21 Top IMDb-Rated Josei Series From Top To Bottom You Should Watch In 2024

There are some incredibly charming stories in Josei Anime. These are illustrations that fans should not miss up.

The subjects that Josei and Shoujo Anime address as well as the way they address them characterize their mature development. Relationships, the challenges of supporting oneself financially and taking care of one’s family, and the evolution of individuals are among the mature themes and stories it contains.

Many of these anime are motivated by romanticism, sentimentality, and the harsh realities of adult life. They are usually neither hard-nosed and pessimistic nor starry-eyed and naive. Although Josei primarily appeals to older women, these series typically have a far wider audience. Anyone looking for three-dimensional characters tackling equally complex problems should watch the best Josei anime series.

All the Josei anime series that are listed in this article now have specifications.

1. Shouwa Genroku Rakugo Shinjuu: Sukeroku Futatabi-hen: IMDb (8.4) 2017

Plot: The story is about a man who leaves prison and becomes the apprentice of Yakumo Yurakutei, a famous rakugo performer. It explores their journey to gain popularity, highlighting Yakumo’s rise to fame and his friendship with Sukeroku, another performer.

My Recommendation: Shouwa Genroku Rakugo Shinjuu: Sukeroku Futatabi-Hen is a captivating tale of passion, tradition, and redemption set in the world of Japanese storytelling. With exquisite animation and deeply human characters, it offers a poignant exploration of love, sacrifice, and the power of art to transcend generations. An absolute must-watch masterpiece.

2. Nodame Cantabile: IMDb (8.3) 2006

Plot: Shinichi Chiaki is a talented student who dreams of becoming a conductor. Despite his fear of airplanes and the ocean, he excels in piano and violin. Megumi Noda, on the other hand, is known for her messy behavior but has a great talent for playing the piano by ear. When they meet, Nodame falls in love quickly, while Chiaki takes longer to appreciate her unique qualities. Their relationship helps them grow as individuals, and they encounter eccentric friends along the way. After graduation, they move to Paris, where Nodame studies piano and Chiaki becomes a conductor.

My Recommendation: Nodame Cantabile is a delightful combination of music, comedy, and romance that follows the quirky relationship between a talented but eccentric pianist, Nodame, and her serious-minded, perfectionist conductor, Chiaki. With its charming characters, captivating performances, and heartwarming story, it’s a must-watch for anyone seeking joyous entertainment.

3. Bunny Drop: IMDb (8.3) 2011

Plot: Daikichi Kawachi learns about his grandfather’s illegitimate daughter, Rin Kaga, during the funeral. Determined to protect her from family resentment, he becomes her guardian. Daikichi faces challenges as a single parent but finds support from a single mother named Kouki Nitani. After a year, Daikichi realizes that his sacrifices were worthwhile. In the second half of the series, Rin is in high school and deals with her feelings for Kouki while contemplating her future career. She later discovers she is not related to Daikichi by blood and expresses her desire to have his child in the end.

My Recommendation: Bunny Drop is a heartwarming film that delicately explores the themes of family, love, and responsibility. With its endearing characters and touching storyline, it reminds us of the profound bonds that can form between people, regardless of biological ties. A must-watch for anyone seeking a heartfelt cinematic experience.

4. Shōwa Genroku Rakugo Shinjū: IMDb (8.3) 2016

Plot: A man is freed from jail and becomes an apprentice to renowned rakugo artist Yakumo Yurakutei. The tale delves into the performers’ pasts and their quest for fame, chronicling Yakumo’s journey from apprentice to stardom. Along the way, he forms a close bond with fellow performer Sukeroku.

My Recommendation: Shōwa Genroku Rakugo Shinjū is a captivating blend of tradition and drama, showcasing the art of Rakugo storytelling against the backdrop of post-war Japan. Its rich character development and poignant narrative offer a deep exploration of love, jealousy, and the pursuit of passion. A must-watch for anyone craving emotional depth and cultural immersion.

5. Kids on the Slope: IMDb (8.2) 2012

Plot: Kaoru Nishimi is a high school student who moves frequently due to his father’s job. He struggles to make lasting friendships until he moves to Sasebo, Nagasaki. There, he meets Sentarō Kawabuchi, a delinquent student with a love for jazz music. Inspired by Sentarō, Kaoru starts studying jazz and they become close friends. Ritsuko Mukae, another classmate, also joins their friendship circle as they spend their high school years together. The story follows their journey and the development of relationships among them over three years.

My Recommendation: Kids on the Slope is an enchanting coming-of-age tale set in 1960s Japan, blending friendship, music, and romance. With its soulful soundtrack and heartfelt storytelling, it’s a timeless masterpiece that resonates with audiences of all ages.

6. Cihayafuru: IMDb (8.1) 2011

Plot: Chihaya supports her sister’s modeling career until she meets Arata, a talented karuta player. They become friends and he sees her potential to excel in the game. Chihaya decides to pursue her dream of becoming Japan’s top karuta player but loses touch with her childhood friends. In high school, she reunites with Taichi and together they form the Mizusawa Karuta Club. With their support, Chihaya aims to be the world’s best karuta player and hopes for a reunion with Arata in the future.

My Recommendation: Chihayafuru is a captivating blend of traditional Japanese card games, romance, and friendship. It intricately weaves the journey of Chihaya Ayase as she strives to become the Queen of Karuta, beautifully capturing the essence of dedication, passion, and the pursuit of one’s dreams. A must-watch for anyone seeking inspiration and heartfelt storytelling.

7. Hakuoki: IMDb (8.1) 2011

Plot: Chizuru Yukimura ventures to Kyoto during the Edo period in search of her father. Mistaken for a boy, she is captured by the Shinsengumi after being attacked by mad men. When they discover her true identity and connection to the Water of Life elixir, which transforms people into bloodthirsty Furies, they decide to keep her as an aide. Over time, Chizuru forms a bond with Toshizo Hijikata and the Shinsengumi. Together, they face off against a mysterious group claiming to be demons, while Chizuru’s father’s sinister experiments come to light.

My Recommendations: Hakuoki is a captivating blend of historical drama, romance, and action set in Japan’s turbulent Bakumatsu period. With stunning animation and compelling characters inspired by real-life figures, it immerses viewers in a world of political intrigue and forbidden love. A must-watch for fans of Japanese history and romance anime.

8. Honey and Clover: IMDb (7.8) 2006

Plot: Yūta, Takumi, and Shinobu live in the same apartment complex and attend an art college in Tokyo. They meet Hagu, who has come to live with her cousin Shūji Hanamoto. Yūta and Shinobu fall in love with Hagu, but Yūta hides his feelings while Shinobu scares Hagu with his actions. Gradually, Hagu warms up to the three. Ayumi is a master of pottery known as “Tetsujin” and becomes close to Hagu.

My Recommendations: Honey and Clover is a heartwarming tale of friendship, love, and artistic pursuit. With its poignant storytelling and charming characters, this Japanese film beautifully captures the complexities of youth and the bittersweet journey of self-discovery. A must-watch for anyone seeking genuine emotional resonance and artistic inspiration.

9. Clannad: IMDb (7.8) 2008

Plot: Tomoya Okazaki is a high school student who feels disconnected from his life. After meeting Nagisa Furukawa, they work together to restart the Drama Club. Despite facing challenges and opposition, Tomoya and his friend Youhei Sunohara help Nagisa promote the club. Eventually, with their support, the club is re-established. As the school festival approaches, Nagisa decides to perform a soliloquy based on her childhood dream. Tomoya and Youhei assist backstage while Nagisa writes the script. Through their journey together, Tomoya gradually overcomes his depression and finds hope for the future with Nagisa and their daughter Ushio.

My Recommendations: Clannad is an emotional rollercoaster that explores love, loss, and the power of family bonds. With beautifully crafted animation and a touching soundtrack, this masterpiece captures the essence of life’s joys and sorrows. Prepare to laugh, cry, and be profoundly moved by its poignant storytelling.

10. Princess Jellyfish: IMDb (7.7) 2010

Plot: Princess Jellyfish is a story about Tsukimi, an otaku woman who lives in an all-female apartment building. Tsukimi loves jellyfish because of memories with her late mother. She wants to become an illustrator but struggles with social interaction and attractive people. The other tenants are also otaku women called the “Sisterhood.” One day, Tsukimi meets Kuranosuke, a cross-dressing man who helps her hide his identity from the other tenants. The neighborhood faces redevelopment, but Kuranosuke supports Amamizukan and its residents to prevent its destruction

My Recommendations: Princess Jellyfish is an enchanting blend of comedy and romance, offering a refreshing take on self-discovery and acceptance. With quirky characters and heartfelt moments, this charming tale celebrates individuality and the power of friendship. Dive into this delightful world where jellyfish, fashion, and dreams collide in the most unexpected ways.

11. Paradise Kiss: IMDb (7.7) 2005

Plot: Yukari Hayasaka encounters a peculiar man while heading home from school. Uncomfortable, she runs away and bumps into a tall, stunning woman named George with purple hair and an eye-catching flower pattern. Overwhelmed, Yukari faints and wakes up in an unfamiliar place called the Atelier. It turns out that these strangers are fashion designers from Yazawa Art Academy who want Yukari to model for their brand in an upcoming show. Yukari contemplates the exciting yet uncertain world of art and passion ahead of her.

My Recommendations: Paradise Kiss is a mesmerizing blend of romance, fashion, and self-discovery. It captivates with its vibrant characters and rich storytelling, immersing you in the exhilarating world of haute couture. A journey of love, dreams, and finding one’s identity, this film is a must-watch for those seeking inspiration and beauty.

12. Kakuriyo: Bed & Breakfast for Spirits: IMDb (7.6) 2018

Plot: Aoi Tsubaki, a college student, can see Ayakashi like her late grandfather. One day, she encounters a hungry Ayakashi near a shrine. After feeding it, Aoi gets kidnapped by an Ogre named Odanna. He brings her to the Hidden Realm, where Ayakashi resides, and reveals that her grandfather owed him a debt. As compensation, he demands marriage from Aoi. However, she proposes working at his inn called Tenjin’ya instead as a negotiation with the Ogre.

My Recommendations: Kakuriyo: Bed & Breakfast for Spirits is a captivating blend of supernatural folklore and heartfelt human connections. With stunning animation and a richly detailed world, it immerses viewers in a tale of love, loss, and the bonds that transcend realms. A must-watch for fans of fantasy and romance alike.

13. Michiko & Hatchin: IMDb (7.5) 2008

Plot: In a fictional South American country, Michiko Malandro escapes from prison and kidnaps Hana Morenos, her former lover’s daughter. Nicknamed “Hatchin”, Hana is saved from her abusive foster parents. Despite their differences, Michiko and Hatchin’s lives are connected through Hatchin’s father, Hiroshi Morenos. To avoid the police and abusive foster family, the duo embarks on a journey to find Hiroshi and attain freedom.

My Recommendations: Michiko & Hatchin is a captivating anime series filled with action, adventure, and heartfelt moments. Set in Brazil, it follows the journey of Michiko, a free-spirited woman, and Hatchin, a young girl searching for her father. With stunning animation and a gripping storyline, it’s a must-watch for anime fans seeking something unique and unforgettable.

14. Mr. Osomatsu: IMDb (7.5) 2015

Plot: The Matsuno household has six identical siblings: Osomatsu, Karamatsu, Choromatsu, Ichimatsu, Juushimatsu, and Todomatsu. Despite being over 20 years old, they are lazy and unemployed. They struggle to find jobs due to their unique personalities. The brothers go on crazy adventures while trying to pick up girlfriends and find the perfect job. They face challenges as sextuplets that make it hard for them to improve their social standing. Their daily activities are always exciting and sometimes bizarre.

My Recommendations: Mr. Osomatsu is a riotous anime series following the misadventures of sextuplet brothers navigating adulthood. With its outrageous humor, relatable struggles, and nostalgic nods to Japanese culture, it’s a must-watch for anyone seeking side-splitting comedy and a heartwarming reminder of the importance of family bonds.

15. Eden of the East: IMDb (7.5) 2009

Plot: On November 22, 2010, Japan is struck by ten missiles in a terrorist attack named “Careless Monday”. No one takes responsibility, and there are no casualties. Months later, Saki Morimi meets a naked Japanese man with amnesia in Washington D.C. The man, known as Akira Takizawa, discovers he is part of a game where twelve people must save Japan using ¥10 billion. They can contact an AI called Juiz for help. He encounters other players and conspiracies while trying to protect the NEETs from being labeled terrorists. Ultimately, he erases his memory and becomes the “King of Japan.”

My Recommendations: Eden of the East is a captivating anime that blends mystery, romance, and suspense flawlessly. With its intricate plot, well-developed characters, and thought-provoking themes, it’s a must-watch for any fan of the genre. Prepare to be drawn into a world of secrets, conspiracies, and unexpected twists.

16. Chōyaku Hyakunin isshu: Uta Koi: IMDb (7.4) 2012

Plot: Uta Koi is a story that features romantic poems from the Hyakunin Isshu. It includes the affair between Ariwara no Narihira and imperial consort Fujiwara no Takaiko. The story also explores the romantic relationship between Narihira’s brother, Ariwara no Yukihira, and his wife Hiroko, among other tales of love.

My Recommendations: Chōyaku Hyakunin isshu: Uta Koi offers a delightful exploration of classical Japanese poetry through captivating storytelling and rich historical contexts. With its blend of romance, wit, and cultural insight, this series is a compelling recommendation for those seeking an immersive journey into the world of traditional Japanese literature.

17. Otona Joshi no Anime Time: IMDb (7.4) 2011

Plot: Noriko returns to Japan after five years abroad, unsure of what awaits her in Kanazawa. Memories from her youth come flooding back, bringing with them long-hidden secrets. Mimi finds herself trapped in a loveless marriage until she meets Kou, the local garbage man, and sparks fly between them. Hatoko reflects on her “best ten” moments in life but realizes they all occurred before turning 18. With little time for sleep or pleasure, Maho risks collapsing from the constant pressure placed on her shoulders by an unemployed husband and distant children.

My Recommendations: Otona Joshi no Anime Time presents a captivating blend of mature themes and anime storytelling, offering a refreshing perspective for adult female viewers. With its relatable characters and thought-provoking narratives, this series serves as a testament to the power of animation to address complex emotions and life experiences.

18. Raven Of The Inner Palace: IMDb (7.3) 2022

Plot: In the royal court, the feared and revered Raven Consort Ryuu Jusetsu resides in her jet-black palace. Isolated from the emperor, she is rumored to possess mystic abilities. She takes on various requests, from finding lost items to inflicting curses. Despite preferring solitude, Jusetsu is approached by Emperor Ka Koushun for assistance with a mysterious case. Reluctantly stepping out of her palace for the first time, she forms a bond with an innocent and curious court girl named Jiujiu. Together, they fulfill requests but may face unknown dangers that could disturb Jusetsu’s past.

My Recommendations: Raven of the Inner Palace is a mesmerizing blend of mystery, intrigue, and ancient folklore. Set against the backdrop of an enigmatic palace, it unravels a gripping tale of power struggles and forbidden love. With stunning visuals and a haunting soundtrack, this film captivates from start to finish.

19. Nil Admirari no Tenbin: IMDb (7.3) 2018

Plot: A young woman agrees to an arranged marriage to protect her family. Her brother tries suicide with an old book. Two members of the Fukurō approach her, saying books called Maremono can cause self-harm. The woman sees the aura that these books emit and decides to join the Bureau, leaving her old life.

My Recommendations: Nil Admirari no Tenbin is a captivating anime series that immerses viewers in a world where books possess mystical powers. With its rich storytelling, intricate plot twists, and beautifully animated scenes, it’s a must-watch for anyone seeking a blend of fantasy, romance, and mystery. Highly recommended for anime enthusiasts!

20. Saiyuki Reload Gunlock: IMDb (7.3) 2004

Plot: The Sanzo Ikkou heads west to stop a demonic resurrection. Genjo Sanzo, Cho Hakkai, Sha Gojyo, and Son Goku face internal conflicts as they fight towards their destination. A strong duo from the west poses a threat to the group’s unity and the success of their mission.

My Recommendations: Saiyuki Reload Gunlock is an exhilarating anime that blends action, adventure, and supernatural elements flawlessly. With its captivating storyline, dynamic characters, and stunning animation, it delivers an adrenaline-pumping experience that keeps you on the edge of your seat from start to finish. A must-watch for any anime enthusiast!

21. Natsuyuki Rendezvous: IMDb (7.2) 2012

Plot: Ryosuke Hazuki, a young man, finds himself captivated by Rokka Shimao, the owner of a flower shop. To get close to her, he joins the shop as an employee. However, Ryosuke has an unusual ability – he can see spirits. One such spirit is Rokka’s deceased husband Atsushi, who tries to disrupt any potential relationship she forms. Unexpectedly, Atsushi discovers that Ryosuke can see him too, leading to unforeseen consequences for all involved.

My Recommendations: Natsuyuki Rendezvous is a captivating tale of love transcending boundaries of life and death. With beautifully nuanced characters, exquisite animation, and a touching storyline, it weaves a poignant narrative that lingers in the heart long after the credits roll. A must-watch for fans of heartfelt romance.