Special feature on popular anime from the Showa era. Looking back at the hit shows of the time!
During the Showa era, countless popular anime series emerged, and many became so beloved that they turned into full-on social phenomena.
Many of these works are still celebrated today as timeless classics, and the charm each one holds hasn’t faded a bit.
In this article, we’ll introduce a wide range of anime born in the Showa era all at once!
From long-running series that have been loved for years to legendary titles, it’s a treasure trove of nostalgic works—so please take your time and enjoy.
Showa-era popular anime special. Looking back at the hit anime of the time! (1–10)
Heidi, Girl of the Alps
Let me introduce the opening of the animated series Heidi, Girl of the Alps, depicted alongside beautiful Alpine scenery.
Heidi is a little girl who lives in the mountains of the Alps.
She loves nature and animals, and spends happy days with her grandfather and friends.
The opening theme has a bright and lively melody that expresses Heidi’s innocence and her connection with nature.
The warmth of the story—conveying the importance of friendship and family, as well as the beauty of nature—comes through even from the opening, doesn’t it?
Dr. Slump Arale-chan
Dr.
Slump Arale-chan is an anime that became a big hit in the 1980s, known for its distinctive and charming stories.
Many people probably know it as a work by Akira Toriyama, the creator of Dragon Ball.
Both the opening and ending themes capture Arale’s cuteness and the series’ delightful episodes.
Watching the opening video is sure to fill you with nostalgia as you see Arale and her friends in their lively everyday antics! Take a moment to revisit and enjoy this anime packed with colorful characters, unique lines, and fun music!
Urusei Yatsura
Let me introduce a video from the anime Urusei Yatsura.
The opening theme is MAISONdes’s “AIUE feat.
Minami, SAKURAmoti.” In this video, you can enjoy the anime’s captivating visuals set to the song.
Many of you might know it from the classic series.
Urusei Yatsura is based on the manga of the same name by Rumiko Takahashi.
It’s a slapstick romantic comedy about the alien girl Lum and high schooler Ataru Moroboshi, filled with love and laughs.
It remains beloved by many fans even today.
Its stylish direction and fun music leave a strong impression, so if you’re interested, be sure to check out both the anime and the manga.
Lupin the Third
Let me introduce the beloved national anime Lupin the Third Part II, which aired in 1977.
This series is based on the manga by Monkey Punch, and its protagonist, Lupin III, is a world-class thief.
Together with his companions, he takes on a variety of adventures.
In this work, Lupin devises ingenious plans, and the stories are full of humor and thrills.
The anime’s style is distinctive, blending action and comedy to great effect.
Many people still love the image of Lupin in his red jacket.
It’s a captivating series featuring the unique escapades of its thief characters, and if you’re interested in a work that continues to be highly regarded even today, be sure to check it out.
Fist of the North Star
Episode 1 of Fist of the North Star is set in a devastated future world.
In this episode, the protagonist Kenshiro appears and rises to save people suffering at the hands of villains.
Kenshiro is a master of the powerful martial art Hokuto Shinken, giving him the ability to defeat enemies in an instant.
He stands as a symbol of hope for the survivors, and through his battles the triumph of justice is depicted.
His nemeses and the companions he meets also add depth to the story.
Themes of friendship and love run through the work as well.
If you’re interested, be sure to check out the original manga.
Dragon Ball
Introducing the video of Dragon Ball Episode 1, “Bulma and Son Goku.” This work is by the original creator Akira Toriyama.
The story begins with the meeting of Son Goku, a mysterious young martial artist, and Bulma, a girl in search of adventure.
Bulma is the daughter of a scientist looking for the Dragon Balls, and she embarks on a journey with Goku using their power.
Goku is incredibly strong and a master of martial arts, but he’s also somewhat naive about the world.
In this episode, the foundations of their characters and friendship are built, setting up the dramatic developments to come.
Please enjoy revisiting the very first chapter of a long story that follows!
Mobile Suit Gundam
Introducing Episode 1 of Mobile Suit Gundam.
This is the beginning of a story set in Universal Century 0079.
Two factions—the Earth Federation and the Principality of Zeon—are in conflict, and the protagonist, Amuro Ray, makes his appearance.
By chance, Amuro ends up piloting a powerful mobile suit called the Gundam and is drawn into the war.
Through his experiences with both allies and enemies, he grows and faces various inner conflicts.
In Episode 1, the tension of battle and the characters’ personalities are depicted, introducing key elements that form the foundation of the entire series.
The Gundam’s design and the robot action are also compelling, so even if you’re not familiar with the series but are curious, be sure to check it out.