Recommended popular anime from the 2000s

Detective Conan

[Official] Detective Conan “Roller Coaster Murder Case” | Season 1, Episode 1

Detective Conan is a mystery anime about Shinichi Kudo, a high school detective who is forced into a child’s body by a mysterious organization and solves numerous difficult cases as elementary schooler Conan Edogawa.

Since its debut in 1996, it has been loved by audiences of all ages as a nationally beloved series.

In addition to its authentic mystery elements with intricate tricks, its distinctive characters are a major draw, and the story’s shifts from comedic to serious keep viewers engrossed.

Not only the TV anime but also the feature films attract attention, giving the impression of a franchise whose momentum shows no sign of slowing.

Hell Teacher Nūbē

Hell Teacher Nūbē Official PV Teaser 1

The anime Hell Teacher Nūbē is a horror-comedy set in an elementary school that aired in 1996.

The protagonist, Meisuke Nueno, is a clumsy, easygoing teacher on the surface, but in reality he’s the most powerful psychic, endowed with the power of an oni.

He exorcises the yokai and evil spirits that attack his students using the “Oni Hand” in his left arm.

It’s compelling to see the distinctive characters deepen their bonds through the troubles caused by these yokai and spirits.

The depictions that convey the terror of the supernatural, combined with moments of humor and tears, create a dynamic rhythm in the story that captivated viewers’ hearts.

Magic Knight Rayearth

[Episodes 1–3 Pack] Magic Knight Rayearth: “Legendary Magic Knights Activate,” “Presea, Creator of the Silent Forest,” and “The Mysterious Handsome Swordsman, Ferio” (1994)

The anime Magic Knight Rayearth is a fantasy series based on CLAMP’s manga.

It depicts three girls who are summoned to an alternate world called Cephiro and set out on a journey as Magic Knights to save it from crisis.

Set in a realm of swords and sorcery, the story’s appeal lies in how the girls fight and grow.

Another highlight is the beautiful artwork characteristic of CLAMP’s works; the delicate designs further accentuate the worldbuilding.

Along with its theme song, “Yuzurenai Negai” (Unyielding Wish), it’s a title that has surely left its mark on anime history.

D·N·A² ~That Someone’s Something I Lost Somewhere~

Trivia about DNA²: Aitsu no Aitsu I Lost Somewhere

The anime “D·N·A²: Dokoka de Nakushita Aitsu no Aitsu” is based on Masakazu Katsura’s manga and aired in 1994.

It has a strong sci-fi storyline in which Karin Aoi, a DNA operator, travels from the future to modify the DNA of the protagonist, Junta Momonari.

Despite its sci-fi elements, it also unfolds as a romantic comedy, and that contrast drew attention.

It’s also remembered for detailed tidbits, such as having theme songs performed by L’Arc~en~Ciel and Sharan Q just before their big break.

Chibi Maruko-chan

Chibi Maruko-chan The Movie: The Boy from Italy | Chibi Maruko-chan: The Boy from Italy (2015) | Chibi Maruko-chan: A Boy from Italy

Based on the manga by Momoko Sakura, this work has continued to be loved by people of all ages since it began airing in 1990, to the point that it can be called a national anime.

Through the perspective of the protagonist, Maruko, nostalgic Showa-era scenery and the small happenings common in childhood are depicted with humor.

A key point is that the main character reflects the author, Momoko Sakura, and together with her distinctive friends, the everyday lives of children at the time are conveyed with a comedic yet realistic touch.

It’s a series that reminds us of the important things in daily life—family bonds, friendships, and the small joys of everyday moments.