A roundup of anime popular among lower-grade elementary school students

Nintama Rantarō

Nintama Rantarō 30th Anniversary Broadcast Special PV (Still to Come ver.)

Nintama Rantarō is an anime that depicts the slightly unusual everyday life at a ninja school, with the appeal of easy-to-follow stories.

Since it began airing in 1993, it has continued to capture children’s hearts for a long time.

In 2023, it celebrated its 30th anniversary, and a commemorative best album, “NHK Anime Nintama Rantarō 30 years anniversary THE BEST SONGS,” was released.

Featuring songs by various artists—including the opening theme “Yuuki 100%”—the music brings the anime’s world to life.

Packed with episodes that parents and children can enjoy together, it’s an anime that gives you energy just by watching.

Thomas the Tank Engine: Search for Santa! Percy's Christmas Express

[Teaser Short] In theaters 12/12: 'Thomas & Friends the Movie: Find Santa! Percy's Christmas Express'

On Christmas Eve on the Island of Sodor, the air is filled with twinkling lights and the sweet aroma of baking cookies.

Amid it all, Thomas’s best friend Percy discovers a mishap: one letter to Santa hasn’t been delivered.

Realizing that a child’s wish won’t come true unless it’s delivered today, Percy sets off with Thomas and friends on a grand adventure to find Santa.

Racing along snow-covered tracks and searching the skies filled with stars, their journey feels like stepping into a picture book.

Seeing Percy never give up and trust his friends warms the hearts of not only children but adults too.

This film, where kindness and the belief in miracles intertwine, is a perfect choice for a winter night.

Poupelle of Chimney Town

‘Poupelle of Chimney Town’ The Movie - Trailer 1 [In theaters December 25]

A town full of chimneys, covered in smoke.

No one has ever seen the night sky.

Yet the chimney-sweeper boy, Lubicchi, alone keeps believing, “Beyond this smoke, there are stars.” One Halloween night, a red, glowing mass falls from the sky and becomes Poupelle, a garbage man, who meets Lubicchi.

Though disliked by the townspeople, the two gradually open their hearts to each other.

Before long, Poupelle becomes the one who supports Lubicchi’s belief.

This is a moving tale about the courage to take a step forward without fearing to believe—perfect for Christmas.

Its world of fantastical visuals and music gently embraces the hearts of all who watch.

Pocket Monsters

[Official] Anime “Pokémon” Episode 1: “Pokémon! I Choose You!” (Anipoke Selection)

It feels like the Pokémon franchise, which began as a Nintendo game, became a social phenomenon in large part thanks to the anime that started airing in 1997.

The story of the protagonist, Satoshi (Ash), journeying with his partner Pikachu to become a Pokémon Master sparked a spirit of adventure in many children.

The encounters with unique Pokémon, the heated battles, and the bonds with friends are the kind of elements that stir the heart no matter the era.

With each new game release, the anime weaves in fresh elements, and at times looks back on the past—storytelling made possible by its long-running history, which is a big part of its appeal.

Zenitendō: The Mysterious Candy Shop

[Official] Anime 'Fushigi Dagashiya Zenitendo' Episode 1: 'Cut-out Mermaid Gummies'

The Mysterious Candy Shop Zenitendo is an anime that’s hugely popular with lower elementary school children.

It began in 2020, and the mysterious candies that appear in the show leave a deep impression on kids.

The special sweets offered by Beniko, the shop’s owner, can make dreams come true when eaten, but if used the wrong way, unexpected things happen—teaching various lessons.

Through the adventures of Beniko and her pet black cat, Sumi-maru, children learn the importance of making choices.

The stories are simple and easy to understand, and the gentle worldbuilding is also very appealing.

This heartwarming anime is perfect for families to enjoy together.

Chibi Godzilla Strikes Back

[Official] TV Anime “Chibi Godzilla Raids Again” — “Chibi JJ, Ally of Justice”

Starring Chibi Godzilla, this work depicts him not as a monster of destruction but spending a laid-back everyday life with his friends.

Its appeal lies in an easy-to-understand storyline for elementary schoolers and brisk, well-timed gags.

The humorous interactions with the surrounding kaiju mirror situations children experience in daily life, offering plenty of moments that are both funny and relatable.

Each episode runs about three minutes, so it stays engaging without dragging, and it’s a perfect gateway for those encountering the hugely popular Godzilla character for the first time.

Brimming with charm, it’s a work that can spark conversation when watched together by parents and children.

Blue Lock

TV anime “BLUELOCK” Season 2, 1st teaser PV | Broadcasting starts Saturday, October 5!

This work, which depicts a project to cultivate egoists that overturns conventional soccer wisdom, is an anime that sets your heart ablaze as the protagonist grows while searching for his own style.

With high-speed match scenes, mind games with teammates, and psychological battles, it captivates viewers and has garnered overwhelming support from sports-loving elementary school students.

The characters’ distinctive play styles and evolving relationships will strongly grab children’s attention.

The exhilarating story drives forward while asking what it means to have strength that’s uniquely your own, making it a passionate work that inspires you to pursue your dreams in earnest.