by Japanese anime culture is loved all over the world, transcending borders. NHK, which broadcasts worldwide, also broadcasts a variety of anime works that a wide range of generations can enjoy in the anime slot “NHK Anime World.”
Therefore, NetLab surveyed from October 21 to October 28, 2023, asking, “What is your favorite work on ‘NHK Anime World’?” We received 623 votes in the survey. Thank you to everyone who voted! Let’s take a look at the results.
Harimogu Harley
Coming in fifth place with 20 votes was “Harimogu Harley.” This original series was planned and developed by NHK and aired from 1996 to 1998, with the original story and character design by manga artist Murakami Takashi. The show features many unique characters, such as Harley, the lively and inquisitive echidna, and Risuko, the polite but crybaby chipmunk. It is also notable for the stories it depicts that deal with familiar themes such as school life and parent-child interactions.
RINNE
Coming in fourth place was “Rinne” with 24 votes. It is an anime adaptation of Takahashi Rumiko’s manga and has been broadcast for three series. It is a school comedy about the souls of the dead, starring Mamiya Sakura, who can see ghosts, and Rinne Rokudo, who works like a grim reaper. One of the show’s attractions is the appearance of many unique characters, such as the black cat Rokumon and the grim reaper Kain.
Nadia: The Secret of Blue Water
Coming in second place with 45 votes was “Twelve Kingdoms.” It is an anime adaptation of a fantasy novel written by Ono Fuyumi. The story occurs in the “Twelve Kingdoms,” a fictional parallel world reminiscent of Chinese mythology. The main character, Yoko, was initially supposed to be born in the “Twelve Kingdoms,” but was swept away by a storm called the “Eclipse” and lived an ordinary high school life in modern-day Japan. However, a twist of fate calls her back to the “Twelve Kingdoms,” the story depicts her growing up through her adventures in the parallel world. One of the series highlights is the struggles and growth she faces with immortals and demons, as well as Yoko’s inner self.
Twelve Kingdoms
Coming in second place with 45 votes was “Twelve Kingdoms.” It is an anime adaptation of a fantasy novel written by Ono Fuyumi. The story occurs in the “Twelve Kingdoms,” a fictional parallel world reminiscent of Chinese mythology. The main character, Yoko, was initially supposed to be born in the “Twelve Kingdoms,” but was swept away by a storm called the “Eclipse” and lived an ordinary high school life in modern-day Japan. However, a twist of fate calls her back to the “Twelve Kingdoms,” the story depicts her growing up through her adventures in the parallel world. One of the series highlights is the struggles and growth she faces with immortals and demons, as well as Yoko’s inner self.
Cardcaptor Sakura series
Coming in first place with 49 votes was the Cardcaptor Sakura series. This anime series is based on the popular manga Cardcaptor Sakura by CLAMP. Three series were broadcast: the Clow Card arc, the Sakura Card arc, and the Clear Card arc. The story follows the protagonist, Kinomoto Sakura, as she masters the use of magical cards and overcomes various challenges. Sakura’s courageous actions and the distance between her and transfer student Li Syaoran add depth to the story. In addition to the three series, this popular series also had a movie adaptation produced. Sakura’s growth continues to inspire many viewers to this day.
