6 Best 2000s Anime You Can Stream on Netflix

Most anime fans today fondly remember watching shows from the 2000s. This decade was a turning point for anime outside of Japan, helping it become a major part of popular culture, and many classic anime series were released then. Unfortunately, with the growth of streaming services, some of these beloved shows are now hard to find and watch.

Although more effort is needed to save classic anime from the 2000s, streaming services like Netflix have done a fantastic job bringing back beloved series that defined the decade for anime fans. Within Netflix’s extensive library, certain shows truly capture what made the 2000s so memorable. These are essential viewing for newer fans discovering them for the first time, or for those wanting to relive the highlights of that era.

Inuyasha

Kagome was a typical Japanese high school student, aside from a few quirks. Her life changed dramatically when she fell into an old well near her house and found herself in feudal Japan, right in the middle of a fight over a powerful artifact called the Jewel of Four Souls. There, she met Inuyasha, a half-demon who was wrongly accused of stealing the jewel and heartbroken after being betrayed by a woman named Kikyo – who, surprisingly, was a past version of Kagome herself. While trying to find a way back to her own time, Kagome gets caught up in Inuyasha’s struggle.

Things get much harder for her when the sacred jewel shatters into countless pieces. An evil demon named Naraku begins hunting those pieces, intending to twist the jewel’s power for his own wicked plans. Kagome finds herself teaming up with the often-abrasive Inuyasha, and together they journey across the land to collect the fragments. Along the way, they make new friends, and Kagome starts to realize Inuyasha isn’t as bad as she first thought. Considered a classic of the Shojo genre, Inuyasha has captivated audiences worldwide with its heartwarming story.

Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood

After a failed attempt to resurrect their mother using alchemy, the Elric brothers faced a terrible consequence. Edward lost his right arm and left leg, and Alphonse’s entire body vanished, leaving his soul trapped inside a suit of armor. Ever since, the brothers have been on a quest to find the Philosopher’s Stone – a legendary object said to grant alchemists the power to bypass the laws of nature – hoping it can restore them to their original forms.

Their journey took an unexpected turn when they enlisted in the military, hoping to finance their ultimate goal. But as they investigated the legendary treasure they sought, they uncovered disturbing secrets about their nation’s past. To make matters worse, they found themselves caught in a desperate fight for survival against seemingly immortal, artificial beings called homunculi, and their mysterious leader. Inspired by a critically acclaimed manga created by a female author, this is a captivating and intricate fantasy story that’s sure to stay with you.

Death Note

Light Yagami was known from a young age as an incredibly gifted person, expected to achieve great things. However, he found the world rather dull until he discovered a strange notebook. This notebook, called the Death Note, had a terrifying power: anyone whose name was written in it would die, as long as the writer knew their name and face.

Initially dismissing the book as a prank, Light tried it out and was stunned when the person he wrote about actually died, just as the notebook described. Believing he now possessed the ultimate power, the brilliant student convinced himself he was meant to be the ‘God of the New World,’ and began punishing criminals with harsh and agonizing deaths. L, a remarkably intelligent detective from the anime world, pursues Light in a complex and captivating psychological thriller that has been celebrated for years.

Ouran High School Host Club

Ouran High School is a highly exclusive school, reserved for children from wealthy families. That is, until Haruhi earns a scholarship through her intelligence and hard work. While exploring the school, she discovers a unique club where the most attractive boys entertain female students who are willing to pay for their company.

Haruhi accidentally breaks a very valuable vase her family could never afford to replace. The members of her school club offer a solution: she’ll work things off by joining them until she earns enough money. They also playfully suggest her often being mistaken for a boy makes her a good fit. This unusual arrangement sparks a funny and heartwarming story full of self-discovery, laughter, and charming romantic interests – making it a beloved classic in the Shojo genre.

From Me to You: Kimi ni Todoke

High school hasn’t been easy for Sawako. Because of her shy personality and striking looks, she’s been avoided and even teased by many classmates, who cruelly compare her to a ghost named Sadako. Though she does have supportive friends, school is often a struggle. Everything begins to change, however, when she unexpectedly meets Shota, the most popular boy at school.

Sawako is learning to come out of her shell with the support of a new friend, which is opening doors to new experiences and connections. As she gets closer to Shota, she’ll also navigate the challenges and joys of growing up – perhaps even experiencing first love. This beloved anime is known for its beautiful and touching love story, and it’s sure to lift your spirits with its gentle and heartwarming story.

Hajime no Ippo: The Fighting!

When a group of bullies attacks the timid and weak Ippo, he’s rescued by the famous boxer Mamoru Takamura. Inspired by Takamura’s skill, Ippo asks him to be his trainer, hoping boxing will give him the courage to defend himself. This begins a difficult training process that will lead to a memorable confrontation with his bullies, and a challenging path filled with both hardship and triumph.

Ippo isn’t content with simply improving; he’s determined to become a boxing legend, just like his mentor, and will challenge the world’s toughest fighters to do it. The series is widely considered inspiring for viewers of all ages, showcasing a level of dedication, passion, and hard work that goes above and beyond the norm. Many fans agree that Hajime no Ippo is one of the greatest sports anime ever made, and it’s definitely worth watching.

2026-04-12 21:35