It can be hard to imagine horror stories doing well in anime, as the jump-scares typically wouldn’t be as effective and impactful. However, the horror genre is much more than cheap frights -- it’s about that bone-chilling feeling the story creates throughout its runtime.
There may not be countless examples of great series like there are in shonen or shoujo, but anime features some horror masterpieces that are downright creepy. For fans who crave some spookiness, the following are among the greatest horror anime of all time and are downright spine-tingling.
Boogiepop Phantom Is Creepy and Compelling
When a Japanese city is plagued by a series of horrific, ritualistic murders, it’s evident that something unnatural is to blame. Boogiepop Phantom follows the urban legend of Boogiepop, who seems like the personification of Death. The city's people grow fearful each night in this anthology series, as once anyone comes face to face with the Boogiepop is taken – at least, that’s how the rumor goes.
There’s a certain thrill to Boogiepop as it will keep drifting in and out of reality, leaving the audience puzzled. The story makes good use of urban fantasies and makes viewers wonder whether such malevolent evil exists in the real world too.
Devilman Crybaby Is Downright Terrifying
The title may sound like a typical shonen synopsis, but events grow quite unsettling in Devilman Crybaby. The demons in this anime aren’t friendly or even pushovers; rather, they are oversexualized, violent and unnerving. Devilman Crybaby can be a rollercoaster for many – there are a lot of brutalities, psychedelic visuals, gore, religious subtext, explicit content and loads of demons.
Protagonist Akira Fudo is living a quiet life until his best friend plunges him into the world of demons and darkness -- and even plans on using Akira for personal gains. It’s a perfect watch for horror fans not looking for content with deep plots.
Yami Shibai Is Everyone’s Worst Nightmare
This title is also known as Japanese Ghost Stories, so it’s clear that watching Yami Shibai will be a disturbing experience. It's a perfect watch for anyone who loves the good old urban legend-driven horror content presented through quality storytelling. Yami Shibai follows several short stories centered around various Japanese urban legends that have been passed down for years.
This horror-fueled creep-fest will leave the audience in a cold sweat -- especially those watching with the lights off. The best thing about this show is that it doesn’t waste time with overused tropes. It uses a unique yet creepy theatrics art style to tell these spine-chilling stories. Each presentation offers a different disturbing myth that will keep the audience glued to the screens.
The Junji Ito Collection Should Come With a Warning
Based on the hugely popular manga, Junji Ito is a never-ending nightmare of short horror stories that will give viewers goosebumps. Although many Ito fans would say this anime didn’t do justice to the manga, it’s still a wonderful watch and is hands down one of the best anime horror series.
Viewers are exposed to horrific stories of a cursed town where poor travelers would find spirits cursing them at mist-filled crossroads, or slugs growing inside a girl’s mouth. The Junji Ito Collection stays incredibly true to its nature, and there’s no beating around the bush when it comes to the stories. It’s a Japanese horror masterpiece and a great go-to series for horror lovers.