Otakomu, a respected Japanese entertainment portal, has just released a ranking of the best anime from the Reiwa era, covering 2019 to the present.
Published on January 19, 2026, this list highlights titles that have transformed the anime industry in recent years through exceptional technical quality and captivating storytelling.
Top 10 Features Familiar Heavyweights
As expected, Demon Slayer (Kimetsu no Yaiba) holds the top spot. Its influence is undeniable, having revived global box office sales and set new standards for animation quality. Close behind are The Apothecary Diaries (Kusuriya no Hitorigoto) and Oshi no Ko, both representing a surge in gripping and dramatic storytelling.
Notably, The First Slam Dunk, a film that revived the nostalgia of many generations, proudly ranks eighth, proving the enduring appeal of legendary stories reborn.
Complete List of 20 Must-Watch Masterpieces
This ranking spans a wide range of genres, from action and psychological drama to romance and slice of life:
1. Demon Slayer (Kimetsu no Yaiba)
2. The Apothecary Diaries (Kusuriya no Hitorigoto)
3. Oshi no Ko
4. Kaguya-sama: Love is War
5. The Dangers in My Heart (Boku no Kokoro no Yabai Yatsu)
6. Mushoku Tensei: Jobless Reincarnation
7. Mobile Suit Gundam: The Witch from Mercury
8. The First Slam Dunk
9. Lycoris Recoil
10. Jujutsu Kaisen
11. Summer Time Rendering
12. The Quintessential Quintuplets
13. To Your Eternity
14. Ousama Ranking
15. Skip and Loafer
16. Spy x Family
17. Bocchi the Rock!
18. Dungeon Meshi
18. Villainess Level 99 (tie)
20. Dandadan
Rising Stars and Genre Variety
A highlight of this list is the presence of fresh yet familiar titles like Bocchi the Rock! at 17, a phenomenon blending music and youth psychology, and Dungeon Meshi at 18, known for its unique fantasy culinary style. Especially impressive is Dandadan, a newcomer that already secured the 20th spot, showcasing the powerful appeal of the new generation of anime.
The Reiwa era continues to mark a golden age for anime, driven by cutting-edge production technologies. This list serves as a guide for anyone seeking the highest quality anime experiences from recent years.