Anime enthusiasts may be familiar with popular titles like One Piece and Dragon Ball Z, but they might not know about hidden Anime gems that boast twice the number of episodes as these beloved series.
With gripping adventures and intense battles, these long-running shows have spellbound audiences for years, carving an indelible niche in the Anime world. For those seeking long-lasting Anime experiences, these are the top 10 series with the highest episode count, promising countless hours of entertainment:
1. Sazae-san – 7,701 Episodes
Since 1996, the Anime adaptation of the Manga started airing in Japan and is still going strong with over 7,701 episodes! Impressive, right? Sazae-san even won awards and made history as the first Anime to win the Hashida Prize. It’s a wholesome and family-friendly show that’s been a favorite on Japanese TV for ages.
2. Nintama Rantarou – 2,189 Episodes
Nintama Rantarou, a Japanese Anime series, debuted in 1993 and is still going strong with 2,189 episodes to date. This popular show even had a musical adaptation based on its Manga/Anime, which won the Orie Morizumi Award at the Japanese Otaku Awards Girl’s Side in 2009. It’s been an enduring favorite among fans for many years.
Also read: Anime: 5 That Are Too Long to Watch
3. Ojarumaru – 1,827 Episodes
Ojarumaru, a delightful Japanese Anime series created by Rin Inumaru, has been enchanting audiences since 1988 and is still in production with an impressive 1,827 episodes to date. Produced by NHK Enterprises and animated by Gallop, the show has been airing on NHK E-Tele since October 1998. Notably, it received an Excellence Award for animation at the 1999 Japan Media Arts Festival.
4. Oyako Club – 1,818 Episodes
Oyako Club is a heartwarming slice-of-life Anime series that aired on Fuji TV from 1994 to 2013, with 1,818 episodes. The show revolves around two aliens, Rompa and Lun, who join a human family, creating humorous and heart-touching moments. Each short 5-minute episode explores family, friendship, and cultural blending, offering an entertaining experience for all ages.
5. Doraemon – 1,787 Episodes
Doraemon, the cherished Manga and Anime by Fujiko F. Fujio. Spanning 26 years, it enchanted us through 1,787 delightful episodes. Showered with accolades like the Japan Academy Prize including the Osamu Tezuka Culture Award and the Japan Cartoonists Association Award, this cultural icon touched hearts worldwide, selling over 250 million copies and leaving an everlasting smile.
6. Kirin no Monoshiri Yakata – 1,565 Episodes
Kirin no Monoshiri Yakata, a captivating children’s show, aired in Japan from 1975 to 1979. The heartwarming series revolves around Cathy the cat and a mouse, who teach kids about history while trying to befriend each other. The show, with its educational and entertaining format, offers a delightful experience for young viewers.
7. Soreike! Anpanman – 1,500 Episodes
Since 1988, Soreike! Anpanman has been a beloved Japanese Anime series, still in production with over 1,500 episodes. Children adore Anpanman, the superhero with a bread head, and his friends as they battle the mischievous Baikinman, promoting friendship and helping others. This edutainment show is a cultural icon, featuring 1,500 characters and inspiring various adaptations and merchandise, while keeping its enduring popularity.
8. Kirin Ashita no Calendar – 1,498 Episodes
From 1980 to 1984, the enigmatic Kirin Ashita no Calendar graced screens with 1,306 episodes in a TV Short format, each lasting 5 minutes. While specific plot details remain elusive, the show’s mystique captivates animation enthusiasts, making it a compelling piece of that era’s history.
9. Manga Nippon Mukashi Banashi – 1,494 Episodes
Manga Nippon Mukashi Banashi weaves enchanting tales from Japanese folklore and mythology into a delightful Anime series. Airing from January 7, 1975, to September 28, 1995, with 1,494 episodes, each lasting 24 minutes, it introduces key character Tarō. This fantasy, historical, and supernatural show by Nippon Animation has gained iconic status in Japan, inspiring adaptations in films, books, and merchandise.
10. Hoka Hoka Kazoku – 1,428 Episodes
From 1976 to 1982, the Anime series held the spotlight with an impressive run of 1,428 episodes, becoming a true sensation in Japan. Its wide appeal can be attributed to the winning combination of educational and slice-of-life themes, charming viewers of all ages. The heartfelt narratives struck an emotional chord, ensuring its place as a beloved classic.
