Realistic anime and manga stories are those set in familiar, everyday environments like a typical high school, and they primarily explore the intricacies of human connections, frequently focusing on romantic relationships.
In contrast to other genres, “this specific one” emphasizes building an emotional bond with its characters. Although the ‘slice of life’ genre is also found in Western art, it’s more prevalent in anime (in the West, it manifests differently, such as coming-of-age or classical drama). In this piece, we will introduce you to some outstanding slice-of-life anime.
Here is the list of the 25 best slice of life anime ever. They will be ranked based on the quality of their plots and we are going to bring you some basic information on each of them. We have opted for a wider approach, meaning that you’ll encounter both older and newer titles, as well as titles that aren’t purely comedy, but a combination of genres.
The list will arrange the top anime series from 1st place to 25th place. Each exceptional anime series will have a brief, informative summary accompanying it, allowing you to learn more about the show.
25. Hyouka
Original Run: April 22, 2012 – September 16, 2012
Number of Episodes: 22 + 1 OVA
Currently, Hōtarō Oreki is attending high school, yet he’s resolved on maintaining a long-standing personal rule: performing the bare minimum, avoiding attention, and maintaining an ordinary status, even with his exceptional mental abilities.
Yet, he obtains a letter from his sister Tomoe, suggesting he join the Classical Literature Club that’s about to disband. This leads him to encounter Eru Chitanda, an enthusiastic girl who swiftly notices Oreki’s innate knack for unraveling various mysteries.
24. The Pet Girl of Sakurasou
Original Run: October 9, 2012 – March 26, 2013
Number of Episodes: 24
The Sakura Dormitory is where students live who attend the high school connected to Suimei University of Arts, often shortened as Suiko. It’s home to some peculiar and troublesome students. Following his expulsion from the main dormitory for keeping a stray cat, Sorata Kanda is compelled to relocate to Sakura Dormitory instead.
Initially struggling with everyday tasks, renowned young artist Mashiro Shiina transitions into shared living at the dormitory. This move, however, puts Sorata in a position where he must take charge, essentially becoming Mashiro’s leader. The narrative unfolds as we delve into their day-to-day existence and the progression of their relationship.
23. Tamako Market
Original Run: January 10, 2013 – March 28, 2013
Number of Episodes: 12
In the bustling Usagiyama shopping area, it’s Tamako Kitashirakawa who manages the beloved Tama-ya mochi store, being the eldest family member. One fateful day, Tamako crosses paths with an unusual talking bird named Mochimazzwi, hailing from a distant realm. This peculiar bird is on a quest to find a bride for his nation’s prince.
Subsequently, after consuming an excessive amount of heavy mochi, Dera finds himself forgetting his initial purpose and indulging excessively in Tamako’s gracious hospitality. The narrative unfolds around the daily life of Tamako, her companions, her relatives, and a unique bird that is part of this intriguing scene.
22. Wotakoi: Love Is Hard for Otaku
Original Run: April 13, 2018 – June 22, 2018
Number of Episodes: 11
This comedy series focuses on the unusual romantic relationship between two office workers, Narumi Momose and Hirotaka Nifuji. While Momose is a strict fujoshi who tries to keep her enthusiasm for manga hidden from others, Nifuji is an attractive, skillful individual who often puts down his gaming controller only for work. Despite their seemingly ideal match, love remains complex for these otaku characters.
21. Working!!
Original Run: April 4, 2010 – December 24, 2016
Number of Episodes: 53
The comedy series “Working!!”, set in the restaurant Wagnaria nestled within Hokkaido prefecture, introduces our protagonist: sixteen-year-old Sōta Takanashi. On a fateful day, he encounters Popura Taneshima, an adorable 17-year-old girl seeking a part-time waiter for Wagnaria. Smitten by her cuteness, Sōta accepts the job offer and embarks on his new role as a waiter at Wagnaria.
Besides those managing customer beverages on the restaurant team, there are other staff members who are distinct, enigmatic, and flamboyant. Over time, Sota begins to suspect that these individuals might pose a significant threat to his colleagues.
20. Miss Kobayashi’s Dragon Maid
Original Run: January 12, 2017 – September 23, 2021
Number of Episodes: 25
At the InferNet company, Kobayashi works as a dedicated programmer, but her true passion lies in the image of a waitress from the Victorian era. A sudden turn of events unfolds when, having come home with a hangover, she unintentionally gets lost in the mountains and encounters a dying dragon.
In a different phrasing: Kobayashi rescues both him and the dragon, who had taken on a human appearance. Surprisingly, this human turned out to be a young woman. Despite being still intoxicated, Kobayashi extends her hospitality towards her.
The following morning, Kobayashi, unable to recall the happenings from the night before, encounters a creature resembling a dragon standing outside her home. This creature transforms into a girl adorned with horns and a tail, whom she names Tohru.
Following a quick overview and a fleeting spell of doubt, Kobayashi ultimately chooses to employ her as a waitress. In the tales that follow, Tohru and her dragon companions strive to mingle harmoniously with humans while keeping a low profile.
19. Natsume’s Book of Friends
Original Run: July 7, 2008 – June 21, 2017
Number of Episodes: 74
Natsume has a unique ability to observe yokai and ayakashi, spectral entities from Japanese folklore, which remain invisible to others around him. As a child, he wasn’t fond of them because these ethereal beings often put him in awkward or even perilous situations, causing him to act in ways that ordinary people would find baffling.
Labeled as “odd”, the orphan feels isolated and shunned by other kids, constantly moving from one foster home to another. Mysteriously, a group of supernatural beings, known as youkai, begin pursuing him without any clear reason. During a desperate escape from an assault, he stumbles upon a hidden sanctuary and unwittingly frees Madara – a trapped “cat” entity who had been confined there.
Through this meeting, Natsume uncovers the heritage left behind by his grandmother Reiko – the “Book of Friends,” a journal filled with numerous spirit names. This book endows him with the ability to command these spirits.
In spite of the apprehension and puzzlement he felt, Natsume cultivates connections based on admiration and friendship with specific supernatural beings, embarking on a journey to free the names of these imprisoned spirits by restoring them.
18. Hinamatsuri
Original Run: April 6, 2018 – June 22, 2018
Number of Episodes: 12
On a typical day, Yoshifumi Nitta – a young, driven member of the Ashikawa-gumi yakuza group – found himself unwinding at home. Suddenly, out of nowhere, a peculiar, metallic egg-shaped item plummeted and hit him on the head in his apartment.
In this tale, I find myself caring for a remarkable girl named Hina, gifted with the extraordinary ability of telekinesis. On one side, I recognize the potential advantage of her powers in managing my yakuza business dealings. However, she occasionally struggles to maintain control over her abilities, resulting in unintended destruction of our surroundings.
17. The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya
Original Run: April 2, 2006 – July 2, 2006
Number of Episodes: 14
As a passionate cinephile, I find myself captivated by the character of Haruhi Suzumiya, an extraordinary high school student with an unconventional quest. Rather than pursuing typical adolescent dreams, she’s on a mission to encounter beings from other dimensions – aliens, time travelers, or psychics – that’s what makes her unique!
He finds supernatural, unusual, or enigmatic occurrences fascinating, while ordinary individuals show little interest. In contrast, Kyon, a youthful high school attendee, has become pragmatic and dismissive of such paranormal events after coming to believe that they are merely figments of imagination.
16. Shirobako
Original Run: October 9, 2014 – March 26, 2015
Number of Episodes: 24
The five close companions, Aoi Miyamori, Ema Yasuhara, Shizuka Sakaki, Misa Tōdō, and Midori Imai, pursue careers in the animated film sector following their time honing skills in their high school’s animation club.
The tasks they undertake won’t be a walk in the park; in fact, the narrative highlights the daily challenges they face, along with their determined attempts to surmount them. Notably, the story revolves around Aoi and her team at Musashino Animation as they work tirelessly on creating two anime television series.
15. Aria the Animation
Original Run: October 5, 2005 – March 31, 2008
Number of Episodes: 52
2301 Earth Year: It’s been 150 years since Mars underwent terraforming, resulting in a significant transformation that led to its new moniker, Aqua. This is primarily due to the nearly complete melting of its ice caps, earning it the affectionate title “Water Planet”. As for Earth, it has been renamed Man-Home, reflecting our species’ dominion over it.
Akari Mizunashi, a young woman, relocates to Aqua to master the profession of gondolier-guides, known as Undine, who serve as tour guides in Neo Venice – an underwater replica of the original Venice on Earth that has been entirely submerged.
Set in a city built upon water, devoid of today’s common technological advancements from Earth, we follow the tale of Akari, taking up an apprenticeship at the Aria Company. Her experiences and encounters with various individuals as she navigates her journey towards professional success are intricately woven together.
14. Mushishi
Original Run: October 23, 2005 – December 21, 2014
Number of Episodes: 46
In the realm of storytelling, Mushishi presents an enchanting blend of mythical elements, environmental themes, and timeless Japanese culture. This anime explores various narratives centered around ‘mushi’, fundamental lifeforms that are simpler than any other known lifeforms.
These narratives recount the journey of Ginko, a skilled mushroom expert, one of the rare individuals capable of perceiving them, who possesses a unique ability to draw mushrooms near. This special talent forces him to move frequently and fosters his nomadic lifestyle.
Each episode explores an investigation into various cases, some strangely linked to creatures known as mushi. The impact of each mushi encountered is unique, always evident through their interaction with humanity. These effects span from ailments to extraordinary talents, including the enhancement of soil fertility and the power to revive life.
13. K-On!
Original Run: April 3, 2009 – September 28, 2010
Number of Episodes: 39 + 2 OVAs
In K-ON!, the narrative centers around the school music club at Sakuragaoka High School. When Ritsu Tainaka, who was previously inseparable with Mio Akiyama since childhood, starts their second year, he persuades her to join the light music club. But, if they don’t manage to recruit at least four more members, the club might have to shut down.
Ritsu, who refers to himself as their leader, successfully persuades Tsumugi Kotobuki to become part of the group. Meanwhile, we witness Yui Hirasawa, a spirited and ambitious girl, joining the second week. Nodoka Manabe, her childhood friend, coerces her into joining a club or else she’ll remain isolated from society a few weeks later.
As a devoted film buff, I must confess that Yui ultimately makes the decision to become part of the light band, not fully aware of what role she’d play there. With enthusiasm and curiosity, I embark on a journey of self-discovery, learning the intricacies of the guitar under the supportive gaze of my newfound companions. Later on, Azusa steps into the scene as the second guitarist, enriching our musical harmony even further.
12. Fruits Basket
Original Run: July 5, 2001 – June 29, 2021
Number of Episodes: 89
16-year-old Tohru Honda, who lost her mother, lives by herself in a tent. Unknowingly, she’s moved onto the land owned by the Soma family. As she ventures around, she discovers a house and decides to enter it. Inside, she encounters Yuki and Shigure Soma for the first time. Upon learning about her living situation, they kindly invite her to stay with them and help out with household tasks in return.
Tohru moves in with Yuki, Kyô, and Shigure, finding a new home among them. Swiftly, she uncovers the family’s hidden truth: thirteen of its members are under a curse, which causes them to transform into one of the twelve Chinese zodiac animals. This transformation occurs when someone of the opposite gender touches their neck, they feel embarrassed or even weakened.
A short while afterwards, they regain their human form (the timeframe may fluctuate), yet reemerge in a state of full nudity (which can prove quite inconvenient, particularly for Tohru who frequently witnesses these transformations).
11. Laid-Back Camp
Original Run: January 4, 2018 – March 23, 2020
Number of Episodes: 37 + 4 OVAs
Moving to a rural Japanese town with her family, high schooler Nadeshiko Kagamihara once dozed off during a bike ride and awakened later at night. Camping enthusiast Rin Shima came to her aid until Nadeshiko was collected by her elder sibling. They exchanged contact details, and Nadeshiko decided to embark on another camping trip with her fresh acquaintance, Rin Shima.
At school, energetic Nadeshiko decides to be part of the outdoors club, where she’s joined by Chiaki Ōgaki and Aoi Inuyama. Together, they plan excursions such as camping trips. Meanwhile, Rin attends the same school and is encouraged by her pal Ena Saitō to join them on these camping adventures.
However, the introverted girl usually keeps to herself. Yet, her friend shares with Nadeshiko the location of Rin’s upcoming journey, resulting in an unexpected visit for Rin as she gazes upon Mount Fuji. Intrigued, Nadeshiko cooks a genuine camping meal for Rin, and slowly, she starts to enjoy socializing.
10. Daily Lives of High School Boys
Original Run: January 9, 2012 – March 26, 2012
Number of Episodes: 12 + 6 specials
As a passionate movie enthusiast, I find myself immersed in the simple yet intriguing lives of three teenage characters – Tadakuni, Hidenori, and Yoshitake. Our protagonist, Tadakuni, resides in a delightful family home shared with his younger sister and parents. We follow their routine days at Sanada Nord High School, an all-boys institution that holds a certain charm. Despite the ordinary facade, I can’t help but feel that there’s more to these young men’s stories than meets the eye.
He yearns for a friend similar to his two closest buddies, yet his life is anything but tranquil as they frequently drag him into more than just awkward situations and outlandish schemes. His friends seemingly live at his place, there are instances of his sister’s wardrobe being raided, and their envious classmates who find it hard to bear seeing one of their own socializing or even conversing with a girl.
9. Silver Spoon
Original Run: July 11, 2013 – March 27, 2014
Number of Episodes: 22
Yūgo Hachiken, originally from Sapporo, yearns to venture far from home following high school. To achieve this, he selects the agricultural high school in Yezo called Ōezo, which is secluded in the countryside and offers a boarding facility. While academic subjects are manageable for him, he finds himself with an abundance of practical hours, leaving little free time.
In summary, most of his peers originate from agricultural backgrounds in the area, possessing specialized knowledge that surpasses his own. They’ve also already mapped out their post-school plans, while he excels in areas such as mathematics and may offer assistance to them in this subject.
Hachiken swiftly forms friendships with Ichirō Komaba, Shinnosuke Aikawa, Tamako Inada, and Keiji Tokiwa. Given that he needs to participate in a club too, he chooses the equestrian club. Notably, his classmate Aki Mikage, whom Hachiken develops feelings for, is also an active member of this club.
8. Azumanga Daioh
Original Run: April 8, 2002 – September 30, 2002
Number of Episodes: 26
The story unfolds primarily at a high school situated close to Tokyo. The central characters are teenage students attending this school, along with two of their teachers. Over the course of three years, readers will be privy to a glimpse into their everyday lives, filled with amusing incidents, whether they occur in class, after school hours, or during outings with friends.
The humor in this piece largely stems from the distinct characters and their conflicts, providing a constant source of jokes throughout.
7. Your Lie in April
Original Run: October 9, 2014 – March 19, 2015
Number of Episodes: 22
Kōsei Arima, an exceptional child pianist, reigned supreme in numerous music competitions across Japan, gaining recognition among young musicians. However, this success was not without controversy. Following the death of his mother Saki, he suffered a mental breakdown during a piano competition, causing him to lose the ability to perceive the tones from his piano, despite retaining normal hearing for all other sounds.
It’s been two years since that time, and Kosei hasn’t played the piano during this period. His world seems devoid of depth or vibrancy, appearing only in shades of black and white. His close friends, Tsubaki Sawabe (a softball player) and Ryota Watari (a soccer player), have been trying to lift his spirits. They organize a double date for him, hoping to introduce a girl who might add some color back into Kosei’s monochrome existence: Kaori Miyazono.
The unconventional 14-year-old violin prodigy, whose performance mirrors her erratic temperament, encourages Kosei’s reentry into the music realm by urging him to resume playing the piano. By performing on the violin, she also underscores that her style is carefree and vivacious, in stark contrast to Kosei’s formal and strict approach.
6. Dagashi Kashi
Original Run: January 7, 2016 – March 30, 2018
Number of Episodes: 24
The narrative unfolds around Kokonotsu, a teenage lad living in the countryside, who disregards his father’s wishes for him to run their family business – a sweet shop. One eventful day, an enchanting girl named Hotaru enters the store, with a deep-rooted passion for candies.
After that point, she repeatedly returned to persuade our protagonist into managing the family business. Additionally, the candies and other sugary treats depicted in the artwork are real (or once were). The narrative is primarily shared by Hotaru, yet occasionally by Kokonotsu, based on the specific situation.
5. Non Non Biyori
Original Run: October 8, 2013 – March 29, 2021
Number of Episodes: 36 + 3 OVAs
The narrative unfolds in Asahigaoka, a quaint rural hamlet with minimal urban conveniences. Distances to the town’s shops can be considerable, and the school, serving just five pupils, has them sharing classes across multiple grades.
Fifth-grader Hotaru Ichijō transitions from bustling Tokyo to a tranquil village, acclimating herself to its leisurely rhythm. Alongside her are companions such as sixth-grader Natsumi, seventh-grader Komari, first-grader Renge, and eighth-grader Suguru, who is the elder brother of Natsumi and Komari.
4. Nichijou
Original Run: April 3, 2011 – September 25, 2011
Number of Episodes: 26
The show chronicles the everyday lives of diverse city dwellers in Tokisadame, such as the lively Yūko Aioi, the cheerful Mio Naganohara, the composed Mai Minakami, the anxious robot Nano Shinonome, her creator who also happens to be a teacher, and Sakamoto – a cat with the gift of speech.
In this world filled with unusual oddities, there’s a robot girl crafted by an ingenious eight-year-old inventor, a student who commutes to school on a goat accompanied by his butler, a pupil capable of wielding multiple firearms, a chatty feline, and a principal who once engaged in combat with a deer. Amidst these peculiarities, the students carry on with their ordinary lives.
3. Barakamon
Original Run: July 6, 2014 – September 23, 2016
Number of Episodes: 24
Although Seishu Handa is still young, he is a skilled calligrapher by profession. However, one day, overwhelmed by fury, he strikes the museum curator who criticizes his art as dull and unrefined. As a consequence, his father imposes exile on him, sending him to live in isolation on one of the remote Gotō Islands. There, Seishu anticipates tranquility and an opportunity to create more art, yet he soon encounters new acquaintances who will impact his life.
2. Toradora!
Original Run: October 2, 2008 – March 26, 2009
Number of Episodes: 25
Ryuuji Takasu, a Japanese teenager, is back in his senior year of high school and resides with his mom. Ideally, he’d blend into the crowd as an average student, but there’s a catch – his striking eyes make people think twice about approaching him.
Due to his ominous personality, various unfounded stories persistently spread about him. These rumors suggest he could lash out at those who bump into him and even be prepared to harm others, but in reality, he’s a deeply sensitive young man.
Due to these circumstances, he finds it challenging to form friendships and struggles most with not having a romantic partner. Fortunately, he shares a classroom with his closest friend Yūsaki Kitamura and his affectionate interest, the charming Minori Kushieda.
1. Anohana: The Flower We Saw That Day
Original Run: April 14, 2011 – June 23, 2011
Number of Episodes: 11
Six long-time companions parted ways following the unfortunate demise of one member, Meiko “Menma” Honma, in a mishap. A decade later, Jinta Yadomi, the head of their group, withdrew from social life and spent his days in solitude.
On a sunny summer day, unexpectedly, Menma reappears before Jinta, seeming to have grown older, and requests his aid in granting her long-held wish. She is convinced that by fulfilling it, she can meet her destiny. However, Menma can’t recall what her wish entails, leading Jinta to bring together their old friends from childhood, as Menma thinks they hold the solution to this mystery.
Yet, the secret emotions, personal struggles, and ongoing sorrow experienced by Menma’s parents create complexities for the group, as they find it challenging not just to assist Menma, but also to deal with their own issues.
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2025-05-18 14:58