Finding the best high school anime to watch can seem like an overwhelming task. After all, there’s so much choice out there that it can be hard to know where to begin. If you’re looking for the perfect blend of action, comedy, romance, and drama, then look no further than these top twenty high school anime television shows.
Every single one is sure to bring something special to the table, and with stories covering almost every genre imaginable, you’re bound to find something that piques your interest.
Whether you want something heartwarming or a show with a distinct edge and plenty of action-packed moments, this selection of high school-themed anime series should keep you entertained for weeks on end.
Pick up a few to see just how captivating these beautiful stories told by beloved characters in exquisite settings can be:
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20. GOTOUBUN NO GOTOUBUN NO
Gotoubun no Hanayome, also known as 5-Toubun no Hanayome, is one of the most popular high school animes on TV right now. This romantic comedy series follows Fuutarou Uesugi and his five identical quintuplet sisters—Nino Nakano, Miku Nakano, Yotsuba Nakano, Itsuki Nakano, and Ichika Nakano—as they attend high school.
The story is centred around their lives, filled with amusing escapades at school and other fun moments at home. Each of the five sisters has unique personalities that bring different elements to the show, making it quite a joy to watch.
Whether it’s a rivalry between two of them or hijinks involving all of them, there’s something for everyone in this anime. In addition to being entertaining and funny throughout its run, it also features excellent animation from studio Bibury Animation Studios that adds colour and vibrancy to each scene that’ll keep viewers captivated all throughout.
19. Kaguya Sama Love Is War
Kaguya Sama: Love Is War is an anime that follows the two smartest students in their high school as they battle it out for love. At first glance, Kaguya and Miyuki seem like rivals, but they soon discover that they’re actually in love with one another.
They develop a unique competition to win each other’s hearts – both of them trying to make the other confess their feelings before the other does.
Kaguya Sama: Love Is War also offers hilarious comedy and hilarious gags not only to keep viewers engaged but to draw parallels between real-world romantic relationships.
The characters feel fleshed out and often resort to using their intellect and wit instead of physical force when finding ways to get close to one another. The art style of the show is vibrant and pleasing while fitting with the Japanese culture almost perfectly.
Kaguya Sama: Love Is War is an amazing anime series that combines strong character dynamics with a wonderfully crafted storytelling style, it is well deserving of its top ratings on IMDb and Crunchyroll, as well as its position amongst fan-favourite shoujo anime titles.
18. Charlotte
“Charlotte” is an anime tv show focused on a group of teens with extraordinary powers. It tells the story of their personal struggles and achievements, making it an intriguing and engaging watch.
The show explores themes of friendship, belonging and identity. The characters are emotive, and the animation is stunning, with vibrant colours used to bring each scene vividly to life.
No matter your age, everyone can relate to these themes, making this one of the best high school anime series out there today. “Charlotte” offers up some creative plotlines that will leave you wanting more – make sure to add this one to your list.
For those looking for a unique take on the traditional high school story, Charlotte won’t disappoint. Meticulously crafted characters mixed with exciting action scenes provide hours of entertainment. Its unique blend of humour and warm-heartedness ensures that viewers of all ages can enjoy it no matter who they are.
17. YAMADA-KUN AND THE SEVEN WITCHES
YAMADA-KUN AND THE SEVEN WITCHES is one of the best high school anime tv series out there. It brings together comedy, romance and adventure in a magical way that is sure to leave you captivated. The story follows Ryū Yamada, an unlikely hero at Suzaku High School who gets entangled with seven witches with unusual powers after an accidental kiss.
With Shiraishi, his childhood friend and Mia, the mysterious witch he can’t help but have a crush on, Ryū embarks on the quest to unlock each witch’s power and full potential. As Ryū meets each of the seven witches, their secrets are revealed, and his connection to them becomes deeper than ever.
Between battles against rival schools and thwarting schemes within Suzaku High, YAMADA-KUN AND THE SEVEN WITCHES offers fans a fantastic ride filled with excitement and heartwarming moments.
16. Oregairu
Oregairu, one of the best high school anime TV shows ever produced, is not to be missed. This witty and intelligent show follows the story of a loner high school student named Hachiman Hikigaya and his journey in learning to make friends while helping those around him.
With its realistic portrayal of relationships, stunning animation, and characters that you can’t help but love, Oregairu has earned its place as one of the top-rated anime series out there.
The beauty of this timeless classic is that it perfectly captures the complexities that come with high school life, from falling in love to understanding social hierarchies and making difficult decisions about your future.
While Oregairu certainly features plenty of romantic relationships between characters, it offers much more than typical teen romance drama. It dives deep into philosophical topics like what’s important in life and even morality – something we don’t often see in masterfully crafted fiction these days.
15. Another
Another is a psychological horror mystery anime TV show that follows Mei Misaki and her classmates at Yomiyama North Middle School. Set in the year 1998, the disturbed class begins experiencing multiple deaths of their classmates under mysterious circumstances.
As the series progresses and more students start to die, it soon becomes clear that their deaths are associated with an expressionless female student in their class who everyone refers to as ‘Mei Misaki’.
Though Initially overlooked for fear or disbelief, Mei and her classmate Kouichi Sakakibara soon uncover a dark secret surrounding their school as they investigate connections between themselves and the otherworldly casualties taking place in their classroom.
With compelling storytelling, endearing characters and thrilling suspense, Another ensures its place amongst one of the best high school anime TV shows out there. Its fast-paced plot keeps viewers on their toes with unexpected plot twists and a genuinely unpredictable conclusion.
The visual aspect of the show is outstanding for its era, including the effective use of hand-drawn visuals, along with haunting music to give it an extra edge.
14. Hyouka
Hyouka is a Japanese mystery animation based on a novel of the same name by Honobu Yonezawa and animated by Kyoto Animation. It follows Hotaro Oreki, an apathetic high school student forced by his sister to join the Classic Literature Club with four other members. Each of these characters has unique abilities that help Hotaro discover mysteries in his strange town.
Hyouka will captivate its audience through thoughtful mystery stories, interesting characters that grow as they take on more cases, and amazing animation sure to keep viewers hooked. Despite being high school students, the members are able to tackle tough puzzles, discover clues from books, dissection of complex facts, or use psychological insight from their club mates.
Every episode offers characters lessons about appreciation for the past, life philosophy and environmental science. As plotlines progress to offer new twists, the show offers fans hilarious jokes and beautiful artwork.
13. Toradora
Toradora, the highly acclaimed and beloved anime TV show, is considered by many fans to be one of the best high school anime shows ever created. It follows the lives of two friends in their senior year of high school as they navigate the ups and downs of teenage life.
The characters are unique and endearing – from Ryuji Takasu, a mischievous prankster who tries to stay out of trouble but can’t help getting caught up in it, to Taiga Aisaka, a cute but fiercely protective girl who stands up for her friends. Together they face life’s tough challenges while also making sure to keep track of their studies, relationships, work and social lives.
Toradora is whimsical, funny and often heart-breaking but surrounded by an upbeat musical score that just makes you want to get up and dance. Characters develop realistically while the story remains unpredictable yet maintains its focus on captivating character development throughout.
12. Ouran Koukou Host Club
Ouran Koukou Host Club has been one of the most iconic high school anime shows in recent years. The story follows Haruhi Fujioka, a young student from a modest family who accidentally gets invited to the extravagant and elite Ouran Academy.
Her misadventures with the infamous Ouran Koukou Host Club provide plenty of comedy and drama, compounded by clever writing and a zesty soundtrack.
The club is made up of six members with distinct personalities, allowing viewers to engage with an array of diverse characters. Furthermore, its charming and whimsical voice acting transports viewers into its magical cast and story.
A key highlight of ‘Ouran Koukou Host Club’ is how well it captures the trials of being a high-school-aged teen in both serious and funny moments. Watching this show will give wannabe high schoolers a peek at their dream school and allow younger viewers to have great fun watching the quirky adventures that ensue.
11. The Assassination Classroom
“The Assassination Classroom” is an incredibly popular anime tv show that takes the traditional high school setting and puts a unique spin on it. The series follows a class of misfit students whose mission is to assassinate their tentacle-shaped Teacher, Koro-sensei, before he destroys Earth.
While each student has their own individual motives for wanting to complete the task at hand, it’s the camaraderie between them all that makes this show so engaging and entertaining to watch.
From the extreme martial arts lessons with Karasuma-sensei to the hilarious pranks initiated by Itona Horibe, “The Assassination Classroom” is one of the best anime series to come out of Japan in recent years.
10. The Classroom of the Elite
The Classroom of the Elite, otherwise known as You-Koukou-Saikan, is an anime series that has captured the imagination of high school and anime fans alike. The story follows a rebellious schoolboy named Kiyotaka Ayanokoji, who gains enough points to get accepted into a prestigious academy.
This academy is split into four classes ranked from A to D., With class A is filled with students from wealthy and powerful families, and class D is students with little money or resources.
In each episode, Kiyotaka tries to figure out how to live in a world where intelligence isn’t necessarily rewarded, and he discovers that he can use his rebel streak for good by helping those less fortunate. Through vivid animation and clever writing, viewers are held captive as they see how Kiyotaka navigates this complicated world using logic rather than emotions.
9. Great Teacher Onizuka
Great Teacher Onizuka (GTO) is arguably one of the best high school anime tv shows ever produced. With its compelling story and colourful cast of characters, GTO follows the antics of former bad boy Eikichi Onizuka as he embarks on a journey to be the greatest Teacher anyone has ever seen.
Each episode blends drama, comedy and moments of heart-warming self-discovery, as Onizuka learns lessons while teaching those around him life skills they may never have otherwise known.
The characters and stories are always relatable to viewers no matter their age or gender, which is why it has been so loved for over two decades now.
8. A liar at Magic School
A Liar at Magic School is an anime TV show that follows the story of a regular high school student, Hikaru Ubuyashiki, who accidentally finds himself at an elite magic school. In this new magical world, Hikaru must face all sorts of challenges and mysterious creatures.
He soon finds out that the school isn’t all it seems to be and that the students’ true purpose is anything but ordinary. With a blend of action, mystery, and comedy, this show provides exciting entertainment for viewers of all ages. Featuring themes such as loyalty and friendship, A Liar at Magic School offers a unique experience that’s sure to keep everyone in suspense.
The episodes are full of vibrant animation and dynamic characters – so don’t miss out on this amazing fantasy-adventure series. For those looking for something special, A Liar at Magic School is definitely a show anybody can appreciate.
7. Nichijou
Nichijou is arguably one of the best high school anime TV shows out there. A unique and wacky take on high school life, this show will have you laughing out loud as you follow along with its wild cast of characters. The story follows the everyday lives of a group of middle schoolers living in Okazaki, Japan.
With its mix of moe and comedy, Nichijou takes a fun spin on high school hijinks while also offering some heartwarming moments. The animation style is unique and vibrant, further adding to the overall charm of the show.
Throughout its run, viewers have seen increasing levels of comedy and animation quality, with each episode feeling like an unpacking of various emotions and comedic situations.
6. Nisekoi
Nisekoi is an anime television series depicting a love story between two high school students who are forced to pretend to be in a fake boyfriend and girlfriend-relationship. The story is set in Japan with a blend of romantic comedy, harem elements, slice-of-life themes and the investigations which follows their situation.
It features an amazing art style combined with heart-warming yet hilarious characters, creating an entertaining watch from start to finish. For those looking for some good high school anime shows with vibrant animation, memorable characters and creative storylines, then ‘Nisekoi’ should surely be on your anime watchlist.
It’s also one of the few shows where conventional shoujo tropes like unrequited love and childhood promises are explored in an enthralling way without losing its comedic charm or compromising quality. Those unfamiliar with the shounen genre can still appreciate it thanks to its charming leads, detailed artwork and imaginative plot devices.
5. Angel Beats
Angel Beats is an anime series loved by viewers around the world for its complex narrative and exhilarating action. Developed by Jun Maeda, this high school anime TV show combines elements of comedy, drama, fantasy, and action to present a story that’s sweeping and emotionally captivating.
It follows the protagonist, Otonashi Yuzuru, in his after-death adventures within Hinata High School as he leads a ragtag group of teenagers against “God”.
Through the course of their mission, they learn about love, loss, compassion and friendship. With gorgeous animation created by P.A.Works and strong characterization from an all-star Japanese voice cast, Angel Beats provides a highly enjoyable viewing experience.
4. My Hero Academia
My Hero Academia is one of the most popular high school anime TV shows today. The story follows Izuku Midoriya, an underdog without any superpowers in a world where nearly everyone has them. With the help of his mentor, All Might, he works hard to develop himself and learn to become a real hero.
My Hero Academia does an excellent job exploring tone and conveying all types of emotions for its characters. The art direction is just as captivating, with amazing visuals that make each scene come alive.
Despite the fantasy setting, the show looks realistic enough that viewers can relate to its characters even if they don’t have any supernatural abilities themselves. Every episode also introduces a new challenge that Izuku must overcome, which creates interesting suspense and increases anticipation as the series progresses.
3. Highschool DxD
Highschool DxD is an anime TV series that has become a significant part of the anime fandom. It follows the adventures of Issei Hyodo, a high school student who is reincarnated into a Devil by Rias Gremory after being killed by her on their first date.
He then joins the Occult Research Club at Kuoh Academy, owned and operated by Rias, wherein he meets other Devils, Fallen Angels and Angels in his quest to level up so that he can one day become a Harem King. The show is action-packed with supernatural battles, plenty of fan service and comedy to spare.
Highschool DxD has gathered many die-hard fans since it was first released due to its solid storyline featuring characters with well-developed personalities and distinctive designs.
Above all else, it stands out for not neglecting character growth during its many arcs, which allows viewers to invest in the development of the protagonists from episode one all the way to the finale.
2. BASKET OF FRUITS
“Basket of Fruits” is one of the best high school anime tvs shows around. From the unique art style to the gripping storyline and relatable characters, this series has a lot to offer any viewer. The plot follows a group of students as they try to form the ultimate basketball team, creating some exciting moments for viewers to enjoy.
There are plenty of lessons and comedic moments that viewers can learn from or laugh at in this show, meaning there’s something for everyone.
Regardless of who you are, if you want an enjoyable and educational anime experience, “Basket of Fruits” is sure to provide it. With wonderful visuals and great pacing, this series provides an impressively gripping viewing experience that fans won’t forget any time soon.
1. Food Wars
Food Wars! is the high school anime tv show that has captivated audiences since the debut of its first season in 2015. This popular anime follows 15-year-old Yukihira Soma as he enrols in Totsuki Academy, a prestigious culinary school where students vie for dominance and aim to become the best chef of their generation.
Food Wars! should be considered one of the best high school anime tv shows due to its vibrant visuals, heartwarming character development, and mouth-watering recipes. The anime does an excellent job at showcasing different cooking techniques, cuisines, and produce throughout each episode, leaving viewers craving what comes next.
Plus, despite the intense competition between characters, there’s still a sense of camaraderie that helps build connections between characters across all years of training.
Conclusion
High school anime shows provide the ultimate escapism from daily life through their hilarious, heartfelt and action-packed stories. That’s why they’ve been popular among high schoolers in Japan and around the world for decades.
With so many great series to pick from, reliving those classic high school experiences can be a blast.
There’s something for everyone in our list of top 20 High School Anime shows to watch. So grab a bowl of your favourite snack, check out one of these acclaimed titles and enjoy.
