Top 5 Underrated Anime That Deserve More Love (From a Japanese Perspective)

Intro
When it comes to anime, titles like Naruto, Demon Slayer, or Attack on Titan are always in the spotlight. But as a Japanese anime fan, I want to introduce you to a few less mainstream, yet incredibly powerful and memorable anime that often fly under the radar.
Here are 5 underrated masterpieces that deserve much more attention — handpicked from my personal favorites.

1. Summer Time Rendering (サマータイムレンダ)

If you enjoy solving mysteries, this one’s for you. Summer Time Rendering is a suspenseful, mind-bending anime that keeps you guessing every episode. With its well-constructed plot and cliffhangers, it’s impossible to stop watching once you start.

2. Re:Creators

What if the characters from your favorite light novels or games came into the real world and fought for their beliefs? Re:Creators brings this dreamlike concept to life. Every character has depth, unique motivations, and powerful moments. The story is bold, emotional, and full of action.

3. A Place Further Than the Universe (宇宙よりも遠い場所)

In one word: touching. This is a heartfelt coming-of-age story about four high school girls who set their sights on Antarctica. It’s a story of friendship, growth, and dreams — and yes, it will make you cry.

4. Guilty Crown (ギルティクラウン)

This one hits hard, especially for those who love action with a darker tone. Guilty Crown explores themes like choice, fate, bonds, and sacrifice. The intense visuals and emotional storylines make it a thrilling ride from start to finish — especially for male viewers.

5. Bakemonogatari (化物語)

A true gem by Nisio Isin. Bakemonogatari follows a high school boy who encounters various girls affected by supernatural “oddities.” What makes this anime special is its witty wordplay, fast-paced dialogue, and unique visual direction. Each character is deeply memorable and full of personality.

Conclusion
Japanese anime isn’t just about the hits you always hear about.
There’s a whole world of beautifully crafted, deeply meaningful stories waiting to be discovered. I hope this list gives you a glimpse into the rich and diverse landscape of Japanese anime — and maybe you’ll find a new favorite among them.

If you’ve already seen any of these, I’d love to hear your thoughts.
And if not, give them a try — you won’t regret it!