5 Best Anime Set in Feudal Japan, Ranked

While most classic historical anime are based on Japan’s Edo period, it’s much harder to find ones that are primarily set during the more ancient feudal era. Therefore, after going through all the anime that are primarily set in feudal Japan, we’ve listed the five best here. Based on their overall narrative quality and influence within the community, we’ve even ranked them from great to masterpiece.

5 Sengoku Basara Offers Exaggerated High-Octane Samurai Action

A still from Sengoku Basara | Credits: Production I.G

Although Sengoku Basara is set in late feudal-era Japan and focuses more on exaggerated, high-octane action sequences, that doesn’t make it any less entertaining. In fact, it’s quite the opposite. Primarily adapted from an action video game, it makes sense why the anime features so many cool and over-the-top fights. The characters are so exaggerated that it actually becomes funny at times as well. However, since it lacks the narrative depth of some of the other entries, it ranks 5th on the list.

4 Afro Samurai Is the Most Stylistic Anime Set in Feudal-Japan

Afro in a still from Afro Samurai | Credits: Gonzo

Without a doubt, Afro Samurai is the most stylistic action anime set in medieval Japan. The narrative follows a world deeply inspired by feudal Japan, yet infused with a modern hip-hop aesthetic. Therefore, it’s famously described as a neo-feudal Japan-based anime. The direction, crazy animation, and choreography all come together seamlessly to create a visual masterpiece. All of this gives Afro Samurai an edge over many other historical anime. Therefore, it at least deserves the 4th spot on the list.

3 Ninja Scroll Features Excellent Sword Fights With Fluid Animation

Jubei Kibagami in a still from Ninja Scroll | Credits: Animate Film

The original Ninja Scroll movie itself is a historical classic. Every 2000s kid knows it. Set during the final and most centralized phase of feudal Japan, near the Edo period, the anime is particularly notable for its fluid animation and unique mature art style, which wasn’t as common back in the 90s when it first came out. However, what truly earns Ninja Scroll a place in the top 5 is the MC’s journey, which takes him through a dark version of feudal Japan filled with conspiracies and supernatural enemies.

2 Dororo Explores Heavy Narrative Themes of War and Sacrifice

Hyakkimaru in a still from Dororo | Credits: MAPPA, Tezuka Productions

Dororo offers far more than just a feudal Japan setting with cool action. It simply uses the setting as a backdrop and weaves a narrative surrounding themes of sacrifice, poverty, violence, morality, and the devastating consequences of war. The core dynamic between Hyakkimaru and Dororo in the anime will also captivate you and make you want to follow them on their quest. Along with its phenomenal narrative and being the creation of the God of Manga himself, Osamu Tezuka, Dororo deserves 2nd place.

1 Inuyasha Perfectly Blends History With Supernatural Fantasy

Inuyasha is arguably one of the most influential anime of all time. As a creation of Rumiko Takahashi herself, the series became a massive hit when it was first released and is still considered one of the best-written pieces of fiction based on feudal-era Japan. The way the series incorporates elements associated with the Sengoku period alongside fantasy elements such as demons, spiritual powers, and mythical creatures is simply incredible. Therefore, it more than deserves the #1 spot on the list.

So, what are your thoughts on the above list? Did you wish to see some of your other favorites here? Feel free to share with us.