Calling all 20-somethings! A roundup of nostalgic anime from the 2000s to the 2010s
Anime, a cultural treasure Japan has long been proud of.
Some titles become huge hits with film adaptations or even spark trends that define an era.
In this article, we’ve carefully selected popular anime that will feel especially nostalgic for people in their 20s.
Focusing on works from the 2000s to the 2010s, we chose titles whose popularity hasn’t faded.
Some have ongoing series that continue to air today or have been adapted into films.
Take this opportunity to revisit them!
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Calling all 20-somethings! A roundup of nostalgic anime [2000s–2010s] (21–30)
Kaiketsu Zorori
I’d like to introduce Kaiketsu Zorori as a work familiar to many people.
Not only was the anime a hit, but I imagine quite a few of you also had the original children’s books in your school library.
As for the anime, it’s crafted as a gag series with self-contained, single-episode stories.
Of course, the beloved characters Ishishi and Noshishi make appearances, and you can enjoy their classic banter.
I should also mention that in recent years its social media accounts have been going viral.
Wishing Upon Mirmo!
Mirmo! is a fantasy anime that was broadcast in 16 countries around the world.
It follows the fairy Mirmo and his friends as they deepen their relationship with a human girl, Kaede Minami.
While the show mainly features heartwarming everyday life, it sometimes includes battle scenes and romantic elements as well.
That may be one reason it appeals to such a wide audience.
There are four seasons in total, so check the order as you watch.
By the way, the first season has 78 episodes.
Sound! Euphonium
Set in a high school concert band, this work portrays the youth of its protagonists as they struggle and grow.
It’s not just a glittering coming-of-age story; it also thoughtfully weaves in worries unique to high schoolers, such as clashes with friends and complicated relationships with parents.
True to the original theme that effort is rewarded—though not always in the way one hopes—the characters’ determination to move forward despite their doubts leaves a strong impression.
From the shifting concerns that come with differences in grade level and status to performance scenes that convey their full commitment, the work offers a wide range of compelling qualities.
Kirarin☆Revolution
Kirarin Revolution is the story of middle schooler Kirari Tsukishima, who strives to become a true idol.
Originally a manga series by An Nakahara serialized in the magazine Ciao, it was adapted into an anime that aired starting in 2006.
Koharu Kusumi from Morning Musume was cast as the protagonist’s voice actor.
At the time, it was rare for an active idol to voice a character in a TV anime.
Doesn’t it bring back memories of the butterflies from the romance, or the longing for that sparkling youth you felt when you watched it?
Hamtaro
Just seeing the title makes me feel like I can hear that voice and that intro! It’s the anime Hamtaro, full of the hamsters’ slapstick antics.
Based on the manga by Ritsuko Kawai, the anime series began airing in 2000.
A whole cast of unique hamsters appeared and brought smiles to living rooms everywhere.
I bet you have your own favorite Ham-chan too.
There were also dedicated game titles released for systems like the Game Boy Advance.
Curious George
The animated series “Curious George” is based on the picture book series “Curious George.” The protagonist, George, is a little monkey, so he doesn’t speak.
But through his gestures and expressive face, you can tell what he wants to do and what he’s thinking.
In these charming stories, George dives into all kinds of adventures and mishaps—and solves them—making the show hugely popular with children! The lack of dialogue sparks the imagination and draws viewers into George’s world.
If you haven’t seen it yet, be sure to give it a try.
Revolutionary Girl Utena
Revolutionary Girl Utena, which aired in 1997, is a work that depicts the struggles of a girl named Utena Tenjou, who admires princes and wishes to become one herself.
Beyond its experimental direction and avant-garde visual expression, it drew attention for exploring universal and profound themes such as adolescent turmoil, sexuality, and questioning established values.
Perhaps the greatest appeal of the series lies in the human drama woven by its distinctive characters, including the protagonist Utena and Anthy.
Even those who found it hard to understand at the time may discover new insights when they revisit it as adults.