Are you a fan of ghost and paranormal anime? Prepare to be spooked as we explore some of the best titles in this genre.
From classic horror shows known by veteran fans to the newest 2020 shows, tough-but-loving supernatural guardians, and mysterious portals that bridge the gap between this world and another, these exciting series are truly one of a kind.
Whether you’re searching for something more serious or scary, there’s an anime out there to satisfy anyone’s cravings. After all, these captivating shows quickly draw in viewers with their unique premises and immersive storylines. So that begs the question – which ghost & paranormal anime deserves a spot on your watchlist?
In our article “25 Best Ghost Anime & Paranormal Anime Series”, we’ll dive into 25 must-see series for any fan intrigued by horror and supernatural storytelling.
Through our comprehensive review, you’ll find the perfect show for whatever experience you’re looking for within this vast genre.
Jump right into our list today and find your next binge-worthy show:
Contents
25. Fuse: Memoirs of a Huntress
Fuse: Memoirs of a Huntress is an exciting anime series that has captivated the hearts of anime and paranormal enthusiasts alike.
This spellbinding ghost anime follows a young huntress known as Tei, who is equipped with special abilities that enable her to rid her small village of troublesome spirit creatures.
With the help of her brave friends, Tei must battle with supernatural beings in order to emancipate herself and restore harmony to the world. The characters are memorable, and the visuals create an immersive atmosphere within this thrilling anime series.
Despite being an unconventional choice for some viewers, Fuse: Memoirs of a Huntress proves to be an unforgettable experience that successfully blends unique elements from both genres together.
24. Ao no Exorcist (Blue Exorcist)
Ao no Exorcist, or Blue Exorcist, is an incredibly popular anime and manga series created by Kazue Kato. The series follows the life of teenager Rin Okumura and his twin brother Yukio – two sons of Satan himself.
Set in a world where demons and humans live side-by-side, the plot follows the brothers as they take up roles as exorcists who are tasked with fighting the minions of Satan and protecting humanity From certain destruction.
As an uplifting motif throughout the series, it ultimately showcases how courage, charisma and compassion influence both worlds, blurring the lines between them so all reach a more harmonious coexistence between demons and humans.
Blue Exorcist is a great entry point for those who are just starting to explore anime thanks to its riveting story, complex characters and impressive action sequences that keep viewers enthralled.
23. Natsuyuki Rendezvous
Natsuyuki Rendezvous is a popular ghost and paranormal-themed anime series that has captured the imaginations of viewers all around the world. This unique series brings to life its otherworldly characters as it follows the story of Hazuki Ryuusuke.
After falling in love with shopkeeper Rokka Shimao, the two characters find themselves immersed in a supernatural romance that shows no signs of stopping any time soon.
With its blend of comedy, drama and unique animation, this anime provides an entertaining experience for all types of viewers. The soundtrack also plays an integral part in helping bring the scenes to life in this captivating series.
22. A Letter to Momo
“A Letter to Momo” is a Japanese anime film about an eleven-year-old girl who must come to terms with her father’s sudden death.
Having moved from Tokyo to the countryside, she discovers a supernatural phenomenon in the form of three mysterious objects.
These objects take the shape of monsters under the guise of helpful spirits and lead Momo on an adventure that teaches her valuable lessons about life, love, and loss. This series appeals to viewers of all ages with its emotionally captivating story.
Its dark and whimsical tone, coupled with its captivating animation, has made it one of the most beloved ghost anime & paranormal anime series ever created.
It centres on family bonds as we watch this young girl go through a tumultuous time period in her life yet come out stronger because of it.
21. Death Note
“Death Note” is a must-watch anime and manga series if you’re into paranormal and ghost anime. It follows a story of a genius high school student who discovers the mysterious Death Note – a supernatural notebook with an evil power to kill anyone whose name is written in it.
With its captivating story, thrilling, suspenseful twists, excellent animation, and social commentary, “Death Note” has achieved great success and continues to be popular among fans today. Its popularity led to two live-action films, spin-offs and video games.
This amazing anime portrays the consequences of unlimited power and the moral dilemmas created by it. If you haven’t watched “Death Note,” drop everything now and set aside some time for this remarkable series; you won’t regret it.
20. Devilman: Crybaby
Devilman: Crybaby is a must-watch for fans of ghost and paranormal anime. This intriguing series was released in 2018 and was produced by Science Saru and directed by Masaaki Yuasa.
It follows Akira Fudo, who nearly loses his life when attempting to save a friend from a demon attack. Thanks to the power of the Devilman, he manages to survive and gain new abilities that allow him to fight against evil forces. While doing so, he must also struggle with the realization that he will never be entirely human again.
Devilman: Crybaby offers viewers an exciting mix of horror and comedy as they watch Akira battle demons while attempting to remain true to himself.
19. Another
Another, an exceptional ghost anime & paranormal series, has certainly become a hit with viewers of all ages. Possessing an intense and captivating storyline, it follows the mystery behind an uncannily grim sequence of deaths at Yomiyama Middle School.
With its detailed animation and art style, heart-pounding suspense, and perfect combination of horror and supernatural elements, Another will keep you on the edge of your seat as it unravels a thrilling and haunting tale.
Its complex characters will draw you in as they become embroiled in the escalating danger of the events in Yomiyama’s eerily fascinating world.
Our very own protagonist, Kōichi Sakakibara, seeks to discover why everyone is haunted by “the curse” – ultimately unearthing secrets that have been long buried in time.
18. Bakemonogatari
Based on the well-known Monogatari series created by NisiOisin, Bakemonogatari is an anime series that follows the peculiar story of Araragi Koyomi. As a student following his daily routine, he encounters supernatural beings and gets entangled in mysterious situations.
The animation evokes a mysterious atmosphere as it brings to life the amusing paranormal scenes centred on classic folklore monsters that Koyomi faces with his courage and wit.
Not only does the anime provide viewers with an exciting blend of suspense and comedy, but its top-notch art style also captivates viewers with its surrealistic visual effects.
Interestingly enough, this unique combination of genres has earned Bakemonogatari a place among some of the most popular ghost stories and paranormal-themed anime series.
17. JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure
JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure has become one of the most popular anime and manga series around the world. Originating in 1987, this franchise is still incredibly influential today as a shonen manga and modern ghost anime.
Set across various time periods, JoJo follows the Joestar family as they fight with supernatural entities known as Stand users.
A Stand is like an invisible entourage that allows its user to manipulate objects or create superpowers that defy scientific explanation.
Unique enemies, stylish fighting scenes, and a kind-hearted protagonist are just some of the elements that make up this long-lasting and delightfully bizarre saga. It’s no wonder that many fans refer to JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure as one of their favourite paranormal anime series.
16. Death Parade
Death Parade is a thrilling ghost anime and paranormal anime series that fans of this genre have gravitated to. The show centres around Decim, the bartender of a mysterious bar known as Quindecim, who has the power to judge how departed souls will spend eternity.
While atQuindecim, Decim observes two individuals playing trivial games in order to uncover each individual’s true nature while accounting for both the winner and loser of each match.
These fun and intense anime series boast an entertaining mix of humour, supernatural adventure, and deep character arcs, making them a favourite among viewers.
By exploring themes of life and death along with morality through intense psychological battles, Death Parade provides viewers with fireworks of emotions.
15. Mob Psycho 100
Mob Psycho 100 is an exciting anime series set in the world of Ghosts, Spirits and supernatural forces. The series follows a middle school student named Shigeo Kageyama as he battles evil spirits while discovering his own powers and struggling with his insecurities and emotions.
The series is both visually stunning and intellectually stimulating; the artwork is vibrant and features a wide array of supernatural phenomena, while the story has a powerful narrative that touches on themes such as mental health, self-discovery and personal growth.
Fans of paranormal adventures are sure to find something to love in Mob Psycho 100; it has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for raw action or poignant plotlines, this anime series has it all.
14. Durarara!!
Durarara!! It is an anime series that perfectly combines the thrills of a ghost and paranormal story with compelling characters and witty dialogue.
Following the stories of its supernatural cast in Ikebukuro district, Tokyo, Japan, Durarara!! Fascinates any fan of anime with its complex web of victims and villains.
The mystery deepens as it reveals hidden truths about each character and their entwined fate. The power struggle between supernatural creatures and line gangs makes up the majority of Durarara!!’s storyline, leaving viewers at the edge of their seats.
Through intense fight sequences and mystifying story arcs, the show creates an unforgettable experience for all those who watch it.
If you’re looking for a series that dives into both horror and drama without compromising its quality, then Durarara!! Stands out as one of the tops shows in this genre.
13. Dororo
Dororo, the ghost anime & paranormal series, is an exciting and thrilling watch. This supernatural anime tells the story of a young ronin named Hyakkimaru who was born without any body parts due to a pact his father made with monsters.
As Hyakkimaru goes on a journey to reclaim his stolen body parts and defeat the demons, he does so with help from a boy thief named Dororo.
The action-packed adventure of these two unlikely companions reveals an outstanding display of friendship and courage in facing the unknown.
With spot-on character designs and artwork, Dororo uniquely captures its audience through its fascinating story arcs, as well as its impressive art style that is both unique and captivating.
Everything from Dororo’s intense fight scenes to its supernatural being creates an immersive experience for viewers ranging from casual fans to Ghost Anime aficionados.
12. Demon Slayer
Demon Slayer: Kimetsu No Yaiba is a critically acclaimed anime series that follows the journey of young Tanjiro as he embarks on a mission to save his family from destruction. The story begins when Tanjiro’s world tragically crashes down around him, and his family is slain by demons.
He soon encounters the mysterious demon slayer, Giyu Tomioka, who takes him under his wing and trains him in the art of demon slaying. From there, Tanjiro sets off on an epic adventure to defeat the demonic forces behind this attack.
As he battles more challenging adversaries and learns new techniques, he gains allies and uncovers secrets about his own past along the way.
Demon Slayer offers viewers an unforgettable experience filled with action-packed fight scenes, wonderful animation, and moments of hope as our hero matures into a courageous defender both emotionally and physically.
11. Hell Girl
“Hell Girl” is an incredibly spooky and captivating anime series that has been gaining traction among anime enthusiasts. This paranormal anime follows the story of Ai Enma and her haunting entourage, which grants a person’s wish to send another into the depths of eternal suffering in Hell.
Every episode of “Hell Girl” tackles social issues like bullying, corruption and abuse, which gives viewers an immersive experience of the world of supernatural vengeance. With its eerie setting and gripping storylines, this anime series is definitely not for the faint-hearted.
Watch out for new episodes as it tells intriguing stories about haunted souls seeking revenge. For those looking for thrilling animated horror entertainment, “Hell Girl” presents an exciting experience that will keep you glued to your seat until the end – making it a surefire hit with fans of ghostly adventures.
10. Tokyo Ghoul
Tokyo Ghoul is a paranormal anime series loved by many. It tells the story of a high school student in Tokyo named Ken Kaneki, who could never have predicted how his life would change after he became caught up in the world of ghouls.
After receiving an organ transplant, he becomes half-ghoul and is forced to adapt to this dangerous and unfamiliar way of life.
His newfound powers bring him both hope and danger as he attempts to make a place for himself between two worlds while trying to figure out if he truly belongs in either one of them.
Fans love its distinct ability to blend horror, action and drama while exploring fascinating topics such as identity, morality, and discrimination.
9. Ghost Hound
“Ghost Hound” is an anime series from 2007 created by Masamune Shirow and Production I.G. It combines elements of mystery and horror to tell a complex story about psychological trauma and supernatural forces in the world around us.
The main characters are three boys living in a small town whose lives become entwined through their psychic experience with ghosts, spirits, and other strange phenomena.
Their journey blurs the boundaries between the ordinary and the surreal as they confront anxieties ranging from middle-school bullying to life-or-death questions of identity. At its core, Ghost Hound is a captivating exploration of how we shape our lives through spiritual contemplation.
8. Mononoke
Mononoke is one of the most popular paranormal and ghost anime series today and offers a unique, hauntingly beautiful experience for viewers.
It follows the enigmatic Medicine Seller as he travels to sacred sites in feudal Japan to investigate supernatural forces at work.
The story is complex and unpredictable, filled with interesting characters, including animals, gods, and ghosts from cosmic planes.
Unlike traditional horror anime, which offers jump scares, Mononoke takes its time exploring deep emotion and thought-provoking themes like spirituality, moral ambiguity, fate, justice and more.
The art direction of the show is distinctive, with visual styles ranging from graphic novels to paper cut-outs to computer animation.
It’s no surprise that Mononoke has become a hit with both casual anime fans and those looking for a deeper supernatural experience.
7. The Disastrous Life of Saiki K.
What makes ‘The Disastrous Life of Saiki K an amazing anime series? Spectacular animation, engaging characters and interesting storylines.
This popular ghost and paranormal anime series follow Saiki Kusuo, a student who is endowed with superhuman powers, including telepathy and teleportation.
The comedic masterpiece explores the story of the unlucky protagonist as he attempts to hide his crushing powers from his peers. Although Saiki uses his intelligence to keep a low profile, he still finds himself in humorous situations.
Fans of supernatural comedy will appreciate this unique gem among the sea of modern-day animated series. The show also continues to receive acclaim for its solid character development which makes it highly entertaining even after multiple viewings.
6. Ghost Stories
Ghost Stories is an iconic anime & paranormal anime series that follows the supernatural misadventures of a group of school children trying to liberate their town from ghosts, ghouls and other supernatural creatures. The story takes place in a rural Japanese village where there is supposedly a powerful demon called “The King”.
The children enlist the help of Satsuki’s grandfather, who has mastered spiritual arts in order to free the town, encountering different creatures along the way.
Ghost Stories offers fans of classic horror-based content an intense yet lighthearted way to enjoy spooky tales from Japan.
With plenty of cleverly designed guardian spirits and amusing frights, this anime series is likely to keep viewers entertained for hours on end.
Using its renowned style, the show incorporates elements such as comedy and psychological horror into gripping tales that are sure to keep viewers captivated throughout its run.
5. Witch Hunter Robin
Witch Hunter Robin is a captivating and unique anime series that follows the story of a team of witch hunters led by the main character, Robin Sena.
This exciting supernatural show is set in an alternate reality where witches have the power to use special abilities to tap into the energy in order to cause disruption and chaos.
Yet the strange world of Witch Hunter Robin also offers moments of whimsy, creativity and drama as fans follow Robin’s brave journey throughout the course of this series.
Along her way, she discovers some paranormal adventures, exploring different perspectives on this supernatural universe while discovering more about her powers, as well as what it means to be a part of this secret team of witch hunters.
Those who settle in for an entire season will get everything they could ever want from a Ghost Anime & Paranormal Anime series; excitement, thrills, adventure and enigmatic mysteries galore.
4. Hotarubi no Mori e
With its captivating storyline, beautiful art design and complex characters, the mysterious horror anime series “Hotarubi no Mori e” is sure to make even the biggest sceptics believers.
This ghostly adventure follows a young girl Gin who encounters a spiritual being while visiting an enchanted forest on her summer holiday. Through the course of this supernatural odyssey, she learns true power lies within her own spirit and inner strength.
With its careful blend of realism and fantasy, this amazing anime resonates with both die-hard paranormal aficionados and casual viewers alike.
3. Natsume’s Book of Friends
Natsume’s Book of Friends is an anime series that highlights the magical adventures of Natsume, a teenager with the ability to see spirits.
Natsume is able to make contact with and help numerous ghosts by returning the names that were stolen from them by his grandma Reiko.
His supernatural gifts bring both misunderstandings and companionship as he works to mend the bridges between humans and ayakashi; all while uncovering the truth about his mysterious parents who left him in foster care.
This heartwarming story will take viewers on an emotional journey as they watch Natsume attempt to protect Ayakashi’s lives through unexpected comedic moments, relatable character development, and strong themes of family and friendship.
With such unique storylines and exceptional animation style, Natsume’s Book of Friends has become one of the most popular ghost & paranormal anime series around.
2. Colorful: The Motion Picture
Colourful: The Motion Picture is an anime movie that follows the stories of three ghosts as they explore the world around them. It combines elements of horror, fantasy and psychological drama, offering viewers an engaging Anime experience.
Despite being set in a supernatural world, Colorful focus on themes of love and hope ties into its overall calm yet intense atmosphere.
On top of that, the soundtrack and visuals are captivating; with its pastel-coloured backgrounds meshing beautifully with the whimsical music.
Although it’s not for those who are looking for jump scares or blood-chilling thrills, Colorful: The Motion Picture offers a unique blend of suspense and emotions that elegantly capture soulful occurrences in human life, such as distant memories, personal dilemmas and even death.
1. Spirited Away
“Spirited Away” is an exciting and enthralling ghost anime & paranormal anime series. It takes viewers on a journey full of mystery and fantasy.
Featuring a unique story, captivating characters and compelling visuals, it’s no surprise why this series has become so popular.
Set in Japan, the story follows Chihiro, a ten-year-old girl who discovers herself stuck in the world of spirits after wandering into the abandoned amusement park called Yomiuri Land.
Through her exciting adventure to return home, Chihiro meets spectacularly memorable characters such as Haku and Yubaba, who help her survive in this strange new world.
The animation is nothing short of brilliant as it brings life to every scene, which only heightens viewers’ senses while they take in all that ‘Spirited Away’ has to offer.
Conclusion
After research and observation, the 25 Best Ghost Anime & Paranormal Anime Series was successfully identified. This list has included a variety of genres and lengths ranging from classic supernatural forces to horror stories that are sure to spook.
These paranormal anime series have explored themes such as demons, ghosts, creatures of the night and fantastic worlds filled with secrets.
Some of these anime series offer grippingly addictive storylines, while others present interesting mythology or social commentary on life and death.
Whether you’re looking for a thrilling adventure or thought-provoking musings on the surreal world of ghostly phenomena, these 25 Best performing Ghost and Paranormal Anime are your best bet for an exciting supernatural fantasy world.
