Japanese folklore serves as an abundant and interesting premise which many manga and anime stories derive inspiration from. Whether it is from urban legends like yokai or religious messages and imagery, cultural influence has become a powerful tool to broaden the supernatural genre.

Intrinsic messages, the importance of natural elements, and the interesting crossover between the human and non-human world are seen in a wide array of shows. Many combine a variety of genres, such as action, romance, or horror, to create unique conflict and interpersonal relationships. Japanese mythology encourages rich visuals, impactful characters, and moving motifs for a subgenre that bridges one culture to the world.

10 Kakuriyo - Bed & Breakfast for Spirits

Based on the Light Novel Series written by Midori Yūma

A strong influence and draw for many supernatural slice-of-life and romance anime is yokai lore. Kakuriyo: Bed and Breakfast for Spirits details college student Aoi who inherited her late grandfather’s ability to see spirits. Due to an aforementioned debt, Aoi is stolen away by a god and master of a Heavenly Inn, stating that she must become his bride. Opposed to the idea, Aoi declares that she will work at the inn and repay the debt herself.

Mixing notes of romance, mystery, and serene day-to-day moments, this mystical drama combines beautiful Japanese tradition, mythology, and mouthwatering food. Although the first season’s exposition starts with shaky animation, promising conflict, secrets, and hidden backstories have been laced in. Perhaps attributed to its gaining popularity with Crunchyroll’s base, the anime has been renewed for a second season, much to the approval of shojo fans.

9 Noragami

Based on the Original Series Written and Illustrated by the Manga Artist Duo Adachitoka

Noragami is another shrine-maiden-mischevious-deity duo series that many shonen fans enjoy. Left with no money, prospects, or home, minor god Yato seems hopeless and luckless. After running into Hiyori Iki, a sweet high schooler, the two work together to solve each other's supernatural problems while darker forces begin to emerge from the shadows.

Much of Noragami is rooted in Shintoism, an ancient religion of Japan, Buddhism, and old myths. All of its traditions and superstitions are combined with moments of punchy action, charming humor, and surprisingly deep characters and plot. Although it talks about gods, the complexities they share, and how they overlap with the human world, the series takes a slower, goofy approach.

8 Natsume's Book of Friends

Based on the Original Series Written by Yuki Midorikawa

Natsume's Book of Friends is a series that perfectly encapsulates the bittersweetness and serenity of the Japanese countryside and its mythical beings. Main character Natsume has always been an outcast due to his ability to see yokai. After moving to his late grandmother’s hometown, befriending an imprisoned spirit, and acquiring the powerful ‘Book of Friends’, the teen boy embarks on a journey of reflection, connection, and overcoming his past.

This iyashikei anime epitomizes gentleness, forgiveness, and wistful impermanence. As watchers follow Natsume and his powerful ‘cat’ companion, they are clued into his darker childhood, the duality of yokai, and ultimately his decision to let others into his heart, whether human, spirit, or somewhere in between. Although taking a mostly episodic format, this coming-of-age story gradually depicts the growing closeness of a magical and non-magical found family in the blooming rural Kumamoto prefecture.

7 Inuyasha

Based on the Original Series Written by Rumiko Takahashi

Fans of folklore, historical drama will surely love Inuyasha. Following high schooler Kagome Higurashi, watchers see her stumble into feudal-era Japan where she encounters a half-demon named Inuyasha. Although their partnership starts as a means for mutual benefit and survival, their t journey to find the Shikon Jewel leads to gaining friendship, self-acceptance, and ultimately a love that spans over 500 years.

This early 2000s anime stands as a cornerstone of the supernatural genre. Its longer run time allows for gradual progression, realistic emotional and physical growth for all characters, and a reasonable romance that isn’t rushed for finality’s sake. Inuyasha is a fantastical adventure with compelling relationships, fun humor, ensnaring action and occultism, and a female lead who is a force to be reckoned with.

6 Demon Slayer

Based on the Original Series Written by Koyoharu Gotouge

Taking the world by storm since its release, Demon Slayer has amassed a strong following with its interesting premise, moving characters, and quality animation. Set in Taisho-era Japan, communities are plagued by fear instilled by ruthless demons who steal and eat human beings. Protagonist Tanjiro and his family are one of the many affected, and as his sister turns into a demon, the two fight to return to normalcy and defeat the monster that murdered his loved ones.

Many personas and concepts of Demon Slayer are derived from mythology, such as particular demon designs or the tools they use. Its plot is fast-paced yet simple to follow, as watchers meet idiosyncratic, strong humans and demons. Although not every season meets expectations for plot weight and profound conflict resolution, its later seasons and films promise to fulfill fans' wishes for shocking events, barbaric villains, and mystical settings.

5 Mononoke

A spin-off of horror anthology series Ayakashi: Samurai Horror Tales

Created as a spin-off of the Bakeneko story arc of Ayakashi: Japanese Classic Horror, Mononoke follows the Medicine Seller as he deals with various spirits in feudal Japan. Main character Kusuriuri attains vast supernatural knowledge and with it, he takes watchers on an experimental, bizarre, and introspective expedition.

If its unique yokai premise was not enough to draw an audience, its stunning animation style surely is. Sticking to its Japanese roots of inspiration, the illustrations themselves are done in a 2D ink painting style with vivid coloring, gorgeous movement, and chilling direction. This fantasy, psychological, horror mystery delves into the darkness of nature and explores morality in many ways. Combining spectacular, surreal theatricalism with episodic plot, Mononoke’s original run or sequel is sure to stun watchers for one reason or another.

4 Mushi-Shi

Based on the Original Series Written by Yuki Urushibara

Mushi-Shi is an episodic, serene take on the mysticism of old. Where it lacks flashy visuals and action, it shines through with softer meditation on life, spirits, nature, and their overlapping. Watchers follow shaman man Ginko who can see the spirits known as Mushi, and with each episode, are clued into the subtleties of their effects, their simple origins, and quiet ings.

This series heavily focuses on the natural environment and the human relationship with our surroundings, seen and unseen. It is cherished for its simplicity: finding a perfect balance between fantastical and peaceful. Mushi-Shi’s philosophy and unique yokai portrayal combine for a restorative and simultaneously sentimental depiction of human life.

3 Kamisama Kiss

Based on the Original Series Written by Julietta Suzuki

ired since its beginnings, Kamisama Kiss is a front-runner not only for the yokai subgenre but for the entire shojo umbrella as a whole. Highschooler Nanami Momozono is down on her luck but serendipitously finds refuge at a shrine. Unwittingly, she takes on the role of local deity, is thrown into the world of yokai, and must secure her place in the world next to her fox-spirit guardian Tomoe in a story of magic and fated love.

This supernatural romance powerhouse effortlessly combines comedy, fantasy, and Japanese lore with bubbly animation and sweet relationships. Although the anime is adored by many, its ending diverges from the original manga and is unfortunately cut short. Kamisama Kiss is undoubtedly due for a reboot that would give it the visual and story upgrade it deserves.

2 Dororo

Based on the Original Series Written by Osamu Tezuka

Dororo’s 1967 manga sets the stage for a historical revenge story entwined with mysticism, rigor, and vengeance. Hyakkimaru’s father had made a deal with 12 demons, promising them his son’s body parts in exchange for power. Missing limbs and abandoned in a river, the protagonist is saved, is trained in swordsmanship, and grows to expedite the Japanese countryside to slay the demons that stole from him. On his journey, the powerful ronin crosses paths with Dororo, a young orphan thief.

Interesting plot and action are its surface-level draws, but with continued attention, this anime surprises readers with its poignant exploration of defining humanity. The 2019 show adds more darkness and cruelty, emphasizing the characters' struggles and strength to overcome.

1 Spirited Away

Written and Directed by Hayao Miyazaki

Perhaps the most influential bridge to connect the world to Japanese culture and folklore, Spirited Away is a timeless, distinguished anime film that changed the animation industry forever. As main character Chihiro Ogino's family stumbles upon a deserted theme park, her world is turned upside down. She becomes stuck as the sole human in the spirit world, and with the help of Haku, Rin, and other spirit friends, she tries to return her family to normal while navigating the new magical place she’s never seen.

Spirited Away has introduced generations to Japanese storytelling. Its artistic influence is undeniable and has inspired many in both the East and West film and animation industries. This story of sacrifice, strength, and identity has been cemented in the hearts of all those who watch and will forever remain an impactful film that carries cultural importance and messaging.