Where to Watch: Crunchyroll, Funimation
Yashahime: Princess Half-Demon
Together, Towa and Setsuna make an amazing sibling pair. The inseparable pair’s fate appears to take a turn in this feudal Japan story when a forest fire separates them. Towa has been transported to present-day Japan from another time and place. After ten years, Towa meets her long-lost twin Setsuna along with Moroha and Mistress Three-Eyes. The four of them unite to defeat their rivals, but given that Setsuna has forgotten everything from her childhood, would Towa be able to revive those memories?
Little demon girl using bow and arrow (Credits: Crunchyroll)
- Directed by: Teruo Sato (#1–24), Masakazu Hishida (#25–48)
- Studio: Sunrise
- IMDb Rating: 7.1
- Genre: Action, Adventure, Comedy, Drama, Historical, Fantasy
- Release date: October 3, 2020
- Where to Watch: Crunchyroll
Devils and Realist
William Twining discovers a secret room in his enormous mansion while trying to find valuables to pay for his expenses and unintentionally calls forth Dantalion, a haughty demon also known as the Grand Duke of Hell. He did this, but he doesn’t seem to believe it. Will William ever realize that he is at the center of an ongoing dispute between Heaven and Hell?
A still from the series Devils and Realist (Credits: Crunchyroll)
- Directed by: Chiaki Kon
- Studio: Doga Kobo
- IMDb Rating: 6.5
- Genre: Comedy, Historical, Fantasy, Mystery
- Release date: July 7, 2013
- Where to Watch: Crunchyroll
Touken Ranbu – Hanamaru
Saniwa, who lives in the year 2205, possesses the unique ability to give inanimate objects life. Saniwa is unique and must utilize his abilities to protect the world from evil forces and rectify history. Is he going to be able to do it? It is an adaptation of a game that goes by the same name.
Kashuu Kiyomitsu and Yamatonokami Yasusada standing on the rooftop (Credits: Crunchyroll)
- Directed by: Tomoaki Koshida
- Studio: Doga Kobo
- IMDb Rating: 7.0
- Genre: Action, Comedy, Drama, Historical, Fantasy
- Release date: January 7, 2018
- Where to Watch: Crunchyroll
Heike Monogatari
The Taira clan, commonly known as the Heike, which has the most influence over Japan, is the focus of the animated series. A little child who has an extraordinary eye and ability to predict the future disrespects the clan unintentionally. Her father loses his life as a result of her wrongdoing. After the gifted girl predicts the impending demise of the clan Taira, the clan leader’s eldest son chooses to protect her and preserve his clan rather than kill her and risk the demise of his clan. A well-informative retelling of the tale of Heike.
A little child with an odd eye sees the future of the Taira clan (Credits: Funimation)
- Directed by: Naoko Yamada
- Studio: Science SARU
- IMDb Rating: 8.0
- Genre: Drama, Historical
- Release date: September 16, 2021
- Where to Watch: Crunchyroll, Funimation
Nobunaga Concerto
“Who cares about what happened in Japan’s past? It has nothing to do with my life.”
A happy-go-lucky high school student Saburou expresses his feelings and gets teleported to the Sengoku Era of Japan. With much surprise, he stands right in front of the legendary Nobunaga Oda. But much to our surprise, the two get along pretty easily since they seem to remind each other of themselves. Watch the two chaotically adapt to each other’s surroundings and nature.
Nobunaga and Saburou trying to read (Credits: Crunchyroll)
- Directed by: Yūsuke Fujikawa
- Studio: Fuji TV
- IMDb Rating: 8.2
- Genre: Comedy, Romance, Historical
- Release date: July 12, 2014
- Where to Watch: Crunchyroll
Peacemaker Kurogane
A masterfully crafted historical action-comedy series centered on the Shinsengumi, the Japanese police force most active during the Edo Period of Japan. Tetsunosuke first approaches the Shinsengumi at the age of 15, but does the poor boy realize the many atrocities he would have to go through in order to join such a vast organization as the Shinsengumi?
Tetsunosuke glaring at Shinsengumi in Peacemaker Kurogane (Credits: Funimation)
- Directed by: Tomohiro Hirata
- Studio: Gonzo
- IMDb Rating: 7.3
- Genre: Action, Comedy, Historical
- Release date: October 7, 2003
- Where to Watch: Funimation, Crunchyroll
Magi: The Labyrinth of Magic
The story focuses on the realm of the Magi, a strong magician group. In order to obtain the power of the djinns imprisoned within the perilous labyrinths known as dungeons, each Magi selects a deserving candidate to become a king who aids them in conquering the labyrinths. Will Aladdin, a young mage, ever discover who he really is and what he is capable of? Watch as he sets off on a thrilling quest with his mentor Ugo to discover who he is and what he can do.
Magi: The Labyrinth of Magic Promotional Poster (Credits: Netflix)
- Directed by: Koji Masunari, Naotaka Hayashi
- Studio: A-1 Pictures
- IMDb Rating: 8.0
- Genre: Action, Adventure, Fantasy
- Release date: October 7, 2012
- Where to Watch: Netflix, Crunchyroll
Alderamin on the Sky
Ikta Solork is interrupted by the immediate war between the Katjvarna Empire and the Republic of Kioka. He joins the army along with his childhood best friend, where he meets other men and women of strength and power. He soon forms a close bond with them and proceeds to save the heir princess of the Katjvarna Empire along with the others. Will the group be able to complete this mission and successfully stop the war too?
The group of five military officers is given a mission by their leader (Credits: Crunchyroll)
- Directed by: Tetsuo Ichimura
- Studio: Madhouse
- IMDb Rating: 7.6
- Genre: Action, Adventure, Fantasy
- Release date: July 9, 2016
- Where to Watch: Crunchyroll, Funimation
The Tale of The Princess Kaguya
The animated movie likewise follows the same plot and is based on the Japanese folktale of Princess Kaguya from the 10th century. A little, adorable infant is found within a shining bamboo shoot by Okina, a bamboo cutter.
He raises her up, telling everyone that she is the lovely princess whom the heavens have sent to bless the Earth. One day, he discovers ample gold and treasures to become wealthy and raise the small girl like an actual princess. But as the story goes on, the young princess Kaguya’s background and identity gradually come into question.
Princess Kaguya playing with cherry blossom flowers (Credits: Netflix)
Studio Ghibli doesn’t fail to ever amaze us with its amazing artwork and design aesthetics while the stimulating and melodious soundtrack is gifted to us by none other than Joe Hisaishi.
- Directed by: Isao Takahata
- Studio: Studio Ghibli
- IMDb Rating: 8.2
- Genre: Historical, Fantasy
- Release date: November 23, 2013
- Where to Watch: Netflix
Princess Mononoke
Set in an indigenous village of Emishi, a young prince Ashitaka risks his life to defend his village from a demon boar. He meets Lady Eboshi of Tatara and Princess San, who are in constant feuds in regard to deforestation and protecting one’s ancestral lands.
Princess San riding on her wolf (Credits: Netflix)
Hayao Miyazaki beautifully shows the distinction between technology and nature, but at the same time, he narrates this beautiful story through the characters of Ashitaka and Princess San about how one can live with both in peace and harmony.
- Directed by: Hayao Miyazaki
- Studio: Studio Ghibli
- IMDb Rating: 8.6
- Genre: Action, Adventure, Fantasy
- Release date: July 12, 1997
- Where to Watch: Netflix
