Last updated on October 12th, 2024 at 12:19 pm
It’s time to discover the hidden gems of the anime world: underrated mythology anime. These series offer unique stories, captivating characters, and stunning visuals that will leave you wanting more. Join me as I explore some must-watch anime that deserve your attention.
The Eccentric Family
The Eccentric Family is set in Kyoto, where tanuki and tengu live quietly alongside humans, who don’t know they exist. The story follows Yasaburou Shimogamo, the carefree third son of a famous tanuki family. He spends his days looking after an old tengu, shapeshifting to watch humans, and dealing with a mysterious woman named Benten. However, beneath their peaceful lives is a sad memory: Yasaburou’s father, who was the leader of the tanuki, was killed and eaten by a group of humans called the Friday Fellows. As Yasaburou and his brothers face their own struggles, they also try to uncover the truth about their father’s death, mixing humor, adventure, and touching moments along the way.
Kekkaishi
Kekkaishi follows Yoshimori Sumimura, a young boy from a family of guardians called Kekkaishi. These special protectors have the ability to defeat evil creatures known as Ayakashi that sometimes enter the human world. Yoshimori must fight to keep his school and hometown safe. Thankfully, he isn’t alone in this fight. His childhood friend and neighbor, Tokine Yukimura, joins him, even though they come from rival clans. Together, they form a strong team, which is crucial as waves of Ayakashi attack, eager to take over their land, while a shadowy organization watches and waits for the right moment to make their move. The series mixes action, humor, and supernatural elements, creating an exciting adventure.
Raven of the Inner Palace
Raven of the Inner Palace tells the story of Jusetsu Ryuu, known as the Raven Consort, who lives alone in a mysterious black palace away from the emperor and the royal court. Feared by some and admired by others, she is said to have special powers that allow her to grant wishes, whether it’s finding lost items or casting curses. When the young emperor asks for her help, Jusetsu reluctantly leaves her palace for the first time. She remembers her predecessor’s words that she must remain alone and never want for anything. However, she surprises herself by asking for Jiujiu, a curious court girl who becomes her only attendant. Together, they help the people in the palace, but dangers lurk outside, and Jusetsu’s past may catch up with her.
Kamichu!
Kamichu! follows Yurie Hitotsubashi, an average middle school girl in the 1980s who suddenly finds out she has become a Shinto goddess. While dealing with school stress and her crush on the clueless Kenji, Yurie tells her friend Mitsue about her new role. Their classmate Matsuri jumps at the chance to use Yurie’s divinity to help her family’s struggling shrine. With Matsuri as her manager, Yurie must grant wishes, lift curses, and even meet aliens, all while trying to confess her feelings to Kenji. The series combines humor with themes of friendship and self-discovery, exploring the fun and challenges of being a goddess.
Yatagarasu: The Raven Does Not Choose Its Master
Yatagarasu: The Raven Does Not Choose Its Master takes place in the Kingdom of Yamauchi, where people can turn into three-legged crows called yatagarasu. Four young women arrive at the royal court to compete for the crown prince’s hand. The prince, Wakamiya, struggles with being chosen over his older brother, which creates tension between them and angers his stepmother. When Yukiya, the son of a village chief, becomes Wakamiya’s new attendant, he gets caught up in dangerous plots to take down the prince. As murder and betrayal unfold, Yukiya must navigate the palace’s dark secrets in this exciting fantasy tale.
The Idaten Deities Know Only Peace
The Idaten Deities Know Only Peace is set in a world where powerful gods of battle called the Idaten sealed away demons after a fierce fight 800 years ago. This battle has become a myth for the current generation of Idaten, who live peaceful lives and have never experienced fighting. However, when someone awakens the demons again, the young Idaten must face the reality of their past. As they encounter these dangerous foes, they learn what it means to be true guardians and protectors of humanity. The anime combines action and fantasy while exploring themes of bravery, the challenges of peace, and the clash between past and present.
Hakkenden: Eight Dogs of the East
Hakkenden: Eight Dogs of the East takes place five years after a deadly plague nearly wipes out the villagers in Ootsuka. The story follows three survivors: a girl named Hamaji and two boys, Shino Inuzuka and Sousuke Inukawa, who live in a church to stay hidden from those who might want to find them. Shino has the power of Murasame, a special sword that holds life itself, while Sousuke can turn into a dog named Yoshiro. When the imperial church kidnaps Hamaji to draw them out, the brothers must go on a dangerous journey to save her from the Church in the Imperial Capital. Along the way, they face tough challenges and discover the truth about their past and the strength of their friendship.
Neuro: Supernatural Detective
Neuro: Supernatural Detective follows Yako Katsuragi, a young high school detective known for solving many cases. However, her real secret is her partnership with Neuro Nougami, a demon who loves mysteries and feeds on the negative energy from crimes. Neuro comes to the human world to enjoy these puzzles but must stay hidden from people. To make this work, he strikes a deal with Yako: he will help her find out what happened to her father if she becomes his proxy detective. Together, they solve various cases, with Yako using her skills and Neuro tapping into his supernatural powers, creating a mix of humor and mystery as they work to uncover the truth.
Hozuki's Coolheadedness
Hozuki’s Coolheadedness follows Hozuki, a calm and clever aide to the king of hell in Japanese mythology. He works in the afterlife, managing various spirits and demons with a no-nonsense attitude. Each episode presents humorous and quirky situations as Hozuki deals with troublesome souls, his eccentric colleagues, and the challenges of running hell smoothly. The series combines dark comedy with insights into Japanese folklore, showcasing Hozuki’s resourcefulness and unique problem-solving skills in a world filled with supernatural beings.
Nura: Rise of the Yokai Clan
Nura: Rise of the Yokai Clan follows Rikuo Nura, an ordinary middle school student who seems like any other kid. However, he has a secret: he has one-fourth yokai blood and is the heir to the powerful Nura Clan, led by his grandfather. At first, Rikuo is reluctant to accept his yokai side because his classmates tease him for talking about yokai. But as he grows older, he learns to embrace his abilities and realizes he can protect both humans and yokai because of his heritage. Ready to take on his role as the young master of the Nura Clan, Rikuo faces many challenges from those who want to stop him.
Tonari no Yokai-san
Tonari no Yokai-san takes place in the quiet town of Engamori, where humans, yokai, and gods have lived peacefully together for many years. The story follows their simple daily lives as they deal with their own problems and happiness. Buchio, who used to be a regular cat, is now a nekomata. Mutsumi is a cheerful girl who worries about her missing father, and Jiro is a crow tengu who has been watching over the town for generations. This relaxing and heartwarming anime shows the special connections between these characters as they go about their everyday lives.
So there you have it—some underrated mythology anime that you absolutely must watch! These hidden gems provide a glimpse into the rich and diverse world of mythology. From fantastical creatures and mythical gods to epic adventures and profound philosophical questions, these anime will transport you to realms of wonder and imagination. Have you seen any of these titles? Which one is your favorite? Let me know in the comments below!