The Most Anticipated Anime of 2026

The anime landscape in 2026 is set to deliver an extraordinary mix of highly anticipated sequels and groundbreaking new adaptations. Fans can look forward to the return of massive hits alongside the conclusion of long running epic stories that have defined the medium for years. This year promises to be a landmark for the industry with diverse genres ranging from dark fantasy to intimate slice of life dramas. Each entry on this list highlights the creative growth and technical evolution currently driving global interest in Japanese animation.

‘Jujutsu Kaisen’ (2020)

Yuji Itadori continues his journey in the third season focusing on the high stakes Culling Game arc. Studio MAPPA returns to animate this sequel which is scheduled to premiere on January 8, 2026. Fans can stream the new episodes on the Crunchyroll platform as the story explores the intense battle royale orchestrated by Kenjaku. This installment follows the devastating events of the Shibuya Incident and introduces several powerful new sorcerers. The series maintains its reputation for fast paced action and complex supernatural power systems.

‘Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End’ (2023)

The elf mage Frieren continues her quest to understand human emotions and the legacy of her former companions in the second season. This continuation premieres on January 16, 2026, across various television and streaming services. Viewers follow the party as they venture further toward the northern lands of Ende to reach the resting place of souls. The story continues to explore themes of time and the profound impact of brief human lives on immortal beings. This adaptation remains one of the most celebrated modern fantasy series for its melancholy and beautiful storytelling.

‘My Hero Academia: Vigilantes’ (2025)

The spin off series focusing on unlicensed heroes returns for its second season on January 5, 2026. Koichi Haimawari navigates the dangerous underworld of Naruhata while evading both villains and the professional hero society. Crunchyroll will stream the episodes which serve as a prequel to the main ‘My Hero Academia’ storyline. This season explores the origins of several key characters and the early days of quirk regulation in Japan. It offers a grittier look at the superhero world from the perspective of those operating outside the law.

‘Golden Kamuy’ (2018)

Saichi Sugimoto and Asirpa reach the climax of their search for the hidden Ainu gold in the final season. The production begins airing on January 4, 2026, and will conclude the adaptation of the celebrated manga series. All major factions converge for a final confrontation in the frozen wilderness of Hokkaido as the truth behind the tattoos is revealed. The narrative blends historical facts with high octane action and unique culinary exploration. This finale promises to bring a definitive end to the complex struggle for the fortune.

‘Trigun Stargaze’ (2023)

Vash the Stampede returns in this new chapter scheduled for release on January 10, 2026. The series follows the events of the previous reboot and explores the deeper history of the humanoid Plants. Production remains handled by Studio Orange with its signature high quality CGI animation techniques. The story delves into the escalating brotherly conflict between Vash and Knives on the desert planet. Fans can expect a blend of space western action and philosophical questions regarding humanity and survival.

‘Hell’s Paradise’ (2023)

Gabimaru the Hollow continues his desperate search for the Elixir of Life on a mysterious and deadly island. The second season is set to premiere on January 11, 2026, for television and streaming audiences worldwide. New Yamada Asaemon executioners and criminals join the fray as the stakes for survival reach a breaking point. The narrative further explores the supernatural powers of the Tensen and the dark secrets of the paradise. This installment continues the visceral action and psychological tension that defined the first season.

‘【OSHI NO KO】’ (2023)

The dark exploration of the Japanese entertainment industry continues with a third season arriving on January 14, 2026. Aqua Hoshino pursues his intricate plan for revenge while Ruby strives to reach the top of the idol world. This installment covers the 2.5D Stage Play arc and the subsequent professional developments in their respective careers. Studio Doga Kobo returns to provide the vibrant and emotional animation that contrasts with the story’s darker themes. The series remains a biting commentary on the costs of fame and the nature of deception.

‘Fate/strange Fake’ (2024)

A false Holy Grail War breaks out in the American city of Snowfield starting on January 3, 2026. This full television series follows the success of the previous special and adapts the light novels by Ryohgo Narita. Mages and legendary spirits clash in a conflict where the traditional rules of the war are systematically broken. The story features a large cast of unique characters and unconventional servant classes. It expands the ‘Fate’ universe with a global perspective and a high stakes mystery involving the true nature of the grail.

‘Sentenced to Be a Hero’ (2026)

The adaptation of the dark fantasy light novel ‘Yuusha-kei ni Shosu’ premieres on January 3, 2026. It tells the story of criminals who are forced to serve as heroes to fight against the relentless Demon King’s army. The protagonist must navigate a world that views him as a disposable tool for justice while surviving brutal battles. This series explores themes of redemption and the morality of a society that uses punishment as a means of protection. The narrative offers a cynical and unique perspective on the traditional hero journey.

‘Hana-Kimi’ (2026)

The classic shojo manga ‘Hanazakari no Kimitachi e’ receives a modern anime adaptation starting on January 4, 2026. Mizuki Ashiya disguises herself as a boy to enroll in an all male boarding school to support her high jump idol. The story focuses on the comedic and romantic situations that arise from her secret identity and her interactions with classmates. This new production aims to bring the beloved characters and their emotional growth to a new generation of fans. It remains one of the most iconic gender bender romances in manga history.

‘Journal With Witch’ (2026)

This moving slice of life drama begins its broadcast run on January 4, 2026, for television and streaming. The plot follows a shy novelist who takes in her orphaned niece after the sudden death of her sister. Their relationship develops slowly as they learn to live together and navigate their shared grief through different perspectives. The series is praised for its realistic portrayal of human emotions and the formation of unconventional family bonds. It provides a quiet and contemplative look at the complexities of communication and healing.

‘Tamon’s B-Side’ (2026)

A high school girl discovers the shocking reality behind her favorite idol’s public persona on January 4, 2026. Tamon is a gloomy and insecure individual when he is not performing his energetic stage routine for his fans. The protagonist ends up working as his housekeeper and supporting his true self away from the spotlight. This romantic comedy explores the sharp contrast between celebrity life and private personality. The story deals with the pressures of the idol industry and the value of authentic connections.

‘Witch Hat Atelier’ (2026)

The highly anticipated adaptation of the manga by Kamome Shirahama arrives in the Spring 2026 season. Coco is a young girl who dreams of becoming a witch despite being born without natural magical abilities. After discovering the secret of how magic is drawn she becomes an apprentice to the wizard Qifrey. The series is known for its intricate world building and a stunning artistic style that mimics classic illustrations. It follows the group of young apprentices as they learn the wonder and the danger of magical craft.

‘Re:Zero – Starting Life in Another World’ (2016)

Subaru Natsuki faces new challenges and psychological trials in the fourth season scheduled for April 2026. The story continues after the events of the Watergate City arc as the cast deals with the consequences of their battles. New revelations about the Witches of Sin and the dark history of the world come to light during this journey. This sequel maintains the series’ reputation for intense emotional drama and the protagonist’s struggle against fate. Fans can expect further development of the complex relationships between Subaru and the inhabitants of the capital.

‘One Piece’ (1999)

The long running epic reaches the fabled land of the giants on April 5, 2026, with the premiere of the Elbaph Arc. Luffy and the Straw Hat Pirates finally set foot on the island to explore its ancient culture and historical mysteries. This arc is a major milestone for the series that has been teased for decades and is central to the lore of the world. The animation continues to follow the high quality production standards established during the recent sagas. It marks a significant step toward the eventual conclusion of the grand adventure.

‘The Beginning After the End’ (2026)

Arthur Leywin continues his magical training and political maneuvers in the second season this April 2026. The story follows a former king reincarnated into a world of magic and monsters who must use his past knowledge to survive. As tensions between the continents rise Arthur must prepare for an upcoming war that threatens his new family. This adaptation of the popular web novel focuses on the protagonist’s growth and his mastery of elemental powers. The series combines elements of traditional fantasy with modern progression themes.

‘Wistoria: Wand and Sword’ (2024)

Will Serfort continues his climb up the magical tower despite his inability to cast conventional spells. The second season premieres in April 2026 and explores deeper levels of the academy and the dangerous dungeon. Will relies on his superior swordsmanship and physical prowess to prove his worth among the powerful mages. The series combines fast paced action with a classic fantasy underdog story set in a rigid magical hierarchy. Viewers will see the protagonist face new rivals as he strives to fulfill a childhood promise.

‘Black Torch’ (2026)

An adaptation of the supernatural action manga is set to debut in the Summer 2026 season for global audiences. Jiro Azuma is a descendant of ninjas who can communicate with animals and eventually meets a powerful mononoke. He gets recruited into a secret government organization that handles supernatural threats and maintains the balance between worlds. The show features a mix of traditional ninja skills and modern urban fantasy elements with high stakes combat. It focuses on the partnership between humans and spirits in a secret war.

‘The Detective Is Already Dead’ (2021)

Kimihiko Kimizuka returns to solve mysteries tied to his late mentor in the second season during Summer 2026. The narrative continues to blend mystery with action and light supernatural elements in a global setting. Characters from the past resurface to challenge the protagonist’s resolve and his memories of Siesta. This installment aims to answer lingering questions about the global conspiracy introduced in the initial episodes. The story remains a unique combination of detective work and high stakes adventure.

‘The Apothecary Diaries’ (2023)

Maomao continues to solve medical and political mysteries within the imperial palace in the Fall 2026 season. The third season follows her as she deals with higher ranking consorts and more complex court intrigues. Jinshi remains a central figure as his relationship with the clever apothecary slowly evolves amidst new dangers. The series is celebrated for its historical setting and sharp deductive storytelling focused on medicine and poisons. It continues to adapt the popular light novel series with detailed character work and vibrant visuals.

‘Bleach: Thousand-Year Blood War’ (2022)

The final part of the blood war between Soul Reapers and Quincies is scheduled for a 2026 release on television and streaming. Ichigo Kurosaki and his allies face the ultimate form of Yhwach in the Soul Society to decide the fate of all worlds. This concluding chapter features expanded fight scenes and lore that were not found in the original manga publication. Studio Pierrot continues to lead the production with modern animation techniques and cinematic presentation. The story brings a definitive end to the decades long conflict of the series.

‘Dr. Stone: Science Future’ (2023)

The final season of the science adventure series concludes with its third part in April 2026. Senku Ishigami and the Kingdom of Science embark on their most ambitious project to reach the moon and find the source of petrification. The story finally resolves the mystery of the event that wiped out modern civilization thousands of years ago. Fans will see the ultimate confrontation with Why-man and the culmination of Senku’s technological journey. This finale celebrates the power of human ingenuity and the spirit of discovery.

‘Beastars’ (2019)

The anthropomorphic drama reaches its final conclusion in the second part of the third season during 2026. Legoshi faces the consequences of his actions while trying to maintain his complex relationship with Haru. The societal tension between carnivores and herbivores reaches a breaking point in this emotional finale. Studio Orange utilizes its advanced 3D animation to bring the intense character moments and visual metaphors to life. The series concludes its exploration of identity and the nature of instincts in a modern society.

‘The Ghost in the Shell’ (2026)

A brand new television series based on the legendary cyberpunk franchise is set to premiere in 2026. Science SARU is the studio responsible for this fresh take on the futuristic world of Section 9 and cybernetic crime. Major Motoko Kusanagi will lead her team through new philosophical dilemmas and high tech investigations. This production marks a significant return to the screen for the influential series with a new visual direction. The story will address modern concerns regarding artificial intelligence and human consciousness.

‘Magical Sisters LuluttoLilly’ (2026)

This new magical girl project is slated for an April 2026 broadcast on various television networks. The story follows two sisters who must balance their normal lives with their secret duties as protectors of the world. It features a modern take on the genre with updated character designs and dynamic transformation sequences. The series aims to capture the hearts of fans who enjoy classic magical girl tropes with a contemporary twist. It explores themes of family bonds and the responsibility of wielding supernatural power.

‘Sound! Euphonium’ (2015)

The Kitauji High School Concert Band returns for a two part final movie starting in Spring 2026. This first film focuses on the senior year of the main characters and their final pursuit of a gold medal at the national competition. Kyoto Animation returns to deliver its signature detailed visuals and emotional storytelling centered on musical passion. The movie provides a definitive conclusion to Kumiko’s journey as she leads the band through their most challenging season. It remains a benchmark for the music genre in Japanese animation.

‘JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure: Steel Ball Run’ (2026)

The epic cross country horse race begins on the Netflix platform starting March 19, 2026. Johnny Joestar and Gyro Zeppeli compete across 19th century America while dealing with supernatural Stand abilities and a government conspiracy. This seventh part of the franchise is widely considered one of its most ambitious and character driven stories. The series introduces a new continuity and a unique spin on the long running JoJo legacy. It features a massive cast of riders all searching for the parts of a legendary relic.

‘Fire Force’ (2019)

Shinra Kusakabe and Special Fire Force Company 8 enter the final battle in January 2026. The second part of the third season concludes the mystery of the Adolla Burst and the true nature of the world. The animation promises high octane action as the characters attempt to save humanity from total combustion. This finale adapts the remaining chapters of the manga series by Atsushi Ohkubo. It brings a definitive end to the struggle against the White-Clad and the Evangelist.

‘Chained Soldier’ (2024)

The second season of this action oriented series is set to premiere in January 2026 for television and streaming. Yuuki Wakura continues his service in the Anti-Demon Corps as the personal subordinate of Kyouka Uzen. The story introduces new members of the 7th Unit and powerful enemies emerging from the Mato dimension. This installment focuses on the deepening bond between the leads and their increasing power levels in combat. It continues to blend high stakes monster hunting with unique character dynamics.

Tell us which of these series you are most excited to watch in the comments.