Top 10 Anime Series With Most Episodes

While binge-watching an entire show in a single day can be exhilarating, many anime fans crave series they can truly immerse themselves in for the long haul. Long-running anime have the unique ability to foster deep connections between viewers and characters, making every emotional moment resonate more profoundly as fans spend years, even lifetimes, with these fictional personalities.

Series like Gintama and Naruto boast impressive episode counts in the hundreds, yet they don’t even come close to the longest-running anime of all time. Some series have spanned thousands of episodes and continue to air new ones, captivating audiences for decades. Curious which anime series hold the record for the most episodes ever? Dive into the world of anime longevity and discover the true giants of the genre.

Title	Chibi Maruko-chan
Author	Momoko Sakura
Episodes	1421
Theme	Comedy
Aired	1995 – Present
Studio	Nippon Animation
Source	Manga
MAL Rating	7.3/10
IMDB Rating	7.9/10

Chibi Maruko-chan might technically be a single-season anime, but it poses a significant challenge for marathon watchers. With an episode count exceeding 1,400, finishing the series would take over three weeks of continuous viewing. Since its debut in 1995, Chibi Maruko-chan has captivated audiences with its endearing and humorous storytelling.

Adapted from one of the most beloved shoujo manga, this children’s show follows the adventures of Momoko “Maruko” Sakura, her family, and friends. Its lighthearted and charming narrative appeals to both nostalgic older viewers and younger audiences seeking something simple and heartwarming. Chibi Maruko-chan stands as a timeless series that continues to enchant viewers of all ages.

Title	Manga Nippon Mukashi Banashi
Author	Takashi Yanase
Episodes	1494
Theme	Historical
Aired	1975 – 1995
Studio	Group TAC
Source	Manga
MAL Rating	6.2/10
IMDB Rating	8/10

Every country could benefit from a show like Manga Nippon Mukashi Banashi. This beloved series delved into Japan’s rich tapestry of folk and fairy tales, each episode presenting a unique story about the country’s legendary monsters and myths. The show’s charming, cartoony art style brought these tales to life in a way that few other series have managed to replicate. Its impressive 16-year run is a testament to the enduring appeal of its content.

With 1,494 episodes, Manga Nippon Mukashi Banashi is a monumental achievement in anime history. The series maintained high-quality storytelling and animation throughout its extensive run, solidifying its place in Japanese popular culture. Though it is no longer in syndication, it remains a significant cultural touchstone. In 2017, the series saw a resurgence with the release of new episodes, rekindling interest in these timeless tales. Unfortunately, Manga Nippon Mukashi Banashi is not currently available on streaming platforms.

Title	Kirin Ashita no Calendar
Author	Unknown
Episodes	1498
Theme	Historical
Aired	1980 – 1984
Studio	Office Uni
Source	Original
MAL Rating	5.8/10
IMDB Rating	5.8/10

The world of television is no stranger to sponsored programming, but few shows exhibit cognitive dissonance quite like Kirin Ashita No Calendar. This anime series consisted of educational shorts aired during children’s TV blocks, often featuring a cute cat mascot. Despite its target audience being children, the series was sponsored by the popular beer brand Kirin. To appeal to the parents of its young viewers, the brand listed itself as Kirin Brewery in the credits, emphasizing its nonalcoholic offerings during segments.

Kirin Ashita No Calendar has largely faded from pop culture, with only a handful of clips and the show’s intro still available. This 1980s classic used a stage play format to educate children about historical events, uniquely blending animated segments with live-action clips, likely featuring plenty of Kirin product placements. Running for four years with an impressive 1,498 episodes, it’s a shame that this series is now largely unavailable for viewing. Currently, Kirin Ashita No Calendar is not available on streaming platforms.

Title	Kirin no Monoshiri Yakata
Author	Unknown
Episodes	1565
Theme	Historical
Aired	1975 – 1979
Studio	Office Uni
Source	Original
MAL Rating	5.5/10
IMDB Rating	5.5/10

“Kirin no Monoshiri Yakata,” translated as “The Giraffe’s Knowledge Mansion,” stands as one of the longest-running anime series in history, captivating audiences for generations with its charming characters and enduring themes. Originating in Japan in 1965, this beloved series has held a special place in the hearts of viewers worldwide for nearly six decades. At its core, “Kirin no Monoshiri Yakata” follows the adventures of a curious giraffe named Kirin and his friends as they explore the vast world of knowledge within the confines of their magical mansion.

Each episode is an educational journey, seamlessly blending entertainment with valuable lessons on topics ranging from history and science to literature and art. Through its whimsical storytelling and colorful animation, the series has managed to make learning both fun and accessible for viewers of all ages. One of the key factors contributing to the enduring success of “Kirin no Monoshiri Yakata” is its ability to evolve with the times while maintaining its core essence.

Title	Soreike! Anpanman
Author	Takashi Yanase
Episodes	1640
Theme	Superhero
Aired	1988 – Present
Studio	TMS Entertainment
Source	Manga
MAL Rating	6.7/10
IMDB Rating	7.5/10

Sorieke! Anpanman chronicles the whimsical adventures of the beloved bean-headed superhero Anpanman as he battles the notorious germ villain Baikinman. A cornerstone of Japanese pop culture, Anpanman is one of the most recognizable characters in the nation.

Thanks to the main character’s iconic status, Sorieke! Anpanman has enjoyed an extensive television run. Since its debut in 1988, the series continues to captivate audiences with over 1,572 episodes to date. This enduring popularity highlights Anpanman’s significant impact on Japanese culture and entertainment.

Doraemon	Doraemon
Author	Fujiko F. Fujio
Episodes	1787
Theme	Anthropomorphic
Aired	1979 – 2005
Studio	Shin-Ei Animation
Source	Manga
MAL Rating	7.8/10
IMDB Rating	8.1/10

Doraemon has been a cornerstone of the anime world, with various series spanning significant periods. The 1979 series, in particular, holds the record for the longest run in the franchise.

This 1979 rendition of Doraemon aired for an impressive twenty-six years, amassing over 1,700 episodes before concluding in 2005. Although it doesn’t hold the record for the most episodes in a single anime, the Doraemon franchise as a whole boasts a staggering total of over 3,000 episodes. This enduring legacy underscores its profound impact on anime and popular culture.

Title	Oyako Club
Author	Marie Terunuma Setsuko Seriguchi
Episodes	1818
Theme	Comedy
Aired	1994 – 2013
Studio	Eiken
Source	Original
MAL Rating	5.4/10
IMDB Rating	5.4/10

‘Oyako Club,’ also known as “Parent and Child Club,” is a timeless gem in the realm of anime, recognized as the longest-running animated television series in history. Launched in 1994, this beloved Japanese anime series captivated audiences with its heartwarming narratives and endearing characters.

The series follows the lives of three generations of the Yamada family, offering a portrayal of family bonds, everyday struggles, and moments of joy. The series spans over three decades, chronicling the triumphs and tribulations of the Yamadas as they navigate the challenges of life, love, and parenthood.

Doraemon	Ojarumaru
Author	Rin Inumaru
Episodes	2037
Theme	Adventure
Aired	1998 – Present
Studio	Gallop
Source	Manga
MAL Rating	6.4/10
IMDB Rating	6.8/10

In a unique reverse isekai twist, Ojarmaru follows the adventures of a 5-year-old prince from ancient Japan who accidentally falls into a portal, landing in present-day Japan. This long-running children’s anime is filled with a delightfully whimsical sense of humor that has captivated young audiences for decades.

The storyline typically revolves around Prince Ojarmaru being chased by a trio of oni siblings from the past who are after a powerful scepter he stole. While the series might not offer much for adult viewers, its charm and humor have solidified its place in anime history. Debuting in 1998, Ojarmaru has impressively amassed over 2,037 episodes, showcasing its enduring appeal to younger generations.

Title	Nintama Rantarō
Author	Sōbe Amako
Episodes	2321
Theme	Comedy
Aired	1993 – Present
Studio	Ajia-do Animation Works
Source	Manga
MAL Rating	7.1/10
IMDB Rating	7.1/10

As NHK’s longest-running program, it’s no surprise that Nintama Rantarō also ranks among the longest-running anime series. This delightful show follows the adventures of Rantarō, a first-grade boy attending a ninja school with his best friends, Kirimaru and Shinbee. Aimed at a younger audience, Nintama Rantarō is a comedy-based anime that brims with clever references to Japanese culture.

Since its debut in 1993, the series has entertained audiences with its charming humor and cultural nods. Over the years, Nintama Rantarō has aired an impressive 2,321 ten-minute segments, demonstrating its enduring popularity and timeless appeal. This anime not only highlights the fun and mischief of childhood but also weaves in rich elements of Japan’s historical and cultural tapestry, making it a beloved classic for young viewers and nostalgic adults alike.

Title	Sazae-san
Author	Machiko Hasegawa
Episodes	2641
Theme	Comedy
Aired	1969 – Present
Studio	Eiken
Source	Manga
MAL Rating	6.1/10
IMDB Rating	7.1/10

Sazae-san doesn’t just outstrip every other anime in terms of its extensive library and longevity; it is also one of the longest-running TV shows of all time, surpassing even iconic series like The Simpsons and Doctor Who. Holding the Guinness World Record for the longest-running animated television show ever, Sazae-san began in 1969 and now boasts over 2,640 episodes.

The series chronicles the daily lives of housewife Sazae Fuguta and her family, capturing the hearts of viewers with its portrayal of wholesome Japanese family life. Many families still gather to watch Sazae-san every Sunday night, cementing its status as a beloved cultural staple. The show’s impact is so profound that “Sazae-san syndrome” has become a recognized term in Japan, describing the melancholy felt as the weekend ends and the workweek looms.

With its significant cultural influence and timeless appeal, Sazae-san stands as the longest-running anime in history, a testament to its enduring charm and relevance across generations.

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