Best Anime That Make You Smarter

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Summary

  • Anime genres go beyond action, with shows like Bakuman educating viewers on manga creation.
  • Case Closed offers engaging mystery plotlines that challenge viewers’ problem-solving skills.
  • Dr. Stone teaches post-apocalyptic concepts while showcasing technological advancements in a stone-age setting.

People who haven’t experienced anime might think that it’s all about aggression. However, “Dragon Ball Z” is often seen as the iconic representation in the West due to its massive popularity in the 90s, yet there are other renowned action anime like “Attack on Titan” or “Naruto” that challenge this stereotype.

For those unfamiliar with anime, it’s important to understand that this medium, much like movies, books, or video games, offers a diverse array of genres. Some anime series are uniquely capable of imparting knowledge in an engaging and entertaining way, making learning feel more like a captivating experience rather than a classroom lesson. Although not all content may be historically accurate, the effort to subtly weave educational elements into storylines is commendable for its innovative approach. Here are some noteworthy examples that demonstrate this blend of entertainment and education.

Bakuman

How Does Manga Get Made

Bakuman” is an excellent anime for manga enthusiasts or anyone curious about the inner workings of manga creation. The narrative focuses on Moritaka, an aspiring artist, and Akito, his collaborator, as they strive to produce a top-tier manga together.

The manga “Bakuman” was crafted by Tsugumi Ohba, a creator particularly recognized among anime and manga enthusiasts for his work on “Death Note.” Although “Bakuman” may not match the captivating excitement of “Death Note,” its compelling characters serve to enlighten viewers about one of Japan’s largest industries.

Case Closed

A Pint-Sized Adventure

In Japan, “Detective Conan” or “Case Closed” is an anime series that shares similarities with Western shows such as “Law & Order” and “NCIS”, focusing on procedural mysteries. The main character, Shinichi, a teenage detective, is transformed into a child by a criminal group in the storyline. Throughout more than a thousand episodes, while new characters have been introduced, there hasn’t been significant progress in the central plot concerning Shinichi regaining his adult form.

In a manner similar to a thrilling weekly murder mystery, the show Case Closed challenges its audience to decipher the ending. While not every twist is logically sound, it offers an exciting and thought-provoking journey, which might be quirky yet intellectually stimulating.

Cells At Work

The Magic School Bus: If It Were An Anime

90’s children, who fondly remember watching “The Magic School Bus” on PBS, will likely recall episodes diving into the human body, educating them about different blood cells. For those reminiscing about this animated series and seeking to further their knowledge of the body, but through an anime format, I’d suggest giving “Cells at Work” a try.

This anime may not seem captivating at first, and it might challenge your ability to suspend disbelief regarding humanoid characters functioning within the human body. However, if you’re someone with an engaging imagination, I recommend giving Cells at Work a try.

Dr. Stone

Apocalyptic Learning

In a unique narrative twist, Dr. Stone presents a far-fetched scenario yet manages to impart essential concepts that are often overlooked by many. Set thousands of years from now following a cataclysmic event, the story unfolds with humanity gradually emerging from stone after having been petrified overnight.

18-year-old prodigy Senku aims to reintroduce modern technology and customs to Japan, which has fallen into a Stone Age-like state. With his extensive knowledge in tech and culinary arts, even in this primitive setting, he successfully creates items like cola, ramen, electricity, and even cell phones. The transformation of products is one of the most intriguing aspects of the series.

Great Teacher Onizuka

A Delinquent Becomes An Inspiration

Great Teacher Onizuka, or simply GTO, centers around a past troublemaker named Onizuka, who unexpectedly takes on the role of a teacher. Initially, he views the position as a bit of a trick, but over time, he learns to show understanding and tolerance towards his colleagues and pupils.

Initially, none of the students took to him, yet Onizuka’s unconventional teaching methods eventually won them over. This drama offers insights into human changeability and the functioning of Japanese schools, all while presenting an undeniably unusual perspective. Despite its quirks, each major plotline provides valuable lessons.

Oishinbo

An Underrated Gem For Japanese Food Culture

Oishinbo” is undoubtedly one of the least known anime series available. Originating from a manga that debuted in 1983 and continues to this day, although currently on hiatus, the anime was produced between 1988 and 1992 in Japan, with a substantial number of episodes. The storyline revolves around journalist Shiro and his assistant Yuko as they travel across Japan for their food and culture column in a newspaper.

Viewers can discover all aspects of Japanese cuisine, beverages, and tradition, including proper sushi eating techniques and appropriate attire. There’s an abundance of anime inspired by food, with many acknowledging Oishinbo for its pioneering role in presenting relatable narratives. Regrettably, it didn’t achieve widespread popularity beyond Japan.

Ping Pong The Animation

A Sports Anime That Breaks Boundaries

In the vast world of animated series and comics, you’ll find one tailored to almost every sport imaginable, be it badminton or soccer, each unique in its educational style. Among these, “Ping Pong the Animation” distinguishes itself by offering a raw, authentic portrayal of the intense competition that defines the sport.

In a more conversational tone, Some personalities are overconfident but eventually learn to work together with others, thanks in part to coaches who provide timely guidance when needed. What truly sets this anime apart is its unique visual aesthetic, making it worth discovering for this reason alone.

Welcome To The N.H.K.

Learn About A Japanese Trend

Experiencing yet another compelling glimpse into Japanese culture, I found myself immersed in the world of “Welcome to the N.H.K.” remarkably similar to the educational system portrayed in “Great Teacher Onizuka.” Here, individuals often referred to as NEETs (Not in Education, Employment, or Training), live a solitary existence within confined spaces, lacking a clear purpose in life, much like myself observing from the periphery.

In simpler terms, NEETs are often portrayed as resembling the Western stereotype of individuals spending most of their time in their basements, typically associated with socially awkward or eccentric “nerds”. However, the anime series about them doesn’t focus solely on depressing themes; instead, it offers a lively, comedic narrative filled with quirky characters who are striving for personal growth.

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2025-08-27 08:35