The 40 Best Anime Shows to Watch on Hulu!
The Best 40 Anime to Watch on Hulu before the Spring Season!
Platforms like Hulu are offering some of the best anime shows available. Although there are multiple competitors, each boasting a unique collection of anime, Hulu stands out on another level! This year, the platform has included numerous classics and exclusive anime for its viewers.
This guide will provide you with a complete overview of the amazing anime series available on Hulu. We’ve made sure to include all the latest additions, so you don’t miss out on the best and newest ones. Before diving into our top picks, check out our recent post on 26 of the Best New Anime of 2023. Now, without any further delay, let’s get started!
Table of Contents
- New Anime Series to Watch on Hulu
- 1. Trigun Stampede
- 2. Dragon Quest: The Adventure of Dai
- 3. The Tatami Time Machine Blues
- 4. ID: INVADED
- 5. Inu-Oh
- 6. Tokyo Revengers
- 7. Black Clover
- 8. BOFURI: I Don’t Want to Get Hurt, So I’ll Max Out My Defense
- 9. Heavenly Delusion
- 10. MEGALOBOX
- 11. Zom 100: Bucket List Of The Dead
- 12. Toilet-Bound Hanako-Kun
- 13. Sonny Boy
- 14. Mushoku Tensei: Jobless Reincarnation
- 15. Welcome to Demon School! Iruma-kun
- 16. Fruits Basket
- 17. Attack On Titan
- 18. One-Punch Man
- 19. My Hero Academia
- 20. Demon Slayer
- 21. Spy X Family
- 22. Chainsaw Man
- 23. Undead Unluck
- Classic Anime Series to Watch on Hulu
New Anime Series to Watch on Hulu
To ensure you have the best guide for binge-watching amazing shows, we have created two separate sections. One section includes Hulu specials and new entries in the anime space, while the other features the classic OG Anime available on Hulu.
1. Trigun Stampede
Madhouse is known for giving us some of the most legendary anime. However, what caught our attention this time is a fabulous reboot of one of its early anime: Trigun. Studio Orange’s reboot of Yasuhiro Nightow’s work is a perfect combination of the original story with modern animation.
Trigun Stampede is an anime that we have included on this list solely because of the enigmatic experience it provides to its audience. It is available on Hulu, and we recommend watching this one if you want to experience a fusion of classic anime with advanced animation techniques.
2. Dragon Quest: The Adventure of Dai
For fans of culture, the Dragon Quest franchise remains an evergreen title in the popular Japanese video game genre. But it’s not just great in gaming; it has also expanded successfully into a multimedia franchise.
Written by Riku Sanjo and illustrated by Koji Inada, Dragon Quest: The Adventure of Dai is a remarkable anime series. The anime follows the game’s storyline featuring Dai, living on an island with monsters freed by a demon lord.
The twist? Dai and his friends embark on an adventurous journey to challenge none other than the demon lord himself.
3. The Tatami Time Machine Blues
This anime series is a splendid mixture of an artistic sci-fi storyline, marvelous animation, and perfectly crafted characters. The Tatami Time Machine Blues, based on the novel by author Tomihiko Morimi, showcases the story of Watashi, who becomes frustrated by the scorching summer heat after his air conditioner is accidentally destroyed when his friend Ozu spills soda on it.
In their quest to beat the heat, the group decides to use a time machine they find in their storage room to prevent the spill. Seems silly, right? But from there, it turns into a fun and exciting journey, especially for those who enjoy witty sci-fi content.
4. ID: INVADED
ID: INVADED is a captivating sci-fi thriller anime centered around an ingenious detective, Akihito Narihisago, who aids the police in solving complex murder cases. This series boasts a masterful storyline, with its protagonist using a complex A.I. system to delve into a person’s identity and mind to piece together clues.
Sound familiar? It shares similarities with Psycho-Pass, yet with its unique twists. The system’s peculiarity lies in that anyone who can use it must have committed a murder themselves. (CREEPY but Worth Watching!).
5. Inu-Oh
Inu-Oh is a historical musical anime loosely based on Tales of the Heike: Inu-Oh by Hideo Furukawa. The story revolves around the friendship between a blind musician and the titular dancer, who possesses unique features.
For viewers who enjoy Japanese folklore enriched with traditional music and choreography, Inu-Oh is a compelling watch. Originating from a novel, this anime offers a unique experience that will resonate with audiences for years to come.
6. Tokyo Revengers
This anime requires little introduction. Tokyo Revengers is an immensely popular series that has made waves in the shounen anime genre. The anime features a high-school gangster theme.
The story follows Takemichi Hanagaki, whose girlfriend, Hinata Tachibana, is murdered by a local gang. Determined to alter the past and future, Takemichi endeavors to save his past self and Hinata.
Curious about how he plans to prevent a dismal future? YES, HE JOINS A GANG!!! This anime has proven to be a massive success and comes highly recommended.
7. Black Clover
Despite a lengthy hiatus, Black Clover remains a favorite on our list. It is a shonen anime series renowned for its impeccable storytelling and world-building. Set in a magical fantasy world, it depicts a society where possessing magical powers is necessary for dignified survival.
However, our protagonist, Asta, lacks magical abilities. His fortunes change when he acquires a five-leaf clover Grimoire and discovers he wields some of the rarest powers in the Black Clover universe. For further reading, check out our article on Black Clover’s Julius Novachrono: The Tragic Wizard King of Black Clover!
8. BOFURI: I Don’t Want to Get Hurt, So I’ll Max Out My Defense
Bofuri is a unique isekai anime set in the online fantasy world of New World Online. The story follows our protagonist, Maple, a new player in New World Online. Her mission is to protect herself from getting hurt, but it turns out she focuses all her expertise on defending her in-game persona.
This focus results in Maple becoming invincible to other players in New World Online. Bofuri is a relaxing anime series with plenty of cute characters and a charming main character. We’ve included this one on the Hulu anime list for its delightful mixture of action, comedy, and isekai fun. If you’re a fan of Isekai, make sure to read our take on the best Isekai series of 2023!
9. Heavenly Delusion
Heavenly Delusion was one of the most anticipated and loved anime series of 2023. It is a sci-fi thriller set in a dystopian future filled with man-eating monsters. Our two main characters, Maru and Kiruko, fight to survive in this cruel environment.
Beyond mere survival, the anime abounds with shocking twists and turns, with its post-apocalyptic setting serving as the cherry on top. Catch this on Hulu before the second season comes out! For more info, read our article on Heavenly Delusion.
10. MEGALOBOX
Megalobox‘s story is set in the future, where boxing involves fighters battling with exoskeletons to enhance their strength against opponents. The protagonist, Junk Dog, also known as Joe, is an underground fighter aspiring to compete in the Megalobox championships.
He gets a chance to fight with Yuri, but must start at the bottom and work his way back up for a rematch. While this anime has a simple story, what elevates it to the top of the Hulu list is its fascinating action scenes.
11. Zom 100: Bucket List Of The Dead
One of the best anime of 2023 was Zom 100: Bucket List of the Dead. Based on a seinen manga written by Haro Aso and illustrated by Kotaro Takata, it’s not your typical zombie apocalypse story. It’s a unique, emotional, colorful, and satirical spin on the zombie apocalypse genre.
Our main protagonist, Akira Tendou, is disheartened by his 9-to-5 job and the toxic work culture. After languishing for three exhausting years, he is suddenly liberated by a zombie outbreak. This event reignites his passion for adventure.
The daring hero sets out to fulfill his 100 wishes! Check out our brief analysis of Zom:100 to learn more about this anime!
12. Toilet-Bound Hanako-Kun
This anime is for those who enjoy short and cozy shows. Toilet-Bound Hanako-kun follows the adventures of young Nene Yashiro and a ghost, Hanako, who haunts her school’s bathrooms. But as the story unfolds, the duo develops feelings, and we, as the audience, revel in the sweet chemistry between these two characters.
Toilet-Bound Hanako-kun is loosely based on Japanese urban supernatural tales and deftly blends comedy, romance, and coziness. And NO! Hanako is not scary at all! Instead, one might find him, and the series overall, a stunning and well-executed anime.
13. Sonny Boy
Sonny Boy is an underrated gem produced by Studio Madhouse. Based on a supernatural mystery, it chronicles the story of 36 middle school students transported to an otherworldly void dimension. The students strive to survive in this bizarre dimension.
This naturally leads to a lot of drama among the students. While it might not satisfy your cravings for action or comedy, it’s a must-watch for its chill vibe and good animation.
14. Mushoku Tensei: Jobless Reincarnation
You must be living under a rock if you haven’t heard about Mushoku Tensei: Jobless Reincarnation. It ranks among the most revered isekai series. The protagonist, Rudeus Greyrat, is reincarnated in a magical world after meeting a tragic end in his previous life.
Determined to make the most of his new life, he delves into the study of magic, aspiring to become one of the world’s greatest magicians. Though it may not boast a novel concept, the anime’s direction is perfect, its emotional depth is commendable, and it has some charming characters, making it a delightful watch on Hulu!
15. Welcome to Demon School! Iruma-kun
Welcome to Demon School! Iruma-kun tells the story of a young boy sold to a demon by his parents (Yes, you read that right!). Iruma then navigates a new life, enrolling in a demon school.
It’s a delightful, heartwarming anime with the right dose of comedy. While it might not offer as much as other popular titles on Hulu, we’re committed to offering the best recommendations. This one is sure to entertain!
16. Fruits Basket
Fruits Basket is one of the most popular shoujo anime on Hulu. Already famous before its debut on Hulu, thanks to its manga. Tooru is a young girl who, after losing her mother, moved in with her grandfather.
However, due to his home being renovated and not wanting to burden anyone, Tooru starts living in a tent in the woods. The twist occurs when she meets Yuki Souma and his cousin Shigure Souma and starts residing in the Souma household.
The story takes a captivating turn when Tooru uncovers their secret and their dark history. Hulu offers both adaptations of Fruits Basket, but we recommend watching the reboot. The reboot series provides a much deeper insight into the story.
17. Attack On Titan
The fever of Attack on Titan never fades! One of the most widely recognized anime has significantly impacted the global influence of anime, and it’s available on Hulu. AOT is set in a post-apocalyptic future where humanity lives under the perpetual threat of man-eating, destruction-driven Titans.
Our protagonist, Eren Jaeger, witnesses the loss of his mother to the Titans and joins the Survey Corps to fight them. (At least that’s what Isayama initially wanted us all to believe.) However, Eren can transform into a Titan, offering humanity a lifeline or a greater threat as time progresses. Regardless, this anime will captivate you, and it’s definitely worth watching.
Before diving in, make sure to check out our article on AOT’s finale!
18. One-Punch Man
Who hasn’t heard of Saitama, the bald and most powerful superhero? With his immense strength, he can defeat anyone easily. The only requirement is that he must first land a perfect punch. But because of his unrivaled power, he becomes bored, craving the challenge of powerful villains.
This is the series’ allure. This bald superhero, in his pursuit of excitement, often finds himself in humorous situations. One-Punch Man is a must-watch for anyone who appreciates expertly crafted, dark humor.
19. My Hero Academia
My Hero Academia is a prominent shounen anime that has secured its place in the superhero genre. The story is simple: a young boy named Izuku Midoriya is born without superpowers, also known as a Quirk, in a world where 80% of the population possesses special abilities that make them superheroes.
However, his luck changes when he receives powers from his hero, All Might. You can watch all the seasons on Hulu to give this one a try, but be cautious of the fandom’s intensity and character shipping tendencies!
20. Demon Slayer
Oh boy! Where do we start with this? One of Ufotable’s best-animated works, Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba, is just phenomenal. It gained popularity shortly after debuting in 2020, quickly surpassing big names in the industry due to its compelling story and breathtaking animation.
The story is set during Japan’s Taishō Period, where Tanjiro loses his family to a demon attack. The situation worsens when his sister, the sole survivor, is transformed into a demon. To change her fate, Tanjiro embarks on a quest and joins the renowned Demon Slayer Corps. Not to mention, this anime features a Smooth Criminal as the Ultimate Villain!
If you’re interested in learning more about Demon Slayer, make sure to read our coverage of the Demon Slayer Universe!
21. Spy X Family
Ever heard the adorable “Waku Waku”? Spy x Family, a collaboration between Wit and CloverWorks, features this unforgettable phrase. The anime, based on Tatsuya Endo’s work, follows Loid Forger on a mission to prevent a massive war.
In doing so, he encounters a unique and charming orphan named Anya, who bonds with Loid and experiences the family dynamic she’s longed for. We can’t help but recommend this delightful anime that has topped the charts, even surpassing the titans of the anime industry. If you love such sweet anime, check out our picks for anime similar to Spy X Family.
22. Chainsaw Man
Part of MAPPA’s celebrated dark trilogy of works, Chainsaw Man boasts a vast fanbase as one of the best shounen manga in recent years. Based on Tatsuki Fujimoto’s manga, the anime depicts Denji grappling with survival amidst supernatural entities.
Forced into menial labor for the local Yakuza to settle his late father’s debt, Denji’s life radically changes when the Yakuza betray him. Rescued by a devil dog, Pochita, and merging with a Chainsaw Devil, he joins a governmental agency dedicated to hunting devils.
Before indulging in this anime on Hulu, be warned: it features ample violence and mature themes, including blood, nudity, and gore. Additionally, the protagonist is a SIMP, often finding himself in bizarre predicaments.
23. Undead Unluck
Undead Unluck follows two individuals cursed with mysterious abilities. Fuuko Izumo bears an ability that inflicts severe misfortune on anyone she touches, potentially resulting in their demise. Conversely, Andy cannot die and can regenerate his body regardless of injury.
To give their lives a second chance, they team up, only to face threats from a group seeking to exploit their powers for sinister means.
Classic Anime Series to Watch on Hulu
In addition to its collection of modern anime, Hulu also boasts an impressive catalog of classic anime. We’ve curated a selection of the best ones for those who wish to explore the legendary shows that once dominated the anime industry.
24. Dragon Ball Z Kai
Does the original Dragon Ball require an introduction? Absolutely not! Dragon Ball is the GOAT of the anime industry. It’s the legendary anime that put Japan in the limelight of mainstream media for all the right reasons.
Dragon Ball Z Kai is a remastered version of the original Dragon Ball Z, offering the familiar story with enhancements in visuals, animation, and runtime. We highly recommend it if you want to experience this iconic series that paved the way for other masterpieces to garner international acclaim.
25. Bleach
Bleach ranks among the big three of the anime industry. The tale focuses on Ichigo Kurosaki and his friends, with Asguiaro Ebern seeking to rekindle the age-old feud between the Soul Society and the Quincy family. Asguiaro aspires to revive Quincy King Yhwach, leading to chaos in both the human world and Soul Society.
It’s a worthwhile watch for reliving the glory days of Bleach with this new iteration. Want to delve deeper into this legendary anime? Check out our analysis on the different races in the Bleach Universe!
26. Hellsing
Hellsing is an anime following Alucard, a vampire weaponized by his superior, Seras Victoria, to protect the British Empire from supernatural threats (cool, right?). The series is replete with visceral and violent scenes.
A gothic horror that rarely disappoints viewers, its mix of action and supernatural elements appeals to newcomers. Still, we suggest viewing Hellsing Ultimate for improved animation and greater enjoyment.
27. Naruto
How can we not include this classic on our Hulu list? Naruto is a highly popular and beloved anime that will tug at your heartstrings with the protagonist’s dream: to become the Hokage and the leader of his village. But beyond his ambition, the anime introduces a plethora of characters, explores Japanese mythology, and features legendary anime moments that continue to captivate audiences worldwide.
28. Durarara!!
Few are aware of this gem, but Durarara! is based on a light novel series. Set in an urban supernatural setting, it follows a group of school kids. The main protagonist, Mikado Ryuugamine, seeks a life of adventure.
In pursuit of excitement, he moves to Tokyo and attends school in Ikebukuro. However, he soon learns the area is rife with dangerous gangs and several supernatural figures. Mikado’s encounter with the legendary Black Rider, a headless figure riding a black motorcycle, changes his life.
29. Pokémon
Pokémon, a renowned anime franchise from the ’90s, defined many childhoods. It follows young Ash Ketchum, who, alongside allies and rivals, ventures through the Pokémon World, accompanied by his best friend Pokémon.
It’s a nostalgic series, especially if you hold fond memories of the adorable Pokémon from your youth. Plus, the franchise has produced several fantastic movies to enjoy alongside the main anime on Hulu.
30. Psycho-Pass
Psycho-Pass stands out as one of the best sci-fi anime available, orchestrated brilliantly by Production I.G. The anime is set in a dystopian future where technology dominates the world, including the authoritarian AI system enforced by the Japanese government to eradicate evil.
The plot thickens when the disillusioned Enforcers encounter a dangerous criminal. For more insights, check out our recap articles on Psycho-Pass!
31. Kill la Kill
Kill la Kill is one of Studio Trigger’s most iconic works, celebrated for its visual style, character designs, and vibrant color palette. The anime follows a young girl who seeks to avenge her father’s death.
In her quest, she encounters Satsuki Kiryuin and her fashion mogul mother, who help her achieve revenge through fashion-inspired outfits and the superpowers they endow.
32. Hunter x Hunter
Based on Yoshihiro Togashi’s shounen manga, Hunter x Hunter is a modern fantasy brimmed with intricate world-building and characters. The anime traces Gon Freecss, who dreams of becoming a world-class hunter. On his journey, Gon befriends allies, embarking on adventures that reveal supernatural elements and formidable adversaries.
33. Mushi-shi
Mushi-Shi is an anime that can quickly become your favorite if you love stories with magical realism. Set in a fantasy world populated by spiritual entities called Mushi. While generally benign, these Mushi entities provoke human curiosity.
To understand them better, Mushi Masters venture forth to interact with these entities. Our protagonist, Ginko, embarks on his quest across the countryside to engage with the Mushi.
34. Steins;Gate
Steins; Gate is arguably one of the best sci-fi thriller anime, and we can’t help but urge you to watch this masterpiece at least once. Steins; Gate follows the story of a mad scientist, Rintaro Okabe. Teaming up with Mayuri Shiina and his roommate Itaru Hashida, they forge the Future Gadget Laboratory to create groundbreaking inventions.
However, things take a turn when Okabe attends a conference on time travel, sparking the notion that there is more to the Phone Microwave they developed. This mad scientist then discovers a means to send text messages into the past using the microwave, attracting the attention of the enigmatic organization SERN.
35. Parasyte
Parasyte: The Maxim revolves around high school student Shinichi Izumi, who finds himself amidst an alien invasion. Creatures known as Parasytes take control of their hosts’ brains.
However, Shinichi’s Parasyte lodges in his arm instead of his brain, developing an independent personality known as Migi. This anomaly grants Shinichi an edge in survival, fostering a peculiar alliance with his Parasyte!
36. Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood
Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood is a faithful adaptation of Hiromu Arakawa’s manga. Set in an alternate steampunk universe, it follows brothers Edward and Alphonse Elric as they attempt to resurrect their mother using alchemy.
However, this endeavor results in disaster. Edward loses an arm and leg, while Alphonse’s spirit becomes trapped in a suit of armor. Despite these setbacks, the brothers are determined. Edward becomes a Fullmetal Alchemist and, alongside his brother, sets forth on a quest to restore their bodies.
37. One Piece
Eiichiro Oda’s famed anime, One Piece, has been captivating audiences since the 1990s and enjoys vast popularity among anime fans. It chronicles the adventures of Monkey D. Luffy and his Straw Hat Pirates as they embark on daring sea quests, encountering unique characters along the way.
The crew seeks the One Piece, the ultimate treasure granting the title of Pirate King to its finder. Luffy dreams of becoming the Pirate King but faces intense competition.
38. JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure
You’ve likely heard of the JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure manga and its stellar art. However, Hulu features the anime series chronicling the adventures of the Joestar family. The anime traces Jonathan Joestar’s multi-decade conflict with the immortal vampire Dio. This strife eventually passes to JoJo’s grandson, Jotaro Kujo, who joins the fray, empowered by Stands.
39. Cowboy Bebop
Hulu presents the original 90s Cowboy Bebop. Celebrated for its style, animation, and sci-fi elements, the series follows a crew of bounty hunters navigating interstellar colonies. Although spanning just 26 episodes, it has enthralled audiences and sparked an enduring passion for anime that remains influential even now.
40. Death Note
You’ve likely encountered its iconic background music, the Shinigami character Ryuk, or heard of the infamous L. Death Note is a classic for a reason. The story follows cunning youth Light Yagami and his discovery of the titular Death Note.
The titular tome enables Light to kill anyone simply by inscribing their name within it. Preferring to purge criminals initially, Light soon develops a God complex, turning increasingly malevolent. This cultivates a tense game of cat and mouse with L.