Calling all 20-somethings! A roundup of nostalgic anime from the 2000s to the 2010s
Anime, a cultural treasure Japan has long been proud of.
Some titles become huge hits with film adaptations or even spark trends that define an era.
In this article, we’ve carefully selected popular anime that will feel especially nostalgic for people in their 20s.
Focusing on works from the 2000s to the 2010s, we chose titles whose popularity hasn’t faded.
Some have ongoing series that continue to air today or have been adapted into films.
Take this opportunity to revisit them!
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Calling all 20-somethings! A roundup of nostalgic anime [2000s–2010s] (21–30)
Rurouni Kenshin: Meiji Swordsman Romantic Story
Rurouni Kenshin: Meiji Swordsman Romantic Story is a work that portrays how a swordsman said to be the strongest at the end of the Edo period lived on in the Meiji era.
It depicts the protagonist, Kenshin Himura—once feared as the manslayer Battōsai—taking a vow never to kill and helping those in need.
The story is compelling, from Kenshin’s past and inner turmoil to his interactions with a cast of fascinating allies and his ferocious battles with arch-enemies.
The intense action set in a world like a period drama stirred the hearts of viewers.
It is a long‑loved series that helped support Shonen Jump’s golden age.
Sound! Euphonium
Set in a high school concert band, this work portrays the youth of its protagonists as they struggle and grow.
It’s not just a glittering coming-of-age story; it also thoughtfully weaves in worries unique to high schoolers, such as clashes with friends and complicated relationships with parents.
True to the original theme that effort is rewarded—though not always in the way one hopes—the characters’ determination to move forward despite their doubts leaves a strong impression.
From the shifting concerns that come with differences in grade level and status to performance scenes that convey their full commitment, the work offers a wide range of compelling qualities.
Calling all 20-somethings! A roundup of nostalgic anime [2000s–2010s] (31–40)
Pocket Monsters
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.
Hamtaro
Just seeing the title makes me feel like I can hear that voice and that intro! It’s the anime Hamtaro, full of the hamsters’ slapstick antics.
Based on the manga by Ritsuko Kawai, the anime series began airing in 2000.
A whole cast of unique hamsters appeared and brought smiles to living rooms everywhere.
I bet you have your own favorite Ham-chan too.
There were also dedicated game titles released for systems like the Game Boy Advance.
Ojamajo Doremi
I bet there are quite a few people who love singing the opening theme at karaoke! The magical girl anime Ojamajo Doremi began airing in 1999.
Its popularity comes from stories full of humor, tears, and heartfelt humanity.
That spell you can’t help but chant yourself is probably a nostalgic memory too.
In 2020, the 20th-anniversary film Looking for Magical Doremi was also released.
It’s a story that especially resonates with those who watched Ojamajo Doremi as children.
Revolutionary Girl Utena
Revolutionary Girl Utena, which aired in 1997, is a work that depicts the struggles of a girl named Utena Tenjou, who admires princes and wishes to become one herself.
Beyond its experimental direction and avant-garde visual expression, it drew attention for exploring universal and profound themes such as adolescent turmoil, sexuality, and questioning established values.
Perhaps the greatest appeal of the series lies in the human drama woven by its distinctive characters, including the protagonist Utena and Anthy.
Even those who found it hard to understand at the time may discover new insights when they revisit it as adults.
Free!
This work portrays the protagonist and other characters set in a high school swim team.
The fact that it was produced by Kyoto Animation also drew attention, and its delicate visuals are considered a major attraction of the piece.
Since competitive swimming is the theme, the movements of the body during sports and the depiction of water splashing are especially striking.
With a newly established swim team and members gradually gathering, the story that lets you feel the club’s growth is also quite appealing, isn’t it?