There’s just something about samurai anime that hits different, with the sharp katanas, sharper ideals, and stories swimming in honor, betrayal, and redemption. From legendary wanderers to wild reimaginings of Japan’s blood-soaked eras, these series don’t just entertain; they pull you into entire worlds where every duel feels like destiny. Samurai anime is more than sword fights; it’s history, art, and raw emotion all rolled into one. Whether you’re here for gritty realism, wild fantasy, or just some of the slickest battles ever animated, this list of the best samurai anime will slice right into your watchlist. Ready to dive in? Let’s unsheathe the list!

27. Yasuke (2021)

Yasuke is a 2021 Netflix original anime that reimagines the real-life story of an African samurai who served under Lord Oda Nobunaga during Japan’s Sengoku period. Animated by MAPPA, the series blends historical drama with heavy doses of fantasy, introducing mechs, sorcery, and supernatural battles into Yasuke’s journey.

The story follows Yasuke after Nobunaga’s fall, living in obscurity until he is drawn back into conflict while protecting a mysterious girl with extraordinary powers. While it doesn’t strictly adhere to history, the show builds a striking world where legend and imagination collide.

26. Ninja Scroll: The Series (2003)

Ninja Scroll made its mark in 1993, standing proudly alongside Ghost In The Shell and Akira as one of the anime movies that introduced countless fans in the US and UK to the medium during its VHS boom. Its amazing action, supernatural elements, and unique style defined a generation’s first taste of Japanese animation. A decade later, Madhouse continued the legacy with Ninja Scroll: The Series, officially following the film, with Jubei Kibagami once again at the helm.

The Series unfolds across 13 episodes, combining episodic battles with a broader story centered on Shigure, the “Light Maiden” tied to the Dragon Stone, as Jubei finds himself fighting against supernatural opponents and rival ninja clans. While the TV adaptation lacked the cinematic polish of its predecessor, it remains a masterpiece to this very day.

25. Brave 10 (2012)

Brave 10 draws inspiration from a manga that is loosely connected to the illustrious Sengoku period. Among the numerous fables of that famous era stands the Sanada Ten, a formidable assembly of warriors meticulously assembled by Yukimura Sanada in his noble quest for supremacy.

Brought to life by Studio Gonzo and licensed by Funimation, Brave 10 embraces a fast-paced narrative that balances suspense with high-energy fights. Its greatest appeal lies in the chemistry between its eccentric warriors and the way their strengths complement one another on the battlefield. While the anime may lean toward entertainment rather than strict history, its stylish presentation and constant momentum give it a charm that keeps viewers engaged from start to finish, making it a must-watch samurai anime.

24. Kurozuka (2008)

Some anime naturally spark divided opinions about their quality, and often, those disagreements stem from reasonable interpretations. Kurozuka, however, is a series frequently misunderstood at its core.

While it might first appear to be a story centered on vampires, vengeance, betrayal, and love, it is far more layered than that. At its core, Kurozuka plays out like a grand “what if” scenario, and when viewed through that lens, even its conclusion feels fitting and purposeful. The series thrives on fast-paced action and surreal sequences that may initially leave viewers bewildered, yet that disorientation is part of its intrigue. For those willing to persist through the chaos, Kurozuka unfolds into a strangely mesmerizing experience, one that proves to be greater than the sum of its seemingly familiar themes.

23. Samurai Deeper Kyo (2002)

From October 15, 1999, until May 10, 2006, Samurai Deeper Kyo ran in Kodansha’s Weekly Shonen Magazine, ultimately spanning 38 collected volumes. In 2002, Studio Deen brought the series to television with a 26-episode adaptation broadcast on TV Tokyo between July 2 and December 23. Both the manga and anime later reached audiences in the United Kingdom, the United States, and Canada, with Tokyopop initially securing the manga license in 2002. That license, however, expired in 2009 when Kodansha chose not to renew it.

Written and illustrated by Akimine Kamijyo, the series unfolds during Japan’s Edo period, following the feared warrior Demon Eyes Kyo. After his spirit becomes trapped within the body of his rival, Mibu Kyoshiro, Kyo embarks on a relentless quest to reclaim his true body. Along the way, he is accompanied by Shiina Yuya, a bounty hunter; Benitora, heir to the Tokugawa line; and Sanada Yukimura, a prominent adversary of Tokugawa rule.

22. Yaiba: Samurai Legend (1993 & 2025)

• 1993 TV Series: 1 Season | 52 Episodes – Finished
• 2025 TV Series: 1 Season | 23 Episodes – Ongoing

The Yaiba: Samurai Legend franchise has seen two very different anime adaptations, each with its own charm. The 1993 original, spanning 52 episodes, leaned heavily into classic Shounen storytelling with an episodic, lighthearted rhythm. Its silly villains, comedic moments, and slower pacing allowed ample time to savor character peculiarities and adventures, making it a nostalgic treasure for long-term fans. Though its animation was simpler, the heartfelt tone and old-school charm remain its most celebrated perks, especially among those who grew up watching it.

Fast forward to 2025, and WIT Studio’s remake reinvents the story with a dazzling modern animation, tighter pacing, and sleeker fight choreography. Slated for around 24-26 episodes, it trims fillers, pushes story arcs more efficiently, and brings Yaiba’s battles against Onimaru, the Eight Demons, and beyond to global audiences through various streaming platforms.

21. Mushibugyou (2013)

Taking place in a reimagined Feudal Japan, Mushibugyou stands out by blending historical flair with lighthearted humor, delivering an adventure that’s both refreshing and entertaining. In this twisted version of the past, humanity is far from supreme, as colossal, flesh-eating insects rule the land, creating a thrilling backdrop for the story’s action. What makes the series shine is its ability to balance excitement with charm, keeping viewers engaged from start to finish. While it may not boast the same level of spectacle as some other titles from the Spring 2013 lineup, its sheer fun and lively spirit make it impossible to overlook.

20. Peacemaker Kurogane (2003)

Despite the profound trauma of witnessing the tragic murder of his parents at the hands of the Choushuu clan, Ichimura Tetsunosuke's fervent desire for revenge propelled him to seek strength. At his young age of 15, Tetsunosuke earnestly approached the esteemed Shinsengumi, expressing his intention to become one of its disciples. But Tetsunosuke lacked the vital skill, mindset, or resolve to objectively eliminate those who posed a threat to peace and his new family. With the unwavering support of his brother and the fellowship of his newfound friends within the esteemed Shinsengumi, Tetsunosuke remained blissfully unaware of the trials and tribulations, marked by blood and pain, that awaited him as a member of this illustrious historical organization.

19. Onimusha (2023)

Onimusha is one of those mini anime series that sneaks up on you and completely blows past expectations. Loosely tied to the game series, it works beautifully as its own standalone story. What makes it shine is how it balances fast-paced action in its storytelling, but still pauses just enough for the characters to feel real, likable, and worth caring about. The fight scenes? Absolutely slick. The horror elements? They hit just right. It’s got that perfect mix of dark, gritty action and emotional weight that keeps you hooked. Honestly, it’s way more entertaining than you would ever think it would be.

18. Sengoku Basara: Samurai Kings (2010)

Season one of Sengoku Basara introduced a lot of people to the franchise boldly and stylishly. It was a colorful adaptation that stands out among video game-based anime. The series doesn't just rely on the source material’s popularity; it also has high-energy storytelling, exciting action scenes, and a wide range of characters that bring the Sengoku era to life in a unique way.

Its second season keeps up the pace, with even more intense battles and over-the-top drama, the type that fans of historical fantasy enjoy. Unlike many adaptations that feel like mere marketing tools, Samurai Kings succeeds as a work of entertainment in its own right. Though it has always flown under the radar compared to other titles of its time, it is a great and highly recommended watch, especially with its fast-paced samurai-like combat and interesting but not-so-deep storyline.

17. Samurai 7 (2004)

Being a remake of one of cinema's most influential and greatest films, Samurai 7 doesn’t just copy Seven Samurai’s key elements and character names. It adds to the lore with its steampunk setting. In a distant future where Earth is but a shadow of its former self, samurai once waged a devastating war by merging their bodies with machines. Though the conflict eventually ended, the fragile calm that followed left common folk vulnerable. The humble farmers of Kanna Village, plagued by starvation and relentless attacks from the mechanized Nobuseri bandits, turn to the path of hiring protectors. Guided by the village priestess Kirara, her spirited sister Komachi, and the grief-stricken Rikichi, they set out with nothing but rice to offer. Against all odds, seven uniquely skilled samurai arise and unite, preparing for a legendary stand.

16. Basilisk: The Kouga Ninja Scrolls (2005)

This stands as one of the finest ninja and samurai anime ever created. It is romantic, brutal, dramatic, action-filled, and profoundly beautiful.

Visually, the anime excels with a striking art style, vibrant color palette, breathtaking backgrounds, and fluid animation that shines in its fight sequences. It also features equally compelling characters; over ten central figures receive meaningful screentime and focus, each with layered backstories and depth, making them unforgettable and essential to the unfolding tragedy.

Also, the storyline reimagines the legendary Kouga vs Iga rivalry, weaving a gripping historical story that emphasizes the humanity of its warriors, their lives, loves, and struggles. It’s been referred to as an extreme version of the Romeo and Juliet story, for at its core lies a bloody deathmatch, delivered with sharp, deliberate storytelling that hooks from the opening scene to the tragic finale.

15. Shigurui: Death Frenzy (2007)

During a peaceful period at the start of the Edo Era, Lord Tokunaga Tadanada organized a combat competition. Historically, wooden swords have been used in these tournaments, but he chose to allow the use of real swords this time. This duel pits blind Irako Seigen against the one-handed Fujiki Gennosuke, both of whom are students of Japan’s best swordsman, Iwamoto Kogan. While they both fight to become their master’s heir, this singular act births a story of strife, entangled fates, and odd destinies.

Shigurui is a brilliant manga series created by the talented Takayuki Yamaguchi, drawing inspiration from the inaugural chapter of Norio Nanjo’s famous novel, Suruga-jo Gozen Jiai. Afterwards, a 12-episode anime series was crafted from the manga’s first 32 chapters, and ended up being regarded as one of the best samurai anime with top graphic violence. It does feature some bits of nudity (and is recommended for a mature audience), and has an abrupt ending that’s had fans wishing it’d get a second season.

14. House of Five Leaves – Saraiya Goyou (2010)

Imagine an anime about samurai that dares to break away from the conventional mold. No tales of legendary warriors seeking glory, no cursed blades, and no grand battles against dark overlords. Instead, the story follows a timid, unassuming swordsman whose skills are only slightly above average. His goal isn’t greatness; it's survival, earning a modest living, and caring for his younger sister (sounds a bit like Solo Leveling’s Sung Jin-woo, I know).

That grounded, quiet perspective is what makes House of Five Leaves so refreshing, as though it’s a relief/break from the clangs and clashes of swords and yells. Rather than dazzling with flashy duels or endless action, the series leans into atmosphere, character depth, and subtle tension. With only a handful of fight scenes across the entire show, it shifts the focus from spectacle to human drama, hence becoming a fascinating and rare gem for anyone who values storytelling over swordplay. 

13. Ooku: The Inner Chambers (2023)

Ōoku: The Inner Chambers is honestly one of those anime that hits you with something so fresh you can’t help but keep watching. Imagine feudal Japan turned upside down: a mysterious plague wipes out most of the men, and suddenly, women are running the show as Shoguns and rulers, while the surviving men are kept as rare, coveted concubines. That gender role flip is wild, but what makes it brilliant is how the series dives deep into power struggles, politics, and messy human emotions inside the Inner Chambers. It’s layered, bold, and absolutely gorgeous to look at, with its elegant Edo-period detail and haunting soundtrack tying everything together beautifully.

12. Blade Of The Immortal (2019)

Among the few good anime released in 2019, this series delivered an unforgettable experience. Even though the first few episodes felt erratic, the story soon settled into a rhythm, and from episode four onward, it became a gripping watch each week upon release. With its immortal, sharp-tongued samurai at the center, its tone leaned into adult themes and visceral action, capturing attention through its concept and execution. And the finale? That had a powerful impact. Of course, the series had some issues, as did the 2008 series, but its strengths far outweigh these drawbacks. 

11. The Elusive Samurai (2024)

From the shelves of Yusei Matsui, the mangaka who wrote Assassination Classroom, came a slightly different work, one that’s quite astonishing to witness, as the level of gore it presents beats any of his previous works. The Elusive Samurai can best be described as a story of psychotic perverts engaging in battles driven by their fetishes. Yes, it is a high-stakes story with a playful approach, but a great samurai anime series nonetheless.

The story revolves around a young man named Tokiyuki Houjo, who is constantly on the run. As a child, Tokiyuki Houjo was forced to witness the tragic downfall of his family, the Houjo clan, following the betrayal by Ashikaga Takauji. This betrayal led to the death of many and the persecution of the survivors. In light of these harrowing events, Tokiyuki, as one of the few survivors, takes on the responsibility of remaking his clan and seeking vengeance against Ashikaga Takauji.

10. Blue Eye Samurai

What makes Blue Eye Samurai hit so hard isn’t just the action; it’s the heart beating underneath all that steel. The setting feels alive, drenched in culture, mysticism, and grit, while the characters are more than just warriors; they’re raw, broken, and unforgettable. The protagonist’s fight for redemption and identity is gut-wrenching, and every clash of swords carries emotional weight and meaning. Then there’s the animation; absolutely jaw-dropping, with every frame feeling like a painting in motion. It’s the kind of series that feels less like you’re watching a show and more like you’re living inside a legend. Bold, brutal, and breathtaking, this is samurai storytelling redefined!

9. Drifters (2016)

Drifters is a bold and electrifying dark fantasy that wastes no time revealing its true nature. Adapted from Kouta Hirano’s manga, it throws together legendary historical figures Nasu Yoichi, Oda Nobunaga, and Shimazu Toyohisa into a violent, chaotic war between the Drifters and the Ends.

What makes the series so fascinating is its daring contrast. While the atmosphere is grim and bloody, it’s punctuated with sharp bursts of humor, keeping the tone unpredictable yet engaging. Shimazu leads with unshakable resolve, Nobunaga plots with brilliance and sarcasm, and Yoichi dazzles with deadly precision. Facing them are warped villains like Joan of Arc and Anastasia, reborn as supernatural antagonists. The result? An intoxicating mix of strategy, madness, and relentless battle.

8. Hyouge Mono (2011)

The Sengoku era is characterized by social unrest, ongoing military conflicts, and political intrigue; in fact, it may be characterized as a chaotic world where people with diverse goals clashed. Despite the chaos, the significance of aesthetics, a philosophy of art, cannot be overlooked, and it had a big impact on that age. Instead of emphasizing the several fights, Hyouge Mono highlights the value of beauty, particularly the excellent characterization of its diverse ensemble of characters. Bringing all of these together, it yields a compelling story and excellent, strategically placed comedy that lightens the mood at the right moments.

7. Hell’s Paradise – Jigokuraku (2023)

Among MAPPA’s growing list of Shounen titles, Jigokuraku shines brilliantly as a series that values substance over spectacle. Its premise alone is interesting enough: death-row convicts paired with samurai chaperones, cast onto a mysterious island to hunt for the elixir of life, all while facing grotesque monsters and god-like beings. The danger is ever-present, the atmosphere heavy with suspense and dread, and the brutality woven into the action makes every battle interesting and meaningful.

Yet what truly elevates the series is its characters. The chemistry between these convicts and their samurai chaperones develops naturally, bringing forth bonds and interactions that feel authentic yet sinister. For one who’s unkillable yet seeking death, Gabimaru’s devotion to his wife shies away from predictable tropes and gives his motivations a different outlook. While fans await a second season sometime in 2026, Gabimaru, the Hollow, remains a favorite among top anime ninja assassins.

6. Sword Of The Stranger (2007)

Released in 2007 by Studio Bones and distributed by Shochiku, Sword of the Stranger is a masterfully crafted jidaigeki-chanbara adventure that blends emotion with exhilarating swordplay. At its heart is Kotaro, a young orphan relentlessly pursued by deadly Ming assassins. His fate takes a dramatic turn when he crosses paths with Nanashi, a Ronin burdened by a mysterious past.

At the International Fantastic Film Festival held in Brazil, Stranger: Mukou Hadan earned the award for Best Animated Feature and received a nomination in the same category at the Asia Pacific Screen Awards. In 2009, it also secured the Menzione Speciale honor at the Future Film Festival in Italy. Though it did not receive an Oscar nomination, the film was included among the 14 finalists considered for the Best Animated Feature Award, where the final nominees ultimately became Kung Fu Panda, Bolt, and WALL-E.

P.S.

Ronin is a wandering samurai without a master or lord.

Jidaigeki-chanbara is a Japanese period drama (jidaigeki) that focuses on sword-fighting action, frequently including samurai and ronin, to the point that "chanbara" ("sword fight") becomes the genre's distinguishing feature.  While jidaigeki are historical plays that cover many facets of early Japanese life, chanbara is a subgenre that focuses on battle and action, resulting in a distinct sort of samurai or historical action film.

5. Dororo (1969 & 2019)

• 1969 TV Series: 1 Season | 26 Episodes – Concluded
• 2019 TV Series: 1 Season | 24 Episodes – Concluded

Dororo is a classic Japanese manga created by Osamu Tezuka, inspired by a childhood memory where his friends mispronounced the word dorobo (meaning thief) as dororo, which ultimately became the title. The manga debuted in Weekly Shounen Sunday in August 1967 but was discontinued in 1968, later reaching its conclusion in 1969 within Bōken’ō magazine by Akita Shoten. Set during Japan’s Sengoku era, the narrative follows the wandering rōnin Hyakkimaru and the young thief Dororo as they embark on a perilous journey.

The story first came to life on screen in 1969 through a 26-episode anime by Mushi Productions, notable as the earliest installment in what would later become the World Masterpiece Theater (then called Calpis Comic Theater). Beyond print and early animation, Dororo was adapted into a live-action film in 2007, and most recently, a modern 24-episode anime remake was released in 2019 by MAPPA and Tezuka Productions.

4. Afro Samurai (2007)

This 5-episode anime series was the product of a creative arrangement between Studio Gonzo, Takashi Okazaki, Samuel L. Jackson, and music by the Wu-Tang Clan’s RZA. Following its remarkable success, it then spawned a video game, an animated movie, and a short tribute live-action movie titled Afro Samurai: Flesh and Bone.

Set in a wild-west-inspired and futuristic Japan, Afro Samurai tells the story of revenge-driven Afro, a black samurai on a mission to eliminate his world’s Number 1. It is a truly amazing piece of art that goes above and beyond what is typical for its genre. Beyond its unique bandana use and peak animation, the series uses a linear gauntlet-style story to make the most of the genre’s strengths, giving it intensity, atmosphere, and unforgettable duels that make it something truly special.

3. Gintama (2006)

The idea of a samurai sit-com has been around in anime and manga for a while, but it wasn't until Sorachi Hideaki's manga began serialization in 2003 that the true potential of this storytelling style was recognized. Set in a vibrant and intriguing sort of historic Edo, Japan (and perhaps beyond), the world has been taken over by the Amanto, an alien race. The nation's mightiest warriors found themselves outmatched by the alien technology, leading to a decisive move by the authorities to prohibit humans from wielding swords in public, all to avert a second samurai uprising.

In this vibrant world, a former samurai with striking silver hair operates an odd jobs shop from his rented apartment. Occasionally, he picks up odd jobs for others to cover his rent and indulge in milkshakes and his cherished Weekly Shounen Jump.

He is Sakata Gintoki, and his purpose is to fill your heart with joy and laughter.

2. Rurouni Kenshin (Samurai X)

• 1996 TV Series: 3 Seasons | 95 Episodes | 3 Short OVA Series – Finished
• 2023 TV Series: 2 Seasons | 47 Episodes – Ongoing

Rurouni Kenshin is one of those anime that just never loses its shine. At its heart is Kenshin Himura, the wandering samurai with a reverse-blade katana, sworn never to kill again after living as the feared assassin Battōsai during the revolution. That twist alone makes it stand out, as watching a warrior trained for death dedicate his life to protecting others instead is nothing short of powerful.

The series beautifully balances heartfelt drama, hilarious slice-of-life moments, and jaw-dropping sword fights that carry real emotional weight. The characters around Kenshin, from Kaoru to Sanosuke, only add more color and charm to his journey of personal redemption and acceptance. It’s both deeply human and wildly entertaining, a rare mix of philosophy, romance, and action that makes it a true classic among anime fans.

1. Samurai Champloo (2004)

Samurai Champloo may not carry the same iconic resonance as Cowboy Bebop, yet it achieves a similar artistic purpose: melding diverse cultural influences into a singular, unforgettable style. While Cowboy Bebop fused past and future through jazz, blues, rock, kung fu, spaghetti westerns, and noir, framing outer space as a vast new frontier, Samurai Champloo takes a bolder, more unconventional path. It intertwines Edo-period Japan with the pulse of modern hip-hop and free-spirited bohemian culture, creating a strikingly original atmosphere. Even its title reflects this vision: “Champloo” is derived from the Okinawan word chanpurū, meaning “to mix,” symbolizing both cultural blending and Okinawa’s enduring pride in its embrace of diversity.

Samurai Champloo is undoubtedly the best Samurai anime ever made! (Argue with your keyboard.) And this is true, as very few series come close to it, with its gripping tale of Fuu, Mugen, and Jin journeying across Edo Japan in search of the “samurai who smells of sunflowers.” It features the perfect mix of slick swordplay, witty banter, and stylistic hip-hop flair that creates a timeless masterpiece. 

Leaving Japan’s Old Eras

The above selection is sufficient proof that there is more to the life of a samurai back in the old but golden Sengoku, Edo, Heian, and Meiji Eras than just swinging blades and spattered blood. These stories show us honor, betrayal, love, revenge, and the weight of choices that echo louder than steel itself.

What makes samurai anime so special is how they can be both fierce and poetic, mixing thunderous battles with quiet moments of reflection, where a single glance can carry more meaning than a hundred words. Whether it’s Kenshin’s vow of redemption, Mugen and Jin’s chaotic journey, or the raw grit of Blade of the Immortal, each series breathes life into a world long gone yet forever timeless. And honestly, that’s the magic, samurai anime never just entertains, it stirs something inside you, reminding you why legends like these refuse to fade.