A roundup of anime popular with upper elementary school kids, including buzzworthy titles

Dragon Quest: The Adventure of Dai

[Watchalong] Dragon Quest: The Adventure of Dai (2020) Episodes 52–58 [Takane Lui / hololive]

Dai no Daibouken (Dragon Quest: The Adventure of Dai) is a grand adventure tale about Dai, a boy who dreams of becoming a hero, as he faces powerful foes alongside his companions.

Set in a world of swords and sorcery, it features thrilling battles and a growth-driven drama, making it a great recommendation for upper elementary school kids.

Through clashes with enemies, the story teaches the value of friendship and courage, and each character’s unique personality is part of the appeal.

Beyond the fights, many scenes portray trust among comrades and inner conflicts, making it easy to become emotionally invested.

The original work has been beloved for many years, and its anime adaptation has brought it renewed attention from today’s children.

It’s especially recommended for fans of action and adventure, and it’s sure to spark lively conversations with friends—an exciting, adventure-filled series that fires the imagination.

Haikyu!!

Special Anime “Haikyu!! Where the Monsters Go” Teaser PV

Haikyu!! is an anime series themed around high school volleyball.

It’s one of the most popular sports anime, so many of you may already know it.

The protagonist, Shoyo Hinata, isn’t blessed with height, but thanks to his exceptional jumping ability and athleticism, he earns a spot as a regular on the team.

It’s a coming-of-age story that portrays him growing as he hones both skill and spirit alongside his teammates and rivals.

As students reach the upper grades, choosing a middle school club becomes a hot topic, doesn’t it? Be sure to give it a watch.

Kaiju No. 8

“Demonstrate Overwhelming ‘Ability’” / From Kaiju No. 8 Episode 13 (Season 2, Episode 1) “Kaiju Weapon” #shorts

Kaiju No.

8 is a recommended series for upper-elementary students who love battle anime.

The protagonist, Kafka Hibino, once aimed to join the Defense Force to keep a promise to his childhood friend, but after repeatedly failing the exams, he gave up.

However, meeting Reno Ichikawa inspires him to try again.

The battles with kaiju are intense, and the strong Defense Force members are simply cool.

Watching Kafka overcome the hurdles of age and ability to grow is genuinely moving.

Hanakappa

TV anime “Hanakappa” opening theme “Pi-Pi-Pao!” video

Hanakappa is an anime mainly aimed at preschoolers and lower elementary school children, but plenty of older kids like it too.

The protagonist is Hanakappa, an elementary school kappa who can make flowers bloom on his head.

The story unfolds in Yamabiko Village, where Hanakappa lives.

The adventures and commotions he experiences are full of appeal for kids! When Hanakappa is in a pinch or needs to solve something, he makes various flowers bloom, so children naturally learn about flowers as well.

The everyday elementary school moments and interactions with friends are also highlights.

Digimon Adventure

[Official] Digimon Adventure Episode 1: "Drifting? The Island of Adventure!"

The anime Digimon Adventure, which aired in 1999, is a story about children who get lost in another world and embark on an adventure.

Their encounters with Digimon in the Digital World, and the way each of them grows and deepens their bonds throughout their journey, resonated with viewers.

The unique personalities and action of the Digimon are part of the appeal, and the emotion and intensity come through especially strongly in the evolution scenes.

The children each struggle with their own issues, and many viewers likely related to watching them move forward while grappling with their worries.

Dragon Ball GT

[Official] Dragon Ball GT Episode 1: "Mysterious DB Appears!! Goku Turns Into a Child!?"

Dragon Ball GT, which began airing in 1996, is the sequel to the anime Dragon Ball Z that had been broadcast up to that point.

Since the original manga’s story ends with Dragon Ball Z, people were also interested in what new developments would unfold from there.

The series follows Son Goku, who has been turned back into a child, as he embarks on a space-traveling adventure with his granddaughter Pan and Trunks.

This adventure-centric storyline evokes the early days of the original series.

With encounters with unique characters on various planets, the show offers appeal beyond just the battles.