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.
- Recommended love songs for people in their 80s: A collection of classic love songs that colored the Showa era
- [For Seniors] Recommended spring songs for people in their 90s: A collection of Shōwa-era spring tunes
- Anime songs recommended for people in their 70s: nostalgic theme songs that let you feel the history of anime.
- A must-see for the Showa generation! Nostalgic popular snacks from the old days
- List of popular Showa-era actresses that bring back memories: introducing iconic stars who evoke nostalgia
- The Complete Guide to Showa-Era Toys: From Showa retro to toys still loved today
- [Showa TV Special] Beloved Classic Shows & Heroes of Our Memories
- A nostalgic feature on Showa-era magazines: looking back at the popular magazines of the time.
- The nostalgic world of Showa-era films. Revisiting masterpieces that linger in the heart.
- Nostalgic shōjo manga from the Showa era. A collection of masterpieces representing the times.
- [For Seniors] Nationally Beloved and Popular Anime Quiz: Get excited with famous characters and iconic catchphrases
- [Nostalgic Memories] Popular Menu Items from Showa-Era School Lunches
- Nostalgic cars from the Showa era: A special feature on memorable classic cars spotted on street corners
Showa-era popular anime special. Looking back at the hit anime of the time! (1–10)
Astro Boy
The sci-fi anime Astro Boy is based on Osamu Tezuka’s manga.
The first TV anime aired for four years starting in 1963, and it was later remade and broadcast with changes to its content.
Although Astro Boy was raised like a human child under Dr.
Ochanomizu, he was originally created by a man named Dr.
Tenma in the image of his deceased son.
Aiming for a world where humans and robots can coexist harmoniously, Astro Boy vividly reflects a future in which robotics advances alongside the eras from Showa to Heisei and Reiwa.
It became popular not only in Japan but also overseas.
Doraemon
A receiver that lets you watch people’s dreams! Let me introduce the Doraemon gadget “Dream TV.” This television shows you the images from someone’s dreams while they’re sleeping.
After Nobita learns how Dream TV works, he gets the idea to peek into Suneo’s and Shizuka’s dreams.
Using this gadget, you can choose the dreams you want to watch and enjoy experiencing all kinds of dream worlds.
You can freely go on adventures in dreams or meet your favorite characters.
Will Nobita be able to use it well? It’s a story that makes dreams even more fun and enriching.
Future Boy Conan
Introducing Future Boy Conan, the 1978 animated work directed by Hayao Miyazaki.
The story is set on a future Earth and follows the adventures of Conan, a boy with special powers, who, together with a beautiful girl named Lana, confronts the conflict between humans and machines.
In its stage adaptation, the charm of the anime is preserved while acting, music, and visual technology are employed to vividly recreate the story’s emotional impact.
A stage filled with Conan’s courage, friendship, and spirit of adventure will surely resonate not only with longtime fans but also with those new to the story.
Be sure to experience both the anime and the stage production!
Showa-Era Popular Anime Special: A Look Back at the Hit Shows of the Time! (11–20)
Ashita no Joe
Ashita no Joe is a boxing anime based on the original story by Asao Takamori with artwork by Tetsuya Chiba.
TV anime adaptations aired in 1970 and 1980, followed by animated and live-action films.
Not only the protagonist, Joe Yabuki, but also his rival, Toru Rikiishi, gained immense popularity, and it’s said that when Rikiishi died, fans were overcome with grief.
Joe, who was rough around the edges at first, grows to believe in his own punches and challenges the world champion—a journey that moved many people.
Space Battleship Yamato
Many of you have probably heard Isao Sasaki’s powerful vocals from the theme song of Space Battleship Yamato.
Space Battleship Yamato is a Japanese animated series that aired in 1974 and depicts a grand adventure set in space.
The story begins as Earth is invaded by the alien race known as the Gamilas, prompting the Space Battleship Yamato to rise to the challenge.
The Yamato’s crew sets out for the enemy world Iscandar, overcoming numerous trials to save their home, Earth.
The work weaves in themes such as the bonds of comrades, self-sacrifice, and hope for the future, and it continues to be beloved by many people even today.
City Hunter
City Hunter: Angel’s Tears (The Movie) is a new film based on the popular manga and anime City Hunter.
It follows the protagonist, Ryo Saeba, as he tackles a brand-new case.
This trailer showcases his unique antics and the strong bonds he shares with his companions.
You can also enjoy tense action sequences and powerful, high-impact CG visuals.
Anticipation is high for Ryo’s charm and the unfolding story! Packed with adventure, humor, and friendship, this is a film that audiences of all ages can enjoy.
If it piques your interest, be sure to check out the anime and manga as well!
Touch
The anime “Touch,” also famous for its theme song sung by Yoshimi Iwasaki, remains beloved by many fans along with the series’ enduring popularity.
Iwasaki’s clear, pure vocals heightened the story’s bittersweet coming-of-age atmosphere.
The song centers on the themes of delicate youthful love and friendship, with melodies and lyrics that resonate deeply.
Even now, it evokes both nostalgia and freshness.
The collaboration with the visuals is also excellent—the characters’ growth and inner conflicts echo with the music, enriching the depth of the story.
Be sure to listen to the song alongside the anime and manga.