20 Things You Definitely Didn’t Know About Anime

Anime has captivated audiences around the world with its colorful characters, epic storylines, and unique art styles. For many, it’s more than just a form of entertainment—it's a cultural phenomenon. Whether you're a longtime fan or someone just starting to explore the vast world of anime, there's always something new to learn. From its historical roots to its modern-day impact on pop culture, anime is full of fascinating facts that even the most dedicated fans might not know. In this post, we’ll uncover 20 surprising things about anime that might just change the way you look at your favorite series. Get ready for some unexpected discoveries!

1. The Origins of the Word "Anime"

You might be surprised to learn that the word anime isn’t exclusive to Japanese animation. In Japan, anime (アニメ) is simply the term used to describe all forms of animation, regardless of origin. It’s derived from the English word "animation" and is a phonetic approximation of the term in Japanese. Outside of Japan, however, anime has come to specifically refer to animation produced in Japan, often with a distinct art style and storytelling approach that sets it apart from Western cartoons.

This distinction means that in Japan, people don’t necessarily associate anime with any particular cultural genre—it’s just animation. But as the global fanbase grew, anime began to take on its own identity, with fans around the world associating it with unique genres, art styles, and storytelling techniques that often feature deep emotional narratives, fantastical worlds, and complex characters. So while it’s easy to think of "anime" as something exclusively Japanese, its roots actually lie in the same broad concept of animated content enjoyed worldwide.

This shift in meaning reflects how anime has become a genre with a massive, dedicated global following, leading to entire subcultures of fans and communities centered around it. Yet, despite all its influence, it’s a term that started as a simple word for animation in Japan, evolving to encompass a whole world of unique and diverse storytelling.

2. Not All Anime is for Kids

When most people think of anime, they picture bright, colorful shows with cute characters, epic adventures, and often lighthearted plots. This association comes from popular series like Pokémon, Dragon Ball, or Sailor Moon, which are widely known and loved by children around the world. However, the anime world is much more diverse than that, and not all anime is intended for younger audiences.

There are several genres within anime specifically tailored to adult viewers. For example, seinen anime, which targets men aged 18 and up, tends to focus on more mature themes, such as psychological drama, politics, and deep philosophical questions. Shows like Berserk, Ghost in the Shell, and Tokyo Ghoul fall under this category, featuring darker, more complex narratives and often graphic violence.

On the other hand, josei anime is targeted at adult women and typically explores themes of romance, relationships, and personal growth. Popular examples include Nana and Paradise Kiss, which offer realistic depictions of adult life, often with a focus on emotional and social complexities.

Additionally, there’s a subgenre known as hentai, which refers to explicit adult content that, while it may fall under the broader umbrella of anime, is specifically made for mature audiences and deals with sexual themes.

These genres show that anime is far from being a simple form of children's entertainment. It spans a wide range of emotions, themes, and stories, much like any other form of media—films, television series, or books. Anime can be thought-provoking, deep, and even uncomfortable, but it also offers unique insights into human nature and society that appeal to a mature audience.

3. Anime Has Been Around Longer Than You Think

Anime might feel like a modern phenomenon, but its history dates back over a century. The very first Japanese animated film, Namakura Gatana (The Dull Sword), was released in 1917. This silent, four-minute short tells the humorous story of a samurai who buys a dull sword and attempts to test it, only to fail miserably. Created by Jun'ichi Kōuchi, often regarded as one of the pioneers of Japanese animation, Namakura Gatana was groundbreaking for its time, blending comedy and storytelling in an entirely new medium.

Interestingly, Namakura Gatana was rediscovered in 2008, giving anime enthusiasts a rare glimpse into the medium's earliest days. The film showcases the humble beginnings of what would later evolve into the vibrant, complex art form that anime is today.

These early anime works were heavily inspired by Western animation techniques, with Japanese creators experimenting with cell animation and other methods introduced by studios like Disney. However, as the medium developed, Japanese animators began incorporating their own cultural elements and storytelling traditions, giving rise to the unique style that defines anime today.

The fact that anime has been around for over a century highlights how deeply ingrained it is in Japanese culture and how far it has come—from hand-drawn silent shorts to the global powerhouse of creativity and innovation we see today.

4. The Influence of Manga on Anime

The close relationship between manga (Japanese comics) and anime is one of the defining features of the medium. A vast majority of popular anime series are adapted from manga, serving as visual translations of their printed counterparts. This connection is so strong that the success of a manga can often dictate whether it will be developed into an anime.

The process typically begins with a manga series gaining a significant fanbase. Once it proves to be a hit, studios might step in to produce an anime adaptation, bringing the story to life with motion, voice acting, and music. Iconic series like Dragon Ball, Naruto, and Attack on Titan all began as manga before achieving massive success in animated form.

However, the influence goes beyond simple adaptation. Many anime series closely follow the manga's plotline to retain its authenticity, but others choose to diverge due to time constraints or to give fans an original experience. For example, Fullmetal Alchemist had two adaptations: the first diverged from the manga and created its own storyline, while Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood remained faithful to the original material.

Manga also impacts the pacing and style of anime. Since manga is a serialized medium, anime often mirrors this structure, breaking stories into seasons or arcs that align with their source material. This allows viewers to experience the narrative in digestible episodes while maintaining the essence of the manga.

The manga industry has become a testing ground for innovative ideas and storytelling, shaping the world of anime as we know it. Without it, many beloved series might never have reached the screens of anime fans worldwide.

5. The Famous Studio Ghibli Curse

Studio Ghibli is known worldwide for creating some of the most beloved and critically acclaimed animated films, such as My Neighbor Totoro and Spirited Away. However, there’s a fascinating superstition in the animation industry about the so-called "Studio Ghibli Curse." According to this belief, no Ghibli film can be completed without one of the directors facing a significant crisis or challenge during production.

For instance, Princess Mononoke (1997) was created while Hayao Miyazaki dealt with health issues and immense stress due to the film's ambitious scope and environmental themes. Similarly, The Wind Rises (2013) pushed Miyazaki to emotional and creative limits, as it was both a deeply personal story and his supposed "final" film (though he later returned with How Do You Live?).

In another example, co-founder Isao Takahata faced numerous setbacks while directing The Tale of the Princess Kaguya (2013), including budget overruns and delays. The film took over eight years to complete, significantly longer than most animated films.

This "curse" is often attributed to the studio's perfectionism and the immense pressure its directors place on themselves to produce masterpieces. Whether the curse is real or simply the byproduct of high artistic standards, it adds an intriguing layer of mystique to Studio Ghibli's legacy.

6. Anime Uses Symbolism in Unique Ways

One of anime’s most captivating traits is its deep use of symbolism, where visual and narrative cues often convey emotions, themes, or character arcs. Unlike many other forms of media, anime frequently blends cultural, historical, and artistic elements to create layers of meaning.

For example, the recurring use of cherry blossoms (sakura) symbolizes the transient nature of life, beauty, and renewal. This motif often appears in emotional moments, like farewells or personal epiphanies.

Another powerful symbol is the focus on eyes. Anime characters' eyes are often exaggerated not just for aesthetic purposes but also as a storytelling tool. Large, sparkling eyes can signify innocence or naivety, while narrowed or shadowed eyes might represent cunning, grief, or malevolence.

Even everyday objects can take on profound meaning. In Your Name, the red thread of fate—a reference to a Japanese legend—connects the protagonists, representing destiny and love across time and space. Similarly, anime often uses the rainy season to reflect melancholy or the turning point in a story.

This artistic approach to layering meaning makes anime resonate emotionally with its audience, creating a unique viewing experience that invites interpretation and reflection.

7. The Word “Otaku” Has a Negative Connotation in Japan

While "otaku" is celebrated outside Japan as a badge of honor among anime and manga enthusiasts, its meaning in Japan is more complex and often negative. In its native context, "otaku" describes someone with an obsessive interest, typically in niche hobbies such as anime, manga, video games, or technology.

The term gained notoriety in the late 1980s following a series of high-profile crimes committed by Tsutomu Miyazaki, who was labeled "The Otaku Murderer" by the media. This created a widespread stigma associating otaku culture with social withdrawal, perversion, and anti-social behavior.

In Japan, being called an "otaku" can imply being so absorbed in a hobby that it leads to neglect of personal relationships or societal norms. It's comparable to being labeled a "nerd" or "geek" but with stronger implications of social isolation.

Interestingly, recent years have seen a softening of the term's negative undertones as otaku culture gains mainstream acceptance through events like Comiket, Akihabara's thriving subculture, and the global popularity of anime. Some individuals in Japan now wear the label "otaku" proudly, but its perception largely depends on context and the audience.

8. The Unspoken Rule of "The Big Three"

For over a decade, Naruto, Bleach, and One Piece were heralded as the "Big Three" of anime. This title was unofficial yet widely recognized within the anime community, signifying their unparalleled dominance during the 2000s. These three series weren't just long-running; they consistently topped charts, built massive global fandoms, and influenced countless creators.

Each show contributed something unique:

• Naruto captured audiences with its themes of perseverance, friendships, and epic ninja battles.
• Bleach drew fans in with its stylish aesthetic, supernatural battles, and complex character dynamics.
• One Piece stood out with its boundless creativity, emotional storytelling, and record-breaking longevity as the tale of Luffy and his crew continues to evolve even today.

However, as newer anime such as Attack on Titan, Demon Slayer, and Jujutsu Kaisen rose to prominence, the "Big Three" era slowly gave way to a broader diversity of popular anime. Despite this, the legacy of Naruto, Bleach, and One Piece remains a benchmark for success in the anime world.

9. The Hidden Art of "Ashi"

In anime, even the most seemingly mundane details can be an art form, and ashi (Japanese for "legs" or "feet") is no exception. The way legs and feet are animated often reflects the style, tone, and mood of the scene or the character's personality.

Exaggerated movements, such as a character stomping their foot or elegantly crossing their legs, can emphasize emotion, attitude, or drama. The positioning of legs during action sequences might also heighten the intensity of a fight or showcase a specific fighting style. In romantic or slice-of-life anime, small movements like a foot tapping nervously or dangling off a chair can add layers of relatability and nuance to a character's behavior.

Some animators even make legs a focal point for stylistic expression. For instance, the famous animator Yutaka Nakamura is known for his intricate attention to detail in fight scenes, where the fluid movements of characters' legs are as crucial as their punches or weapon strikes.

10. Voice Acting (Seiyuu) is a Whole Career

In Japan, voice acting is taken to a whole new level. Known as seiyuu, Japanese voice actors are highly regarded as celebrities in their own right. They often have dedicated fan bases, host radio shows, appear at live events, and even pursue parallel careers as singers or performers. Many seiyuu release their own music albums or perform live concerts where fans gather to celebrate their favorite voices.

This career path is fiercely competitive, with thousands of aspiring actors vying for limited roles. Training to become a seiyuu involves not only mastering vocal delivery but also learning to embody characters, express deep emotions, and perform in a wide range of genres—from action-packed shonen to emotional dramas and light-hearted comedies.

Some legendary seiyuu have become icons, such as Megumi Hayashibara (the voice of Rei Ayanami from Neon Genesis Evangelion), known for her singing career, or Mamoru Miyano (Light Yagami from Death Note), who dazzles fans with his charismatic performances. The cultural impact of seiyuu extends beyond Japan, as their work brings anime characters to life globally.

11. Anime Soundtracks Are Iconic

Anime music is more than just background noise—it plays a crucial role in shaping the emotional and atmospheric experience of a series. For example, Cowboy Bebop’s jazz-filled soundtrack by Yoko Kanno and The Seatbelts is considered a masterpiece that perfectly complements the show's space-western theme. Similarly, Neon Genesis Evangelion features a haunting mix of classical music and the unforgettable opening theme "A Cruel Angel's Thesis," which has become a cultural phenomenon in itself.

Opening and ending themes are often performed by well-known Japanese artists, adding to their appeal and making them chart-toppers in the Japanese music industry. Soundtracks also serve as storytelling devices, with specific themes assigned to characters or repeated during pivotal moments to evoke strong emotions.

Many anime fans find themselves revisiting soundtracks long after watching a show, using them as a gateway to Japanese music or as nostalgic reminders of beloved series. From orchestral scores to electronic beats, anime soundtracks showcase Japan's diverse musical talent and enrich the viewing experience.

12. Anime as a Marketing Tool

In Japan, anime isn't just entertainment—it's a powerful marketing tool used to promote everything from regional tourism to consumer products. For instance, cities often create "moe" anime-style mascots to attract visitors. The town of Oarai became a hotspot for anime tourism after featuring prominently in the series Girls und Panzer. Fans traveled to the location to see real-life landmarks depicted in the show, boosting local businesses.

Anime characters also appear in commercials, advertisements, and product branding. Iconic examples include Evangelion's collaborations with Japanese companies to market everything from energy drinks to cars. In some cases, anime shows are produced specifically to advertise toys, as seen with Beyblade or Pokémon.

Moreover, anime-themed promotional events, collaborations with cafes or restaurants, and exclusive merchandise releases drive fan engagement, blurring the line between marketing and fandom culture. This clever synergy makes anime a cornerstone of Japan's pop-culture economy.

13. Anime Has a Secret Relationship with Video Games

Anime and video games share a deep, often secret, connection that influences both industries. Many anime series are directly inspired by or based on popular video games, such as Pokémon, Tales of Symphonia, or Persona 5, where the games were adapted into anime series to attract a broader audience and expand the storylines. Sometimes, it's the anime that inspires video games, with the success of anime like Sword Art Online or Attack on Titan leading to video game adaptations that allow fans to immerse themselves even more in the world of their favorite shows.

Interestingly, the reverse is also true. Some video game adaptations of anime have found even more success than the original anime, with Dragon Ball Z games and Naruto Shippuden: Ultimate Ninja Storm among the best-selling titles, often reaching audiences who might not have seen the shows themselves.

Moreover, the design of anime characters often heavily influences the aesthetic choices in video game art, where the exaggerated facial expressions and stylized movements seen in anime are mirrored in the world of gaming.

14. "Filler" Episodes Aren't Always Bad

Filler episodes often get a bad reputation, especially in long-running anime series like Naruto, Bleach, or One Piece, where they can make up a significant portion of the episodes. These episodes are typically not adapted from the original manga and are added to give the manga time to progress, but they’re often dismissed by fans as unnecessary or boring. However, filler episodes can serve multiple purposes beyond just filling time.

In some cases, fillers offer a chance to expand on the world-building, character development, or backstories that might not be fully explored in the main story. For example, in Naruto, certain filler arcs focus on side characters and give them more depth, adding richness to the overall universe. These episodes can also provide lighter, comedic moments or fun side stories that fans might enjoy, offering a break from the heavier drama of the main plot.

Additionally, fillers allow for more creative freedom for the animation team, as they can experiment with different narrative styles, animation techniques, or themes that might not fit into the canon story. While fillers may not always be critical to the main storyline, they can offer some unique moments and enrich the viewing experience for fans who appreciate the series in its entirety.

15. The Art of "Eyebrow-Arching"

In anime, subtle visual cues are often used to convey a wide range of emotions. One of the most iconic gestures is the "eyebrow-arch," which plays a significant role in showing everything from surprise to disdain, annoyance, or comedic exaggeration. When a character raises one or both of their eyebrows, it's a quick and effective way to express their inner thoughts or reactions without needing dialogue.

This technique is particularly prevalent in anime’s comedic timing or dramatic moments, where a character’s emotions may be over-exaggerated for comedic effect. For example, when a character is caught off guard by something unexpected, the arching of their eyebrows, combined with exaggerated eyes, can amplify the humor or surprise. On the other hand, when a character is disapproving or annoyed, the lowered eyebrow paired with a stern expression can convey their displeasure in a very clear and direct way.

This eyebrow-arching is a unique part of anime's visual language that allows for both subtlety and flair. It's one of those small details that anime creators use to enrich characters’ expressions, making their emotional states immediately understandable to the audience, even without words.

16. The Short Life of "Anime Piracy"

Anime piracy was once a huge issue for fans and creators alike, especially outside Japan. In the early days, getting access to anime outside of Japan was difficult, and many fans turned to piracy to watch shows. Fansubbers (amateur translators) would translate Japanese anime into English, often without permission from the creators, and distribute these fan-made subtitles alongside illegally copied videos.

However, with the rise of legal streaming platforms like Crunchyroll, Funimation, and Netflix, anime piracy has become less prevalent. These platforms now offer vast libraries of anime titles with subtitles or dubbing in multiple languages, often on the same day they air in Japan. Legal streaming has made it much easier for international audiences to access anime while supporting the creators and the industry, reducing the reliance on pirated content.

Moreover, the existence of these platforms has led to higher-quality translations, faster release schedules, and even the possibility of simulcasts—where anime episodes are released worldwide almost simultaneously with their Japanese airings. This shift toward legal platforms has helped curb piracy and also provided a more sustainable way for anime creators to profit from their work.

17. Some Anime Use Hand-Drawn Animation for Specific Scenes

Even though CGI (computer-generated imagery) has become a staple in modern animation due to its efficiency and ability to create complex visuals, many anime studios still use hand-drawn animation for specific scenes. This is particularly true for action sequences, emotional moments, or scenes where the intricate details of the characters' movements need to be conveyed more effectively. Hand-drawn animation allows for a higher level of artistry, fluidity, and depth that CGI sometimes struggles to replicate.

One of the most famous examples is Studio Ghibli's Spirited Away, where even some of the more fantastical scenes were crafted using traditional animation techniques. The hand-drawn elements add a sense of warmth and nostalgia that CGI cannot fully recreate.

Another example is in the action genre, where many anime series, such as Attack on Titan or Demon Slayer, feature some of the most breathtaking hand-drawn animation in their battle scenes. These sequences involve a high degree of detail and require animators to create dynamic, expressive movements that emphasize the intensity of the action. The result is a visually stunning experience that draws viewers deeper into the story.

This mix of techniques allows anime creators to maintain a balance between the efficiency of CGI and the emotional depth that hand-drawn animation can provide, making certain scenes stand out in ways that resonate deeply with audiences.

18. Anime Can Influence Fashion

Anime has long been a significant source of fashion inspiration, with certain styles and character designs making their way from the screen into real-world trends. The unique, often exaggerated, fashion choices seen in anime have caught the attention of designers, fashion enthusiasts, and even streetwear brands, leading to clothing lines and collaborations inspired by anime aesthetics.

For example, iconic anime characters like Sailor Moon, Naruto, and JoJo's Bizarre Adventure are known for their distinct and often elaborate outfits. The bold, vibrant, and sometimes eccentric designs have found their way into everyday fashion. Items such as t-shirts, hoodies, shoes, and accessories featuring anime characters or motifs are now common in street fashion, especially in places like Japan and the U.S., where anime fandom is prevalent.

One of the most famous collaborations is the partnership between Uniqlo and Dragon Ball Z, which brought out limited-edition t-shirts featuring classic characters and scenes. Similarly, high-end brands like Gucci and Louis Vuitton have tapped into anime's influence, releasing collections that subtly incorporate anime-inspired elements into their designs.

Anime's impact on fashion is also seen in cosplay, where fans dress up as their favorite characters, influencing trends within communities and beyond. The distinctive and often exaggerated nature of anime outfits has sparked a trend of bold fashion choices among fans and even casual viewers.

These crossovers show how anime doesn't just influence entertainment—it impacts the broader cultural landscape, extending into lifestyle and fashion.

19. The Role of the "Opening and Ending" Songs

In anime, the opening and ending songs (OP and ED) are far more than just catchy tunes to fill the credits—they can serve as a vital storytelling tool. These musical sequences often set the tone for the entire series and provide subtle hints about the plot or themes, building anticipation for what's to come or offering reflections on what's been.

The opening song is usually vibrant, energetic, and fast-paced, designed to capture viewers’ attention right away. It often features an animated sequence filled with action, key characters, and visual motifs that hint at the show's themes. The song can reflect the mood of the series—whether it's an intense battle scene or a peaceful, introspective moment. For example, the opening theme for Attack on Titan, "Guren no Yumiya" by Linked Horizon, perfectly captures the epic scale and urgency of the series, with sweeping visuals and powerful music to match.

On the other hand, the ending song is often slower and more subdued, offering a contrast to the opening. It may provide emotional closure or give a reflective tone to the episode. Some series even alter their ending songs slightly with each episode to align with the ongoing plot, making the closing sequence feel more connected to the story's emotional journey. A great example of this is Neon Genesis Evangelion, where the ending song "Komm, süßer Tod" (Come, Sweet Death) adds a haunting layer to the show’s deep existential themes.

The choice of song genre also plays a significant role in shaping the viewer's perception. For example, a rock song in the opening may suggest a high-energy, action-packed show, while a slower ballad in the ending might signal a more emotional, introspective journey.

For fans, the opening and ending songs become an iconic part of the anime experience, sometimes even becoming as beloved as the anime itself. Some songs have transcended their shows, becoming hits in their own right, with many artists seeing their careers boosted through anime collaborations.

20. The Mythical "Lost Episode" Phenomenon

Anime has its share of legends and rumors, and one of the most persistent is the idea of "lost episodes"—episodes that were supposedly banned, never aired, or mysteriously disappeared. These episodes are often shrouded in mystery, with fans speculating about their content, sometimes assuming they are too controversial, disturbing, or just too dark for public viewing.

For example, Neon Genesis Evangelion has long been surrounded by rumors of an elusive, secret episode. Although no such episode exists, fans speculated that there might have been hidden or canceled episodes due to the show's intense and often ambiguous nature.

Other series, like Pokémon, have had real-life incidents where episodes were pulled or altered before airing, such as the infamous Electric Soldier Porygon episode, which was blamed for triggering seizures in viewers due to its flashing visuals. This incident led to the episode being banned and sparking widespread rumors about other "lost" episodes of the show.

The Dragon Ball Z franchise also has its own collection of urban myths, particularly concerning episodes that supposedly featured much more violent content than what was eventually aired in certain regions.

While these "lost episodes" may not always be as mysterious or mythical as some fans believe, they add an air of intrigue to the world of anime. They are often seen as part of the cult following and lore surrounding a series, with fans constantly seeking out any trace of what may have been hidden or forgotten in the past.