Anime is known for its colourful characters, exciting adventures and imaginative worlds. But some of the most interesting stories take inspiration from history. These shows introduce viewers to ancient kingdoms, royal families, samurai warriors and different periods of the past.
Historical anime can also be a good way to explore different cultures and lifestyles. Some focus on real historical events, while others mix fictional characters with settings inspired by actual places and time periods.
From royal court mysteries to stories about warriors and political struggles, there is something for every kind of viewer. Here are seven historical anime worth adding to your watchlist.
1. The Apothecary Diaries
The Apothecary Diaries is a historical mystery anime set in a fictional imperial court inspired by ancient China. It follows Maomao, a young woman with strong knowledge of medicines and herbal remedies.
After being taken to work in the royal palace, she becomes involved in solving unusual problems affecting people inside the court.
Maomao is intelligent, curious and often more interested in finding answers than gaining attention. Her knowledge helps her understand mysteries that others struggle to solve.
The series combines palace life, mystery and interesting characters. Its detailed setting and clever main character make it a good choice for viewers who enjoy stories involving royal families and hidden secrets.
2. Vinland Saga
Vinland Saga is a historical action anime inspired by the Viking Age. The story follows Thorfinn, a young boy whose life changes after a tragic event involving his family.
As he grows older, he becomes connected with a group of Viking warriors and gets caught up in battles and political conflicts.
The anime features sea journeys, powerful leaders and the difficult lives of people during that period. However, it is not only about fighting. It also explores revenge, personal choices and the meaning of peace.
Viewers who enjoy serious storytelling and historical settings may find Vinland Saga especially interesting.
3. Kingdom
Kingdom takes viewers to ancient China during the Warring States period, when several kingdoms fought for control of the land.
The story follows Xin, a young man who dreams of becoming a great general. He forms a close connection with Ying Zheng, who later becomes the king of Qin.
Together, they face difficult challenges while working towards their ambitions.
The anime includes large battle scenes, military strategies and political decisions. It also shows how leaders and soldiers influence the future of a kingdom.
Kingdom is a strong option for viewers who enjoy historical war stories and long-running adventures.
4. Golden Kamuy
Golden Kamuy is set in Hokkaido during the early 20th century, after the Russo-Japanese War. It follows Saichi Sugimoto, a former soldier searching for hidden gold.
During his journey, he meets Asirpa, an Ainu girl who has knowledge of the land and its traditions. They work together while facing different groups searching for the same treasure.
One of the most interesting parts of the anime is its attention to Ainu culture, including food, customs and traditional knowledge.
The story mixes adventure, humour, survival and historical details. It is a good choice for viewers who want something different from traditional samurai stories.
5. Rurouni Kenshin
Rurouni Kenshin is set during Japan’s Meiji era, a period of major social and political change.
The main character, Kenshin Himura, is a former swordsman who decides to live a peaceful life. He travels with a reversed-blade sword and tries to help people rather than take lives.
His past, however, continues to follow him. As he meets new friends and enemies, he must deal with the consequences of his earlier actions.
The anime features sword fights, friendships and the changing lifestyle of people in Japan during the Meiji period.
It is a good pick for viewers interested in samurai stories and historical Japanese settings.
6. The Heike Story
The Heike Story is based on events surrounding the rise and fall of the Taira clan in 12th-century Japan.
The story follows Biwa, a young girl who can see events connected to the future. She becomes connected with members of the powerful Heike family and witnesses their changing fortunes.
The anime explores family rivalries, political struggles and the cost of power. It also shows how the actions of powerful people can affect ordinary lives.
Its artistic presentation and emotional storytelling make it different from many action-focused historical anime.
Viewers interested in Japanese history and traditional storytelling may enjoy this series.
7. Arte
Arte is set in Renaissance-era Florence, Italy. It follows a young woman named Arte who dreams of becoming an artist.
At a time when women face many restrictions in professional life, Arte decides to follow her passion despite opposition from people around her.
She searches for an opportunity to learn painting and eventually begins working under an artist named Leo.
The series explores art, ambition, social expectations and the challenges of building a career. Its setting also gives viewers a glimpse of the streets, workshops and culture of Renaissance Florence.
Arte is a refreshing choice for viewers who prefer character-focused historical stories over battles and political conflicts.
Which Historical Anime Should You Watch First?
The best choice depends on the kind of story you enjoy. The Apothecary Diaries is ideal for viewers who like royal court mysteries, while Vinland Saga and Kingdom offer intense historical adventures.
Golden Kamuy brings together treasure hunting and cultural details, while Rurouni Kenshin is a good option for samurai fans. If you prefer slower stories with art and history, Arte and The Heike Story are worth exploring.
These anime show that history can provide many different kinds of stories. Whether you enjoy ancient kingdoms, traditional culture or personal journeys, historical anime can make the past interesting through memorable characters and engaging storytelling.
