Anime has an unparalleled ability to capture the hearts of audiences, and some series have taken this to the next level by boasting an impressive number of episodes. These anime epics not only showcase the creativity of their creators but also stand as a testament to their enduring popularity. Here’s a glimpse into the top 10 anime series that are very famous worldwide and with the most episodes, each a captivating journey of its own.
1-Doraemon (1979-present): This timeless series, with 1787 episodes, introduces Doraemon, a robotic cat from the future, and his adventures with Nobita. Its enduring popularity among audiences of all ages speaks to its universal appeal.
2-Pokémon (1997-present): A cultural phenomenon that transcends generations, “Pokémon” has captured the hearts of fans with over 1232 episodes. Following the adventures of Ash Ketchum and his trusty Pikachu, the series explores the vast Pokémon world, fostering a sense of camaraderie and the spirit of adventure in trainers of all ages. With its colorful characters, diverse Pokémon species, and ongoing exploration of new regions, “Pokémon” continues to be a beloved franchise that has stood the test of time. Whether it’s the thrill of battles, the quest for gym badges, or the pursuit of becoming a Pokémon Master, this anime has remained a cornerstone of the anime landscape for over two decades, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of fans worldwide.
3-Shin Chan (1992-present): Bursting with irreverent humor and the misadventures of the mischievous five-year-old Shinnosuke “Shin” Nohara, “Shin Chan” has entertained audiences with 1113 episodes. This slice-of-life comedy captures the everyday antics of Shin and his eccentric family, offering a refreshing departure from conventional anime narratives.
4-Detective Conan (1996-present): Chronicling the escapades of teenage detective Conan Edogawa Its clever mysteries and intricate plot twists have kept audiences engaged for decades. Detective Conan has a total of 1106 episodes on the date of this article written
5-One Piece (1999-present): With over a thousand episodes and still running, “One Piece” follows the adventures of Monkey D. Luffy and his crew in search of the legendary treasure, the One Piece. Its rich world-building and character development have solidified its place as an anime phenomenon. One Piece has a total of 1087 episodes on the date of this article written
6-Dragon Ball Franchise(1986-Present): Goku’s adventures, from a young boy with a monkey tail to a powerful martial artist defending Earth, extend over 831 episodes. Series included in the count are Dragon Ball, Dragon Ball Z, Dragon Ball GT, Dragon Ball Super, and Super Dragon Ball Heroes. “Dragon Ball” continues the story, introducing iconic characters and epic battles.
7-Naruto and Naruto Shippuden (2002-2017): The journey of Naruto Uzumaki, from a young ninja with dreams of recognition to the savior of the ninja world, spans over 720 episodes across both series. The narrative complexity and emotional depth make it a memorable saga.
8-Bleach (2004-Present): Ichigo Kurosaki’s journey as a Soul Reaper unfolds over 366 episodes. “Bleach” stands out for its unique blend of supernatural elements and intense battles in the spirit world. Bleach still isn’t completed The Bleach: Thousand-Year Blood War arc will have 52 episodes. The arc is divided into four parts, with each part airing annually. The first part ended with a two-part finale on December 26, 2022. The second part, The Separation, ran from July 8 to September 30, 2023. Part 3 is scheduled for release in spring 2024. Adding the 52 episodes of Bleach TYBW Bleach episodes brings the total up to 418 Episodes
9-Gintama (2006-2018): Combining humor and action, “Gintama” follows Gintoki Sakata and his odd-job crew in a world invaded by aliens. With over 367 episodes, it offers a unique blend of comedy and drama.
10-Fairy Tail (2009-2019): Natsu Dragneel and his friends embark on magical adventures in this series spanning 328 episodes. “Fairy Tail” is celebrated for its vibrant characters and magical world.
Conclusion: These anime series not only hold the record for the most episodes but also leave an indelible mark on the hearts of fans, transcending time and generations. Each episode is a building block in the construction of a vast and enduring anime legacy.
Note: I didn’t include Sazae-San which has over 7000 episodes because it is not very famous and only some may have finished this anime from start to finish. On a brighter note, Sazaae-San does have a Guinness World Record for the longest-running animation television show
