'The Apothecary Diaries' and 4 Other Highest-Rated Historical Anime, Ranked by IMDb
These anime offer a unique window into the past.
Recently, The Apothecary Diaries has become a true anime phenomenon – a story with a charming main character and an atmosphere of palace intrigue that has captivated millions.
In this list, we've compiled four more highly rated historical anime titles in which samurai duty meets magic and the fate of entire empires is decided amid labyrinthine court conspiracies.
5. 'In This Corner of the World', 2016
IMDb Score: 7.8/10
Japan, 1940s. Young Suzu marries a salaryman and moves from Hiroshima to a small coastal town.
The peaceful life she had known was shattered by the realities of World War II: food shortages, bombings, and constant fear for her loved ones became part of everyday life. Nevertheless, Suzu strives to preserve her personal happiness by drawing and supporting her family.
Even amid disaster, Suzu notices the fragile beauty of the world around her, retains her warmth, and maintains hope for a better future.
4. 'Barefoot Gen', 1983
IMDb Score: 8.0/10
The story of Gen, a young boy, unfolds in Hiroshima in 1945. He witnesses the destruction of his hometown by an atomic bomb.
Having lost part of his family, his friends, and his home, Gen is plunged into the hopelessness of his new reality. Surrounded by death and destruction, Gen struggles with all his might to survive, holding on to his humanity.
3. 'The Apothecary Diaries', 2023-...
IMDb Score: 8.6/10
The story is set in Tang Dynasty China. Maomao, a gifted young woman, is kidnapped and sold to the imperial palace.
Over time, she discovers a way to use her extraordinary medical knowledge to help others. Her insight attracts the attention of high-ranking officials, and she soon finds herself drawn into palace intrigue.
Now, Maomao must use her skills to heal and solve mysteries, large and small.
2. 'Vinland Saga', 2019-2023
IMDb Score: 8.8/10
At the turn of the 10th and 11th centuries, Thorfinn's father is killed in a skirmish with mercenaries. This leaves the young Viking consumed by a thirst for revenge.
His journey takes him through bloody battles, suffering, and a constant struggle for survival. During this time, Thorfinn becomes involved in campaigns against England, Scandinavian feuds, and the search for the legendary Vinland – a land free of war.
The plot tells the story of the Viking Age through Thorfinn's personal journey as he matures amid one of the most violent periods in European history.
1. 'Kingdom', 2012-...
IMDb Score: 8.8/10
During the Warring States period, young peasant Xin dreams of becoming a great general and helping to unify China. His dreams begin to come true when he meets the young King Ying Zheng, who is destined to fight for the throne.
Together, the two men navigate bloody battles, intrigue, and political conspiracies that threaten the fate of the entire Chinese empire.
