The latest anime television rankings are in, revealing which shows captured the hearts and viewing habits of audiences in Japan during the week of February 3rd to 9th, 2025. While familiar favorites continue to hold strong, there’s a new leader emerging from the pack.
The Apothecary’s Ascent
Topping the Charts
According to recent reports, The Apothecary Diaries 2nd season has climbed to the top, earning a 4.2% rating. This marks a significant achievement for the series, highlighting its growing popularity and compelling storytelling. The series follows Maomao, a young woman with extensive knowledge of medicine, as she navigates the intricacies of the imperial court. Its blend of mystery, historical setting, and intriguing characters has resonated with a broad audience.
What Makes it So Popular?
- Intriguing Plot: The series presents captivating mysteries and courtly intrigue that keeps viewers hooked.
- Strong Characters: Maomao’s intelligence and resourcefulness make her a compelling protagonist.
- Unique Setting: The historical backdrop of the imperial court provides a rich and fascinating world.
Other Notable Anime
While The Apothecary Diaries leads the charge, several other anime series continue to perform well in the ratings. While specific numbers beyond the top show are currently unavailable, established titles likely maintain a strong presence.
Evergreens
Series like Demon Slayer and Jujutsu Kaisen remain popular staples. Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba is popular. The manga remains a bestseller years after its conclusion, and the movie broke Spirited Away‘s record for the highest-grossing Japanese film of all time. Jujutsu Kaisen is known for its blend of rich characters, beautiful animation, smooth fight scenes, intriguing lore, and a killer soundtrack.
The Ever-Changing Landscape
The anime landscape is constantly evolving, with new series emerging and older ones making a comeback. It will be insightful to see how the rankings shift in the coming weeks as new episodes air and fresh titles debut.
The Enduring Appeal of Anime
A Global Phenomenon
Anime’s popularity extends far beyond Japan, captivating audiences worldwide with its diverse genres, unique art styles, and compelling narratives. From action-packed adventures to heartwarming slice-of-life stories, anime offers something for everyone.
A Brief History
The history of anime can be traced back to the start of the 20th century, with the earliest verifiable films dating from 1917. It wasn’t until the 1960s, with the work of Osamu Tezuka, often called the “God of Manga,” that anime began to take shape as a distinct cultural phenomenon. Tezuka’s Astro Boy (1963) is considered one of the first major anime TV series, setting the foundation for the animation industry. By the 1980s and 1990s, anime had become a global phenomenon, with influential works such as Akira, Dragon Ball, and Sailor Moon reaching international audiences.
Factors Contributing to its Success
- Creative Storytelling: Anime often explores complex themes and emotions, resonating with viewers on a deeper level.
- Visually Stunning Animation: The distinctive art styles and animation techniques used in anime create a unique and captivating visual experience.
- Cultural Impact: Anime has had a significant impact on global pop culture, influencing everything from fashion to music to video games.
The Future of Anime
As technology continues to advance and new platforms emerge, the future of anime looks brighter than ever. With a growing global fanbase and a constant stream of innovative content, anime is poised to remain a dominant force in the entertainment industry for years to come.
