A 37-episode anime television series adaptation, produced by Madhouse and directed by Tetsurō Araki, was broadcast on Nippon Television from October 2006 to June 2007. The story follows Light Yagami, a genius high school student who discovers a mysterious notebook: the "Death Note", which belonged to the shinigami Ryuk, and grants the user the supernatural ability to kill anyone whose name is written in its pages.

The series centers around Light's subsequent attempts to use the Death Note to carry out a worldwide massacre of individuals whom he deems immoral and to create a crime-free society, using the alias of a god-like vigilante named "Kira", and the subsequent efforts of an elite Japanese police task force, led by enigmatic detective L, to apprehend him.

"Death Note" is recommended for people who want to learn Japanese because this anime features realistic and contemporary Japanese dialogue, making it a valuable resource for learners who want to understand how people speak in everyday situations. Moreover, the series includes a wide range of vocabulary, from casual conversations to more formal and technical language. This diversity helps learners expand their Japanese vocabulary.

The intriguing plot and intense character interactions can motivate learners to continue watching, providing consistent exposure to the language. "Death Note" also offers insights into Japanese culture, societal norms, and the criminal justice system, contributing to cultural immersion.

Directed by: Tetsurō Araki

Air dates: October 2006

IMDb rating: 8.9

"Dragon Ball" is a highly influential and popular anime series created by Akira Toriyama. It originally began as a manga in 1984 and was later adapted into several anime series, starting with "Dragon Ball" in 1986. The anime franchise is known for its action-packed battles, memorable characters, and epic adventures.

The "Dragon Ball" series follows the adventures of Son Goku, a young martial artist with a monkey tail and incredible strength. Goku embarks on a journey to search for the Dragon Balls, seven mystical orbs that, when gathered, can summon the dragon Shenron, who grants one wish. Along the way, Goku makes friends and encounters powerful foes, leading to epic battles and the discovery of his own Saiyan heritage.

Key Series within "Dragon Ball":

• Dragon Ball: The original series follows Goku's childhood adventures and his quest for the Dragon Balls. It introduces key characters like Bulma, Master Roshi, and Krillin.
  
• Dragon Ball Z: This series continues Goku's story as an adult and introduces the concept of Saiyans, extraterrestrial warriors with incredible power. It features iconic battles against foes like Frieza, Cell, and Majin Buu.
  
• Dragon Ball Super: A continuation of "Dragon Ball Z," "Super" explores even more powerful threats, introduces new characters like Beerus and Whis, and expands the Dragon Ball lore.

Directed by: Daisuke Nishio

Air dates: February 26, 1986

IMDb rating: 8.8

"Detective Conan", also known as "Case Closed" in some regions, is a long-running Japanese anime and manga series created by Gosho Aoyama. The series first debuted in manga form in 1994 and the anime adaptation began airing in 1996. The series features a wide range of vocabulary related to detective work, crime-solving, and everyday situations, making it an excellent resource for expanding your Japanese vocabulary.

"Detective Conan" portrays realistic, everyday conversations among its characters. This is valuable for learners who want to understand how Japanese is spoken in various contexts. Furthermore, the anime offers insights into Japanese culture, traditions, and daily life, helping learners gain a better understanding of the country and its people.

The series features intricate mysteries and complex storylines, which can help learners improve their listening comprehension and critical thinking skills. In addition, "Detective Conan" includes a wide range of characters, each with their unique personalities and speech patterns. This diversity exposes learners to different ways of speaking in Japanese.

Directed by: Kenji Kodama

Air dates: January 8, 1996

IMDb rating: 8.5

Known as "Kimi no Na wa" in Japanese, "Your Name" is a critically acclaimed anime film released in 2016. Directed by Makoto Shinkai and produced by CoMix Wave Films, the film gained international recognition for its stunning animation, captivating storyline, and emotional depth.

"Your Name" is renowned for its breathtaking animation and artistry. The film's visuals are characterized by detailed landscapes, vibrant colors, and fluid character animations. It beautifully captures both the rural and urban settings of Japan, providing viewers with a visual treat. Makoto Shinkai's attention to detail in depicting everyday life and natural elements adds to the film's charm.

The story of "Your Name" revolves around two high school students: Mitsuha Miyamizu, who lives in a rural town, and Taki Tachibana, who resides in Tokyo. Through a mysterious phenomenon, they find themselves intermittently swapping bodies, leading to humorous and heartfelt moments as they navigate each other's lives. As they try to uncover the reason behind this strange connection, they become entangled in a larger mystery tied to a catastrophic event.

The film seamlessly blends elements of romance, science fiction, and coming-of-age themes. It explores the themes of connection, fate, and the transient nature of life, making it emotionally resonant and thought-provoking. "Your Name" features natural and contemporary Japanese dialogue, making it a valuable resource for learners aiming to improve their conversational skills.

Directed by: Makoto Shinkai

Air dates: August 26, 2016

IMDb rating: 8.4

"The Promised Neverland" is a suspenseful and dark fantasy anime set in an orphanage called Grace Field House. The story follows a group of orphaned children, with Emma, Norman, and Ray as the main protagonists. They live what seems to be an idyllic life, cared for by a loving and attentive "Mother" named Isabella. However, their world is turned upside down when they discover a horrifying secret: the orphanage is actually a farm where the children are raised as food for mysterious creatures known as "demons."

Emma, Norman, and Ray, along with their fellow orphans, must devise an escape plan to avoid being harvested and to uncover the truth about the world beyond the orphanage. The story is marked by intense psychological battles, suspenseful plot twists, and a constant sense of danger as the children face off against their cunning and formidable enemies.

"The Promised Neverland" explores several themes, including:

• Survival: The children's struggle for survival in a hostile and deceptive environment is a central theme, driving much of the tension and action in the series.
  
• Deception and Trust: The story delves into the themes of deception and trust, as the children must navigate a world where they can trust very few people.
  
• Friendship and Sacrifice: The strong bonds of friendship and the willingness to sacrifice for one another are significant themes throughout the series.
  
• Morality: The anime raises moral questions about the actions people are willing to take to survive and protect others.

Directed by: Mamoru Kanbe

Air dates: January 11, 2019

IMDb rating: 8.2

"Doraemon" is one of the most iconic and beloved anime and manga series in Japan, created by Fujiko F. Fujio. It follows the adventures of a robotic cat named Doraemon and a young boy named Nobita Nobi.

The story is set in the fictional town of Nobita's birth, where Nobita Nobi, a clumsy, lazy, and academically challenged boy, is the protagonist. He faces various challenges in his daily life, whether it's dealing with bullies, struggling in school, or failing at household chores. However, things change when Doraemon, a blue robotic cat from the future, arrives at his doorstep.

Doraemon has been sent back in time to assist Nobita's descendants and help improve Nobita's life. He possesses a vast array of futuristic gadgets and devices from the 22nd century, many of which he uses to aid Nobita and his friends in solving problems, going on adventures, and even traveling through time. Each episode typically involves a different gadget or situation, leading to humorous and heartwarming stories.

"Doraemon" is an excellent resource for Japanese learners for several reasons. First, the dialogue in "Doraemon" is generally straightforward and suitable for learners, making it accessible for language practice. Next, the series provides insights into Japanese school life, traditions, and everyday situations. Each episode introduces new words and phrases, helping learners expand their vocabulary. In addition, "Doraemon" is widely available with subtitles, making it accessible to learners who may not yet be proficient in Japanese.

Directed by: Hiroshi Fujimoto and Motoo Abiko

Air dates: April 1, 1973

IMDb rating: 8.1

"Shirokuma Cafe", also known as "Polar Bear Cafe," is a charming and lighthearted anime series and manga created by Aloha Higa. It originally began as a web manga in 2006 before being serialized in various magazines. The anime adaptation, produced by Studio Pierrot, aired in Japan from April 2012 to March 2013.

"Shirokuma Cafe" is a slice-of-life comedy that revolves around the daily lives and interactions of a group of anthropomorphic animals and humans who frequent a cozy cafe run by a friendly and laid-back polar bear named Shirokuma (White Bear). The cafe serves as a gathering place for various animals, including a penguin named Penguin-san and a panda named Panda-kun. These animals interact with the cafe's human customers and share their humorous and heartwarming experiences, often leading to comical situations and witty conversations.

"Shirokuma Cafe" is recommended for various reasons:

• Language Practice: The anime features clear and often slow-paced dialogue, making it accessible for Japanese learners to practice listening and comprehension skills.
  
• Everyday Vocabulary: The series uses everyday conversational language, providing learners with useful vocabulary and expressions.
  
• Cultural Insights: It offers insights into Japanese culture and daily life, including dining customs and social interactions.
  
• Humor: The show's humor, witty banter, and playful interactions make it engaging and enjoyable for learners.
  
• Availability: "Shirokuma Cafe" is widely available with subtitles, making it accessible to learners at different proficiency levels.

Directed by: Mitsuyuki Masuhara

Air dates: April 2012

IMDb rating: 8.1

"My Neighbor Totoro" is a beloved animated film directed by Hayao Miyazaki and produced by Studio Ghibli. It was released in 1988 and has since become a timeless classic in the world of animation. The film is a gentle exploration of childhood wonder and imagination. It captures the innocence, curiosity, and resilience of children as they navigate their new environment and cope with the absence of their mother. The heart of the story lies in the sisters' interactions with the forest spirits and their joyful adventures.

"My Neighbor Totoro" celebrates the simplicity and purity of childhood, emphasizing the wonder of the world through a child's eyes. The film explores the importance of family and the support siblings can provide to each other in challenging times. It highlights the connection between nature and the imagination of children, portraying the forest as a place filled with magic and wonder.

The film is renowned for its beautiful and hand-drawn animation, capturing the lushness of the countryside and the whimsical charm of the forest spirits. Studio Ghibli's attention to detail and the enchanting character designs have made "My Neighbor Totoro" visually stunning and endearing.

Directed by: Hayao Miyazaki

Air dates: April 16, 1988

IMDb rating: 8.1

The series is known for its unique and artistic approach to storytelling, as well as its complex characters. This anime tell about the story of Koyomi Araragi, a high school student who has had a series of encounters with supernatural beings known as "oddities" or "aberrations." After a chance meeting with a girl named Hitagi Senjougahara, he becomes entangled in a world of oddities and attempts to help various characters affected by supernatural afflictions.

The series is divided into several story arcs, each centered around a different character and their unique supernatural problem. These arcs explore themes of identity, self-discovery, and emotional healing as Araragi and his friends confront various oddities.

Some of the prominent characters in this anime:

• Koyomi Araragi: The main protagonist, Araragi, is a high school student who has been transformed into a vampire but later becomes a human again. He is kind-hearted and often gets involved in helping others with their oddity-related problems.
  
• Hitagi Senjougahara: Hitagi is a sharp-tongued and aloof girl who initially appears cold and distant. She has a mysterious weightlessness affliction and becomes Araragi's first supernatural encounter.
  
• Tsubasa Hanekawa: A classmate and friend of Araragi, Hanekawa is intelligent and kind. She has her own struggles with oddities.
  
• Mayoi Hachikuji: Mayoi is a lost spirit who takes the form of a young girl. Araragi tries to help her find her way home.
  
• Suruga Kanbaru: Suruga is an athletic and openly lesbian classmate who becomes involved in oddity incidents.

Directed by: Akiyuki Shinbo

Air dates: July 3, 2009

IMDb rating: 8.0

"Pokémon", short for "Pocket Monsters", is a globally popular multimedia franchise created by Satoshi Tajiri and Ken Sugimori. It was first introduced by Nintendo, Game Freak, and Creatures Inc. The franchise revolves around fictional creatures known as Pokémon, which humans, known as Pokémon Trainers, capture and train to battle each other. "Pokémon: The Animated Series" is a long-running TV anime that follows the adventures of a Pokémon Trainer named Ash Ketchum (Satoshi in Japanese) and his friends as they travel, battle other Trainers, and aim to become Pokémon Masters. The series is known for its iconic slogan, "Gotta Catch 'Em All!"

Throughout the franchise, certain Pokémon are designated as "legendary" or "mythical" due to their rarity, unique abilities, or role in the Pokémon world. Examples include Mewtwo, Mew, Articuno, Moltres, Zapdos, Rayquaza, and many others. Pokémon's enduring appeal lies in its combination of adventure, strategy, exploration, and the bond formed between Trainers and their Pokémon. It has captivated fans of all ages for decades and continues to evolve with each new generation of games and media.

The dialogue in "Pokémon" is generally straightforward and aimed at a young audience, making it accessible for Japanese learners who are at the beginner or intermediate level. This allows learners to practice listening comprehension with relatively easy-to-understand language. Moreover, the series often repeats key vocabulary words, especially Pokémon names, moves, and commands. This repetition can help learners reinforce their vocabulary.

Directed by: Kunihiko Yuyama

Air dates: April 1, 1997

IMDb rating: 7.5